The Milford American Legion, Ernest F. Oldenburg, Post 216 held their 2nd Annual World War II Veterans Dinner on Sunday, December 7th. The following 13 Veterans were honored: Ed See, Edward Sikora, Bob Kurtz, Nortty Caswell, Joe Adler, William Finley, Merlin Feigley, Cliff Forsythe, Don Good, Ethel Good, Hohn Opalko, Chester Johnson, and Donald Underhill. December 7th is a very special date for these veterans as well as the United States. The phrase "a date which will live in infamy" was spoken by then U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt as he referred to December 7, 1941, the day that the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor.
The attack on Pearl Harbor happened in the morning between 7:55 am and 9:45 am. This attack caught the U.S. by surprise. The Japanese main attack was to have been the aircraft carriers, but these were not anchored at Pearl Harbor at this time. They changed the focus to the U.S. Pacific fleet which had eight of their nine battleships anchored in the harbor. Of the eight, seven were lined up to what is referred to as Battleship row. All eight of these battleships were either sunk or severely damaged. Out of these eight, six were later able to be returned to active duty. The Arizona exploded after a bomb breached the forward magazine or what is also known as the ammunition room. Approximately there were 355 survivors and 1,100 U.S. servicemen who died on board. The other battleship, Oklahoma was hit by a torpedo that it listed, rolled over on its side, so badly that it turned upside down. On December 8, 1941 the United States entered WWII.
Entertainment was provided by The Chiffon Sisters who sang 40’s style vocal harmony which included some Anderson Sisters songs. As they finished they had everyone sing each branch song, say the Pledge of Allegiance, and sing the Star Spangle Banner. Each Veteran was honored by being presented with a certificate and a medal. Others present offering assistance was Ernest F. Oldenburg, portrayed by Dale Feigley, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 216, the Sons of the America Legion Squadron 216 and the American Legion Riders. A special Thank You to the following businesses that helped with donations for the dinner goes out to: Milford Rotary Club, Comeback Inn, Bakers of Milford, VCS Pets First, For Feet’s Sake, and FAV, Inc. (Friends of American Veterans). The dinner to recognize these special veterans was organized by Sr. Vice Commander Norm Tibbs and Jr. Vice Commander Bill Colegrove.
Interested in knowing more about the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, The Sons of the American Legion or the American Legion Riders call the Post at 248-684-9919.
