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Military Service - continued
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I have many memories of John Holland. Here are a few. I first met John in March of 1943. This tall, good looking private and I became close friends. His smile from ear to ear was only surpassed by his wit and dry humor.
General Swing ordered a 5 mile walk and run session before each breakfast. John called them "Swing Sessions". After basic training, glider rides, KP duty, inspections, and forest marches, this training came in handy in New Guinea and Manila.
John and I pulled sentry duty together in Manila where we heard of the TIC-TOCK-CLUB. We quickly got acquainted with the place. This is where John danced up a storm with the club hostesses. We did pretty good with the $.25 rum and cokes. He was always the life of the party.
I recall when John and I were invited to dinner by an Italian lady, who was married to a Filipino. Her husband was killed by Japanese soldiers for aiding the American G.I.'s. John was so impressed by this, that the next day he went shopping at the make-shift PX and bought whatever food stuff was available and delivered it to this woman's house. She and her children could not thank him enough.
The war ended and The 11th was sent to occupy Japan. We became friendly with some Japanese and John couldn't get over how short they all were. I told John that was because "everyone looks up to you." He chuckled at this.
In December of 1945 we parted ways and said our Good-Byes. I, to this day, regret to say that was the last time I saw John Holland. However, we corresponded, and his wit and humor is reflected in all of his letters and cards.
Good-Bye old buddy. I'll always remember you. Until we meet again.
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Forever Air Borne |
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Al (Mutz) D'Accurzio |
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Utica, New York |
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Biography, Sports Nut, Military Service, Civic Involvement, Inglewood Church, Family History, Loving Memories, Guest Book, Home Page
Last Updated February 11, 2001 |
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