1HEJANUS
A REUNION VIA 1HE INfERNET
AFfER 52 YEARS AFS Archives last October once again did what it has been able to do so often over the years - unite an AFS World War II patient with an AFS driver. "I am trying to locate an AFS ambulance driver who very likely saved my life in Italy on August 25, 1944," said an E-mail received by Archives from Robert Allan Cawsey, a lieutenant during the war with the Calgary (Tank) Regiment of the Left to Right: AFS drivers Walter B. Doyle (CM 41) and Charles O. Canadian Army. Cawsey had Stewart (ME 32, FFC) near Florence with two Italian boys, 1944. obtained Archives' e-mail address from Raphael Sabato driver was Cook. I believe he was from New of Intercultura, AFS International's Partner in Italy. York City and he was a Harvard man. I tried to contact him right after the war through a friend "While crossing the Arno River at in Chicago without success. With this scant Pontesieve near Florence," Lieut. Cawsey wrote, information, I would be grateful if you could " my tank hit a mine, killing the driver and send me Cook's present address. This is a shot in severely injuring my leg. An AFS ambulance the dark and I hope it hits the target." came right down to the river, (the driver) helped Shots-in-the-dark being an Archives me from the tank and he then took me through specialty, Eleanora Golobic, AFS staff archivist, the proper medical channels and I eventually went to work. Here is her reply to Cawsey after ended up in 58 British General Hospital at she pulled the files on two AFS WWII drivers Arezzo." named Cook (and one named Cooke, just to be "A few hours before I crossed - nearlysure): the Arno, I had swam across the river with two th "Thank you for sharing a very interesting British officers attached to the 8 Indian Diviwar story. I have checked our records and it is sion, " Cawsey continued. "Captain Scratchley quite possible that Thomas N. Cook (eM 79), stepped on a mine and ruined his leg. The same who served with B Platoon, AFS 567 ACC, was (AFS) driver came to the river and took Captain the driver who evacuated you at Pontesieve near Scratchley to the Casualty Clearing Station." Florence on 25 August 1944. From 22 August, B "As far as I can recall, the name of the
NEW ZEALANDERS REMEMBER TIIE AFS IN TIIE WESTERN DESERT: The following is a letter from Noel McLennan from New Zealand to Ms. Eleanora Golobic, AFS Archivist.
Peter Cook's AFS application photograph, 1944
Platoon HQ was at Jesi where the drivers were assigned to 1 Canadian General Hospital. They had moved with them as the line moved forward. By 25 August, 567 AFS ACC, which was spread across the Eighth Army front, participated in the attack on the Gothic Line." Eleanora continued, "I got in touch with Mr. Cook, and he said it's a possibility that he was the one who aided you and Captain Scratchley, I enclose his address and phone number." Archives subsequently learned that Cook and Cawsey had a reminiscent telephone chat. Doubtless the chat included the fact that Driver Cook had attended Haverford (not Harvard) College. A recently received e-mail comment from Mr Cawsey indicates that there is no doubt in his mind that he has the right (AFS) man.
Wally Ware of New Plymouth has suggested that I write to you of my own knowledge oftheAFS. I spent four years in an infantry battalion in the New Zealand Division in Libya, Egypt, Tunisia and Italy. I first met some of the AFS early in the Battle of Alamein in Egypt 1942. For some weeks I became a temporary stretcher bearer when our own man was killed in heavy bombardment. Alamein was the most dangerous battlefield of all those where the N .Z. Division was in action. It was one huge expanse of bare solid rock with scattered drifts of dust and sand and broad low ridges. The deepest we could dig the slit trenches with hand tools was about six inches. To gain extra protection we had to build a ring of small stones around the edge. They were known as sangars. Later in the battle the Engineers came in with compressors at night and drilled holes for explosives. In such a place every piece of shrapnel was potentially lethal because all bombs and shells exploded on impact above the ground, whereas in soft earth much of the splinters are lost underground. I have known some shell splinters to travel half a mile. Dud shells and tank shot used to ricochet like old fashioned cannon balls. Our Regimental Aid Post was in a three ton truck immediately behind the most forward infantry platoons and any AFS driver was in a most dangerous position. Three months later we went into the big attack that finally broke Jerry's line. After some
called 'a good keen man' , and you need men like that. Those men were with us all the way 'till the last shot in Tunisia and took those little vehicles through some of the roughest country in North Africa. More of them were with us for the full length ofItaly. One day in Tunisia some of us had a long yam with one of the drivers. He was an older man, very knowledgeable in many things. He told us that the AFS has been treated with indifference, almost disdain, by the American Brass and so they were working with us. It seemed a little sad to us, but it was to our gain. They certainly AFS 15 Coy members with some of their "Kiwi" friends in the Western had a respect of the old hands Desert, 1942. Left to Right: Lee Ault (ME 16) back to camera, Holbrook in the NZ Division. We saw Davis (ME 16), Edward Fenton (ME 11, ME 16), William Van Cleef(ME them as an exclusive company 16) while Grafton Fay (ME 8, ME 16) is standing on top of cab. of brave and reliable men. There is something that only stretcher days our survivors were relieved and we settled down for a while back amongst our artillery. bearers and ambulance drivers truly understand. Some German gunners had a very big highOn a battlefield the only time you get a job is velocity gun and were firing ar random all over when you are under heavy fire. You can be very our part of the battlefield. They were not shootlonely, unlike attending an accident in civilian ing at any particular target, I am sure they were life, you are not surrounded by interested byonly trying to be nasty, but they were still upsetstanders and stickybeaks. You are often the only ting a number of people. ones on your feet in the open. What would be What intrigued us was that every time a normally interested spectators are inclined to be shell exploded we saw this small vehicle tear inside holes in the ground hanging on to their across the desert and drive round the spot like a helmets. gun-dog looking for a pheasant. Then one shell My best wishes to those who drove. To almost hit the old gun pit in which we were many of us you are not forgotten. sheltering. Within minutes an AFS ambulance arrived in a cloud of dust. We heard an American shouting "Anybody hit?" Noel McLennan
All he said was "Goddam! I've been chasing that Goddam gun all day and I ain't got a customer yet.". That is what in this country is
NEW ZEALAND
He appeared with his ambulance just off the edge of the El Alamein battle field. The only thing keeping Yank from driving on to the actual battle field, was that the enemy was firing antitank missiles at everything that moved. The unit that we had been attached to as stretcher bearers had ceased to exist by daylight. Now we had wounded spread over miles. Really believe that Yank saved the l,ives of countless wounded during that hectic time. Over the years have learned quite a lot about Yank. With the USA still at peace Yank was refused by the USA armed forces Gust too young). The Canadians said "No." So Yank went back home to his folks in New York. At that time the citizens ofthe city of New York had donated money for the purchase of ambulances to be sent to the Western Desert. So Yank became a first aider, and then joined the ambulance service. What a godsend Yank was to us stretcher bearers. As we were reaching the point of exhaustion there was Yank with the ambulance door open. He said with this friendly voice, "Put the wounded in here," gave us a drink of water and said, "I will be back." Just to hear a friendly voice and get assistance with the wounded, I really believe that was the turning point in the care of the injured. It was the problem of the stretcher bearers to handle the wounded. Later in the day all the injured had been attended to and we sat in the ambulance out of the sun and discussed the war. A number of dive bombers (stukas) set their sights and with this awful scream headed for the ambulance. Just before the pilot let his bomb go he spotted the Red Cross of the roof of the ambulance. He managed to throw his bomb to the side and only some of the shrapnel went through the side of the ambulance above our heads. It was next day when the same German pilot crashed in our area and told his story about being able to miss the ambulance. He said that the only way not to crash was to get rid of the bomb. This Yank stayed around the edge of the
An AFS ambulance in the Western Desert during air attack, ca. 1942
battlefield, taking the wounded over from the stretcher bearers and saving numerous lives. Yank went to the end of the battle in North Africa then up through Italy where the casualties were even worse. At that time both sides were getting more skilled in the maiming and killing of their enemy. Yank then joined the British Liberation forces and was with them when they opened the gates of one of the concentration camps. That experience disturbed Yank to this day. In 1996 he broke down when talking about that terrible experience. You and I never saw inside a concentration camp with rotting bodies that had been starved to death, and some still alive. Plus the stench. Yank said he vomited. Even today he wakes and cannot sleep. What can I say that might ease Yank's pain? Just to write about this man is a privilege. Ray Kennedy NEW ZEALAND This complete article was reprinted with the author's permission. Mr. Ray Kennedy served as a stretcher bearer with the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force in World War II in North Africa. He first encountered the AFS ambulance drivers during the battle of El Alamein which took place from October 23 November 6, 1942. This great battle fought by the British forces against the Nazis in the Libyan desert was the turning point in the North African campaign.
SECOND AFS APPLICATION
FOR SERVICE RECOGNITION by Bill Cantrall (CM 92)
DENIED JANUARY 3,1997
Bill Cantrall recently learned that the latest application to the Department of Defense to secure veterans' benefits for those AFS veterans excluded from the 1990 decision was turned down, the details not available. The application was essentially a well documented legal brief arguing primarily that Article X of the Geneva Red Cross Convention, as a part of U.S. law, placed the AFS service under the control of the U.S. Army the moment the United States entered the war. This historical research represents several years of hard work by Bill Cantrall with support from the Archives. A copy of the brief is available to anyone interested in filing suit in a Federal Court. Bill Cantrall, a linguist and rhetorician would be available to serve as expert witness. The Archives will send a copy of the application for a donation of$25.00. Please contact the Archives if you wish to obtain a copy. Bill wishes to thank the many AFS veterans and others who helped with and supported the application.
NORTH CAROLINA AFSD~RSGATHERTO HONOR CHARLES F. COLE
Charles F. "Chuck" Cole (CM 61) and his wife Nancy were honored in September 1996 by the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina as "philanthropic leaders." The Coles, who live in Asheville, NC, were honored at a luncheon given by the Foundation. AFS drivers, Rev. Charles E. Johnson (CM 45, FR 6) and C.B. "Chick" Squire (ME 37, IB 57) joined in the celebration. All three of the Asheville-area couples plan to reunite for the QE2 Crossing in July 1997.
AFS HONORED AT THE CEREMONY OF THE SOUVENIR AT THE FRENCH CONSULATE IN JUNE 1996
AFS was again honored this year at the Ceremony of the Souvenir at the French Consulate General on June 18th, 1996. The Ceremony commemorating the anniversary of General de Gaulle's 1940 proclamation to the French people paid tribute to those who died in the service of France. In attendance were Monsieur Patrick Gautrat, Minister Plenipotentiary Consul General of France, Bruce Boeglin, President of the Federation of French War Veterans, Col. Roger Cestac, Dr. Rudolphe Coigney, President of the Association of the Free French, Reverend Harry Tercelin, and Eleanora Golobic, AFS Archivist. The Ceremony included a Roll-call of the Dead for all those who gave their life for France during World War I and World War II. This included French living in the United States and American Volunteers of the Escadrille Lafayette and the AFS. The Ceremony ended with the laying of the wreath and taps followed by a recording of General de Gaulle's Call to Arms.
AFS DRIVERS PARTIOPATE INlHE 1996 VETERANS DAY CEREMONY IN BOISE by Colin Gemmell (CM 92, IB 60- T) Through an invitation to participate in the Boise, Idaho, ceremonies in observance of Veterans Day (Armistice Day), Jack Leonard (CM 88), Fred Burkhard (eM 83), and Colin Gemmell (CM 92, IB 60-T), believed to be the only AFS Volunteers living in Idaho, decided that presenting the Williamsburg Ambulance for public viewing would be an interesting introduction to the AFS. The Ambulance had been trailered from Connecticut to Spokane, WAin August of 1996, where work proceeded on details at a rather leisurely pace. In preparing for the Veterans Day event, the vehicle was moved to Midvale, ID where it was discovered that the tires were unsafe, having worn military tread. At the cost of two broken breakers bars, the inch and one half lug nuts were removed and the new tires mounted. Next the electrical system was. changed from six to twelve volts, headlights were installed and the choke cable replaced, which increased the dependability factor appreciably. Because of the program starting at 10:00 a.m. on the morning of Veterans Day, it was necessary to drive the ambulance the 60 miles to Boise the previous afternoon. The Idaho State Veterans Home, Hospital, and Administration Buildings are all located within the grounds of a 19th century Army Fort. The lawns and gardens are spacious, the trees plentiful and an aura of dignity and dedication is immediately felt by all who enter. The Veterans Day program, held on Monday, November 11, 1996 in the dining hall of the Veterans Home, consisted of anthems, proclamations, Posting of Colors, introductions and speeches. The [mal item on the program was a talk given by Jack Leonard on the history of the AFS from its WWI origins to the WWII participation and into the Student Exchange Era. At the conclusion of the ceremonies, within
From the cover of The Idaho Statesman, Jack Leonard, left, and Colin Gemmell in front of restored 1942 American Field Service Dodge Ambulance
the hall, the parade formed up on an avenue leading to the front of the building and the reviewing stand. Preceded by the Boise Highlanders Pipes and Drums, the Ambulance with Driver Burkhard and Spare Driver Gemmell occupying the drivers seats slowly moved into position in front of the reviewing stand. For the closing ceremony, a lament, "The Flowers of the Forest" was piped in by Colin Roy Gemmell. Jr.. the benediction was said and a beautiful rendition of taps was sounded by two members of the local National Guard Unit. The Ambulance was the object of much interest. Questions were asked about the insignia. What were the blue, white, and red circles on the hood for? They were for air identification. What does the eagle with the hat mean? It was the insignia of567 A.C.C. Coy, Royal Army Service Corps AFS. Why do you have a white shield with a yellow cross on the back of your ambulance? That was the emblem of the British Eighth Army. Who was the Eighth Army? They were the Army who defeated Rommell in the Western Desert. It was an answer that seemed to
put everything into perspective. TheAFS was also represented by six AFS students hosted in the Boise area. The students: Ekaraj "Ken" Chalermtiaranakal from Thailand, Antonio de la Cuesta Conde from Spain, Anne Grandjacques from France, Sameh Khalil from Egypt, Heida Melan from Finland and Tobias Pettersson from Sweden Left to right: Fred Burkhard and Colin accompanied by Gemmell driving the Ambulance, November 11, Mrs. Hanna Lee Betz of Boise participated as AFS Ushers in the ceremonies. Plans were made to have the AmbuNOTE TO THE DRIVERS: lance in attendance at the Northwest Gathering Mr. Colin Gemmell is planning a trip down of the AFS Exchange Program in April of 1997. the West coast in the spring with the ambulance doors signed by the drivers who atIt was a very satisfying experience for the tended the Williamsburg reunion. Each door is three drivers to represent the WWII AFS. Our identified with the insignia of 485 ACC Coy ambulance was visual testimony to the organizaand 567 ACC Coy. This is an opportunity for tion that was and is so little known but rememdrivers in the area who have not signed yet to bered with gratitude by those we served. get their signature on the doors. Mr. Gemmell The present day AFS Student Exchange asks that all interested drivers contact him Program is an appropriate and living memorial to directly. His address: the past. 840 North Crane Road, Midvale, ID 83645.
AFSTODAY AFS recently held its eighth World Congress in Istanbul, Turkey. The World Congress is an opportunity jor the National Directors and National Chairpersons oj the AFS Partner Organizations to come together and plan the organization's priorities jor the year ahead. The jollowing is a summary oj what took place.
AFS Prepares for The Global Age at World Congress 1996 Over 170 participants from 55 nations gathered for the AFS World Congress in Istanbul, a city bridging two continents and many cultures. This was AFS' 8th World Congress. A spirit of commitment to action tempered by thorough discussion prevailed throughout the Congress which was held from the 6th to the 11th of October. The mood was uplifting and positive as AFS acknowledged its entrance into a new phase of its development in the context of the Global Age. As AFS approaches a new century-that coincides with the global revolution in communications and profound changes in the international scene it is ever more critical that AFS invest in organizational development and strengthen the Partnership system to ensure AFS' future in an increasingly competitive market and rapidly changing world. The Major outcomes of the Congress were in the area of Programs. A clear commitment was made to stimulate the development and growth of AFS programs, both core and traditional. This included the endorsement of developing "community service programs" as core programs. Partners expressed strong support for moving forward with a new and more flexible financial system, the FFF. And in a final session all Partners supported using the common name and logo. The World Congress opened on Monday
morning with speeches from Jim Cooney, Chair of the International Board of Trustees and Richard Spencer, President of AFS. Jim stressed the meaning and importance of leadership in a time of democratic transition. Richard suggested that as we embark on the Congress we maintain a close connection with the AFS mission which appeared on a banner in the plenary room. Richard also conveyed a story from Norm Eddy, former AFS Driver, (see box) about Fire flies of hope and remembered Mauricio Dantas who died recently in a tragic car accident in Brazil. He urged Partners to "treasure the sense of the legacy of those who have gone before us, such as the drivers and Mauricio Dantas." He encouraged Partners to remember three things as they began the Congress "our successes of the past year, our mission and the legacy of those individuals who have gone before us which challenges us to carry the legacy forward into the future." As the congress began participants were urged to be pragmatic idealists and to get to the "how to". From then on the Congress was off to a running start. Despite the jet lag most participants were able to keep up lively conversation into the wee hours. Between plenary sessions and small group discussions, at every free moment from breakfast to bedtime, bilateral conversations between Partners filled the cracks in an already busy schedule. Despite the intensity of the workday, participants were able to enjoy some of the fruits of Turkey's rich culture thanks to our gracious
"In retrospect, I believe that the WC was very successful not only because we were able to deal with key i~sues that will set how we will conduct our activities in the next century, but because by havmg such a tremendous group of people in one place you generate a lot of energy that hopefully will translate in to action." - Samuel Sangiieza, National Director, AFS Bolivia
hosts. AFS Turkey welcomed participants with a series of cultural events at the end of each day. One evening we enjoyed dinner on a boat as we sailed up the Bosphorus between the two continents. On Thursday we were treated to a cultural evening. Our meal started with a "mezze" or array of various traditional Turkish dishes. Towards the end ofthe meal the room was darkened and then pierced by candle light carried in by dancers in traditional Turkish costume. On the last evening Partners celebrated the closing of the Conference with a special dinner and bore gifts to thank AFS TUrkey for being so hospitable. The Congress was well covered by the local newspapers and television. Every day reporters were on the scene interviewing participants such as Edwin Masback, Former AFS Driver and Life Trustee, Tanju Akan, AFS Returnee and Trustee, Jim Cooney, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. A Turkish International TV Program interviewed Wayne Edwards, Vice Chairperson of the Board of Trustees for a program to be aired throughout Europe. During World Congress participants reaffirmed commitment to the mission statement defined at the 1993 World Congress .. Partners at the 1996 World Congress acknowledged the ongoing importance of initiatives from the 1993 World Congress and previous Partner Conferences. These initiatives include: introducing Global Education into AFS programs, increasing AFS funding resources, developing quality management and utilizing information technology. World Congress 1996 wrapped up on a high with the feeling that much had been accomplished and much is now to be done before we reconvene in 1997 in Montreal. The Task Forces have their work cut out for them, as do Partners in bringing the outcomes of stimulating discussions to the practical level of their national realities and conveying what took place with their staff and volunteers at home. Tesekkfu ederim (thank you) AFS TKV Turkey for your warm hospitality!
"The inhabitants of tropical America sometimes keep fireflies in small cages for the purpose of illumination. .. " Encyclopedia Britannica Fireflies are bright, surprising sparks as they flit about on a dark summer evening. In some parts of tropical America, people collect them, put them in small cages, and use them as little lanterns in places where there is neither electricity nor other artificial sources of light. In the darkness of much of life, pervaded these days by drugs, hunger, homelessness, and the well-known list of other sufferings and injustices there are thousands of little groups of compassionate activists. Each group, on its own, is helping to alleviate one or another form or human misery. Once in a while, someone brings them together and forms a flexible organization made up of those with the same concern. They become lanterns, bright enough to illuminate the path of freedom from unnecessary pain. Not everyone knows how to or even thinks of capturing individual fireflies. Even fewer have the inclination to build the little cages to put them in. But in a modem democratic world, when this does happen, the collective light of compassionate action groups does more than provide illumination. United, they generate power, both spiritual and political, the necessary mixture of ingredients to help more individuals and to bring about profound and lasting change in our society. Reverend Norman Eddy Former AFS Driver (ME4, CM88) Member of the International Board of Trustees
ACCESSIONS During the last year Archives received and processed 28 accessions which ranged from WWI and WWII drivers personal collections to the visual materials and artifacts of the student programs. The following donors presented WWI and WWII materials to AFS Archives: John P. Nelson; his book Letters and Diaries of David T. Nelson 1914-1919 (The Anundsen Publishing Co., Decorah, Iowa, 1996) based on letters home and diaries of his father, David T. Nelson who served with AFS Section 1 in France in December 1915 - April 1916; copies and a list of the photos from picture scrapbook of David T. Nelson, December, 1915 - April, 1916. Roger Griswold; WWI French poster by Abel Faivre from the collection of his father, Roger Griswold (SSU 2) who served with AFS Section 2 in 1916; sepia enlargement of Waldo Peirce's (SSU 3) photograph with his sons (1932). Timothy Bent, Arcade Publishers; Arlen J. Hansen's book, Gentlemen Volunteers (Arcade Publishers, New York, 1996). This book dealing with the American Ambulance Drivers in the Great War was researched in the Archives and it is the ambulance of Joseph G. Weld (SSU 1) at Bois d'Avocourt in the Verdun sector that's featured on the cover. Cynthia Mills Cote; newspaper clippings and biographical materials (1917-1962) on her father Walker Mills (TMU 133); photos of the Ordway WWI shell vase. Walker Mills served with the AFS Reserve Mallet in 1917 and was instrumental in organizing the AFS Student Exchange Programs in Michigan after World War II. Frank Mauran; photographic enlargements from the WWI album of his father, Frank Mauran, Jr. (Hdqts). Frank Mauran's 1916 photographs include the Lycee Pasteur, AFS WWI Paris headquarters at 21rue Raynouard, Section 1 at Verdun and SSU 1 cantonment at La Grange-aux-Bois.
Willard Walker (CM 94, m 59-T); his memoir "Workin' For Galatti's Lira: An AFS Driver's Recollections of Cross-Cultural Encounters in WWII" (1996) drawing on his experiences in Italy and India while serving with A Platoon of AFS 485 Coy. Carl Adam (ME 8, ME 16, FR 8); his WWII personal collection, including typed originals of the AFS shipboard publication "Torpedo Times" published by the Unit ME 16 in July 1942 during the voyage to the Middle East; three editions of "The AFS Bulletin", 1943-1944, which Mr. Adam edited. Alexa McColl Kerr; a hardbound edition of Letters Home (Press Onward, Pinehurst, North Carolina, 1995) based on the late WWII volunteer, George B. Kerr's (FR 4) letters written during his AFS service with the First French Army in November 1944 - June 1945. Dr. Bayard Clarkson (CM 90); letters to his parents from Italy and Germany, September 1944 - May 17, 1945 (Dr. Clarkson served with D Platoon 567 Coy during the liberation and rescue of surviving inmates ofthe Bergen Belsen concentration camp); captioned photographs; his biography by Sidney We inhouse (1995). Mrs. Doris Birkett; a photograph of her husband John G. Birkett's (m 1) medical evacuation invention (a stretcher attached to motorcycle) used in Burma in 1943-44. Michael J. Scully (CM 92, m 60-T); collection of photographs and negatives taken during the liberation of the Bergen Belsen concentration camp. Thomas M. Sawyer (m 11, CM 95- T); videobiography of General William Slim, Commander of the 14th British army in Burma (BBC history series "The Commanders", 6, "Bill Slim, Field Marshall British Army, 1970). Dr. Stefano Galli, Intercultura Italy volunteer; his book Da New York a Bergen Belsen: L 'altra guerra di William Congdon (l942-1945},published by The Foundation For Improving Understanding ofthe Arts, Milan, 1995.
C. B. Squire (ME 37, m 57); Tres Riches Heures (1992), a memoir by Lydia Chamberlin, wife of Ward Chamberlin (ME 37, CM 104, m 59-T). William H. Thorn (ME 37); his WWII collection preserved by his father containing correspondence, maps, a publication on the history of Baalbek (Syria) and sun compass instructions, 1942-1945; AFS WWII drivers' book collection, including the titles by James R. Ullman (ME 9), Patrick Dennis (ME 37, FR 3- T), Andrew Geer (ME 1), Evan Thomas (ME 1) and the earliest history of the AFS Friends of France (1916). Clifford Bissler (m 31); newspaper clipping on meeting Desmond K. Payne, the British captain that saved him in the battle of Mandalay on 10 March 1945. Bissler and Payne reunited in Florida in September 1996 after 51 years. John W. Leonard (CM 88); materials on AFS participation in the observation of the 1996 Veterans Day in Boise, Idaho, which include a copy ofthe speech given by Leonard at the ceremony, invitation, program and newspaper clippings covering the event. Colin Gemmell (CM 92, m 60-T); an account of the 1996 Veterans Day ceremony; Hugh Gemmell; 7 color prints and an enlargement of the AFS drivers assisting in the 1996 Boise Veterans Day ceremony. Peter Warren (ME 32, FR 4); his WWII reminiscences "War Diary, January 10, 1943 - January 9, 1944" (1995) drawing on his experiences in the Middle East and Italy with A Platoon 567 Coy. The diary ends with the January 1994 entry. In August 1944, Warren re-enlisted with an AFS unit attached to the French First Army. Frederick Wackernagel, Jr. (ME 37); his WWII uniform collection 1943-1944; including a British army issue lightweight khaki jacket, khaki shirt, two v-neck khaki sweaters, suede work boots, a Red Cross arm band and a tin of shoe dubbing. All items are labeled and include AFS insignia.
Donald J. Bragg (ME 2, m 5); memorabilia of his service in North Africa and India-Burma which include photographs, maps, personal records, an AFS I.D. bracelet, luggage tags and printed materials. Of much interest are WWII Japanese manuscript maps of Burma and a good-luck Japanese flag. During World War II Japanese soldiers wore the flags around their waists as good-luck charms when they went into battle. The flags were signed by the soldier, and usually his family and companions in his company or regiment. The donors of the AFS Intercultural Programs materials include: Doris Wilkins, AFS-USA; framed photograph of Stephen Rhinesmith, former AFS International!Intercultural Programs President, 1987. Mary Whiting, AFS-USA; color slides of the AFS student programs from 1980s. Carolyn Parker: phonograph record of the songs played on the mls "Seven Seas" in 1961. Dianne Howarth, AFS volunteer; AFS gold pin given to the AFS volunteers with her name inscribed, 197071. Helen I. Marieskind, student to New Zealand, 19621963; AFS birthday card signed by Stephen Galatti; Stephen Galatti' s handwritten note to her, 1964. Susanne Sebert, AFS Trustee and student to Germany Summer 1959-1960; memorabilia scrapbook documenting her AFS experience including printed materials, postcards, maps and the records of the 1959 crossing of the sls "Groote Beer", April 1959August 1959.
ARCHIVAL EXHIBITS AND RESEARCH IN THE ARCHIVES Christopher M. Cook, a writer and producer associated with the A&E History Channel, conducted extensive research in the Archives on AFS WWI Ford ambulances and AFS in World War II. Mr. Cook is producing a TV series on the history of the ambulances in relation to warfare and civilian rescue use. The AFS WWI volunteers used Ford ambulances (Military Model T) in their evacuation work which consisted of bringing wounded from the First Aid Posts at the front to the base hospitals in the rear. The ambulance drivers of the Field Service evacuated more than half a million French wounded in World War 1. The AFS Archives contains original film footage and visual records of the Field Service in France in the Great War which has never been shown on TV. Mr. Cook was particularly impressed with AFS WWI recruiting and fundraising film "Our Friend France" (1916). We also made available to him AFS WWII films "Letter from Libya (1943) and "American Field Service in India-Burma" (1944). According the producer the History Channel should be airing selected AFS WWI photos and the clips from the films in mid June 1997, this may be subject to scheduling change. We are pleased that the program will publicize AFS and promote the knowledge and understanding of the origins oftheAFS.
Last July AFS Archives sent a historical exhibit based on archival materials to Brazil for the celebration of the 40th Anniversary of Intercultura Brazil, AFS' Partner in that country. The materials were on display during the General Assembly of the Intercultura. f'"'OooJ
AFS Belgium Flanders presented selections of photographs from the Archives representing the historical phases of the organization as part of inauguration of their new office in September 1996.
Dr. Stefano B. Galli, an Intercultura Italy returnee and volunteer, recent!' ublished a book on William G. Congdon's AFS service during WWII titled Da New York a Bergen Belsen: L 'altra guerra di William Congdon (1942-1945). The book focuses on William Congdon's (ME 20, CM 90) experiences as an AFS volunteer ambulance driver from the dunes of EI Alamein through the Italian campaign and finally as a witness to the liberation ofthe
William Congdon next to his AFS ambulance, 1943 (photograph by George Holton). Bergen Belsen concentration camp. Dr. Galli's book is based on the letters Congdon wrote to his family in Providence, RI, his War Diary and his poem "In the Death of One". The book contains new information and develops new visions of the World War II in Italy. It has received positive reviews and it offers important source material for the AFS volunteers, since it is a key to the discovery of the history and roots of the AFS. The English edition ofthe book will soon be published in America. In the future Dr. Galli expressed interest in coming to the Archives to interview the drivers who participated in the Italian campaign. He is especially interested in the volunteers' vision of Italy during the Second World War. We have pointed out that the AFS Archives publication The Saga of Section Six describes the AFS drivers experiences in Italy between 1943-1944. If you wish to contact Dr. Galli, his address is: Dr. Stefano B. Galli, via Diaz, 22, 20021 Bollate (Mi), Italy.
"What a treasure trove the AFS Archives are!" We were able to assist Wendy Zemanek (Cossham) of the AFS New Zealand in her preparation of the history of the AFS student exchanges in New Zealand. This organizational history will be available in connection with the 50th Anniversary observations held by the AFS Intercultural Programmes New Zealand beginning with the ANZAC Day 1997. The AFS New Zealand plans to use a restored 1917 Model T Ford ambulance as the focal point for their celebration. In connection with the 50th Anniversary AFS Germany requested the history of the corporate names and logos used by the AFS Intercultural Programs over the years. AFS Germany plans to introduce new Anniversary logo this year. Archives was also involved in the compilation of the 50th Anniversary Kit, which was distributed to all AFS Partners in preparation for the celebration of the AFS 50th Anniversary of Student Exchange in 1997. This comprehensive publicity kit contains a variety of historical and statistical information on AFS Intercultural Programs and is available upon request.
In step with the Global Age you
can now find the history of the AFS in photos and text on the World Wide Web. An AFS Web Page titled "AFS Images Through Time" presents the AFS through the decades from the beginnings until the present. The page features the photos of A. P. Andrew, Stephen Galatti, AFS in WWI and WWII, Arthur Howe and George van Santvoord and the AFS participant pictures. In addition there are photos of AFS students with U.S. Presidents, and Martin Luther King Jr. Don't miss it. You will find it under AFS Intercultural Programs - AFS History Page. You can access the AFS Home Page on the Web: http:// www.afs.org or you can go directly to the History Page - http://www.afs.org!history
Norman C. Eddy (ME 4, CM 88)
ARTHUR HOWE'S. SPEECH AT THE 50TH DRIVERS REUNION 1995
Mr. Howe's memorable address at the 50th Anniversary Drivers Reunion in Williamsburg, VA is now available from AFS Archives courtesy of Mr. William Thorn and his wife, Sara Lou. Please contact Eleanora Golobic if you would like a copy.
PUBLICATIONS We are pleased to inform the drivers of the latest AFS Archives and Museum publication Worldn' For Galatti's Lira, written by Willard B.Walker (CM 94, IB 59-T). This publication detailing the AFS 485 Coy driver's cross-cultural encounters during his WWII service in Italy and subsequently in India. Mr. Walker is a son of an AFS WWI driver, William H.C. Walker (SSU 2), who was decorated with the Croix de Guerre for his bravery under fire. The book is available for purchase from Archives, it retails for $17.50 plus postage. We would also like to announce "A Driver Remembers", a publication by Charles P. "Fox" Edwards (ME 26) which will be forthcoming next summer. This book of Fox's reminiscences of his AFS and the AMG service 1943-1944 will be extensively illustrated by photographs of North Africa and Italy taken by Jock Cobb (ME 26). Last fall welcomed another publication dealing with an AFS driver's experiences in World War II. Joseph Desloge's (ME 4, FFC, CM 94, IB 59-T) autobiography, Passport To Manhood: Adventures of a WWII Front Line Ambulance Driver with the British and the French Foreign Legion (1995) is dedicated to his father, Joseph Desloge Sr. (TMU 526), who served with the AFS in WWI. The book is available from Mr. Desloge directly, 2711 Shackelford Road, Florissant, MO 63031.
Caroline Holley Joins the Archives Team Caroline Holley has recently joined AFS International as the new Communications Manager. She is also responsible for the administration of the AFS Archives. Caroline brings to AFS a wealth of experience from her previous roles in publications adn communications, mainly with the United Nations Development Program. She has done field work in North and West Africa, Croatia and Bosnia-HerzegovIna
during the war where she produced a video on the work of one of the relief agancies. She holds a Masters degree in International Affairs and Media and Communications from Columbia University in New York. Caroline will be working with Eleanora to ensure that the link with the AFS Drivers is maintained and continues to be an important part of the work of AFS. Eleanora is well known to many of you as a tireless supporter of the preservation of AFS' s history and who continues to work closely with the drivers.
AFSMOVES HEADQUARTERS As of late October 1996 AFS Archives and Museum has moved with the AFS International administration to the new location.
71 W. 23rd Street, 17th Floor New York, NY 10010 Telephone: (212) 807-8686 Fax: (212) 807-1001 E-mail: egolobic@afs.org
Season's Greetings
MAIL RETURNS Below is the list of AFS Volunteer Drivers whose mail has been returned to us. If you know the whereabouts of any of these drivers, please let us know.
David P. Agnew John Bowron Dwight M. Cooper James Joseph Coughlin Frank G. Darte II John F.C. Glenn Crawford Gordon Irving King Duncan B. Murphy Robert Skillings
fromEleanora,BillandCaroline
WISHING YOU A HAPpy AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR!
We at AFS Intercultural Programs lost one of our most distinguished founders, Newell Jenkins, who served in the AFS in the North African and Italian campaigns and with the British Liberation Armies in Germany between June 1942 and July 1945. Mr. Jenkins was wounded at the crossing of Montone River while serving with B Platoon 567 Coy on 20 November 1944. We quote from an article in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette of December 26, 1996. "Newell Jenkins, a noted conductor and musicologist whose discoveries helped expand contemporary perceptions of the Baroque, Classical and early Romantic repertories, died on December 21, 1996 at his home in Hillsdale, NY Newell Jenkins was born in New Haven in 1915, but his principal training was in Germany. He made his professional conducting debut in Purcell's "Dido and Aeneas" in Freiburg in 1935. He completed his studies at Yale University, where he founded the Yale Opera Group in 1940. Mr. Jenkins' specialty was Italian Music, particularly that of Giovanni Battista Sammartini, Gaetano Brunetti and Simone Mayr. Their works were centerpieces of his programs, and he published editions of several of Brunetti's symphonies as well as the first catalog of Sammartini' s music. Beginning in 1950s, Mr. Jenkins visited Europe regularly to search for the early printed editions in palace and monastery archives. With the establishment of the Clarion Music Society in 1957 and the start of the Clarion Concerts series in 1958, listeners were introduced to long lost musical rarities. Mr. Jenkins was on the faculty of New York University from 1964 to 1974 and was a lecturer at the University of California, Irvine, from 1971 to 1979. "
Below are the names of drivers notice of whose death has reached us, some only recently.
Lee A. Ault (ME 16) Lawrence G. Bigelow (CM 41) Donald J. Bragg (ME 2, m 5) Henry H. Breul (CM 41) Frank B. Cliffe (ME 32, CM 94, m 59- T) James B. Francis (m 32) David Gordon (m 57) Newell O. Jenkins (ME 16, CM 92) John F. Miller (CM 75, m 55-T) Alfred P. Parsell (CM 92, m 59-T) James F. Revard (m 40) Winslow W. Sears (CM 43) William G. Shearman (ME 32, FFC, CM 59, FR3-T) LeClair Smith (FR 40, Syria FF, FFC) George Stumpp (ME 20) Everett H. Tasker (m 42) Richard H. Williams 12) Coffin C. Wilson (ME 11, ME 16, FFC)
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A Message from the President After thirty years of dedicated service to AFS, Bill Orrick has decided that it is time to "retire" from his current role as Director of Archives and take things a little easier. Mind you, we are reluctant to call it retirement as Bill will continue to help us in many ways, most particularly in writing about the history ofthe American Field Service from his home in New Jersey. Bill has a marvelous record of achievement with AFS beginning in 1968 when Art Howe persuaded him to leave his position as Headmaster of Solebury School to take up the role of Associate Director of Programs. Very quickly Bill became an indispensable member of the leadership team in expanding the student exchange programs through one of the most dynamic periods in the history of the organization. In 1980, Bill moved on to the newly created role of Director of Archives. At that time AFS was in danger of letting its history become a distant memory with no apparent relevance to the student exchange programs. Bill was not about to let that happen. He understood absolutely that our history in the earlier part of this century had forged the values of tolerance and understanding that underpin our work today and will be the foundation of our future. Bill set about to ensure that our history was recorded and accessible so that the lessons and experiences of the past could guide our future. Many drivers were encouraged to donate personal mementos and accounts of their experiences which now form a rich resource for today's generation (take a quick glance at the archive section of our home page on the World Wide Web). As well, Bill was tireless in his efforts to keep the drivers in touch with each other and at crucial times to represent their interests in Washington with the Veterans Administration. The following comments best capture the spirit of Bill's outstanding contribution over the past thirty years: From Art Howe: "Your wisdom of experience, your caring for others, your long hours of disciplined and productive labor, your conspicuous but quiet dignity and your patience in drawing forth the best in staff, students, volunteers and all others associated with AFS has created a beacon for all that matter most in this extraordinary organization. It would be impossible to over-estimate the length and depth to which your contributions have reached." From Ward Chamberlin: "You have done so much to hold together the straggling band of survivors from W.W.II and the volunteers and staff who put so much into the early days of the scholarship program. Thanks to you, and with the help of others, our AFS Partners around the world know and care very much about the history of this organization. Thanks to you, we have in print form the record of that history and a remarkable collection of firsthand accounts. AFS has always let its actions speak for it - in the ambulance days and in the scholarship program. It was not and is not based on ideology, but rather on practical idealism - helping where help is needed and can make a difference, and where the results are in saving lives to or enlarging lives to live productively in this shrinking globe" Please join with me in thanking Bill for his great service to AFS and in wishing him a happy "retirement".
AFS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF STUDENT EXCHANGE the world, AFS New Zealand is well on its way to fulfilling an ambitious project to mark its own and International's 50th. Starting with a bare chassis, they are building an ambulance of the type used by American Field Service drivers in World War I and during this year will tour it throughout New Zealand, attracting attention to both our current programs and our heritage. Sponsorship of this project has come in all shapes and sizes; a cash donation from the Ford Model 'T' Club, free advice and consultation from the editor of Driver magazine, hundreds of volunteer hours from dedicated car fanatics and the "sale" of various items such as the scuttle and dash, brake rods, upholstery, hub caps etc. right down to nuts and bolts at $10 a set. Chapters and individuals all around N.Z. are contributing to the effort, opportunities to help include the purchase of a battery ($60) or a spark plug or two ($30 each) or one of five tires (at $1,000 each). AFS Guatemala is organizing a Bus Trip to NYC in time for the 50th Anniversary festivities. Volunteers of all ages will be on board and AFSers from other parts of the world are welcome to join in the fun. Touring and hosting activities are planned for the stop-overs in each country. The trip will start in Panama around the Here is.what's being planned: Long a sea-faring nation, Norway has 12th of July, stopping in San Jose (Costa Rica), Managua (Nicaragua), San Salvador (EI Salvathrown its energies into making the dream of dor), Guatemala City and San Marcos (Guatemany to recreate the Atlantic crossings of bymala), Oaxaca, Mexico City and Monterrey gone AFS years a reality. Chartering the QE2 (Mexico), (still to be confirmed) San Antonio for five days from Southampton to New York, (TX), Arkansas, Tennessee, Washington DC and has been a massive undertaking but the response fmally arriving in NYC on the 31st of July. from every comer of the world has proved the "The idea is to combine human relations power of nostalgia. Just through this one initiabetween the participants and the chapters where tive, we have been able to reconnect with hundreds of Returnees who have been 'lost' to us for we will stay, just as we did in the famous AFS bus trips at the end of our year in the USA," many decades. The challenge now for every writes Marisol De Leon, AFS Guatemala VolunPartner organization is to continue this process teer and Bus Trip Coordinator. The planners are and ensure their data bases are as complete as hoping that the hosting chapters and bus pass enhumanly possible.In the Anitpodean comer of
Where will you be in the Summer of 19977 Sailing into New York aboard the QE2 with 1500 other members of the AFS family? Completing an AFS bus journey through Central and North America? Joining the throngs in New York city on August 1 & 2 for a weekend festival of celebrations? Or gathering members of your own, local AFS family for press conferences, archival exhibits, picnics, gala dinners, educational seminars, concerts etc. in celebration of AFS' 50 years of high school exchanges? All of the above - and more - are planned as part of marking the occasion of our 50th birthday this year and right through to September 1998. We'll only be 50 once so we should make some pretty spectacular organizational efforts to ensure it is not only an Anniversary to remember but a point of departure for the next 50 years. The AFS family is large and all-embracing and what better family to gather together in the reunion tradition of milestone birthdays? Various committees and groups around the world have been working away on areas of specific interest or expertise they believe will contribute to our combined efforts to celebrate "the 50th".
gers will join together in making this .trip an unforgettable experience. Right where the AFS student programs began - New York City - AFS-USA has a keen committee planning the August I & 2 activities which will serve as the World Reunion. Early risers will be on the dock when the QE2 sails in on Friday, August 1 to provide a colorful and noisy welcome, which should also attract some media attention. In the evening a gala dinner, open to all, will gather QE2 passengers and all others joining from around the world and USA to enjoy entertainment and a festive American regional cuisine. On Saturday, August 2, an all-comers event will be staged in Manhattan; food, m~sic and entertainment from around the world will give the flavors of AFS to thousands of visitors and enable group reunions of all kinds to take place amongst our own family. Any group seeking an opportunity to reunite is encouraged to contact the committee at the 50th e-mail address listed below. Former AFS staff and volunteers from the earliest years of the program will gather to reminisce over events and memories that made working and volunteering for AFS a very special experience, never to be forgotten.
Working closely with these committees to maximize the impact of their activities for the benefit of the whole system will be the soon-toappointed Director of 50th Anniversary Activities at AFS International.
The AFS "Old Timer's" Reunion, August 2,1997 in New York City
The QE2 AFS Anniversary Crossing
In connection with the 50th Anniversary celebration of the AFS student programs a special gathering is being planned to reunite AFS student exchange program "Old Timers": the staff, volunteers, directors and trustees from all over the world who shared in the early days of the programs up to 1972. This event will be held at the United Nation's Delegates Dining Room from 6 to 10pm following the all day International Festival on Saturday, August 2, 1997. It will include cocktails, dinner and a program. Please contact Elga Bier, 78 Diamond Crest Lane, Stamford, CT 06903 if you would like to attend. Phone and fax: (203) 968-8991.
There are still spaces available on the QE2. Inquiries should be directed to AFS Norway by fax: 4722401 150, 'phone: 47 22 401 100 or email: gbroch@afs.org. For information on events in New York City on 1-2 August, 1997, contact AFS USA.Cynthia Reeder at 50yrs@AFS.org or fax 212-299-9090. For assistance with reserving accomodations in New York during the festivities please contact AFS Travel, fax: (212) 352-9826, tel: (212) 3529808 or e-mail: mstillwe@afs.org Information on the Bus Trip from Central America to New York City is available from Mariso1 De Leon, AFS Guatemala, e-mail: guajbarr@afs.org or fax: (5023) 692-109. Visit the AFS Home Page on the World Wide Web: http://www.afs.org for the latest on Anniversary activities.
We are pleased to include the following list of AFS drivers and their wives who have said they hope to participate in the QE2 Crossing so far: Ward and Lydia Chamberlin DeWitt Morrill Edward Hay Arthur and Barbara Whitehouse Robert and Dorre Kennedy Laurel and Virginia Grant Richard Nelson Chick and Elizabeth Squire D.A. Weaver Rev. Charles and Constance Book Rev. Charles and Jean Johnson Charles and Nancy Cole Richard Whorrall.