Vol. II No. 32 BENGAL AIR DEPOT JULY 21, 1945
RUPEES FLOW AT MONTE CARLO NITE
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THEY SWEATED OUT B-29 FORAYS
VETERAN MAINTENANCE MEN OF EARLY SUPERFORT RAIDS STATIONED HERE Nine GIs of the 9th Engine Overhaul who participated in the initial trials of the B-29 bombing raids are the proud wearers of four bronze battle stars each as a result of their maintenance work during the period from June to October 1944. The stars were awarded one each for the Air Offensive against Japan: the India-Burma Campaign; the China Campaign; and the Air Combat at Palembang, Sumatra. Although recently united in the shop area, the men served at different stations of a bomber maintenance squadron with the 20th Bomber Command. Cpl. James F. Gainey, one of the awardees of the battle stars, recalled most vividly how the GIs with him would have to rise at all hours of the night to repair the B-29s: "The first two months were mainly experimental even though the B-29s were doing plenty of damage. After each raid, the planes would come back and we would have to iron out the kinks and bugs the engines had developed during their long flights. Although we had a number of scares, we never were bombed. I guess our fighter planes were just too much for the Japs." Cpl. Henry H. Hoeper, another recipient, was impressed with the long wait for the returning planes: "The first number of times it wasn't so bad because we always surprised the Japs. But then the enemy started their defenses working and our worries began. We used to watch along the sidelines at the time they were scheduled back. It would be a long wait sometimes before the first appeared. Then we would sweat it out as one plane after another landed. We sure felt glad when ours would finally appear. And it always did appear." "You could always tell if anything happened by the expression on the crew's faces," added Pfc. Francis J. Currie. "The crews never did have much to say at any time because they were plenty tired. However, we learned to read their faces. You could tell quickly enough when we had lost a plane." Currie explained that often they would fly to advance bases to repair the huge bombers in case the planes could not make it back to their bases. "We always helped out the other repair crews if there was not much damage to our plane. What we wouldn't give to be back there now taking care of the big boys." The other members of this select group with four bronze battle stars each are Pfcs. Irving Tannenbaum, Anthony M. Nastasi, John J. Hughes, Harrell E. Holloway, Peter G. Rotko, Jr. and Sgt. Glenn W. Schumaker. |
In the top picture we present two sawing sahibs making tooth-picks the hard way. Not the way the timber shredder on the right is
seated and yet tomorrow he'll be able to walk without benefit of crutches or kinks cricking his stepping apparatus.
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WINNERS OBTAIN PX ITEMS WITH FAKE MONEY A "Monte Carlo" night held at Rajah's Rest Monday was a huge success. Hundreds of men participated in the games of poker, craps, chuck-a-luck and black jack which were played with fake money for prizes. Twenty-five dollars worth of bogus money was presented every man at the beginning of the evening and at its conclusion all over the original sum was redeemed in PX prizes such as beer, film, candy, etc. Each of these prize items had a set valuation in fake money. For instance, a roll of 35 mm film was valued at two hundred and fifty dollars, and so on through a large variety of items. Big winners were Cpl. John A. Burrell of the 2485th QM who amassed a 525 dollar fortune and Cpl. Jack Gallo of the 923d Signal who won 421 dollars. Throughout the evening cold drinks were served and the perspiring gamblers consumed many gallons of the sift liquids. Realism was further enhanced by the appearance of Evelyne Slor as a cigarette girl. Lauds A S C That the Air Service Command in this theater had "contributed materially to the success of the XX Bomber Command," was the substance of a recent letter of commendation from Brig. Gen. Joseph Smith, Deputy Commander, XX Air Force, to Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Hanley, Jr., CG, ASC, IBT. There can be little doubt that the Bengal Air Depot's contribution in supply and repair carried a lot of weight - both literally and figuratively. Stating, "We all understand... that the success of any one organization is dependent on many factors, the most important perhaps being the amount and quality of cooperation... such organization is able to derive from outside sources;" Gen. Smith added that this has been particularly true of the XX Bomber Command in this theater. "At all times and under all circumstances, we have received from your command the most courteous and willing assistance... therefore, I would like to express (to all men in the ASC) my appreciation for the wholehearted cooperation you have shown." |
UNUSUAL COIN COLLECTION STARTED IN NORTH AFRICA
One of the most unique and largest coin collections in the IBT is believed to be that owned by Sgt. Harry Losin of the 28th Hq. Sqdn.
Sgt. Losin began dabbling in numismatics while enroute overseas. "It began in North Africa," he reminisced. "The Arab urchins there were disposing of their unacceptable currencies to unsuspecting GIs. You bought a copy of "Stars and Stripes" and tendered a five franc note for payment. Those little sharpers would dig into their modified mattress covers and find maybe a one franc note for change, and, with a showman like display of honesty, fill you palm with Algerian, Italian, Moroccan, Egyptian, and other coins."
Thus started on his hobby, Sgt. Losin decided to start collecting coins in earnest. Now his collection totals well over 300 rare and distinctive coins with more than 40 countries represented.
BIGGEST COIN
The biggest coin in the assemblage is a British Crown, about the size of our Uncle Sugar cartwheels. The smallest is the familiar pice piece of India. Losin has the complete set of pice running back from George VI to the East India Company, dated 1835. The oldest coins are four Mogul coins made 400 years ago.
"The Mogul coins are unminted," Sgt. Losin stated. "The Moguls used to commission their pet silversmiths to batter out a hunk of silver and then to inscribe the large flat surface with the Mogul's name and antecedents. Finally, these artisans simply punched out round, square, diamond-shaped, and other patterns with primitive tools. The last step was to weigh them individually and clip off edges to bring them down to one tola. That's why today, the silver rupee weighs exactly one tola; about one-fifth of an ounce."
The oldest "minted" job in Losin's collection is a thruppence of George III dated 1762. A British naval gunner gave him this coin telling him it would remain a good luck piece if he kept it and would bring bad luck if he sold or traded it. South Africans call it a "tikki."
The prize of the collection, according to Losin, is a Jap silver coin. It's prized because the nearest he's come to a Jap was seated about halfway down at the post theater looking at the Hollywood variety.
Included in the coin compilation are Portuguese escudos and Portuguese Indian tangas, Argentine centavos, Swiss and Belgian francs, Tunisian centimes, Palestine mils, Chinese cash, Javanese guilders, German East African hellers, Egyptian piatres, and Italian lira. There are others with unknown names, values, and dates from Siam, Iran, Yemen, Iraq, Nepal, Tibet, Afghanistan and other places.
Recently, some Indian friends helped him in identifying one large silver coin which was issued by the Nizam of Hyderabad, one of the current Rajahs. Losin has many more unidentified from places like Gwalier, Cutch, Bahawalpur, and Madras.
All amateur or professional numismatists interested in the collection, or possessing specimens they'd like to swap, are invited to drop around and contact Sgt. Losin who has duplicates on some items in his collection and will gladly exchange coins.
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Into A Rut
Friday the 13th, a week ago, that superstitious day when you normally become conscious of broken mirrors, walking under a ladder, and other bad luck trivia, was really impressive to Pfc. Eddie Abbott of the 325th Sup. Sqdn.
It seems Abbott was destined to leave as a train guard on that day and everything happened in thirteens. His ticket was number 13, the train he was leaving on was number 13, he had 13 rupees in his pocket, and his laundry coming back with one item missing numbered 13 pieces.
To top it all off he missed the train on that day and left the next morning. He was 13 minutes late getting to train number 13.
Iced Drinks
In 83d's Dayroom
The 83d Hq. Sqdn. has inaugurated another feature in their dayroom which is meeting with great success. From seven until one on Saturday evenings and from seven until twelve on Sunday and Monday nights ice cold beer and fruit juices are served over the bar.
The beer and juices, of course are turned in by the GIs, who receive chits in return. Voluntary contributions furnish money for ice, and sandwiches are furnished. Arrangements for chits, ice and serving are handled by Sgt. Walter W. Michalism and Cpl. Joe Kamper who have donated their time to the men of the organization baksheesh.
SIGNAL UNITS DAYROOM OPENED
The dayroom of the combined signal companies was opened with a bang Sunday at one pm with the presence of top signal officers, the Rajah's Rest pulchritude, a portion of the 574th AAF band and the signal men themselves, well-scrubbed and polished for the occasion.
Speechmaking was at a minimum with a "here it is fellows, go to it" spirit prevailing. The massed ARC girls provided the "ohs and ahs" for Joe Parente's oil paintings, the band competed with the men as to which could make the most noise, and the ample refreshment did not take long to disappear.
Credit for the new clubhouse goes impartially to the men of the 923d, 893d, and 903d Signal Companies, who in their spare time did a handsome job of planning and fitting out of the dayroom.
Special mention goes to T/3s Alfred Gottlieb of the 903d and Edward B. Thom of the 893d who did a splendid job of arranging and carrying through the reception. Pfcs. Mike Messana and Oscar Perdue of the 923d with T/5 Milton Schmitt of the 893d made the comfortable furniture and card and game tables which Pfc. Peter Koenig of the 893d varnished and shellacked. T/4 Amil Zivkovich of the 893d supervised the dayroom construction while T/4 Henry Desrosiers and S/Sgt. Wm. Wilkin, both of the 903d, did the machine and electrical work. The tooled ash trays were the work of T/4 Nick Palazzo of the 903d.
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Victory Garden Pays Dividends The only victory garden on the Depot paid dividends this week by producing three bunches of radishes to the delight of its owner, Pfc. Luke Ambrose, who converted a three by seven foot plot on the Chapel's grounds to farming land. "Mighty tasty," proclaimed Ambrose as he consumed the fruits of his labor in the mess hall at dinner time while less fortunate GIs drooled as the red vegetable marbles disappeared down his gullet. In addition to more radishes which will be edible soon, Ambrose has planted lettuce, corn, tomatoes and hold onto your belt buckle - even watermelons. All this, mind you in one midget three by seven size it looks like Ambrose certainly has the right idea. |
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Picture History of Bengal Air Depot During the coming week the Information and Education Section will display at Rajah's Rest a pictorial history of the Depot from its inception in 1943 to its present status as the largest Air Depot outside the continental United States. Vividly illustrated will be the original difficulties of housing and transportation and the struggle to do the job. |
Size Limit Lifted In Photo Contest
What has probably been the main deterrent for GIs in the photo contest being conducted by Special Service - the required 5 x 7 minimum size of prints - has been lifted due to a new arrangement. Photos may be submitted in any size. The nine winners - top three in three classes - will be enlarged to the required size and will be sent on for entry in the theater-wide contest.
Dig your best photos out of your foot locker and submit them, now, to the Special Service Office. They can be entered in any one of three classes, with no limit on the number of entries. The photographs may be in scenic, army activities in India and portrait classes.
The local contest closes August 18th. Judge will be Lt. Bud Widom of the SSO, Lt. Wm. Wall, Asst. Photo Lab Officer, and S/Sgt. Ed Ruddy, non-commissioned burra sahib of Photo Supply. All photos should be marked with the contributor's name, rank, ASN and organization; as well as technical information such as camera, lighting conditions, exposure, etc. All entries excepting the prize winning three in each class will be returned.
Send your photos in - that particular favorite of yours may win you a prize.
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USAFI courses and the GI Bill of Rights are methods that have been initiated to prepare the serviceman for his return to civil life. The USAFI courses enable a GI to study up on the vocations he intends to enter or rejoin after his discharge as well as offering an opportunity to soldiers to learn about any trade or occupation they intend to become a part of.
The GI Bill of Rights, one of the most ambitious pieces of soldier legislation ever turned out by Congress, has set up facilities to aid the returning soldier to borrow money for a home or business, offers free schooling, helps in job placement, guarantees free hospitalization and medical care and in various other ways makes the conversion from khakis to pin-stripes much more painless that it could be.
But, and it is a big but, almost all authorities in the United States agree that the solution to post-war employment rests with the individual communities - with Federal aid.
The reconversion of the United States' "civilian army" poses a problem of awe-inspiring magnitude. It is a problem that can be licked by the people of your home town.
Already citizens of many cities and towns at home have established veterans' centers. These centers coordinate readjustment and re-employment facilities provided by state and federal agencies.
A typical and highly successful plan for veteran readjustment has been in use in Connecticut. The purpose of the plan, as explained by its deviser, is "to supply something the GI Bill of Rights, operating on a wholesale basis, lacks - treatment of the veteran as an individual, with individual traits, wishes, aptitudes and interests."
The industrial community of Bridgeport is one of the cities that has successfully adopted the program. The community center there was organized by a veterans' re-employment and advisory committee composed of local representatives of all available agencies interested in the welfare of veterans, including the U.S. Veteran's Administration, U.S. Employment Service, state agencies, veterans' organizations and citizen groups. The center is equipped to see the returned servicemen all the way through the problems of selecting a vocation, training, apprenticeship or formal education and job placement.
If a vet has decided on his choice of vocation, finding a job is usually simple - a conference with the U.S. Employment Service has often done the trick. If the ex-serviceman has not made a choice, he is referred to the job counseling division where he discusses his interests with trained advisers and is given aptitude tests.
Veterans' centers have been set up in places like New York City, Detroit, Oklahoma City, Altoona (Pa.) and Lenawee County (Mich.).
In New York City there are two main guidance bureaus for ex-servicemen, the veterans' service center and the New York City veterans' center. Both centers have similar coordinated facilities for advising veterans on such problems as jobs, education, health and housing. The New York City vet center, opened in June, is in a nine-story building in which more than 30 public and private agencies are represented. The veterans' center, which was opened in April '44, has already serviced 50,000 veterans.
Detroit's information center, opened last October, has guided over 12,000 ex-GIs. This bureau is strictly a referral center to direct vets to the agencies qualified to give the needed service. The Oklahoma City vet center is similar to those in Bridgeport and NYC.
And so they go. The people at home are not forgetting the servicemen. The post-war national equanimity depends on them, just as the victorious war has depended on you.
BENGAL AIR DEPOT - A YEAR AGO
The Engine Overhaul shops formally opened in a ceremony that was literally sprinkled with brass onlookers. Among the notables who attended the opening of the largest engine overhaul plant outside the United States were: Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Hanley, Jr., Brig. Gen. LaVerne Saunders, Brig. Gen. James L. Spry, Col. Robey, Col. Thomas B. MacDonald of the American contingent and Mr. R. G. Casey, Governor of Bengal, Air Marshal O. E. Carter, Maj. Gen. F. H. Skinner and Air Commander P. S. Blockey of the British group. Capt. R. D. Hicks, Depot Adjutant, welcomed the visitors at the jetty and Brig. Gen. (then colonel) Frank D. Hackett, CO of the Depot, made the opening address.
The ordnance supply work of the 1953d Ord. Co. was related while the Sweetheart of APO 492 contest swung into its second week with photos pouring in to the Tiger Rag office.
The Depot Review featured Pvt. John J. McCarthy - now first sergeant of the 83d Hq. Sqdn.
And the consensus of opinion of mud-happy GIs was: "It's wet!"
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Mil Civ Pers Bldg Swanky Business intent though they may be, visitors are somewhat staggered at the inside appearance of the new Military and Civilian Personnel Building which formerly housed the camera repair department. On the outside, the building is just as drab as ever but the interior has the appearance of swank and space rivalled by very few other places. Nevertheless, an air of efficiency is noticeable. Under Lt. Burns Waggener, Personnel and Properties Officer, the work is so divided that T/Sgt. Larry J. Goldberg of 9th Eng. Overhaul handles the complex civilianpersonnel while Cpl. Earl Alles of the 48th Repair takes care of military affairs. T/Sgt. Robert Schwefel of 314th Sq. is in charge of properties. Military and Civilian Personnel coordinates all departments of the Maintenance Division and takes care of all requirements for both military and civilian personnel. It also acts as arbitrator, handles complaints and generally acts as a big uncle top disputants. |
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Camera Repair Expands Again Although it is only a few months ago that the Camera Repair moved to greatly increased quarters, work has mounted to such an extent that additional space has had to be requisitioned with the moving to be undertaken this week. The heavy equipment section of Camera Repair will occupy the new quarters formerly used for the final preparation of engines. Additional personnel has been added to take care of the overflow work. According to T/Sgt. John Meissner of the 320th Repair, NCO in charge, units all over the theater have been sending equipment in for general overhaul and repair. He cannot recall another instance when Camera Repair had such a large accumulation of cameras on hand to fix. However, he feels that with the expansion, the GIs working with him will be able to reduce the total considerably in very quick order. |
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Hangar Warehouses Quickly Used "What has this Henry J. Kaiser got that we haven't got?" was the proud query of T/Sgt. John H. Bradley of 48th Repair who is NCO in charge under the shops superintendent. "You see the hangar which one of the signal units just completed?" pointing out a newly burnished and solid looking affair. "Well, the roof had hardly been put up when we were already using the space. We just have too much stock to let any building stand idle. So long as it can protect the material from the weather, it is going to be used. "For instance, there's the other hangar which was completed just a short time before this one was. You will not find an inch in it that hasn't already been assigned for one purpose or another. And so it goes for every warehouse we have here. If the Japs could see the mounting supplies we have they would holler uncle but quick. "You read in the papers how just as soon as one ship is launched, a keel is being laid for another. Well, we don't bother to even launch our ships before they are being used." |
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Currency Exchange Method Changed It won't be as easy as before to exchange your foreign currency for rupees but the two tellers at the Finance Office are going to smooth your path considerably if you follow instructions. Every time you now change your dollars, or what have you, to rupees, a form will have to be filled out. However, it has been made quite simple and you can dash it off in a second. Either the ever smiling S/Sgt. Ernest Bacigalupi or Cpl. Walter R. Corwey, his new sidekick, will be glad to help. Incidentally, Corwey says you have to come to the Finance Office to get rid of your foreign money. Neither the PX, ARC, nor the orderly rooms can accept foreign currency. And just to remind you where you are even U.S. smackers are foreign here. |
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Officers Sales Breaks Record A new record for one day's sales was established last week at Officers Sales when the two GIs working there sold $1314.00 worth of merchandise over the counter. According to Cpl. Orie Miller of the 428th QMs, high total sales previously averaged about $1,000.00 daily but it is only three months ago that $350.. taken in was considered a very bust day. The increase seems to be due to the many additional officers passing through the theater as well as the numerous new items added to the stock. A very popular addition is the line of WAC and nurses wear, which to quote Pfc. Julius E. Cabron of the 471st QMs, Miller's assistant, "Causes the prettiest gals in India to pass in review." |
USE SOLDIERS’ DEPOSITS FOR CIVVIES CLOTHES
TIGER RAG STAFF ARTICLE
In the last war, many a GI came home to find he required a new and complete wardrobe because his old clothes no longer fitted.
Just to keep tabs on what a new layout would cost you, your Tiger Rag, at no expense to itself, gained the services of one Henry L. Jackson, presumably a feather merchant who knows his stuff. And the eyebrows started raising towards the clouds as the figures - not feminine ones - were submitted. Hold on to your pocketbooks. A suit these days, just ordinary, costs $40. Three shirts at $2.50 each sets you back $7.50. Two ties which Christmas
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Then Jackson has an eye for the leisurely life for he puts in a pair of slacks at $9.00 and ye sports jacket at a mere $20.00.
A raincoat deducts $12.00, a burly overcoat $35.00 and a set of underwear, two seems to be enough, $3.00. Last, but not least in a civilized world, is a belt or suspenders for which we remove $1.60.
Read it and weep. The total comes to $150 (More than $2,100 in 2020).
No wonder some of the lads want to stay in the army. But the army says go whether you're ready or not; so you had better get set.
Here's where the Finance Office comes in! Lt. Burton Hutchinson, Asst. Depot Finance Officer, says there is an easy way to have the necessary wampum when that day arrives. (You know which one, don't you?) It's Soldiers' Deposits. A few "chips" put away each month and you'll be saved. He says you can always get it out if you need it and meanwhile you collect 4% on your money. "You can't beat a deal like that anywhere."
The operation is painless enough, according to Cpl. Edward Austin of the 28th Hq. Sqdn. To open up an account just read on your bulletin board which day deposits can be made. If the money is making holes in your pocket, the 1st Sergeant should be glad to put it away for you temporarily. Then, take your money firmly in your hands and step into that holy of holies, the orderly room. You'll be greeted with smiles, your money taken gently away and a deposit book issued to fill up the vacuum. Then, every time you make an additional deposit, the amount is entered before you.
The orderly room keeps the books. But not for long. Right after you've salted away your sum, it rushes the bankbook to the Finance Office. The officer there - it can be either Lt. Hutchinson or Maj. Kenneth Osborn verifies the amounts and signs it.
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GIs Wanted For U.S. Foreign Service
All Depot GIs interested in a discharge from the service and who desire to join the U.S. Foreign Service should take heed to the recent announcement by the State Department that it has begun recruiting 400 young men and women from the military forces to build up the "seriously understaffed" foreign service of the Department. This recruitment is being undertaken "because of the greatly expanding American responsibility in international relations in the post-war period."
Admission to the American Foreign Service which maintains embassies and legations at the capitals of 56 foreign countries, and consulates and vice consulates in 255 of the leading cities of the world, is gained by passing successfully through three separate states of Candidature. A candidate begins by receiving the proper designation as to his suitability for the examination. He must then pass the examinations, a step which places his name on the eligible list. The final move, his appointment to a post, most occur during the life of his particular eligible list, which is two years. No one can receive appointment who is under 21 years of age at the time of examination, or who will reach the age of 35 before the completion of the examination; who has not been a citizen of the United States for at least 15 years; who is married to an alien; and who is not of good character and habits. It is not required that a candidate have a college education.
Those who desire further details concerning this opportunity should get in touch with Pfc. Norman Kiell at the Special Service Office.
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EVERY MAN A KING ?
TIGER RAG STAFF ARTICLE
The Bengal Air Depot, in rivalry with other resplendent Empires or installations that boast a show place, has one of its own. A place of unique distinction called The Throne Room.
Here, every day with Sunday thrown in, may be found men ranging from the "haven't-a-chance" privates to the higher gilded brass with all of them reigning supreme when certain occasions demand.
This Throne Room, inaugurated because of dire emergencies, is like America itself; very democratic. And unlike most auspicious places is very informal in aspect. Humor, tragedy, sympathy, and merriment are all to be found here.
All anyone has to do to secure entrance into this seated domain is furnish proof that they're fit subjects for admittance. In some cases if an individual has the proper credentials, and it takes these to get in - two slips signed by higher authority - they may reign in the Throne Room all day or until events terminate their calm. Between 25 and 30 "semi-kings" are admitted daily.
If you'd like to visit the Throne Room it's quite simply arranged. Just acquire any of these three membership items: dysentery, diarrhea, or dyspepsia, and brother you're in! For the Throne Room is located at the Infirmary and they determine by your visits on the Throne just how ill you are.
Sgt. Marvin Haas and Cpl. Sylvan Gross conduct the arrangements. They'll lead you in and vice-versa.
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A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA
TIGER RAG STAFF ARTICLE
GI humor and nostalgia, like garlic on a politician's breath, is completely overwhelming. Especially on the sunbaked acres of this Depot. Everywhere your good eye focuses or your tired feet tread there are memories transplanted here from home.
Take the streets that bump along throughout the Depot - Broadway, Houston, Hollywood Avenue, Peachtree Lane, even, and may the spiders preserve us, Betel-nut Lane - all these are here to lend a Stateside atmosphere.
But the best evidence of humor and, in some cases sorrow, lies in names being selected for the barracks which GIs call everything but home. Merciful Maggie, no! They wouldn't call those modified water strainers where they hoard their beer, home! Not a million discharges, which is years with gray beards.
Take barrack G-101 for example. The denizens dwelling there call their shack the "Dear John! Club," prompted no doubt by some of the members being jilted, definitely, by their Uncle Sugar girlfriends. And then barrack A-3, which has a tricky sign proclaiming it's the "Sad Sack Sanitarium."
Moving around a bit you discover another domain, building D-6, which is "Sleepy Lagoon Paradise," and directly underneath this sign some wag has posted a huge newspaper advertisement which states: "Girl wanted!"
Following these in quick succession as you wander around the area are barracks E-104 - "Hangover Haven," B-1 - "Ye Olde Termite Inn," H-102 - "No Point Villa?" and "Ye Olde Bloody Bucket" which is basha C-6.
This is just the beginning of the homey epithets nailed nonchalantly over the doorways. Because of many non-commissioned dogfaces residing in B-302 that job is named "Zebra Zoo," which is poetry yet. And at barrack U-308, which overlooks a pond outside the fence where Indians bathe, some humorist has tacked the inscription "Latrine View Hotel."
A few despondent men in E-301 call their basha the "Last Resort" and over at D-5, San Antonio, Texas is remembered by a barrack named the "T. C. Tavern (and nite club)."
Taverns seem fairly popular when the men pin a handle on their grottoes. Along that line is E-302, the "Village Inn" which boasts a nice blue archway from the sidewalk, D-101, the "Staggers Inn," C-101 which drips along thirstily as the "Guzzle Inn," B-3, the "Stumble Inn," D-102, "The Monsoon's Drip Inn," and building C-301, you'll have to visit yourself since ethics won't allow our printing it's unique title.
In rapid running order then comes the "Monsoon Hotel" which is building L-4, "Hotel Mark Hopkins" at B-14, "Ye Olde Plantation" at J-4, M-3 which
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Humor is indeed an American trademark. Give a Yank two planks to build a shelter and chances are he'll use the smaller for a roof and the bigger timber for a sign stating his hut is the Taj Mahal. And moreover he might be right for a laugh certainly fills in the air holes.
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Local Issue Party is ‘Wow’
BY TIGER RAG'S GATE-CRASHER Maintenance Local Issue held their second annual dinner dance last Saturday evening at the Monsoon Square Garden in Calcutta with scintillating music "star-dusted" by the 574th AAF Band. The party, under the genial supervision of M/Sgt. Robert F. Dyer, S/Sgt. Richard L. Reese, S/Sgt. Kenneth W. Speck and Sgt. Elwood Batton, was a gala affair with mountains of food delighting the gourmands and gallons of variegated mixed drinks which furnished the carbonation, color, and headaches - depending upon individual willpower. A smooth floor show was featured by the band during the evening. Feminine pulchritude formally attired for the occasion lifted many GI eyebrows and pulse beats before the festivities ended. The party, employing a descriptive one-syllable word, was a wow. |
With only three games left on the schedule the race for Depot Horseshoe Championship honors has turned into a two-team battle. The standings as of Wednesday morning showed the Devils in first place with a 6-1 record trailed by the Signal team which has a 4-1 record. The Devils are assured of at least a tie for the title as they have completed their schedule. The sportsmanship of the Ordnance team deserves high praise as they consented to play off a forfeited game with the Signal team. Ordnance had rambled through their first three matches without the loss of a game but stumbled when they met the top two teams by losing 8 out of the 10 games played. Their record is now 4-2. The sad Sacks sprung the big surprise of the week when they downed the Signal team in their match 3-2. The league ended Thursday. Final results will be published next week. |
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John DuFour came quietly into the barrack the other night, tip-toed down the row of beds. He undressed, hung his clothes up, lifted the net and sat down. The bed began to shake and there was a loud noise. DuFour stood up and took a good look at the bed. He had been sitting on Al Gentner. It sure is strange what a man's first night out with a woman will do... Visitors this week included Billy Anderson, Charlie Hegeman and Moe Better... A good topic for discussion at the next Monday night Bull and Education Session is "Who Gets the Ratings and Who Deserves Them"... A young and very fair member of the opposite sex asked me to mention Kelly and the banker's hours he keeps. But I haven't the heart to drag Joe through the mud any more.
Nomenclature: Dutch Schoenborn
Part No. 36176087
Specifications: 195 lbs., 6 feet tall, age 27, brown hair and blue eyes.
This is probably the way that Dutch would classify himself if human beings were listed in tech orders. Dutch works in Classification, is best known for his very straight hair that much prefers standing up, for his moustache, and his flashy drawers that he wears when he plays volleyball.
He was born and raised in Detroit. He attended high school there and followed this with two years at the Detroit Business University where he studied Business Administration and Stenotyping and earned the right to wear a BCS behind his name. Following the graduation, Dutch worked for the Cook Paint & Varnish Co. until that fateful day - at this point in the story he breaks into a torrent of unprintable words - March 17, 1942 when he was inducted.
Regarding his personal life, Dutch is reluctant almost to the point of silence so the period between his induction and his coming overseas in August 1944 is a blank. Sometime during that time, he began to cultivate the stubble on his lip and there are not a few women involved in more than one way. The details will probably go with him to the grave.
Boating, the legitimate theater, all sports and his moustache comprise his hobbies. He prefers to drink straight bourbon whiskey with water as a chaser. If he can't get that, he will turn to beer. He loves to eat and his favorite topics of conversation are (1) food (2) women.
He has very few violent likes or dislikes. but at times, he has shown a very hot temper especially when someone is singing "Great Speckled Bird" or "Wreck on the Highway." Try it and you'll see what I mean. - Pharo
Tennis Team Notches Third Win
FRIDAY, JULY 13TH - Tennis enthusiasts at the Monsoon Square Gardens in Calcutta Friday evening saw the Bengal Air Depot's team win its third consecutive match in the tourney by trouncing a strong 10th Weather team, two sets to one. BAD thus continues atop the "A" league.
John Reindel, after an extended lay off, took Dubeck of the Weathermen, by a 7-5, 8-6 score. Dubeck's youthful stamina drove Reindel hard before he bowed.
Joe Frame of the Depot's team lost a close match to Gross of Weather, 5-7, 7-5, 8-6. Gross' back court driving outweighed Frame's fore court smashes and gave him just the edge needed.
The rubber match found Bishop P. Holstein paired with Frame in a doubles set-to against Shaeffer and Bentley. BAD's victory was by a 6-2, 6-2 margin.
Officers Claim Brass Crown in Table Tennis
The BAD Officers' Table Tennis team made it eleven victories out of twelve starts last Thursday when they drubbed the officers of a nearby airstrip 7 to 2.
Hensel, Hutchinson, Hambley and Woolman of the Bengals took their singles handily while their teammates Tyhurst and Valcalda met unexpected defeat to make the score 4 to 2.
The Bengal team then had matters all their own to sweep the three doubles sets for the final 7 to 2 victory.
By virtue of this triumph, the BAD officers claim the officer's team championship of the theater. They will be willing to play any other officers team in defense of their title.
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Janice Ann Janning, the three year old daughter of Cpl. Walter Janning of 9th Engine Overhaul, was the winner of the Beehive's baby photo contest according to an announcement this week. Girls also copped other honors in spite of the fact that more pictures of baby boys were submitted. Harriet Jane Andrews, niece of Sgt. Thomas Andrews of the 48th Rep. Sqdn. was awarded second prize and the niece of Sgt. Paul Hollander, also of the 48th, received honorable mention.
Judging of the contest was performed by GIs, who sweated over the photos for hours before naming the winners. For two weeks preceding the contest all pictures were exhibited on the Beehive bulletin board.
Silver spoons engraved with a tiny map of India and the inscription "Baby of APO 492" have been sent by the Beehive to the two prize winning babies.
Fruit Juices Ration Free
Fruit juice of all varieties went on sale at the PX this week, ration free. This is said to be caused by a warehouse backlog on the item created by the unexpected arrival of a new supply and is by no means a permanent policy.
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So you've noticed those extra steaks, that roast beef, the tasty hamburgers, meat loafs, and meat balls that the mess sergeants been dishing out lately?
According to Sgt. Earl Herron of QM Subsistence it is due to an increase in the beef issue. Where before 52 pounds of fresh beef were issued per 100 men per day, it is now 70 pounds.
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ROVING REPORTER
With Germany out and the invasion forces drawing nearer and nearer Japan thoughts roll to the return to civilian life. The roving reporter asked GIs: "Do you think that you have learned anything in the army that will benefit you in the post war world?"
CPL. HARRISON NACE, REPAIRABLE, CLASS 13 - I think that the army has taught me a great deal about how to understand and handle men. It has also taught me how to take and carry out orders better than I ever dreamed I would as a civilian. As a result of traveling and association my outlook on life has been broadened immeasurably. PFC. VERNON GARCIA, ENGINEERING BRANCH - I am a radio man from way back. As a civilian I attended several radio schools but since entering the army I haven't seen anything but Air Corps Supply. This was a disappointment, but I guess learning a little about something else won't hurt any.
CPL. HARRY NICHOLSON, CONTROL SECTION - The most important thing I have learned in the service is the psychological aspects of dealing with all kinds of people both in a business and social way. Also, I have learned the Air Corps Supply business which should be of great value after the war. T/SGT. ROBERT HOLCOMB, RAIL TRANSPORTATION - Not too much. I've learned some about the handling and maintenance of heavy equipment and a few tricks about shipping that I don't know before, particularly how to get the most of box car space. I have also picked up a little knowledge about my fellow man while in the army.
PFC. CHARLES MILLER, INSPECTOR, ACS - Yes. T learned to fly an airplane. Also I have been through 22 weeks of intensified radio training which should be useful. And my wife will never have to worry about doing dishes when I marry because my great experience at KP will solve that problem. SGT. JOE FRAME. ENGINE SECTION - The main thing I have learned in the army is responsibility. Other than that I have learned how to operate practically all types of equipment and some about the various types of airplane engines. No fellow can be in the army any length of time and not learn something about human nature.
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Johnny Carlin At The Beehive Sgt. Johnny Carlin, at present making a tour of the theater, will entertain at 8 p.m. Thursday at the Beehive. Well known both as an accordionist and a pianist, Carlin will play both; to display the talent which earned his reputation in Shangri-La. Monday of this week, also at 8 p.m., Capt. John Murphy, Depot Legal Officer, will make a return appearance "strummin on his ole banjo." The GIs at the Shops have decided he knows what they want to hear. The usual monthly birthday party will be held Tuesday for the men whose birthdays fall in July. Phyllis Benthale will provide some unexpected treats. |
SHOW, BUFFET SUPPER PLEASES
Of crowd approbation is true censure one of the most distinctive and engrossing programs given on this Depot was presented Wednesday night when Rajah's Rest featured an Indian Boxing and Physical Coordination Show followed by a buffet supper.
Smooth-paced tumbling acts and feats of muscular control were interspersed with brief boxing exhibitions. Headlining the show however were the difficult acrobatic and tumbling acts performed.
In one instance when two tumblers were going through their difficult routine the lights were dimmed. One of the tumblers, securely blindfolded and seated atop the feet of a reclining aide, was given a flaming hoop. Using merely the bottom tumbler's legs as a springboard, the blindfolded Indian turned two complete loops in midair through the blazing hoop landing in his former position. Easy?... even a jumping bean wouldn't try that one.
Another exceptional display was witnessed when an Indian demonstrated his throat muscles. A ten foot length of bamboo was laid across his throat with three GIs on either side for demonstration purposes. At a signal the six men supported their weight, bending the bamboo almost double, while the Indian withstood the strain against his windpipe. (Even a hangman would shudder watching that trick.)
Bishnu Ghosh, who MC'd the show with a delightful humor, demonstrated Judo tactics as a finale until his assistant, who left various sections of hide embedded amid the concrete, gave the signal to desist. After which came the stampede for the food and coke awaiting for free on the counters.
The show, secured by Miss Helen Pyle of the ARC, consisted of students from Ghosh's College of Physical Education and members of the Bengal Boxing Association.
The Red Cross hostesses really deserve a "Sunday bow" for whipping together this ambitious presentation for it was unique, and, filling. Here 'tis... the bow!
New Asst. ARC Field Director
Latest attraction at the ARC field office is Marguerite "Mag" Waterhouse, here to replace Leonard Walker as assistant field director.
Miss Waterhouse, who comes from Beaufort, SC will look after military welfare, loans, and take care of GIs' personal problems. Although new to India, she has had some experience doing this work up country and has had three years of the same at Parris Island, which according to her is "one tough marine base with no punches ever pulled."
Marguerite will introduce a new routine in visiting the sickbay at the Depot and looking after the requirements of the ailers.
A graduate of Hollins College in Virginia, her civilian work as a sociologist was with the Children Service Bureau of Charlotte, NC until the "do your bit to help the war effort" urge came on.
Mr. Walker is leaving for Calcutta for additional responsibilities but if he has his way he will be China bound in no time at all.
Unacquainted Cousins Meet Here
It took a worldwide war and a trip of close to 15,000 miles to this Depot to bring together two cousins who did not know the other existed.
One of the cousins is S/Sgt. Jack Friedman of 9th Engine Overhaul Sqdn. who hails from New York City. The other is T/5 Ben Bronstine of the 923rd Signal Co., coming from Denver, Colo.
Ben claims he never knew Jack existed until after his arrival here. He wrote to an elderly relative who told him of the relationship and proximity of Jack.
"Then we found we had been stationed at the same time at Shepherd Field, Texas. Moreover, both of us were taking Army courses in New York City together. Talk about coincidences."
THE TIGER RAG is a weekly publication edited and written by and for the Enlisted Personnel and Officers of APO 492, and is under the direction of the Commanding Officer, COLONEL FRANK D. HACKETT and Public Relations Officer, MAJOR STUART R. PETERSEN. STAFF: EDITOR... Pfc. Hollis H. Estill; ASSISTANT EDITOR... Pfc. Art Goldberg; ART... T/5 Layton H. Wicksten; PHOTOGRAPHY... Sgt. Les Gurwitz. Statements or policies reflected through the columns of this publication under no circumstances are to be considered those of the United States Army. Articles submitted by Officers and Enlisted Men represent personal opinions only. Internet adaptation by Carl W. Weidenburner.
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