Pfc. Joseph Klimchock was killed in Italy on Dec. 2, 1943.
Sgt. Harry Ward Jr. was MIA in the Philippines on Dec. 12, 1944.
Sgt. Patrick J. Hoey was killed in Germany on Dec. 14, 1944.
Sgt. John J. Miller, Jr. was KIA on Saipan in 1944.
Sgt. William H. Deighan was KIA over the English Channel Dec. 30, 1944.
Edgar H. Mc Ginty was KIA in Manila on Dec. 15, 1945
Thomas Lamb was KIA in the Pacific in 1945.
11.30.2007
11.20.2007
Local Boy Killed in War
(Nov. 30, 1967) -- Today at 9:30 a.m., a solemn high Mass will be held at St. Anthony's Church, for Marine Lance Corporal Jerry Richard Donatiello of Frederick Street.
He was killed Nov. 20 after sustaining a gunshot wound to the body from hostile rifle fire while on an operation in the vicinity of Quang Namn, Republic of Vietnam.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
He was killed Nov. 20 after sustaining a gunshot wound to the body from hostile rifle fire while on an operation in the vicinity of Quang Namn, Republic of Vietnam.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
11.11.2007
In the Marines
Pfc. Samuel C. Morales, son of Sonia E. Cruz of Rock Hill and Samuel Morales of Haledon, N.J., recently completed the Electro Optical Ordnance Maintenance Technician Course.
He is a 2005 graduate of Belleville High School in Belleville, N.J.
The Herald Nov. 10, 2007
He is a 2005 graduate of Belleville High School in Belleville, N.J.
The Herald Nov. 10, 2007
10.29.2007
Joseph Zecca
(Nov. 21, 1944) -- Pvt. Joseph Zecca, 19, of Fairway Avenue, was reported missing in action in Italy on Oct. 29. (The killed in action notice came Jan. 23.)
Zecca left in his senior year at Belleville High School and entered the Army in 1943.
He trained in Alabama.
Pvt. Zecca went overseas in March and was stationed in North Africa. He arrived in Italy in June.
He served with the 133rd Infantry.
Zecca left in his senior year at Belleville High School and entered the Army in 1943.
He trained in Alabama.
Pvt. Zecca went overseas in March and was stationed in North Africa. He arrived in Italy in June.
He served with the 133rd Infantry.
10.01.2007
October Casualties
Private George Eyre was killed in action on Oct. 19, 1918. He joined the Army from New Jersey. Pvt. Eyre served with the 312th Infantry Regiment, 78th Infantry Division. He is buried at Plot E, Row 08, Grave 12, at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, Romagne, France.
Private George Kalvio, 23, on Oct. 24, 1918
Private First Class William T. Smith was killed in action on Oct. 23, 1918. He joined the Army from New Jersey. Pfc. Smith served with the 312th Infantry Regiment, 78th Infantry Division. He is buried at Plot B, Row 20, Grave 37, at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, Romagne, France.
Sgt. Louis Wagner died after an accident in Georgia, on Oct. 2, 1942.
William Gaydos was killed in the Atlantic on Oct. 9, 1943.
Seaman Vincent F. Nucci was KIA Oct. 21, 1943.
2nd Lt. George Skeen died of wounds on Oct. 19, 1944.
Pvt. Giavanni Bocchino was killed in the South Pacific on Oct. 25, 1944.
Pvt. Joseph A. Masi was KIA in France on Oct. 25, 1944.
Pvt. Joseph Zecca was killed in Italy Oct. 29, 1944.
Capt. Louis Jannarone died in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 31, 1944.
Lt. (jg) Edward Joseph Zuczek was lost-at-sea in October 1958. The plane went down at sea off Guam. The lost plane was an AJ5P en route from Guam to Manila. Zuczek, 22, enlisted in the Navy in 1954 and took his flight training at Pensacola Naval Air Training Station, Fla. He was a pilot in a heavy photographic squadron.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Private George Kalvio, 23, on Oct. 24, 1918
Private First Class William T. Smith was killed in action on Oct. 23, 1918. He joined the Army from New Jersey. Pfc. Smith served with the 312th Infantry Regiment, 78th Infantry Division. He is buried at Plot B, Row 20, Grave 37, at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, Romagne, France.
Sgt. Louis Wagner died after an accident in Georgia, on Oct. 2, 1942.
William Gaydos was killed in the Atlantic on Oct. 9, 1943.
Seaman Vincent F. Nucci was KIA Oct. 21, 1943.
2nd Lt. George Skeen died of wounds on Oct. 19, 1944.
Pvt. Giavanni Bocchino was killed in the South Pacific on Oct. 25, 1944.
Pvt. Joseph A. Masi was KIA in France on Oct. 25, 1944.
Pvt. Joseph Zecca was killed in Italy Oct. 29, 1944.
Capt. Louis Jannarone died in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 31, 1944.
Lt. (jg) Edward Joseph Zuczek was lost-at-sea in October 1958. The plane went down at sea off Guam. The lost plane was an AJ5P en route from Guam to Manila. Zuczek, 22, enlisted in the Navy in 1954 and took his flight training at Pensacola Naval Air Training Station, Fla. He was a pilot in a heavy photographic squadron.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
9.30.2007
September Skirmish Anniversary
Read the storyThe battle of Second River, fought in September 1777 in what is now Belleville, N.J.
Story courtesy The Belleville Times.
Skirmish of Second River
In September of 1777 there was an engagement which is most frequently referred to as the “Battle of Second River”. It is for this engagement that a memorial plaque has been erected in the park. The British intended to expand their invasion with a larger force in central Jersey. But first, they had to pass through Second River and beneath the old church tower.
Eyes in the tower saw the advance and sounded the alarm. Under the direction of Captains Hornblower, Joralemon, Rutgers and Rutan, a defense was prepared. Skirmishes went on for two days. It began with an artillery barrage of our town followed by musket and cannon battles in the streets.
Sending for reinforcements, the American troops valiantly held their ground and managed to damage British General. Sir Henry Clinton’s hilltop headquarters with a direct hit from a cannonball, which happened to be on what is now Franklin Ave. September 14th turned into an all-day pitched battle.
With patriot reinforcements pouring in from neighboring communities, front lines eventually took shape near to Mill Street and Union Avenue. The British forces, overwhelming in numbers, eventually broke through. But once again, the local militia had succeeded in delaying the advance and weakening the invading army.
A large boulder also rests at the fork in the road between Union and Franklin Avenues on Mill Street as a landmark to mark the spot where the final shots of the Battle of the Second River were fired. A bronze plaque was placed on the rock in 1932
Sources: Norman Price, Village of Second River author; Michael Perrone, Dave Hinrichs, The Belleville Times.
9.28.2007
Benjamin Lucas
(October 25, 1945) -- Cpl. Benjamin Lucas, 23, was killed in a plane crash in China on Sept. 28.
Lucas, son of Mrs. Louise Lucas of Newark Place, was on his way home when the plane was destroyed in a crash.
Cpl. Lucas had completed two years in the Far East, most recently stationed at the headquarters of Chinese Combat Command.
He enlisted in the Army in March 1942.
Cpl. Lucas was first stationed in India. He went through the reopening of the Burma Road and was with the Mars Task Force.
The young man had three battle stars, and had been shot by Jap snipers in the past.
Among his survivors are his brother Pfc. Andrew Lucas who was in Europe. The two brothers exchanged 500 letters while separated.
Lucas, son of Mrs. Louise Lucas of Newark Place, was on his way home when the plane was destroyed in a crash.
Cpl. Lucas had completed two years in the Far East, most recently stationed at the headquarters of Chinese Combat Command.
He enlisted in the Army in March 1942.
Cpl. Lucas was first stationed in India. He went through the reopening of the Burma Road and was with the Mars Task Force.
The young man had three battle stars, and had been shot by Jap snipers in the past.
Among his survivors are his brother Pfc. Andrew Lucas who was in Europe. The two brothers exchanged 500 letters while separated.
9.26.2007
Charles Mc Ginty
Private Charles Mc Ginty was killed in action on Sept. 29, 1918. He joined the Army from New Jersey. Pvt. Mc Ginty served with the 147th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division. He is listed as Missing in Action or Buried at Sea on the Tablets of the Missing at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, Romagne, France.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
9.23.2007
William J. Salmon
( Oct. 26, 1944) -- Marine Corp. William J. Salmon, 21, of Dewitt Avenue, was killed in action Sept. 23, on Peleleiu on Palau Islands in the South Pacific.
Cpl. Salmon was a sniper-scout on the Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester and New Guinea campaigns.
He left Belleville High School in his junior year to join the CCC.
While overseas, he met his brother on Guadalcanal in December 1941. The brothers both enlisted one week after Pearl Harbor was attacked.
The Palue Islands in what is now the Republic of Palau, are in the westernmost cluster of the Caroline Islands, north of Australia and west of Micronesia.
Cpl. Salmon was a sniper-scout on the Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester and New Guinea campaigns.
He left Belleville High School in his junior year to join the CCC.
While overseas, he met his brother on Guadalcanal in December 1941. The brothers both enlisted one week after Pearl Harbor was attacked.
The Palue Islands in what is now the Republic of Palau, are in the westernmost cluster of the Caroline Islands, north of Australia and west of Micronesia.
9.22.2007
Leonard R. Willette
(Jan. 18, 1945) -- Flight Officer Leonard R. Willette, 22, was declared killed in action this week.
Willette, service number O1692873, had been listed as missing in action since Sept. 22.
He is the son of Newark Police Lt. and Mrs. Lawrence Willette, of Stephens Street.
The young man enlisted in the Army Air Corps while a student at New York University. He entered the service from New Jersey.
He refused an appointment by the late Senator Barbour to West Point in order to get into active combat more quickly.
Willette received his wings in February 1944, at Tuskegee Army Air Field, Ala.
He was a P-51 Mustang pilot based in Italy with the famed 99th Fighter Squadron, 322nd Fighter Group, under command of Col. Benjamin O. Davis.
2nd Lt. Willette, was awarded the Air Medal with oak leaf cluster, and the Purple Heart, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, WWII Victory Medal, WWII Lapel Button.
He is also survived by a brother Pvt. Lawrence Willette Jr. at Tinker Field, Okla.
He is memorialized at: Plot J, Row 18, Grave 17, at the Lorraine American Cemetery, St. Avold, France.
Willette, service number O1692873, had been listed as missing in action since Sept. 22.
He is the son of Newark Police Lt. and Mrs. Lawrence Willette, of Stephens Street.
The young man enlisted in the Army Air Corps while a student at New York University. He entered the service from New Jersey.
He refused an appointment by the late Senator Barbour to West Point in order to get into active combat more quickly.
Willette received his wings in February 1944, at Tuskegee Army Air Field, Ala.
He was a P-51 Mustang pilot based in Italy with the famed 99th Fighter Squadron, 322nd Fighter Group, under command of Col. Benjamin O. Davis.
2nd Lt. Willette, was awarded the Air Medal with oak leaf cluster, and the Purple Heart, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, WWII Victory Medal, WWII Lapel Button.
He is also survived by a brother Pvt. Lawrence Willette Jr. at Tinker Field, Okla.
He is memorialized at: Plot J, Row 18, Grave 17, at the Lorraine American Cemetery, St. Avold, France.
9.18.2007
John F. Verian
(Oct. 12, 1944) -- Sgt. John F. Verian, 22, of Washington Avenue, was killed in action in the midst of the Siegried Line in Germany.
Sgt. Verian landed in Oran, North Africa on Christmas Day 1942, six months after he entered the Army.
He was wounded in Tunisia while serving in the First Division.
Sgt. Verian was also wounded in the invasion of Sicily on July 10.
In January 1944 he went to England and was training the Yanks for five months in invasion tactics.
He landed in Normandy on D-Day.
Sgt. Verian joined the Army 25 years to the day after his father joined for World War I.
Sgt. Verian landed in Oran, North Africa on Christmas Day 1942, six months after he entered the Army.
He was wounded in Tunisia while serving in the First Division.
Sgt. Verian was also wounded in the invasion of Sicily on July 10.
In January 1944 he went to England and was training the Yanks for five months in invasion tactics.
He landed in Normandy on D-Day.
Sgt. Verian joined the Army 25 years to the day after his father joined for World War I.
9.15.2007
William J. Mears
(November 30, 1944) -- Marine Sgt. William J. Mears, of Jefferson Street, was killed in action in Peleliu on Palau Islands in the South Pacific on Sept. 15.
Mears enlisted in the Marines the day after Pearl Harbor was attacked.
During his tour he was cited as a demolitions expert. He was a veteran of Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester, New Britain and Bougainville during his 28 months overseas.
He was scheduled to return to the States to begin study at officer candidate school.
The Palue Islands in what is now the Republic of Palau, are in the westernmost cluster of the Caroline Islands, north of Australia and west of Micronesia.
Mears enlisted in the Marines the day after Pearl Harbor was attacked.
During his tour he was cited as a demolitions expert. He was a veteran of Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester, New Britain and Bougainville during his 28 months overseas.
He was scheduled to return to the States to begin study at officer candidate school.
The Palue Islands in what is now the Republic of Palau, are in the westernmost cluster of the Caroline Islands, north of Australia and west of Micronesia.
9.14.2007
Glenn C. Nelson
(Nov. 30, 1944) -- Ship's cook 3/c Glenn C. Nelson, 21, missing since his ship-destroyer Warrington went down off the Virginia coast Sept. 12 in what was to be known as the Great Atlantic Hurricane of Sept. 14, 1944.
Nelson enlisted in the Navy in August 1941.
His wife Anna lives on Washington Avenue.
Nelson enlisted in the Navy in August 1941.
His wife Anna lives on Washington Avenue.
9.11.2007
William Russell White
(Oct. 5, 1944) -- Quartermaster 3/c William Russell White, 30, the son of Mrs. Caroline E. White of Holmes Street, was presumed to be dead by the Navy.
White had not been heard from since his destroyer the USS Rowan was blown up off the beaches of Salerno, Italy, on Sept. 11, 1943.
White enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve on Nov. 2, 1942. His service number is 07087795. He was called to active duty the following May.
He was awarded the Purple Heart.
He is listed among the Missing in Action or Buried at Sea Tablets of the Missing at Sicily-Rome American Cemetery, Nettuno, Italy .
White had not been heard from since his destroyer the USS Rowan was blown up off the beaches of Salerno, Italy, on Sept. 11, 1943.
White enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve on Nov. 2, 1942. His service number is 07087795. He was called to active duty the following May.
He was awarded the Purple Heart.
He is listed among the Missing in Action or Buried at Sea Tablets of the Missing at Sicily-Rome American Cemetery, Nettuno, Italy .
Thomas A. Peacock
(Oct. 14/Nov.18, 1943) -- Seaman 2/c Thomas A. Peacock, 20, was killed in action and buried at sea in the area of Malta, in the invasion of Sicily on Sept. 11.
Peacock was believed to be aboard the USS Savannah in the Mediterranean when it was attacked by Nazi dive bombers.
A small memorial ceremony was held on Armistice Day (November 1943) in the Soho section of Belleville incorporating the Town's Honor Roll.
Peacock is believed to be buried at sea off the island of Malta.
He is listed among the Missing in Action or Buried at Sea Tablets of the Missing at Sicily-Rome American Cemetery at Nettuno, Italy.
His letters home do not reveal much. He left for North Africa in April. Another letter said he's part of the invasion of Sicily.
Seaman Peacock received a service bar for action in the South Pacific last winter.
The young Peacock, the son of Mr. & Mrs. William E. Peacock of Harrison Street, left Belleville High School in his junior year to enlist in the Navy in October 1942.
Peacock was believed to be aboard the USS Savannah in the Mediterranean when it was attacked by Nazi dive bombers.
A small memorial ceremony was held on Armistice Day (November 1943) in the Soho section of Belleville incorporating the Town's Honor Roll.
Peacock is believed to be buried at sea off the island of Malta.
He is listed among the Missing in Action or Buried at Sea Tablets of the Missing at Sicily-Rome American Cemetery at Nettuno, Italy.
His letters home do not reveal much. He left for North Africa in April. Another letter said he's part of the invasion of Sicily.
Seaman Peacock received a service bar for action in the South Pacific last winter.
The young Peacock, the son of Mr. & Mrs. William E. Peacock of Harrison Street, left Belleville High School in his junior year to enlist in the Navy in October 1942.
9.10.2007
Frank H. Metzler
(Oct. 4, 1945) -- Sgt. Frank H. Metzler, 21, was presumed dead on Sept. 10, the War Dept. notified his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Metzler of Reservoir Place.
Sgt. Metzler, a tail gunner on a Flying Fortress, had been overseas five weeks before being reported missing in Germany since March 8, 1944.
He is survived by his brother Pfc. Charles Metzler of the 1st Army who returned after 13 months in the infantry in Europe.
Sgt. Metzler, a tail gunner on a Flying Fortress, had been overseas five weeks before being reported missing in Germany since March 8, 1944.
He is survived by his brother Pfc. Charles Metzler of the 1st Army who returned after 13 months in the infantry in Europe.
9.05.2007
John F. Kirwin
(Sept. 28, 1944) -- Ordnanceman 3/c John F. Kirwin of Forest Street was killed in the South Pacific when his patrol plane (PBM) crashed at sea on Sept. 5.
"Jack" Kirwin was 19 when he enlisted in the Navy in February 1943. He didn't finish high school, he went as a senior to boot training at Sampson.
Kirwin received his specialized training in Tennessee, Florida and California before going overseas in July 1944.
"Jack" Kirwin was 19 when he enlisted in the Navy in February 1943. He didn't finish high school, he went as a senior to boot training at Sampson.
Kirwin received his specialized training in Tennessee, Florida and California before going overseas in July 1944.
8.31.2007
September Casualties, Belleville Sons
Private Charles Mc Ginty was killed in action on Sept. 29, 1918.
Private First Class Thomas J. Mooney was killed in action on Sept. 27, 1918.
Cpl. Benjamin Lucas, 23, was killed in a plane crash in China on Sept. 28, 1945.
Marine Corp. William J. Salmon, 21, was killed in action Sept. 23, 1944, on Peleleiu on Palau Islands in the South Pacific.
Tuskeegee Airman Flight Officer Leonard R. Willette, 22, was declared killed in action. He had been listed as missing in action since Sept. 22, 1944.
Sgt. John F. Verian, 22, of Washington Avenue, was killed in action in the midst of the Siegried Line in Germany.
Marine Sgt. William J. Mears, of Jefferson Street, was killed in action in Peleliu on Palau Islands in the South Pacific on Sept. 15, 1944.
Glenn C. Nelson, 21, missing since his ship-destroyer Warrington went down off the Virginia coast Sept. 12 in what was to be known as the Great Atlantic Hurricane of Sept. 14, 1944.
Quartermaster 3/c William Russell White, 30, was presumed to be dead by the Navy. White had not been heard from since his destroyer the USS Rowan was blown up off the beaches of Salerno, Italy, on Sept. 11, 1943.
Seaman 2/c Thomas A. Peacock, 20, was killed in action and buried at sea in the area of Malta, in the invasion of Sicily on Sept. 11, 1943.
Sgt. Frank H. Metzler, 21, was presumed dead. Sgt. Metzler, a tail gunner on a Flying Fortress, had been overseas five weeks before being reported missing in Germany since March 8, 1944.
Sgt. Arthur H. Lundgren, of Smith Street, died at Fort Dix, in September 1942.
Ordnanceman 3/c John F. Kirwin was killed in the South Pacific when his patrol plane crashed at sea on Sept. 5, 1944.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Private First Class Thomas J. Mooney was killed in action on Sept. 27, 1918.
Cpl. Benjamin Lucas, 23, was killed in a plane crash in China on Sept. 28, 1945.
Marine Corp. William J. Salmon, 21, was killed in action Sept. 23, 1944, on Peleleiu on Palau Islands in the South Pacific.
Tuskeegee Airman Flight Officer Leonard R. Willette, 22, was declared killed in action. He had been listed as missing in action since Sept. 22, 1944.
Sgt. John F. Verian, 22, of Washington Avenue, was killed in action in the midst of the Siegried Line in Germany.
Marine Sgt. William J. Mears, of Jefferson Street, was killed in action in Peleliu on Palau Islands in the South Pacific on Sept. 15, 1944.
Glenn C. Nelson, 21, missing since his ship-destroyer Warrington went down off the Virginia coast Sept. 12 in what was to be known as the Great Atlantic Hurricane of Sept. 14, 1944.
Quartermaster 3/c William Russell White, 30, was presumed to be dead by the Navy. White had not been heard from since his destroyer the USS Rowan was blown up off the beaches of Salerno, Italy, on Sept. 11, 1943.
Seaman 2/c Thomas A. Peacock, 20, was killed in action and buried at sea in the area of Malta, in the invasion of Sicily on Sept. 11, 1943.
Sgt. Frank H. Metzler, 21, was presumed dead. Sgt. Metzler, a tail gunner on a Flying Fortress, had been overseas five weeks before being reported missing in Germany since March 8, 1944.
Sgt. Arthur H. Lundgren, of Smith Street, died at Fort Dix, in September 1942.
Ordnanceman 3/c John F. Kirwin was killed in the South Pacific when his patrol plane crashed at sea on Sept. 5, 1944.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
7.31.2007
August Casualties - Belleville Sons
Private Edward Crowell Jr. died of wounds in Brest, August 4, 1919.
Seaman 2/ John Johnson died in the South Pacific on Aug. 4, 1945.
Wallace Reed was KIA in France on Aug. 6, 1944.
Pfc. Albert E. Pole was killed in Guam Aug. 7, 1944
Seaman 2/c Gerald Strigari died in Brooklyn on Aug. 10, 1944.
Robert Stecker was KIA in France in August 15, 1944.
James T. White was KIA in Italy in Aug. 16, 1944.
Donald Hartley, 20, was killed in the North Atlantic on Aug. 18, 1943.
Robert C. Taylor was killed near Bermuda on Aug. 20, 1944.
Fred R. Wyckoff was killed in action in Tunisia on August 1943.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Seaman 2/ John Johnson died in the South Pacific on Aug. 4, 1945.
Wallace Reed was KIA in France on Aug. 6, 1944.
Pfc. Albert E. Pole was killed in Guam Aug. 7, 1944
Seaman 2/c Gerald Strigari died in Brooklyn on Aug. 10, 1944.
Robert Stecker was KIA in France in August 15, 1944.
James T. White was KIA in Italy in Aug. 16, 1944.
Donald Hartley, 20, was killed in the North Atlantic on Aug. 18, 1943.
Robert C. Taylor was killed near Bermuda on Aug. 20, 1944.
Fred R. Wyckoff was killed in action in Tunisia on August 1943.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
7.23.2007
Lt. Chewey Dies At Philippines Army Base
(Aug. 16, 1945) -- Lt. Kenneth Chewey died in the Philippines after a few days of illness on July 23.
Lt. Chewey received two battle stars for action in the Leyte and Luzon campaigns.
He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Chewey of Malone Avenue.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
Lt. Chewey received two battle stars for action in the Leyte and Luzon campaigns.
He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Chewey of Malone Avenue.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
Clatie Cunningham Jr. Killed In Low Bomber Run
S. Sgt. Clatie R. Cunningham, Jr. was killed on a mission over the Mekong River in Vietnam, on July 23, 1945, when the B-24 in which he was the flight engineer crashed after a bombing run scored a direct hit on an enemy barge.
The explosion of the barge was so bad that the B-24 was damaged. The pilot then headed to a point assigned to a life-guard submarine.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
The explosion of the barge was so bad that the B-24 was damaged. The pilot then headed to a point assigned to a life-guard submarine.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
7.18.2007
First Lt. Wilfred Dallas Potis
In Memoriam
POTIS
First Lt. Wilfred Dallas Potis of Belleville, who was born July 18, 1917, died April 26, 1945, while serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II.
He was a pilot of a B24 stationed in England. This would have been his 90th birthday.
It has been 62 years since he passed away, but he will never be forgotten.
Happy Birthday in Heaven, my love.
DOTTIE
Published in The Star Ledger on 07/18/2007
Happy Birthday in Heaven, my love.
DOTTIE
Published in The Star Ledger on 07/18/2007
7.04.2007
Jack Daley, Lee White, Angelo Guarino Killed
(Aug. 10, 1944) -- Lt. John J. Daly Jr., was killed in action in Normandy on July 4.
Lt. Daly commanded a paratroop company.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
Lt. Daly commanded a paratroop company.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
Belleville Boy Dies In War
(July 16-21, 1970) -- Pfc. Carl Lawrence Mickens, 26, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl D. Mickens of Wilbur Street, was killed in action on July 4 in Vietnam.
Private Mickens, lost his life in a booby trap explosion while he was on a military mission, according to a telegram received by his parents.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
Private Mickens, lost his life in a booby trap explosion while he was on a military mission, according to a telegram received by his parents.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
7.01.2007
HENRY BENSON - CIVIL WAR CASUALTY
Captain Henry Benson of Belleville, N.J., died in 1862 at Malvern Hill, Va.
July 1, 1862, was the sixth and last of the Seven Days’ Battles. On that day, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee launched a series of disjointed assaults on the nearly impregnable Union position on Malvern Hill.
Capt. Benson is buried in the Dutch Reformed Church Cemetery, Belleville.
Sources: American Civil War.com; Belleville: 150th-Anniversary Historical Highlights 1839-1989 by Robert B. Burnett and the Belleville 150th-Anniversary Committee Belleville, New Jersey. 1991
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
6.30.2007
July Casualties - Belleville Sons
Cpl. Gerald Fuselle, 24, died in North Africa on July 10, 1943.
Pfc. Steveno Mosco, 20, was KIA in Normandy July 27, 1944.
2nd Lt. Victor R. Bruegman was killed over Hungary on July 2, 1944.
Lt. John J. Daly was KIA in Normandy on July 4, 1944.
Pfc. Angelo Guarino, 25, was KIA in France on July 18, 1944.
John Marshall was killed in Italy on July 8, 1945.
Lt. Kenneth Chewey died in Manila, the Philippines, on July 23, 1945.
Sgt. Clatie Cunningham was killed in the South Pacific on July 23, 1945.
Private Hyland was a member of the 11th Field Artillery Battalion, 24th Infantry Division. He was Killed in Action while fighting the enemy along the Kum River, South Korea on July 20, 1950.
Pfc. Carl Lawrence Mickens, 26, was killed in action on July 4 in Vietnam.
(July 31, 1958) Staff Sgt. Charles A. Marsh, 45, of Belleville, a former Nutley resident, who died last Wednesday of injuries suffered two days earlier in a highway accident in Burlington.
Captain Henry Benson died in 1862 at Malvern Hill, Va.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Pfc. Steveno Mosco, 20, was KIA in Normandy July 27, 1944.
2nd Lt. Victor R. Bruegman was killed over Hungary on July 2, 1944.
Lt. John J. Daly was KIA in Normandy on July 4, 1944.
Pfc. Angelo Guarino, 25, was KIA in France on July 18, 1944.
John Marshall was killed in Italy on July 8, 1945.
Lt. Kenneth Chewey died in Manila, the Philippines, on July 23, 1945.
Sgt. Clatie Cunningham was killed in the South Pacific on July 23, 1945.
Private Hyland was a member of the 11th Field Artillery Battalion, 24th Infantry Division. He was Killed in Action while fighting the enemy along the Kum River, South Korea on July 20, 1950.
Pfc. Carl Lawrence Mickens, 26, was killed in action on July 4 in Vietnam.
(July 31, 1958) Staff Sgt. Charles A. Marsh, 45, of Belleville, a former Nutley resident, who died last Wednesday of injuries suffered two days earlier in a highway accident in Burlington.
Captain Henry Benson died in 1862 at Malvern Hill, Va.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
6.27.2007
Raymond De Luca Slain In Vietnam
(July 11, 1968) -- Army Spec. 4 Raymond P. De Luca, of Meacham Street, died June 27 as a result of wounds in a firefight in Vietnam. The date and location of the action were not disclosed.
A lifelong resident of Belleville, De Luca attended Essex Catholic High School, Newark, where he graduated as an honor student in 1966.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
A lifelong resident of Belleville, De Luca attended Essex Catholic High School, Newark, where he graduated as an honor student in 1966.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
6.21.2007
AT DEATH HE WAS 25 YEARS OLD
In life there are no coincidences.
At a business meeting earlier this month, I met Christopher C. Stout.
In room of more than 80 people, Stout and I sat next to each other.
Stout was to receive an award for Series Writing and Reporting for his work at the Ridgewood News‚ "The Hero Next Door." This series profiled the families of those serving overseas.
Sitting there, chatting, I learned that, earlier, Stout had written a series of articles on the men and women from Ridgewood, N.J., who died while in service.
I expressed my surprise that of all the people he sat next to, he sat next to me.
The compilation of that series and research resulted in his book, AT DEATH HE WAS 25 YEARS OLD, published by King of Spain Press.
His motives for writing the series were similar to the process to mine in compiling the Nutley Sons and Belleville Sons honor rolls. Stout, too, had looked at a war memorial in town and something inside told him to learn the stories behind the names.
Until we struck up a conversation I had only known of one other person, from New Jersey, also, who had done something like this. Robert Caruso's effort resulted in Verona Heroes
As these stories go, Caruso was researching the war dead from Verona and while researching Thurston Woodward who was killed in World War II came across my web site for the sailor whose family later moved to Verona.
Stout and I had a similar conversation that Saturday morning. We spoke of some men who were killed in the war and memorialized in more than one town.
It turned out that Thomas E. Ashton Jr. grew up in Nutley and his family moved to Ridgewood.
The young man's story was in the Nutley Sons Honor Roll and in Stout's book.
Another coincidence turned up concerning the Dec. 24, 1944, torpedoing of the Leopoldville. Nutley's Malcolm Christopher was on the the ship. Also aboard was Ridgewood's Thomas A. Cobb.
Sometimes I find that my sense of loss over the strangers that turn up in my books and these similarly-themed books is overwhelming. I swear to God I don't ever again want to write about the war dead.
And yet. As Stout and I compared notes he mentioned some sources I hadn't tapped. Some sources that might uncover the stories of my guys whose stories have yet to be told.
And I wondered when I might cross check our references and get on with this work, this work that comes from a deep, deep part of the heart.
Order AT DEATH HE WAS 25 YEARS OLD, ISBN 1583968490 Available through King of Spain Press, P.O. Box 221, Hohokus, NJ 07423. $20 for the book plus $2.50 s&h.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
At a business meeting earlier this month, I met Christopher C. Stout.
In room of more than 80 people, Stout and I sat next to each other.
Stout was to receive an award for Series Writing and Reporting for his work at the Ridgewood News‚ "The Hero Next Door." This series profiled the families of those serving overseas.
Sitting there, chatting, I learned that, earlier, Stout had written a series of articles on the men and women from Ridgewood, N.J., who died while in service.
I expressed my surprise that of all the people he sat next to, he sat next to me.
The compilation of that series and research resulted in his book, AT DEATH HE WAS 25 YEARS OLD, published by King of Spain Press.
His motives for writing the series were similar to the process to mine in compiling the Nutley Sons and Belleville Sons honor rolls. Stout, too, had looked at a war memorial in town and something inside told him to learn the stories behind the names.
Until we struck up a conversation I had only known of one other person, from New Jersey, also, who had done something like this. Robert Caruso's effort resulted in Verona Heroes
As these stories go, Caruso was researching the war dead from Verona and while researching Thurston Woodward who was killed in World War II came across my web site for the sailor whose family later moved to Verona.
Stout and I had a similar conversation that Saturday morning. We spoke of some men who were killed in the war and memorialized in more than one town.
It turned out that Thomas E. Ashton Jr. grew up in Nutley and his family moved to Ridgewood.
The young man's story was in the Nutley Sons Honor Roll and in Stout's book.
Another coincidence turned up concerning the Dec. 24, 1944, torpedoing of the Leopoldville. Nutley's Malcolm Christopher was on the the ship. Also aboard was Ridgewood's Thomas A. Cobb.
Sometimes I find that my sense of loss over the strangers that turn up in my books and these similarly-themed books is overwhelming. I swear to God I don't ever again want to write about the war dead.
And yet. As Stout and I compared notes he mentioned some sources I hadn't tapped. Some sources that might uncover the stories of my guys whose stories have yet to be told.
And I wondered when I might cross check our references and get on with this work, this work that comes from a deep, deep part of the heart.
Order AT DEATH HE WAS 25 YEARS OLD, ISBN 1583968490 Available through King of Spain Press, P.O. Box 221, Hohokus, NJ 07423. $20 for the book plus $2.50 s&h.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
6.20.2007
THOMAS STEVENS - CIVIL WAR CASUALTY
Thomas Stevens was killed June 27, 1862.
Color Sergeant Thomas J. Stephens (Stevens) was killed June 27, 1862. A member of the First New Jersey Brigade, he served under 1st Lt. W. E. Blewett in the Second Regiment.
“Friday, June 27th, 1862, the First New Jersey Brigade was ordered to Woodbury’s Bridge over the Chickohominy, there to meet Gen. Porter’s Division. ... Col. Tucker led out the remaining four companies, including Lt. Blewett’s command with the rest of the Brigade.
From Woodbury’s Bridge this Brigade, with others, was sent to engage the enemy near Gaines’s Mills and was soon in the thick of the fight. Porter’s Division, in hand-to-hand conflict, held their position against overwhelming odds until reinforcements, long delayed, arrived, but owing to the fact that their position was unfavorable and to the superiority of the enemy in numbers, the Union troops were compelled to retire. ... The Second Regiment had the right of line, and though outnumbered and flanked by the enemy, they were the last to leave their station in the field.
In this fight the regiment lost its colonel, Isaac M. Tucker, Capt. Charles Danforth, Color Sergeant Thomas Stevens of Belleville, and many others. ...”
Source: C.C. Hine And His Times, Woodside, Pages 244 and 245 (Belleville Public Library); FIRST NEW JERSEY BRIGADE, Page 443 (aka Stephens)
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
Color Sergeant Thomas J. Stephens (Stevens) was killed June 27, 1862. A member of the First New Jersey Brigade, he served under 1st Lt. W. E. Blewett in the Second Regiment.
“Friday, June 27th, 1862, the First New Jersey Brigade was ordered to Woodbury’s Bridge over the Chickohominy, there to meet Gen. Porter’s Division. ... Col. Tucker led out the remaining four companies, including Lt. Blewett’s command with the rest of the Brigade.
From Woodbury’s Bridge this Brigade, with others, was sent to engage the enemy near Gaines’s Mills and was soon in the thick of the fight. Porter’s Division, in hand-to-hand conflict, held their position against overwhelming odds until reinforcements, long delayed, arrived, but owing to the fact that their position was unfavorable and to the superiority of the enemy in numbers, the Union troops were compelled to retire. ... The Second Regiment had the right of line, and though outnumbered and flanked by the enemy, they were the last to leave their station in the field.
In this fight the regiment lost its colonel, Isaac M. Tucker, Capt. Charles Danforth, Color Sergeant Thomas Stevens of Belleville, and many others. ...”
Source: C.C. Hine And His Times, Woodside, Pages 244 and 245 (Belleville Public Library); FIRST NEW JERSEY BRIGADE, Page 443 (aka Stephens)
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
6.15.2007
New Pipe Organ To Be Dedicated Sunday
(Nov. 15, 1945) – A new pipe organ will be dedicated on Sunday in honor of 53 members of the Silver Lake Baptist Church who are serving in the Armed Forces and in memory of Sgt. Edward DiCarlo who was killed in action in Guam.
DiCarlo, who entered the service in 1942, saw action in the South Pacific and died June 26.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
DiCarlo, who entered the service in 1942, saw action in the South Pacific and died June 26.
Continue reading
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Photos and content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission. Carnival
Support this web site, shop at Amazon through this link, thanks
6.06.2007
Lieuts. Doell, Ostrowski Die In English Skies On D-Day
(June 22, 1944) -- 2nd. Lt. Herman M. Doell, of 169 Linden Avenue, a B-24 pilot was killed in action over England on D-Day, June 6.
Doell entered the Army in 1941 and rose to become a sergeant in the infantry. He transferred to the Army Air Corps a year and a half later.
2nd Lt. Doell, serial no. O-687561, served with the 7th Bomber Squadron, 34th Bomber Group, Heavy.
Continue reading
Doell entered the Army in 1941 and rose to become a sergeant in the infantry. He transferred to the Army Air Corps a year and a half later.
2nd Lt. Doell, serial no. O-687561, served with the 7th Bomber Squadron, 34th Bomber Group, Heavy.
Continue reading
Capt. Branch Killed In Copter Crash In Vietnam
Capt. William A. Branch, 28, was killed in South Vietnam on June 6, 1970, when his helicopter was brought down by enemy fire.
Continue reading
A daughter's tribute
Continue reading
A daughter's tribute
6.04.2007
WM. E. BLEWETT - WOUNDED IN CIVIL WAR
Born in New York City, William E. Blewett came to Belleville at an early age.
In the spring of 1861, just after the Civil War broke out, he organized a company of volunteer troops for service in the Union Army.
The 101-man company, comprised mostly of Belleville men, arrived in Washington, D.C., in May.
Blewett’s company, part of the First New Jersey Brigade, helped to cover the retreat of the Union Army after the first battle of Bull Run in Virginia two months later.
A second lieutenant in 1861, Blewett was made a first lieutenant by order of General Philip Kearny (for whom the town across the Passaic River is named) in 1862.
At the Battle of Gaines’ Mill in June 1862, the Union troops sustained losses of nearly 6,000 killed and wounded at the hands of the Confederate Army; one of the dead was Color Sergeant Thomas Stevens of Belleville.
Blewett was shot in the chest but the bullet traveled down and lodged in his side. While returning to the rear for medical treatment, an exploding shell blew off his belt.
Blewett came home to Belleville on the Fourth of July. The fact that the bullet could not be located and removed prevented him from returning to active service.
Blewett served in the New Jersey National Guard and rose through the ranks to become a captain, major, and lieutenant colonel before resigning in 1874.
A jeweler by trade, William E. Blewett died in 1913.
Sources: American Civil War.com; Belleville: 150th-Anniversary Historical Highlights 1839-1989 by Robert B. Burnett and the Belleville 150th-Anniversary Committee Belleville, New Jersey. 1991
In the spring of 1861, just after the Civil War broke out, he organized a company of volunteer troops for service in the Union Army.
The 101-man company, comprised mostly of Belleville men, arrived in Washington, D.C., in May.
Blewett’s company, part of the First New Jersey Brigade, helped to cover the retreat of the Union Army after the first battle of Bull Run in Virginia two months later.
A second lieutenant in 1861, Blewett was made a first lieutenant by order of General Philip Kearny (for whom the town across the Passaic River is named) in 1862.
At the Battle of Gaines’ Mill in June 1862, the Union troops sustained losses of nearly 6,000 killed and wounded at the hands of the Confederate Army; one of the dead was Color Sergeant Thomas Stevens of Belleville.
Blewett was shot in the chest but the bullet traveled down and lodged in his side. While returning to the rear for medical treatment, an exploding shell blew off his belt.
Blewett came home to Belleville on the Fourth of July. The fact that the bullet could not be located and removed prevented him from returning to active service.
Blewett served in the New Jersey National Guard and rose through the ranks to become a captain, major, and lieutenant colonel before resigning in 1874.
A jeweler by trade, William E. Blewett died in 1913.
Sources: American Civil War.com; Belleville: 150th-Anniversary Historical Highlights 1839-1989 by Robert B. Burnett and the Belleville 150th-Anniversary Committee Belleville, New Jersey. 1991
6.03.2007
NORMANDY INVASION
Belleville sons who perished in taking Normandy.
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
Copyright © 2007 by Anthony Buccino, all rights reserved. Content may not be used for commercial purposes without written permission.
Belleville Sons Honor Roll
5.31.2007
Paul Nelson Dies in Vietnam
(June 17, 1969) -- Pfc. Paul V. Nelson, 20, of Williams Street, was killed in action on May 31, in the northern part of South Vietnam, according to the Department of the Army.
Nelson was awarded the Silver Star “for gallantry in action against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam.”
PFC. Nelson “distinguished himself by intrepid actions” on May 31, while serving as a radio telephone operator with Company B, 1st Battalion, 52nd Infantry.
"On that date, the company was on a search and clear mission near Landing Zone Stinson when the point element came under intense enemy fire.
"Observing one of his comrades fall seriously wounded, Private Nelson, disregarding the danger involved, braved the enemy fire to assist in evacuating the wounded soldier.
"Returning to the area of contact, Private Nelson remained exposed to locate the enemy position. Despite the hostile barrage impacting all around him, Private Nelson located the insurgents’ position and then directed gunship fire on the enemy targets.
"At this point, Private Nelson was mortally wounded from the hostile fire. His timely and courageous actions were responsible for saving the life of his comrade and the defeat of the enemy force.
"Private Nelson’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, and reflected great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army. "
Pfc. Nelson joined the Army last June and had been in Vietnam for the last six months.
Continue reading
Nelson was awarded the Silver Star “for gallantry in action against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam.”
PFC. Nelson “distinguished himself by intrepid actions” on May 31, while serving as a radio telephone operator with Company B, 1st Battalion, 52nd Infantry.
"On that date, the company was on a search and clear mission near Landing Zone Stinson when the point element came under intense enemy fire.
"Observing one of his comrades fall seriously wounded, Private Nelson, disregarding the danger involved, braved the enemy fire to assist in evacuating the wounded soldier.
"Returning to the area of contact, Private Nelson remained exposed to locate the enemy position. Despite the hostile barrage impacting all around him, Private Nelson located the insurgents’ position and then directed gunship fire on the enemy targets.
"At this point, Private Nelson was mortally wounded from the hostile fire. His timely and courageous actions were responsible for saving the life of his comrade and the defeat of the enemy force.
"Private Nelson’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, and reflected great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army. "
Pfc. Nelson joined the Army last June and had been in Vietnam for the last six months.
Continue reading
5.29.2007
Memorial Day in Second River ... 1942
Belleville author/blogger Norman Price has recounted life in Belleville six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
"... It is June 6, 1942. It has been barely 6 months since Pearl Harbor. The nation is at war, New Jersey is at war, Belleville is at war. The war has just become more personal here. The first war casualty from Belleville in an enemy attack had occurred two weeks earlier and was announced in this week’s paper. ..."
Continue reading in Second River
"... It is June 6, 1942. It has been barely 6 months since Pearl Harbor. The nation is at war, New Jersey is at war, Belleville is at war. The war has just become more personal here. The first war casualty from Belleville in an enemy attack had occurred two weeks earlier and was announced in this week’s paper. ..."
Continue reading in Second River
5.17.2007
John R. Gorman
(April 25, 1952) John R. Gorman, 24, was killed in action in Korea a year ago, the Defense Department declared recently.
His parents Mr. and Mrs. Francis H. Gorman, who moved to Nutley only a month ago from Belleville, were informed of the casualty by a telegram from Washington.
Pfc. Gorman had been listed as missing in action since May 18, 1951.
Read more.
His parents Mr. and Mrs. Francis H. Gorman, who moved to Nutley only a month ago from Belleville, were informed of the casualty by a telegram from Washington.
Pfc. Gorman had been listed as missing in action since May 18, 1951.
Read more.
5.14.2007
Catalano Killed In Action At Anzio
(June 29, 1944) -- Pvt. Morris C. Catalano of Belleville Avenue, was killed in action at Anzio, Italy, on May 14.
The battle of Anzio, Italy, a beachhead invasion began in May 1944. Allied troops were held on the beachhead for five months before the breakthrough after Monte Cassino allowed the US 5th Army to dislodge the Germans from the Alban Hills and allow the Anzio force to begin its advance on Rome.
Continue reading
The battle of Anzio, Italy, a beachhead invasion began in May 1944. Allied troops were held on the beachhead for five months before the breakthrough after Monte Cassino allowed the US 5th Army to dislodge the Germans from the Alban Hills and allow the Anzio force to begin its advance on Rome.
Continue reading
5.12.2007
Alfred Barnes, KIA, in Vietnam
(May 22, 1969) -- Lt. Col. Alfred Barnes of Ralph Street, Belleville, a 20-year career Army office, was killed during an enemy rocket and mortar attack in Vietnam on May 12.
Mrs. Sadie R. Barnes, his wife, was notified by telegram of the overseas tragedy.
Lt. Col. Barnes had a personal dream fulfilled when he assumed command of a battalion two months ago.
Continue reading
Mrs. Sadie R. Barnes, his wife, was notified by telegram of the overseas tragedy.
Lt. Col. Barnes had a personal dream fulfilled when he assumed command of a battalion two months ago.
Continue reading
4.28.2007
Gilmer Adams Is KIA
(May 10, 1945) -- Seaman 1/c Gilmer Adams was killed in action in the Pacific where he was serving with amphibious Navy forces.
"Bucky" Adams, was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Willie Adams of May Street.
His parents received a telegram from the Navy on April 28, but the notice did not detail his reported date of death.
Born in North Carolina, Adams was 21 when he enlisted in 1942.
He spent 2-1/2 years in the Atlantic. He transferred to the Pacific theatre of operations six months ago.
"Bucky" Adams, was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Willie Adams of May Street.
His parents received a telegram from the Navy on April 28, but the notice did not detail his reported date of death.
Born in North Carolina, Adams was 21 when he enlisted in 1942.
He spent 2-1/2 years in the Atlantic. He transferred to the Pacific theatre of operations six months ago.
4.27.2007
2nd Lt. Anthony Noto
2nd Lt. Anthony Noto, of Frederick Street, was killed April 28, 1945, in a plane crash in Nettuno, Italy.
Born on July 21, 1918, he enlisted in the Air Force in July 1943. He served with the 459th Bombardment Group, 756th Bomber Squadron.
He was awarded the Air Medal and two Oak Leaf Clusters.
His service number is 02039301.
Read more.
Born on July 21, 1918, he enlisted in the Air Force in July 1943. He served with the 459th Bombardment Group, 756th Bomber Squadron.
He was awarded the Air Medal and two Oak Leaf Clusters.
His service number is 02039301.
Read more.
Lt. j.g. Richard T. Hayes
Lieutenant Junior Grade Richard T. Hayes, U.S. Navy serial No. 0-176597, served in the United States Naval Reserve.
He entered the Service from Ohio, and died on April 27, 1945.
He is listed on the Missing in Action or Buried at Sea Tablets of the Missing at Honolulu Memorial, Honolulu, Hawaii.
He was awarded the Air Medal with Gold Star.
Lt. Hayes is survived by his wife Mrs. Margaret Flewellyn Hayes, Washington Avenue, Belleville.
He entered the Service from Ohio, and died on April 27, 1945.
He is listed on the Missing in Action or Buried at Sea Tablets of the Missing at Honolulu Memorial, Honolulu, Hawaii.
He was awarded the Air Medal with Gold Star.
Lt. Hayes is survived by his wife Mrs. Margaret Flewellyn Hayes, Washington Avenue, Belleville.
4.25.2007
1st Lt. Wilfred Potis
(May 17, 1945) -- 1st Lt. Wilfred Potis, 28, son of Mrs. Charlotte H. Potis of Hornblower Avenue, was killed in England in an aircraft accident on April 26.
His wife, Dorothy, received the telegram the day after V-E day, when victory was declared in Europe.
Lt. Potis was the pilot of a B-24 Liberator, stationed with the 8th Air Force in England.
His last letter was written April 25 after he completed his 34th mission, the finale for the Eighth Air Force.
Read more.
His wife, Dorothy, received the telegram the day after V-E day, when victory was declared in Europe.
Lt. Potis was the pilot of a B-24 Liberator, stationed with the 8th Air Force in England.
His last letter was written April 25 after he completed his 34th mission, the finale for the Eighth Air Force.
Read more.
4.21.2007
DAV Building Groundbreaking Ceremony
Congressman William Pascrell, Jr. and Joseph Fornarotto pitch the first shovels at DAV building groundbreaking.BELLEVILLE, N.J. -- Disabled American Veterans will soon have a new local building where they can learn about benefits and follow up on their special needs.
Members of DAV Chapter 22, serving 312 members in Belleville and Nutley, broke ground for a new building on Mill Street on Saturday morning.
"The township has been very helpful," said DAV spokesman Joseph T. Fornarotto. The project, four years in the making, received full cooperation from Belleville council members, he said.
Members of DAV Chapter 22, serving 312 members in Belleville and Nutley, broke ground for a new building on Mill Street on Saturday morning.
"The township has been very helpful," said DAV spokesman Joseph T. Fornarotto. The project, four years in the making, received full cooperation from Belleville council members, he said.
Joe Fornarotto
The invocation was led by Rev. Mark A. O'Connell of St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, Belleville.
Congressman William Pascrell Jr. (D-8th) joined Fornarotto and the pair donned gold-painted hardhats and pitched the first shovelfuls of soil.
World War II Paratrooper William Falduti of Nutley was on hand to support the building project.
Also on hand for the ceremony were Belleville Councilman Steve Rovell, Nutley Commissioners Carmen Orechio and Tom Evans, and former Nutley Mayor and Commissioner John V. Kelly.
Supporters of the DAVPointing to the Belleville Senior Citizens building down the hill on Mill Street, Fornarotto reminded the crowd that building was built for $90,000 by veterans who volunteered their skills. He called on veterans again, calling for construction workers, laborers, masons, electricians and carpenters to step forward and make this new building a reality.
Fornarotto said the DAV chapter would soon add in members from Kearny and increase its ranks to more than 500 members.
When the DAV building is not being used for veterans, Fornarotto said it would be available for local civic and service groups.
Fornarotto said construction would begin after the final permits are okayed.
The patch of town property on Mill Street is set between an apartment building and the Second River.
Local permits are set, however the group needs a state okay and soil permits because of its proximity to the river which flows through Belleville Park and Branch Brook Park along Mill Street.
Local architect Robert Cozzarelli drew up the plans for the building.
The former headquarters on Washington Avenue was sold after becoming too cumbersome for the disabled members.
Former Belleville Mayor and Councilman James Messina, now of the Belleville Public Works Dept. worked up the estimates on building materials that need to be ordered for the building.
"We're ready to dig," Messina said, pointing to the back hoe behind the rows of people gathered for the ceremony.
Messina, who grew up a few blocks from the site, recalled as a kid rafting in the Second River from behind the former Red Yeast factory to the concrete dam that had been located alongside new building site.
The dam was removed years ago to relieve flooding upriver in Bloomfield. As it runs through the park, the Second River has steep concrete walls which tend to fill to the brim when the rains and winter runoff run heavy.
The Belleville-Nutley DAV Chapter 22 established the memorial on Union Avenue in Belleville.
Fornarotta, a Navy Machinist Mate 3rd Class, quit Essex County Vocational School to fight in World War II. In November 2000, Governor Christie Whitman awarded high school diplomas through the "Operation Recognition" program to Fornarotto and more than 80 New Jersey World War II veterans at a graduation ceremony at the War Memorial in Trenton.
Copyright © 2007 Anthony Buccino. All rights reserved.
4.19.2007
Pfc. William E. Thetford Jr.,
(May 17, 1945) Pfc. William E. Thetford Jr., 27, of Linden Avenue, was killed in action in Germany on April 20.
A member of the 63rd Infantry Division of the 7th Army, Thetford recently wrote home that he liberate Allied soldiers from German prison camps.
Thetford had been overseas since September 1943. He participated in campaigns in North Africa, Italy, France and Germany.
Thetford trained at Camp Croft, S.C.
A member of the 63rd Infantry Division of the 7th Army, Thetford recently wrote home that he liberate Allied soldiers from German prison camps.
Thetford had been overseas since September 1943. He participated in campaigns in North Africa, Italy, France and Germany.
Thetford trained at Camp Croft, S.C.
4.18.2007
Crowell and Flynn - Best Friends Killed in France
Belleville Pays Tribute To War Heroes Private Joseph Crowell Jr. and his boyhood friend Michael A. Flynn Jr. died in 1919 in France following the end of hostilities.
The young men's remains were returned to the United States and they were buried side-by-side at St. Peter's Church in Belleville, N.J.
4.14.2007
Mill Street, west of Franklin Avenue. Ground breaking April 21, 20074.07.2007
Pvt. Joseph C. Taibi
Pvt. Joseph C. Taibi, of Frederick Street, was killed in action in Tunisia, North Africa, on April 8, 1943.
Born on April 16, 1920.
He served with the 47th Infantry, 9th Division, PVT JC. His service number is 32057408.
Taibi VFW Post #6265 was established in his honor in Belleville, N.J.
Read more.
Born on April 16, 1920.
He served with the 47th Infantry, 9th Division, PVT JC. His service number is 32057408.
Taibi VFW Post #6265 was established in his honor in Belleville, N.J.
Read more.
Salvatore N. Sena,
Salvatore N. Sena, of Heckel Street, was killed in action at the beach-head assault, Anzio, Italy, on April 8, 1944. His is the township's 17th Gold Star.
The battle of Anzio, Italy, a beachhead invasion began in May 1944. Allied troops were held on the beachhead for five months before the breakthrough after Monte Cassino allowed the US 5th Army to dislodge the Germans from the Alban Hills and allow the Anzio force to begin its advance on Rome.
Read more.
The battle of Anzio, Italy, a beachhead invasion began in May 1944. Allied troops were held on the beachhead for five months before the breakthrough after Monte Cassino allowed the US 5th Army to dislodge the Germans from the Alban Hills and allow the Anzio force to begin its advance on Rome.
Read more.
Sgt. George Malizia
(May 3, 1945) -- Sgt. George Malizia was killed in Germany on April 7, 1945.
He was the son of Anna and George Malizia of Conover Avenue.
Sgt. Malizia entered the service May 5, 1944, and had served in England and France.
He was the son of Anna and George Malizia of Conover Avenue.
Sgt. Malizia entered the service May 5, 1944, and had served in England and France.
4.02.2007
Alvin C. Brown
New VFW Post Honors Two Belleville Negroes
Vet Organization Names PostAfter John Marshall and Alvin Brown, Both Killed In Italy During WW2
(Nov. 7, 1945) -- The Veterans of Foreign Wars commemorated the Brown-Marshall VFW Post at 82 Broad Street, Bloomfield in honor of John Marshall and Alvin Brown.
John Marshall was killed in action in Italy while serving with the 371st Infantry of the 92nd Division in July 1944.
Alvin Brown was killed in action while serving with the same outfit in April 1945. He had previously served six years in the National Guard before entering the Army.
Read more.
Vet Organization Names PostAfter John Marshall and Alvin Brown, Both Killed In Italy During WW2
(Nov. 7, 1945) -- The Veterans of Foreign Wars commemorated the Brown-Marshall VFW Post at 82 Broad Street, Bloomfield in honor of John Marshall and Alvin Brown.
John Marshall was killed in action in Italy while serving with the 371st Infantry of the 92nd Division in July 1944.
Alvin Brown was killed in action while serving with the same outfit in April 1945. He had previously served six years in the National Guard before entering the Army.
Read more.
4.01.2007
JOHN J. ROGERS - CIVIL WAR CASUALTY
John Rogers died April 8, 1865, of his wounds, according to the Civil War Diary of James C. Taylor of Belleville, Company F, 39th Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers, in the War to Save the Union of the United States of America, published in 1925.
In his diary, Taylor wrote on April 1: “At 11 last night 2 pieces of heavy artillery were brought into Fort Davis. This looks ominous. At 11:30 the regiment fell in and went out alongside the road where they waited there for hot coffee, and then we removed down to the front. We moved as far front as we could and then were ordered to lie flat on the ground. The enemy are firing lively with mortar shells and rifle shots. While lying flat, John Rodgers received a fatal wound.”
Taylor enlisted in Captain John Hunkele’s Company on Sept. 17, 1864, along with Rodgers, James M. Crisp, Linus Ackerman, Edmund Holmes, Charles Stanford, James McCluskey and Daniel McGinnis.
In his diary, Taylor wrote on April 1: “At 11 last night 2 pieces of heavy artillery were brought into Fort Davis. This looks ominous. At 11:30 the regiment fell in and went out alongside the road where they waited there for hot coffee, and then we removed down to the front. We moved as far front as we could and then were ordered to lie flat on the ground. The enemy are firing lively with mortar shells and rifle shots. While lying flat, John Rodgers received a fatal wound.”
Taylor enlisted in Captain John Hunkele’s Company on Sept. 17, 1864, along with Rodgers, James M. Crisp, Linus Ackerman, Edmund Holmes, Charles Stanford, James McCluskey and Daniel McGinnis.
3.15.2007
Frank A. Cancelliere - March 15
Corporal Frank A. Cancelliere of Sanford Avenue, was killed March 15, 1969, near Quang Tri Province in Vietnam.
According to the official report, he died as a result of fragmentation wounds to the head and body from a friendly grenade that was accidentally detonated in the chow line at the mess hall.
Born on June 27, 1948, he enlisted in the Marines, he began active duty on Sept. 13, 1967.
He served with the CO B 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, FMF RPO San Francisco.
He is buried in the Belleville Avenue Cemetery, Bloomfield, N.J.
For more information.
According to the official report, he died as a result of fragmentation wounds to the head and body from a friendly grenade that was accidentally detonated in the chow line at the mess hall.
Born on June 27, 1948, he enlisted in the Marines, he began active duty on Sept. 13, 1967.
He served with the CO B 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, FMF RPO San Francisco.
He is buried in the Belleville Avenue Cemetery, Bloomfield, N.J.
For more information.
3.04.2007
Donald Saunders - March 4
"Since he had to leave this world, I'm glad he left it the way he did, with courage and fighting for his country."
There was little else for William D. Saunders of High Street, Belleville, to say. He is the father of Pfc. Donald Saunders who was killed in action in Vietnam March 4, 1968.
The young Saunders, only 20, died of wounds on his head and body from an enemy mortar fire in Quang Tri last week.
Saunders enlisted in the Marines two years ago on Sept. 28. It was a day that William Saunders will never forget as it was the elder Saunders' birthday.
Donald completed his basic training at Parris Island, S.C., and advanced infantry training at Camp Lejeune, N.C. He volunteered for duty in Vietnam.
When asked why, Mrs. Maisie Saunders, his mother, said, "Donald was never too talkative. He made his own decisions. I think he felt the boys were doing a good job and he should back them up."
"It was just a job that had to be done, for him," added Saunders, and he never complained. In all his letters there was never a word of complaint. He tried to reassure us, in fact."
There was little else for William D. Saunders of High Street, Belleville, to say. He is the father of Pfc. Donald Saunders who was killed in action in Vietnam March 4, 1968.
The young Saunders, only 20, died of wounds on his head and body from an enemy mortar fire in Quang Tri last week.
Saunders enlisted in the Marines two years ago on Sept. 28. It was a day that William Saunders will never forget as it was the elder Saunders' birthday.
Donald completed his basic training at Parris Island, S.C., and advanced infantry training at Camp Lejeune, N.C. He volunteered for duty in Vietnam.
When asked why, Mrs. Maisie Saunders, his mother, said, "Donald was never too talkative. He made his own decisions. I think he felt the boys were doing a good job and he should back them up."
"It was just a job that had to be done, for him," added Saunders, and he never complained. In all his letters there was never a word of complaint. He tried to reassure us, in fact."
2.24.2007
Walter J. Antonik Killed In Crash
Navy Ordinanceman Loses Life in Bomber
(Jan. 11, 1945) -- Walter J. Antonik, 20, was killed Jan. 3 in the crash of a Liberator bomber on which he was a gunner and ordnanceman.
He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Antonik of Ralph Street.
The patrol bomber, VPB-105, serial No. 38947, was returning from an operational mission and had been diverted to Exeter Airport due to bad weather, including patches of rain, sleet and snow flurries at its home base at Fleet Air Wing 7, Dunkeswell Airfield.
Continue reading
(Jan. 11, 1945) -- Walter J. Antonik, 20, was killed Jan. 3 in the crash of a Liberator bomber on which he was a gunner and ordnanceman.
He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Antonik of Ralph Street.
The patrol bomber, VPB-105, serial No. 38947, was returning from an operational mission and had been diverted to Exeter Airport due to bad weather, including patches of rain, sleet and snow flurries at its home base at Fleet Air Wing 7, Dunkeswell Airfield.
Continue reading
1.31.2007
39th Infantry - Volunteers: NJ Civil War Records
N.J. Civil War Record: Page 1129
Thirty-ninth Regiment - Infantry - Volunteers.
The Thirty-ninth Regiment was organized under the provisions of an Act of Congress, approved July 22, 1861, and an Act of Congress, approved July 4, 1864, as set forth in General Orders No. 224, dated War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., July 6, 1864, and under authority received from the War Department for the raising of two regiments of Infantry, and promulgated in General Orders No. 4, dated Office of Adjutant General, Trenton, N. J., August 24, 1864.
The Regiment was organized under the provisions of General Orders No. 110, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., April 29, 1863. Instructions were issued and recruiting for the Regiment immediately commenced. The Headquarters of the Regiment was established at Camp Frelinghuysen, Newark, N. J., and active measures were put forth to complete the organization at an early day.
The required number of men to complete the Regiment was soon raised and mustered into the service of the United States, by companies, for one year.
Company A was mustered in October 11; Company B, September 30; Company C, October 8; Company D, October 3; Company E, September 23; Company F, September 25; Company G, September 23; Company H, September 26; Company I, October 1; Company K, September 23, 1864, at Camp Frelinghuysen, Newark, N. J., by William O. Douglass, Second Lieutenant, Fourteenth Infantry, United States Army.
Soon after the commencement of this regiment, authority was issued for the raising of another regiment of Infantry, to be known as the Forty-first, recruiting being dull it failed of success - the men that had been enlisted for it were transferred to and joined this regiment.
The Regiment was fully completed and organized by the 11th day of October, 1864, having a full complement of men. Officers, 39; Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates, 973. Total, 1012.
It left the State by detachments. Companies E, F, G, H, and K, left October 4, 1864, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel James H. Close; Company D, left October 9th, under the command of Captain Fowler Merrill; Companies B and I, left October 10th, under the command of Major William T. Cornish, and Companies A, C, and Field and Staff, left October 14, 1864, under the command of Colonel Abram C. Wildrick, and proceeded under orders direct to the front. Arriving at City Point, Va., it was temporarily assigned to duty with General Benham's Brigade of Engineers, within the fortifications around Petersburg.
It remained in this connection but a short time; when it was assigned to the Ninth Army Corps. During the months of March and April, 1865, the strength of the Regiment was increased by the joining from Draft Rendezvous, Trenton, N. J., of a large number of recruits.
The Regiment continued its organization and remained in active service until the close of the war, and those not entitled to discharge under the provisions of General Orders No. 77, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., April 28, 1865, were transferred to the Thirty-third Regiment, in compliance with Special Orders No. 45, dated Headquarters, Ninth Army Corps, June 15, 1865, and were discharged with that regiment.
The remainder were mustered out of service near Alexandria, Va., June 17, 1865, under provisions of special orders from War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., dated May 18, 1865, by Edward Rose, First Lieutenant Fifty-sixth Infantry, Massachusetts Volunteers, Assistant Commissary of Musters, Second Division, Ninth Army Corps.
The Regiment was first attached to General Benham's Brigade of Engineers, Army of the James - then to the First Brigade, Second Division, Ninth Army Corps.
The Regiment took part in the following engagements: Before Petersburg, Va., (Capture of Fort Mahone), April 2, 1865.
Source: NJ State Library, NJ Civil War Record, Page 1129
Thirty-ninth Regiment - Infantry - Volunteers.
The Thirty-ninth Regiment was organized under the provisions of an Act of Congress, approved July 22, 1861, and an Act of Congress, approved July 4, 1864, as set forth in General Orders No. 224, dated War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., July 6, 1864, and under authority received from the War Department for the raising of two regiments of Infantry, and promulgated in General Orders No. 4, dated Office of Adjutant General, Trenton, N. J., August 24, 1864.
The Regiment was organized under the provisions of General Orders No. 110, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., April 29, 1863. Instructions were issued and recruiting for the Regiment immediately commenced. The Headquarters of the Regiment was established at Camp Frelinghuysen, Newark, N. J., and active measures were put forth to complete the organization at an early day.
The required number of men to complete the Regiment was soon raised and mustered into the service of the United States, by companies, for one year.
Company A was mustered in October 11; Company B, September 30; Company C, October 8; Company D, October 3; Company E, September 23; Company F, September 25; Company G, September 23; Company H, September 26; Company I, October 1; Company K, September 23, 1864, at Camp Frelinghuysen, Newark, N. J., by William O. Douglass, Second Lieutenant, Fourteenth Infantry, United States Army.
Soon after the commencement of this regiment, authority was issued for the raising of another regiment of Infantry, to be known as the Forty-first, recruiting being dull it failed of success - the men that had been enlisted for it were transferred to and joined this regiment.
The Regiment was fully completed and organized by the 11th day of October, 1864, having a full complement of men. Officers, 39; Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates, 973. Total, 1012.
It left the State by detachments. Companies E, F, G, H, and K, left October 4, 1864, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel James H. Close; Company D, left October 9th, under the command of Captain Fowler Merrill; Companies B and I, left October 10th, under the command of Major William T. Cornish, and Companies A, C, and Field and Staff, left October 14, 1864, under the command of Colonel Abram C. Wildrick, and proceeded under orders direct to the front. Arriving at City Point, Va., it was temporarily assigned to duty with General Benham's Brigade of Engineers, within the fortifications around Petersburg.
It remained in this connection but a short time; when it was assigned to the Ninth Army Corps. During the months of March and April, 1865, the strength of the Regiment was increased by the joining from Draft Rendezvous, Trenton, N. J., of a large number of recruits.
The Regiment continued its organization and remained in active service until the close of the war, and those not entitled to discharge under the provisions of General Orders No. 77, War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., April 28, 1865, were transferred to the Thirty-third Regiment, in compliance with Special Orders No. 45, dated Headquarters, Ninth Army Corps, June 15, 1865, and were discharged with that regiment.
The remainder were mustered out of service near Alexandria, Va., June 17, 1865, under provisions of special orders from War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, D. C., dated May 18, 1865, by Edward Rose, First Lieutenant Fifty-sixth Infantry, Massachusetts Volunteers, Assistant Commissary of Musters, Second Division, Ninth Army Corps.
The Regiment was first attached to General Benham's Brigade of Engineers, Army of the James - then to the First Brigade, Second Division, Ninth Army Corps.
The Regiment took part in the following engagements: Before Petersburg, Va., (Capture of Fort Mahone), April 2, 1865.
Source: NJ State Library, NJ Civil War Record, Page 1129
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)