The Basilian Beacon

Volume 1
March 1945
Number 4

Transcribed by Connie Hembree Gaban
May 2010
Source: The Frank Snyder Collection

Editor's Note: The editor of The Basilian Beacon was Miss Agnes Sweeney (1903-1978) of Dushore, PA. Agnes, daughter of John and Mary (McGee) Sweeney, was a school teacher. Agnes also served as local tax assessor in 1939. She was the first cousin, once removed, of Bob Sweeney, the administrator of this web site. According to Rose Marie Sweeney, her first cousin and Bob's last surviving paternal aunt and who was very close to her cousin, Agnes was an intelligent, considerate and graceful individual. She never married. You can see a group photo of Agnes and her immediate family of origin midway thorugh The Sweeneys of Ringer Hill.

ST. PATRICK – IRELAND’S PATRON SAINT

Fifteen years ago a Christian slave boy named Patrick was brought to Ireland by a pirate ship. As he tended his master’s flocks the lonely boy thought of his parents in distant Scotland and often he prayed to God for comfort and help. After years of hardship he returned to his home, and became a priest and later a bishop. His one thought now was to return to Ireland and to bring the blessing of the Faith to the Irish people. This he did and converted the entire population. Ireland became an isle of saints and of learning. Down through the centuries the Irish people have treasured the Faith that St. Patrick brought them and have loved and revered him as their patron and father. His feast day, March 17^th is always observed as a gala occasion by the Irish all over the world.

MARCH 19-FEAST OF ST. JOSEPH

Of all the Saints, none is more dear to the Catholic heart than St. Joseph. He was selected by God to be the Protector of Jesus and Mary during the thirty years they lived together in a little room, in the village of Nazareth.

The mysteries of St. Joseph rise up like a beautiful cloud of incense from the Sacred Infancy. He belongs wholly to it. We know little of him except in relation to it. It seems the one end for which he was created and so wonderfully sanctified-the one work which God gave him to do. He is altogether detached from the Passion. It does not even cast shadows over him before hand, as it does over the Mother of Sorrows.

Even before Jesus left the holy house for the toil of his three years ministry, Joseph was taken to his rest. Worn out with divine love, he died in a sweet ecstasy pillowed on the bosom of Jesus, and with Mary by his side, in the very midst of all that was most beautiful and most holy and most heavenly on earth.

Contributed by Miss Catherine North

A SUNDAY STROLL

It was a mild winter afternoon-an ideal day for a leisurely stroll over the hill toward the pond. The benevolent rays of a wholesome sunlight cast its spell over the landscape and a million glints of the golden mellowness deposited themselves on the white covering that masked the rugged terrain.

Two small boys were taking full advantage of the sleighing and were now making the return trip up the hill after riding down. Yes, it seemed that one always paid for his ride, but the boys didn’t seem to mind paying.

UNTITLED page 1

Crossing the tracks the Mill on the Floss loomed up at the right silent today in re3signation to the sanctity of the day of rest. Before us on the hill to the right the Connor home stood out in graceful prominence looking down to Dushore’s little river below.

The big mansion on the left looked rather beautiful and majestic in its quiet seclusion and in the front window was a serious sytar [?]--a grim reminder in contrast to the air of quietude about the spacious environment. Farther on were more houses and more service stars and the dripping of the water from the eaves was the only interruption to the calm and serenity of the peaceful scene.

The parsonage stood out in classic simplicity giving an added touch to the spiritual significance of it all. Having reached Carpenter Street one suddenly became conscious of the trees that seemed to be aspiring to the stars. The line of Joyce Kilmer’s famous poem came to mine-“I think that I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree.” Continuing up the street there was the snug little bungalow (part of line cut off on next page) simplicity: and to the right those beautiful spruce trees in the yard of the Garey home, itself symbolic of the architectural ideal.

One could almost imagine Robert Louis Stevenson writing some of his famous lines under those very trees.

But now the lengthening shadow of late afternoon had begun to fall which reminded this wayfarer that it was time to retrace and journey toward home. So home again it was-just in time to witness the final act of the golden sun as it seemed to slip away in the west.

Miss Agnes Sweeney

KEEPING UP WITH YOUR STAFF

Since the first issue of our Parish paper was published there have been many changes in personnel. Mrs. Richard Holcombe joined the Editor’s Staff with the initial issue and served until she left for Henderson, Nevada, where her husband was then stationed. She has now returned to Dushore and the Staff. Mrs. John Gerrity was a reporter for the October issue. Then she returned to Louisville, Ky. Her husband is at Fort Knox. Mrs. Jesse Getz is now living in Binghamton where her husband, who was recently discharged from the Army, is employed at Ansco. They have an infant son, David James. Miss Genevieve Kaier was a member of the Editor’s Staff for January and February. She and her brother have moved to Buffalo. Miss Elizabeth Murray left us when she entered the nurses Training school at the Mercy hospital, Wilkes-Barre, as a cadet nurse. Besides her work on the Basilian Beacon, she also did secretarial. Work for St. Basil’s Parish.

Wedding bells have likewise brought a change of names in our lineup, for Miss Geraldine Smith has become Mrs. Joseph Obert since our February issue went to press. We of the Staff extend our very best wishes to this happy couple.

We are pleased to announce that Miss Betty Foley and Mrs. Donald Fries are joining us as new reporters. These young ladies have contributed much to this edition and we are glad to have them with us. We welcome, too, Miss Regina Tubach to our group. Regina has been appointed Sales Manager. She has entered into her duties with so much enthusiasm and good will that there is no doubt of her success.

APPRECIATION NOTES

Tony Zangara writes that he has received his copies of the Beacon and is much pleased with the paper. He desires to express his appreciation to the Altar & Rosary Society for it.

From Hawaii Joe Sweeney reports: “I have just received the Beacon and like it a lot and will look forward to the next copy soon. St. Basil’s Church looked very nice there on the front page. That is one thing that will never change and neither time nor storm will affect the appearance of that great monument on the hill. I have attended many church services on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts and St. Basil’s is fully as impressive as many churches in the large cities.”

Quick Thinker

Quack: “These pills I offer you, ladies and gentlemen, are the finest things for making one strong and healthy and increasing one’s life.”

Voice from the crowd: “But what about our forefathers? There were no such pills in their days.”

Quack: “I quite agree with you. And where are they now? All dead!”

Customer Knows

Barber: “Will you have anything on the face when I’ve finished shaving, sir?”

Customer: “It doesn’t seem likely.”

Pvt. John J. Bundle sent home his wedding pictures last week. His bride appears to be a very lovely English girl. Congratulations, John. We hope you’ll be bringing your wife home to Dushore soon.

Published monthly by the Altar and Rosary Society of St. Basil’s Church, Dushore, Pa.

Dedicated to those from St. Basil’s Parish in the Armed Forces.

STAFF

Editor-in Chief:

Miss Agnes Sweeney

Co-Editors:

Mrs. Eugene Keating

Mrs. Richard L. Holcombe

Typist:

Miss Marie Dempsey

Miss Catherine Deegan

Circulation:

Miss Mary Lynch

Miss Marguerite Smith

Mrs. Joseph Obert

Mrs. John McMahon

Reporters:

Mrs. John McKernan

Mrs. Joseph Murphy

Miss Dorothy Donovan

Miss Mary Fitzgerald

Miss Jane Fitzgerald

Miss Elizabeth Foley

Mrs. Donald Fries

Miss Geraldine Hembury

Miss Catherine Rush

Miss Eleanor Sullivan

Sales Manager:

Miss Regina Tubach

Chairman:

Miss Mary C. Rouse

Moderator:

Father Hughes

LOOKING BACK

We are starting a new feature which we think will interest you servicemen and women. We will take a class each month and do our best to let you know what each of your old friends is doing. This month we will feature the class of 1944. Jimmie Lane is a naval enlistee. He is serving aboard the U.S.S. Chicago Detail. Until his ship was commissioned, he was home frequently. We’ll miss seeing you around, Jimmie. Kitty Rush after spending some time at Harrington & Co. in the ice cream department, is now a Hello Girl in the local telephone office. Be good in timing tickets for the servicemen Kitty. We see Dick Obert daily making deliveries of feed for his father’s mill. Dick will soon be wearing the Navy blue, as he is enlisting and expects to be sworn in this week. Mary Theresa Gilmore is a cadet nurse. She is training at the Robert Packer hospital in Sayre. She says
“There is just something about nursing that she likes.” George Lambert is an active worker on the home front. We see him around town when he has time to spare from the farm. Mary Barry is working in the pajama factory in Lopez. All their work is under Government contract. Arthur and Catherine Ryan McMahon are now the proud parents of an infant daughter. Art is the only married member of the class and is working his father’s farm. Another classmate is with the Cadet Nurse Corps. Betty Lou Murray entered the Mercy hospital in Wilkes-Barre. Betty Lou is kept busy with her studies but likes it very much. Katherine Deegan and Jane Fitzgerald are working in the creamery office. We hear they are very efficient too. They spend their spare time working on the Basilian Beacon. John Yonkin is in the Navy. He is taking a course in electrical engineering at Purdue University. Ann Donovan is taking a business course in Scranton. She lives with her aunt, Mrs. McNeal who formerly lived in Dushore. Rose McMahon works in the chemistry Department of the Sylvania plant in Towanda. She lives at home, and rides with other workers of the plant. And that covers the class of 1944. We think they are truly representative of all the classes that have graduated from St. Basil’s. Next month we will present the class of ’43. Until then-best wishes.

ANOTHER TRIP THROUGH TOWN

Many boys in the service might picture coming home as arriving on Route 220 from Towanda. It’s a nice sunny afternoon, so let’s look in on the town as we drive in.

The first place to stop is at the Rock Spring Service station. Mr. and Mrs. Kast operate it as usual. Bob delivers a lot of coal these days.

Rome O’Neill is at Meehan’s gas station and takes care of the gas tank delivery. From the beginning of the war, Rome has been very much interested in home front activities. Over the garage, Kelt Meehan and Gerry Scanlin are working on the books of the Sullivan Silk Company. Kelt spends part of his time at the Silk Mill.

In the next building many people visit Harry Hartzig for glasses. Eleanor helps him with his work. The Post Office looks familiar with Mrs. Deegan and Gerard Murray there. Mrs. Deegan looks very happy since Jimmy is situated so that he can visit home often. Gerard takes the usual friendly interest in the boys when they are home on furlough and keeps in touch with many of them who are away. Cunningham’s Restaurant proudly displays trophies that Bernard sent home. Mrs. Cunningham tries to keep Bernard informed as to the addresses of his friends and he has seen many of them. Over the restaurant, Mildred Thayer has a law office and conducts the insurance agency since the death of Mr. Thayer.

Fitzpatrick and Connolly garage carry on across the way. They are busy keeping cars and trucks in running order. Their garage is one of the official inspection stations. Charley Weed and Pomeroy Appleman are with them.

Under the red light and further along the street, Hoags have their shoe store and repair shop. Robert and Albert Hoag are both busy in the repair shop helping people make their old shoes last longer.

When anyone thinks of the telephone office in Dushore, they think of the fine service rendered by the Cowley girls and those who have assisted them. The death of Miss Rita Cowley in December was a shock to all who knew her. Those employed at the office at present are Winnie ?, Helen Hartford, Gerry ?, Kitty Rush, Grace Featherby and Winnie Watson at night.

At Leo Sick’s there is a partition through the building and the front of the building, facing the highway, is occupied by the office of the Ration Board with John M. Lumley as chairman. Mr. Lumley renders this service in addition to his work as County Superintendent of Schools. The office work is done by Alice Coyle ?, Irene Mosier, Mrs. Leona ? and Ruth Heverly Harris.

Back at the Station Office, Leo Sick has his hardware store, and he operates the gas station with Jimmy’s assistance. Matt Novosel has charge of the repair shop.

Down the street Ed Sweeney has his headquarters where Dr. Biddle had his office.

Over at Hamer’s, Helen and Johnny operate the Atlantic station. They find plenty to do servicing cars.

At Litzelmans, Thad and Gertrude are busy but cannot buy much new equipment these days. Thad is doing the best he can to keep existing equipment repaired and to see that everybody is happy.

Across the street, at the creamery office, Mary Harrington is in the telephone booth to greet us. The girls who work regularly in the office on the first floor are Gerry Smith Obert, Peggy Smith, Marie Dempsey, Mary and Jane Fitzgerald and Catherine Deegan. Upstairs Winnie Watson tells us that others may come and go but she --------------. In the office we find Maurice Harrington, Abe Snyder, Bill Sick, and Harold Thomas all looking natural.

On going over to the plant, we see that the old ice house has been replaced by a partly constructed brick building which will be completed as circumstances permit. In the plant many men are missing that used to be there before going into service, but it is surprising how many of the old employees are still there.

Women from around town have been helping at the plant during the war. Mrs. Joseph Obert, Mrs. Charles Weed, Mrs. Ernest Fiocca, and Mrs. Douglas Cook are helping in the ice cream room. Mrs. Lawrence Zaner is in the laboratory while Mrs. Burton Arey and Mrs. Harold Fulmer work in the egg room.

Jerome Lane, Jack Rush, Ellery Weaver, Jr. and Richard Weaver from St. Basil’s, John Quigg and Carl Houseknecht from Laporte work at the plant part of the time.

The best place to visit is the ice cream room, so we’ll just drop in. Kid Cunningham is making bulk and pints. Leo Bohensky, Earl Long, Bob Cain, Ty Sullivan and Joe Marshall are also in this department as well as the women already mentioned. We’ll have a dish of ice cream and visit with Jake Farrell a little while. Jake, with materials rationed, is having his troubles keeping everyone satisfied.

We won’t take time today to go all through the plant, but we’ll visit it all soon. It is the hope of the home folks that the day will come before too long when a trip through the creamery will mean seeing many of the boys who are now far away.

Mrs. A.F. Snyder

SCHOOL NEWS

Dorothy Donovan

Twenty minutes of nine each morning and the ringing of the school bell finds us making our way to school, and another school day is beginning. Quite a few students hurry from Lynch’s Candy Store and the Acme Market toward Church Hill. I say hurry because late comers are definitely not popular with Mother Jeanne Marie, a newcomer to St. Basil’s in September.

Mother is always present to welcome the Seniors these frosty mornings. Sister Wilhelma is also always “ on the spot” to greet the Juniors. We find Sister Beatrice with the Freshmen and Sophomores, Sister Lucian with the 6^th 7^th and 8^th grades, Sister Catherine in the 4^th and 5^th grade rooms and Sister ? with a watchful eye on the tots in the 1^st 2^nd and 3^rd grades.

About ten minutes after ten every day we spy Father Kane winding his way down the hill to teach the high school religion classes.

Every Wednesday afternoon there are educational moving pictures in the auditorium. They are very popular with the students for more than one reason, since they begin about 2:30 and cut the school day an hour shorter. But, seriously, we all hope that after the war, education by “movies’ will become even more prevalent to make both teaching and learning easier.

Lately, perhaps shoppers in town have been approached by eager salesmen with chances for the benefit of the Junior class. The class is badly in need of funds and the prom is a doubtful question this year.

Mid-term exams have recently been completed and report cards distributed by Father Hughes amid some sighs of disappointment and many of relief.

To wind up the week, Friday afternoons in Lent find us assembled in church at a quarter of three for Stations of the Cross.

Good Reader

Manager: “Didn’t you read the letter I sent you?”

Office Boy: “Yes sir, I read it inside and outside. On the inside it said: ‘You are fired,’ and on the outside it said: ‘Return in five days,’ so here I am.”

OUR CABIN

Remember the cabin we built, boys,

Over on Gainer’s Knob,

Remember how hard we worked on it.

We sure did a wonderful job.

The boards and planks we carried

Some of them from miles around

Remember we dug the cellar

About three feet underground

The stone wall we built was perfect

We labored the whole summer long

And the floor we laid was a dandy:

The walls were sturdy and strong,

But we struck a snag with the chimney,

The darn thing just wouldn’t draw.

It smoked us out more than one time.

But it works like a cracker jack now.

Remember the stove and the table

And the cots we slept on at night,

Remember how cows wandered up to our door

And gave us a terrible fright:

Remember the old Victrola

T’would bring tears to your eyes if it could.

Remember our favorite ditty:

“I’d hold de lantern while Mudder chops de wood”

Remember Mom Richley’s cooking,

Her pies, her cakes and her bread.

Remember the chickens she roasted.

I think t’was her Rhode Island Red

Remember how Joe, Jim and “Sugar”

Bob, Paul and the rest of the gang

Would come out and we’d throw a party

That sure went off with a bang

Remember the plans that we made there.

What we’d do and what we would be

But we never planned to be sailors

And join Uncle Sam’s big Nav-E

Remember when this war is over

And the gang are all back in Dushore

You all have a date at our cabin

To celebrate victory once more.

Dedicated to three sailors: Gene Gainer, John Yonkin and Jim Lane.

LETTERS FROM SERVICEMEN

January 28, ‘45

Dear Editors:

I have received three issues of the Beacon to date, so I guess it’s about time for me to write and let you know that I, for one, think it is swell, and I am certain that the others feel the same. I know that Bob Dempsey does.

I can’t think of any changes I would like to see in the paper. It’s just the way we want it, especially the items on the other fellows in the services.

I have been pretty lucky in meeting fellows from Dushore since I have been overseas. So far I have met Robert Fries, Robert Dempsey, John North, and Charles Kschinka. Four of us from Dushore are here on this island. Not bad for a town that size.

Keep up the good work! We certainly appreciate everything that you are doing.

Yours truly,

Cpl. Raymond C. Obert

H& S. Co., 3^rd Trans. Bn.

3^rd Marine Div., F.M.F.

Care F.P.O., San Francisco, Cal.

We’re glad to hear from you, Ray, and say hello to the other Dushore boys for us.

Somewhere in New Guinea

January 19, ‘45

Dear Staff:

I have just received my November issue of your “up to the minute” news of the boys in the service. It is great. In fact I have read it over and over and yet I can’t find words to express my opinion.

This part of the world is really far from the laughs and glories of New York. I’m not kidding and down deep I really feel sorry for these poor army boys who have been over here since ’41. They really have it tough.

Glad to see that Bob Murray met a local boy. It surely is swell to hear things like that. I only hope and pray for the day when we can all be home again.

I have a feeling that Boo Obert is near here. If only had his address by your publishing it in the paper! It seems to me that Thomas Connell is also near here, but have not been able to trace him.

Mass was very nice in a hangar and a very beautifully voiced choir gave an air of solemnity to the background. It just can’t be put into words. May God bless you all and protect you.

Joseph A. Farrell, SM 3/c

Armed Guard, S.S. Wm. Prescott care Fleet P.O. , New Orleans, La.

Joe, we hope that by this time the other copies of our paper have reached you. We’ll try to visit with you each month this way.

France, Feb. 12 1945

Dear Friends:

You will no doubt be surprised to hear from me, but I guess it is high time I let you know that I am still alive and thinking of all the folks back home.

Everything is going along about as well as can be expected under the circumstances. Everything is mud and more mud at the present time. It is impossible to keep dry or clean. Some people say that France is a nice country, but from what I’ve seen of it, and that’s about all of it. I don’t want any part of it, and that goes for the other four countries I have been in.

I have received the December and January copies of the Basilian Beacon and I want to thank you for sending it to me. Yes, I remember when the Basilian Beacon was first published. I believe I was a Freshman at the time.

Well, news is scarce so I will sign off at this time, hoping this finds everyone happy and in the best of health. I hope I will be honored by receiving the paper each month.

An old friend,

Ed Lavey

Ed. Note. We’ll do our best to see that you receive one each month, Ed. It is we who are honored to do it. Thanks for writing to us.

Cpl. Edward W. Lavey 83349935

Hq. Btry 214^th AAA Gun ?

A.P.O. ? care Postmaster

New York, N.Y.

February 19, 1945

Dear Friends at St. Basil’s:

I received my copy of the January Beacon yesterday and I assure each and every one of you that I enjoyed reading it. Be assured that all those in the service from our parish do appreciate your efforts and kind thoughts in sending us the Beacon.

One thing I would like to impress on those at home is “Write to your loved ones.” The mail call rates first each day, chow comes second. Yesterday I received quite a bundle of mail which, for security reasons, etc. had been held up. And did things look better after I received that mail, and how! Sue always writes regularly and that’s all I look forward to, her letters. I see some poor lads waiting and waiting at mail call and no letters. They surely get the blues, so please remember, write regularly to your loved ones in the service.

I am at present in the Mariana Islands and have seen plenty, but the least said the better. You just read the papers. We are ready to give the Japs a real workout. I sincerely look for the war to end by December, ’45, and I have high hopes of attending midnight Mass Christmas morning, ’45, with sue and the children and saying “Merry Christmas” to you all. We have Mass here right along. I received two weeks ago. The boys all turn out for Mass.

Well, my friends, again thanks for the Beacon and kindest personal regards to you all.

Sincerely,

Ed Dailey

Ed M. Dailey, Jr. CM 3/c

70^th N.C. Batt D. Co.

B 30, care F.P.O.

San Francisco, Calif.

Thank you, Ed for your letter. We’ll be watching for that “Merry Christmas”.

BOND RALLY HELD AT SCHOOL

As their contribution to the Bond and Stamp Rally held in St. Basil’s school auditorium, Friday, February 23, the pupils of the sixth, seventh and eighth grades presented a patriotic play.

The price of admission to the performance was a War Stamp or Bond and the total receipts amounted to $579.30.

The theme of the play centered around two typical American youngsters, played by Jean Tubach and William Farrell, who hoarded their pennies in a piggy bank instead of investing them in Stamps and Bonds. When the bank was opened the coins came to life and indignantly demanded to be put to work for Uncle Sam.

The play was brought to a close by “Victory Cheers” given by the cast and led by cheer-leaders, Ruberta Welwood and Mary Ann Ryan, and the singing of the National Anthem by both cast and audience.

BASKETBALL LEAGUE

The B.C.A.A. Basketball League is really coming to an end. Of course, we would like to see our own Alma Mater come out on top, but if not, may the next best school win. Each school is in hopes that their team may be victorious and many hard and exciting games are being fought. Probably many of you fellows wish you were back on the “old team” again to help carry it on to victory.

Well, the Seniors are now flashing their name cards, which is a good sign that the graduation fever has started once again for another group of proud Seniors. It will probably be a big shock to some of you to know who the members of this year’s class are: Dorothy Donovan, Helen Deegan, Dolores Hamer, Rita Waples, Theresa Scanlin, Eleanor Sullivan, Mary Meehan, Pat Ryan, Carl Wagner, Bud Ambs, Gene Thayer, and Billy Gilmore. I suppose you’re thinking, “Every year they’re getting younger” – but naturally.

Kitty Rush

About Saluting

A recruit, smoking a cigarette, walked past a captain without saluting. The officer called him back. “Are you not aware that you should always salute an officer?” the captain asked.

“Yes, sir,” replied the recruit, “but the sergeant always told me never to salute with a cigarette in my mouth.”

NEWS ITEMS

Leo Kerr writes from England that he receives the Basilian Beacon regularly and looks forward to each issue. He hopes soon to be able to visit Bob Murray. He says the life of a news reel cameraman is a very busy one: it takes him to every corner of the British Isles and with wartime travel conditions and the fog it is a very trying job.

In a recent letter to his mother, “Pete Finan writes, “ I received a lovely box from the Altar and Rosary Society on January 15, also the Basilian Beacon. I was so delighted with both, would you thank them for their kindness for me?” Pete’s new address is:

Vincent E. Finan, S 2/c

Navy No. 3964 care F.P.O.

San Francisco, Calif.

Mrs. Philip Cain received word from her son, John, telling her he is living in a German house in Germany with a pal who took boot training with him in the States. He is attached to Hdg. C. John sent birthday greetings to his Aunt Nell Kane who celebrated her 89^th birthday on February 8.

Howard M. Kerr was honorably discharged from the Marines on January 25. He is classed as “medically disabled” from wounds received on Tinian Island July 25, 1944, in the Marianas. Howard was on a hospital ship for a time, then taken to a hospital in New Caledonia. Howard spent eight months in the Pacific. We of the Staff of the Basilian Beacon welcome you home, Howard.

Private John E. Thayer writes his family that he is well and enjoys the nice weather in Oahu. He has seen many fields of pineapples and sugar cane since leaving America’s shores. He also has seen Pearl Harbor and Honolulu. His address is:

Pvt. John E. Thayer 33843125

A. Btry. 750^th F. A. Bn.

A.P.O. 957

Care Postmaster

San Francisco, Calif.

Several letters written while on the sea by Pfc. James W. Thayer were received last week. His family also reports having received Valentine greetings from Iran. His address is:

Pfc. James w. Thayer, 32738316

Co. A. 2nd Platoon

A.P.O. 11257

Care Postmaster, New York, NY

Corporal Stanley F. Bundle wrote home that he has received the Christmas box that the Altar and Rosary Society sent. He says he receives his mail much more quickly now.

Pvt. Leo Barry returned to Camp Blanding, Fla. After spending a ten day furlough at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Barry. He was called home because of the serious illness of his brother William, who was stricken with pneumonia. At this time William is recovering nicely.

Pvt. Carl Muller of Fort Belvoir, Virginia, spent the weekend with his family.

Pfc. Francis Waldron, who is stationed in Belgium, was wounded in action on January 9^th. This is the second time he has been wounded since going overseas.

Corporal Edward Bundle says he spent Christmas on the field, but was served a very delicious turkey dinner.

Pvt. Thomas Ryan of Camp Belvoir, Va. has been promoted to T/5. Thomas recently spent a furlough at the home of his mother, Mrs. Margaret Ryan of Cherry Mills.

Pvt. Bernard Litzelman is with the army at Luxembourg.

Robert Murray has had a seventeen day furlough which he spent in Glasgow. Bob is much impressed with the beauty of the Scottish countryside and hopes to visit there often.

Cpl. Robert Dempsey writes from the Pacific that they have good movies where he is stationed. They are going to have Stations of the Cross every Friday during Lent.

Cpl. Joseph A. Ryan has been transferred from Casper, Wyo. to Sioux City, Iowa.

Mrs. Gerald Taylor has received a letter from her cousin, Tom Carroll, in which he says he has received the Basilian Beacon. He likes it so well that he wants her to send it to him regularly. He learned a lot ??? a fine paper. (Thank you, Tom, we’re glad you like our paper).

Cpl. Thomas w. Carroll, 33352446

482^nd Bomb Sq., 505^th GP

A.P.O. 247, care Postmaster

San Francisco, Calif.

John Bird, EM 1/c is now in San Francisco and expects to be home sometime in March. John’s address is:

U.S.S. Skate

Care Fleet Postmaster,

San Francisco, Calif.

Francis Walsh has been inducted in the Armed Forces and will leave for service on March 5.

John Carroll of Buffalo, formerly of this place, reported at Wilkes-Barre, for his pre-induction examination February 21. He has returned to Buffalo awaiting his call.

New address:

2^nd Lt. Mary C. Ryan

Station Hospital

Camp Patrick Henry, Va.

Paul Bird came through the Battle of Ormoc and is now resting at a base in the Philippines.

Address:

Pvt. Paul T. Bird, 3350415

Hdq. Btry. 11 Div. Arty

A.P.O. 77 care Postmaster

San Francisco, Calif.

Gerard Marshall is glad to be back in the warm climate. He says he will try to get his furlough in the summertime. His mother hears from him regularly. He is glad to get the Basilian beacon to hear all the news around Dushore.

Henry Middendorf landed safely at New Guinea. The trip was fine. His mother had a letter from him last week in which he says he is keeping on the lookout for someone he might know. Henry , we’re glad you like our little paper and hope you get every copy.

Georgie French of Philadelphia, who has spent many summers in Dushore at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Murray is in the Navy. At this writing he is at Sampson, N.Y. He expects to get a ten day leave soon.

Cecil Smithkors is still in England and glad to hear from home. He is fine. Cecil, we have more snow here than you ever saw in Philly. You should be here to go skiing.

Quentin Weisbrod is in India and says he is living in a grass hut. He has to keep a weather eye open all the time for snakes are too plentiful for his comfort.

Charles J. Taylor is in Memphis, Tennessee. He is an instructor in the Shelby School of Aeronautics. Charlie expects to go to Panama sometime in the near future to take up his work as an inspector in the Army Air Service.

James “Jay “Fries was inducted into the army on February 21 and was sent to Fort Dix, N.J. His wife and two children will keep their apartment in Buffalo.

Vernon Broschart, F 1/c is on an LCT in the Central Pacific area. It is very warm where he is stationed and he goes swimming often.

1^st Lt. William J. Sammon, U.S. A.A. F., spent a 15 day leave with his wife, Lt. (j.g.) Cordelia Taylor Sammon recently. At present Lt. Sammon is stationed at the Army Air Base, Richmond, Va.

Lawrence Robe C.F.P. writes from Somewhere in the Pacific that he has been transferred to a new ship, the “U.S.S Medusa.”

Eugene Gainer, A/S, now at Bainbridge. Md. Has pneumonia again. This is the second time since Gene has been in the Navy. We hope you get along fine Gene.

A very pretty wedding took place in St. Basil’s Church on February 3 when Miss Geraldine Smith became the bride of T/Sgt. Joseph Obert. “Joe” is home on furlough having spent 30 months in the European theater of war. He has been awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding service.

Pvt. Joseph C., Lynch was chosen to play on the basket ball team which represented Camp Howze at the tournament held by the Eighth Service Command recently at Temple, Texas. Joe’s team won 2 of 3 games played.

Seven year old Charles Martin of Susquehanna, a grandson of Mrs. William Taylor, received a box of sea shells from his daddy, Lt. Comdr. Melvin S. Martin. Comdr. Martin is in the Central Pacific.

Pfc. Francis Smith is now at Ft. Meade, Md. He expects to be there only for a few days. Rose, his wife, has gone down to see him there.

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Francis Richley on the birth of a son.

Petty Officer Bernard Murphy is serving in the Pacific now after participating in five invasions in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

Alfred and William Taylor met in France a short time ago and for the time being, lived in the same building. After leaving the hospital in Paris, Alfred, who was still unfit for duty after recovering from wounds received in combat in Germany, was sent to the hospital where Bill was waiting for an assignment. Alfred wears the Combat Infantry Badge and was awarded the Purple Heart and the Oak Leaf Cluster.

Pvt. Edward J. Cummiskey

Battery A 83 F.A.R.T.C.

ASN 33943406 T R 475

Fort Bragg, N.C.

Pvt. Cummiskey was inducted into the Army in November. His wife has gone to Fort Bragg for a visit. They have three children.

Pfc. Bernard Cunningham writes they have an “End the War” pool, 100 franc or $2.00 a bet - $100 for the winner. The bets run from February to December, 1945. Nardy picked August 15, but hopes the winner will be February or March. Nardy has had the pleasure of meeting Dick Hileman, Jack McMahon and Steve Borick, all serving with the 7^th army in France.

Thomas Connell reports that he is fine. He is making big plans for a furlough for he think s it will soon be his turn.

Joseph Fedor is on his way home for a 30 day furlough. His wife is ???now. She was the former Miss Regina Dieffenbach.

Mrs. James Fitzgerald received a letter from her son Joseph last week. He didn’t say where he is located but he said that the scenery there is beautiful. He also said that to see it, they had to do it the hard way.

Leo Dieffenbach has not been heard from since October. He was very well then, but terribly busy.

Pfc. Edward Fitzgerald has been moved from California to Texas. He now has the following address:

Pfc. Edward J. Fitzgerald 33352461

Co. “C” Bn. 15^th Reg. 1, A.R.T.C.

Camp Howze, Texas

Joseph W. Ryan is still in Germany but as yet he hasn’t seen anyone he knows.

James Fitzgerald has been to Wilkes-Barre for examination and has passed. He is waiting patiently for his call for induction.

Raymond O’Neil arrived safely in Italy. He is stationed 1000 miles from his brother, M/Sgt. Francis O’Neil. Joe O’Neil writes from Germany that his prize jeep was hit by a German shell and blown to pieces. Joe says “Lucky for me I had just got out of it.”

Bill Barry writes from Alaska that he expects a furlough in the Spring. He says it has not been any warmer than 20 below zero since he has been there.

Cpl. Walter Manley has been sent from Hawaii to active duty in the Philippines. He was on a large gun on Saipan. His ear drums were punctured by the constant firing and he spent some time in the hospital.

Max Teeter writes that he has arrived safely in Italy. Max was wounded in the Battle of Italy last May. He was hospitalized and later furloughed home. He recovered completely from the wounds and was sent back to Italy in December. His wife, the former Betty Sando, is with her father, Patrick Sando in Elmira, N.Y.

Cpl. Dewey Abrams has been returned to light duty, mostly guard duty, after recovering from his serious illness, Mrs. Abrams, the former Miss Geraldine Finan, is living near the Camp at Lawton Okla. They have two children. In a letter to her mother, Mrs. Abrams writes that when she hangs the wash on the line in the morning the clothes freeze. Then in the afternoon the dandelions will be in bloom on the lawn. They love being in Oklahoma.

S/Sgt. Eugene Keating 33357088

Btry. C. 385^th A.A.A. (A.W.) BN

A.P.O. 654

Care Postmaster, New York N.Y.

James J. Lane S 2/c has ship out so in all probability we will not be seeing him for quite a long time. Jim has no complaints and thinks himself exceptionally lucky to have gotten home as often as he did. His friend Henry (Pete) Shaffer is “rowing” for Uncle Sam somewhere in the South Pacific.

Here’s wishing you boys the best of luck.

Mary Lane gets home from Sayre on weekends and everyone is glad to see Mary in town.

Betty Lou Murray was home from Wilkes-Barre over the weekend and we have an idea that Betty Lou likes the “Home Again” polka, too. The student nurses have just received their new blue capes which are of the finest material and very distinctive in appearance. Glad to see you in town Betty Lou.

The former Carroll home is now occupied by the Edward McDonald family. A son Edward McDonald is a member of our armed forces.

Leonard Sweeney has arrived home on a 30 day furlough after three and a half years service in the European theater of operations. After landing near Cherbourg on June 20, he participated in several major engagements involving the Combat Engineers of the First Army. Len is in splendid health and apparently not in the least affected by his strenuous experiences overseas. He reports back to Fort Dix, N.J., on March 30.

Eugene Murray writes home that he would like to be there for Easter but not to put too much faith in that as he had expected to get home for hunting season but was unable to make it. We are all anxious to see Gene and wish him luck in this respect.

Rose North of the Waves spent a weekend here at home.

Pvt. Francis Cain is still off fighting the Germans. We know that “Framp” will do his best to help shorten the war.

Dr. E.M. Dailey has many fine souvenirs sent to him by his four sons in the service. Among the trophies sent home was a grass skirt.

Joseph Dailey who is on the ship Auburn says he often sees Bill’s ship and expects to see it more often.

Mrs. Wm. Cunningham the former Rosina Dailey, who lives at Romeo, Mich., with her two children writes that her husband, Capt. Wm. Cunningham has been transferred from Goldsboro, S.C., to Chatham Field (Dental Clinic) at Savannah, Ga.

Mrs. Wm. Benk, the former Jean Dailey informs us that when she and her husband Pvt. Benk arrived back at Jackson, Miss., after spending the holidays in Buffalo, she had a call from Civil Service authorities regarding a position at the Prisoner of War camp which she accepted and likes very much.

It consists of allocating food to the American soldiers and to the German prisoners. Separate menus are provided for each group.

Jean doesn’t understand the German language so that makes things a little difficult.

Cpl. Paul Rush is still stationed in New Guinea but has a new address and has been assigned to a bomber squadron. Paul’s one hope is that he will receive his Christmas packages in time for Easter.

Louis Sick, U.S.N. is spending a leave at the home of his sister, Mrs. Gordon Tubach, and his mother, and is looking splendid.

James J. Lane, s 2/C

U.S.S. Chicago, 5^th Div.

Fleet Post office

New York, N.Y.

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Donald Waples on the birth of a daughter.

Word has been received that Francis Waples, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Waples, formerly of Murrraytown, who has been a prisoner of the Japanese for three years, was among 1500 internees released from the San Tomas prison camp when the Americans entered Manila recently. His wife and three children live in Jamaica, L.I.

Leo Scanlin RM 3/c has been transferred to Boston, Mass., from Norfolk, Va. He is taking a course in radio. He says that it is much warmer there than he expected. He expects a leave soon.

Mrs. Thomas Connell has received the Purple Heart in recognition of acts of bravery of her son, John.

Pfc. Carl Sweeney is home on nine days leave, having just made another crossing from England. He will soon return to Boston to take off again.

Kathleen A. Yonkin, of U.S.C.G. Spars has just received a new rating as Petty Officer 3^rd Class, and has received her specialist M. She is now assistant Coast Guard mail clerk. Kay was the first girl ever to be appointed to the Fleet Post Office and the honor of receiving the rating of pf Sp. Ml., which has only been given to five other Spars.

Pvt. David Potter wrote the following to the Barrys: “I am certainly thankful for all the Christmas presents that I received from the people in Dushore. I have received two papers from St. Basil’s parish. It has all the news about the boys in the service. I am going to write them a letter and

thank them.” Dave is now in the Hawaiian Islands. (We’ll be watching for that letter, Dave. Meanwhile here’s another issue for you.) Here is Dave’s address:

Pvt. David Potter

A.S.N. 3335961

R.C.N. Co. 819 T.D.

B.N.

A.P.O. 960 care P.M.

San Francisco, Calif.

John H. Yonkin F 2/c is now at Purdue University, Lafayette, Ind. Where he is taking an intensive course in electrical engineering. John wishes to thank the Altar and Rosary Society for the Christmas package which he received about Valentine’s day. The package was sent to Bucknell University, then to Great Lakes Ill., and finally reached him at Purdue University. Though late it was greatly appreciated.

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Arthur McMahon Jr. on the birth of a daughter. Mrs. McMahon is the former Miss Catherine Ryan.

SMILE AWHILE

During a recent engagement in the South Pacific area the Japs lost heavily in supplies and equipment. Included in the haul were the personal belongings of many Jap officers.

For the amusement of his buddies a U.S. Marine donned the white summer uniform of a captured Jap officer and then paraded about surveying himself up and down as he remarked: “Such a lousy laundry job-and me an officer, wait till I see the emperor about this.”

From “The Leatherneck” Pacific Edition

IS YOU OR IS YOU AIN’T?

Were we having illusions or was it just that the visibility was bad? We held tenaciously to the edge of the counter doubting our own stability for the moment. Wasn’t the age of miracles over? Searching the innermost recesses of our minds we tried frantically to recollect when we had last gazed upon the delightful spectacle. Then a feeling of rapture engulfed us completely-and happy anticipation overcame us altogether.

Believe it or not, there they were in all their gorgeous preeminence, in all their honest-to-goodness tantalizing fragrancy, in all their chocolaty delectability FIVE HERSHEY BARS!!

Tramp: “That’s sure a swell shirt you’re wearing, Shorty. How much material does it take for a shirt like that?”

Shorty: “Well, I got three shirts like this one out of one yard last night.”