In remembrance of the women who served in the US Women's army Corps 14th WAC Army band, women of the 400th, 401st, 402nd,
403rd and 404th world war ll bands who paved the way. Thank you for your service and dedication You will be missed. It was
an honor serving with all of you that I knew.
AMAZING GRACE
Performed
by
US
Navy band
Patriotic Salute to the Military Family Album
The Precious gift
One gift, above all others
God gives to us to treasure
One that knows no time, no place
And one gold cannot measure
The precuous, poignant, tender gift
of
memory-- that will keep
our dear ones ever in our hearts.
Although God gives them sleep
It brings back long remembered
things
a
song, a word, a smile
and our world's a better place
Because we had them for a while
COMMANDER …….REPORTING IN AS DIRECTED
***********************************************************************************
2020
Shelia Marsh McRoberts- Hutex
14 Sept 1945- 7 May 2020
Wac Band 1963-1968
Clarinet player
Shelia Marsh Hutek, 74, a resident of Clearwater, FL (formerly of Midland), passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2020. A memorial
service and interment will be held at a later date.
Shelia was born on September 14, 1945, in Midland Township, the daughter of Clarence and Rozannah (Holey) McRoberts. She
graduated from Midland Public Schools and proudly served in the Women;s Army Corps (WAC) Band during the Vietnam War from
1963-1968.
After attending Jacksonville State University in Alabama and Delta College in Saginaw, Michigan, Shelia graduated with
honors from Saginaw Valley State University with a BA in English and Music Ed in 1976. She enjoyed teaching special needs
and music for many years in both Michigan and Florida.
Shelia will be remembered for her love of music and interest in genealogy. Some of her notable highlights: co-wrote Saginaw
Valley State Universitys alma mater, owned/conducted the Summit Orchestra in Largo, FL; published a group of family poemss
Still Playing His Guitar wrote music for several original works written by her brother (Richard), arranged musical programs
for local retirement homes, and supported other civic organizations in Clearwater, FL.
shelia leaves behind one son, Derrick, of Clearwater, FL; sisters: Myrtle (Larry) Kennedy, Ellen D. Miller of Midland,
and Carol (John) Cottenham of Gladwin; brothers: Donald (Karen) of Brighton, David L. (Linda), Jerry R. (Angela) McRoberts,
and James A. McRoberts of Midland; and many nieces and nephews.
Shelia was preceded in death by her father, Clarence L. Marsh McRoberts and mother, Rozannah Holey; brothers Clarence
Junior, Richard, and William (Bill); and sister Jane Crawford.
In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Salvation Army.
*****************************************************************************
Elizabeth "Betty" Page Rice
1943-2020
French horn 1969- 1970's
Elizabeth J. Page (Rice), the only daughter of Tom and Fern Rice, was born in Seattle, Washington on July 10, 1943. At a young
age Betty, as she preferred to be called, discovered a life force in Music.
While a teenager she developed playing and performing as a pianist. After graduating High School she briefly attended
the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music.
In the early 1960s she enlisted in the Woman;s Army Corps and served as a member of the WAC Band at Ft. McClellan, Alabama.
She has been a member of several church choirs and also a member of the Brevard Community Chorus. Her work career consisted
of being a secretary; first at the Pentagon and years later for the IRS in Oklahoma City.
She enjoyed talking with people. During her seventy-six years of life she has touched the ears and hearts of many. She
is survived by: a husband William, a son Michael, a daughter-in-law Carla, and five grandchildren — Danielle, Kyle,
CJ, Hailee, and Clifton
*****************************************************************************
SFC Karen Syverson
1 Nov 1946- 4 Jun 2020
In Memory Of Karen
https://ninekatztwodogs.tripod.com/id185.html
VETERAN ARMY
SFC Karen Ilene Syverson {Ret} passed away at her home in Madison, WI, on Thursday, June 4, 2020. Karen led a full life
and will be missed by so very many friends and loved ones from across the country. She was born on November 1, 1946, in the
house where her life ended on June 4th this year.
She experienced her primary and high school years in Wisconsin, Texas, and Arkansas and graduated from Lake Hamilton High
School in Hot Springs, Arkansas. After graduation, Karen played guitar and bass with several groups in Hot Springs Arkansas
and attended Little Rock University.
She returned to Madison and attended the University of Wisconsin. In 1973 Karen joined the United States Army and completed
her Basic Training at Ft. McClellan, Alabama. She was then assigned to the 14th Army Womens Army Corps Band, the only all-female
band in the U.S.Army, earning a MOS in both guitar and French horn. When on parade, the Corps marched to the beat of Karen's
bass drum.
Although she was assigned to other posts during her Army career and was awarded an M-16 Sharpshooter badge and an Expert
.45 Caliber badge, her love of and allegiance to the Womens Army Corps Band was of the highest degree. Karen was co-founder
and organizer of the WAC Band Reunions that began in 2004 and have occurred bi-annually since.
Karen participated in these reunions as an announcer, creator of the special music to open the concert, driver of the
equipment truck, leader of the dance band, maintained the database for the roster, and so much more. Karen provided the lifeblood
for these reunions that she so loved.
After retiring from the Army in 1993, Karen moved to Weaver, AL, and utilized another of her many talents. She drove an
18-wheel big rig truck for C&W Transport, Alabama, until she retired in 2005 to return to Madison to care for her aging
mother. Once she was settled in Madison, Karen joined the Ladies Must Swing Band, a 19-piece all-female jazz band specializing
in WWII era music as a guitarist. Playing with these ladies helped fulfill her life-long desire of "making music with
my friends." In recent years Karen and her partner, Jan Larson, joined the Dimensions In Sound Studio Orchestra playing
French horn and flute, respectively. She entered this endeavor as she did everything with great enthusiasm and energy, and
it brought her great happiness.
Karen was preceded in death by her father, Alfred John Syverson; her mother, Roberta ({Bobye} Brinkley Syverson; and younger
sister Christine D. Syverson. She is survived by her partner, Jan Larson of Madison; one younger sister, Janene Kassaw; brother-in-law
Marshall Kassaw; 2 nephews, Derek Johnson and Marshall Douglas (Doc) Kassaw; grandnephew, Peyton; and grandnieces, Kayla and
Olivia. Graveside services will be held at Forest Hills Cemetery, Veteran's Section, on Friday, June 12, at 10:00 a.m. For
Karen, it was always all about the music. Cress Funeral & Cremation Services 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434 Please
share memories at www.cressfuneralser vice.
Obituary written by Jan Larson
**************************************************************************
2019
Mary A. Scharr
1939-2019
14th ARMY WAC BAND Clarinet
player
1960- 1962
Mary Schnarr, age 80, of Clear Lake, South Dakota passed away on Monday, December 30, 2019 at the Deuel County Good Samaritan
Society in Clear Lake. Funeral Service will 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Deuel Country Good Samaritan Society
Chapel. Burial will be at the Toronto City Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the Chapel.
The Houseman Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.
Mary Anna Emma Schnarr was born on September 12, 1939 to Emma (Grohman) and Ernst Schnarr Sr. in Mitchell, SD. Mary went
to school in Madison for seven years until they moved to Brandt. Mary joined the National Guard in 1959 in Clear Lake. She
had numerous jobs throughout her life. Her most meaningful job was working at the VA helping fellow veterans. Mary was there
until she retired. Mary had many musical talents like, playing the piano, clarinet and accordion. She played quite often for
the Good Samaritan residents.
Mary was united in marriage to Melvin Frost and to this union came a baby, Lena Frost, who was stillborn in 1963.
Mary is survived by her brother, Ernst Schnarr Jr. of Canby, MN; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her infant daughter, Lena; and her parents, Ernst and Emma Schnarr.
******************************************************************************
EVA JO SEVER
2019
WAC BAND 1954-1956
FRENCH HORN- DRUM MAJOR- VOCALS
Eva Jo Severs, the daughter of Lewis Sever and Leova Stirman, was born in Tulsa OK 8 April 1927. She was the sister of Charles
and Melvin. Eva joined the Womens Army corps and a member of the 1950's 14th WAC Army Band.
She played the French horn, and was a drum major and also vocals from 1954- 1956. She served 12 years in the US WAC.
Jo played semi pro softball and was a wicked pitcher that no one wanted to face. She went to OCS afer leaving the Band..
She went to France before finally getting out. After leaving the Band, she moved to southern California and became quite an
accomplished physical therapist. After retiring, she moved to northern California.
*******************************************************************************************
GYL
WILLIAMS HOLLAND
AUG 2019
SAXOPHONE PLAYER
1964-1965
*********************************************************************************************
LUTHELLA BUCKLEY CLINTON
20 Nov 1935- 10 Jun 2019 Clarinet
player 1955-1957 WAC BAND
Luthella Clinton, 83, of Ironton, Ohio, passed away Monday, June 10, 2019, at her residence. Mrs. Clinton was born November
20, 1935, in Pikeville, Kentucky, a daughter to the late John K. and Ella (Gillium) Buckley. She was also preceded in death
by her husband Wayne Thomas Clinton, whom she married August 10, 1957.
Mrs. Clinton was a 1954 graduate of South Point High School and was a U.S. Army Veteran. She went on to work for the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, retiring in 1995; after 27 plus years of service. She was a fellow with Society of American Engineers
and was of the catholic faith and a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ironton.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by daughter: Kathryn Whitt; sister, Margarette Tinkham;
brother, James Buckley
She is survived by daughter Luanne Burgbacher of Franklin Furnace, Ohio; son, Christopher Clinton of Ashland, Kentucky;
four grandchildren: Kristina, December, Shawn and Brandon; five great grandchildren: Jaycob, Aidryan, Bryce, Kathron and Ren
and sister: Pattie Gibson
Graveside service will be 1:00 PM, Thursday, June 13,2019 at Calvary Cemetery, with Father Huffman officiating. There
will be visitation from 11:45 AM until 12:45 PM at Tracy Brammer-Monroe Funeral Home, 518 South 6th Street Ironton, Ohio and
Phillips Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. To offer condolences to the Clinton family, please visit:
www.phillipsfuneralhome.net. In lieu of flowers the family requests donation to be made to American Cancer Society 611 7th
Ave. #101 in Huntington, WV 25701.
|
1950'S WAC BAND 2008 REUNION |
*********************************************************************************************
COL ARLENE GERTRUDE BURBANK 8
Mar 1933- 19 Apr 2019
HONORARY WAC BAND MEMBER
COL Arleen Burbank, the daughter of COL William Lloyd Burbank, US Army Ret and Odette Ferrandou Burbank and sister of William
Lloyd Burbank Jr. COL Burbank, She joined the Army 6 Sept 1959 and served at Ft. McClellan Al, home of the Women's Army
Corps. She attended the US Army Command School graduated in 1971. .
Her military awards were the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (4), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation
Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea Service), National Defense SM w/Bronze Star (second award. One of her assignments
was Secretary to the Chief of Staff of the Army so she has a Pentagon badge.
COL Burbank received her degree . BS University of AL 1955), entered service from Florida June 1959 and WAC Officer
Basic Course 1960. She became the Battalion Commander of the 2nd WAC basic Training Bn. She retired in Oct. 1985 as colonel
(O-6).
The 14th Women's Army Corp Band has lost one of it's strongest supporters. . She helped the band during reunions in any
way she could, to include helping run the sign-in table at the reunions, and after she was unable to help load she took over
running the lift-gate for the truck because it was something she could still do to help. Affectionately know as TC, short
for The Colonel, she agreed to have a nickname since most of us couldn't bring ourselves to call her Arlene. Her love of the
Band was unbelievable and we will miss her deeply.
COL Burbank will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery VA, both her parents are there.
********************************************************************************************
DELLA COATES TUGGLE
1951- 2019
Saxophone player WAC BAND
1971- 1975
Della M Tuggle, age 67, of Morris, Alabama passed away on Wednesday April 17, 2019. Della was born June 18, 1951 to Evelyn
Walters Coates and Carl Coates.
Della graduated from Janesville High School, Iowa; served in the US Army and was a member of the Women's Army Corps Band
from 1971 until 1975. She graduated from Jacksonville State University and retired from the US Postal Service. She enjoyed
traveling and spending time with her sisters.
Della is survived by; step-daughter Sheila Payne (Greg); four sisters Janet Hansen, Shirley Austin, Barbara Tatum and
Linda Brandos (David); nieces, nephews, cousins, her beloved fur babies, Pete, Bella, and Jack as well as a host of friends
many whom she considered her Alabama family.
Della was preceded in death by her loving husband of 37 years, Ellis Wayne Tuggle; father Carl Coates and mother Evelyn
Walters Coates.
Celebration of life services for Della will be held Monday, April 22, 2019 at Providence United Methodist Church, 7300
Providence Church Road, Morris, AL 35116, with a time of visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM; funeral service at 11:00 AM,
followed by her burial in the cemetery adjacent to the Church.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsgardendalechapel.com for the Tuggle family.
Carl Coates, Father, Evelyn Walters Coates, Mother
Ellis Wayne Tuggle, Spouse, Sheila Payne (Greg), Daughter,Shirley Austin, Sister Barbara Tatum, Sister, Linda Brandos
(David), Sister
friends many whom she considered her Alabama family.
DONATIONS Wounded Warriors To any Animal Shelter of your choice.
TAPS PERFORMED BY ANNIE INGRAM
This lady who is truly a gift to service
to our nation. Ann played a soulful taps today for Della's funeral. Thank you Ann. From Helen Gillespie
and the WAC BAND
2018 WAC BAND REUNION
*********************************************************************************************
1SG
MARY MARGARET GOULET
1933-2019
WAC Band 1952- 1963
Saxophone player
1SG Mary Margaret Goulet was born in Escanaba Michigan 30 June 1933. The daughter of Jessie J. and Helen Hendricksen Goulet
and sister of John and Rosella. She attended Escanaba high school, played in the band , as a tenor saxophone player. She
graduated in 1951.
In January 1952 Mary enlisted in the US Women's army corps, completed her basic training at Ft Lee VA and joined the
US 14th Army Wac Band as a saxophone player and bass drummer.
Mary's father, a veteran, served in the Army 1918-1919 and her brother John served in the USNR.
In 1953 Mary appeared with the 14th Wac Band in the movie 'Never Wave at a Wac" that was playing at the Delft theater
at Ft Lee. She was promoted to PFC Private First Class. In 1961 now a SGT , participated with other members of the Wac
Band in the Inaugural parade in Washing DC for John F. Kennedy.
Mary re-enlisted in 1963 for another three years with the army. In 1969 Mary now a SFC, was assigned to the Army Air
Defense Command HQ, Office of the deputy chief of staff for operations. Prior to that assignment she served as the Air Defense
fire distribution crewman with the 197th Arty group Los Angeles California. She was awarded the Army Commendation medal for
that duty.
In 1969 Mary was also promoted to First Sgt at the Army Air Defence ENT airforce base in Colorado (Maj Gen Ezal Girard
Ent).
Mary was a member the WAC Chapter 75 in Colorado Springs.
Lee, Terry, Deb, Linda, Darlene, attending Mary Goulet's Memorial Service. There was standing room only. It was really nice
listening to stories folks related about her. There was even a gentleman who played...the saxophone. Mary has been cremated
and is on her way to her brother-in-law's, her closest relative, in WI. At some point, Mary's nephew will take her ashes to
Upper Peninsula MI, where they will be scattered at the cabin
***********************************************************************************************
Jb Bodner The magic baton is forever silent on Earth ... There is no more of "making a joyful noise" ... Mona now
resides where the tempo is perfect, the count is perfect, the sound reveals the musical markings are followed perfectly, the
cut-offs are perfect, no smoke breaks for ladies to review, review, review ... In Hallelujah Square, all is perfect for Eternity
& everyone, male & female, follows the Golden Baton with perfection, Mona is happy, ALL is well ... Sad for our loss,
grateful that we knew & served with her as earthling musicians she could help
MSG RAMONA MELTZ 18 Apr 1931-
7 Jan 2019
undefined |
|
RAMONA MELTZ |
Ramona Jane Meltz
She was born in Appleton Wisconsin 18 Apr 1931, the daughter of Orville Meltz and Marie Van Landfren. She graduated from
Appleton High School in 1949 and enlisted in the Women's Army Corps, July 1949. following basic training at Ft Lee VA, she
became the 16th member of the 14th Women's Army Corp Band at Ft Lee VA. During the next three years, she served in both the
Marching band and dance band while stationed at the Training Center Ft Lee VA.
In 1952 MSG Meltz decided the army and music was not for her and left the service, she joined the Army Reserves and kept
her army rank. While the time she was out of the service, she attended college using her GI bill and tried different types
of work.She attended the Appleton school of business and Lawrence College conservatory of music.
Her love of music, brought her back to her home town of Appleton Wisconsin and she joined the jimmy james orchestra,
she was the only female member of the group.
She wanted to stay in the music life, but also found a void in her life and career. She re-enlisted in the army and once
again became a member the 14th Women's Army Corps band in 1955. This time to the new home for the
Women's Army Corps Training Center and the WAC band now called Ft McClellan in Anniston Alabama.
MSG Meltz was selected to be the conductor of WAC band and leader of the dance band. She was promoted to the rank of SGT.
She said her success as a director was being able to communicate her thoughts and feelings to members of the band. A public
concert at Ft McClellan was the high point of her life.
MSG Meltz got her musical talent from her father Orville. He taught her how to play the saxophone and clarinet, when
she was 10 years old He also was a accomplish musician, played saxophone and a meticulous arranger of music. For many years
he played with well known orchestras such as Harold Manning, Tony Winters, Tom Temple and Lawrence Duchow. Her father encouraged
her to use her musical talents.
MSG Meltz was promoted to SFC (sgt first class) and the 3rd enlisted woman to attain this rank since the WAC band was
established in 1942. She was awarded the Army Commendation medal, presented by the WAC Center commander LT COL-Elizabeth
Hoisington for exceptional leadership, Outstanding performance, knowledge and initiative.
MSG Meltz would later go on to receive the Legion of Merrit Medal, Army achievement Medal, another Army commendation
medal, the Army Good conduct medal 7th award and the National Defense medal. She was selected for SGM ( Sgt Major) but choose
to retire in 1973.
MSG Meltz is pre-deceased by her parents, Father Orville 1994, her mother Marie in 2000 and a sister JoAnn in 2018. Special
thank you to the THEDACARE REGIONAL CENTER in Appleton for the care of our friend and fellow WAC Veteran during her final
hours. Special thank you to Bob Archer and Karen Nichol who stood by her side until she was ready to go and be with her angel
band.
|
Ramona Meltz 1949 HS photo |
In honor of the passing of Retired Master Sergeant Ramona J. Meltz, 14th Army Band (WAC) l949-l973, the flag was taken to
half staff at sunset last night where it will remain for three days in Laporte, Colorado. RIP Mona.
Pauline Keehn, WAC Band
This morning this fantastic woman passed peacefully from this earth. She was my first leader and mentor! When I was assigned
to the WAC Band, she was the musical director and none finer has ever graced the band field since her.
She was also the first woman I had ever had any contact with that was anything but simply a player of music. MSG Ramona
Meltz did it all. Play, compose, direct, teach, and guide in the intricacies that are the earmarks of a thoroughly gifted
and talented musician.
Much of what I did in my military career was based on her musicianship, actions, and leadership. The woman terrified me
and to this day I will never forget her standing in front of us telling us to play until our ovaries hung out.
She could pull things musically out of you that you didn't even know you possessed, but she always got us to produce at
our very best. Under her direction, the WAC Band was the premier band of the Army and had a reputation that couldn't be touched
by any male band, to include the special bands. She was that good in what she did. To this day I tell everyone that I have
never served with any musical organization that could touch the musicality of the WAC Band and that was due to her. Her passing
is a great loss to the musical mortal world, but I know that in heaven they are welcoming her with open arms and telling her,
Mona join us, mold us, live in the music. Rest in peace my noble leader and know that you will be sorely missed by not just
me but every woman who ever served under your leadership and tutelage!
*********************************************************************************************
2018
|
MARY LU LEON |
Mary Lu Leon, born in Fresno, California, passed away at Brookdale Assisted Living at age 83 in San Pablo, California, where
she had been residing since January 27, 2018.
As a California resident for most of her life, Mary Lu lived her first seven years on a farm in Orange Cove with a large,
loving, boisterous Lebanese family. About two dozen Arab families had settled in "Section 10" and she was surrounded
by uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. She moved with her parents to Oakland in 1941. For the next ten years, she went to
school and formed enduring friendships. With her friends Marilyn, Elinor, Janet, Roy, George and Joanne she formed a teenage
show troupe and won a government contract to perform at the many military bases in the area. She enlisted in the Army in 1954
and played clarinet in the WAC band at Ft McClellan in Alabama; she took military flights everywhere in the United States;
she earned a BA in Liberal Arts in 1959, an MA in English as a Foreign Language and a teaching credential in 1972 from San
Francisco State University; she worked one summer at Yosemite National Park, beginning a life-long love for and involvement
with the valley and the High Sierra; she married (twice) and had three children whom she loved devotedly: Sherri, Roger, and
Kamala. She had one grand-son, Nicholas, and one great grandchild, Madelyn, whom she also adored. She taught high school English
in Carmichael, Grass Valley, Hayward, San Francisco, San Mateo, Burlingame and Bakersfield and ESL to adults at Heald Business
College in San Jose. International and domestic travel also occupied a good part of her life – starting in 1965,
she traveled to Iran; thereafter, she and her daughter Kamala spent time in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Greece, Italy,
England and France.
A published writer, she sold her first short story at age 29: "A Game of Chess", and embarked upon a continuous
hobby of writing. She frequently contributed to "Guideposts" Magazine, with essays, stories, and jokes published
in "Cosmopolitan", "Family Digest" and the "Saturday Evening Post". 2010 saw the publication
of her first book, "Something to Love".
Mary Lu moved to Grass Valley in June, 1998, and thoroughly loved the area, delighting in the South Yuba River and the
surrounding Sierra Foothills—she had taught at Nevada Union High School from 1960-61,found the community to be a
delightful place, and always targeted retiring there after many wonderful years in San Francisco, San Leandro, and Oakland.
She was a consummate chess player and managed over the past fifty years to find several diverse partners. The Senior Center
in Grass Valley provided a place on Tuesday afternoons for her and other dedicated chess players. Although it would be easy
to name Mary Lu's favorite movies: "Lawrence of Arabia", "Dr. Zhivago", and "Fanny", and her
favorite foods: kibbeh, Arabic dolmas and Cirino's artichoke dip, it would be impossible to name her favorite family member
or friend: there was more than enough love for all.
Mary Lu is survived by her three children: Sherri, Roger and Kamala, her grandson Nicholas and great grand-daughter Madelyn.
A liturgy in her honor will take place June 15 at the 8:30 a.m. Mass of the Divine Savior Catholic Church at 9079 Greenback
Lane, Orangevale, California.
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2017
SSG LISA STEARNS
Lisa Stearns, 63, of Hot Springs formally of Moulton, Alabama passed away, Saturday, November 11, 2017. She was born October
4, 1954 in Dubuque, Iowa to the late Neale & Laura McCray Werner. She was retired with 35 years in the United States Army
and was of Catholic faith.
She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Fred Stearns; two brothers, Erick Werner, Tim Werner and her beloved dogs.
Survivors include her sister, Chris (Danny) Frazier; brothers, Nick Jessica) Werner, Tony (Val) Werner; sister-in-law, Josephine
Torisi and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was proud of her country and serving in the US Army.
A special thank you to all her dear friends in Alabama for your love and friendship, and Country Club Village & Dierksen
Hospice.
She will be buried with her husband at the National Cemetery in Nashville, TN. Service to be announced.
Obit source- Hot springs funeral home.
Lisa graduated from Madison West High School. She attended Columbus State University in GA, graduated with a BA Arts degree
in 1989. Former Military Tech. Civil Service, 313th Army Reserves band in Birmingham AL. She joined the 14th Women's Army
Corps band in1972-1974 . Percussionist.
she married Frederick Arthur Stearns 31 Aug 1985 in Dane Wisconsin. He was a SGM in the US Army and he passed away 5 Nov
1989. Lisa will be buried with him at the Nashville National cemetery TN.
In 1974-1976, She was assigned to the 1st Army Division band in Germany. Returning to the states, she was assigned to
the 9th Infantry Divison band Ft Lewis Washington State 1976- 1978 . Another overseas tour took her back to Germany again
in 1978- 1982 with the 33rd USAEUR band in Heidelberg Germany. Returning to the states, she was assigned to the 132nd army
national guard band in Wisconsin 1982-1984 and finally the 313th Army Reserve band in Birmingham AL
14TH Women's Army Corps Band
Ft McClellan AL
1972-1974
1st Army Division Band Ansbach
Germany 1974- 1976
9th Infantry Division Band
Ft Lewis WA
1976- 1978
33rd USAEUR Army Band
Heidelberg Germany
1978- 1982
132nd Army National Guard Band Wisconsin 1982-1984
313th Army Reserve Band
Birmingham AL
***********************************************************************************************
SPEC 4 Barbara Jean Spears Martorell
6 Apr 1949- 17 Apr 2017
**********************************************************************************************
JANICE KRUSE PLEDGER 26 Oct
1937- 12 July 2017
US 14th Army WAC BAND
A memorial service to celebrate Janice Pledger's life will be held on Sunday, July 16 at Lord of Life Lutheran Church at 13724
W. Meeker Blvd, Sun City West, AZ at 2 pm.
Janice Pledger (nee Krause) of Sun City, Arizona, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2017 surrounded by her family and
loving husband. Janice was born on October 26, 1937 in Milwaukee, WI. She was proud to have been a member of the 14th Army
WAC Band based out of Fort McClellan, AL where she made many lifelong friends. Janice was one of the first two women to attend
engineering school at Fort Belvoir, VA. While serving in the Army, she met her husband Carl, whom she married in 1960. They
traveled the country, eventually residing in Arizona.
Janice was always a fighter, overcoming many obstacles including proudly surviving breast cancer twice. She went on to
help other women through her long time participation in multiple support groups.
Janice was preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Alice Krause, her sisters Diane Krause and Lila Dorn, and her brother,
Gene Krause. She is survived by her beloved husband Carl, her sister Donna (Jim) Hensch, her brother in law Donald (Peggy)
Pledger, her sister in law Roberta Pledger as well as many nieces and nephews.
**********************************************************************************************
2016
MSG Jeanette "JAY" Beard
27 Oct 1942- 27 Oct 2016
Jeanette C. Beard, native of Fernandina Beach, passed away Thursday, Oct. 27, 2016, at Haven Hospice in Orange Park after
a lengthy battle with cancer, surrounded by her family. Jeanette, born in Jacksonville on Oct. 27, 1942, is the daughter of
the late James A. and Doris M. Beard.
After graduating from Fernandina Beach High School, Jeanette spent a year studying at the St. Vincent’s School
of Nursing. She read that the Army needed women to train and work as nurses. It was 1961; she enlisted in the Army. During
basic training, a call was issued for anyone who had ever played an instrument to come forward to audition for the Women’s
Army Corps Band. With her training in music, playing the flute and piccolo (under the tutorage of Bud Hill, band director,
Fernandina Beach Junior and Senior high schools), Jeanette had to show them what she could do. Suddenly, she was no longer
a nurse in training, but a member of the (WAC) United States Women’s Army Corps Band.
Jeanette attended and graduated from the Little Creek School of Music located near Norfolk, Va.
The WAC Band marched and played for every graduation and special event taking place at Fort McClellan, Ala. The band had
the opportunity to march in JFK’s inaugural parade, the Rose Bowl Parade and traveled extensively throughout the
nation.
In 1973, Jeanette was assigned to the United States Armed Forces Ground Command Band, Fort McPherson, Ga., where she remained
until her retirement in 1985. She retired with the rank of master sergeant and was only 42.
Jeanette;s love and compassion for abandoned, hurt and neglected dogs sent her to school to train as a pet groomer. She
eventually had a wonderful thriving business using that passion and skill in grooming, adopting and fostering hundreds of
dogs over the years.
Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents, James and Doris Beard; a brother, Jim Beard; and nephews, David Beard and
Jim Brunner.
She is survived by a brother, Jerry Beard (Joyce) of White House, Tenn.; two sisters, Marla Vondane, (James) of Fernandina
Beach and Brenda Brunner of Orange Park; nieces, Laura Brunner, Wendy McGaskey (Oscar) and Bethany Tay (Jeff); and nephews,
Jason Douglas and Jeffrey Smith.
A memorial service will be held in the Burgess Chapel at the Oxley-Heard Funeral Home on Thursday, Nov. 3, at 1:30 p.m.
Family visitation will be from 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Obit written by Brenda, jay's loving sister
**************************************************************************************************
|
CW4 VIC OWEN |
CW4 VICTOR OWENS
BAND MASTER 14TH WOMEN'S ARMY CORP BAND
COMPANY COMMANDER
FT McCLELLAN ALABAMA
From the family of CW4(Ret) Vic Owens:
Victor Frederick Owens
Today, after 80 years my dad died. Born in Henderson, North Carolina he spent the rest of his life traveling the world.
In his 30 plus years in the Army, he had assignments in just about every continent and nearly every Army post in the United
States. An Army band director, his early life revolved around concerts, parades, rehearsals, and music in general. He was
a gifted musician who started out as a tuba player and he enjoyed showing off his skills with nearly every instrument. Following
his retirement from the military, he focused the rest of his life on a vain attempt to straighten out his golf swing with
specific focus on his “duck hook.” An avid bowler he would leave the golf courses of the world and find
a bowling alley in a valiant effort to achieve a perfect 300 or a high series.
He was the last surviving child of Samuel and Elizabeth Owens and was preceded in death by his brothers Riley, Richard
and Franklin and his sisters Alice and Cleo. He leaves behind his wife Shelly, ex-wife Maureen, and my mom, Mary. In addition,
he says goodbye to his only son Donald, his beautiful wife Jenny, nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren with number
seven on the way.
Dad you lived a long and eventful life full of music, history, and travel. Many of your former bandsmen and fellow Soldiers
have told me you touched their lives in a positive and enduring manner. I admire that because it shows that you cared for
their welfare and helped them whenever you could. For me, I will miss our weekly chats but I will relish the time you spent
with me here in Kentucky and your presence in my life. I am proud to be your son and I love you. Farewell dad.
Donald K. Owens
*************************************************************************************************
2015
|
Photo: Sandy Brown |
1SG Helen Marie Kolp
12 Jan 1923- 17 Dec 2015
1SG 14th ARMY WAC BAND
Ft McClellan AL
Published in The Repository on Dec. 20, 2015
Helen Marie Kolp
age 92, died peacefully at the Compassionate Care Center on Dec. 17, 2015. She was the daughter of the late Leo and Matilda
Zimmer Kolp and a life resident of North Canton. She graduated from St Paul Grade School and North Canton High School in 1941.
Helen was a US Army veteran having served during World War II in France and Germany retiring with the rank of First Sergeant.
She worked at the Hoover Company and retired from the North Canton Police Department after 21 years as Chief Dispatcher.
She was a member of St Paul Catholic Church, North Canton, St Paul's Women's Guild, charter member of Women's War Memorial
in Washington DC, Massillon American Legion Post 221, W.A.C. Museum in Fort Lee, Virginia, and the Retired Enlisted Association.
Preceded in death by a sister, Virginia Rufenacht, and brothers, Robert H Kolp and Walter L Kolp. She is survived by a
sister, Norma J Hardgrove, and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff and Helen's friends from The Canton Regency who became part of her extended family.
Their care and concern during her five years with them is greatly appreciated. Many thanks to Dr. John Sutton and staff for
the wonderful care provided over the last 19 years. The family would also like to express their gratitude to the doctors and
staff of the Aultman Compassionate Care Center for their kindness and comfort during her illness.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2015, at 10 a.m. in St Paul Catholic Church (North Canton) with Fr.
Daniel Finnerty and Fr. James Kolp as con-celebrants. Burial with military honors will be in Calvary Cemetery. Friends may
call Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, from 6-8 p.m. at the Lamiell Funeral Home
SFC KAREN SYVERSON
Ladies, God must have decided that too many Band sisters were showing up and it was getting out of hand. Knowing Pat Browning
deserved a break, He called 1SG Helen Kolp. She reported in on 17 December 2015 to straighten it out. If Kolpie wasn't your
First Sergeant, then I'll bet she was the 1SG of whomever you had for a 1SG. Most of us knew her, if only by name. RIP 1SG.
You played a really good gig.
CANTONREP.COM Article by Gary Brown
Posted Sep. 14, 2013 at 12:01 AM
The door of Helen Kolps independent living apartment at the Canton Regency in Jackson Township is decorated with two small
flags and red-white-and-blue ribbon. I Salute Military Women is displayed at the entry way.
I got my 20 years in, said Kolp, who served during and after World War II in the Womens Army Corps (WAC).
Kolp was stationed in the United States until she became part of the Army of Occupation in Europe following Victory in
Europe (V-E) Day.
I was on Times Square (in New York City) on V-E Day, she recalled. It was quite a celebration. I remember that everybody
was everyones friend. They didn't care who you were, theyd kiss you. And we were young.
JOINING THE CORPS
Kolp was too young to join the WAC when she graduated from North Canton High School in 1941. So, she attended Kent State
Universitys Stark County branch at McKinley High School for a quarter until the bombing of Pearl Harbor heightened her interest
in helping with the war effort.
At that time, you had to be 20 to enlist with your parents consent and 21 without it, and I wasnt, she said. ;So I went
to the Hoover Co. and inspected parts for the (weapon) fuses they were making there until I was old enough.
In 1943, she became one of the WACs and was trained for service in the United States. Stationed near New York City, she
drove trucks that took replacements for soldiers overseas to the docks and returned to camp with soldiers that ships brought
back from overseas.
I remember one guy who saw me said, I got through the war and I come back to a woman driver .
Kolp also served as supply sergeant for her WAC detachment before it was shipped to Europe. In France and Germany. she
was stationed overseas for five years the WACs processed the paperwork for servicemen who were returning home, as well as
the war brides they wanted to accompany them.
We kept the women in one building and we put the men in the hangers, she remembered. We had a hard time keeping the women
in the building and a hard time keeping the men from coming into the building.
While Kolp served as a sergeant major at the Dependents Staging Area in Bremerhaven, Germany, she also was a player on
a WAC basketball team that won the 1948 European WAC Championship.
We werent supposed to win,; she said, but her last-second shot assured victory in the championship contest.
After returning to the United States, she completed training in advanced army administration early in the 1950s. Kolp
put that organizational ability to work as a 1st sergeant in the 14th Army WAC Band at Fort Lee in Virginia from 1954 to 1961
and then at the WAC Training Battalion at Fort McClellan in Alabama.
************************************************************************************************************************
LTC Alice Peters
1923-2015
Lt. Col. Alice V. Peters, U.S. Army (Ret.), 91, a Coal Grove, Ohio native passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2015 at Kingsbrook
Life Care Center, Ashland, Ky. She was born November 21, 1923 in Sciotoville, Ohio daughter of the late Ralph L. and Emma
Irwin Peters.
She is survived by three sisters Mary Frances Roush of Coal Grove, Ohio, Thelma Louise McGuire of Ironton, Ohio and Sarah
Jeanette Killin of Ironton, Ohio; one brother Ralph G. Peters of Coal Grove, Ohio; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was
raised in southeast Ohio and graduated from The Ohio State with a teaching degree. She received her Masters degree in music
from Marshall University.
After teaching at Coal Grove School for six years, she joined the Army in 1951. Her military career started as the bandmaster
of the 14th Army Band (WAC), a position she held for 11 years. It was the only all-female band in the entire military and
they toured the country extensively. They were the preferred band at many presidential functions and marched in three inaugural
parades. Alice led the band at the 1956 Worlds Fair in New York as well.
Her military career had just begun. She worked at the Office of Public Affairs at the Pentagon and was the only person
on duty the day she received the call informing her that President Kennedy had just been shot. The days following were crazy,
as she recalls. It wasnt long before she transferred to another position at the Military District of Washington. From there
she went to Logistics Command Headquarters in Europe and then back to the States as the Chief of Information at the Defense
Language Institute.
Alice retired after 21 years at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. She spent her retirement years enjoying boating with her
dear friend Colonel Dorothy Gray. Their friendship began in 1955 and endured until Dorothy passed away in 2006. A graveside
service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, February 7, 2015 at Woodland Cemetery, Ironton, Ohio with Rev. Bradley Jenkins officiating.
Full military graveside honors will be conducted with burial to follow. There will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorial
donations may be made to Coal Grove United Methodist Church. Hall Funeral Home and Crematory, Proctorville, Ohio is in charge
of arrangements.
|
Photo by findagrave member Carol Bruce |
|
Photo by findagrave member Carol Bruce |
|
Photo by findagrave member Carol Bruce |
WOODLAND CEMETERY
IRONTON
LAWRENCE COUNTY
OHIO
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2014
|
SFC SHIRLEY MAUER |
SFC Shirley "Sid" Maurer
13 Mar 1928- 4 Jun 2014
Shirley "Sid" Maurer died at the University of Iowa Hospital on June 4, 2014. As per her wishes, no funeral service
will be held. A public graveside service at the Tipton Masonic Cemetery will be held Monday, June 9, 2014 at 1:00 PM followed
by refreshments at Prairie Hills Assisted Living, 219 Cedar Street, Tipton, Iowa.
Surviving family members are a sister Marge Fraseur of Spencer, Iowa and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: Gale and Stanley Maurer; and two sisters: Lucile Harr and Maureen
Salisbury.
Shirley was born on March 13, 1928 in Tipton, Iowa to Herb and Bertha Pfarr Maurer. She graduated from Tipton High School
in 1946, and later attended the University of Iowa. She enlisted in the Women's Army Corp and served from 1952-54. She performed
in the 14th Army Band. Following her discharge she worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Washington D.C.
In 1968 she returned to Tipton and was the receptionist for Drs. Kopsa and Kruse. Later she groomed dogs and operated
Sid's Puppy Parlor. She participated in many local music groups in the community including a woodwind quartet, the pit band
for school musicals, Tri-County Community Band, and she sang in the First United Church of Christ Choir.
She had been residing at Prairie Hills Assisted Living in Tipton for the last three years.
Memorial donations to your favorite community music group, animal shelter or the Tipton Ambulance Service would please
Shirley greatly. Music and dogs were her passion.
From: IowaCremation.org
|
Photo by findagrave member HC Hughes |
MASONIC CEMETERY
TIPTON, CEDAR COUNTY
IOWA
*******************************************************************************
2013
|
Phot by Linda Sheldon WAC Band |
|
Marker created by Annette |
SGT Lynn Marie
Valerio
23 Nov
1946- 2 Dec 2013
Lynn passed away at the Los Banos Memorial Hospital CA. She was a member of the 14th Army Women's Army Corps Band from 1970
until 1973, and a member of the Wac Heritage Chapter 62, Wac Veterans Association.
The WAC Band was made up of hundreds of women musicians who served in the WAC Bands throughout the decades that comprise
the service of the members of the Women's Army Corps. They are a close knit group of women veterans of this historic Army
unit. Many of them stayed in frequent touch with each other and have reunions every two years a Ft McClellan AL, former home
of the Women's Army Corp.
Lynn enlisted in the Women's Army Corps on 25 June 1970 and went through WAC Basic Training in "D" Company,
1st WAC Training Battalion, Fort McClellan, Alabama. She was assigned to the 14th Army Women's Army Corps Band as a tuba player
in August 1970.
In September 1973, Lynn reenlisted for Chaplain's School and to reclassify into MOS (Military Occupational Specialty)
71M (Chaplain's Assistant). She attended the Chaplain's Assistant Course at Fort Hamilton, NYC in New York. Lynn had the
distinction of being the first official Roman Catholic Chaplain's Assistant, and graduated near the top of her class.
She was assigned upon graduation in late 1973 to Fort
Huachuca, Arizona. Her next duty assignment was to the 3rd Infantry Division, Frankfurt, Germany, where she worked as
a Chaplain's Assistant in th Stuttgart/Wurzburg areas.
Later she was reassigned to Patch Barracks, NATO at Stuttgart. While in Germany she was selected to attend a temporary
duty course held at the Gregorian School of Music at Vatican City, Rome, Italy. Upon completion of her overseas tour in Germany
in 1980, Lynn was assigned to Fort Ritchie, Maryland.
After over 12 years in the Army, Lynn left the military on7 December 1982, and moved to Modesto, California where she
attended junior college. In 1992, Lynn graduated from California University at Stanislaus, CA with a Bachelor of Arts in History
with a specialization in Roman Catholic Church history.
She moved to Hilmar, CA and took a job as director of Religious Education for grades K through 12. While there, she took
more college courses, one of which she mentioned specifically, was called "New Wine", sponsored by the Catholic
Church.
From 2000 to 2006 Lynn taught music at 3 elementary schools in Delhi, CA. In 2006 Lynn moved back to her home town of
Gustine, CA and worked at the Shrine of Our Lady of Miracles, teaching vocal and instrumental music. She retired from teaching
in 2010.
lynn played euphonium with 3 area volunteer or community bands: The Night Band of the University of California at Stanislaus;
The Hilmar Community Band; and the Modesto California Band of Stanislaus. Additionally, Lynn played mandolin in the Portugese
Cultural Band of Gustine, CA. She also played Taps on bugle as a volunteer for th elocal chapter of the American Legion, and
the San Jouquin National Veteran's Cemetery in Santa Nella, CA.
She was really looking forward to the Wac Band reunion in October 2014. with her 2 "new" knees.
Lynn was always confident in her life's journey, and she knew the path(s) she wanted to take to reach her goals and enjoy
her adventures along the way. She was an animal lover, and she always had kind words to say about everyone. Lynn set a true
Christian example in living her life. She has gone too soon, but we can be comforted to know that she lived a full and varied
life, and touched countless lives wherever she lived and worked. She will be missed.
Melinda Whitman
Master Sergeant (Retired), US Army
Women's Army Corps Band
|
WAC BAND REUNION OCT 2010 FT McCLELLAN AL |
*********************************************************************************************
DANNY BOY
Beloved friend and mascot of 1ST Dixie Jensen and the 14th Women's Army Corp Band
My Forever Friend
I know that it must be different,
now that I am no longer here.
I realize how much I was loved
and how all of you did care.
I know it will be hard at first
when you look around for me.
Expecting to find me in my bed
or beside my favorite tree.
Someday
you will begin to see,
although it'll take some time,
the happy times you shared with me,
the memories are yours and mine.
I'll remember you, my family,
and how much you meant to me.
So please don't grieve and don't be sad
It
was just my time to leave
********************************************************************************
2012
|
photo- Deb Scharf |
SFC Sue Horne
1936-2012
Funeral services for SFC, Ret Sue Jo Horne, 75, of Belton are scheduled for 1:00 pm Monday, April 30, 2012, at Heartfield
Funeral Home Chapel. Interment with full military honors will be in Bellwood Memorial Park.
Sue was born on September 27, 1936 at San Saba, Texas to the late Thomas Lloyd and Helen L. (Brown) Horne. She was educated
in Belton and Wurzburg, Germany and attended San Antonio College, University of Maryland and Louisiana Tech.
In 1957 Sue joined the US Army at San Antonio and served 21½ years retiring on May 31, 1979 as Sgt. First Class at Fort
Polk, LA. She was a Life Member of the Association of United Army, NCO Association D.A.V., and W.A.C. Veterans Association,
V.F.W., Charter Member of the Women in the Military Memorial, Women in the Army Museum, Charter Member of the US Arm Museum,
Army Historical Society and AARP. She died Sunday at her home in Belton.
Preceding her in death were her father, Thomas L. Horne; step-father, James J. Mikkelson; mother, Helen Horne Mikkleson;
two brothers, Lloyd Butch Horne and John L. Horne.
Survivors include her sister, inlaws Mitzi Horne of Point, Tx; Linda Horne of Allen; nephews, Chris Horne of Richardson,
Jason Horne of Dallas, Derek Horne of Allen; nieces Melanie Bulls of Temple, Melissa Thompson of Harker Heights and great-niece,
Dyrkia Lee Garcia Sevilla of El Paso.
The family will receive friends from m 6-8 pm Sunday, April 30, 2012 at the funeral home.
Should friends desire memorials may be made to American Heart Association, American Cancer Association or the American
Lung Association.
Sue was a saxophone player with the 14th Army Wac band from 1957 to 1963.She retiired while serving with the 5th infantry
Mechanized Division, Fort Polk LA in 1979. She attended WAC aniversary reunions and was a lively participant in the WAC ban
reuion concerts.
******************************************************************************************************
2011
Spec6 Thelma Lee Bryant
9
Sept 1949- 1 July 2011
Thelma served in the 14th Women's army corps band as a saxophone player 1970-1973. She passed away in at the Life Care
Center of Reno from Breast Cancer in Reno NV, she is survived by a son Trevor Bryant. Daughter of James D Bryant and Marilyn
Kennedy Bryant. Thelma had 16 years of eduation, she was a bar tender in Reno NV.
Note: Creamated Sierra Crematory in Reno NV
|
marker created by Annette |
*************************************************************************************************
SSG Ardyce "Blue" Gregor
1947- 11 Dec 2011
|
Photo findagrave contributor: PGM93 |
Leeds
Cemetery
Benson County
North Dakota, USA
|
photo courtesy Greenquest Video Productions www.greenquestvideo.com |
She joined the army in 1968 from Leeds ND, She rapidly became the WAC bands principal vocialist and was also a accomplished
keyboard and woodwind player.
She was both a gymnast and a swimmer, went to college with a vocal major, and played anything that had a reed on it. A
bearcat in rehearsal, she was one of the most laid back performers on stage . After ten years, she left the Army and became
an RN. She returned to her home state and that is where she is now. A good NCO, a monster musician, and a friend to many of
us.
she had a driver's license at age 11. She said the crops didn't care how old you were when it came time to bring them
in from the field
Blue preferred to play oboe or English Horn. Bass or alto clarinet
came next. If it had a reed, Blue could play it. She left the Army after 10 years as a SSG. She also was a great keyboard
player (played with the combo
and the dance band) and percussion player - things like cymbals on the
march, or mallet stuff in concert band. she had been thought of as always 1. singer, 2. oboe for concert band, 3. keyboard
for combo and dance band, and 4. cymbal player on the march and mallet player in concert band -
in that order.
**********************************************************************************************
|
CINDY CLARK 2008 WAC BAND REUNION |
SPEC 4 CINDY E. CLARK
10 Jan 1957- 3 Aug 2011
Trombone
player
|
CINDY CLARK 1978 FT McCLELLAN AL |
|
marker created by Annette |
Cindy Clark 54, daughter of Russell Clark and Virginia Clark (Mason) Brett passed away peacefully at her home on 13 Naggragansett
Drive, Plymouth MA.
She was a Member of the 14th Army band at Ft McClellan AL as a trombone player. She graduated from basic Training in 1978,
CO A 1st Bn at Ft McClellan AL and she served a tour of duty in Korea 2nd Infantry Divison Band at Camp Casey in 1981.
She attended the Army School of music basic course, which was once open only for the men. She finished her service at
the rank of Spec E-4.
At the time the WAC band was being disbanded and reorganized to have both female and male musicians, She never really
got to play with the 14th Women's Army Corp's band.
she entered the US Army in 1978, at the very end of the era of the Women's Army Corps and the WAC Band. She was stationed
with the 14th Army Band at Fort McClellan, Alabama, where the WAC Band was stationed for decades. She undoubtedly heard of
the heritage of the WAC Band, and may have made acquaintance with former WAC Band women members while she was stationed there.
She mentioned that when she attended the WAC Band reunion at Ft McClellan in 2006, and got to perform with them , she
knew then how it felt to be part of the WAC band and play along side her band sisters. She really love her band and looked
forward to going to the next reunion in Oct 2012.
Services for Cindy will be on 10 Dec at 1pm at her church and Inurnment will be inside her church's columbarium, she was
a member of Christ Episcopal church 149 Court street in Plymouth MA. Cindy was a member of the church choir and Womans club.
Cindy was from Marshfield, MA, she graduated from Marshfield High School in 1975, she attended Rochester Institute of
Technology, and she had worked at Richards Micro Tool, Inc. She is survived by her mother Virginia Clark Brett of Plymouth
MA and a Aunt Mrs Barbara Davis of CT and her cousin Donna Keenan, Her good friend Donna Townsend and numberous friends from
her Face Book group and the Women's Army Corp's Band.
Cindy was informally made an honorary member of the Women's Army Corps Band when she attended the reunion and played in
the reunion concert in 2008, and she was welcomed with open arms.
(Obit created with information provided by the WAC BAND members)
Christ Episcopal Church
Inurment
Plymouth
MA
*************************************************************************************************************************
2010
SGT Kathryn L. Tapp
29 Jun 1949- 29 Jun 2010
"Tapper"
Trumpet
1971-1974
Kathryn Louise 61, passed away on June 29, 2010 in Claremore, OK. She was born on June 29, 1949, in New Orleans, LA, daughter
Cecil and Ruth HenriettaTapp. She was a member of the Women's Army Corp's band WAC band . A memorial service will be at 2:00
PM on Thursday, July 8, 2010, at Ft. Gibson National Cemetery. Arrangements provided by Cremation Society of Oklahoma, Tulsa,
OK. Graveside memorial service 2 p.m. July 8, Fort Gibson National Cemetery, Fort Gibson. Cremation Society, Tulsa.
Tapper was a Trumpet player for the WAC band
|
findagrave photo volunteer: Milliebelle) |
FT Gibson National Cemetery
Muskogee OK
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|
Photo Courtesy of Dyamix Productions www.wacband.com |
LTC Joyce E. Eslick
31 Aug 1929- 31 Dec 2010
Company Commander Wac Band
FT McClellan AL
1964- 1966
Joyce E. Eslick, Lt. Col., U.S. Army, Ret., 81, died December 31, 2010 in Seattle, WA. Born to Lewis and Selma Eslick in Huntsville,
AL on August 31, 1929, Joyce moved to Tennessee with her family and graduated from Roane County High School in Kingston. She
attended U.T. and received her B.A. at the University of Washington. Joyce joined the WAC as an enlisted person and after
attending OCS increased in rank until her retirement as Lt. Col.
Among her many accomplishments, Lt. Col. Eslick was the company commander of the 14th Women's Army Corps Band and the
first female liaison officer to the S. Vietnam Women's Army. She served her country in both the Far East and in Europe during
war and peace. she received the Bronze Star medal in 1972 and the Joint Services Commendation medal for achievement.
Lt. Col. Eslick is preceded in death by her parents, sister-in-law Jo Eslick, brother-in-law Anthony Keko, and several
nieces and nephews.
She is survived by her brother, Gerald Eslick of Lenoir City TN , sister Peggie Keko of Paint Rock TN , niece, Neocca
(Lynn) Liles, nephew Peter (Elizabeth) Keko; aunt Mary Jo (Dale) Smith, beloved friend, companion and caretaker of more than
35 years, Clydean McCarn, Seattle, WA, several great nieces, nephews and cousins, her extended family the members of the WAC
Band and all the Women of the Army, active and retired, who befriended and supported her during her adult Life and her years
of illness.
Funeral 7:30pm Tuesday January 11, 2011 in the Kyker Chapel. Burial 11am Wednesday with Military Honors at the Roane Memorial
Gardens. The family will receive friends from 6 until 7:30pm Tuesday at the Kyker Funeral Home in Kingston.
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findagrave photo volunteer: Louise) |
Roane Memorial Gardens
Rockland TN
***************************************************************************************************
SPEC 4 Kathy Blount
21 Nov 1951- 29 May 2010
Percussion
1971-1974
Kathy J. McAllister Blount. passed away on May 29, 2010 after a courageous battle against cancer. She was born November 21,
1951 at Fort Lee, Virginia. Kathy lived in the El Paso area and graduated from Parkland High School in 1970. Kathy was a member
of the 14th Women's Army Corp's Band. She followed in her mother's footsteps, who also served in the Army WAC band stationed
at Fort McClellan, AL the home to the Army Corp Basic Training and School.
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findagrave photo volunteer: Laurel Inalecio) |
FT. Bliss National Cemetery
Elpaso TX
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2009
SPEC 4 Kay Evelyn Withers
29 Nov 1949- 21 Sept 2009
Saxophone
1969-1972
Kay passed away 21 Sept 2009 in Seatlle after a brave fight with cancer. She was born Nov. 29, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas,
to John and Evelyn Withers. She came to Alaska in 1955 and experienced some of Alaska's significant events including statehood
in 1959 and the 1964 earthquake.
Kay displayed a talent for music at an early age. In seventh grade, she began playing the tenor saxophone. Kay excelled
at it and played in the honor band at Central Junior High School. She graduated from West High School in 1968.
After completing one year at the University of Alaska Anchorage, she joined the Women's U.S. Army Corps Band in 1970 and
toured throughout the United States. A memorable moment was performing before her paternal grandmother and other family members
in Texas. She was honorably discharged and returned home to her studies at UAA.
In 1975, Kay represented UAA at the Miss Alaska Pageant and stunned the audience with her tenor sax performance. She graduated
from UAA with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology.
She began working at Cal Worthington Ford in 1980, and for almost 29 years, she greeted customers in person and over the
phone. Many customers recognized her voice and knew her first name.
During the late '70s and early '80s, Kay continued to play sax with several Anchorage bands. On a company-sponsored cruise,
she entered the ship's talent contest and won first place - for her singing! She also won numerous awards at the Fur Rendezvous
Miners and Trappers balls for her spectacular costumes.
Kay will be remembered for her warm smile and gentle, generous spirit. She loved animals and always had pets. She also
loved to shop for special gifts for family and friends.
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2007
|
(photo- bobby dobbins title) |
MSG Deloris A. Mattox
"DOKEY"
14 Oct 1935- 17Jan 2007
Dokey enlisted in the Women's Army Corps in 1961 and retired from the U.S. Army in 1982 as M/Sgt. Played sax in the Army band
for 8 years, then was in logistics for the remaining time. She grew up in Long Beach, CA, attending Whittier Elementary, Hamilton
Jr. Hi, and Poly High School. She was a long-time member of Girl Scout Troop 28, and attended reunions until she died. She
was a friend for a lifetime.
(Bobby Dobbins Title)
|
(photo-bobbie creech). |
Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery
Sierra Vista Arizona
*************************************************************************************************
2004
SGT
Debra Rae Karns
1949-2004
Tuba
1970-1976
Staff Sgt Deborah Rae Karns , 55 of Robinwood Drive, Clarion PA, died Friday, April 2, 2004, at the Washington VA Medical
Center in Washington DC. She was born Oct 4, 1948, in Kittanning PA and was the daughter of Ray Karns, who survives in Clarion,
and Louise Ann (Harvey) Karns, who preceded her in death on Mar 5, 1999.
Staff Sgt Karns,served in the US Army and she served in the Women's Army Corps as a medic, receiving the Army Service
ribbon, National defense service medal, Bronze star, Army reserve components Achievement medal, Overseas service ribbon, Good
Conduct medal, Army Achievement medal and Army Commendation medal.
She was a member of the 14th US WOMEN'S ARMY CORPS BAND 1970-1976- Tuba player, Ft McClellan AL.
Clarion Cemetery
Clarion PA
***************************************************************************************************
2003
|
Photo courtesy of Wac is a soldier too documentry |
SFC Majorie Z. Kimmel
1929-2003
Trumpet
Offical Ft McClellan post Bugler
1950-1962
|
findagrave photo volunteer: (Maryann Ferguson) |
Anniston Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Veterans Garden
Anniston AL
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|
(photo courtesy sandy brown) |
SFC Rosella Collins
30 Jun 1932- 29 Jun 2003
Trombone
1950-1971
|
findagrave photo volunteer :(angel hunter) |
Willanette National Cemetery
Portland OR
***************************************************************************************************
1SG Margaret
Clemenson Overstreet
24 Jun 1939- 27 Mar 2003
Percussion and Drum Major
1958-1974
|
findagrave photo volunteer: mostly middle TN) |
Greenwood Cemetery
Montgomery AL
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2002
MSG Sandra Jean McPhate
1940-2002
Clarinet
1958-1974
Sandy McPhate, born around 1940, was a clarinet player who joined the Women's Army Corps Band at Fort McClellan, Alabama in
1957 or 1958. She was from Pasadena, Texas. In 1974 or 1975, Sandy was transferred to the 214th Army Band at Fort McPherson,
GA. She retired from there in 1981 and returned to Pasadena, Texas, where she died after a long illness in 2002.
It is hard to say what Sandy was truly like because she let very few people get close to her, and, it seemed to many,
that she went out of her way to keep people at a distance. She was a woman of few words, but was very wise and intelligent,
and very particular in her ways. Whenever Sandy had something to say everyone paid attention, and with just a look, she could
strike fear into the hearts of her subordinates. She could be strict and unapproachable, and many people found her to be
difficult to work with.
Yet, underneath it all, she really had a heart of gold, though she did not always let it shine through. One WAC Band
member said of Sandy that she was patient with anyone when the subject was music, but at other times, and with other subjects
- not so much. Another WAC Band member said that Sandy could be kind, a sweetheart, and quite a gal, when the spirit moved
her. But getting though the public persona she projected as strict, tough and mean was hard. It is believed that Sandy's
favorite things, as far as is known, were music and animals. It is suspected that Sandy loved animals more than people, which
is not a bad thing. Sandy loved dogs, and raised shelties during her time at Fort McClellan. One of the WAC Band commanders
commented that Sandy introduced her to shelties, and she bought one of Sandy's dogs. She said she will always be grateful
to Sandy for bringing so much joy into her life. Sandy also had some artistic talent. She willingly designed a very nice
certificate for the WAC Band that was given out to
many departing band members.
When it was learned that the Women's Army Corps Band would be inactivated and women and men would serve together in regular
Army bands, Sandy was transferred to the 214th Army (Forces Command) Band at Fort McPherson, Georgia, around 1974, where she
was promoted to E8, Master Sergeant. Having women forced by the Army into previously all male bands was not received well
in any of the Army bands in the 1970s. The transition was hard for the women, as well, because not only were they not welcome,
but they had to deal with rampant institutional sexual harassment, abuse and discrimination. Through the sheer force of her
personality, MSG Sandy McPhate more than stood her ground. She stood up for what was right, and fought for fair and equal
treatment for the women in the band in a frequently hostile climate that discriminated against women.
MSG Sandy McPhate will be remembered with respect and honor by those who served with her, and especially by the members
of the Women's Army Corps Band.
Obit created by information from the WAC band and composed by MSG Melinda Whitman USA Ret.
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photo by findagrave member Karen Lovy |
HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
HARRIS COUNTY TEXAS
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2001
She wrote the music score for the Pallas Anthena March, performed by the 14th Womens Army Corps band. Lois Jay Kaplan, A
Decorated WAC officer was also musician, poet she never paid much attention to the opinions of others.Her generation told
her that women didn't serve in the military. But she enlisted in the Women's Army Corps and was promoted to lieutenant colonel.
Her childhood music teacher told her that she didn't have any talent and should stop taking lessons. But she mastered
more than 20 instruments, even playing the trombone in an adult orchestra at age 14 .Ms. Kaplan, 69, died Friday, July 6,2001
of pneumonia and Alzheimer's disease in Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas.
Nicknamed "Sunny" in grade school because of her cheerful demeanor, Ms. Kaplan approached life the way she did
her work in the military: She made long lists of goals and methodically worked toward meeting them.
"At her house, she would be working on 10 different projects," said her nephew, Bryan Brooks, who spent summers
with her in Alabama, where she was stationed at Ft. McClellan in Anniston.
Brooks was one of her projects. She taught him to play the trumpet, piano and chess. When he lacked direction in high
school, she encouraged him to take challenging classes. "She knew how to light a fire under you," he said. "She
motivated you by example, by showing you how to succeed."
Ms. Kaplan attended Marshall High School on the city's West Side. After graduating from DePaul University, she traveled
to Europe to produce shows for U.S. Army troops stationed there. In 1961, she returned to the United States to finish her
first master's degree, in recreation administration, at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Later she received a master's
in humanities at Jacksonville State University in Alabama.
She was always drawn to the military, and in 1963 joined the WACs, which was created during World War II to enlist women
as auxiliaries for noncombatant duty. She was awarded the Army Commendation Medal and Meritorious Service Medal. When the
WACs were dissolved in 1978, she served in the reserves at Ft. McClellan, where she managed recreation facilities until retiring
in 1986.
Ms. Kaplan held offices in numerous community organizations, worked as a Chicago public school teacher, won music and
sports competitions, sculpted and set up a woodworking studio in her basement. Under the name "Suka," which was
a combination of Sunny and Kaplan, she published poems, stories and songs, including an official WAC march. In her spare time,
she was a pool player, master gardener and gourmet cook.
In the early 1990s she divided her time between her home in Oxford, Ala., and Tallahassee, Fla., where she was working
toward a doctorate in music and humanities at Florida State University. When her Alzheimer's symptoms worsened in 1998, she
moved to Willow Creek Nursing Home in Las Vegas to be near her sister, Marion Brooks.
Source: July 12, 2001|By Sarah E. Richards, Tribune staff reporter
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findagrave photo volunteer: (Jim Craft) |
Westlawn Cemetery
Norridge ILL
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2000
SGT Mary Alice Silvis
Passed
away in 2000
"Stretch"
Baritone
1950-1954
14th US WOMENS ARMY CORPS BAND-1950-1954
Sgt. Mary Alice Silvis from Greensburg, Pa. served in the WAC from 1950 to 1954.
She auditioned for an Army band position with Major Chester Whiting, commander of the Army Field Forces Band at Fort Meade,
Md.
She was a member ofthe 14th Army Band (WAC) under band director Warrant Officer Junior Grade Katherine V. Allen. She died
Apr. 28, 2000
(WAC foundation- The Flag Pole)
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SGM US ARMY
Weaver Al, Private graveside services for retired Sgt Major Patricia R Browing 66, of 900 Ridge Drive, Weaver, will be
Friday at 10 am, with Chapel Hill funeral home in charge. The family will recieve friends at the funeral home from 7 to 9
thurday tonight. Miss Browning died Tuesday at her home
Survivors include her mother, Margaret Browning of Anderson IND, three sisters, Kathyrn Browning of Wasgington DC, Dixie
Browning of Anniston and Carol Browning of Anderson, a brother Roy J Browning of Forth Worth Texas.
An Elyria Ohio native, Miss Browning was a 1945 graduate of Anderson High school and attended Jacksonville state university
for music theory courses. She took her basic training at Ft McClellan Al from Oct to Dec 1954.
She was assigned to the 14th Army Wac band from 1954 to Apr 1974, where she was a First Sgt with the band from 1966 to
1974. She was assigned to the 214 Army Band forces command from Apr 1974- to Sept 1976 at Ft McPherson GA and retired from
the army in 1976 as a Sergeant Major enlisted band leader of the 214 Army band forces command, now known as the Army ground
Forces band.
SGM Browning was awarded the Good conduct medal 1st through the 7th award, the National defence service medal, Meritorious
service medal and the Legion of merit medal. She was a member of the WAC veteran asssociation chapter 62, Amercian Legion
post 57 of Jacksonville Al and retired military musicians and NAUS.
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WOJG KATHERINE ALLEN |
Band master Camp Lee. A graduate of Juillard school of music, was welcomed 5 March 1949 along with 10 band members by the
Wac Training Center commander, several months later 16 more members joined the unit. WO Allen later formed small groups,
A dance band, dixieland jazz band, barber shop quartet. She complete her tour in 1952 and was replaced by then 2nd LT Alice
V Peters, who maintained that position until 1961.
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(photo courtesy sandy brown).jpg |
Rose A. Davis
'Davy"
Wac
Band 1949-1953
Baritone
& Trumpet player
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(photo courtesy sandy brown).jpg |
Marion L. Griffith
Wac Band 1950-1953
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2010
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SGT DONNA MAE SMITH 1920-2010 |
SGT
Donna Mae Baldenecker Smith
3
Jan 1920- 3 Apr 2010
1st
Woman Bugler
WAAC
WWII
SGT Smith was the Army's first female bugler while a member of the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps in 1942 at Fort Des Moines,
Iowa.
from 1942 to 1943 She was part of the WAAC training center's band, whose purpose was to recruit women for the WAAC (later
renamed the Women's Army Corps) and train band members for posts that were opening in other states. Smith said she joined
the Army because she wanted to help save the country.
long time Sutherlin resident Donna-Mae (Baldenecker) Burr, Smith, a WWII Veteran and the First Woman Bugler in the United
States Military, passed away in Roseburg, Oregon on April 3, 2010. She was 90 years old.
She was born on January 3, 1920 in Manly Iowa. From 1935-1938 she played trumpet with the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing
(3M) Company band and in the Payne Avenue and Brown and Bigelow Drum and Bugle Corp. She graduated from High School in St.
Paul Park, Minnesota in 1938 and went on to attended Minneapolis School of Music, Univ. of Minnesota and Pierce College.
In 1942 she enlisted in the military to play in the military band. She rose to the rank of Sergeant while serving in the
WAAC Band from 1942–1943 as solo trumpet at Fort Des Moines, Iowa where she earned honor of first woman bugler in
the U.S. Military. She awakened the troops with reveille, sounded the calls for the day and played taps in the evening.
Donna-Mae held the position of Sr. Financial Manager with the Los Angeles Board of Education for 14 years. Donna-Mae married
Edgar H. Smith in December 1964, and in 1969, they moved to the Placerville, California area, where she established a successful
fruitcake business known as "Donna's Delight". At that time, she was employed by the El Dorado County Auditing Dept.
Donna-Mae became a member of the American Legion, Post 15 (Oakland, Oregon) and also served as Post Commander. She was
a member of American Women Veterans Association, and AMVETS. Donna-Mae was a member of Epsilon Sigma Alpha International Sorority,
Beta Iota Chapter for over 55 years and was also a member of the Eastern Star. . She played taps with the VFW Honor Guard
for veteran's funerals in the Roseburg area since 1992.
In June, 2009 she was inducted into the Bugler's Hall of Fame.
Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at 2:00 pm at the Roseburg VA National Cemetery. . Military
Rites will be offered by the VFW District Twelve Honor Guard
(Obit from the buglershalloffame.com
Roseburg National Cemetery
Roseburg Oregon
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2007
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(photo- find a grave contributor L. Davenport) |
Lois Margaret Elaine Ginther Abrell
29 Nov 1920- 7 Dec 2007
She was born Nov. 29, 1920 in Berlin, Oregon the daughter of Perry and Nellie (Canaga) Ginther. Lois graduated from Lebanon
High School in 1938 and then attended the University of Oregon, graduating in 1942 with a Bachelor's Degree in Music. Lois
then took her first music teaching job in Silverton in 1942.
In 1943, she entered the Women's Army Corps., where she traveled throughout the United States with the 400th ASF Band.
While playing in the Four Freedoms Bond Tour, Lois and the band welcomed home General Dwight D. Eisenhower. She was discharged
on September 27, 1945.
She married James Abrell on Oct. 22, 1944 in Lebanon, Oregon. They settled in Lebanon and raised their family. Lois taught
music for the Lebanon Public Schools until retiring in 1981. Mr. Abrell preceded her in death on January 31, 2002.
Lois was a lifelong member of the Lebanon First Christian Church. She was also active in the American Legion and American
Legion Auxiliary; she was past president of both the American Legion Auxiliary Santiam Post 51 & District #3. She had
been involved with numerous activities and committees with the Linn County Veterans Association, 40/8, and VFW and was Linn
County Veteran of the year in 1972 and 1998. Lois had been named Lebanon Citizen of the Year and later Lebanon Senior Citizen
of the Year. She was Past Worthy Matron of the Marguerite Chapter # 60 Order of the Eastern Star, Past Worthy High Priestess
of Cedars of Lebanon White Shrine of Jerusalem #9. Lois has bugled at hundreds of funerals, flag ceremonies, and other veteran's
events in her life. Lois was known and will be remembered for her love of her family, her country and her Lord.
The Berkshire Eagle newspaper
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(photo- find a garve volunteersandra bessent). |
Twin Oaks Cemetery
Albany Oregon
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2012
TEC4 Eleanor Hawke
3 May 1919- 4 Jan 2012
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(photo- find a grave volunteer: john nelson) |
Brig Gen William C. Doyle
Veterans
Memorial Cemetery
Wrightstown New Jersey
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2010
TEC5 Mary Dodds Alamillo
7 Oct 1921- 25 July 2010
Mary Dodds Alamillo- Audrey Gross- Grace Jachim-Reed- -Mary Holland Parr- Frances McPhail - Helen Patterson- Geraldine Scott
Meer-Clemintine McConico Skinner-Jean Schlappi- Edit Text
Mary J. Alamillo, 88, of 600 Laurel Street, Lee, formerly of Hillsdale, NY, died Sunday at Laurel Lake Center in Lee.
She was born in Hillsdale, NY on October 7, 1921 the daughter of Robert and Mary Brown Dodds and was a 1940 graduate of
the former Roeliff Jansen High School in Hillsdale, NY. In 1942, she graduated from Hillcrest School Nursing in Pittsfield.
She served as a WAC in the U.S. Army During WWII, serving from 1943 until 1946, and was discharged with the rank of Tec
5.
After the service, she began working at Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington in the Maternity Ward, retiring in 1989.
North Hillsdale Rural Cemetery
Hillsdale New York
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1999
Marybell Nissly
1
May 1916- 30 July 1999
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(photo- find a grave volunteer- Chris Kittrell) |
Little Rock National Cemetery
Little Rock Arkansas
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1997
SP4 Sara Margaret Conkin
23 Sept 1947- 17 Mar 1997
Tuba Player Wac Band
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(photo courtesy sandy brown).jpg |
1SG Janet Helker
10 Aug 1921- 18 Dec 1996
1994
SGM Patricia R. Browning
19 AUG 1927- 7 Jun 1994
Percussion
1953-1974
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findagrave photo volunteer: maryann ferguson) |
Anniston Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Veterans Garden
Anniston AL
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1992
SFC Velma Calcio
Pee Wee
Trumpet Player
Passed away Nov 1992
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1986
SFC Wanda J. Blair
Trumpet Player
1935-1986
SFC Wanda Jean Blair joined the Women's Army corp in 1954. After completing basic training at Ft McClellan Al, she went directly
to the 14th Women's army corps band stationed at Ft McClellan Al. She was a Trumpet player and a Bugler and also a featured
member of the brass section.
On 15 Oct 1967, SFC Blair re-enlisted for 6 more years, she was given the oath of enlistment by her Wac Band Company Commander
1LT Frances A. Austad. During SFC Blair's career, she received three Good conduct medals, the 3rd award was presented to her
by LTC Sue Lynch, Commander of the WAC CENTER in Nov 1963.
Wanda had either six or seven awards of the Good Conduct Medal by the time she retired. She was a neat, neat lady and
a monster trumpet player. Sgt (as in E-5) Blair got the third award of the GCM, meaning she had been in the Army over nine
years. Promotions in the Band were really hard to come by.
Wanda's highest rank was SFC, E7. She was trumpet section leader to many of the band members late 1960s and 1970s era
trumpet players, and was one of the NCOs who auditioned trumpet playing basic trainees for possible acceptance into the WAC
Band.
She was a strict disciplinarian to her trumpeters and demanded high standards of appearance in the wear of the uniform
and personal grooming, and, also, that her section practiced and knew their music at all times. But as strict as she was as
an NCO, there was another side to her - that of a "mother hen". Especially for the younger band members, Wanda was
always available as a problem solver, or just to have someone to talk to. She always made the band smile while listening to
her warm, West Virginia accent, and her frequent use of the word "darlin'" in every conversation.
Wanda was concerned about always providing a professional appearance when playing trumpet. And she was unique in that
she had her mouthpiece bent, so that when she played in marching band or for military funerals, the trumpet would be parallel
to the ground and not pointing downward.
One of the missions of the band during the Vietnam War era of the late 1960s and early 1970s, was to provide buglers to
accompany all male Army firing squads and pall bearers for military funerals in Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia. Although
she didn't have to since she was Section Leader,
Wanda took on the bulk of the funerals as bugler herself, in order to spare the younger trumpeters the sexual harassment
and abuse that was wide spread in the 1970s Army. She did so quietly and uncomplainingly. In the bands eyes, she is a hero
for doing that!
Wanda was a highly respected member of the Women's Army Corps Band, a good and effective NCO and Trumpet player, and a
really good person with a big heart and warm smile, who was loved and respected by all who knew her, and very much missed.
(Obit created by information provided by the WAC BAND)
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1984
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Photo courtesy of Wac is a soldier too documentry |
SFC Schhonel She was the daughter of William and Agnes Schondel, she was born in Columbus Ohio 15 Apr 1921. Enlisted in
the army 1 May 1962, served until 3 Jul 1967. She was a member of the 14th WAC Band, Ft McClellan AL. Sister to Elton, Virginia,
Jannette and David Schondel.
Dora passed away at Noble Army Hospital Ft McClellan Al, she was a resident of Colonial Pines nursing home. She was 62
years old and served for 20 years in the US Army. Survived by her sister Virginia Mroczrowski of Ohio.
Ft McClellan Military Cemetery
Ft McClellan Anniston AL
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photo: Southern find a grave volunteer |
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1977
SSG Audrey Marie Zenor
1947-1977
Clarinet
Audrey Marie Zenor - born March 1947. Died as a result of a one car roll over crash, in which she was driving, at night in
the state of Tennessee, in November 1977. She was 30 years old. Her parents were Russell and Audrey Marie Zenor of Manchester,
New Hampshire. Audrey had several brothers and sisters. The family was raised Catholic. Her parents met while they both served
in the Navy during World War II.
Audrey attended the University of New Hampshire at one time. It is not known if she received a degree.
It is thought she entered the US Army and the Women's Army Corps in the late 1960s, probably 1968 or 1969. After graduation
from WAC basic training she was accepted into the Women's Army Corps Band as a clarinet player MOS 02J. Audrey also played
saxophone, but her primary instrument was clarinet.
Audrey was short in stature, but tall in intellect. When not playing clarinet in concert and marching band, she could
always be found reading a book, having a cup of coffee, smoking a cigarette, and humming. She was a quiet person, but had
a disarming dry wit. And she was not afraid to speak up to express a well thought out opinion, or to befriend a new band member,
to point out and correct something that was wrong, and defend another band member, especially standing up for those of lesser
rank. Audrey was well liked and respected.
When it became clear that the Women's Army Corps Band was to be inactivated, Audrey knew that she did not want to serve
in other Army bands or go overseas. She had established her home in the Anniston, Alabama area. She left the Army as a Staff
Sergeant, E-6 in December 1976. She worked for a friend who owned a gas station in downtown Anniston before her fatal accident.
Audrey was loved and respected by all who knew her, and her sudden death deeply shocked and saddened her former WAC Band
members, and devastated her family. She will be remembered and treasured as a member of the Women's Army Corps Band.
(Obit created from information provided by members of the WAC BAND and Melinda Whitman))
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