Person Page - 80

Lucille Ruth Brikhous was born on 27 November 1925 at Doon, Lyon County, Iowa.¹

Lucille Ruth Brikhous married Leroy W. Fields, son of Byron Fields and Lelia Moore Smith, on 4 February 1950 at Luverne, MInnesota.¹

Lucille Ruth Brikhous died on 18 January 2009 at Denver, Colorado, at age 83.¹

Barbara Bunch was born in 1941 at Peoria, Illinois.¹

Barbara Bunch married Earnest Byron Fields, son of Leroy W. Fields and Dorothy Sena Willroth, on 20 May 1965 at Peoria, Illinois.¹

Barbara Bunch died on 14 November 1966 at Peoria, Illinois.¹

Dela Vernice Fields was born on 18 January 1943 at Luverne, Minnesota.¹

Dela Vernice Fields married Norman Allen Benefiel on 21 April 1962 at Commerce City, Colorado.¹

Dela Vernice Fields died on 18 August 2008 at Las Vegas, Nevada, at age 65.¹

Curtis Roy Fields was born on 2 April 1944 at Luverne, Minnesota.¹

Curtis Roy Fields died in October 1945 at Luverne, Minnesota, at age 1.¹

Allen Fields was probably born on 19 April 1953 at Beardsley, Minnesota.^1,2

Allen Fields probably died on 24 April 1953 at Beardsley, Minnesota.^1,2 He was probably buried at Saint Anthony Cemetery, Lismore, Nobels County, Minnesota.²

Robin Engbarth was born in 1955 at Denver, Colorado.¹

Robin Engbarth died in 1955 at Denver, Colorado.¹

David John Fields was born on 7 January 1948 at Luverne, Minnesota.¹

David John Fields married Claudia (--?--) at Pine, Colorado.¹

David John Fields married Kathleen (--?--) in 1990.¹

David John Fields married Toni (--?--).¹

David John Fields married Sharon (--?--).¹

David John Fields died on 19 January 2004 at Missouri at age 56.¹

Deborah Kay Fields was born on 1 December 1960 at Dawson, Minnesota.¹

Deborah Kay Fields married Larry Chavez in 1978 at Brighton, Colorado.¹

Deborah Kay Fields died on 25 November 1990 at Dawson, Minnesota, at age 29. She died of ovarian cancer.¹

James Oliver Retrum married Linda Lee Fields, daughter of Irvin John Fields and Adaline Bernice Krahn, in 1967 at Dawson, Minnesota.¹

James Oliver Retrum died.¹

(--?--) (Baby) Fields was born on 14 November 1966.¹

(--?--) (Baby) Fields died on 14 November 1966.¹

Byron Joseph Fields was born in 1981.¹

Byron Joseph Fields died on 12 January 1999.¹ He was buried at Greeley, Colorado.¹

Sara Fields died.¹

George Lawerence Baldwin was born on 30 March 1936 in Montana.⁴ He was injured in an accident near Medera California on an unknown date . His father, Otha Leonidas Baldwin, was fatally injured in the accident. His pet Chihuahua dog, Lubie, had also been in the car. The dog was missing after the accident. The dog was recovered a few days later after a "county-wide search". It was found by Joe Urrutia. George Baldwin had earlier been quoted (apparently while still hospitalized following the accident, possibly before his father died from his injuries) as saying "My dad and my dog are my only best friends." The newpaper story said "George cried with happiness when the word (or the dog's recovery) came."^5,6,1,3,7 His Social Security Number was 516-38-4780, issued in Montana in 1952.^2,4

George Lawerence Baldwin died on 19 January 2003 at age 66. He had lived in Longwood, Seminole County, Florida shortly prior to his death.^2,4

Wylie Miles Baldwin was born on 26 October 1931 at Missoula, Montana.²

Wylie Miles Baldwin (listed as Wiley M De Wit, appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of Piltzville (unincorporated area -- also referred to as Princinct 22 and as Bonner), Missoula County, Montana in the household of his mother, Peter Cornelius De Wit, and stepfather, Ethel E Brunson, at Highway No. 10. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. He was listed as: age 8, single, attended school during March 1940, had completed two years of schooling, born in Montana, and lived in same place on 1 Apr 1935.³

Wylie Miles Baldwin died on 16 December 2016 in North Carolina at age 85.²

Clifford Henry White was born on 13 March 1909 in Missouri (but certain conflicting information suggests he was born in California).^1,2,3

Clifford Henry White married Ruth Adel Powers circa 1927.

Clifford Henry White has not been identified in the 1940 US Federal census.⁴

Clifford Henry White appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts at 6 Water Street, enumerated 23 April 1940, The home was listed as rented for $20 per month and not on a farm. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. , Ruth was listed having lived in Redwood, Madera County, California on 1 Apr 1935. Ruth was listed as age 32, married, born in Massachusetts, not attending school in March 1940, and having completed 4 years of high school. Ruth was listed as not employed for wages, keeping house, and not seeking work the week of 24-30 March. No occupation was listed for her. She reported 0 weeks worked in 1939, no wage income, and other income (other than wages and salary) in excess of $50. The population schedule indicates a farm schedule was not filed for this household. It is possible her husband was not at home when the census enumerator visited because he was working on a ship (freighter). Boston seems to have at least two different Water Streets. The one of interest here is in the Neponset District of the city, near the south end of the city. It is a few blocks east of Garvey Park and a few blocks south of Tenean Beach (these are 2016 names for these landmarks; they may have had different names in 1940).. This appears to be the family of Clifford Henry White, even though his is not listed with them. The location of the family's residence, near a waterfront, suggests that he could have been in military service or working in the merchant marine at this time.⁵

Clifford Henry White and Ruth Adel Powers appeared on the 1945 Florida State Census of Lake Wales (Precinct 28), at Polk County, Florida. The residence was outside of Lake Wales. Their children Clifford Henry White Jr., Irene Vivian White, June Leona White, Donald Robert White, Lorraine Anita White, Thomas White, Luella White and Clinton White were listed as living with them. Clifford and Ruth were listed as ages 36 and 37, respectively, and born in Missouri and Massachusetts, respectively. He was listed as having a high school education and employed in the US Merchant Marine. She was listed a having a college education and employed as a cook.⁶

As indicated above, the 1940 census information for the family of Clifford White seemed consistent with him being in the US military (stationed at a post where he could not take dependents) or else being a merchant seaman. A Clifford H White appears on the crew manifest of a ship entering Honolulu (apparently) in August 1945. The ship is the U.S.A.T Evangeline, where U.S.A.T. stands for US Army Transport. This ship appears to have a civilian (commercial) crew, which is one of several ways the crews of such ships were organized during World War II.

The information on the manifest page indicates White was age 36, his position in the ship’s company was Oiler, he had served “at sea” for 1 year (unclear if this was total merchant marine service or it was just the time on this particular ship), he had “shipped or engaged” on 20 April 1945 (this is probably when he had left the U. S. on this particular ship), was not to be discharged at this port (Honolulu), could read, was a U.S. citizen, and was height 5’ 11” and weight 184 pounds.⁷

Clifford Henry White entered San Quentin State Prison, Marin County, California, on 16 January 1946 initially to serve a term of 0-25 years (which was apparently later set at a term of 12 years). He was apparently assigned a prisoner number of A3001. He had been convicted in Tulare County Californina. He was listed as married, a protestant, had 10 years of schooling, and his normal occupation was listed as sheet metal worker. His height was listed as 5 ft 9 inches, weight as 156 pounds, brown hair and brown eyes, and age 36. His next of kin (or contact person) was listed as a brother, Fred White (General Delivery, Visalia California). The record appears to indicate that his term was set at 12 years on 9 Jan 1947, but the notation is only partially legible. There is no indication of when he was released, parolled, or transfered to another institution.³

Clifford Henry White died on 8 February 1970 at the Milner Hotel, 1121 7th Street, Sacramento, Sacramento County, California, at age 60 (time of death listed as 11:00 PM).^1,2 He was buried at Sanger Cemetery, Sanger, Fresno County, California. His death certificate indicates he died at his usual residence and the cause of his death was coronary thrombosis. His occupation was listed as "body and fender man" in the automotive industry (for various employers) and he was said to have had this occupation for 20 years at the time of his death. His marital status was listed as divorced. His social security number is listed as "Unknown" on his death certificate. The death certificate indicated the names of his parents were unknown, but his father was believed to have been born in Kentucky and his mother was believed to have been born in Oklahoma. The informant for the death certificate was his eldest son, Clifford Henry White Jr.^1,2

Clifford Henry White Jr. was born on 14 October 1929 in Connecticut.^4,2,3

Clifford Henry White Jr. appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts in the household of his mother, Ruth Adel Powers, at 6 Water Street. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. He was listed as: age 10, single, attended school during March 1940, had completed two years of schooling, born in Massachusetts, and lived in Redwood, Madera County, California on 1 Apr 1935.⁵

Clifford Henry White Jr. appeared on the 1945 Florida Census of Lake Wales (Precinct 28), at Polk County, Florida in the household of his parents, Clifford Henry White and Ruth Adel Powers. He was listed as age 15 and born in Connecticut. He was listed as having a grade school education and he was a student.⁶

He was listed as the informant on the death certificate of his father, who died 8 February 1970. His residence at that time was listed as 130 Alameda Place, San Bruno, California.⁷

Clifford Henry White Jr. lived in July 1983 at San Francisco, California.¹

Clifford Henry White Jr. died on 10 January 2001 at 7:55 PM at 1917 S. Chesnut Avenue, Apt #79E, Fresno, Fresno County, California. He died at his usual residence. His social security death record gives the date of death as 15 Jan 1970 and indicates his last residence was 1917 S. Chesnut Avenue, Apt #79E, Fresno, Fresno County, California.^2,3

His Social Security Number was 263-36-6572, issued in Florida before 1951.² He was buried at South Park Cemetery, Rosewell, New Mexico.³

Donald Robert White was born on 13 May 1935 at San Mateo County, California.^2,3,4

Donald Robert White appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts in the household of his mother, Ruth Adel Powers, at 6 Water Street. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. He was listed as: age 4, single, did not attend school during March 1940, had not completed any schooling, and was born in California.⁵

Donald Robert White appeared on the 1945 Florida Census of Lake Wales (Precinct 28), at Polk County, Florida in the household of his parents, Clifford Henry White and Ruth Adel Powers. He was listed as age 10 and born in California. He was listed as having a grade school education and he was a student.⁴

Donald Robert White lived in July 1983 at Fresno, Fresno County, California.¹

Donald Robert White acted as an informant for the death certificate of his brother Clifford Henry White during in January 2001. At that time, his residence was listed as 4712 E. Normal, Fresno, Fresno County, California.⁶

Donald Robert White died on 16 November 2012 at age 77.⁷

Donald Robert White's Social Security Number was not yet available as of Nov 2014, card was issued in California before 1951.⁷

Lorraine Anita White was born on 19 July 1936 at Tulare, California.^3,4,2

Lorraine Anita White appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts in the household of her mother, Ruth Adel Powers, at 6 Water Street. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. She was listed as: age 3, single, did not attend school during March 1940, had not completed any schooling, and was born in California.⁵

Lorraine Anita White appeared on the 1945 Florida State Census of Lake Wales (Precinct 28), at Polk County, Florida in the household of her parents, Clifford Henry White and Ruth Adel Powers, She was listed as age 9 and born in California. She was listed as having a grade school education and she was a student.⁴

Lorraine Anita White married Rex Roland Day on 19 September 1953 at Fresno County, Califronia.^1,6

Lorraine Anita White lived in July 1983 at Clovis, Fresno County, California.¹

Lorraine Anita White died on 2 December 2004 at age 68.⁷ She was buried at Sanger Cemetery, Sanger, Fresno County, California.⁷

Rex Roland Day was born on 14 January 1929.^2,3

Rex Roland Day married Lorraine Anita White, daughter of Clifford Henry White and Ruth Adel Powers, on 19 September 1953 at Fresno County, Califronia.^1,2

Rex Roland Day died on 21 July 2009 at age 80.³ He was buried at Sanger Cemetery, Sanger, Fresno County, Califronia.³

Merwin Eberle was born on 3 December 1902 in Kansas.¹

Merwin Eberle married Ruby Payne, daughter of George A. Payne and Ida May Fields, on 28 August 1941 at St. John's Church, 3125 Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. The application for their marriage license gives his age as 35 and his address as 712 NW 41st Street, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. The application gives her age as 28 and her address as 512 NW 9th Street, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. The certificate of marriage further identified the church as Protestent Episcopal and stated the marriage was performed by Paul R Palmer, Rector. The certificate indicated the marriage was performed in the presence of Elmer Dowler and Marnelyn Rene Wilson (?)^2,1

Merwin Eberle died on 15 December 1978 (4:15 PM) at Pomona Valley Community Hospital, 1798 North Garey Avenue, Pomona, Los Angeles County, California, at age 76.¹ He was cremated. His death certificate lists the following location in connection with his remains at 18255 S. Vermont, Los Angeles Roosevelt Memorial Park. It is unclear if his remains are interred at this location, or if this only represents where his body was cremated. His death certificate indicates the cause of his death was cardiac arrest in conjunction with caronary artery arteriosclerosis (he had triple bypass surgery in June 1977). In addition, he had diabetes. His usual address at the time of his death was 664 Hood Drive, Claremont, Los Angeles County, California. His occupation was listed as real estate development (self employed). He was listed as having been in that business for 20 years. His surviving spouse was listed as Rubye P. Eberle of the same 664 Hood Drive address.¹

Merwin Eberle's Social Security Number was 446-24-3014.¹

Calvin Benett Williams was most frequently known as Calviin B Williams.^5,6 He was born on 13 September 1877 in Lee County, Virginia.^2,3

Calvin Benett Williams appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of East Center Township, Greene County, Missouri in the household of his parents, Perry W Williams and Mary Ann Lawson.⁴

Calvin Benett Williams married Mary B Tilda Dodson, daughter of Thomas Dodson and Arah Ann Davidella Fields, on 5 September 1902 at Springfield, Greene County, Missouri.¹

Calvin Benett Williams and Mary B Tilda Dodson appeared on the 1910 Federal Census of Center Township, Greene County, Missouri, enumerated 28 April 1910, The home was listed as owned and was mortgaged. It was on a farm and a schedule was submitted for the agricultural census. The official date of that census was 15 April 1910. Their son Gault Williams was listed as living with them. Calvin Benett Williams and Mary B Tilda Dodson were listed as ages 32 and 27, respectively, born in Virginia and Missouri, respectively, both married for 7 years, both in first marriage, and both able to read, write, and speak English. Calvin was listed as being employed as a farmer on a home farm (on his own account, self-employed). No occupation was listed for Mary. Mary B Tilda Dodson, listed as "Tilie," who was reported to have given birth to one child who was still living.⁷

Calvin Benett Williams lived on 12 September 1918 at 321 Hovey, Springfield, Greene County, Missouri. His draft registration gave his date of birth as 13 Sept 1877. His occupation was listed as conductor, Springfield Traction, 1405 Boonville, Springfield, Greene County, Missouri. His nearest relative was listed as Mary Artella Williams at 321 Hovey, Springfield, Greene County, Missouri. His height was listed as short, build as stout, brown eyes, black hair.⁸

Calvin Benett Williams and Mary B Tilda Dodson appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of North Campbell Township, Greene County, Missouri at Kearney Street (with the symbol "x" listed instead of a house number), enumerated 2 January 1920. The home was listed as owned and mortgaged, and not on a farm. The official date of that census was 01 January 1920. Their son Gault Williams was listed as living with them. Calvin Benett Williams (listed as "Cal B" in this census) and Mary B Tilda Dodson (listed as "Tilie A") were listed as ages 42 and 37, respectively, born in Tennessee and Missouri, respectively (which may the reverse of the information they intended to give to the census taker), both married, and both able to read and write and to speak English. Calvin’s occupation was listed as a laborer for a railroad company (as a worker). No occupation was listed for Mary.⁹

Calvin Benett Williams and Mary B Tilda Dodson were divorced in June 1921.²

Calvin Benett Williams married Ollie Belle Rogers in September 1921.^2,3

Calvin Benett Williams and Ollie Belle Rogers appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of North Campbell Township, Greene County, Missouri, enumerated 14 April 1930. Their ages were listed as 52 and 28, respectively, born in Kentucky and Oklahoma, respectively, both married, ages at first marriage were 24 and 15, respectively, both did not attend school the previous year, and both could read, write, and speak English. The home was listed as rented for $13 per month, and not on a farm. A radio was not listed as being present in the home. The official date of that census was 02 April 1930. Their children Mary M Williams and Wayne B Williams were listed as living with them, along with Ollie Belle Rogers's daughter, Willie Roberta Fesperman. Calvin was listed as employed as a salesman at a medicine company (as a worker). No occupation was listed for Ollie.⁵

Calvin Benett Williams and Ollie Belle Rogers appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of Springfield, Greene County, Missouri at 1805 Kansas Street, enumerated 3 April 1940. The home was listed as owned, valued at $150, and not on a farm. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. Their children Mary M Williams, Wayne B Williams and Joanna Sue Williams were listed as living with them. All members of the household were listed as having lived at the same place on 1 Apr 1935. Calvin was listed as age 63, married, born in Missouri, not attending school in March 1940, and having completed 8 years of schooling. Ollie (whose name was initially transcribed as Allie by Ancestry.com) was listed as age 38, married, born in Oklahoma, not attending school in March 1940, and having completed 8 years of schooling. Calvin was listed as employed, not seeking work, and worked 40 hours during the week of 24-30 March. His occupation was listed as laborer as a private industry worker. He reported 25 weeks worked in 1939, $300 wage income, and no other income (other than wages and salary) in excess of $50. Ollie was listed as not employed for wages, keeping house, and not seeking work the week of 24-30 March. No occupation was listed for her. She reported 0 weeks worked in 1939, no wage income, and no other income (other than wages and salary) in excess of $50. The population schedule indicates a farm schedule was not filed for this household.⁶

Calvin Benett Williams died on 29 September 1955 at 1622 W. Dale Street, Springfield, Greene County, Missouri, at age 78.^2,3 He was buried on 2 October 1955 at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens, Springfield, Greene County, Missouri. His death certificate indicates he died at his residence. The cause of death was listed as chronic myocarditis, with several contributing factors including senility, asthma, and broncho-pneumonia. The certificate lists his usual occupation as food handler at Wilshire Cheese Co. The name of his spouse at the time of his death is listed as Ollie Belle Williams. The informant for the death certificate was listed as Wayne Williams, whose address was 1618 W. Dale Street, Springfield (possibly next door to Calvin's residence).^2,3

Calvin Benett Williams's Social Security Number was 500-10-0667.³

David Edward Johnson was born on 15 March 1923 at Masontown, Fayette County, Pennsylvania.^1,3,4,2

David Edward Johnson (listed as David Johnson) appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of German Township, Fayette County, Pennyslvania in the household of his parents Philip Edward Johnson and Lela Mae Philips. The official date of that census was 02 April 1930. He was listed as age 7, single, attended school, and born in Pennsylvania. Her father and mother were listed as born in Pennsylvania.⁵

He graduated from German Township High School, McClelland, Pennsylvania, in 1940. He took at least one drafting course at the Pennsylvania State (College) Extensive Service Center in Uniontown, Pennsylvania in 1941.⁶

David Edward Johnson (listed as David Johnson) appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of German Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania in the household of his parents, Philip Edward Johnson and Lela Mae Philips, at 140 Cedar Avenue, enumerated 9 April 1940. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. He was listed as: age 17, single, attended school during March 1940, had completed three years of high school, born in Pennsylvania, and lived in same house on 1 Apr 1935. He is listed as a student, not employed for wages, and not seeking such employment the week of 24-30 March. No occupation was reported for him. No 1939 wage income was reported for him and he did not have non-wage income in excess of $50 in 1939.⁷

Between June 1940 and September 1941 he was employed by Edward Johnson Plumbing & Heating Co., Masontown, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, a family business, as an apprentice plumber. He installed, repaired, and renewed plumbing and heating in private homes. His income during that time was $100 per month.⁸

Employed as a pipe fitter at Pittsburgh Crucible Steel Co., Midland, Pennsylvania, between September 1941 and March 1943. Exact title was Pipefitter, first class. Salary was $40 per week.⁹

He was inducted into the US Army on 26 March 1943 at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was sent to Fort Meade, Maryland (reporting on 2 April 1943). Documentation stated his residence at that time was 20-B Midland Heights, Midland, Beaver County, Pennsylvania, and that he was registered for the Selective Service at Local Board #5 in Beaver County, Pennsylvania. He had completed 4 years of high school and had worked for three years as a pipe fitter, most recently in a steel mill. His civilian work duties included installation and repair of plumbing pipe lines carrying steam, water, air, and gases. He was listed as 72 inches (6 ft) tall, weighed 213 pounds, heavy frame, brown hair, brown eyes, and shoe size 11 ½ D. His armed forces serial number (issued at induction) was 33675219.¹⁰

He was in basic training 2 April 1943 to c10 July 1943 (two separate types or phases of training, apparently). The first type was in Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. The location of the second phase is unclear. He seems to have been transferred out of Fort Monmouth (or possibly out of the basic unit at Fort Monmouth) on 27 May 1943 (or possibly 29 May 1943), but he qualified as a marksman with several types of weapons during June 1943. It’s possible he may have continued in some type of advanced training at Fort Monmouth after completion of basic training. Family folklore is that he was briefly in Army Ranger training prior to entering the Army Air Force. His records indicate he was also at Jefferson Barracks (near St. Louis Missouri) during June 1943, but that seems to have been only briefly (a day or two) prior to being transferred to an academic training unit at Butler University.¹¹

An allotment of $22 per month to his mother as a “Class B dependent” seems to have been initiated on 1 May 1943, but discontinued on 31 July 1944 (the discontinuation on that date may have been because this particular payment stream was tied to his enlisted status, which ended when he became a commissioned officer, after which he had a different military serial number).¹²

He was stationed at Indianapolis, Indiana, in the 52^nd College Training Detachment at Butler University between 9 July 1943 and 2 October 1943. One document in his service record indicates his military grade at that time was Private, but another indicates it was “A/S” (apparently Aviation Student).¹³

He reported to Ellington Field, Between Houston and Galveston, Texas, for the Army Air Forces Pre-flight School for Bombardiers and Navigators (Class 44-1 B) on 14 November 1943, training in that unit until 26 Jan 1944. At this point, he was officially designated an Aviation Cadet.¹⁴

He was in Aerial Gunner training at Laredo Army Air Force Base, Laredo, Texas, between 26 January 1944 and 12 March 1944. This was required training for all bombardiers and navigators.¹⁵

He was assigned to flight training as a Bombardier at Army Air Force Bombardier School, Midland, Texas, from mid-March 1944 until July 21, 1944. He was a member of Class 44-10. On 8 May 1944, while he was in flight training at Army Air Force Bombardier School, Midland, Texas, his height was listed as 6 ft 1 in, and his weight was listed as 195 pounds.¹⁶

Discharged from army enlistment 21 July 1944 at Section "H" 2538th Army Air Force (AAF) Base Unit, Midland AAF Base, Midland, Texas, to accept commission as 2^nd Lt. in Army of the United States (AUS).¹⁷

Commissioned as a 2^nd Lt, AUS by order of AAF Central Training Flying Command, Randolph Field, Texas, on 22 July 1944. His new military serial number as a commissioned officer was 0-2065286.¹⁸

His initial orders following completion of his bombardier training (Special Orders No. 175, issued 21 Jul 1944) indicated he was to receive 15 days of leave prior to reporting back to Midland, Texas. However, those orders were superseded by new orders issued the following day (Special Orders No. 176, issued 22 July) indicating he was to report to Lincoln, Nebraska on 28 July 1944. Family folklore is that he and his fiancé planned to be married during the expected 15-day leave in late-July and early-August 1944. When his orders were changed, the marriage was delayed until September 1945.¹⁹

He was apparently assigned to a Control and Reporting Post (CPR) at Lincoln, Nebraska between 22 July 1944 and 26 Aug 1944, then to a base in Alexandria Louisiana between 27 Aug 1944 and 27 Oct 1944 for in-the-US non-combat flight duty in an “RTU” (probably readiness training unit), leaving there on 28 Oct 1944 for processing for overseas. He left the US on 21 November 1944 and arrived in England on 30 Nov 1944.²⁰

He was awarded the Air Medal on three occasions (5 January 1945, 1 Feb 1945, and 28 Mar 1945, i. e., Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters) while serving in the 359^th Bomber Squadron, which was part of the 303^rd Bomb Group (Heavy, or H) stationed at Molesworth, England, (the award citation gives a location of APO 557, a different location in England; APO 557 was apparently the location of the First Air Division, a command organization). A story within his family is that he received a minor eye injury during one of his combat missions over Germany. He declined to apply for a Purple Heart Medal for that injury because, after seeing fellow airmen being treated for serious wounds at the base medical center, it didn’t seem fair for him to receive a medal for a minor injury and/or highlighting the injury might have resulted in him being removed from active flight crew status (especially since the injury was near his eye and might have been suspected as affecting his vision).²¹

Promoted to 1^st Lt., AUS, on 27 March 1945.²²

He was assigned to the 303^rd Bomb Group at Molesworth, England, from 1 Dec 1944 until 18 May 1945. He completed at least 21 combat missions, had over 158 hours in aerial combat in the European Theater of Operations and (counting time both the US and in Europe) over 500 flying hours. After 18 May 1945, he was briefly assigned to the 410^th Bomber Squadron, 94^th Bomb Group in England. He returned to the US at Greensboro, North Carolina, arriving 29 Jun 1945. There are some inconsistencies in his service record as to the number of combat missions. In addition, he may have flown certain missions while “on loan” to other organizations, with the result that those missions are not on records compiled by the 303^rd Bomb Group. Several of his missions were flown as a member of the crew of the lead plane in the formation. Family folklore is that prior to each of the “lead crew” missions, he (and other members of the lead crews) spent several days at AAF facilities in London participating in some of the planning for the mission.²³

David Edward Johnson married Finice Cleo Chelf, daughter of Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko, on 10 September 1945.^24,1

Once in the US, following some processing and leave time, he was assigned to Midland AAF Base, Midland, Texas, for bombardier refresher training from 20 Aug 1945 until 25 Sept 1945. On that date (before completing the refresher course), he was transferred to a Separation Center at Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania. He was separated from the AUS (AAF) on 30 September 1945, but apparently was paid through 23 Oct 1944 (and formally released from active duty on that date; the extra time – with pay -- after 30 Sept 1945 was apparently to make up for leave time he was unable to take earlier, when on active duty). During a physical exam at the Separation Center, his height was listed as 6 ft 2 in and his weight was given as 228 pounds.²⁵

He was a 1st Lt. in the US Army Air Corps (and later US Air Force) reserves (USAFR) from 30 September 1945 until 15 April 1953.²⁶

He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross on 1 December 1945, after his active duty military service had ended and he had returned to civilian life. The award citation included the words “.. for extraordinary achievement while serving as Bombardier of a B-17 airplane on bombing missions over enemy territory from 12 Sept 1944 to 20 April 1945.”.²⁷

On 31 August 1950 he was a student attending Carnegie Institute of Technology (CIT) studying Mechanical Engineering. At that time, he still listed his permanent address as 72 “A” Street, Van Buren Homes, Beaver, Pennsylvania. Much later (~1967), CIT changed its name to Carnegie-Mellon University.²⁸

On 16 September 1951 he changed his permanent address (for use by the USAFR) to 400 Rose Avenue, Pittsburgh 13, Pennsylvania.²⁹

On 17 July 1952 he reported to the USAFR that his address was 400 Rose Avenue, Pittsburgh 35, Pennsylvania, (near the Carnegie Institute of Technology campus) but that his main occupation was self-employment as a partner in Johnson and Tilbrook Plumbing and Heating (no business address listed – on a different form he was called the “Co-owner and operator” of Johnson and Tilbrook). He stated that he had held that position for 6 years. He also reported completing 3 years of college and that he had 3 dependents as of this date. This report also listed prior employment for 6 months in the Texas Department of Highways as a Junior Engineer doing surveying and drafting. This report also listed 1.5 years employment as a pipefitter at US Steel. This last item (for which no specific date is given) may be the same ~1.5 years of “steel mill” employment that was reported prior to his entry into the military in 1943, but the previous employment was reported as at Pittsburgh Crucible Steel’s Midland, Pennsylvania plant. The best this compiler can determine, the US Steel Company did not purchase the Midland Pennsylvania plant at a later date.³⁰

He left the USAFR effective 15 April 1953.³¹

David Edward Johnson lived in August 1954 at 400 Rose Avenue, Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.²⁴

David Edward Johnson died on 28 October 1998 at Orange County, California, at age 75.^3,4

David Edward Johnson's Social Security Number was 181-14-8981.^3,4

Her death certificate spells her first name as Francis, but that is believed to be a typographical error.¹ Frances Elizabeth Johnson was born on 22 April 1913 in Pennsylvania.¹

Frances Elizabeth Johnson died on 1 May 1913 (2 AM) at Nicholson Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania.¹ She was buried at Mennonite Cemetery, near Masontown, German Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania. Her death certificate gives the cause of her death as congenital debility due to premature birth. The death certificate also lists her father as the informant. It lists his address as RFD Smithfield, Pennsylvania, which might provide further insight into the location of her death (the address of the physician who signed the death certificate was also listed as Smithfield, Pennsylvania).^1,2

Pearl May Johnson was born on 10 September 1918 at Pennsylvania.¹

Pearl May Johnson (listed as Pearl May Johnson) appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of German Township (Precinct #6), Fayette County, Pennsylvania in the household of her parents, Philip Edward Johnson and Lela Mae Philips, enumerated 27 January 1920 The official date of that census was 01 January 1920. She was listed as age 1 by the Ancestry transcriber (but age 1 1/12 on the handwritten form, suggesting she was born around November 1918) and born in Pennsylvania. Her father and mother were listed as born in Pennsylvania.²

Pearl May Johnson died on 27 July 1921 (3:30 AM) at German Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, at age 2.¹ She was buried at Menonite Cemetery, near Masontown, German Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania. Her death certificate indicates the cause of her death was scarlet fever, with deptheria and menginitis being contributory factors. The informant on her death was her father. His address was listed as Masontown, which probably provides more indication of the location where she died (the address of the physical who signed the death certificate is also listed as Masontown, Pennsylvania).¹

Her name was listed as Treo Finis Chelf on her birth certificate (roughly "third and last" in Latin), but had been changed to the name given about by the time of the 1930 census.² Finice Cleo Chelf was born on 1 September 1924 probably at Houston, Texas.²

Finice Cleo Chelf appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas in the household of her parents, Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko, at 617 Arlington. She was listed as age 5, single, born in Texas, and attending school.³

Treo Finis Chelf appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas in the household of her older sister Alpha Ruth Chelf, at 617 Arlington. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. She was listed as: age 15, single, attended school during March 1940, had completed one year of high school, born in Texas, and lived in the same house on 1 Apr 1935. She was not employed and not looking for work because he was attending school. She reported no 1939 earnings and did not have income other than wages or salary in excess of $50.⁴

Finice Cleo Chelf married David Edward Johnson, son of Philip Edward Johnson and Lela Mae Philips, on 10 September 1945.^1,2

Finice Cleo Chelf died in November 2005 at Anaheim, Orange County, California, at age 81.²

Her name was listed as Baby Female Johnson on her death certificate.² Mary Elizabeth Johnson was born on 19 August 1954 at Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.²

Mary Elizabeth Johnson died on 19 August 1954 at Magee Hospital, Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.² She was buried at St Peters Cemetery, Lemmington Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her death certificate lists the cause of death as prematurity and states that she lived only two hours. The informant on the death certificate was her father, David Johnson, whose address is listed as 400 Rose Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennslyvania.²

Felding Harvey Chelf was born on 24 December 1885 at Mt. Sherman, Kentucky.^3,4,5 Felding Harvey Chelf has also been encounterd with his name listed as Fielden Harvey Chelf and Harvey Fielding Chelf.³

Felding Harvey Chelf appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of Magnolia Precinct, Larue County, Kentucky in the household of his parents, Elza C Chelf and Mary Elizabeth Clopton. He was reported as age 14, born in Kentucky, single, and attended school for 7 months the previous year.²

Felding Harvey Chelf and George W Chelf, who were brothers, appeared on the 1910 Federal Census of Denver, Denver County, Colorado at 2115 Curtis Street, enumerated 21 April 1910. They were listed as roomers in the household of David M Whitney. The home was owned (by Whitney) and was mortgaged. The official date of that census was 15 April 1910. Felding Harvey Chelf and George W Chelf were listed as ages 24 and 19, respectively, born in Kentucky, both single, and both able to read, write, and speak English. Felding Harvey Chelf was listed as being employed as a barber (and a worker, not self-employed). He was employed on the date of the census and reported 16 weeks of unemployment during 1909. George W Chelf's occupation was listed as a farmer (and in the "out" industry -- possibly meaning he was normally employed "out," away from his residence?). He was not employed on the date of the census and reported 9 weeks of unemployment during 1909. Others listed in the household (in addition to the head of household, Whitney) are Caroline C (--?--), Myrtle E Nokes, Estella (--?--), Jennie G (--?--), William X Moxon, Edward Anderson, Arthur Anderson, Marie E Fay, Herman J Gabrielson, Allie W Giles, Mary K Bottorff and James J Meighen. All of the members of the household appear to have been able to read and write. Several of the above-listed people are roomers, similar to the Chelf brothers. Some relationships (to the head of household) listed on the census form are difficult to read because some type of notation has been written in this column, over the relationship. The notation seems to be used for adult women who have had children, but who are not married to the head of household.⁶

Felding Harvey Chelf married Gladys Miczanko, daughter of Steve Lawrence Miczanko and Esta Barton, circa 1915.¹

Felding Harvey Chelf (listed as Fielden Harvey Chelf) lived at 12 September 1918 at 617 Arlington, Houston, Harris County, Texas. His occupation was listed as barber (self-employed) with his place of business as 114 W 12th, Houston, Harris County, Texas. His height was listed as medium and his build was listed as slender. His eye color was listed as blue and his hair color as black.³

Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas at 617 Arlington Street, enumerated 8 January 1920, along with Gladys Miczanko's two siblings, Edwin L Miczanko and Alfa E Miczanko. The ages of Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko were listed as 32 and 26, respectively, born in Texas and Colorado, respectively, both did not attend school the previous year, and both could read and write. The home was listed as owned, not mortgaged, and not on a farm.. The official date of that census was 01 January 1920. Their daughter Alpha Ruth Chelf was listed as living with them The only child in the home was age 3 and 3/12, too young to atend school or to read and write. Felding's occupation was listed as being a barber in a barber shop (working on his own account).⁷

Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas at 617 Arlington, enumerated 7 April 1930. Their ages were listed as 44 and 35, respectively, born in Kentucky and Missouri, respectively, ages at first marriage were 29 and 21, respectively, both did not attend school the previous year, and both could read and write. The home was listed as owned, valued at $4000, and not on a farm. A radio was not listed as being present in the home. The official date of that census was 02 April 1930. Their children Alpha Ruth Chelf, Harvey Junior Chelf and Finice Cleo Chelf were listed as living with them, along with Gladys Miczanko's mother, Estha Barton (listed as Estka Mic Zanko). All three children were listed as enrolled in school. Felding (listed as Harvey P Chelf) was listed as employed and working as the proprieter of a barber shop (self-employed). No occupation was listed for Gladys. The census schedule line for him indicates he was not a military veteran. Interestingly, Estha Barton was also listed as the self-employed proprieter of a barber shop.⁴

Felding Harvey Chelf died on 28 July 1938 at Jefferson Davis Hospital, Houston, Harris County, Texas, at age 52. His death was due to pachymeningitis hemorrhagica due to a accidental fall off a bicycle. The accident occurred 25 June 1938.⁵ He was buried at Rosewood Cemetery, north of Houston, Harris County, Texas. His death certificate lists his normal address as 617 Arlington, Houston, Texas. His occupation is listed as barber. His marital status is listed as widowed. He was said to have lived in Houston for 24 years at the time of his death. The death certificate indicates his wife's name was Gladys. It also indicates his wife's maiden name was Gladys "Mic Zanko" (Miczanko), born Kansas City, Kansas, which is at least partly in error: his wife was named Gladys Miczanko. An autopsy was performed. Family folklore (from an interview with his son, Harvey Junior Chelf around 1998, by Linda Wright and Carl Fields) indicated the bicycle accident was triggered when he stuck his head on a post (or possible a horizontal projection from a post) while riding. It was unclear if the brain injury was triggered by the impact with the post or the impact with the ground for the fall caused by the initial collision with the post. The accident caused unconsiousness. Family folklore (from Jo Ann Chelf around 2006) is that the lots in Rosewood Cemetery were obtained by barter some time (possibly years) prior to his death (in exhange for haircuts), a perhaps not-uncommon depression-era practice.^5,8

Gladys Miczanko's name has also been given as Gladys Migzanko.³ She was born on 27 July 1894 at Kansas City, Missouri.^1,2,4

Gladys Miczanko appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of West Port Township, Jackson County, Missouri in the household of her parents, Steve Lawrence Miczanko and Esta Barton. She was listed as age 5 (born July 1894 in Missouri), and single. The family surname was spelled Miczanks for this census.⁴

Gladys Miczanko appeared on the 1910 Federal Census of Denver, Denver County, Colorado in the household of her parents, Steve Lawrence Miczanko and Esta Barton, at 4250 Tejone Street. She was listed as age 15, born in Missouri, was able to read, write, and speak English, and was attending school.⁵

Gladys Miczanko married Felding Harvey Chelf, son of Elza C Chelf, circa 1915.³

Gladys Miczanko and Felding Harvey Chelf appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas at 617 Arlington Street, enumerated 8 January 1920, along with Gladys Miczanko's two siblings, Edwin L Miczanko and Alfa E Miczanko. The ages of Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko were listed as 32 and 26, respectively, born in Texas and Colorado, respectively, both did not attend school the previous year, and both could read and write. The home was listed as owned, not mortgaged, and not on a farm.. The official date of that census was 01 January 1920. Their daughter Alpha Ruth Chelf was listed as living with them. The only child in the home was age 3 and 3/12, too young to atend school or to read and write. Felding's occupation was listed as being a barber in a barber shop (working on his own account).⁶

Gladys Miczanko and Felding Harvey Chelf appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas at 617 Arlington, enumerated 7 April 1930. Their ages were listed as 44 and 35, respectively, born in Kentucky and Missouri, respectively, ages at first marriage were 29 and 21, respectively, both did not attend school the previous year, and both could read and write. The home was listed as owned, valued at $4000, and not on a farm. A radio was not listed as being present in the home. The official date of that census was 02 April 1930. Their children Alpha Ruth Chelf, Harvey Junior Chelf and Finice Cleo Chelf were listed as living with them, along with Gladys Miczanko's mother, Estha Barton (listed as Estka Mic Zanko). All three children were listed as enrolled in school. Felding (listed as Harvey P Chelf) was listed as employed and working as the proprieter of a barber shop (self-employed). No occupation was listed for Gladys. The census schedule line for him indicates he was not a military veteran. Interestingly, Estha Barton was also listed as the self-employed proprieter of a barber shop.¹

Gladys Miczanko died on 17 February 1937 at Tubercular Hospital, Houston, Harris County, Texas, (7:15 PM) at age 42. She died from pulmanary tuberculosis.² She was buried in Rosewood Cemetery, north of Houston, Texas. Her death certificate lists her occupation as housewife and her usual address as 617 Arlington, Houston Texas. She was listed as married (husband's name: Harvey). She was said to have lived in Houston for 22 years. The informant for the death certificate information was listed as (daughter) Ruth Chelf. Family folklore (from Jo Ann Chelf around 2006) is that the lots in Rosewood Cemetery were obtained by barter some time (possibly years) prior to his death (in exhange for haircuts), perhaps a not-uncommon depression-era practice.²

Alpha Ruth Chelf was born circa September 1916 at Texas.^1,2

Alpha Ruth Chelf appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas in the household of her parents, Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko, at 617 Arlington Street. She was listed as age 3 3/12, born in Texas, single, and not attending school.²

Alpha Ruth Chelf appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas in the household of her parents, Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko, at 617 Arlington. She was listed as age 13, single, born in Texas, attending school and able to read and write.³

Alpha Ruth Chelf lived in February 1937 at 617 Arlington, Houston, Harris County, Texas.⁴

Alpha Ruth Chelf (listed as Alpha R Chelf) appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas at 617 Arlington, enumerated 12 April 1940, along with her two younger siblings, Harvey Junior Chelf and Treo Finis Chelf (Finice was listed as Cleo F). The home was listed as owned, valued at $1000, and not on a farm (the estimated value of the dwelling is much lower than the value listed for the same dwelling in the 1930 census). The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. All household members were listed having lived in the same house on 1 Apr 1935. Alpha Ruth was listed as age 23, single, born in Texas, with 2 years of college, and attending school in March 1940. Alpha Ruth was listed as employed and not seeking work the week of 24-30 March. Her occupation was listed as a librarian working at a public school as a government worker. She worked 30 hours the week prior to the date of the census. She reported 52 weeks worked in 1939, $720 wage income, and she had other income (other than wages and salary) in excess of $50. Her census information was recorded on one of the two lines on the form (or schedule) so that she was asked additional questions (on this form, which seem to differ from most 1940 census forms, these "selector lines" were Lines 3 and 39). The additional questions indicated that her father was born in Kentucky and her mother was born in Colorado, her native language was English, and her normal occupation is school librarian (government worker) the occupation she had at the time of the census. The additional information also seems to indicate she is the child of a deceased veteran father (and apparently of a father who served in the World War (what we now call World War I). This information about her father seems inconsistent with the information provided for him in the 1930 census. In addition, the form of the question seems to indicate that it was intended to applicable only to children of a deceased veteran who were under age 18.⁵

Alpha Ruth Chelf married James McGee circa 1946.¹ Alpha Ruth Chelf was buried.

Harvey Junior Chelf was born on 29 September 1922 in Texas.^1,2

Harvey Junior Chelf appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas in the household of his parents, Felding Harvey Chelf and Gladys Miczanko, at 617 Arlington. He was listed as age 7, single, born in Texas, and attending school.³

Harvey Junior Chelf appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of Houston, Harris County, Texas in the household of his older sister, Alpha Ruth Chelf, at 617 Arlington. The official date of that census was 01 April 1940. He was listed as: age 17, single, attended school during March 1940, had completed three years of high school, born in Texas, and lived in the same house on 1 Apr 1935. Hew as not employed and not looking for work because he was attending school. He reported no 1939 earnings and did not have income other than wages or salary in excess of $50.⁴

Harvey Junior Chelf married Jo Ann (--?--) circa 1948.¹

Harvey Junior Chelf died on 28 December 1999 at Houston, Harris County, Texas, at age 77. He died from complications from non-Hodgkins lymphoma. He had lived in Houston at the time of his death (and had lived there for much of his life, except for military service and a few multiple-year work assignments at other locations).^5,2

Harvey Junior Chelf's Social Security Number was 449-28-9568 (issued in Texas, prior to 1951.)²