tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8816588746747494342024-03-13T14:16:14.486-07:00Soldier storiesStories and news from the men and women in the Reporter's coverage area who are currently serving in the military and stories from our veterans.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-62422098993965739472013-08-02T12:45:00.000-07:002013-08-02T12:45:08.057-07:00John Abbott: Remembering a Civil War hero<h2 class="blog_title" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 28px; line-height: 1.2em; margin: 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #363636; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; line-height: 21px;">This item is being republished to correct information provided by the author. It was originally submitted to The Reporter by Richard A. McGeary, formerly of Towamencin, in 2010. Sergeant Abbott was his great-grand-uncle. </span></h2>
<div class="post-body" style="background-color: white; color: #363636; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">
<br />John Abbott was working the family farm at Gravelly Run, just outside Mays Landing, N.J., when the Civil War broke out.<br />A devout Methodist, John decided to serve both his nation and his God by fighting to preserve the Union and help destroy the evil institution of slavery.<br />In July 1961, two months after shots were fired at Fort Sumter, S.C., 22 year-old John Abbott enlisted in the 48th New York State Volunteers.<br />A well-known Methodist minister in New York, the Rev. James H. Perry, led the 48th. Although the regiment was officially known as the Continental Guards, it soon took on the name of its founder and was called Perry’s Saints or The Fighting Parson’s Regiment.<br />Recruits from New Jersey, including John Abbott, formed Company D. John’s older brother, the Rev. William T. Abbott, joined the 23rd New Jersey Volunteer Infantry as chaplain.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulilhNv2UVbkCAlzxkGaT_UpLZTNKcdaNMpB8F_l-XlvFTkUi2Rx0JMVoSdnPFY2zSF6Vge2IYaIfxXC4DQ-0RsGldvoOFJXZ2DBKS3vn26_x0ibKmaCUxAuyGChqWIm4oWTlrbVza7rz/s1600/wabbott1.jpg" style="color: #ca1a00; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489381851314782242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulilhNv2UVbkCAlzxkGaT_UpLZTNKcdaNMpB8F_l-XlvFTkUi2Rx0JMVoSdnPFY2zSF6Vge2IYaIfxXC4DQ-0RsGldvoOFJXZ2DBKS3vn26_x0ibKmaCUxAuyGChqWIm4oWTlrbVza7rz/s320/wabbott1.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 320px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; padding: 4px; width: 222px;" /></a><br /><br />Camping on Capitol Hill, the regiment initially protected Washington, D.C., as a part of Gen. Sherman’s 1st Brigade. In late October 1861, the 48th embarked for Beaufort, S.C. The regiment engaged the enemy at Port Royal Ferry and participated in the capture of the fortifications in January 1862. The 48th then took a prominent role in the siege of Fort Pulaski, Georgia, performed garrison duty, conducted several expeditions in the region, and fought a number of skirmishes.<br />John Abbott rose through the ranks and was promoted to sergeant. However, in the summer of 1863, Sgt. Abbott and the 48th were about to meet their greatest challenge, one that would earn Company D its nickname in blood, “The Die No Mores.”<br /><br />Union leaders decided to strike a major blow against the Confederacy by taking the city of Charleston, where the war had begun two years earlier. However, the Confederate Fort Wagner on Morris Island, across from Fort Sumter and Charleston, blocked that objective. In early July an amphibious federal force landed at the north end of Morris Island but was repulsed. The fort was well-protected by a narrow approach up the beach, a moat and then a ditch with pointed spikes.<br /><br />On July 18, 1863, Gen. Strong led a brigade of six regiments, including the 48th, in an assault on Fort Wagner from the south. Made famous in the motion picture “Glory,” the 54th Massachusetts, a regiment of African-American soldiers led by Col. Robert Shaw, led the attack with fixed bayonets.<br />In fierce fighting with terrible casualties, the 54th briefly occupied a small portion of the fort but was forced to withdraw. The 48th with 500 men and 16 officers charged directly toward Fort Wagner’s seaward wall only to be mowed down by concentrated Confederate fire, including a fearsome coastal howitzer.<br />Still, the 48th courageously stormed the rampart and held it for three hours before being forced to retreat. Casualties numbered over 1,700; Confederates counted 800 Union dead within the walls of the fort. The 48th alone suffered 242 casualties, including 14 of its 16 officers. Sgt. Abbott was severely wounded leading his men in the attack. The Army evacuated him on the steamer Cosmopolitan to the Army Hospital at Fort Schuyler, N.Y. (at Throggs Neck, Bronx, which is the current site of the State University of New York Maritime College).<br />Unwilling to repeat the carnage of July 18, Union generals <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrUt8m4yfmmE4lrLigoyi93YJz3xwRvbycXJuuaWBEP9ZOv3n4CuGBDvy4sy1HiQctfxWSjJkztAVXn-OaByeaJ_nWFFWE_8wTrpkQTxObNlcx9wUuru1ER7Z5EYNIs8qoD8B7pL82tQx/s1600/wabott2.jpg" style="color: #ca1a00; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489381980595480354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrUt8m4yfmmE4lrLigoyi93YJz3xwRvbycXJuuaWBEP9ZOv3n4CuGBDvy4sy1HiQctfxWSjJkztAVXn-OaByeaJ_nWFFWE_8wTrpkQTxObNlcx9wUuru1ER7Z5EYNIs8qoD8B7pL82tQx/s320/wabott2.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; padding: 4px; width: 240px;" /></a>placed Fort Wagner under siege for 58 days until the Confederates evacuated. Charleston fell soon after.<br /><br />Abbott arrived at Fort Schuyler on July 30 but despite treatment of his wounds, he died the morning of Aug. 7, 1863. He was 24 years old and single. His service record describes him as having brown hair and hazel eyes.<br />Ironically, he died just a few miles across Long Island Sound from where his Abbott ancestors first set foot on American soil from England in 1693. Abbott’s body was returned to Mays Landing, and he was buried in the family plot at Union Cemetery just down the road from the fields he peacefully farmed before he answered the call to serve his nation.<br /><br />On the day he died, Sgt. Abbott dictated a final letter to his father and in closing stated:<br /><br />“Say to the people of Mays Landing that I died at my post. When I joined the Army I was willing to die for my country, and to prove my devotion to the flag. It demanded my life which I willingly give.”</div>
Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-50038450864344997192013-01-24T06:20:00.004-08:002013-01-24T06:20:50.497-08:00Towamencin man completes military training<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> Army National Guard Pvt.
Mark T. Scherer has graduated from One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at
Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesville, Mo., which included basic military
training and advanced individual training (AIT).<br />
During basic military training, the trainee received instruction in
drill and ceremony, weapons qualification, map reading, tactics,
military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and
Army doctrine, history, principles and traditions.<br />
During AIT, the soldier completed the military police specialist
course to acquire skills to provide combat area support, conduct
battlefield circulation control, area security, prisoner of war
operations, civilian internee operations, and law and order
operations. The trainee performed as a team member in support of
battlefield operations, installation law and order operations and
security of Army resources and installations. Additional training
included providing peacetime support to the military community
through security of resources, crime prevention programs, and
preservation of law and order.<br />
Scherer is the son of Anita and Mark Scherer of Harleysville.<br />
He is a 2010 graduate of North Penn High School, Towamencin.<br />
</span></span>Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-66066483290233615112012-11-27T07:38:00.003-08:002012-11-27T07:38:47.706-08:00North Penn grad completes basic training<br />
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Air Force
Airman James R. Sorensen graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air
Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
The airman
completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military
discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic
warfare principles and skills.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Airmen who
complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied
science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sorensen is
the son of Molly Sander of Lansdale, and Greg Sorensen of Middletown.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1WewXSZ7fwabM0sgMBHwqiTvVDn5CI2LpjuJfKBz80w8tcn2QphMz8-J8YxCq6pZXZBslfUIVFRqORKqCpzYWMjDUpA8LPtKCtLe-TuYATYaOzQOZarahrI0WMik7SXq2TdkDeoyBkShv/s1600/soldier+sorensen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1WewXSZ7fwabM0sgMBHwqiTvVDn5CI2LpjuJfKBz80w8tcn2QphMz8-J8YxCq6pZXZBslfUIVFRqORKqCpzYWMjDUpA8LPtKCtLe-TuYATYaOzQOZarahrI0WMik7SXq2TdkDeoyBkShv/s320/soldier+sorensen.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
He is a 2009
graduate of North Penn Senior High School, Towamencin.<o:p></o:p></div>
Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-86958743980930504092012-11-26T06:42:00.003-08:002012-11-26T06:42:34.675-08:00Area man completes Navy training<span style="font-size: 13px;">Navy Seaman Recruit Melvin D. Gary, Jr, son of Denise M. and Melvin D. Gary of Lansdale, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. </span><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-size: 13px;"> During the eight-week program, Gary completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. </span><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-size: 13px;"> The capstone event of boot camp is "Battle Stations". This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. "Battle Stations" is designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Its distinctly ''Navy'' flavor was designed to take into account what it means to be a Sailor. </span><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gary is a 2008 graduate of Pottstown Senior High School of Pottstown. </span>Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-90403464025115951932012-11-06T07:05:00.001-08:002012-11-06T07:05:10.483-08:00North Penn HS grad completes Navy training <span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">-Navy Seaman Sade M. Gary Lowe, a 2004 graduate of North Penn High School,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Towamencin,</span> recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. <br />
During the eight-week program, Gary Lowe completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. <br />
<br />
</span></span>Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-82079990169192191632012-06-19T08:04:00.002-07:002012-06-19T08:04:37.582-07:00Sellersville veterans honored on Armed Forces Day<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Crossroads
Hospice Celebrates Sellersville Veterans </span></b><span style="color: black;"></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">in
Honor of Armed Forces Day</span></b><span style="color: black;"></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG92HAPNiW9w8jsEVautakUvYpWxbDk214np9UfzNwEUzBakPSKSv4FPRvzhTSo5tzBtGcjUZ2aNZyAAtoqJX0Ysp3r4UWBi_gmMvLbrp2Kdxcp3FFwjChKTyCSR7Sb02uvnDU4_2jrTUi/s1600/Armed+Forces+Day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG92HAPNiW9w8jsEVautakUvYpWxbDk214np9UfzNwEUzBakPSKSv4FPRvzhTSo5tzBtGcjUZ2aNZyAAtoqJX0Ysp3r4UWBi_gmMvLbrp2Kdxcp3FFwjChKTyCSR7Sb02uvnDU4_2jrTUi/s320/Armed+Forces+Day.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> Crossroads Hospice Volunteer Coordinator Kimberly Mumper
presents Savory Fulginiti of Hidden Meadows on the Ridge with a certificate of
recognition for his service in the armed forces.</span></b></td></tr>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Crossroads Hospice recently
joined Hidden Meadows on the Ridge to honor its veterans on Armed Forces Day.
During the ceremony at the senior living community in Sellersville, veterans
were individually presented with a certificate, hat and words of recognition by
Crossroads Hospice. </span><span style="color: black;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: none; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span></b><span style="color: black;"></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">“We recognize the sacrifices our veterans have made and believe we
owe a debt of gratitude for the security they have provided by defending our
nation,” said Gloria Allon, Executive Director of Crossroads Hospice. “Whether
we’re honoring a veteran patient at his bedside with his family, or recognizing
50 veterans at an assisted living facility in a group ceremony, we take the
time to say ‘thank you’ and show our support for their tremendous service.” </span><span style="color: black;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: none; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Throughout history thousands of men and women have proudly served
our </span><span style="color: black;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">country, leaving family and friends behind to defend our great
nation and its ideals. </span><span style="color: black;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Recognizing their bravery, Crossroads Hospice has developed the
“Honor Our Veterans” Recognition Campaign to acknowledge our veteran patients,
staff members and veterans in the community. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;"> SUBMITTED BY CROSSROADS HOSPICE/HIDDEN MEADOWS ON THE RIDGE</span></i></b><span style="color: black;"></span></div>Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-19098032248791512822012-01-13T06:00:00.000-08:002012-01-13T06:00:22.305-08:00Souderton man completes Navy training<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Navy Seaman David A.
Divito, son of Berit M. and David W. Divito of Souderton, recently
completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great
Lakes, Ill.
<br />
During the eight-week program, Divito completed a variety of
training which included classroom study and practical instruction on
naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and
shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was
also placed on physical fitness. <br />
The capstone event of boot camp is "Battle Stations". This
exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed
in the fleet. "Battle Stations" is designed to galvanize the basic
warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork
and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic
Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Its
distinctly ''Navy'' flavor was designed to take into account what it
means to be a Sailor.
<br />
Divito is a 2011 graduate of Souderton Area High School of Souderton. </span></span>Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-11965433424968004452012-01-04T08:48:00.000-08:002012-01-04T08:48:04.232-08:00Perkasie men return after service in Iraq<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> Army Spec. Christopher P.
Gunther has returned to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., after
being deployed to Iraq serving in support of Operation New Dawn.<br />
Members from all branches of the U.S. military and multinational
forces were also assisting in rebuilding Iraq's economic and
governmental infrastructure, and training and preparing Iraqi military
and security forces to assume full authority and responsibility
in defending and preserving Iraq's sovereignty and independence as a
democracy.<br />
Operation New Dawn officially came to an end Dec. 15, 2011.<br />
Gunther, a healthcare specialist and combat medic with the 77th
Sustainment Brigade, Fort Dix, has served 3 years in the military.<br />
The specialist is a resident of Perkasie.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> Army Spec. Jonathan D.
Frick has returned to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., after
being deployed to Iraq serving in support of Operation New Dawn.<br />
Members from all branches of the U.S. military and multinational
forces were also assisting in rebuilding Iraq's economic and
governmental infrastructure, and training and preparing Iraqi military
and security forces to assume full authority and responsibility
in defending and preserving Iraq's sovereignty and independence as a
democracy.<br />
Operation New Dawn officially came to an end Dec. 15, 2011.<br />
Frick, a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 77th Sustainment Brigade, Fort Dix.<br />
The specialist is a resident of Perkasie.<br />
</span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span>Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-29299740541074601982011-12-01T07:03:00.000-08:002011-12-01T07:05:48.096-08:00Area men complete Marine Corps basic traningMarine Corps Pvt. Chase J. Mateu, son of I-hwa Midey Chang Mateu of Ambler, and Joa Quin Mateu, also of Ambler, recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S. C designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.<br /> Mateu and fellow recruits began their training at 5 a. m., by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, Mateu spent numerous hours in classroom and field assignments which included learning first aid, uniform regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and assorted weapons training. They performed close order drill and operated as a small infantry unit during field training.<br /> Mateu and other recruits also received instruction on the Marine Corps' core values--honor, courage and commitment, and what the core values mean in guiding personal and professional conduct.<br /> Mateu and fellow recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour, team evolution culminating in an emotional ceremony in which recruits are presented the Marine Corps Emblem, and addressed as "Marines" for the first time in their careers.<br /> Marine Corps Pvt. Andrew D. Fedorocsko, son of Kathy and John Fedorocsko of Quakertown, recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S. C designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.<br /> Fedorocsko and fellow recruits began their training at 5 a. m., by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, Fedorocsko spent numerous hours in classroom and field assignments which included learning first aid, uniform regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and assorted weapons training. They performed close order drill and operated as a small infantry unit during field training.<br /> Fedorocsko and other recruits also received instruction on the Marine Corps' core values--honor, courage and commitment, and what the core values mean in guiding personal and professional conduct.<br /> Fedorocsko and fellow recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour, team evolution culminating in an emotional ceremony in which recruits are presented the Marine Corps Emblem, and addressed as "Marines" for the first time in their careers.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-25889815840028739642011-11-17T08:33:00.000-08:002011-11-17T08:41:13.613-08:00Area native retires from Air ForceSMSgt. Michael Barnett, a 1982 North Penn High School graduate, recently retired from service. A recognition and retirement ceremony in his honor was held at Joint Base Langley-Eustis Virginia.<br />Barnett served as Superintended, Logistics Compliance Assessment Team Training, Headquarters Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley Air Force Base, Virginia.<br />Barnett was born in Philadelphia to Evangeline and Wimblett Barnett. He began his Air Force career as an Aero Space Ground Equipment Dispatcher Driver in 1985. He served in numerous training manager positions, culminating his career with being assigned to the Logistics Compliance Assessment Team in 2009.<br />Barnett and his wife, Donna, have four children, Juney, Seville, Mike II and Denzell.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-29818282958587563202011-11-17T08:29:00.000-08:002011-11-17T08:31:00.114-08:00Lansdale man completes program, graduatesMarine Corps Pvt. Alex M. LaRosa, son of Linda and John A. LaRosa of Lansdale, recently graduated the Marine Urban Breacher Course (MUBC).<br />The mission of MUBC is to provide comprehensive training on the tools, skills, and tactical considerations needed to successfully gain entry into buildings using mechanical, ballistic, and explosive entry techniques.<br />Upon graduation LaRosa has become equip to make sound choices, mitigate hazards and effectively communicate with others involved in a breach.<br />LaRosa is a 2007 graduate of Christopher Dock High School in Towamencin.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-37578777955575678882011-11-07T08:43:00.000-08:002011-11-07T08:43:30.528-08:00Area man commissioned as second lieutenant<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;">Souderton Area High School graduate Andrew Wentz son of Mike and Chris Wentz of
Franconia, was recenlty commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air
Force at Maxwell AFB in Alabama.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;">A 2010 graduate of Bloomsburg University, he
was selected as a pilot by the PA Air Guard's 193rd Special Ops Wing after
completing FAA private pilot training. He will initially be stationed in Pueblo,
CO for AF Flight School.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNy0IUSu40xTnVM64YXy4DmpqhtmxU7yi7lt08yQhtfuvtpOJCNXpaYz_u9QqAADtBkF6tFHAKmgLmV46nrjnz1US_FTeX9m73q0cOls5eNL5l5ouMuFW1k7sFyueIDkBSsbWbiDPwq_3o/s1600/wentzcommissioned.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNy0IUSu40xTnVM64YXy4DmpqhtmxU7yi7lt08yQhtfuvtpOJCNXpaYz_u9QqAADtBkF6tFHAKmgLmV46nrjnz1US_FTeX9m73q0cOls5eNL5l5ouMuFW1k7sFyueIDkBSsbWbiDPwq_3o/s320/wentzcommissioned.JPG" width="246" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;">Upon graduation, Drew will be assigned to fly the
C130J<span class="st1"><span style="color: #222222;"> "Super" Hercules. </span></span></span></span></div>Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-77358442637547233752011-10-17T07:13:00.000-07:002011-10-17T07:13:54.426-07:00SAHS graduate completes Army National Guard training Army National Guard Pfc. Truong G. Dang has graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga.<br />
During the nine weeks of training, the soldier received training in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, core values and traditions. Additional training included development of basic combat skills and battlefield operations and tactics, and experiencing use of various weapons and weapons defenses available to the infantry crewman.<br />
Dang is a 2011 graduate of Souderton Area High School.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-53030086202782460652011-10-17T07:12:00.000-07:002011-10-17T07:12:06.706-07:00Lower Gwynedd man completes program at US Naval AcademyNavy Midshipman Godfrey T. Baldez, III, son of Letitia A. Ellis-Baldez and Godfrey T. Baldez of Lower Gwynedd, and more than 900 other freshmen recently completed Plebe Summer while attending the United States Naval Academy.<br />Plebe summer is the summer training program which is required of all incoming freshmen to the U.S. Naval Academy. The six-weeks training developed Baldez morally, mentally and physically. He was also instilled with the highest ideals of duty, honor and loyalty. Baldez will go on to complete the academic year as a Midshipmen.<br />Baldez is a 2011 graduate of Phil- Mont Christian Academy of Erdenhiem.<br />Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-5766451878362607462011-10-17T07:10:00.001-07:002011-10-17T07:11:09.788-07:00SASH graduate completes program at US Naval AcademyNavy Midshipman Collin W. Parry, son of Karen D. and Jack A. Parry of Telford, and more than 900 other freshmen recently completed Plebe Summer while attending the United States Naval Academy.<br />
Plebe summer is the summer training program which is required of all incoming freshmen to the U.S. Naval Academy. The six-weeks training developed Parry morally, mentally and physically. He was also instilled with the highest ideals of duty, honor and loyalty. Parry will go on to complete the academic year as a Midshipmen.<br />
Parry is a 2011 graduate of Souderton Area High School of Souderton.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-77934533391550616612011-10-17T07:09:00.001-07:002011-10-17T07:09:35.779-07:00NP graduate completes program at US Naval AcademyNavy Midshipman Kevin P. Lake, son of Joy N. Lake and stepson of John Pilon of Lansdale, and more than 900 other freshmen recently completed Plebe Summer while attending the United States Naval Academy.<br />Plebe summer is the summer training program which is required of all incoming freshmen to the U.S. Naval Academy. The six-weeks training developed Lake morally, mentally and physically. He was also instilled with the highest ideals of duty, honor and loyalty. Lake will go on to complete the academic year as a Midshipmen.<br />Lake is a 2011 graduate of North Penn High School of Lansdale.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-58331269565941712152011-08-23T05:22:00.000-07:002011-08-23T05:25:58.104-07:00Lansdale woman promoted
<br /><div class="right relatedimage"> <a href="http://www.dvidshub.net/image/445171/lansdale-pa-native-and-marine-oef-veteran-promoted-next-rank-son-and-father"><img alt="Lansdale, Pa., native and Marine OEF Veteran is promoted to next rank by son and father" src="http://d3.static.dvidshub.net/media/thumbs/258w/photos/1108/445171_q75.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; display: block;" width="258" height="172" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">By Gunnery Sgt. Alexis Mulero</span>
<br />
<br /> Lansdale native and North Penn High School class of 1998 graduate Dawn M. Edwards was promoted to the rank of Marine Corps gunnery sergeant during a ceremony with fellow Marines and family members aboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia, Aug. 19.
<br /> </div>
<br />Gunnery Sergeant Edwards’ rank was pinned on by her eight-year-old son, Kyle Edwards and by her father Michael Philbin.
<br />Edwards entered active military service in September 1998, and is currently serving as a communications technician at Marine Corps Training and Advisory Group (MCTAG) in Virginia Beach, Va.
<br />
<br />Prior to checking into MCTAG, Edwards served as a communications instructor with the Marine Corps Communications and Electronics School located at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twenty Nine Palms, Calif. from July 2008 until July 2011.
<br />
<br />She is a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom.
<br />Her parents Michael and Eleanore Philbin still reside in Lansdale, Pa., area.
<br />
<br />Marine Corps Training and Advisory Group coordinates, manages, executes, and evaluates U.S. Marine Corps Security Cooperation (SC) programs and activities to include assessments, planning, related education and training, and advisory support to ensure unity of effort in building Partner Nation Security Force (PNSF) capacity and capability in order to facilitate U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) and regional Marine Forces component command (MARFOR) SC objectives.
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">IN THE PHOTO ABOVE</span>: Lansdale native, Gunnery Sgt. Dawn Edwards was pinned on to the rank of gunnery sergeant by her son Kyle Edwards and her father Michael Philbin. Edwards is a communications technician stationed at Marine Corps Training and Advisory Group. (Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Alexis Mulero)
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-77944914745591091912011-06-20T12:53:00.000-07:002011-06-20T12:54:11.882-07:00Area man completes Navy basic traningNavy Seaman Andrew M. Sipp, brother of Jamie L. Sipp of Lansdale, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.<br /> During the eight-week program, Sipp completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.<br /> The capstone event of boot camp is "Battle Stations". This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. "Battle Stations" is designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Its distinctly ''Navy'' flavor was designed to take into account what it means to be a Sailor.<br />Sipp is a 2005 graduate of North Penn High School.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-4208930950555384832011-06-20T12:51:00.000-07:002011-06-20T12:52:03.510-07:00Area man recently commissionedNavy Ensign Eric P. Leis, son of Beth and Paul Leis of Worcester, was recently commissioned upon graduation from the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Program with Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps Unit, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Ind.<br /> During college, Leis completed naval science courses and academic courses that fulfilled degree requirements. These courses, combined with annual summer training aboard ships and shore installation, served to prepare NROTC graduates for the intellectual, mental and physical challenges of a commissioned officer.<br /> Leis is a 2007 graduate of St. Joseph's Preparatory School of Philadelphia He is a 2011 graduate of University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Ind. with a BS degree.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-1889043619571207682011-06-20T12:34:00.000-07:002011-06-20T12:35:25.500-07:00Area woman mobilized, prepares for deploymentArmy Reserve Capt. Angela T. Steel has been mobilized and activated at Joint Base Dix-McGuire-Lakehurst, N.J., in preparation for deployment to serve in support of either Operation New Dawn in the Iraqi Theater of Operations or Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and the Southwest Theater of Operations. The soldier is a member of the 352nd Civil Affairs Command, at Fort George G. Meade, Laurel, Md.<br /> The soldiers are normally activated from Army Reserve or Army National Guard units from throughout the U.S. They go through a series of in-processing procedures and training classes that prepare them for skills and situations they may face in their deployed environment.<br /> Operation New Dawn transitions and signifies a formal end to U.S. military combat operations in Iraq. The transition shifts the U.S. emphasis from predominantly military to predominately civilian as the U.S. officials assist Iraqis in accordance with the Strategic Framework Agreement. The three primary missions of U.S. Forces include advising, assisting, and training the Iraqi Security Forces; conducting partnered counterterrorism operations; and providing support to provincial reconstruction teams and civilian partners as they help build Iraq's civil capacity.<br /> Operation Enduring Freedom is the official names given to anti-terrorism military operations involving U.S. troops and allied coalition partners. Active duty and reserve component members from all branches of the U.S. armed forces have been deployed to support the war against global terrorism outside the borders of the United States. U.S. troops serve in South and Southwest Asia, Iraq, the Arabian peninsula, islands in the Pacific, and Europe.<br /> Steel will be serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.<br /> The captain is a public health nurse with six years of military service.<br /> She is the daughter of William and Marybeth Steel of Harleysville.<br /> In 2000, Steel graduated from Souderton Area High School, and received a bachelor's degree in 2005 from Pennsylvania State University, State College.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-11736853377562402852011-06-20T12:32:00.001-07:002011-06-20T12:32:59.428-07:00Area man completes combat trainingArmy Pfc. Christopher M. Hurley has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.<br /> During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.<br /> He is the son of Andrew Hurley of Blue Bell.<br /> Hurley graduated in 2004 from Souderton Area High Scholo.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-65200675995338808832011-06-20T12:31:00.001-07:002011-06-20T12:31:53.650-07:00Area woman completes basic traningAir Force Airman 1st Class Lesley A. Kriebel graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.<br /> The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.<br /> Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.<br /> She is the daughter of Monica Kriebel of Lansdale.<br /> Kriebel graduated in 2005 from North Penn High School.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-7341733909708581682011-05-25T06:13:00.000-07:002011-05-25T06:16:26.355-07:00Area men return from Iraq<span style="font-weight: bold;">Army Reserve Sgt. Scott M. Magro </span>is returning to the U.S. after a deployment to Iraq serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn, or Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and the Southwest Asia Theater of Operations.<br /> The soldiers return to Joint Base Dix-McGuire-Lakehurst, N.J., for debriefing, evaluations and out-processing procedures before returning to their regularly assigned Army Reserve or National Guard units.<br /> Operation New Dawn transitions and signifies a formal end to U.S. military combat operations in Iraq. The transition shifts the U.S. emphasis from predominantly military to predominately civilian as the U.S. officials assist Iraqis in accordance with the Strategic Framework Agreement. The three primary missions of U.S. Forces include advising, assisting, and training the Iraqi Security Forces; conducting partnered counterterrorism operations; and providing support to provincial reconstruction teams and civilian partners as they help build Iraq's civil capacity.<br /> Operation Enduring Freedom is the official name given to anti-terrorism military operations involving U.S. troops and allied coalition partners. Active duty and reserve component members from all branches of the U.S. armed forces have been deployed to support the war against global terrorism outside the borders of the United States. U.S. troops serve in South, Southwest and Central Asia, the Arabian peninsula, the Horn of Africa, islands in the Pacific, and Europe.<br /> Magro served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.<br /> The sergeant, a military police member with nine years of military service, is regularly assigned to the 372nd Military Police Company, based out of Cumberland, Md.<br /> He is the son of Barbara A. Magro of Depue Ave., Philadelphia, Pa.<br /> His wife, Christine, is the daughter of Michael J. and Betty M. Linko of Briarwood Lane, Harleysville, Pa.<br /> In 1991, Magro graduated from North Penn High School, Lansdale.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Army Reserve Spec. Christopher W. Noll</span> is returning to the U.S. after a deployment to Iraq serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn, or Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and the Southwest Asia Theater of Operations.<br /> The soldiers return to Joint Base Dix-McGuire-Lakehurst, N.J., for debriefing, evaluations and out-processing procedures before returning to their regularly assigned Army Reserve or National Guard units.<br /> Operation New Dawn transitions and signifies a formal end to U.S. military combat operations in Iraq. The transition shifts the U.S. emphasis from predominantly military to predominately civilian as the U.S. officials assist Iraqis in accordance with the Strategic Framework Agreement. The three primary missions of U.S. Forces include advising, assisting, and training the Iraqi Security Forces; conducting partnered counterterrorism operations; and providing support to provincial reconstruction teams and civilian partners as they help build Iraq's civil capacity.<br /> Operation Enduring Freedom is the official name given to anti-terrorism military operations involving U.S. troops and allied coalition partners. Active duty and reserve component members from all branches of the U.S. armed forces have been deployed to support the war against global terrorism outside the borders of the United States. U.S. troops serve in South, Southwest and Central Asia, the Arabian peninsula, the Horn of Africa, islands in the Pacific, and Europe.<br /> Noll served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.<br /> The specialist, a military police member with four years of military service, is regularly assigned to the 372nd Military Police Company, based out of Cumberland, Md.<br /> The specialist graduated in 2004 from Wissahickon Senior High School, Ambler, Lower Gwynedd.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-46367896387529078112011-05-12T05:57:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:43:58.251-07:00Organization to provide family portraits for Armed Forces at no cost SaturdayWilmington, NC – HeartsApart.org, an organization created to keep families connected while military men and women are serving abroad, has officially reached the Philadelphia area.<br />Area photographer Fred Troilo of Fred Troilo Photography located in Springfield will be providing one of the first free of charge photo session for local military families on Saturday, May 14.<br />HeartsApart.org provides soon-to-be-deployed servicemen and women with pictures of their spouse and children by matching families with professional photographers across the country. The photographs are printed on waterproof, bi-folded vinyl cards which fit securely in soldier's uniform pockets. Families should visit <a href="http://www.heartsapart.org/">http://www.heartsapart.org/</a> for information on how to participate.<br />"When I first heard about HeartsApart.org, I thought, 'What an incredible idea.' I knew it would be an honor for me to create memories for soldiers who have sacrificed so much. For me, it’s a very small way to say thank you," said Troilo.<br />Troilo has been in the business of capturing memories on film for nearly 30 years. A graduate of the Art Institute of Philadelphia, he spent 18 seasons as a team photographer for the Philadelphia Eagles and also covered the Phillies and Flyers, according to a press release from<br />HeartsApart.org. He recently worked on an assignment for the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, meeting and photographing the Apollo 11 crew, according to<br />HeartsApart.org.<br />Founded in North Carolina, HeartsApart.org now includes photographers across the country. "Our goal is simple. As long as servicemen and women are in harms way and separated from their families, we will be taking pictures," said Brett Martin, Executive Director.<br />"There is no end to the project - just a commitment to continue to serve our Armed Forces while they serve us."<br />The non-profit has been operating since the summer of 2010. Martin said, "This project is too big for anyone to take on alone. Without the help of sponsors, volunteers and donations, this would be impossible. We all owe it to our troops to get involved."<br />HeartsApart.org asks that photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists, wardrobe stylists and most importantly local financial donors and sponsors join the cause. Donations can be made at <a href="http://www.heartsapart.org/">http://www.heartsapart.org/</a>.<br />Most importantly, families of soon to be deployed Armed Forces are invited to visit the website and schedule their family portrait.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-881658874674749434.post-26482834272346438312011-05-10T12:08:00.002-07:002011-05-10T12:10:02.316-07:00Army Reserve Capt. returns from deployment in IraqArmy Reserve Capt. Pamela A. Park is returning to the U.S. after a deployment to Iraq serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn, or Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and the Southwest Asia Theater of Operations.<br />The soldiers return to Joint Base Dix-McGuire-Lakehurst, N.J., for debriefing, evaluations and out-processing procedures before returning to their regularly assigned Army Reserve or National Guard units.<br />Operation New Dawn transitions and signifies a formal end to U.S. military combat operations in Iraq. The transition shifts the U.S. emphasis from predominantly military to predominately civilian as the U.S. officials assist Iraqis in accordance with the Strategic Framework Agreement. The three primary missions of U.S. Forces include advising, assisting, and training the Iraqi Security Forces; conducting partnered counterterrorism operations; and providing support to provincial reconstruction teams and civilian partners as they help build Iraq's civil capacity.<br />Operation Enduring Freedom is the official name given to anti-terrorism military operations involving U.S. troops and allied coalition partners. Active duty and reserve component members from all branches of the U.S. armed forces have been deployed to support the war against global terrorism outside the borders of the United States. U.S. troops serve in South, Southwest and Central Asia, the Arabian peninsula, the Horn of Africa, islands in the Pacific, and Europe.<br />The specialist served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Southwest Asia.<br />Park, a physician assistant with 27 years of military service, is assigned to the 404th Civil Affairs Battalion, San Diego, Calif.<br />He is the son of Barbara Weideman of Clover Lane, Plymouth Meeting, Pa., and William Park of Montgomery Ave., Souderton, Pa.Lifestyle Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15048857979135639513noreply@blogger.com0