USS PRIDE DE 323 - PAGES FROM A SCRAPBOOK

NEWS FROM A FRIEND - PAGE 48

2008-05-29T19:14:00.003-04:00

Hi Bill,

Almost forgot about you. Missed you. I was home this time. Sure was dead without you - 7 "shorts" - 1 "long"

PETE

MAIL BAG - PAGE 47

2008-05-27T07:58:00.001-04:00

September 4, 1944 Dear (Bill),

Recieved your letter and was very happy to hear you're getting a leave soon. I'll have my eye open for you so don't disappoint me.
(page 2 - right hand side) You asked for my number - it's Ta 5636. Did you get any thing for me on your last trip? A yo-yo? Honest Check, that's me picture, I wouldn't kid you. Here I am in soem more poses. This one was telen when I was begging for hamburgers.

(page 3 - left hand side) I'll try and be good till I see you. Maybe get another fella to come up with you and then maby Annie could come too, huh? Then Joe would only be absent.

Till I see you then - take care of yourself - have a couple hamburgers on me O.K.? Send me the bill.

Love,

Ginny

FINISHING THE MISSION - PAGE 46

2008-05-24T13:01:00.002-04:00

Later the Pride shot out to catch back up with their convoy, a trip that took two days. During their absence the convoy had been attacked again by torpedoes and another DE, the Fetchteler had been hit and sunk. The remainder of the trip was uneventful. After this trip the Pride was transferred to a submarine killer group. But in the meantime it was off to New York.

LEARNING THE REST OF THE STORY - PAGE 45

2008-05-19T10:14:00.004-04:00

After the fray, the Pride and the Campbell headed for Algiers having on board all of the German prisoners. Coming in to dock they found admirals, generals, and panjandrum from Algiers ready to greet them and congratulate them on their bravery and prowess. It turns out the U-boat that they sunk was not just any U-boat, but U-371, the “Mediterranean Ace” who, with their 26 year-old captain, had been responsible for sinking 70,000 tons of Allied shipping.

Here is part of the story from the German perspective unknown until after the returned to Algiers. The first attack by the Pride had badly damaged the U-boat and put it out of commission. They had hit bottom, not cleverly hid out there. There they remained wedged at the bottom of the sea. The had to free themselves by working the one remaining engine and having the crew run from bow to stern. It was then that they were able to surface and set off their torpedoes before surrendering.

The picture is of William Valencheck commemorating the sinking of a sub by painting it on the side of the ship. Later generations of Coast Guardsmen would do much the same thing in their war on drugs. Pictures of snowflakes representing cocaine or marijuana leaves are painted on the side of the ship to mark significant drug busts.

THE WAITING GAME - PAGE 44

2008-05-12T08:42:00.005-04:00

The next day the Pride and Campbell were joined by three other ships, one American, one French, and one British. They knew that the U-boat must surface soon to get air and so they patrolled the area waiting for the opportunity to engage her. Soon all five ships picked up something on their sonar and headed out to the spot. The U-boat appeared but the ships had to be careful about firing for they were in close quarters and could possibly hit one of their own.

The Senegalese reported being hit by a torpedo. Soon many men were reported floating in the sea with lifejackets. It was assumed that they were from the Senegalese but it turned out that she was not damaged quite so badly. As the men were pulled onto ships it turned out that they were the crew of the U-boat. The Germans had shot off their torpedoes and then scuttled their ship, which was now going to settle on the floor of the ocean. 49 Germans including their captain were taken prisoner.

The Menges had lost 31 men, two of which were her officers. She had to be towed to the Brooklyn Navy Yard where she was grafted together with the USS Holder DE 401 which had also been hit by torpedoes. Within a relatively short spell the rejuvenated Menges would be back and patrolling along with the Pride.

ON TASK - PAGE 43

2008-05-01T08:52:00.004-04:00

The Cambell joined in the search. Depth set charges were sent down. Seeing the disturbance in the water where the underwater explosion occurred the DEs would scour the surface of the water for evidence of a hit. This U boat captain was clever. The encounter had now gone on for seven hours and daylight was creeping over the horizon and the crew exhausted. But those in the armed forces cannot stop just because they are tired. This encounter was not finished.

IN SEARCH OF A KILLER - PAGE 42

2008-05-01T08:44:00.006-04:00

As it turned out there were two submarines. The first that the Menges was hunting was only a decoy. It was the second submarine that gave the distressing blow to her. The search was on for the sub at fault. Soon sonar contact was made. The Pride made a hedgehog attack but it misfired and so switched to depth charge attack. The sub continued to head toward the Mediterranean where it would be even more difficult to track her. The Pride made another Hedgehog attack but it again misfired and so tried depth charges again. The sub dove and contact was lost for the moment.

William worked in the engine room and said that it was a distressing place to be under such conditions. There were oders for more speed or less or some such thing indicating the type of events taking place above decks but exactly what was occuring was a mystery. These were moments of high anxiety but not for losing ones cool. Men were counting on you.

SAD SIGHT - PAGE 41

2008-04-24T10:57:00.004-04:00

Looking off in the distance from the deck of the USS Pride, watching the Menges stray further and further away in pursuit of a submarine, sparks could be seen in the night. Undoubtedly it was the charges being set off by the Menges. But then the truth came over the radio. The TBS radio transmission reported the Menges had been struck by a torpedo! The Pride and the USS Campbell were ordered to assist. Off these ships went into the night to track down the attackers. It was an awesome and fearful site as the Pride cruised past the Menges, her stern blown away from the blast. She was dead in the water but there was not time to assist. Not yet. For sonar contact was made with the submarine and the Pride was on the prowl.

DANGER IS AFOOT - PAGE 40

2008-04-23T18:48:00.003-04:00

As they headed back west, C. R. Peck was standing was the watch officer on DE Pride early in the morning of May third as the convoy entered the dangerous waters off the coast of Spain where Mediterranean narrows. Something was picked up on the radar and the DE Menges was sent to investigate. She caught a sub on her radar, tracked it and prepared to engage. But the devastating surprise was on them.

MAIL BAG - PAGE 39

2008-04-21T08:11:00.003-04:00

(top) August 8th '44

Dear Bill,

Here I am back in the same old dump. So far I haven't met anyone. My husband is in the Navy now. Still waiting to hear form you. Yours, Blanche.

(The VILLAGE BARN Restaurant, New York's Nite Club, at 52 West 8th Street, between 5th and 6th avenues in New York City, is the quaintest and most typically rural restaurant in the world. Its special features are exceptional cuisine, unusual entertainment and extraordinary dance music. Besides these, backwoods games and square dances of the Gay 80's are offered for the participation of the guests. There is NO COVER CHARGE at the BARN.)

June 28 1944

Hi Bill,

Remember the next alarm I'll see you there.

Pete

(Granby Street, Norfolk Virginia)

NO REST FOR THE WEARY - PAGE 38

2008-04-10T19:23:00.005-04:00

The way to Bizerte was littered with sunken ships. A week was spen there but there was not much sight seeing in this war torn town and the crew was charged having met with its first real taste of war. It would not be its last or its worst.

At the end of the week they were to head back west in a convoy of 107 merchant ships, 12 DEs, a Coast Guard cutter, and the British AA cruiser Delphi. Below is a picture of William in Bizerte.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE SAFE - PAGE 37

2008-04-10T13:35:00.005-04:00

The USS Pride made it through this first contact with the enemy, a bit shaken up but ready as ever. The rest of the trip to Bizerte was without incident.

We tried asking Dad what they did when not sleeping, eating, or on duty and all he said was, "Not much." Cards seems to have been a large pasttime. But different endevors arise. Apparently William took to drawing. Here are some of the pictures that survive.This is the woman, Frances, that he eventually married.

TORPEDO SIGHTED! - PAGE 36

2008-04-03T10:21:00.003-04:00

Full engines ahead! With two torpedoes heading straight for the Pride depth charges were dropped in order to divert the torpedoes from their intended target. A call came out from the port side. A torpedo passed close by but pass it did. But the danger was not over for a German torpedo plane passed over head. The Pride crew reacted by spewing the air with gunfire covering the deck with shell casings until the place disappeared. The threat was over.

For now.

(These reports taken from the Pride Reunion magazines.)

SHIPS HIT! - PAGE 35

2008-03-31T15:54:00.003-04:00

The air was filled with lights from bullets, tracers, and torpedoes. The USS Hamilton exploded sending fire and smoke a hundred feet in the air when the ammunition it was carrying exploded. When the Hamilton sunk it took 580 lives with it. Also sunk were the destroyer Landsdale (a radar destroyer that was the eyes and ears of the convoy) with 47 men and the merchant ship Royal Star that stayed afloat until the following day. Other damaged ships were towed to Algiers.

But the fear level for the Pride was just beginning. A transmission came from another DE, “Pride, there are two torpedoes heading in your direction!”

TO BE CONTINUED

FIRST ATTACK 20 APRIL 1944 - PAGE 34

2008-03-31T15:50:00.002-04:00

C. R. Peck writes, “At about 35 minutes after sunset USS LOWE reported radar contact on enemy planes from dead ahead to the east. They came in low over the water in poor visibility at twilight using the nearby Algerian coast to advantage. The USS Pride had visible contact to starboard with several attackers which were fired upon without apparent result. It is estimated between 18 and 24 JU-88s and/or HE-111s took part in the raid on the convoy from dead ahead in 3 separate waves using only torpedoes. They flew down the columns of ships and received anti-aircraft fire from escorts. From my gun control station on the flying bridge I could see numerous explosions on the convoy.

TO BE CONTINUED

ON THE VERGE OF HELL - PAGE 33

2008-03-29T09:03:00.005-04:00

Though the first trip across the ocean escorting more than 100 merchant ships, fully loaded on the way over, empty on the return was without incident, it would be on this second convoy that the Pride would gain her fighting spurs. After the short stop for repairs and supplies they set out again for the Mediterranean with a large convoy headed for Bizerte, Tunisia.

According to the writing of Captain Ralph R. Curry, USCG, “On April 20 1944, we passed Algiers during the day and all seemed well. But all hell was just in front of us.”

The above pictures show the USS Pride DE323 being refuled at sea.

SECOND MISSION - PAGE 32

2008-03-22T15:55:00.003-04:00

The Pride, together with the Menges (DE 320), the Mosley (DE 321), Newell (DE 322), Falgout (DE 324) and Lowe (DE 325) composed Coast Guard DE division 46. Joined with Navy Division 21 of six ships they formed Task Group 66 led by the cutter Taney. This was the escort for convoy UGS-38 that departed from the United States and headed for the Straight of Gibraltar, arriving on April 18th, 1944. Just West of Algiers the escort was strengthened by 4 vessels equipped with radio jamming equipment: U.S. Destroyer Lansdale, U.S. Minesweepers Speed and Sustain, and Netherlands Flak cruiser Heemskerk.

(from C. R. Peck)

Headge Hoges was written on the back of the picture above.

DISTRESSING NEWS FROM HOME - PAGE 31

2008-03-17T12:37:00.004-04:00

William Valencheck Fl/c
U.S.S. Pride D.E. 323
Fleet Post Office
New York, New York

Olga Valencheck
393 Third Street
Barberton, Ohio

March 26, 1944

Sailing along with . . .the home folks . . . .

Hi, Squirt!

Boy, what a bawling out you got from me this morning! You had come home some time in the night and our surprise at seeing you in the morning was replaces by our wrath at finding that you had been INDIANA the past three month that we haven’t heard a WORD from you! But it was all a dream!

I told this dream to the family at the dinner table today and both Dad and Nelle admitted that they, too, had dreamed about you the past two days. So all of that is an indication that you’ll be walking in on us one of these days. It’s just gotta be! When we all start dreaming about a certain thing, its got to be . . .

This is going to be just a short not but I must have to tell you about the shock we’ve just had. The war has come pretty close to us since you boys are in it but now we learn that Stan’s buddy and your friend, Elmer Simon, is one of the boys missing from the D. E. “Leopold” reported destroyed by an underwater explosion on March 10. I can’t get over it. I just won’t believe that Elmer won’t come back. The news just came out in yesterday’s paper and I’ve been wanting to call his mother but I don’t know what to say to her. She seems so nice from the one telephone conversation I had with her some time ago. I keep praying that Elmer will turn up.

Alice Zalar just got back from San Francisco where she has been for the past month and she is now calling herself Mrs. Jack Matozel. We didn’t think she’d marry while there!

Last Sunday was a wonderful onw for our whole family was home. The Zods came in from Cleveland very late I the afternoon and in that big snow fall. They brought Vic and Frankie who is home form the Merchant Marine for the first time in over 18 months. It was so good to see him. He still doesn’t wear his uniform when home. Odd? There were two of their cousins with them so we had quite a house full of men! Besides my blind date who showed up after he STOOD ME UP two days before! You know I don’t go in for blind dates (and don’t you look at me with that “Oh Yeah” expression!) but this one was a Sgt. Home on furlough and it was all arranged by a nice couple I know so what’s a gal to do???

We kind o’ though the Cleve, family would be here again today but no sign of ‘em yet. Frankie said he’d like to come again before going back. He’s supposed to have till the end of this month.

Today is a beautiful day if you don’t look down. The sun is shining and the birds are chirping all over the place but there is still some snow on the ground form last night’s light snowfall.

All is peace and quiet here at home right at the moment. It is the lull after dinner. Remember?

Soon I’ll be getting ready to go to the Club where we will meet Anne and Glen who are home for the weekend. We’ll probably bowl and spend a good bit of time at the club.

I saw Don down town I the window of the Pool Hall last Tuesday but didn’t get to talk with him. You’d swear he is a civilian he gets home so much! I talked with him quite a bit the other time he was home but didn’t get his address as he was to dome over for yours and Stan’s and I was going to let his. But he didn’t show up.

This is enough for now . . . By the way, did you get latest package from home. Nelle’s?

The family all sends their love.

LETTER FROM HOME - PAGE 30

2008-03-17T11:54:00.003-04:00

March 24, 1944

Dear Will,

I was certainly glad to hear from you. I will hope you are in good health at the moment. You know, there is nothing like being physically fit. I suppose you didn’t get seasick on your trip, or did you? Well, hope not.

From what you wrote, I presume you don’t like the Coast Guard. There are others who are doing the same thing everyday too, for instance, the Army, Navy and Marines and especially me. I’m still working at the same place. All I do is eat, sleep, and work. I stayed home today though cause I hurt my ear in work yesterday. I have awful ringing in my ear. Since I stayed at home today there was a good chance to answer my mail.

Will, I know about Don being married. His sister is married too. I guess John’s doing all right. I see him every once in a while when I’m on my way to work. Right now I have a rider. I don’t have to ride the street car anymore.

Do you still mess around like you used to when you were with John on your last leave? I bet you do.

About Mary S., well I wouldn’t put anything past her, she’s liable to anything. But I wish she’d make up her mind about Jack.

Will, I saw your sisters Sunday afternoon. I didn’t stop to speak to them cause I was in a hurry. I think they were headed for Toni’s house because I met them on 15th and Tusc. I was going over to see my dead cousin. Do you know who J. R. Weber, the funeral director on Wooster Road was? He died the 15th.

I’m looking forward to your next leave just as I’m sure I’d like to see you again. I hope this letter reaches you before your next trip.

Loads of Luck
As Ever,
Caroline
(over)I saw Len not very long ago. He didn’t see me though. He’s married now too.

ALL WORK AND NO PLAY . . .PAGE 29

2008-03-15T09:32:00.004-04:00

NOTE:

2008-03-11T12:05:00.001-04:00

Please notice that today's post is posted under page 26. It contains more pictures from Casablanca and it seemed more appropriate to post them there.

A LETTER FROM SAINT LOUIS - PAGE 28

2008-03-06T09:55:00.004-05:00

William Valencheck

USS PRIDE

George Radlick USCG

USNAS Lambert Field
St. Louis MO, (21)

Thursday

Hello Bill,

Answering your letter the very day I got it. That’s pretty good. Huh?

Well, I guess I can call you a sailor now can’t I? Got the salt caked all over your body yet, or did you have that before you went to sea?

It must really be wonderful to say you’ve been to Casablanca. I have aspirations of getting out of this racket (?) some day and do some sailing. Well Bill, let me tell you what I’m doing.

I’m stationed at a naval air station in St. Louis MO. Remember when I left Tonawanda to go to that day school? Well we trained dogs for guard duty and all we do down here is stand guard duty with dogs. All this duty is night work. We work two days and off one. It’s a pretty good deal but I’d like to get out of it if I could but the trouble is a fellow can’t get out of this duty no how. Remember Philyrs from Tonawanda? The guy you always used to call Gary? He’s down here with me too he says hello.

I just got a letter from Maise’s sister. She still writes to me. I also got a letter form Maise. The (*) lost thirty pounds! Penny still writes to me. She’s going to come to Chicago on a vacation sometime in April. I may go up and see her. (. . .)

Gee Bill, I wish now I would not have gone to that dog school. Just think, I could be working right along with you, and maybe have a rate pay now.

Maybe we’ll meet before this thing is over yet and we don’t, don’t forget about our date after this is over.

Guess I’ll be closing for now. Say hello to Mitch for me. Good luck and write soon.

Your pal,

George Radlick

SAFE FIRST JOURNEY - PAGE 27

2008-03-03T16:26:00.005-05:00

These are some random pictures from that first journey overseas. Next stop: New York! Pictured below is Gibraltar 1944.

On the back of the picture below is written, "Tunis, North Africa, 1944"
Port of Bizerte North Africa, 1944. Though it looks like a desert notice the ship that is actually in the water to the left of the tower.
The following pictures are quite out of order but they were just recently found. The first that we was taken in North Dakota simply has "1942" written at the bottom.
The man in this great picture is identified as John Muldon.

CASABLANCA - PAGE 26

2008-02-28T11:00:00.000-05:00

More sights around Casablanca on that first voyage over seas. A first major voyage for most of the men on the ship.

SEEING THE WORLD - PAGE 25

2008-02-28T09:46:00.003-05:00

Can you imagine having the world opened up to you for the first time? It was horrible that war had to be experienced in order for it to happen, but the men were still able to take in parts of the world that they may not otherwise be able to see. Here are some more pictures from Casablanca.

FIRST CONVOY - PAGE 24

2008-02-22T15:39:00.006-05:00

For the next twelve months the USS PRIDE escorted badly needed men and materials to the fighting fronts in the Mediterranean area. The first convoy was to Algeria and though there were rough seas with which to contend aboard the not very stable Destroyer Escort (giving many men difficult stomachs) there were no challenges made by German submarines. They docked in Casablanca. They may not encountered any fighting themselves they were witnesses to the destruction wrought by war. These pictures show Casablanca Harbor littered with sunken ships.

MAIL BAG - PAGE 23

2008-02-15T16:08:00.004-05:00

Perhaps this letter was in with the mail also.

Niles California
January 24, 1944

Dear Bill,

Recieved your card asking me for Laurence Moise address. Sorry that I couldn't sent it to you sooner but the reason was that I didn't have it until now. We hadn't heard from him for quite a while but thank God we finally did. He wrote to me asking me to send him the picture of his four pals from North Dakota so I sent him the picture of you four boys. I almost know you boys by the way Lawrence used to talk about you.

It does a mother good to know that her son has met some nice boys and that they think so much of one another. So Bill write to him as often as you can as I know he will appreciate it. Of course Lawrence is awful to write himself. I sure have a time getting letters from him but still he isn't bad. I thought he would be worse but as long as I get a letter every so often that's enough for me. I just hope he is well and happy as I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and if ever you should be out this way I hope you will come to see us. You know you are always welcomed.

So Bill I wish you the best of luck and I pray and hope that this war will soon be over so all of our dear boys will come home to us so I will give you his address.

(The address is listed)

P.S. When you write to him tell him that I wrote you. He will be gald to hear it again. Thanks for you card.

Love,

Mrs. Mario Moise

Niles Calif.

P.O. Box 223

JANUARY 1944 - PAGE 22

2008-02-15T15:33:00.004-05:00

The shakedown cruise to Bermuda lasted about six weeks which places us roughly at the beginning of 1944. Perhaps that was when mail was picked up. Maybe this U. S. Coast Guard Magazine was waiting for William with his mail in port. All that servives of this issue (in William's memorabilia) is the cover of the January 1944 issue.

"You can't train thousands of Navy fledglings to split the flight deck of a converted lake steamer with their landing gear without having a few of them spin into the drink. But the Navy is ready for just such an emergency and has the crash boats that get there in times so that the embrionic wearer of the golden wings ususally suffers little more than a ducking. We are proud to have a hand in this rescue work. For it is the Sterling Admiral (Vimalert design), Petrel and Dolphin engines that power many of these fast, dependable little craft."
"Kia ora says the New Zealander when he wants to give you his best wishes. It's a down-under way of telling you that you're a pal and that your welfare is a matter of mutual interest. The American soilder says if another way. Have a "Coke", says he, and in three words he has made a friend. It's a custom that has followed the flag from the tropics to the polar regions. It's the phrase that says, Welcome, neighbor from Auckland to Alberquerque, from New Zealand to New Mexico. 'Round the globe, Coca-cola stands for the pause that refreshes, - has become the high-sign between friendly-minded people. * * * In news stories, books and magazines, you read how much our fighting men cherish Coca-Cola wherever they get it. Yes, more than just a delicious drink, "Coke" reminds them of happy times at home. Luckily, they find Coca-Cola - bottled on the spot - in over 35 allied and nuetral countries 'round the globe."
". . . She's a Marine - and a camera sharpshooter of Marine Aviation. Her rank is Sergeant . . . Sgt. Florence _________ (full name ommitted by regulation), of the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Her cigarette is Camel - the favortie with men in the Marines, in all the services. 'I like everything about Camels,' says Sergeant Florence, 'especially their freshness!' That's right, Seargeant Florence! Camels stay fresh - they're packed to fo round the world!

"CAMERA GUNNER! Sergeant Florence (shown at the left) aims her special aerial camera at the terrain far below - and when the film is developed in the Photo Laboratory . . . FEW SECRETS ARE HIDDIN from the penetrating eye of Sergeant Florence's camera! In the photo Lab (below), over a smooth, fullflavored Camel, Sergeant Florence,right, with a technician study her 'shots'."

TAKING CARE OF THOSE AT HOME - PAGE 21

2008-02-14T16:50:00.004-05:00

Going out to war is dangerous business. It could also be dangerous for those who stayed behind. What if the young family at home needed help? What if some tragedy were to occur? What were they to do? The Coast Guard had their young men fill out this form letter to send home to their wives or, as in William’s case, to their parents (pictured below).

Here are some excerpts from that letter:

Dear___________:

Hold on to this letter; it will tell you a lot of things you may need to know while I’m away. The Coast Guard wants you to have this information so that you will know about, and be prepared to benefit from, the assistance and protection to which you are entitled.

First, there’s my service number:__________. Always use it when writing the Navy Department or other official organizations on service matters concerning me. Give them by (sic) name, rating (or rank) and service number, like this ___________.

I’ve applied for family allowance and you should receive each month $____.

(… Various allotments of money and information on life insurance . . .)

On the back of his letter is a list of my valuable papers and where to find them. You may be asked to furnish certified or photostatic copies of my birth certificate and (in the case of wives) our marriage license, so be sure to have them available.

Now for the “ifs” in life that might come up:

If you need advice on medical problems or hospital treatment, talk to your local Red Cross Chapter.

If you can’t meet any of our debts, or pay our commercial life insurance premiums when they are due, see the Chairman of your State Bar Association, the American Red Cross, or a veterans’ organization, about the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act.

(…)

If I am wounded, you may be notified, although of course I will probably be writing you myself. If I am disabled, and entitled to disability benefits after my discharge, these will be arranged through the U.S. Veterans’ Administration, Washington 25, D.C.

If I am reported missing, missing in action, or captured by the enemy, my pay and allowances will go right on. My insurance allotments will continue and so will any allotment for the support of a dependant, if designated as such.

(…)

If I should die while on active duty, you are entitled to six month’s pay in a lump sum. Claim blanks for this will be sent to you. If you do not receive them, write Headquarters. Settlement will also be made of any pay remaining due me, and any savings on deposit with the Paymaster. Claims are paid by Headquarters and the proper forms will be sent by them without request.

(…)

Remember the agencies that can help you – Coast Guard Headquarters, Coast Guard or Navy Relief Society, the American Red Cross, The Veterans’ Administration, and the welfare and recreation officer and chaplains at any Coast Guard or Naval Station, ready at all times to guide and assist you.

Signature

Rank or rate

Service No.

WHAT IS A DESTROYER ESCORT? - PAGE 20

2008-02-12T15:34:00.003-05:00

The USS Pride (DE-323) was an Edsall-class destroyer escort built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Between World War I and World War II the United States made little to no effort to design or produce escorts. So in 1941, sensing a serious need, the U.S. Navy Bureau of Ships produced its own escort design known as the Destroyer Escort (DE). They played a significant role in the successful movement of materials to the war fronts in the Atlantic, Pacific, and the Mediterranean theaters.

Although orders had been placed for 1,005 DEs. only 563 were actually constructed. The United States Coast Guard provided offercers and crew to man 30 of these DEs. Each ship consisted of about twelve officers and 165 men.

In general the Coast Guard-manned DEs were of the following general description: Their length was 306' with a displacement of 1200 tons. They were powered by twin diesel engines with 6000 shaft horsepower producing about 21 knots. Armament consisted initially of three 3-inch/50 caliber multipurpose guns; one quad 40 millimeter anitaircraft mount; ten 20 millimeter antiaircraft mounts; and a triple 21-inch torpedo tube mount. Anti-submarine equipment included stern depth charge racks, eight depth charge K-guns, and a forward projectile throwing "hedgehog." DEs were equipped with sonar and air/surface radar and a combat information center (CIC) for battle control, and also carried smoke generator equipment for possible convoy protective use.

These vessles were "rough riding" and did not possess the seaworthy qualitites of most cutter designs. William Valencheck remembers many men aboard with serious cases of sea sickness. Men would tie themselves into their bunks so that they would not end up on the deck during a rough voyage. Eating sometimes provided its challenges and anicdotes about using the head or taking a shower were shared and for the these we will allow the reader to use his imagination. But the ships did have speed, maneuverability. and range to carry out their ocean escort mission.

The USS PRIDE served in the Atlantic Ocean the Pacific Ocean and provided destroyer escort protection against submarine and air attack for Navy vessels and convoys. She returned home proudly at war’s end with three battle stars and then entered into service for the U.S. Coast Guard before final decommissioning.

She was named in honor of Ensign Lewis Bailey Pride, Jr., who was killed in the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, 7 December 1941. She was laid down by the Consolidated Steel Co., Orange, Texas, 12 April 1943; launched 3 July 1943; sponsored by Mrs. Lewis Bailey Pride, mother of Lewis Bailey Pride, Jr.; and commissioned 13 November 1943, Comdr. R. R. Curry, USCG, in command.

The above information was taken from Wickapedia and from an article written for the US Coast Guard acadamy Alumni Bulletin March 1987 by C. R. Peck, class of 1943

A LETTER FROM BROTHER STAN - PAGE 19

2008-02-01T13:01:00.000-05:00

TO: Wm. Valencheck
c/o Fleet Post Office
N.Y., N.Y.
U.S.S. Pride (DE 323)

FROM: Sgt. Stan Valencheck
Hdq. 6 11th Tank Bn.
10th A.D. A.P.O. 260
Camp Gordon, GA

Hi “Mate”:

You got me waiting Chuck. What’s up, they got you in jail again or what? If you’ve been out Bill, give ‘em lots a hell for me and you both. I only wish I was there with you. Lots a luck fella.

Well, I’m still here at Gordon Bill and things are going same as usual. Taking things easy lately. Playing quite a bit of ball lately but not running around much due to lack of funds. I don’t know why but for some reason about the last three months I’ve always been broke. Before that I had money all the time. But I’ll straighten that (*) out this pay day. Ain’t it?

I just got a letter from “Oh”, you know, one of those long, long ones. Is that the kind you get? I sure enjoy reading them but I don’t know how the hell they can think of so much to write. Makes me and you look sad, aint it? "Oh" said that they haven’t heard from you in a long time either. Bet Mom worries like hell. You know how she is. I got a swell package from Nell too. Remember how we used to argue with them? Especially you! Now I miss them, don’t you? I even miss you, you (*). Aint it?

One of my buddies was telling me today that they’re now selling old G. I. Motorcycles from 30 to 50 bucks. We don’t have them in our division anymore so they’re selling them. The M.P.’s are the only ones that have them now. If I get a chance I’m gonna get one. Some of them are still in pretty good shape. I used to ride the (*) out of them before. If I get one I’ll take it home and on furlough with me. Make good time that way. I’m not sure yet but I think I’ll get a leave next month. Or in May. I’ll let you know for sure. Hope you can get home at the same time. Think there’s any chance?

Boy the weather down here has really been swell for the past four weeks or so. Up until Sunday anyhow. The sun’s still out. The company went out into the field Mon, but I got a break. I’m staying in garrison as Sgt. of the Guard till they get back which will be about Weds. Boy, we sure spend a lot a time in the field since we've been here at Gordon. We were out for three days last weeks on a big problem. Our platoon fired real H.E. and smoke ammunition over attacking troops. It’s pretty much fun firing the mortar. You ever seen it fired? In the past two weeks I fired 14 rds. of smoke and 10 rds. of H.E. at about 18 bucks a piece. Boy I wish I had all that money.

Well Chuck, guess I’ll be saying so long for now. Hope to hear from you soon. Take it easy.

Your brother,

Stan

FROM VALVES TO VALVES - PAGE 18

2008-01-30T16:30:00.000-05:00

This is a press release to the Barberton Herald, the hometown of William Valencheck. The photo credit is U.S. Coast Guard. During his time aboard ship William ran the evaporators mentioned in the last post supplying the ship with salt free water.

From Valves to Valves

Coastguardsman William Valencheck, fireman first class of 393 3rd Street, Barberton, home of Pitcairn Valves is shown operating a valve aboard a destroyer escort convoying supply ships across the Atlantic for the battle of Germany.

NOTICE! - PAGE 17

2008-01-25T08:10:00.000-05:00

This note printed on onion skin paper was given to the men of the USS PRIDE when they left Orange, Texas on their shakedown cruise.

NOTICE

THE SHIP WILL SAIL SOMETIME TODAY. WHEN WE LEAVE, THE SHIP WILL BE UNDER BLACKOUT CONDITIONS AND ALL MEN ARE CAUTIONED ABOUT SMOKING ON DECK OR OTHERWISE SHOWING LIGHT. NEVER THROW ANYTHING OVER THE SIDE, NO MATTER HOW SMALL OR TRIVIAL WITHOUT PROPER AUTHORITY TO DO SO. THINGS THROWN OVER THE SIDE, SUCH AS CANDY WRAPPERS, ETC., WILL LEAVE A TRAIL AND MAY DIVULGE OUR PRESENCE TO THE ENEMY. DO NOT TALK TO ANYONE ABOUT EXPECTED ACTIVITY OR MOVEMENT OF THE THE SHIP.

AFTER THE SHIP SAILS, THE WATER HOURS WILL BE SET AND ALL MEN ARE CAUTIONED TO USE ONLY THE AMOUNT OF WATER ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. VEGETABLE PEELER WILL BE FURNISHED WITH SALT WATER ONLY. NO MATTER HOW MUCH WATER THERE SEEMS TO BE ON HAND, IN THE EVENT OF EVAPORATOR FAILURE, THE SHIP MAY BE SHORT OF WATER BEFORE REACHING PORT. TODAY WILL BE THE LAST DAY OF UNLIMITED WATER SUPPLY SO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT AND GET YOUR GEAR AND PERSON CLEANED UP.

THE COMING SHAKEDOWN CRUISE IS FOR THE EXPRESS PURPOSE OF EACH MAN LEANING HIS JOB AND LEARNING IT WELL, THE BETTER EACH MAN KNOWS HIS JOB THE BETTER FIGHTING UNIT WE WILL BE AS A WHOLE AND THE BETTER CHANCE WE WILL ALL HAVE IN COMBAT.

ALL ELECTRIC RAZORS WILL BE TURNED IN TODAY TO THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER. AN ELECTRIC RAZOR IN USE CAN BE PICKED UP BY ENEMY SHIPS AND YOU MIGHT BE INTERRUPTED IN THE MIDDLE OF YOUR SHAVE WITH A BOMB OR TORPEDO. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ANY MAN BE EXCUSED IF FOUND TO HAVE AN ELECTRIC RAZOR IN HIS POSSESSION. IT IS KNOWN THAT SEVERAL SHIPS OF A CONVOY WERE LOST DUE TO A SMALL RADIO PLAYING WHICH WAS PICKED UP BY A ENEMY SUBMARINE. ANY ELECTRIC APPLIANCE, NOT AUTHORIZED, PUT IN USE IS A DETRIMENT TO THE SAFETY OF YOUR SHIP.

SHAKEDOWN CRUISE - PAGE 16

2008-01-24T13:10:00.000-05:00

The USS PRIDE DE 323 was commissioned on 13 November 1943. Under the command of Commander R. R. Curry, USCG of Washington D. C., she proceeded to Bermuda for her shakedown cruise. After six weeks of intensive training there, she was judged ready for her assigned task. Below is the aft of the USS PRIDE during part of her shakedown cruise. Undated picture.

Everyone needed to get thier sea legs including Saltine, the ship's mascot. William recalls the waves breaking over the side of the ship and the dog barking and chasing the receding water.

BOARDING THE USS PRIDE IN ORANGE TEXAS - PAGE 15

2008-01-20T15:58:00.000-05:00

The time for training is over. The troop trains take the men down to Orange, Texas where they will meet the newly completed ship USS PRIDE DE-323. This picture, dated 27 November 1943, shows the crew in formation on the docks looking on at the PRIDE. To their left are the officers and to the right you can see the Sousaphones for the band and some chairs at the edge of the dock for visiting dignitaries. The caption on the picture below read, "Lee - Ensign Compton - Ensign Murphy
As part of the day the crew came aboard ship and they had a flag raising ceremony pictured below. Valencheck is second from the right in the first row.
Finally the crew assembles for a picture aboard the USS PRIDE. Valencheck is third from the right in the last row. A ship resembling the USS PRIDE is seen in the background.
The ceremonies over, it is now time to start the serious business of war.

SOME PARTING SHOTS OF WAHPETON

2008-01-10T13:05:00.000-05:00

A troop train now takes our new graduates to Orange, Texas where they will become the first crew of the new U.S.S. Pride DE 323. But before heading off to Texas here are a couple of pictures left from Wahpeton.

GRADUATION DAY - COMPANY 12 READY TO SHOVE OFF - PAGE 13

2008-01-08T13:39:00.000-05:00

The Prairie Schooner announces the graduation of Company 12 and the end of their time at the North Dakota State School of Science.

A newspaper article clipped from the Barberton Herald, William's hometown newpaper, reads:

WILLIAM VALENCHECK IN COAST GUARD CLASS

GREAT LAKES, Ill., July 29th. - William Valencheck, 22 son of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Valencheck, 393 Thrid Street, Barberton, member of the U. S. Coast Guard, has completed 16 weeks of instruction at the U. S. Naval Training School for machinist's mates at the North Dakota State School of Science Whapeton, N. D., and now awaits assignment to active duty.

The diploma reads, "This certifies that VALENCHECK, William S2c has satisfactorily completed the prescribed course of study at the U. S. NAVAL TRAINING SCHOOL (MACHINIST'S MATE) WAHPETON, NORTH DAKOTA this 17 day of July 1943.

George Fender III, Lt. Comdr. D-V(S) USNR

OUR LAST SAIL ON THE PRAIRIE SCHOONER - PAGE 12

2008-01-03T14:18:00.000-05:00

This is the last issue of the Prairie Schooner that we have as it is almost good bye to North Dakota State School of Science for Company 12 and hello Texas. Here are a couple of stories from the 16 July 1943 edition.

NAVY TAKES FIRST CHINESE FOR SUB COMBAT DUTY.

Fong On Git, better known to his shipmates in New London and Wahpeton as Daniel Fong, graduated from the basic course at the Navy Submarine Base, New London, Conn., several weeks ago with a standing of sixth in a class of several hundred.

Danny graduated from the Machinist Mate School here at Wahpeton on April 17 and was sent to Submarine Base instruction before entering combat duty with the U. S. Navy Submarine Force. He is believed to be the first Chinese ever to be accepted for submarine combat duty in the United States Navy.

According to word received from New London after completion of his basic course at that school, he had been an exceptional student – attaining a grade of 3.78 – a perfect grade is 4.0.

As a result of his high standing (and being the) first Chinese to serve on American submarines, the Mayor of Chinatown in New York and several other Chinese dignitaries feted him at a dinner and presented him with a wristwatch. At the dinner, Danny had difficulty handling his chopsticks because he had not used them for so long.

Fong was born in Kwantung Province, China, the son of Noon Fong, an American citizen. While a boy, he went to a Catholic mission school and learned English and Chinese. When he was seven years old he and his father left two younger brothers and his mother to come to San Francisco.

He went to public schools and was graduated from Galileo High School in June, 1942. In August, he reached his seventeenth birthday and two months later joined the Navy. Upon completion of his “boots” he spent four months here at Wahpeton (. . .)

In direct contrast to his barracks which houses 200 men, Fong has a suite to himself in the Hotel Ambassador in New York for his stay there.

A NOTE OF FAREWELL TO COMPANY 12

Precision and exactness as to machining has been the keynote of all of your training for the past four months at this (facility). With this intense training you have reached a full realization of the paramount necessity of perfection in the proper repair and maintenance of all types of machines. This training in precision and exactness you can apply to yourselves as men and perfect yourselves in your military duties so that you will be just as dependable and efficient as the machinery which you have been learning to keep in perfect working order.

There is a degree of tolerance in machining that you keep to a minimum. Learn to keep within that degree of tolerance in yourselves.

I want to congratulate you upon being a very fine company also to thank you for the cooperation that you have given the school officials and your officers. May you carry that same spirit to your future places of duty.

The very best of luck to each of you.

GEORGE FENDER, III
Lt. Comdr., D-V (S) USNR,
Commanding Officer

NEWS AND VIEWS AROUND THE BARRACKS

SECTION “P”
By Lawrence Moise

In last week’s SCHOONER, there was a little mistake about who made Company 12 the best-looking Company on the drill field every Saturday. I think it was mostly due to Sam Kerr, our Company Leader. All of the Coast Guard seem to have done pretty well as Company Leaders and Section Leaders. Lots of luck to a swell bunch of guys.

SECTION “A”
By Alfred A. Buss

We are glad to express our congratulations to Company 12 on their coming graduation, and wish them very good luck.

(…)

The highly lauded Ship’s Company didn’t bother Sections A and B in the least. They remembered Farragut’s motto: “Damn the Torpedoes – Full Speed Ahead!” After the second inning Ship’s Company was getting plenty seasick.

The highlight of the game was when the much publicized Ship’s Company got their first three batters on base, but lo and behold, their 22-caliber rifles started to shoot blanks and their runners died on base.

Nivens showed them what a 16-inch gun was like when he hit a long line drive over the left fielder’s head. Incidentally, he was still chasing the ball when Niven’s crossed home plate.

OUT OF THE G.I. CAN

Saw a comment the other day that the figures on the rapidly increasing number of divorces would indicate that America is still the land of the free. True enough, but the large number of marriages indicate that it is also the home of the brave.

ADMIRAL MORSELL, DIST. SUPPLY OFFICER VISITS STATION

By Arnold E. Simonton, Yic

Admiral Everett Morsell, who just this week received notification that he had been nominated by the President for appointment to the rank of Rear Admiral, made a short visit to the Naval Training Station Wednesday afternoon. While here, he made a hasty but thorough inspection of the Supply Department while several other officers who accompanied him delved into the problems of the educational program followed here and also as to the success of our War Bond Drive.

The pilot of the Lockheed Lodestar plane, Lt. O. O. Keifer, literally brought the big plane in on a prayer.

Approaching the field from the east, he was forced to use the short runway for landing. He found it necessary to use full flaps and to set the plane down immediately after clearing the telephone poles and wires just across the highway from the field, His landing was a beautiful three-point, attesting to the skill of the man at the wheel.

At 3:45 p.m. the huge plane the largest that has yet landed on the local field, roared down the grass-covered runway, lifted easily into the air and winged towards Kansas City, bringing to a close the first visit by an Admiral to this station.

(SECTION “E” by J. E. De Vito)

Mr. Ness did quite a business on his famous “Hotel Register” last Wednesday in Shop Knowledge by marking all the fellows who were on the self appointed “Admiral’s Reception Committee.”

According to the boys, it was worth losing a few points to see an Admiral land on the station. After all, they don’t come here every day.

PICTORIAL REVIEW OF ADM. MORSELL’S VISIT TO WAHPETON TRAINING SCHOOL

DRESS INSPECTION! - PAGE 11

2007-12-31T19:42:00.000-05:00

Some notes from the last issue of the Prairie Schooner.

OUT OF THE G. I. CAN

In the parlor there were three -

She, the table lamp, and he.

Two is company, there is no doubt

So the table lamp went out!

Suzie: "With all the good men in the armed services, it's pretty hard looking for a husband these days."

Que: "Just the same, if I were you, I'd leave the husbands alone and look for a single man."

TRAINEES RECEIVE SWIMMING INSTRUCTION FROM CHIEF BIDWELL

In accordance with the navy's policy that every sailor shall be a swimming man, the Wahpeton swimming pool at Chahinkapa Park is being used exclusively by the men stationed at the U.S. Naval Training School (MM), Wahpeton, N. D., each weekday morning. Expert instruction in the art of swimming is being given by Chief Bidwell and it is expected that every non-swimmer will soon be able to pass the Navy Standard Swimming Test.

In order to pass the Navy swimming test, each sailor must swim 50 yards.

ATTENTION

Men, here's a real bargain! Here's a chance to save five cents every time you go swimming during liberty! If you will stop in at the Ship's Service Store before going on liberty, you can purchase a swimming tickets for only TEN CENTS. THAT'S A SAVINGS OF ONE WHOLE NICKLE. If you wait until you get to the pool, it'll cost you fifteen cents.

DISAPPOINTING ABOARD THE PRAIRIE SCHOONER - PAGE 10

2007-12-27T21:13:00.000-05:00

The 2 July 1943 edition of “The Prairie Schooner” has the single world, “disappointing” scribbled across the top of it. Could that be in reference to the lead story?

IVAN LEROY MOFFETT, Flc, OF CO. 4 ONE OF 18 SURVIVORS OF TORPEDOED TANKER, VISITS TRAINING STATION.

Francis Patrick Sullivan, Who Was Also a Member of Co. 4, Was One of 28 Men to Go Down With the Ship

One of eighteen survivors of a ship sunk by a Jap submarine, Ivan LeRoy Moffett, Flc, paid a short visit to the Station Wednesday afternoon while on leave en route to his home in Ohio.

Moffett, a member of the former fourth company, was sent to Bremerton, Washington in October, 1942 along with Francis Patrick Sullivan. These two men were assigned to a tanker.

For months, everything went smoothly when suddenly one evening the routine was shattered by the intrusion and resultant explosion of a torpedo. Not a man had seen the submarine nor the slight wake of the speeding missile. The torpedo struck amidships and in just fifteen minutes after the explosion, the seas was again as calm and peaceful as it had been before hell broke loose. Of a crew of 46 only 18 men are today alive to relate the details of horrible aftermath to that dastardly attack. Sullivan was one of those men who made the supreme sacrifice in this second “war for democracy.”

Moffett and 17 other men, clad in life jackets, managed to get over the side of the ship before it settled in its watery grave. Forming a circle arm-in-arm, the men floated in that freezing water for 7 hours before being picked up by a destroyer, which deposited the battered survivors ashore. Moffett’s only injuries were a wrenched arm and great nervousness resulting from the ordeal.

In the sinking, Moffett lost all personal belongings. When the ship docked, he found it necessary to borrow a pair of trousers and a dress jumper and hat from a buddy in the Navy. With this borrowed outfit on his back and ten dollars in his pocket, which his captain had loaned him when he was granted a leave, he set out for home in Magnetic Springs, Ohio. Because that ten dollars was his only money, he was forced to hitchhike, and he did exactly that – using the ten dollars for good. In fifteen days his leave will end and he will return to await assignment to another ship. He’s going back – back to take an active part in the battle for freedom.

BLOG NOTE: You may recognize the name of the author of the next article from the last addition of The Prairie Schooner. Also, hold the news of the strikers in contrast with the letter William’s sister N. sent him about the striker in Barberton.

INDEPEDENCE DAY?

By En, Adna M. LeCount

July 4, 1776 Jefferson boldly brought before a group of foreseeing men the Declaration of Independence for the signatures. The second paragraph of this document says: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that all men are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” With this creed before them, our forebears fought and won the American Revolution.

Today we are in the midst of world battle to uphold these same truths, which to our forebears seemed “self-evident.” Before we were fighting on nation wide fronts; today we are fighting on worldwide fronts. Before, we were faced with very little economic backing; today, we are backed by the greatest economic structure in the world. Before, democracy had not been tried by these people; today we have had one hundred and sixty-seven years of democratic living to show that government by the people does bring about the greatest good to the greatest number. We have advanced so much economically, socially, and politically that surly we must win.

And yet, some of our strongest and most vital industries are being weakened by striking workers – the steel and coal industries. In several areas we are cursed with race riots, which are a strict reversal of our belief that all men are created equal. Some workers in defense industries are slacking on the job, taking unnecessary days off. Food shortages are appearing everywhere. Internal rumblings of discontent are slowing us down, crippling us. On the fighting fronts, however, our men continue to fight bravely with the equipment and supplies they have at hand.

We should each examine ourselves and ask: “Am I doing my part”? “Is there anything I can do to make the part of the fighting men easier”? “Am I wholeheartedly helping this fight for our ‘self-evident’ truths”? If the answer is “yes,” then there is true cause for celebration. If the answer is “no,” think back to our forebears, to our nation’s tradition, to our whole history! You’ll find that you do not want to answer to be “no.” Will you do something about it?

NEWS AND VIEWS FROM AROUND THE BARRACKS

Section “P”
By Harold Nichols

Well, it looks like Sections M and N are pretty quiet now. Could it be that 14-12 defeat handed them by Section O and P in softball?

It seems we have a few “60-minute” men in our section. One being our great baseball catcher, “California” Moise while another is our pet, “Joker” Valencheck. Val has played so many tricks on the boys that they think he stay awake nights thinking them up.

Section “E”
By J. E. DeVito

Fyda and Stanish must really have something on the ball. Last weekend they went to Fergus Falls and returned Sunday with not only a couple of nice looking “Playmates” but driving a ’41 Packard. Not bad, boys.

“I don’t mind when a sailor loses his hat to get a girl but when he loses both his hat and the girl I have no respect for him.” These were the words of Co. Adjutant A. R. Johnson after escorting Benson, Wierson, and Hovel back to the base, when they lost their hats while talking to some girls on liberty last week.

When the fire whistle blows, drop everything and get to your fire post. A good example of this is G. Stole of Section 5 who was resting comfortably in his bunk when the alarm wounded during a recent Fire Drill. Within a matter of seconds he was at his post with a blanket around his waist and ready for action.

THE “SCUTTLEBUTT”

Brown evidently goes for the intellegencia. Hear tell he’s now squiring a little school marm from Great Bend and also hear tell she thinks he’s the berries.

Looks like Mr. Whitehouse started something when he got that convict hair cut. Brown, Gall, Selid, Younger, Kwansy, Tilly and Parrett have followed suit. Tilly’s evidently wasn’t too well received for ‘tis rumored there’ll be no more “butches” in Sick Bay. It was rumored that a certain Lt. (jg) would have his head shaved if a certain Yeoman 1st class would get a butch. Guess they’ll both keep their hair.

DEAR MR. & MRS. VALENCHECK - PAGE 9

2007-12-24T14:33:00.000-05:00

This letter was sent to the parents of sons selected for further training which did serve Mr. Valencheck very well throughout the rest of his life.

U.S. NAVAL TRAINING SCHOOL
MACHINIST'S MATE
NORTH DAKOTA STATE SCHOOL OF SCIENCE
WAHPETON, NORTH DAKOTA

April 6, 1943

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Valencheck:

As you probably know, your son has been selected for advanced training as a Navy man. He has been enrolled at this school for this purpose.

During the sixteen weeks he will be here, he will be given a specialized course of shop instruction and related class instruction which will prepare him to work for an advanced fireman's and machinist's mate's rating.

This letter is to assure you that we are intensely interested in giving him valuable training. Upon successful completion of the course, he will be eligible for promotion in rate and pay. He will have an education in a skill which will increase his value to the Navy and be of great worth to him upon his return to civilian life.

Please feel free to write us for any information you may desire regarding his welfare or his progress in school.

Sincerely yours,
George Fender III
Lieut. Commander, USNR
Commanding Officer

MORE NEWS FROM SCHOOL - PAGE 8

2007-12-19T21:14:00.001-05:00

Highlights from 18 June 1943 Volume II, No.2

YEOMAN DOROTHY ASKEW VISITS OLD HAUNTS WHILE HOME ON LEAVE

When Dorothy Askew, Y3c, WAVES, former secretary to Mr. Riley, walked into the office last Monday, everyone thought she was one of those WAVES whom, according to rumor, we were supposed to get months ago. However, she soon revealed that she was home on a nine-day leave.

Yeoman Askew is at present stationed Washington, D. C. Although she is not too fond of Washington, D. C. and its over-crowded conditions, she says, “The WAVES is a wonderful organization.” For those who are not “in the know” the correct translation of the letters WAVES is Women Accepted for Voluntary Enlisted Service.

FIRST MEMBERS OF “WAVES” TO REPORT FOR DUTY MONDAY

Monday, June 21, will be a genuine “red-letter” day in the history of the U. S. Naval Training School at Wahpeton, N. D. On that date, Ensign Adna M. LeCount, W-V (S) USNR will make her appearance on our station as Assistant Disbursing Officer. Miss Lecount will have the distinction of being the first member of the WAVES to be assigned to active duty in the State of North Dakota.

For many months “scuttlebutt” was prevalent to the effect that we were going to be invaded by members of the Women Accepted for Voluntary Enlistment Services, but it is only now that the Bureau of Naval Personnel has seen fit to actually send us a member of the fair sex as Ensign Hughes’ assistant.

Ensign LeCount has just completed her training at the Naval Supply Corps School, Graduate School of Business Administration at Harvard University, Boston, Mass.

OUT OF THE MAIL BAG

The Editor of the PRARIE SCHOONER:

Just a little note from those two wandering pharmacist Mates to let you know that haven’t forgotten the old school back in Wahpeton. Last time we received mail I received a copy of the SCHOONER from some kindly soul back there and it made me feel very good to read all the news and gossip; just like being home. Honestly, though, I keep every copy and reread them several times, so keep them coming.

Our sea duty so far has been just swell. Neither one of us has gotten sea-sick so it goes to show that we had some good training on the good ship “Wahpeton.” Our duties aboard ship are very similar to those at Wahpeton but we did have an exciting thing happen. Baker and I both assisted in an operation out at sea. It was an emergency appendectomy and a pretty ticklish job. However, everything went smoothly and the patient is up and about now. Otherwise our life is routine but if keeps us pretty busy.

Chow is good aboard ship and for recreation we go topside and work out with the punching bag and rowing machine. We have movies every night and aside from the above-mentioned things that is the extent of our recreation.

(.)

Well that’s about all there is to tell so I’ll close.

Regards,
KERMIT L. FRIEDMAN, PhM1c
c/o Fleet Postmaster,
San Francisco, Calif.

SECTION “F”
By R. C. Jones

First of all the fellows say they can hardly wait until the softball tournament gets into full swing. They feel confident that will go pretty far toward the finals. Now if we can win just one game before this is published, this write-up won’t look so foolish.

Many of the boys have acquired some new nicknames since being in camp. Section Leader Mulready is widely known as “Chief” in his section, although some still insist he should be called “Wolf”. Then there is “On the Hour, Every Hour” Pederson. We took a vote whether or not we should call a certain fellow, “Rabbit”. Twenty-nine fellows voted we should and Recknagel said we shouldn’t so Recknagel will be known as “Rabbit” Recknagel from now on.

OUT OF THE G.I CAN

Note to Trainees: Without crowding the Emily Post field of endeavor, it can be mentioned that one way of showing your Navy savvy is to take off your hat in theaters and restaurants. Only green hands think they can wear their hats anyplace.

The type of boatswain’s pipe now in use in the Navy is reputed to have been designed by King Henry VIII when he was Prince of Wales. The pipe itself dates back to the days of the Crusades when it was used as a signal for attack.

For every woman who makes a fool out of a man, there are a hundred who make a man out of a fool.

THE “SCUTTLEBUTT”

Well, the men in Sick Bay have finally taken Simonton’s name off his bed there. They decided he looks so healthy since his marriage that he’ll cause them no more trouble.

THE PRAIRIE SCHOONER - PAGE 7

2007-12-16T14:45:00.000-05:00

“The Prairie Schooner” was “An Occasional Log of United States Naval Training School Operating at North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton”. It was mailed home to “B-town” with a circle around the paragraph that mentioned Valencheck’s name.

In Volume one, number 24 dated 15 May 1943 it is reported that, “Cooper’s Band Jives for Formal Dance in Gym.”

Our newest company, the 13th, was welcomed aboard at a formal dance held in the gym on Wednesday, May 5. The local gals donned their finest long dresses to come out and jump with this newest group of hep-cats (and some of the old ones).

Bunky Cooper’s band of collegiate musicians from Moorhead State Teacher’s College furnished the jive, and jive it was because they left their music in Moorhead and had to jam most of the pieces to cover the parts they forgot. Maybe I shouldn’t have told you that little secret because most of the rug-cutting jitterbugs didn’t seem to know the difference.

Lt. Comdr. Fender and nearly all the other officers attached to the school were present with their wives to help make this a gala occasion. The dance was sponsored by the local USO with the smiling “Mrs. K” right there to greet her boys. Each departing company pays tribute to the fine work she is doing in making their liberty periods more enjoyable. Dances like this are just another contribution of the USO toward the welfare of the armed forces.

OUT OF THE G. I. CAN:

Big Sailor (Paul): “Thay myster, than you tell me the time?
Little Sailor (Carter): (No response.)
Big Sailor: “Thay, I asked you the tyme.”
Little Sailor: (Still no response.)
So as Big Sailor walked away a bystander asked Little Sailor why he hadn’t answered, his reply being – “Thhink I wanted a punth in the moth?”

Joe Yardbird answered the phone in his Norfolk apartment, He said: “I don’t know. Call the weather bureau,” and hung up.
“Who was that?” asked his wife.
“Some sailor, I guess. He wanted to know if the coast was clear.”

THE SCUTTLEBUTT

It has been noted lately that “Chief Chef” Holtz can cook something other than ham or beef.

That little bird who gives out with the correct dope has it that Gil Landis and Simonton are going to take the long trek on the same day come June: Why not make it the same church and have a race down the aisle?

We’re going to miss the Cook and Baker Strikers in the chow hall. So long mates, keep Tex out of trouble and don’t let Ossie get another “heinie.”

SECTION P

The boys from Section “P” and some of the boys from Section “O” wish to thank all those who made it possible for us to have the new head up in the penthouse of Barracks 1. It’s very convenient for all.

We don’t want to seem unreasonable but the tables that were “extracted” from the recreation hall are getting worn pretty well and we would appreciate a few “new” ones. How about it? Very subtle aren’t we?

Well, the boys of Section “P” are getting along fine and are saying that North Dakota has California beat completely for screwy weather except Seaman Volk who is a native “farmer” of N. Dak.

Everyone was certainly surprised to hear that Coastguardsman Valencheck is attending church supper at Wahpeton next Sunday. I wonder what the attraction could be? Maybe a little something called “Corky.”

Congratulations, Mr. Whitehouse and Mr. Davis, on your promotions as we feel that you both deserve them.

OFF TO ENGINEERING SCHOOL - PAGE 6

2007-12-13T09:22:00.001-05:00

Having finished a run on the Ball Brothers it was back to Cleveland for evaluation testing that separated William from some of his boot camp buddies and led him to North Dakota to what he referred to as the Naval Trainings School to learn engineering. As near as we can tell this would be the University of North Dakota School of Engineering and Mines. Here is the picture of the school in the summer of 1942.

In the 1940's the school's enrollment dropped dramatically to about 775 students most of whom were women. "The campus became a virtual military camp, with thousands of military men and women training here."

And down they go!

Harold Nichols sporting an expert swing with a tennis racket is the only man identified in these pictures from the scrap book.

POST CARDS FROM THE GREAT LAKES ABOARD THE BALL BROTHERS - PAGE 5

2007-12-09T17:47:00.000-05:00

After boot camp the new recruits were assigned to guard the ship Balls Brothers as it sailed the Great Lakes. The Balls Brothers was a laker ship built by the American Shipbuilding Company in Lorain, Ohio in 1905 and was still sailing the Great Lakes in 1942 when William was assigned to sail aboard and guard it as it made its way up through Lake Erie through Sault Sainte Marie to Duluth, then back to Buffalo, New York, finally ending at a Coast Guard Station. (The ship was scrapped in 1963.)

During this time he sent his sister “Oh” (pictured with him here) three postcards. The first is postmarked Gulliver, Michigan, 21 November 1942. Over the “PLACE STAMP HERE” box in the upper right corner the word “FREE” is written.

From: Wm. Valencheck A.S.
c/o Steamer Ball Bros.
Marine Post Office
Detroit, Mich.

Hi Oh

We are now in Port Island and from here we go to Buffalo. I’ll drop you a card at each port so until then, Adios.

Bill

The second postcard addressed much the same way is post stamped Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, 2 December 1942.

Hi Sis,

Another card for you. The next one you get from me will be big enough to write a short story on it.

I haven’t gotten any letters for two weeks since we haven’t been down to Detroit for that period of time. We should be there Thur.

Bill

The last post card in this set was indeed a long one. In fact it was three feet long. It was postmarked in Buffalo, New York in December of 1942 and addressed to Miss Olga Valencheck.

December 4th, 1942

Hi Sis,

I got your letters today and nine others. The others were mailed last week some time and I couldn’t get them until today.

Here is that card I was telling you about and I think you will need a bigger scrapbook to put this one in.

The last trip we made was the roughest trip I ever went on. When we got to Duluth our boat was covered with ice and you would think it was a floating iceberg. Every wave that came along would cover our deck and almost the pilothouse. When I get home I’ll tell you more about it and about going through Sault Sainte Marie. I think I did mail you a card from there.

We are going to hit Lake Erie now and they say that it is stormy and that a boat and its crew went down.

This is the only letter I got from you so if you mailed one Monday, I didn’t get it.

We had a swell Thanksgiving dinner with turkey, ice cream and pie, and a bottle of beer and cigars and cider too to top it. It was plenty good. (hic burp)

I got a letter from Stan and he gave me all kinds of hell for not writing to him. I guess he forgot that he sent me a card and telling me not to write until he finds out where they send him.

I’ve got a lot to say but I (will) wait until I get home and tell you all about it so until again,

Adios

Bill

THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD FOURTH PLATOON, FAIRPORT STATION - PAGE 4

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On the back of the picture dated February - March 1942 are some of the names of the men in this picture.

Row one - 1. Pinkley 2. F. Vinel 3. Bomboti 4. Hanson 5. Morrcillo 6. Bonner 7. Daily, Chief P.O. 8. William Valencheck (None of the other men are listed in this row.)

Row two - 1. (not listed) 2. C. W. Prepelica 3. A. W. Smith 4. Joe Kroll 5. (not listed) 6. C. E. Rhodes (None of the other men are losted in this row.)

Row Three - only the last man is listed in this row. His name is J. Delia

LETTER FROM HOME - PAGE 3

2007-12-06T15:16:00.000-05:00

The most impenetrable black out of information was during the time of boot camp in Marblehead and the time immediately after. About the only information from this period comes from a long letter sent to him from his sister N. Part of that letter is reproduced for you here.

Post marked 10 October 1942, Marblehead, OH. Addressed to A. S. William Valencheck.

Wednesday

Hi Brother,

What do you suppose we have in our office?? Cuspidors!! Hundreds of them! They perch bold as you please, one at each desk - - grim reminders of the pre-war days when the B & W offices were the daily workhouse of only those humans who wore trousers. Now we women have invaded the joint, and try as we may, we can’t get rid of these “spit-tunes”. I find “Adolph” at my desk every day. Now I’m resigned to the fact that he’s waiting for his old “boss” to come back - - so I’m not trying to get rid of him anymore. Because I want is old owner to come back from the war some day just like I want you and Stan . . . to come home.

(edited paragraph)

Now - - your last letter was swell. Everybody says so - - even “your sister” Mary from 4th street - -she’s still in on all our family happenings. We’re glad that you’re getting along well at school because we all want you to make good. Especially Dad. Man - - that guy is so proud of you and Stan, he wears a smile on his face every time he talks of you just as if it were a badge of honor. You know, Bill, if you and Stan could understand just how much Dad is counting on you, you’d never let him down for even a minute. And Mom too – She “nags” too much at times but under it all, she wouldn’t trade sons for the world.

And talking of Mom - - Gee, did you make her happy on Mother’s Day! She was so pleased because you remembered her - - and the rest of us were please with you because you pleased her. You’re just proving that we’re right when we think that you’re a pretty swell fellow. The only thing was that your card didn’t come till Monday – Mom didn’t say a word but we knew she was disappointed. (edited) Mom had a nice day – Joe got her the most beautiful bouquet of mixed flowers you ever saw. Tee got her a dress, Oh gave her $5 and so did I. She got a permanent and looks snazzy - -she always did, if you’ll remember, when she took time out to dress up. We still have to give her “hell” every time she goes out of the house, in order to get her to dress up. Mothers!!

(edited paragraph)

The Valve is out on a strike again! Recently the government stepped in and it was decided that the whole shop would get a 9-cent raise. They still haven’t gotten it. Now some guys didn’t pay their union dues and the committee wouldn’t let them in to work; so the Valve fired the committee. Now they’re on strike again for that. Darn it, I hope they make it a darned good one this time and get everything they want. That joint is so stinken in its employee policy they ought to lite a match to it - - it’s own smell would be enough to blow it up!!

Thursday

Just about there the bell rang yesterday and my time wasn’t my own anymore. Was going to finish this at home but did my washing and ironing (aren’t you glad you aren’t a woman?) and by the time that little job was finished it was 11 bells and I was too sleepy to write. So there you are.

Bob Johnson is home again. He must have had a 14-day furlough this time because he’s been home for about 10 days now. Johnny was supposed to be home too but won’t be able to make it till tomorrow so the boys will be together for a while anyway. I wonder if the furloughs mean that they’ll be leaving for overseas soon?? With the good news of the war over in Africa (comes the realization) that things will get even worse now with fighting in Europe and then in Asia with the Japs. We’re all praying that it won’t take long now but we’re afraid things will drag out.

Yesterday Mrs. Heimbaugh was here and she gave us the news that both Art and (?) are going to be fathers soon. My goodness, they still seem like kids, don’t they? The one that’s in Calif., now he is going to have to come home soon because he’s gonna have to go into the army. We saw some pictures that his wife sent form Calif. and now I can understand why you liked the place so much. It’s beautiful. I guess everything is pretty (high) now (though), so outside of the beautiful scenery and nice weather, I don’t suppose people there are any better off than we are. And then we don’t have earthquakes! Oh yeah - - - what about our tornadoes? Oh told you about that - - we never get in on the excitement! I slept through the “slight” earthquakes that shook Barberton.

(edited paragraphs)

We saw Galie Sunday and he told us that he’d be leaving for the service in two weeks. He asked about you boys. I guess he feels left out of things at home . . . he’s anxious to go. I guess most of the boys are because things at home just aren’t like they used to be and the sooner the war’s over (the sooner everyone does his part) the sooner things will be O.K. again.

(edited paragraph)

Do you suppose you might be able to come home next time Stan comes? It would really be wonderful if both you boys could be home at the same time - -we’d really have a family reunion!!

(edited paragraph)

Has Oh told you about how well Tee came out at bowling this year? With their league winnings, tournament money and everything, she won over $35. Pretty good, no? Oh and I haven’t done much bowling but I’m gonna join a league next season again - - or sell my ball.

(edited paragraph)

You know, Bill, I’ll just bet you do get a Petty Officer’s rating. That would be swell. I know a girl whose husband is a P.O. in Norfalls and it’s a stationary position. He’s making pretty good money too! It would be swell if you could get into something like that. But you’d be put into something which would include duty at sea, wouldn’t you? We all love to hear of your schooling and what things are like there - - so make your letters longer and tell us all about it.

Gonna have to close in order to mail this on the way home. I know that I’ll think of lots more to tell you but it will have to wait. Until your next letter then, love from the whole family and lots from me.

N

You remember Mary Bruriski - - Her stepmother died so Mary is home now. And Maine Zadel & Joe Nayeste got married. So did Ann Garbor. And Fran Udovich (DeBevec) is gonna have a baby. Time goes on (and life) war or now war doesn’t it??

FIRST ORDERS, SUMMER 1942 - PAGE 2

2007-12-05T16:03:00.000-05:00

Like many veterans after the war, William never spoke much of his experiences in the Coast Guard. Even letters from home at the time were constantly imploring him to write more often and to tell the family how things were with him and what it was he was undergoing. Both the letters (at least the ones that survive) and they few stories that he would tell later on were largely concerning the less gruesome, even pleasant aspects of being in the service. As a result, his children would never have a firm grasp of what took place during those war years in the life of their Father. Histories of the ship, well documented pictures (thanks to his sister “O”), numerous letters back and forth, and newspaper clippings help piece the story together during the upcoming years, but these early years still remain murky.

Here is page one of his original application for enlistment. It is dated 22 July 1942, though by his own recollection, William lists the day he actually joined the Coast Guard Reserves as 10 September 1942, not too far from his 22nd birthday.

Orders came soon after this application was accepted. The following letter is perhaps the least well preserved of everything that was saved over the years. It is well worn and ripped at its folds as if it were kept in a wallet for some time. The letter is reproduced in part below this scanned copy for easier reading. It is hard to imagine what the young man was thinking as he began reading this letter from the Coast Guard soon after enlisting, aware of war breaking out all over the world.

NAVY DEPARTMENT
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD
CLEVELAND, OHIO

From: COPT, Cleveland, (Sandusky, OHIO)
To: Valencheck, William
Subject: Orders; armed guard detail aboard Steamer Ball Brothers.

1. Upon receipt hereof, proceed immediately to the Steamer Ball Brothers and report to the master for armed guard duty aboard that vessel.

2. You will be quartered and subsisted at Government expense and you will remain aboard the vessel until properly relieved. Liberty will be of secondary importance and may be granted by the master at his discretion for a period not to exceed four (4) hours while the vessel is in port.

3. You will be governed by the regulations contained in the reference (c) and you are directed to learn, understand, and fully execute your duties as set forth therein. You will be furnished a copy of references (c) unless a copy is already in the possession of the master. In the latter case, the master will make his copy available to you for your information, study, and guidance.

4. You will be furnished suitable small arms unless Coast Guard firearms are already in the custody of the master. In the latter case, such arms will be made available to you when required for the proper execution of your duties. You are directed to handle, use, and store such arms in full compliance with the safety precautions set out in reference (c).

5. Travel under this order will be performed by Government conveyance. No mileage expense is indicated and none is authorized.

PERMANENT DUTY STATION:
COPT, CLEVELAND (Sandusky, OHIO).

Randolph H. Thompson
By Direction

THE OUTBREAK OF WAR - PAGE 1

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The Greatest Generation is disappearing. According to Veterans Administration at the beginning of this year there were approximately 5,032,591 veteran of World War II still living in the United States but they are dying at the rate of 1,136 a day. As they die so do many of their memories.

Sometimes the memories die before the veteran does himself. Our Father, MoMM3c William Valencheck who served aboard the USS Pride DE 323 and who is now confronting the ravages of Alzheimer’s at the age of 87, has lost much of his memory. Though he never would talk much about his experience of WWII, he cannot now even if he were so inclined.

In putting his estate together there was revealed a sizable cache of his memorabilia from WWII. There were letters from old girl friends, pictures of fellow guardsmen, drawings, and other mementos that for us are disconnected from actual people and events. Unsure what to do with all of these images of memories that are in some way treasures, his children thought to begin this blog and post the various items from week to week.

The intention is not so much to focus on MoMM (Motor Machinist Mate) William J. Valencheck or even to give an in depth historical analysis of the war, but to give a snap shot of some of what a crew member aboard a U.S. Coast Guard ship during the great war held on to as memories.

THE OUTBREAK OF WAR

World War II broke out on 1 September 1939. The world was already in great unrest when Germany invades Poland without a formal declaration of war. But for those living in the United States, it was a war taking place “over there”. Though tense times, this was not yet seen as something that Americans as a whole felt a need to be involved in.

That all changed on 7 December 1941 when Japan attacked our naval forces at Pearl Harbor. On 8 December the United States declared war on Japan. A few days later, Germany and Italy declared war on the U.S.

Perhaps the darkest period for the Allied forces was the late summer of 1942. In the Atlantic Germans subs were sinking Allied ships at an alarming rate even up to the shores of the States and the Gulf of Mexico. It was during this time that William Valencheck, age 21 without informing his parents, enlisted to serve in the United States Coast Guard Reserve.

Those who were approaching a recruitment office for the Coast Guard would have been given this information sheet. It is interesting to note the changes in the requirements made in red, which is not unlike what we are experiencing today. The top of the age requirement was raised from 34 to 54 and the level of education was lowered from a high school graduate to completion of the eighth grade:

Of course a physical examination was necessary:

Then it was off to training. Here we see Wm Valencheck on leave before being deployed with his Mother and Father.