​WASHINGTON— The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced today U.S. Army Air Forces Tech. Sgt. Charles G. Ruble, 20, of Parker City, Indiana, killed during World War II, was accounted for May 31, 2019.
 
In September 1944, Ruble was a member of the 99th Troop Carrier Squadron, 441st Troop Carrier Group, serving as an aerial engineer aboard a C-47A aircraft, nicknamed the Celia L. On September 17, 1944, the Celia L, which operated out of U.S. Army Air Forces Station 490, Langar, Nottinghamshire, England, participated in Operation MARKET GARDEN, the Allied invasion of the German-occupied Netherlands. The aircraft was carrying a crew of five and transporting 10 paratroopers from the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment to a drop-zone near Groesbeek, Netherlands. Anti-aircraft fire struck the plane’s wing and ignited its gas tanks. The paratroopers successfully exited the plane, as did two of the crewmembers. The pilot crash landed the plane several hundred yards inside the German border. Three crewmembers survived, but two, including Ruble, could not be accounted for and were believed to have been killed in the crash.
 
In April 1946, members of the 606th Quartermaster Graves Registration Company recovered eight sets of remains from isolated burials near Zyfflich, Germany, close to the Netherlands border. One set of remains, designated X-2565 Neuville, was buried about 500 yards from a downed C-47 aircraft in a grave marked with an uninscribed wooden cross. U.S. authorities interred X-2565 at what is today the Ardennes American Cemetery in Belgium after they had been declared unidentifiable.
 
After thorough research and analysis, historians from DPAA determined that Ruble was a strong candidate for association with X-2565. In June 2018, X-2565 was disinterred and the remains were sent to the DPAA laboratory at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, for analysis.
 
To identify Ruble’s remains, scientists from DPAA used dental and anthropological analysis, as well as circumstantial and material evidence. Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis.
 
DPAA is grateful to the American Battle Monuments Commission and to the U.S. Army Regional Mortuary-Europe/Africa for their partnership in this mission.
 
Of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II, more than 400,000 died during the war. Currently there are 72,635 service members still unaccounted for from World War II with approximately 30,000 assessed as possibly recoverable. Ruble’s name is recorded on the Walls of the Missing at the Netherlands American Cemetery, an American Battle Monuments Commission site in Margraten, Netherlands, along with the others missing from WWII. Although interred as an "unknown", his grave was meticulously cared for over the past 70 years by the American Battle Monuments Commission. A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for.
 
For family information, call the Army Service Casualty Office at (800) 892-2490.
 
Ruble will be buried March 2, 2020 at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
 
For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for Americans who went missing while serving our country, visit the DPAA website at www.dpaa.mil, find us on social media at www.facebook.com/dodpaa or call (703) 699-1420/1169.

Ruble’s personnel profile can be viewed Here.

ANGOLA — At its 100th birthday celebration Wednesday, the Angola American Legion got a name.

Post No. 31, chartered in October 1920 after being initially formed in 1919 by 40 World War I veterans, is now officially known as the Billy Crouse American Legion.

Marine Cpl. William H. Crouse IV, 22, and his bomb-sniffing dog, Cane, were killed Dec. 21, 2010, while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. Assigned to 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Crouse was in his first six weeks of his first tour of duty. He lived his childhood days in Angola.

His mother, Nancy Siders of Fort Wayne, has kept his memory alive and in the process, bolsters area soldiers.

“I want you to know how much the veterans mean to me,” Siders said Wednesday evening during the Legion event. “You guys are the thread of society.”

Siders has two other sons, one who served in the U.S. Navy, a daughter and five grandchildren. She said she hopes they continue to properly honor those who give their all for their country.

In naming the post after Crouse, said Indiana Legion’s State Commander Allen Connelly, LaGrange, the Angola post continues to look toward the future.

“It’s a new century and these are the people that we have to attract,” Connelly said.

In its 100 years, Post No. 31 has marked times of youth and vibrancy. Notably, said Connelly, it swelled to around 1,100 members after World War II, presumably because young veterans were seeking degrees at Tri-State College.

Angola Legion Commander Jim Penick said the post “still strives to maintain high standards of service.” In the final moments of Wednesday’s celebration, Penick officially dedicated the post to Crouse “and to all those who have died in service of our country.”

Crouse lived in Angola as a child before moving to South Carolina and eventually joining the Marines. He was the 161st Marine killed in Afghanistan in 2010.

“I’ve tried to use my voice for a catalyst for help and healing,” said Siders. “I have not walked in your boots but I have given and shared in your sacrifice.”

​​Referring to the Bible’s book of James, Nancy posed the question, “What is faith without deed?”

Every soldier’s, every veteran’s commitment shows the extreme faith and the extreme actions of one dedicated to the country and fellow men, said Siders.

“It’s everything to me,” she said. “Every day, I learn something from a veteran.”

In particular she thanked Russ Bauer and the Patriot Guard Riders. Though she still suffers sadness, she said Bauer showed her how to keep moving.
​
“Do not fear what someone else thinks,” she said. She encouraged those gathered Wednesday to continue to act on their good intentions. She said the Legion is there to provide a place for them to be with others like themselves and to just be themselves.

It is a place for “hope, healing, laughter, a beer now and then, and refuge in the storm,” said Siders.

Connelly said the Legion continues to be proactive at a national level. It is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization. Nationally, the American Legion was founded in 1919 on four pillars: veterans affairs and rehabilitation, national security, Americanism and children and youth.

To view this article on the original source, Click Here.

MOROCCO — Honoring its World War II veterans who still live in the community, the Morocco American Legion Post 146 celebrated its 100th anniversary Nov. 16 with a brief ceremony and a light dinner.

“We wanted to do something to celebrate 100 years as a post, while also recognizing our World War II veterans,” said Morocco American Legion Commander Ron Hoaks Jr., “These are the guys who passed the torch to us and made this legion what it is today.”

Being recognized for their service to the Legion were WW II vets Victor Carlson, Warren “Bud” Johnson, Gordan White, William Miller, and Ed Camblin.

The William Chizum Post 146 in Morocco was chartered on Oct. 24, 1919.

100 Years of Community Service

The American Legion is celebrating 100 years since its establishment by an act of Congress. The American Legion is the largest wartime veterans service organization, with nearly 2 million members and 12,700 posts worldwide.

In 1919, the American Legion was chartered by Congress as a patriotic veterans organization. The American Legion’s efforts in the 1920s resulted in the creation of the U.S. Veterans Bureau, the forerunner of Veterans Affairs that we know today. Today, the American Legion is involved in many aspects of your community. It lobbies for veterans, sponsors baseball leagues, Boy Scouts and an annual summer camp for civics education in 49 states.
 
Notable Events

1919 March 15-17: Americans who fought in World War I convene in Paris for the first American Legion caucus.

• Sept. 16: Congress charters the American Legion.

• Nov. 10-12: First Legion convention convenes in Minneapolis. A resolution is passed in support of Boy Scouts of America.

1921: Efforts result in the creation of the U.S. Veterans Bureau, forerunner of the Veterans Affairs.

1923: The first “Flag Code” is drafted during a Legion conference in Washington. Congress adopts the code in 1942.

1925: The American Legion baseball program is created.

1935: The first American Legion Boys State convenes in Springfield, Ill., to help boys gain an understanding of government and civics.

1938: The National High School Oratorical Contest is held to promote a greater understanding of the U.S. Constitution.

1944: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs into law the original GI Bill. The bill is considered the Legion’s single greatest legislative achievement.

1966: The Legion urges a full accounting of all POWs and troops missing in action.
1969: The National Emergency Fund is established.

1972: The Legion starts a Halloween safety program for children.
​
1982: The Legion presents a$1 million check to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund for construction of the wall in Washington.
To view this article on the original source, Click Here.

​INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - In a room packed with friends and family, a special group of accomplished veterans were inducted into the Indiana Military Hall of Fame at the Garrison at Fort Benjamin Harrison on Friday. This honor is extended to only a select few based on military achievements and community service.

CW4(ret.) Forrest Myers told FOX59 he is humbled by the recognition. Myers served the United States for nearly three decades.

"I'm an old country boy that grew up on a farm in Crawford County, Indiana," Myers said. "And now, I'm being inducted into this. That means quite a bit to me."

Myers has every right to boast, he is a decorated veteran, serving in both WWII and Vietnam.

"I had two Air Medals of Valor," Myers said.

Myers joined a distinguished group of veterans, like retired Airman Jay Collars.

"It's overwhelming," Collars said. "This is unbelievable that someone like myself could be awarded such an honor."

​Collars also has numerous service medals to his name, such as the Bronze Star with Valor, the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Meritorious Service Medal.

"The fact that I could serve the nation the way I wanted to serve it," Collars said. "I'm really basically a patriotic individual, and I believe in what the country stands for. I believe in what the country does for the world."

Eight of the 16 recipients of hall of fame honors have passed. The inductees have decades of service between them. They have also learned plenty of lessons along the way.

"My advice to young people is in all the chaos that you find and listen to of the political discourse, still remember we live in the greatest country in the world," David Eberly said. Eberly is a retired Airman.

As Veterans Day approaches, those with spoke with encourage people to have a conversation with those who served our country.
​
"Talk to a veteran and learn about the trials and the service that he and she performed for this great country," Eberly urged.

​To view this story on the original source, Click Here.

​Editor's note: American Legion members and Sons of The American Legion members receive special discounts through their membership. Learn more about the deals offered at our special discounts page. https://www.legion.org/benefits
The following are some discounts for veterans and servicemembers for restaurants, retail outlets and recreational opportunities for Veterans Day. While these have been verified, check your local franchise to be sure that they are honoring the discounts and for more information.

RESTAURANTS

54th Street Family Grill
www.54thstreetgrill.com/
Veterans and active-duty military eat free (up to $12) on Veterans Day.

Another Broken Egg Café
https://anotherbrokenegg.com/
Veterans Day Breakfast for Heroes. We're inviting all veterans, active and retired military service members to enjoy a FREE Patriot French Toast Combo and coffee on Monday, Nov. 11.

Applebee’s
www.applebees.com/en/veterans-day-free-meals
We are proud to serve those who serve. Over the past 11 years, Applebee’s restaurants nationwide have served free meals to veterans and active-duty military on Veterans Day to honor them for their courage and sacrifice. We invite you to join us this Veterans Day, Nov. 11, to continue our tradition.

Bagger Dave’s
www.baggerdaves.com/promotions/
Active, non-active, reservists, retired personnel and first responders with proof of military identification receive a free great American cheeseburger and fries on Nov. 11.

Bandana’s Bar-B-Q
www.bandanasbbq.com/
Veterans and active-duty military eat free (up to a $10 value) on Veterans day. Must show valid military ID or proof of service.

BJ’s Restaurant Brewhouse
www.bjsrestaurants.com/VeteransDay
All current and former military can enjoy a free entrée up to $14.95 and a free Dr. Pepper beverage on Monday, Nov. 11.

Black Angus Steakhouse
www.blackangus.com/contact/#terms
The Veterans Day plate is offered at $9.99 for an 8 oz. Certified Angus Beef® Top Sirloin with mashed potatoes, fresh broccoli with garlic butter and a non-alcoholic beverage. Only valid on Monday 11/11/19. All military personnel who produce a valid military ID or proof of military service are eligible to receive this special offer. One offer valid per veteran or active-duty military personnel.

Bob Evans
www.bobevans.com/veterans-day
Veterans and active-duty military, your meal is on us. Join us Monday, Nov. 11, and we’ll treat you to one of your favorites: country biscuit breakfast, brioche French toast, the mini sampler, stack of hotcakes, soup & salad combo, or dinner bell plates.

Burnt Wood Tavern
www.burntwoodtavern.com/
All Veterans and active military eat free on Veterans Day.

California Pizza Kitchen
www.cpk.com/
This Veterans Day, California Pizza Kitchen offers its gratitude to our nation’s veterans and active U.S. military members with an invitation to enjoy a complimentary meal from CPK’s Veterans Day menu at all participating California Pizza Kitchen locations nationwide. The special menu will include a choice of a complimentary pizza, pasta or full size salad and beverage for active military members or veterans with proof of service. Participating guests will also receive a card to redeem for a buy one, get one free** pizza, pasta, or salad during a return visit November 12-20.

Cattleman’s Steakhouse
www.cattlemens.com/cattlemens-honoring-veterans-with-sirloin-steak-dinner/
In honor of Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Cattlemens Steakhouse is inviting all active, inactive and retired military personal to enjoy a complimentary 8 oz. Sirloin Steak dinner. It’s Cattlemens way of proudly serving those who have served our country. All Cattlemens locations open at 4 p.m. every day. Call your local Cattlemens for details.

CentrAarchy Restaurants (California Dreaming, Carolina Roadhouse, Chophouse ’47, Chophouse New Orleans, Gulfstream Café, Joey D’s Oak Room, New York Prime, The Tavern at Phipps)
https://centraarchy.com/happenings/
Any U.S. veteran or active duty military member is invited to enjoy a FREE entree Monday, November 11, at any CentraArchy restaurant location.

Chili’s
www.chilis.com/restaurant-events/veterans-day
Thank you for your service. Your Veterans Day meal is on us.
All veterans & active military members can get a free meal on Veterans Day Nov. 11 at all participating Chili's Grill & Bar restaurants. Please call ahead to your local Chili’s restaurant if you have any questions about your Veterans Day meals.

City Barbeque
www.citybbq.com/blog/all-veterans-and-active-military-get-a-free-meal-on...
All day on Monday, Nov. 11, all veterans and U.S. military can stop by any City Barbeque location and receive a free sandwich, two sides and a regular beverage, applicable on either dine-in or carryout orders.

Cotton Patch Cafe
https://cottonpatch.com/community/celebrating-causes/
Every Veterans Day, all our restaurants are proud to serve our Award Winning Chicken Fried Steak or Chicken Fried Chicken FREE to all Veteran’s and Active Duty Military.

Country Cookin
http://countrycookin.com/community/honoring-those-who-serve/
All active, reserve, retired, and honorably discharged members of the U.S. military are invited to dine at their local Country Cookin on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11. Simply show valid military ID (such as a VA benefits card) and fill out the service card to receive a free salad bar or $5 off any entree. Thank you for your service to our country!

Country Kitchen
https://countrykitchenrestaurants.com/
We invite all active and retired military to enjoy a free country scramble on Veterans Day at participating restaurants. Must provide proof of service.

Cracker Barrel
https://crackerbarrel.com/veterans-day?value=home2
On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, all U.S. military veterans and active duty military receive a complimentary Pumpkin Pie Latte or a slice of our Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake at all Cracker Barrel locations to thank them for their service and sacrifice for our country.
​
Crooked Pint Ale House
https://www.crookedpint.com/veterans-special/
Veterans and active-duty military eat free Monday, Nov. 11. We’re proud to honor those who served on Veterans Day, with a free menu item. Free meal offer includes any single item from our menu for dine-in only. Active-duty military and veterans must show proof of service. Available on Nov. 11 at participating Crooked Pint locations only. Not valid with any other discount or offer. Beverages and gratuity not included.

WASHINGTON— The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced today that Marine Corps Pfc. Marley R. Arthurholtz, 20, of South Bend, Indiana, killed during World War II, was accounted for Sept. 18, 2019.
                                                                                                                                          
On Dec. 7, 1941, Arthurholtz was assigned to the battleship USS Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft. The USS Oklahoma sustained multiple torpedo hits, which caused it to quickly capsize. The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen, including Arthurholtz. 
 
From December 1941 to June 1944, Navy personnel recovered the remains of the deceased crew, which were subsequently interred in the Halawa and Nu’uanu Cemeteries.
 
In September 1947, tasked with recovering and identifying fallen U.S. personnel in the Pacific Theater, members of the American Graves Registration Service (AGRS) disinterred the remains of U.S. casualties from the two cemeteries and transferred them to the Central Identification Laboratory at Schofield Barracks. The laboratory staff was only able to confirm the identifications of 35 men from the USS Oklahoma at that time. The AGRS subsequently buried the unidentified remains in 46 plots at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, known as the Punchbowl, in Honolulu. In October 1949, a military board classified those who could not be identified as non-recoverable, including Arthurholtz.
 
Between June and November 2015, DPAA personnel exhumed the USS Oklahoma Unknowns from the Punchbowl for analysis.
­
To identify Arthurholtz’s remains, scientists from DPAA used dental and anthropological analysis.  Additionally, scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), Y-chromosome DNA (Y-STR), and autosomal DNA (auSTR) analysis.
 
DPAA is grateful to the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of the Navy for their partnership in this mission.
 
Of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II, more than 400,000 died during the war. Currently there are 72,648 still unaccounted for from World War II with approximately 30,000 assessed as possibly recoverable. Arthurholtz’s name is recorded in the Courts of the Missing at the Punchbowl, along with the others who are missing from WWII. A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for.
 
For family information, contact the Marine Corps Service Casualty office at (800) 847-1597.
 
Arthurholtz will be buried Nov. 30, 2019, in Granger, Indiana.
 
For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for Americans who went missing while serving our country, visit the DPAA website at www.dpaa.mil, find us on social media at www.facebook.com/dodpaa or call (703) 699-1420/1169.