~ THE LOVE STORY ~
At a family holiday party at my niece Karen Casey's home one Christmas Eve. Someone mention to me that I should write a story some day on the Internet about how my wife Ellen and I met. You are most likely sitting there , saying to yourself, ( who cares ?
*
Well, that's my exact words were to her, when she suggested it. This person was my niece Maryellen, she found my experience quit interesting, and thought many other's may as well.
*
Back in the year of 1955, I was very young at 18. My future did not look very bright at the time, because I came from a broken family, I was one out of eight children, I never went to high school. So if poor grammar, and very bad spelling bothers you , don't go any further.
I was living with my brother Jack and his wife and their four children at the time. One morning, My brother Jack came in to my bedroom to wake me so I could go out to look for work. Needless to say, I was unemployed at the time.
I told my brother I had joined the Army yesterday. At first he was mad and very up set at me, but once he thought about it, he then said it was ok, and wished me his best.
*
I was out every day looking for work, Months were passing by like if they were weeks, And when I did find a job, I would get laid off a week or two later. I had three jobs in a couple of months and lost them all. One day I just felt I was becoming a burden to my brother Jack and his wife, I started to feel very uncomfortably living there, I knew my brother could not afford me living with them. I would find myself wide awake all night thinking what can I do. I wanted out of this kind of life.
I went in to Boston and joined the Army. I felt that was the best thing for me to do. I would not have to depend on any one. I was really going to be on my own. Now it's time for me to grow up, and do something with my life.
I could not have a better place to be then being in the U.S. Army for teaching me how to become adult.
*
I was sent to Fort - Dix New Jersey, for my basic training. I was there for eight weeks -. We got a pass for the last weekend before we were to be shipped out, I was going to Berlin Germany. I was the only one who went to Berlin from my out-fit. I guess they were looking for a cook. ( I will explain later). I went on pass with two of my buddies who lived in New York and had a great time.
*
We had to be back on Monday at 0500 - hours = 05.00 AM to turn in our equipment to the quarter master before shipping out. The buses were waiting to be loaded to take us to the air port, We were late getting back from New York that morning, we got to the gate at the base, but could not find a cab to take us to our company, the taxi company know we were shipping out that morning there was no reason to have any taxi`s there
*
My two friends started to walk back to our company, it was a long walk across the base. I stayed back waiting for a cab to come by or get a ride from someone coming in with a car, that never happen, and I started to get nervous and ran all the way back to my company.
*
The buses were all loaded and waiting for me. The Lieutenant told me to get on the bus and I will pay for all the equipment I did not turned in to the quarter master, There was not much left of my equipment, and my personal items any ways, all the guys took what they needed, LOL.
*
But it was not funny back then. oh by the way, I did not pay one cent for any equipment. I told the quarter master that they lost my duffle bag.
*
When I arriving in Berlin, I was taken to this infantry mess hall, it was so large when it`s compared to a small basic training company I was in, I was a cook during my last four weeks of training, That`s what my orders said. After they gave me the tour of the mess hall, I asked how many eat here. I was told four company at a time. I was ok with a small company`s kitchen, LOL
*
But I did not want any thing to do with this monster of a mess hall. I then mention to the mess sergeant that I was not a cook, I only worked in the company`s small kitchen to cook for the R.O.T.C. for four weeks doing pots and pans, I said there is a mistake here some where, Because I am not a cook. All worked out great for me, I was put in to the heavy weapons platoon where I belong.. How lucky I was to have been a cook , if I wasn`t I would not have been sent to Berlin;
*
Well, that's my exact words were to her, when she suggested it. This person was my niece Maryellen, she found my experience quit interesting, and thought many other's may as well.
*
Back in the year of 1955, I was very young at 18. My future did not look very bright at the time, because I came from a broken family, I was one out of eight children, I never went to high school. So if poor grammar, and very bad spelling bothers you , don't go any further.
I was living with my brother Jack and his wife and their four children at the time. One morning, My brother Jack came in to my bedroom to wake me so I could go out to look for work. Needless to say, I was unemployed at the time.
I told my brother I had joined the Army yesterday. At first he was mad and very up set at me, but once he thought about it, he then said it was ok, and wished me his best.
*
I was out every day looking for work, Months were passing by like if they were weeks, And when I did find a job, I would get laid off a week or two later. I had three jobs in a couple of months and lost them all. One day I just felt I was becoming a burden to my brother Jack and his wife, I started to feel very uncomfortably living there, I knew my brother could not afford me living with them. I would find myself wide awake all night thinking what can I do. I wanted out of this kind of life.
I went in to Boston and joined the Army. I felt that was the best thing for me to do. I would not have to depend on any one. I was really going to be on my own. Now it's time for me to grow up, and do something with my life.
I could not have a better place to be then being in the U.S. Army for teaching me how to become adult.
*
I was sent to Fort - Dix New Jersey, for my basic training. I was there for eight weeks -. We got a pass for the last weekend before we were to be shipped out, I was going to Berlin Germany. I was the only one who went to Berlin from my out-fit. I guess they were looking for a cook. ( I will explain later). I went on pass with two of my buddies who lived in New York and had a great time.
*
We had to be back on Monday at 0500 - hours = 05.00 AM to turn in our equipment to the quarter master before shipping out. The buses were waiting to be loaded to take us to the air port, We were late getting back from New York that morning, we got to the gate at the base, but could not find a cab to take us to our company, the taxi company know we were shipping out that morning there was no reason to have any taxi`s there
*
My two friends started to walk back to our company, it was a long walk across the base. I stayed back waiting for a cab to come by or get a ride from someone coming in with a car, that never happen, and I started to get nervous and ran all the way back to my company.
*
The buses were all loaded and waiting for me. The Lieutenant told me to get on the bus and I will pay for all the equipment I did not turned in to the quarter master, There was not much left of my equipment, and my personal items any ways, all the guys took what they needed, LOL.
*
But it was not funny back then. oh by the way, I did not pay one cent for any equipment. I told the quarter master that they lost my duffle bag.
*
When I arriving in Berlin, I was taken to this infantry mess hall, it was so large when it`s compared to a small basic training company I was in, I was a cook during my last four weeks of training, That`s what my orders said. After they gave me the tour of the mess hall, I asked how many eat here. I was told four company at a time. I was ok with a small company`s kitchen, LOL
*
But I did not want any thing to do with this monster of a mess hall. I then mention to the mess sergeant that I was not a cook, I only worked in the company`s small kitchen to cook for the R.O.T.C. for four weeks doing pots and pans, I said there is a mistake here some where, Because I am not a cook. All worked out great for me, I was put in to the heavy weapons platoon where I belong.. How lucky I was to have been a cook , if I wasn`t I would not have been sent to Berlin;
~ TEMPELHOF AIRPORT. THE MOST FANOUS AIRPORT FOR THE
BERLIN AIR-LIFT BACK IN 1943 ~ 1949. During the war
Six years later, I arrived in Tempelhof Berlin in 1955, I was put in to Fox company 2nd Bat 6th Inf. Heavy Weapons Platoon.as a 60-Mator Tub Gunner. Now I was happy again, Fox company was having a Christmas party at the local restaurant called the White Horse, there were many buses waiting out side of the compound to take the soldier`s and their dates. I was not in Berlin more then two weeks, I did not have a date to bring, I went with a few guys from Fox company.
*
Sergeant Keefe came on the bus with two ladies, one was his girlfriend and the other lady was Ellen Stohr . The story was that sergeant Keefe`s girlfriend was out side talking with Ellen while she was waiting for him, When the sergeant came out he told every one to get on the buses and his girlfriend push Ellen on the bus with her. After they were on the bus, his girl asked him if it was alright if Ellen could come with them.
( Needless to say he said it was ok )
*
Sergeant Keefe and his two ladies were sitting at the back of the bus looking forward facing me, I was sitting facing back words, my eyes were making contact with Ellen`s eyes many times during the bus ride, I would smile at Ellen and she would turn her head to the side as throw she didn`t notice me.
*
Once at the restaurant , and half way though the night, I had enough drinks in me to have the courage to go
over to the sergeants table to ask Ellen to dance. After four or five NO`S I got the message that she did not want any thing to do with me. I went back to my table crying. ( Just Joking )
*
I continued to stare at Ellen, I would make some kind of motion to her to dance, and I did get a smile from her, The
party was almost over when sergeant Keefe came over to my table to ask me to join them at his table. I was introduced to his girl friend and to Ellen. The German custom is always a friendly hand shake when greeting some one. When I shook hands with Ellen I would not let go for a long time, I never felt any resistance from her when holding her hand.. WOW I tamed the tiger...
*
Sergeant Keefe and his girl friend went up to dance leaving us alone, Ellen didn`t speak any English, I didn`t speak German.. but we did start to get a long ok, we did get to dance one or two dances before the party was over. At the end of the night Ellen said to her girlfriend she had to go to the ladies room. I waited for her and waited for her for a long time. I then ask the waitress to check on her. she came out and said no one was in the ladies room.
looked all over the restaurant and could not find her.. she was gone.
And all the buses were also gone. I had a long walk back
BERLIN AIR-LIFT BACK IN 1943 ~ 1949. During the war
Six years later, I arrived in Tempelhof Berlin in 1955, I was put in to Fox company 2nd Bat 6th Inf. Heavy Weapons Platoon.as a 60-Mator Tub Gunner. Now I was happy again, Fox company was having a Christmas party at the local restaurant called the White Horse, there were many buses waiting out side of the compound to take the soldier`s and their dates. I was not in Berlin more then two weeks, I did not have a date to bring, I went with a few guys from Fox company.
*
Sergeant Keefe came on the bus with two ladies, one was his girlfriend and the other lady was Ellen Stohr . The story was that sergeant Keefe`s girlfriend was out side talking with Ellen while she was waiting for him, When the sergeant came out he told every one to get on the buses and his girlfriend push Ellen on the bus with her. After they were on the bus, his girl asked him if it was alright if Ellen could come with them.
( Needless to say he said it was ok )
*
Sergeant Keefe and his two ladies were sitting at the back of the bus looking forward facing me, I was sitting facing back words, my eyes were making contact with Ellen`s eyes many times during the bus ride, I would smile at Ellen and she would turn her head to the side as throw she didn`t notice me.
*
Once at the restaurant , and half way though the night, I had enough drinks in me to have the courage to go
over to the sergeants table to ask Ellen to dance. After four or five NO`S I got the message that she did not want any thing to do with me. I went back to my table crying. ( Just Joking )
*
I continued to stare at Ellen, I would make some kind of motion to her to dance, and I did get a smile from her, The
party was almost over when sergeant Keefe came over to my table to ask me to join them at his table. I was introduced to his girl friend and to Ellen. The German custom is always a friendly hand shake when greeting some one. When I shook hands with Ellen I would not let go for a long time, I never felt any resistance from her when holding her hand.. WOW I tamed the tiger...
*
Sergeant Keefe and his girl friend went up to dance leaving us alone, Ellen didn`t speak any English, I didn`t speak German.. but we did start to get a long ok, we did get to dance one or two dances before the party was over. At the end of the night Ellen said to her girlfriend she had to go to the ladies room. I waited for her and waited for her for a long time. I then ask the waitress to check on her. she came out and said no one was in the ladies room.
looked all over the restaurant and could not find her.. she was gone.
And all the buses were also gone. I had a long walk back
HERE WE ARE SGT KEEFE AND HIS GIRL,
WITH ELLEN AND ME AT THE FOX COMPANY`S CHRISTMAS PARTY in 1955
Next day I was put on alert at the company, alert is when 50% of the company can be on pass and the other 50% is on alert in the compound. in case they are needed. So when you are on alert, you can go to the movies which is out of the compound, the sergeant who is on duty would march the group over to the movie house in a formation.
*
I guess the sergeant`s girl friend must have mention this to Ellen because while I was in line to enter the movies I felt a tap on my arm, when I turn around I was kinder shocked to see Ellen standing there. I though I would not ever see her again wow.........
*
It turn out that the sergeant`s girl friend did tell Ellen at work the next day. she also told Ellen she might see me
standing out side the movies if I was going that night. Ellen took the chance and walk over to the movies and saw me in line. she told me she could not believe I was standing there. I got out of line to talk to Ellen, she did not
know what I was saying, I was talking fast because I had to go in to the movies.
*
The sergeant is now yelling at me to go in the movies. I was trying to explain to Ellen that I can`t go with
her, because I was on alert. I tried to make Ellen understand I would meet her tomorrow in front of the movie hall ( columbia ).Ellen could only say is ( ya ya ya), not understanding anything I said.
*
I asked her to come in to the movies, she would not go in, I said for the last time , I will meet you here tomorrow ok Ellen said ya ok .Tomorrow came and I went over to the columbia movie house hoping Ellen would be there. It was raining out very hard all night. I waited for Ellen for two hours just walking in the rain. I went over to the corner bar to have a beer, the song came on that Johnny ray did ( Just walking in the rain ) and all I did as ....LOL
*
The next day the sergeant came to me and asked me where was I last night, he told me that he was with his girl friend and Ellen waiting for me at the white house restaurant. I felt bad, and explain to the sergeant I was
waiting for two hours at the columbia movie house for Ellen. The sergeant told me that Ellen assumed that I was asking her to meet me at the white house restaurant were we first met each other, and where all the gi`s go with there girlfriends.
*
Again I ask the sergeant if he was going to see his girl friend that night, and if he would tell his girl friend to tell
Ellen at work tomorrow that I will meet her at the white horse restaurant that night. I did not know if Ellen got the message from her girl friend or not, I went to the white horse restaurant and saw Ellen was there, she was very nervous and scared being there, the gi`s were trying to buy her drinks, when I came in she ran over to me and held my arm so tight, I thought something happen to her.
*
Now I have a situation here that I had to figure out , and do it quickly. we both did not understand each other and we had lots to say and do The restaurant was busy and loud. I didn`t want to stay there with Ellen, because she was so uncomfortable, and I did not want to give her the wrong idea of me just looking for a one night stand.
*
We left the restaurant and went back to Ellen`s neighborhood where there was a nice small cafe were we
sat all night having a few drinks and dance. We did not know what we were saying to each other. but we did know it was going to be alright for both of us, you just can tell if it is a good match. I knew it at the end of the first night.
*
After a few weeks had passed by, we were doing excellent on the language and comunicating to each other much better, we had so much fun breaking down the barrier that kept us apart some what. and a few sign language
that we used we were getting along great.
*
Ellen was always afraid of the gi`s, she had to walk by the army compound every day going and coming from work. she didn`t like what she saw and heard from some of them. There were times the GI`s would have their heads out the window`s yelling (hello fraulien ) you want to come to America with me.? Meet me here tonight..
*
When Ellen would come home from work at night, she would always walk around the compound to get home, she
did not go by the compound when the gi`s are coming out on pass.
*
later on I found out why Ellen said she was going to the ladies room and then disappeared on me .she thought I was looking for that one night stand I spoke of earlier. she was scared to go home with me because I have had one to many drinks that night and she said what she said to get away from me and go back home with the sergeant.
*
*We dated for one year, we knew we were going to get married, love was there for both of us, and respect
for each other was also there, we did not need years to find that out. I knew with in the first month, I was going to marry this girl and told her so. It was really love at first sight.
*
I would go and visit Ellen every day when I could, she had a large room on a second floor facing the street, I had a certain whistle call for her that she recognized, and would look out the window and buzz me in, boy those were the days my friend...lol I loved it . you see her landlord lived there also and would not allow her to have male friends in her room, remember she was only 18 years old. it wasn`t long after we had our own apartment,*
WITH ELLEN AND ME AT THE FOX COMPANY`S CHRISTMAS PARTY in 1955
Next day I was put on alert at the company, alert is when 50% of the company can be on pass and the other 50% is on alert in the compound. in case they are needed. So when you are on alert, you can go to the movies which is out of the compound, the sergeant who is on duty would march the group over to the movie house in a formation.
*
I guess the sergeant`s girl friend must have mention this to Ellen because while I was in line to enter the movies I felt a tap on my arm, when I turn around I was kinder shocked to see Ellen standing there. I though I would not ever see her again wow.........
*
It turn out that the sergeant`s girl friend did tell Ellen at work the next day. she also told Ellen she might see me
standing out side the movies if I was going that night. Ellen took the chance and walk over to the movies and saw me in line. she told me she could not believe I was standing there. I got out of line to talk to Ellen, she did not
know what I was saying, I was talking fast because I had to go in to the movies.
*
The sergeant is now yelling at me to go in the movies. I was trying to explain to Ellen that I can`t go with
her, because I was on alert. I tried to make Ellen understand I would meet her tomorrow in front of the movie hall ( columbia ).Ellen could only say is ( ya ya ya), not understanding anything I said.
*
I asked her to come in to the movies, she would not go in, I said for the last time , I will meet you here tomorrow ok Ellen said ya ok .Tomorrow came and I went over to the columbia movie house hoping Ellen would be there. It was raining out very hard all night. I waited for Ellen for two hours just walking in the rain. I went over to the corner bar to have a beer, the song came on that Johnny ray did ( Just walking in the rain ) and all I did as ....LOL
*
The next day the sergeant came to me and asked me where was I last night, he told me that he was with his girl friend and Ellen waiting for me at the white house restaurant. I felt bad, and explain to the sergeant I was
waiting for two hours at the columbia movie house for Ellen. The sergeant told me that Ellen assumed that I was asking her to meet me at the white house restaurant were we first met each other, and where all the gi`s go with there girlfriends.
*
Again I ask the sergeant if he was going to see his girl friend that night, and if he would tell his girl friend to tell
Ellen at work tomorrow that I will meet her at the white horse restaurant that night. I did not know if Ellen got the message from her girl friend or not, I went to the white horse restaurant and saw Ellen was there, she was very nervous and scared being there, the gi`s were trying to buy her drinks, when I came in she ran over to me and held my arm so tight, I thought something happen to her.
*
Now I have a situation here that I had to figure out , and do it quickly. we both did not understand each other and we had lots to say and do The restaurant was busy and loud. I didn`t want to stay there with Ellen, because she was so uncomfortable, and I did not want to give her the wrong idea of me just looking for a one night stand.
*
We left the restaurant and went back to Ellen`s neighborhood where there was a nice small cafe were we
sat all night having a few drinks and dance. We did not know what we were saying to each other. but we did know it was going to be alright for both of us, you just can tell if it is a good match. I knew it at the end of the first night.
*
After a few weeks had passed by, we were doing excellent on the language and comunicating to each other much better, we had so much fun breaking down the barrier that kept us apart some what. and a few sign language
that we used we were getting along great.
*
Ellen was always afraid of the gi`s, she had to walk by the army compound every day going and coming from work. she didn`t like what she saw and heard from some of them. There were times the GI`s would have their heads out the window`s yelling (hello fraulien ) you want to come to America with me.? Meet me here tonight..
*
When Ellen would come home from work at night, she would always walk around the compound to get home, she
did not go by the compound when the gi`s are coming out on pass.
*
later on I found out why Ellen said she was going to the ladies room and then disappeared on me .she thought I was looking for that one night stand I spoke of earlier. she was scared to go home with me because I have had one to many drinks that night and she said what she said to get away from me and go back home with the sergeant.
*
*We dated for one year, we knew we were going to get married, love was there for both of us, and respect
for each other was also there, we did not need years to find that out. I knew with in the first month, I was going to marry this girl and told her so. It was really love at first sight.
*
I would go and visit Ellen every day when I could, she had a large room on a second floor facing the street, I had a certain whistle call for her that she recognized, and would look out the window and buzz me in, boy those were the days my friend...lol I loved it . you see her landlord lived there also and would not allow her to have male friends in her room, remember she was only 18 years old. it wasn`t long after we had our own apartment,*
ELLEN RIDEING HER BIKE FROM THE TEMPELHOF AREA TO VISIT ME IN THE GRUENEWALD U.S.TRAINING AREA IT
WAS A ONE HOUR BIKE RIDE TO AND ONE HOUR GOING BACK HOME
~ I wanted to marry Ellen ~
WAS A ONE HOUR BIKE RIDE TO AND ONE HOUR GOING BACK HOME
~ I wanted to marry Ellen ~
~ I REMEMBER THIS PHOTO WELL, WE WERE TALKING ABOUT MARRAGE ~
It wasn`t no easy task, I went to the captain of Fox company to ask for permission to get married. When your in the service your life belongs to the government. Your are the property of U.S.A.. and need their permission to marry. I was told that I had to first get permission from my parents seeing that I am under 21. and get the ok from the state of mass seeing that I am what you call a state ward until I was 21.. and then I need to get the uncle Sam`s ok; Photo of the chapel we got married in 1958 for the thrid time
*
I quickly I sent off a letter asking my Father for permission to marry. It took weeks and then months and still have not heard from my Father. I sent another letter asking him to send something ( yes or no). A month or two had pass by then I got a letter from my Father telling me he could not give me permission, by the divorce courts he only had the guidance of me. He told me that my Mother was the one who can do that because she had the custody of me by the divorce courts of the state of mass.
*
So I quickly sent off a letter to my Mother who I have not seen for ten years, I really could not remember when I saw her or talk to her. so now I am getting nervous .
*
Again months went by and did not hear from my Mother, I wrote to her again and again and got no answer. I wrote to my Brother Jack and Brother Paul to ask if they could get in touch with our Mother and if they would tell her to send me the permission to marry. I waited for many months and did not hear from any one, It felt that my whole family had disappeared from earth.
*
I sent one more letter to my Mother not asking for her permission, because I don`t want her permission any more, I told her I was going to marry Ellen by the justice of the peace, and I will come back and marry her again if I had to so I could bring her home to America. and I made it very clear to her, and said .
*
"What you have done was made it more costly and difficult financially for me. I hope you can live with this with every thing else you have to live with"... Needless to say I was up-set.
*
So we did get married by the Justice of the peace the first time on December 23 1956 on my Fathers birthday. the marriage was not recognized by the army or by my religion. there for I will not receive any allowance from the government. and will have to come back to Berlin and re-marry Ellen to bring her home.
*
I quickly I sent off a letter asking my Father for permission to marry. It took weeks and then months and still have not heard from my Father. I sent another letter asking him to send something ( yes or no). A month or two had pass by then I got a letter from my Father telling me he could not give me permission, by the divorce courts he only had the guidance of me. He told me that my Mother was the one who can do that because she had the custody of me by the divorce courts of the state of mass.
*
So I quickly sent off a letter to my Mother who I have not seen for ten years, I really could not remember when I saw her or talk to her. so now I am getting nervous .
*
Again months went by and did not hear from my Mother, I wrote to her again and again and got no answer. I wrote to my Brother Jack and Brother Paul to ask if they could get in touch with our Mother and if they would tell her to send me the permission to marry. I waited for many months and did not hear from any one, It felt that my whole family had disappeared from earth.
*
I sent one more letter to my Mother not asking for her permission, because I don`t want her permission any more, I told her I was going to marry Ellen by the justice of the peace, and I will come back and marry her again if I had to so I could bring her home to America. and I made it very clear to her, and said .
*
"What you have done was made it more costly and difficult financially for me. I hope you can live with this with every thing else you have to live with"... Needless to say I was up-set.
*
So we did get married by the Justice of the peace the first time on December 23 1956 on my Fathers birthday. the marriage was not recognized by the army or by my religion. there for I will not receive any allowance from the government. and will have to come back to Berlin and re-marry Ellen to bring her home.
Ellen and I had a great and wonderful courtship, we went to see many of the beautiful garden and parks they have around Berlin. We really enjoyed each other. Ellen would ride her bike out to the gruenwald park training area in Berlin,
Ellen would come out there riding her bike more then one hour to bring me some nice cheese and sausage, I was eating better then the officers in my company. Photo is up above showing Ellen on her bike
*
Then one day 1957, I received the permission to get married from my Mother. We decided to wait and get married again on December 23 , 1957 for the second time and it was legally as far as the government was concerned, and will be getting a pay allowance, and will be living off post with Ellen.
*
Ellen gave birth to a baby girl on New Years day 01/01/1958, and in July 1958 we got married for the third time
because of my religion and faith, and had our daughter baptize in the company`s chapel. photo above.
*
Then all hell broke loose, they decided to put up the wall to divide the city. My barracks was not that far from the east sector`s border. At first they only had barbed wire to divide the sector, then the barricades came, and then the towers were put up, now it is very hard and dangerous to try to cross to the other side.
*
Ellen`s grandparents are cut off from her now, and also her sister Gisela. Ellen wanted me to try to go over to the other
side to see her grand parent because they are very old and she don`t think they will last much longer. Ellen ask me to go with her to the east sector to see her sister and grandparents before we leave for America, I told her I could not do that, the east sector is off limits to all U.S personal. I told her I will ask my company commander if I can go..
*
Months went by and the subject came up again about sneaking over to the other side the Russian sector. Ellen was told by her younger sister Lore that it is easy to get across by train now, Ellen told me that her sister Lore dose it every
week to visit their older sister who live over there. Ellen was told things have slowed down , and they are not checking the people going across on the train,
*
So I decided to try it for Ellen, I told Ellen if I get caught, the Russians can get me for spying, and my government would throw the book at me because it is off limits to all U.S Personal , and put me away for a long time. But I went over with her.
I dressed up in some old German clothing and sat at the window pretending I was asleep with my ticket sticking out of my pocket for the conductor could get at it., I did not shave for three days because I was on a week vacation pass. I think by not shaving did help to look more like a German, American`s are known to be clean shaving, and short hair cuts. Coming back was a little scary but we did get through ok, but I had to go in to the bath room quick to change my under- ware. (
Needless to say what for ) LOL
*
What made me so nervous on this adventure , is that her sister Gisela`s husband was a East German police officer . and this is the guy I am sneaking over to visit.
*
Time is getting near for me to start to get ready to go back to the states, my service duty is almost over now, I am getting nervous again about how am I going to pay for Ellen and Joan to come to America with me. I don`t have enough time to save any money, What the hell am I going to do? I went to try to re-enlist , I was told I did not have enough time to do the paper work , but I can re-enlist once I am back in the states. So that was my ace in the hole as the old saying goes.
*
Even though I only had three months left in the service, I did not slack off in any of my duties squad leader. I even started to work harder and went to Hohenfeilds with the company to train with live ammo for six weeks. I could have stay back in Berlin when they were gone, and have it easy for my self. because I was a short timer as they say around here. A short
timer is a soldier who only has three month left in the service..
*
I have eight weeks left and I choose to go with the company for live training, and I will only have two weeks left when the company get back to Berlin. that is more time then I need to clear the post to go back to the states. I needed this last
chance to show what I can do with the 60-Martor tub gun. Maybe there is a chance I can earn my sergeant stripes..
*
The first week of training, we were visited by the big brass from Berlin Command Headquarters . while we were in the
field, the word got to us telling us that they are at our command out post down below us some where.
The General wanted to send a command or two to the 60-Mator which was me and my squad.
*
The platoon sergeant told me to handle the mortar and do the firing. I was thinking while waiting for the first command,
I could not have wished for any thing better then this to show off what I know about this weapon. and what I can do with it also. When your a squad leader you don`t get the chance to show off, my job as a leader is to train others. this was the answer to my prayers. now I hope I don`t make any errors or any mistakes.
Ellen would come out there riding her bike more then one hour to bring me some nice cheese and sausage, I was eating better then the officers in my company. Photo is up above showing Ellen on her bike
*
Then one day 1957, I received the permission to get married from my Mother. We decided to wait and get married again on December 23 , 1957 for the second time and it was legally as far as the government was concerned, and will be getting a pay allowance, and will be living off post with Ellen.
*
Ellen gave birth to a baby girl on New Years day 01/01/1958, and in July 1958 we got married for the third time
because of my religion and faith, and had our daughter baptize in the company`s chapel. photo above.
*
Then all hell broke loose, they decided to put up the wall to divide the city. My barracks was not that far from the east sector`s border. At first they only had barbed wire to divide the sector, then the barricades came, and then the towers were put up, now it is very hard and dangerous to try to cross to the other side.
*
Ellen`s grandparents are cut off from her now, and also her sister Gisela. Ellen wanted me to try to go over to the other
side to see her grand parent because they are very old and she don`t think they will last much longer. Ellen ask me to go with her to the east sector to see her sister and grandparents before we leave for America, I told her I could not do that, the east sector is off limits to all U.S personal. I told her I will ask my company commander if I can go..
*
Months went by and the subject came up again about sneaking over to the other side the Russian sector. Ellen was told by her younger sister Lore that it is easy to get across by train now, Ellen told me that her sister Lore dose it every
week to visit their older sister who live over there. Ellen was told things have slowed down , and they are not checking the people going across on the train,
*
So I decided to try it for Ellen, I told Ellen if I get caught, the Russians can get me for spying, and my government would throw the book at me because it is off limits to all U.S Personal , and put me away for a long time. But I went over with her.
I dressed up in some old German clothing and sat at the window pretending I was asleep with my ticket sticking out of my pocket for the conductor could get at it., I did not shave for three days because I was on a week vacation pass. I think by not shaving did help to look more like a German, American`s are known to be clean shaving, and short hair cuts. Coming back was a little scary but we did get through ok, but I had to go in to the bath room quick to change my under- ware. (
Needless to say what for ) LOL
*
What made me so nervous on this adventure , is that her sister Gisela`s husband was a East German police officer . and this is the guy I am sneaking over to visit.
*
Time is getting near for me to start to get ready to go back to the states, my service duty is almost over now, I am getting nervous again about how am I going to pay for Ellen and Joan to come to America with me. I don`t have enough time to save any money, What the hell am I going to do? I went to try to re-enlist , I was told I did not have enough time to do the paper work , but I can re-enlist once I am back in the states. So that was my ace in the hole as the old saying goes.
*
Even though I only had three months left in the service, I did not slack off in any of my duties squad leader. I even started to work harder and went to Hohenfeilds with the company to train with live ammo for six weeks. I could have stay back in Berlin when they were gone, and have it easy for my self. because I was a short timer as they say around here. A short
timer is a soldier who only has three month left in the service..
*
I have eight weeks left and I choose to go with the company for live training, and I will only have two weeks left when the company get back to Berlin. that is more time then I need to clear the post to go back to the states. I needed this last
chance to show what I can do with the 60-Martor tub gun. Maybe there is a chance I can earn my sergeant stripes..
*
The first week of training, we were visited by the big brass from Berlin Command Headquarters . while we were in the
field, the word got to us telling us that they are at our command out post down below us some where.
The General wanted to send a command or two to the 60-Mator which was me and my squad.
*
The platoon sergeant told me to handle the mortar and do the firing. I was thinking while waiting for the first command,
I could not have wished for any thing better then this to show off what I know about this weapon. and what I can do with it also. When your a squad leader you don`t get the chance to show off, my job as a leader is to train others. this was the answer to my prayers. now I hope I don`t make any errors or any mistakes.
~ HERE IS WHAT HAPPEN ~
The first command came to us and it was to fire three shot on the yellow tank that is out in the field. We are trained to fire three shot on a given target, first shot is for range, second shot is for any corrections needed, the third shot is to hit the target in this case is the yellow tank. I fire the first shot and hit the tank, The next command came to fire three shots on the red tank that is also in the field, Again I fire first shot and again I hit the target, they sent one more comment to fire on the green tank in the field. We all looked at each other and was wondering if they are nuts, that tank was so far out in the field we needed field glasses to see it, I zero in on it and found it was about the limit the mortar can do. I fire the first shot and hit the tank...WOW. the sergeant said ti was a miss, and gave me some adjustment to zero in on it again . well my gunner and I did see it was hit, but I pretended that I was making his adjustments and fire the second shot at the same old settings and he yelled out to us it`s a hit.
I never told any one that I did not follow orders by pretending making adjustment.
A call came up to the sergeant to send down the gunner who did the firing to the command area. I went down as happy as I could ever be, when my company`s commander asked me if I was the gunner who did that awesome firing display, i was so proud when I said yes sir I am and four others up on the hill,. All the brass , one by one came over and shook my hand,
That was the most proud training moment in all my living days in the service...Even becoming Sgt.
he next day at mornings formation I was called to the front of the fromation and was given my sergeant stripes.I was told that this is un-heard off some one getting sergeant stripes who only has seven weeks left in the army.I was called to report to the captain office. The captain shook my hand and said a job well done sergeant Casey.The captain also told me that I made him feel so proud standing in the fields with me at his side in front of all that brass.
*
The captain sent me back to Berlin that afternoon to be with my family and to get every thing in order for Ellen and Joan to go to
America with me. Going to Hohenfields did pay off for me and my family.
*
Last year I was in Hohenfields for six weeks, It was the first time away from Ellen for any length of time, I wrote to Ellen every day even it only said Hello I love you in English, or in German ( Hallo Ich Lieber Dich );
*
I carried a german dictioary in my pocket at all times, I still have it here in front of me, it is the same one I used.And Ellen has all the letters that I sent to her in a shoe box also in front of me.
*
The captain sent me back to Berlin that afternoon to be with my family and to get every thing in order for Ellen and Joan to go to
America with me. Going to Hohenfields did pay off for me and my family.
*
Last year I was in Hohenfields for six weeks, It was the first time away from Ellen for any length of time, I wrote to Ellen every day even it only said Hello I love you in English, or in German ( Hallo Ich Lieber Dich );
*
I carried a german dictioary in my pocket at all times, I still have it here in front of me, it is the same one I used.And Ellen has all the letters that I sent to her in a shoe box also in front of me.
~ GOING HOME TO THE STATES ~
~ JOAN AND ELLEN HELPING ME PACK MY DUFFLE BAG TO LEAVE FOR THE STATES ~
~ ANY OTHER TIME THIS WOULD BE A VERY HAPPY DAY, BUT NOT THIS DAY BECAUSE I AM LEAVING ELLEN BEHIND ~
*
It was time for me to leave for the states. This is the real hard part leaving Ellen and Joan here in Berlin I worried so much and tried to make Ellen to understand that she will be coming to America soon and I will be there at New York waiting for
her. I knew she did understand me when I did leave.
*
Ellen had all the papers that she will need, every thing was in order for her, the us army will be there a few days before she leaves to pack all what she wants to bring with her. U.S. .Army will pick her up at her door to bring her and Joan to the army duty train to take them to Bremerhaven.
*
It took three weeks for me to muster out of the army when I got to Fort Div, there was some mix up at the dock when I arrived
in Fort Hamilton New York. They asked if any one had family or some thing coming from Germany, I said I have, and told them my wife and daughter, I was put to the side from all the others, later when they ask me what cabin number were my family was in, I told them there not on this ship, they are coming from Germany in a few weeks from now, they then put me back with the first group,
*
Well now I am being sent to Fort Dix to muster out of the army. there were at lease 200 men there getting out of the service.
every morning the would call 20 name to be process out of the army. all 200 men are gone and I am they only one standing there, and I said to the sergeant who has been calling off the names every morning NOW WHAT ?
His response was I DON`T KNOW.
*
What happen was they pulled out my orders from the group going to Fort Dix to muster out because I said I had family coming. and they never put my orders back in the first group again when they put me back . I had no money left , and I have to find my way back to Fort Hamilton were my orders are and I was told I can muster out there. when I was telling the sergeant that I have no money and no way to get to Fort Hamilton.
*
This army truck driver came in to the office to say he was leaving the post. the sergeant took one look at him and said I thought you left hours ago. The driver said ya but my truck broke down with a broken gear . The sergeant looked at me and said to me, guess where he is going? I looked at the driver and ask him if he was on his way to Fort Hamilton? and if I could ride with him . All he said I will love the company. It is funny how some things fall right in to place
Below a photo of the ship called Alexandra that Ellen & Joan Come to America on
*
It was time for me to leave for the states. This is the real hard part leaving Ellen and Joan here in Berlin I worried so much and tried to make Ellen to understand that she will be coming to America soon and I will be there at New York waiting for
her. I knew she did understand me when I did leave.
*
Ellen had all the papers that she will need, every thing was in order for her, the us army will be there a few days before she leaves to pack all what she wants to bring with her. U.S. .Army will pick her up at her door to bring her and Joan to the army duty train to take them to Bremerhaven.
*
It took three weeks for me to muster out of the army when I got to Fort Div, there was some mix up at the dock when I arrived
in Fort Hamilton New York. They asked if any one had family or some thing coming from Germany, I said I have, and told them my wife and daughter, I was put to the side from all the others, later when they ask me what cabin number were my family was in, I told them there not on this ship, they are coming from Germany in a few weeks from now, they then put me back with the first group,
*
Well now I am being sent to Fort Dix to muster out of the army. there were at lease 200 men there getting out of the service.
every morning the would call 20 name to be process out of the army. all 200 men are gone and I am they only one standing there, and I said to the sergeant who has been calling off the names every morning NOW WHAT ?
His response was I DON`T KNOW.
*
What happen was they pulled out my orders from the group going to Fort Dix to muster out because I said I had family coming. and they never put my orders back in the first group again when they put me back . I had no money left , and I have to find my way back to Fort Hamilton were my orders are and I was told I can muster out there. when I was telling the sergeant that I have no money and no way to get to Fort Hamilton.
*
This army truck driver came in to the office to say he was leaving the post. the sergeant took one look at him and said I thought you left hours ago. The driver said ya but my truck broke down with a broken gear . The sergeant looked at me and said to me, guess where he is going? I looked at the driver and ask him if he was on his way to Fort Hamilton? and if I could ride with him . All he said I will love the company. It is funny how some things fall right in to place
Below a photo of the ship called Alexandra that Ellen & Joan Come to America on
*
Ellen and Joan coming to America, I made arrangements for Ellen and Joan to come to America one month later because I had to report to Fort Dix to muster out of the service, and that would be at lease two or three weeks. I had no one or place I could send my family to
while I am held up at Fort Dix, So it was better if they came one month after me and I will be out of the army and hoping I I will find apartment and a job before they arrived in New York.
*
I did find apartment and furnished it with used furniture. It look great to me. I went grocery shopping and filled the ice box.......... LOL
Now I have to get to New York tomorrow to pick up Ellen and Joan. I had no money and no way of getting there. My sister Elaine told her husband that I needed a ride to New York to pick up my wife and Daughter he came over to my apartment to tell me he well drive me to New york., so off we went the next day.
*
When we arrived in New York, We found out that the ship was there one day early, because there was some kind of
illness on the ship, so they speed up the ship to arrive one day early. Ellen as not aware of this and was looking for me on the dock. some one explain to her that the ship got in one day early. and they have to stay on the ship untill the next day.the next day was here now and we do see each other and waving our hands. When we got home to my apartment we found it was broken in to They ate some of my food I had for Ellen and Joan, most of my beer was gone, and the apartment was a miss. and I was so proud what I had a complished
by fixing the place up, It sure was a big let down. the next day I had a job working at the local super market. and I stayed there for 26 years and I became the store manager in South Boston supreme markets. We have three children , Joan, Irene & Robert Jr. ten grand children, and five great grand children.
while I am held up at Fort Dix, So it was better if they came one month after me and I will be out of the army and hoping I I will find apartment and a job before they arrived in New York.
*
I did find apartment and furnished it with used furniture. It look great to me. I went grocery shopping and filled the ice box.......... LOL
Now I have to get to New York tomorrow to pick up Ellen and Joan. I had no money and no way of getting there. My sister Elaine told her husband that I needed a ride to New York to pick up my wife and Daughter he came over to my apartment to tell me he well drive me to New york., so off we went the next day.
*
When we arrived in New York, We found out that the ship was there one day early, because there was some kind of
illness on the ship, so they speed up the ship to arrive one day early. Ellen as not aware of this and was looking for me on the dock. some one explain to her that the ship got in one day early. and they have to stay on the ship untill the next day.the next day was here now and we do see each other and waving our hands. When we got home to my apartment we found it was broken in to They ate some of my food I had for Ellen and Joan, most of my beer was gone, and the apartment was a miss. and I was so proud what I had a complished
by fixing the place up, It sure was a big let down. the next day I had a job working at the local super market. and I stayed there for 26 years and I became the store manager in South Boston supreme markets. We have three children , Joan, Irene & Robert Jr. ten grand children, and five great grand children.
THE SHOE BOX OF MONEY
A man and woman had been married for more than 60 years. They had shared everything. They had talked about everything. They had kept no secrets from each other except that the little old woman had a shoe box in the top of her closet that she had cautioned her husband never to open or ask her about.
For all of these years, he had never thought about the box, but one day the little old woman got very sick and the doctor said she would not recover in trying to sort out their affairs, the little old man took down the shoe box and took it to his wife's bedside. She
agreed that it was time that he should know what was in the box. When he opened it, he found two crocheted dolls and a stack of money totaling $95,000.
He asked her about the contents When we were to be married,' she said, ' my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to never argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you, I should just keep quiet and crochet a doll.'
The little old man was so moved; he had to fight back tears. Only two Precious dolls were in the box. She had only been angry with him two Times in all those years of living and loving. He almost burst with Happiness.
'Honey,' he said,
'that explains the dolls, but what about all of this money? Where did it come from?'
Oh,' she said, 'that's the money I made from selling the dolls, and there are two left
A man and woman had been married for more than 60 years. They had shared everything. They had talked about everything. They had kept no secrets from each other except that the little old woman had a shoe box in the top of her closet that she had cautioned her husband never to open or ask her about.
For all of these years, he had never thought about the box, but one day the little old woman got very sick and the doctor said she would not recover in trying to sort out their affairs, the little old man took down the shoe box and took it to his wife's bedside. She
agreed that it was time that he should know what was in the box. When he opened it, he found two crocheted dolls and a stack of money totaling $95,000.
He asked her about the contents When we were to be married,' she said, ' my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to never argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you, I should just keep quiet and crochet a doll.'
The little old man was so moved; he had to fight back tears. Only two Precious dolls were in the box. She had only been angry with him two Times in all those years of living and loving. He almost burst with Happiness.
'Honey,' he said,
'that explains the dolls, but what about all of this money? Where did it come from?'
Oh,' she said, 'that's the money I made from selling the dolls, and there are two left
VETERANS' DAY 2009 Ocilla, Irwin County, Georgia
Two Photo below are showing a brick printed with our names being added with the other veteran`s who served in
Berlin Germany
Berlin Germany
~ A THANK YOU MESSAGE ~
By Bob Casey
Hello Reinhard, Boy oh Boy, I am truly speechless sitting here alone, I am writing to you because you are the one who got all this
in motion. And I wanted to personally thank you for your kindness and friendship. My dear friend, today I grow two inches taller from being so proud of what has happen to me by some of the nice people of the American Legion Post100 in Ocilla, Georgia.
This is a day when I should not have been alone, if I only knew what was ahead of me, and knew what was going to be presented I
would have not been alone. I have been proud many times in my 72 years, now it`s 77 years.in 2014, The first time was when I went in to the United States Army, and again when I married Ellen, and again when my Children, and Grandchildren and Great Grand Children were born.
Those times were great because they were expected and was prepared for the proud event. Now to be recognized by my fellow veteran's and the American Legion Post 100, gave me the feeling of a great accomplishment. What happen to me was all un-rehearse, all what you have shown about this ceremony on your web site was continuous excitement for me, because I did not know what to expect, I broke down a few times while looking, and reading the story and the feedbacks, and could not believe something like this could ever happen to me, a boy at six years old who lived in foster home's after foster home's until I was ten years old, and who called the State of Massachusetts his Mommy & Daddy until I was 21- years old because I was
known as a state ward child.
I never received a proper education, because of my street smarts, and common sense. I have ccomplished a great deal in my life time. Reinhard, to have something like this happen to me is going to be a big part of my life and memories from here on out. And to have a brick with my wife Ellen's name on it with mine is extra special to me and to be added with the many great man and woman at the Ocilla Veteran's Memorial is totally a great HONOR. I must say THANK YOU to Buddy Green, and all the folks at the American Legion Post 100 in Ocilla, Georgia.
I would also like to thank all of the town's people, and visitors that came to see this beautiful ceremony that they had put together for Veteran's day of 2009. May God Bless America, and watch over the veteran's on the front lines everywhere. I always make time at night just before going to bed, to get down on my old knee's and say a pray or two for all the men & woman in our armed forces, to bring them home soon. I will also remember those who have fallen by saying a special remembrance prayer. What I have seen on my TV lately that they are proud in what they do, I thank them dearly every night for that, and for keeping America free. Thank you for Everything! My Best Regards, SGT. Bob Casey & Ellen, Berlin 1955-1958
~ A THANK YOU MESSAGE ~
By Bob Casey
Hello Reinhard, Boy oh Boy, I am truly speechless sitting here alone, I am writing to you because you are the one who got all this
in motion. And I wanted to personally thank you for your kindness and friendship. My dear friend, today I grow two inches taller from being so proud of what has happen to me by some of the nice people of the American Legion Post100 in Ocilla, Georgia.
This is a day when I should not have been alone, if I only knew what was ahead of me, and knew what was going to be presented I
would have not been alone. I have been proud many times in my 72 years, now it`s 77 years.in 2014, The first time was when I went in to the United States Army, and again when I married Ellen, and again when my Children, and Grandchildren and Great Grand Children were born.
Those times were great because they were expected and was prepared for the proud event. Now to be recognized by my fellow veteran's and the American Legion Post 100, gave me the feeling of a great accomplishment. What happen to me was all un-rehearse, all what you have shown about this ceremony on your web site was continuous excitement for me, because I did not know what to expect, I broke down a few times while looking, and reading the story and the feedbacks, and could not believe something like this could ever happen to me, a boy at six years old who lived in foster home's after foster home's until I was ten years old, and who called the State of Massachusetts his Mommy & Daddy until I was 21- years old because I was
known as a state ward child.
I never received a proper education, because of my street smarts, and common sense. I have ccomplished a great deal in my life time. Reinhard, to have something like this happen to me is going to be a big part of my life and memories from here on out. And to have a brick with my wife Ellen's name on it with mine is extra special to me and to be added with the many great man and woman at the Ocilla Veteran's Memorial is totally a great HONOR. I must say THANK YOU to Buddy Green, and all the folks at the American Legion Post 100 in Ocilla, Georgia.
I would also like to thank all of the town's people, and visitors that came to see this beautiful ceremony that they had put together for Veteran's day of 2009. May God Bless America, and watch over the veteran's on the front lines everywhere. I always make time at night just before going to bed, to get down on my old knee's and say a pray or two for all the men & woman in our armed forces, to bring them home soon. I will also remember those who have fallen by saying a special remembrance prayer. What I have seen on my TV lately that they are proud in what they do, I thank them dearly every night for that, and for keeping America free. Thank you for Everything! My Best Regards, SGT. Bob Casey & Ellen, Berlin 1955-1958
THE BERLIN WALL IN THE EARLY STAGES IN 1956 WHEN I WAS THERE
PHOTO BELOW
PHOTO BELOW
~ I GOT THOUGH THE IRON CURTAIN FOR THE LOVE OF MY WIFE ~
TO VISIT HER FAMILY BEFORE LEAVING FOR THE STATES.
What a life I had, I have no complaints, I am a very lucky man to live a life like mine.
Thank You Ellen
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TO VISIT HER FAMILY BEFORE LEAVING FOR THE STATES.
What a life I had, I have no complaints, I am a very lucky man to live a life like mine.
Thank You Ellen
Return to Home page