Dick De Weerd will leave this week for Fort Des Moines where he will receive orders for active duty.
Source: Sioux Center News Jan. 29, 1942 p 8
The Young Men and Women Societies of the 2nd Christian Reformed Church had a surprise on Dick De Weerd Tuesday night. This was a farewell gesture as Dick will be inducted into the U. S. Army on Friday.
Source: Sioux Center News Jan. 29, 1942 p 5
Dick De Weerd, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert De Weerd was among the latest group that left from Orange City last Friday.
Source: Sioux Center News Feb. 5, 1942 p 12
There are nine Sioux County boys in Texas now. They are the last group to leave and among them are Billie Moerman, Dick Vander Hoef, Bert Bruinsma and Dick De Weerd who are at Camp Wolters, Texas.
Source: Sioux Center News Feb. 12, 1942 p 8
Dick De Weerd likes the army fine and sends his new and correct address: Dick De Weerd 37112359, Co. B 53rd Tng. Bn., Camp Wolters, Texas.
Source: Sioux Center News Feb. 19, 1942 p 8
58 Soldiers From Sioux Center Vicinity
SEND OMITTED NAMES OF MEN IN SERVICE
The American Legion has been sending inspirational letters each month to the soldiers of the Sioux Center vicinity and are anxious to have a complete list of the men in the service. The NEWS has published the names of the men who left to serve their country in the "NEWS ABOUT OUR SOLDIERS" column. Please contact the NEWS if any soldier has been omitted or if the rank is not correct in the list which follows:
.....
Pvt. Dick De Weerd
.....
Keep the Sioux Center News informed when your soldier has a promotion in rank, change of address, or just a line about how he is getting along. Little sidelights on the activities of the men under arms are of interest to everyone. Call us anytime and give us a news item on the man who has gone to serve his country in the time of war. The News Reporter cannot contact each one of you every week so your cooperation will be appreciated. Every letter from the soldiers indicate a great deal of pleasure is derived in reading about his fellow "Buddy" and the mutual experiences in the U.S. service.
Source: Sioux Center News March 26, 1942 p 7
Dick De Weerd sends his address minus the serial number. Pvt. Dick De Weerd, Co. B 53rd Tng. Bn., Camp Wolters, Texas. Dick is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert De Weerd who live near Sioux Center. He has proved himself a sharpshooter while in the army by scoring a hit 352 times out of 300 at the bull’s eye. At the present time 12 soldiers in his barracks have the measles.
Source: Sioux Center News Apr. 2, 1942 p 8
Camp Wolters, Texas
May 18, 1942
What a fresh “Rookie” tells an “Ol’ Sojer”
Dear Legionnaires:
During the four months that I have been in the service, I believe your Post has written me three morale building letters. I sure appreciate the spirit you “Ol’ Sojers” have in the new buddies. No doubt the spirit which we possess coincides with the spirit you old boys had back in the 19’s. We were both forced to do a task, a dreaded one, which in no way at all fits in with our American way of doing things. But, since the job must be done, we are doing what you have done; thumbs up, chest out, heads high, and our hope in the God of all peoples. History has shown us that you “Old Boys” were successful and your mission had been accomplished. Well, we young Americans which represent the New Army, feel that we have in us the same intuition that you boys had in the ‘19s. So from the mental standpoint of view it looks as if our morale is strapped with iron bands. And no matter what this war brings before us, we can do the same as you have done, take it and like it and don’t dodge duty – like some “goldbricks” are doing at home.
Our Uncle Sam is asking us to put in full-time under strenuous and hazardous conditions and we feel that if you could do it, so can we.
You don’t know what an encouragement enters us when we read in our home papers that the people are buying more and more bonds, donating to the Red Cross, and the U.S.O. Even many soldiers in the Armed Forces spend 10 to 20 percent of their small earnings on stamps and bonds.
Well, all I have to say is, keep up the work for its donations of that nature which help win the war, besides all taxes we pay for tanks, bombers, and warships.
Now to write a few lines about “civilian” morale. By all means don’t let it bog down, no matter how bad the war situation may look at times – don’t leave the morale crack – for if your “busts” ours goes with it.
While we are busy performing our duty, we want you to back us up. Everyone, no slackers in this tremendous struggle for genuine peace and liberty.
We all have a REAL job in our hands: but if we all WORK; our dividends shall be victory.
WORK, NOT WORRY, WILL WIN THE WAR.
Finally, “Good Luck” to you people on the home front – keep your nose clean – and GOD BLESS YOU.
An American Soldier,
Acting Corporal Dick De Weerd
Source: Sioux Center News May 28, 1942 p 8
Dick De Weerd, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert De Weerd of Sioux Center, informed his parents that he is now on Angel Island just off the coast of California where he is waiting to be sent to some new post. His address is: Pvt. Dick De Weerd 37112359, U. S. Army, APO 1714, c.o. Postmaster, San Francisco, Calif.
Source: Sioux Center News June 4, 1942 p 8
Pvt. Dick De Weerd in Hawaii
According to the first letter received by Mr. and Mrs. Bert De Weerd who live near Sioux Center, their son, Dick, is now stationed in Hawaii with the U. S. forces. The first letter came last week and several have arrived since. Dick says that he has plenty of good food, fruits are popular in the Hawaiian Islands having as many as 6 at one meal. The soldiers have good beds and are well taken care of. His address is: Pvt. Dick De Weerd 37112359, Headquarters Co. 24th Inf. Div., APO No. 957, c.o. Postmaster, San Francisco, Calif. Pvt. De Weerd has been separated from the rest of the Sioux Center boys, however Dick Vander Hoef whom he was with in the U.S.A. is now also in the Hawaiian Islands.
Pvt. De Weerd sends a clipping home to his parents which strikes close at the heart of most of the boys in the service. It is entitled: Boys Far Away From Home Are News Hungry. In this article an army censor gives advice to those writing to the soldiers and sailors, in other words the do’s and don’ts. The censor says, “Write as frequently as possible and include everything you think of. Letters from home are the greatest morale builders for troops in foreign lands.”
“Nothing is too trivial to be of interest to the boys. Write everything about the family and the neighbors. If the cat has kittens, or the mare breaks a leg, tell him that too.
Of course, do not write anything about defense projects in your vicinity. But don’t hesitate to tell him anything else, including the effect the war has had on your family life.
Censors are vitally interested in seeing that the boys get all possible news, and they will OK almost anything you write.
You don’t have to have a special kind of paper or ink. Just write with whatever materials you have, see that the letter is properly addressed and it will be delivered as quickly as possible.”
Source: Sioux Center News July 9, 1942 p 4
Return address:
P.F.C. Dick De Weerd 37112359
Headquarters Company 24th Inf. Div.
APO No. 957
c.o. Postmaster, San Francisco, Calif.
PFC Dick De Weerd is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert De Weerd living near Sioux Center and is stationed in Hawaii where he does office work. He was transferred from Camp Wolters, Texas to Angel Island, arriving in Hawaii June 16th.
Source: Sioux Center News Aug. 20, 1942 p 2
Promoted to Private First Class
Dick De Weerd, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert De Weerd of Sioux Center, has been promoted to the rank of Private First Class in the U. S. army. There has been a slight change in his address: P.F.C. Dick De Weerd 37112359, Headquarters Co. 24th Inf. Div. APO No. 24, c.o. Postmaster, San Francisco, Calif. P.F.C. De Weerd is located in the Hawaiian Islands with the army.
Source: Sioux Center News Sept. 10, 1942 p 8
Soldier Sends Home a Poem
Pvt. First Class Dick De Weerd, son of Bert De Weerd of Orange City sent the following poem to his parents. Dick is located in Hawaii. His address: PFC Dick De Weerd 37112359, U.S. Army, Headquarters Co., 24th Inf. Div., APO 957, c.o. Postmaster, San Francisco, Calif.
Help me to place in Thy hands today,
The thing that my heart most fears.
Tomorrow’s anguish and bitter pain
Tomorrow’s sorrow and tears.
Ease Thou my burden, and lighten my load
Until only today is left.
Soft come his voice in the hush of my soul,
“O broken heart, and bereft.”
My grace is sufficient for thee today,
Pillow upon my breast
Thy weary head, in my circling arms,
Thou shalt find rest.
Today I can meet thine every need
And today my love can fill
The echoing chambers of thine heart
Then rest thee, and be still.
Be still and trust, tomorrow’s cares
May all be wiped away
By God himself, O grieving heart,
The Lord may come today.
Source: Sioux Center News Sept. 17, 1942 p 2
Joe Franken Meets Dick De Weerd in Hawaii
November 31, 1942
Dear Ed:
Hello there Ed. Well fella I guess you remember me. I’m fine and like my new job in Hawaii just swell. I was just thinking it’s a year ago that I left and was it cold; just like it is now. But here in Hawaii it’s always the same, sunshine and rain and rain and rain, yet its grand here. I get to swim almost every week, sometimes twice a week. I guess the practice I had in the sandpit helped me plenty, Ed. Mail service is very good. There is a slight change in my address, only as far as the rate is concerned. I was over to see Dick De Weerd a few weeks ago and really had a good talk about better times. Now I’m about all set for to hit my sack cause sometimes I get quite sleepy. I guess it’s the climate. Now I’m undecided about whether or not I should write my girl another page or you, I guess she wins Ed. Well now that the boys have left I guess the town is pretty quiet. Hear my old ship-mate was in town. So long Ed. Will write you later, much later.
From Frank the Sailor
Joe Franken Msth 2-c
U. S. Sub Base Shop No. 8
E & R Pearl Harbor,
Territory of Hawaii.
Source: Sioux Center News Dec. 10, 1942 p 7
Soldier Letter
December 25, 1942
Dear Ed:
Pardon me for not writing sooner. I have just completed reading the November 26 issue of your wonderful paper. As I read paragraph after paragraph my thoughts were with all the “home folks”. I could see you people all going to the Christmas services. Snow was on the ground, people were clad in warm clothes, and cars were proceeding slowly toward the houses of worship. The spirit of Christmas could be noted everywhere. There was Christmas Cheer; at the end of another year.
This has been my first Christas away from home. It was a queer and unusual one. Especially the surroundings at this so-called ‘Paradise of the Pacific’ do not coincide with the usual snow bound jovial season which is customary in Iowa. While you people are working up huge appetites clearing your paths of snow, we are cutting lawns, trimming hedges and contaminating mosquitoes breeding nests. Quite a contrast, is it not? So I think you can understand it looks no more like Christmas here than if you celebrated Christmas Season on the 4th of July. If you had the opportunity to travel over our macadam roads, planting and harvesting could be observed from the vehicles. The natives do not know what a storm window looks like, they make no preparation for a cold season, because there is none. They never need to worry about coal bills, and the general house repairing which must be done before (Old Man Winter) makes his seasonal rounds.
But even tho nature does not display the usual Christmas surrounding we can still have the genuine Christmas spirit of worship. On Christmas Eve all 5 of our post chapels held services. This meant all who were interested were free to attend the services, intended to celebrate the Birth of Him who came to bring peace to men of good will. I attended both the Protestant services and Catholic mass. The latter was an elaborate ceremony, which was held from midnight until 2:00 A.M.
Time, to me passes speedily on. I have been in the World’s greatest and best Army nearly 12 months. During all this time I have been able to do numerous duties. It is my policy to do them cheerfully, and to the best of my ability. At present I work in the personnel department. The work is very fascinating and educational. In conclusion I must say, “The people of the United States have an Army to be proud of”, Aloha – and God Bless you. From one of a few million,
Dick De Weerd
P.S. I would also like to mention that the sermonettes are of great spiritual help to the boys that read them in our unit. Your work has not been in vain. So, to all the ministers of Sioux Center: Greetings and compliments from the boys of Hq. Co. who read your messages. D.D.W.
Pfc. Dick De Weerd
Hq. Co. 24th Inf. Div.
APO 24, c.o. Postmaster
San Francisco, Calif.
Source: Sioux Center News Jan 7, 1943 p 6
Somewhere in the Pacific
APO 24, April 26, 1943
After beginning in overseas service for over a year I thought I’d write a short Autobiography about my military career. I was one of the fellows who made this world safe for democracy. What a crazy thought that was. I fought and fought to evade the draft board, but had to go anyway. I was put in Class A. The next time I want to be in Class B. “B” here when they go and “B” here when they come back. I remember when I registered. I went up to the desk and my groceryman was in charge. He said, “What’s your name?” So I said, “Young man, you know my name.” “What’s your name?”, he barked, so I told him. He said, “When did you first see the light of day?” and I said, “When I moved from one house to another.” He asked me how old I was so I told him 21 the first of June. He said the first of June you’ll be in Hawaii and that will be the last of May.
A veterinarian examined me. He asked me if I ever had measles, smallpox, and if I took fits. I said, “No, only if I stay in your office too long.” Then he said, “Can you see alright?” I said, “Sure, but I’ll be cockeyed tonight if I pass.”
The doctor said that he had examined 14,000 men and that I was the most perfect physical wreck that he had examined. Then he handed me a card – Class A.
Then I went to Des Moines and I guess they didn’t think that I’d live long. The first fellow wrote on my card “Flying Corps”. I went a little further and some guy said, “Look what the wind’s blowing in.” I said, “Wind, nothing! the draft’s doing it”. On the second morning they put these clothes on me. What an outfit! As soon as you are in it you think you can lick anyone. They have two sizes, too large and too small. The pants are too tight. I can’t sit down. The shoes are so big, I turned around three times and they didn’t move. And what a raincoat – it stained the rain. I passed the officer all dressed with a fancy belt and all that stuff. He said, calling after me, “Didn’t you notice what I have on?” I said, “Yes, what are you kicking about? Look what they gave me!”
If you were a delivery hand, they put you in the Medical Department. If you were a watchman, they made you Officer of the Day. I saw a guy with a wooden leg and asked him what he was doing in the army. He said, “I’m going to mash the potatoes”. Oh, it was nice – five below zero one morning and they called us for underwear inspection. You talk about scenery – red flannels, BVD’s, all kinds. The union suit I had on would fit Tony Galento. The lieutenant lined us all up and told me to stand up. I sai, “I’m standing but this underwear makes you think I’m sitting down”.
Three months later, we sailed for Hawaii, and marching down the pier, I had some bad luck. I had a Sergeant who stuttered and it took him so long to say “Halt” that 17 of us marched overboard. They pulled us out and the Captain came along and said, “Fall in! I said, “I’ve just been in”.
I was on the boat 7 days. Seasick all the time. Nothing going down, everything coming up. I leaned over the railing all the time. In the middle of the day, I was on one of my best leans, the Captain rushed up and said, “What company are you in?” I said, “I’m all by myself.” He asked me if the Brigadier was up yet, I said, “If I swallowed it, it’s up”.
Talk about dumb people! I said to one of the non-commissioned, “I guess we dropped anchor”. He said, “I knew they’d lose it, it’s been hanging out ever since we left San Francisco.” We had a lifeboat drill and when the boat was being lowered over the side of the ship, it spilled some of the men out of the boat into the water. The Lieutenant gave orders to pull the men out of the water by the ‘hair of their heads’. I was struggling with one man, when one fellow who was bald yelled, “Pull me out”. I said, “Go down and come back up the right way”.
Well, we landed in Hawaii and were immediately sent to the trenches. After three nights in the trenches, all the cannons started to roar, and the shells started to fall. I started shaking with Patriotism. I tried to hide behind a tree but there weren’t enough trees for all the officers. The Captain came around and said, “Five o’clock and we go over the top”. I said, “I’d like a furlough”. He said, “Have you no red blood in you?” I said, “Yes, but I don’t want to see any of it”. He said, “Where do you want to go?” I said, “Anywhere it’s warm” so he told me where to go. Five o’clock and we went over the top. 5000 Japs came at us, but they all looked at me as though I started the war. Our Captain yelled, “Fire at will”. But I didn’t know which one was Will. I guess the fellow behind me thought I was Will. He fired his gun and shot me in the excitement. On my way to the hospital, I asked a fellow where they were taking me, and he said, “You’re going to a Morgue”. “There’s some mistake, I’m not dead”, I said, and he yelled, “Lie down, do you want to make a fool of the doctor?”
Finally, a pretty nurse came in and - Oh! – That’s another story….
A lonely Soldier,
Dick De Weerd
Source: Sioux Center News May 13, 1943 p 8
May 6, 1943
Dear Ed: - For many years Hawaii has been known as the Paradise of the Pacific – the vacation goal of many travel lovers – Hawaii, during the past year has assumed new significance and importance in the eyes of all Americans as guardian of our West coast and scene of the opening act of our war with Japan.
Hawaii is, indeed, much more than just a beauty spot. These islands, discovered in 1778 by Captain James Cook, an English navigator, were ruled for many years by Hawaii’s own kings and queens until, in 1898, at the request of the Hawaiian government, America annexed the islands as United States territory. A territorial government was set up in 1900, with a governor appointed by the President, a legislative body, and a representative in Congress. Recently Representative Samuel Wilder King introduced a bill that would on passage make Hawaii our forty-ninth state (the Hawaiian people had voted two to one in favor of this motion).
Even in the early nineteenth century Hawaii was education-conscious. By 1832 eighty percent of the population was literate. By the next year school attendance was compulsory. In 1831 and 1834 two schools – one for teachers training, the other for instructing religious assistants – were founded. They also offered industrial training and were considered the first of this type to be established in what is now the United States. The University of Hawaii is at Honolulu. It boasts students from 33 states and 11 foreign countries.
Hawaii has been a profitable addition to the United States. Sugar is, in normal times, the leading industry, with pineapple-growing a close second. Almost 5000,000,000 cans of pineapple fruit and juice have been exported yearly. The coffee industry, too, is building up, as is silk, rice, tobacco, cotton, vanilla, etc., on a smaller scale. Of course these are pre-war standards.
Situated as the Islands are in the Warm Pacific, the climate is quite temperate. In Honolulu, according to the Weather Bureau’s report, it has never been hotter than 88 degrees or colder than 56. Swimming, surf riding, boating and fishing are all pleasant pastimes in the warm turquoise-colored waters surrounding Hawaii. There are many mountains in Hawaii, mostly volcanic; some active, some quiescent – Kilauea, for instance, is in continuous eruption. Its crater is nine miles in circumference, 1000 feet deep, and it is said to be the largest active volcano in the world. There are crater pits here, stalactites, lava trees, sulphur steam baths, pumic beds, and various other strange and interesting sights.
The islands are radiant with tropical flowers – the natives charming custom of hanging flower leis around the necks of incoming passengers is familiar to most all travelers…and there is a great variety of birds, especially in the uninhabited coral islands. In fact, the Westerly group, except Midway has been set aside by the Federal Government as the Hawaiian Islands Bird Reservation, which is considered the largest sanctuary in the world.
ALOHA to these tropic islands of ours until the welcome dawn of peace breaks through the chaos and havoc of war.
From one of the boys,
Dick De Weerd
Pvt. 1clp Dick De Weerd
Hq. Co., 24th Inf. Div.
APO 24, c.o. Postmaster
San Francisco, Calif.
Source: Sioux Center News May 27, 1943 p 6
Pfc. Dick Vander Hoef writes from Australia to thank the Business Girls for the Christmas package, cards and letters, etc. Dick has been in Hawaii for over a year. He left last spring for Australia where he has been stationed since last May. He and Dick De Weerd get to see each other frequently.
Source: Sioux Center News Jan. 20, 1944 p 2
Cpl. Dick De Weerd Writes from Somewhere in the South West Pacific Jungle
1 May, 1944
Dear Ed, Staff and Readers:
During the past few weeks I have received several of your papers. Even though it has been impossible for me to see and speak to my friends for 27 months, I still am able to keep posted in regards to current home-town activities. As your paper plainly reveals, most everything in Sioux County is progressing at a normal pace. As I look at the situation production is still keeping up at a maximum even though the countryside manhood is slowly and gradually diminishing.
Life in this half-lit, dense and deathly quiet (at times) underworld was at first a strange way of living to me. Now that a certain period of time has elapsed, I’m making an adjustment to it with considerable ease. I wasn’t frightened when we first arrived as some of the city boys were. The jungle does give us mid-western farm boys a queer and uneasy feeling. This mass of gloom and green darkness hides many strange and implacable mysterious happenings. One of them being pests and insects which combat against man. There are snakes and lizards as big as dogs, also strange many-legged, warm bodied, poisonous worms; rabbit sized, white toothed, bony red-eyed rats; yellow and red bellied spiders as large as your spread-out hand. Butterflies some as dark as shadows, others as beautiful as fairies, when they flutter in the dim green light it gives the eye a bewildered sight. At times it seemingly looks as if entire armies of insects, setting up a buzz and crawl among the foliage in such a manner that an onlooker would think even the stirring events of the world has put these little creatures into a battle of their own, against their own game, and even against man itself. I would at this time like to mention the names of several insects inhabiting the jungle, but censorship forbids.
Some time ago a group of my mates and myself went on a sight-seeing expedition. We were all tremendously impressed by the cleanliness of the native villages. Some villages contain a half-a-dozen grass-thatched houses, others several dozen. Most of them were raised from the ground to prevent creeping life from invading the premises. Rats like to loiter in native dwellings. The natives, especially the women, fear these huge rats. Nearly all of the native villages are situated on clearings either at the edge of the jungle or along the palm covered beaches. All the villages have their own gardens. Bananas, paw-paw, a variety of beans, seem to be the principal plants. Many homes contain pots and pans, which have been gathered from rubbish heaps left behind by white man. Before military forces entered this territory they used the fire from wood for the purpose of heat and light. Now, whenever they can obtain; by means of trading, some kerosene; they think very highly of this strange liquid which is used very sparingly. They cannot understand why a liquid which has the same characteristics as water, can produce a vigorous flame. As in all other villages, each has its own chief, usually a distinguished looking older man. They all seem modest and friendly. All natives salute the ‘Kanks’, whether Officer or otherwise. They don’t mind to have their photo taken, however a small reward or payment is expected; as a cigarette. All natives enjoy to smoke, the boys as well as the men, the girls as well as the women. To see a child get its milk from a cigarette-smoking mother is not an unusual sight. No infant is bottle fed. If it won’t suck from the breast it simply doesn’t survive. All small children go about their playing in the mud. The older ones wear three loin cloths, each being a different size. The women usually wear a heavy woven shirt of different shades and colors. Items as brassiers are unknown to these Island folk. Few of the natives can understand English. Rarely do you meet one which can speak it. If you should, the credit can be given to the early Australian Missions. The soldier gives a great deal of credit and tribute to the foreign missions amongst the natives. Nearly all the natives work under and for the Australian government, since these islands are or were at one time in the Australian mandatory. They do a great deal of construction work, main one being constructing grass huts from which the different units direct operations. The natives as a rule are not polygamous. They have a high standard of morality and family life. Time has shown that if they are well treated they can and will prove to be very helpful.
My letter is getting too lengthy and out of proportion, therefore a hasty ending seems in place.
Greetings and best wishes to all,
Dick De Weerd
Cpl. Dick De Weerd 37112359
Hq. Co., 24th Inf. Div.
APO 24, c/o Postmaster
San Francisco, Calif.
Source: Sioux Center News Apr. 27, 1944 p 8
Pfc. Dick De Weerd, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert De Weerd has been moving around a good deal of the time and has spent the past five months on an island near New Guinea, but his parents do not know which one. Dick left the states on June 7, 1942, and has an office job taking care of pay checks, supply lines and also the mail.
Source: Sioux Center News July 27, 1944 p 2
SIX LOCAL BOYS AND ARMY NURSE MEET IN NEW GUINEA
Took Picture of Group
The thrill that can only come to a stranger in a strange land, was experienced by six local soldier boys and Lt. Henrietta Eppink, army nurse, when they met recently in New Guinea. Henry Vonk, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Vonk, drives a jeep and according to his letter to his folks, he gathered up four more boys from this area, including Everett Franken, Clarence Mol, Dick De Weerd and Dick Vander Hoef and they climbed into Henry’s jeep and drove over to see Everett who seems to be stationed some distance away. Somewhere along the line they met with Lt. Henrietta Eppink who seems to have moved to New Guinea proper just recently also. She incidentally had finally succeeded in meeting with her brother-in-law, Lt. Neal Mol who is a flyer stationed in that area also.
Lt. Mol brought her some oranges and apples which apparently were quite a treat, and they had a very pleasant visit together. The Eppink family had thought Henrietta was on New Guinea for some time, but according to her recent letters, she must have been stationed a short distance from there, as she said she had moved by boat to her new location.
Source: Sioux Center News Sept. 21, 1944 p 1
They Met In New Guinea
Left to right: Dick De Weerd, Dick Vande Hoef, Clarence Mol, Everett Franken and Henry Vonk
These are the five local boys who met recently in New Guinea where all are stationed at present. They also met with Lt. Henrietta Eppink, army nurse who is now stationed there.
Source: Sioux Center News Sept 28, 1944 p 1
Cpl. Dick De Weerd of New Guinea describes reunion with local boys:
Sept. 1, 1944
Dear Ed and Friends:
On the 27th of August (Sunday afternoon) five hometown servicemen serving in the S.W.P. Area had a fascinating reunion. During the previous week, arrangements with one another were made to try and get that afternoon off. No unforeseen interruption seemed to take place. So, Pfc. Dick Vander Hoef, Cpl. Everett Franken, Cpl. Clarence J. Mol, Pvt. Henry Vonk and Cpl. Dick De Weerd met and had a pleasant time. As could be expected, we spoke mostly of pre-war days in Sioux Center. A close second in conversation were the bewitching occurrences we have had with the ‘sons-of-heaven’. With Everett being in the photo branch of the service, this permitted us to take a group picture. Three days followed, then each of us had in our possession the developed photos. We have gathered from various sources that 9 Sioux Center service personnel are within an area of 100 miles in diameter; one of these being a member of the Army Nurse Corps. At one of my former stations I was fortunate enough to pay Henrietta Eppink a few social calls. We had some enlivening conversations. I understand she recently has been transferred to this area. Mention at our short reunion was made of the interesting and fascinating articles which were still being published in the news. By this paper our knowledge of home town changes is kept in trim. When we have more time we will drop you another note. Thanks for the past services, we appreciate them all.
Yours in the service,
Cpl. Dick De Weerd
(Editor’s note: The picture he mentions was published in the News two weeks ago. Johanna Mol lending us her print.)
Source: Sioux Center News Oct. 12, 1944 p 8
Cpl. Dick De Weerd who came home last Thursday evening from overseas service gave a very interesting talk at the young peoples meeting of the Second Christian Reformed Church on Sunday evening.
Source: Sioux Center News Dec. 14, 1944 p 11
Cpl. Dick De Weerd arrived home last Thursday evening after spending 30 months in overseas service. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert De Weerd and this is his first furlough after being in the service for nearly three years. While overseas he spent some time in the Hawaiian Islands, Australia and New Guinea.
Source: Sioux County Capital Dec. 14, 1944 p 7
Cpl. Dick De Weerd left again on Monday morning to report to Jefferson Barracks, Mo. after spending an overseas furlough at the home of his parents.
Source: Sioux Center News Jan. 11, 1945 p 9
Cpl. Dick De Weerd Writes from Somewhere in the Philippines
March 19, 1945
Dear Editor and Friends:
Once more the Army has transported me to foreign soil midst the noises of preparations for some immediate or future battle.
After spending more than thirty months outside the continental limits of the good old U.S.A. I was among the few fortunate ones to be returned to the United States on temporary duty for a thirty day recuperation furlough. As you can well imagine I consider myself lucky being able to return to Sioux Center for a short length of time while so many of my comrades were not so fortunate, some never to return to those who were left behind. When I think along those lines my heart is filled with a deep measure of gratitude. It is my sincere wish that many other local boys in foreign service will in the immediate future be granted a month’s leave with next of kin. I enjoyed every moment of my time from December 8, 1944 to January 9, 1945, returning to St. Louis by car, bus and train, from that point to the west coast by steam-liner. After being processed at Angel Island I embarked on my sixth transport and headed for New Guinea, from there to the Philippines. The last hop was made by military aircraft form one island to another, this proved to be very interesting.
The jovial season leave will be a period in my life I will never forget. I considered it an infrequent treat for anyone to temporarily return home and be able to be the recipient of the binding and adhering influences of home and community environments. To ‘live’ with the family was a very emotional and dramatic incident, which helped me vividly rehabilitate many tender attachments family living implants in you while still a youngster. While in the Armed Forces this domineering force of congenial family ties seems to be covered by a wet blanket of alientment and maladjustment.
The rare blessed opportunity to attend several church services with your own people also filled me with a deeper gratitude and a fuller appreciation for the finer things of life. To worship in the Lord’s house with people of identical faith did wonders to the means of reclaiming Christian Reformed truths. To once more be able to walk up and down Sioux Center main street and see the Cop Joe going about his duties brought back former memories. I found several changes; didn’t expect so many to take place during my three years of absence. Store fronts and their interiors have changed. Additional buildings and houses were noticed at several locations. Change in proprietorship was evident on every street. Sioux Center is a progressive community.
Had the honor of meeting two other veterans, Cpl. Teddy Vander Berg, and Pfc. Henry De Groot, the latter was going about on crutches. The three of us had a reunion at Teddy’s home. It is my sincere hope and prayer that the day is close at hand when all of the fellas can gather for renewed associations and comradeship.
To eat from a table-clothed table and china wear filled with fresh and not dehydrated foods was a special daily treat; only an overseas soldier can understand what it is to be eating dehydrated foods for many days. In these parts where our unit is on a war of movement it is eat anyplace at most any-time with anything as long as you eat.
No time and place for formalities. To revive and stimulate acquaintances with my pre-war friends were some of my cherished memories. The folks of middle age or in the older bracket didn’t change much, but those adolescent youngsters have changed in appearance to such an extent that I was inclined to believe that my absence had been much longer than three years. When I left some were mere kids, now they stand out as grown-up men and ladies. I’m only referring to physical appearances, as for mental development you are the better judges. Truly, this leave made it possible for me to reclaim and recapture many important influences and enchanting pre-war relationships as living the life of a civilian. To put it in one word, it was like HEAVEN.
Even though the reception extended to me by the Sioux Center citizens was to be praised and it was sincerely accepted and appreciated by yours truly I still must inform you I left Sioux County with a mental scar of blemished bitterness. It shouldn’t have been so, but some emotional feelings become part of you on their own accord. Upon my return I have spoken to several comrades, who were also on leave at the time; they expressed the same sentiments. Therefore, I’m inclined to believe I express the views of other servicemen who have been in foreign service for any length of time. These sensitive feelings at times arouse panic disturbances in my thoughts. A certain portion of bitterness seems to have penetrated my process of thinking. I wasn’t aware of this until two-thirds of my leave was spent, then as the days passed this feeling became more acute. I am well aware this shouldn’t be so, but it has become part of me, as joy and happiness are part of a new birth and bereavement and sorrow part of death, so this bitterness has become part of my articulate memories. I made it a point to check, inquire and decipher some of those seemingly tall stories I have heard during my past thirty months overseas. You would be astonished to know, as to how much the soldier away from home knows; as to what is going on at their communities in reference to classification of 4-F’s and 2C deferments, and draft dodging. He is well aware of the young men of his own age who have managed to escape the military service for some time or are still managing to evade the draft. He knows the names of those who seemed to have the foresight to get married and entrenched in being “A Farmer or Important Worker”, so they could stay at home and sleep between white sheets at night. When we return these Worms have accumulated a fat bank roll and ride on the gravy train to retirement at an early age, while we in turn stumble to make difficult adjustments to make a decent living and claims for future security. History and statistics show that the post-war period after every war is an era of chaotic economic disturbances for all returning soldiers, and there are over 10,000,000 this time. Thanks to the foresightedness of Congress who introduced and passed the G. I. Bill of Rights, but this alone doesn’t solve the problem of reinstating ex-servicemen in community living. I feel bitter because I was one of them to be singled out to fight, and maybe die or suffer, not to mention seeing the horrors of war while others my age live the pleasant and peaceful role of overall and coverall workers. Many of you work long hours and complain, we work all hours and get SHOT at then are asked to take it as it comes and like it; we never can do the latter. I was under the impression that profiteering and black marketing was a common practice only in large cities and industrial centers, but to my astonishment found it in some county localities, as dealers in machinery and other essential items operating several rackets not in the advantage of anyone’s welfare, but so that their bankrolls are increased not by a hundred-fold but by a thousand-fold. If I were to answer the question: Has the World War II made serious inroads and inconveniences to the Sioux Center people? I would have to reply: No, in my estimation not one which could be classified as calling the people to put up with serious sacrifices, not even taxes or war bonds. I didn’t know that Mr. Peter Mouw, chairman of the War Loan Drives, had to go through such long pains and plans and write-ups and continued coaxing to the public so they would let loose some of that stacked up cash in order that the city and county quota could be filled for any particular drive. It seems as if folks, at least some of them, are more concerned about getting those almighty dollars stored away for postwar use than to get this war over with very soon and have the boys come back. This leave certainly has opened my eyes as to what the people back home are doing while fellas in our Division are getting their legs and limbs, some even their heads blown off. It was repeatedly brought to my attention only those who have immediate relatives in combat areas have the terrors and miseries of war brought within their doors, others give it little thought, they seemed to be more concerned about their ever- growing assets and live luxuriously while the combat soldier spends his youth and strength in this cruel business of bloody war. I must close now for this letter is taking up too much space in your columns.
If anyone reading these above paragraphs is inclined to disagree with me I would like to hear from the same. Maybe an explanation from a different angle would clarify the situation a little better. And in one of the future issues of the Sioux Center News, and if permitted, I would like to have an article published as to my opinion a square deal to returning servicemen.
From a G. I. who is helping to liberate the Philippine Islands,
Cpl. Dick De Weerd
Source: Sioux Center News Apr. 5, 1945 p 2
RETURNING TO CIVILIAN LIFE
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DICK DE WEERD
28 August, 1945
Philippine Islands
Dear Friends:
Due to the fact that shortly I will be leaving this command for the purpose of being de-mobilized and mustered out of the Armed Forces, I wish you would cease as of this date, sending your publication to my military address.
Either send it to my home or convert the remainder of the subscription to my brother Gerald who has recently entered the service.
In conclusion, I want to compliment the News Force for the task of printing such a marvelous home town paper during World War II: I’m sure all members of the service express similar sentiments. Be seeing you soon,
Dick De Weerd
Source: Sioux Center News Sept. 13, 1945 p 2
LOCAL SOLDIER SAYS DEMOBILIZATION IN THE PHILIPPINES FAR BEHIND SCHEDULE
Dick De Weerd submits the following article to inform local people of the situation on demobilization as he sees it:
I presume you citizens are better informed since the lifting of censorship; in reference to the rate of discharge of high-point army personnel located in the different Military Occupation Zones. However, I feel obligated to inform, especially the folks who are at this time awaiting the return of their husbands, sons and brothers; a few facts which have been brought to our attention within the last few days, these will be submitted herewith at this time.
Over 700 men, including yours truly, arrived at this Replacement Depot 46 days ago. From this station we were to board ships to bring us back to the country for which we labored, sweat and fought for during the past three or more years. All personnel in this group have from 80 to 100 points. Majority being veterans of several campaigns in New Guinea and the Philippines. One of our buddies, an Oklahoma Indian, is accredited for killing 37 Japs. Groups of returning soldiers, as explained in the above paragraph, who are placed in a camp specially constructed to facilitate the returning of troops to the U.S.A., they are in our opinion being unnecessarily delayed. It can be understood this creates resentment which brings the wrath of the ordinary soldier down on the army and will continue to do so in the post-war years. A decisive factor against military conscription.
We read in the papers that the battleship Missouri on which the Japanese signed the Peace Document was in an East Coast harbor for the inspection of civvilians; who in turn boarded the same with pliers and wrenches to obtain souvenirs. We ask: Why could not that large ship be made useful by shuttling troops; 2,000 or more on one trip; from the Pacific to the west coast, instead of going to the east coast for public inspection? Recently several large vessels were standing by on the west coast while undergoing preparation for a big navy parade. Practically every major vessel of the Pacific Fleet was standing by, putting on spit and polish for the coastal visitors. Some seeing only a glamour in war while looking at the tremendous destructive power these man-made instruments of war can produce. Home-weary soldiers cannot understand why the exhibit of these ships is more important than to have thousands of soldiers sit idly on several of these deserted islands? Is that the appreciation we receive for the three or four years of our flowering manhood we spent in the tropics? Haven’t we kept destructive war outside the continental limits of our great free land – America? Now that hostilities have ceased, we would appreciate some consideration in reference to going back to the land we consider our (home).
Now here is another horse, with still a different color. Two days ago restricted information reached the sensitive ears of the G.I.’s, that the army and navy were making preparations to convert nine of its liberty ships to transport in the immediate future Japanese prisoners of war back to Japan. Some vessels are estimated to carry two thousand POW, making some 18,000 Japs returning to Japan. Our resentment to this plan brings matters to a boiling point. First, they kill many of our fine young men, large cemeteries testify to that fact, the still living having experienced numerous close shaves. Second, it is now a known fact the Nips made frequent practices of crimes directly conflicting with the laws and customs of war. Now – to end a story of all stories; these same Japs are returning to their country before we return to ours. Where is justice? We consider this a case of mud-slinging – coming into our faces, of course. The morale problem is causing alarm, the suspense, plus the fact of the known unnecessary delay is nerve-breaking, especially to many of the married servicemen.
We realize shipping is “inadequate”, all of us cannot return at one time. However, it is also a fact that many of the several thousands of U.S. ships now on the seas are not being pressed into the service of returning troops for demobilization, to the fullest extent possible.
During the last month less than 10,000 returnees left Leyte for the Mainland, still on the morning this island was invaded more than that number hit the beaches within 6 hours. Similar large scale operations in as short a length of time have occurred on Luzon, Okinawa, and various other beachheads in the Pacific.
It is the transportation system that is snafu. We have plenty of ships. I have seen as many as one thousand at one time in Hollandia Bay located in New Guinea. The jump-off point for the invasion of the Philippines. Records show that at one time nearly 2,000 troop carrying vessels were anchored in Leyte Gulf. The other day I counted only a small dozen in the same gulf, most of these were going to all other points but the U.S.A. We have personnel in our group who have to their credit 40 months continuous overseas service. During this time many have aged 3 times the normal rate due to exposure in the tropics and conflict in battle. It is our contention that these men be given every consideration possible; when returning home for recuperation and a deserving honorable discharge. We are part of a citizens army, now that the job is finished we wish to resume our deserving citizenship as a useful civilian not as dead weight in a useless army.
This letter is not only written for my personal interest, because I will be leaving this depot in the near future. Primarily this information was submitted for the benefit of all soldiers who are to return within the next few years. By taking proper action at this time on this disrupted situation, the future returning servicemen could be spared a lot of grief and misery.
We recommend you take advantage of your privilege as a free-speaking American. Write your Congressmen and others who hold a public office; requesting immediate action which will bring back the men who fought, and won a victorious war.
The following information in reference to the Liberty ships is also submitted for your information:
5 Nov. 1945
It has been learned, authoritatively, that the conversion program for Liberty ships, has resulted in nine ships being converted for transportation for POWs, while only one converted ship will be used for American troops. Although volunteers are not being used for this work, Army personnel is remodeling the ships.
Present plans call for the conversion of five Liberty ships to be converted by the Army, four Liberties by the Navy. The ships which are to be converted by the Army came from the Port of Manila, and one from Batanga. One ship that the Army is converting came from Manila. Ships coming from Manila are shipping under the authorization of Base X, and AFWESPAC, controlling the movement of troops in this area.
One ship to be converted by the Army is the Chatten Lyons, and will be used as a POW ship, according to orders issued for the conversion. The Horace Lurton will be converted for the use of transporting American troops. The other ships to be converted by the Army for POW ships are: Ed. Everett, M. Stewart. R.L. Stevenson, and the Frank Sprague.
The Navy will convert four POW ships. Henry Kirby, Stephen M. White, Keith Palmer, and the William H. Allen.
The dates scheduled for completion of the ships are: Chatten Lyons, indefinite; Horace Lurton, indefinite; Ed. Everett, 6 November; M. Stewart, 10 November; R. L Stevenson, 14 Nov.; and the Frank Sprague, indefinite.
The dates for the completion of the conversion of the navy ships are all indefinite.
Ed. Everett and Chatten Lyons will carry 2000 POWs each; Stewart, Stevenson, and Sprague will carry 1500 POWs each.
At this date, 4 November, the W. L. Gable is awaiting Navy orders – a ship which has been converted to carrying POWs.
The foregoing article was prepared for print in the Homeward Herald, published at the 28th Replacement Depot, but the permission to print the article was denied the editor, Cpl. R.W. Young, by officers in charge. The foundation for the article was taken directly from the Daily port Status Report of the Office of the Base Port Command, under Base K – covering the period 1200 hours 3 November to 1200 hours 4 November. It was suggested by the Major in charge that some item be printed about the progress being made in the conversion of the Horace Lurton, but nothing must be printed about the conversion of ships for POWs.
(P.S. – Homeward Herald is the daily camp paper.)
(P.S. – This is the truth, may the people at home be given the facts.)
One of the home-town boys,
Dick De Weerd
Source: Sioux Center News Nov. 22, 1945 p 4
Servicemen Discharged
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Dick De Weerd, Sioux Center
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Source: Sioux Center News Dec. 13, 1945 p 5
Iowa, U. S., WWII Bonus Case Files 1947-1954, Claim No. 98344
Dick De Weerd was born June 1, 1920 in Rock Valley, Iowa, and was living in Sioux Center, Iowa when he registered with the Selective Service Board. He entered active duty in the Army on Jan. 31, 1942 at Fort Des Moines, Iowa and served with the 24th Infantry Division. Dick departed for foreign service on June 7, 1942, returned on Dec. 1, 1944, left again on Jan. 26, 1945 and returned back to the States on Nov. 26, 1945. He was honorably discharged on Dec. 7, 1945. His application for bonus pay was filed on May 20, 1949, for which he received a $500 bonus.
Source: ancestry.com
