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World War II Veterans

Military Police Tech. 5 with Expert Infantry Badge with MM w/M1 Rifle

Haven told that just as he finished basic training and he was in San Diego with all supplies ready to ship to the Pacific Theater, the war ended with Japan .   He had to return his boots, clothes, etc and was shipped by train to New York where he was re-issued supplies for European Theater.   He told me one of the hardest things he has felt was watching the Statue of Liberty fading into the distance as the ship headed eastward, and their ship had to wait at the Cliffs of Dover before a pilot familiar with the harbor came out to take the ship in.  Haven traveled around Europe with a Captain that took a liking to him and had him ride shotgun as they went “sightseeing” around Germany , etc.   He got to Hitler's Eagles Nest in Austria, among other places.
 

Enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1941 and served as a company commander in the infantry in the Pacific theater, where he was badly wounded by gunfire twice during beach landings, the last time on Sipan.

Colonel Bosshard also served in Korea, and was on a special Marine board during the Vietnam War.

His awards included two Purple Hearts and the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat Valor.

Colonel Bosshard is buried in Arlington National Cemetery - Section 66 Site 5789
 

Enlisted in September 1944, at the age of 18.  Merlin served in the 102 Infantry Division on the German front.  During one battle more than 1,000 German soldiers surrendered to Merlin.  He radioed for help, but was told to "handle it", which he did.  The Germans disarmed leaving piles of rifles, pistols and knives.  Merlin found a pearl handled Lugar in the pile of pistol which he mailed home as a souvenir (it never arrived).

Merlin was discharged in August 1946.