The 407th Air Service Squadron of World War II: GROUP 23: UNG

JOHN R. UNG

John Richard Ung was born on September 18, 1924 in Los Angeles, California according to the California Birth Index at Ancestry.com. The middle name appeared in his obituary.

The 1930 United States census counted Ung as the second of four siblings. They lived with their parents, John and Bertha, in Los Angeles at 810 Juan Street. His father was a cafe waiter. Ung’s paternal grandparents were Kin Hing Ung and Dong Shee. His maternal grandparents were Manuel Ramirez and Mildred Garcia.

In the 1940 census Ung was in Los Angles at 645 Castelar Street.

Ung attended Abraham Lincoln High School in Los Angeles.

1940 Lincolnian yearbook

On December 18, 1942 Ung signed his World War II draft card. His address was the same. He was described as five feet four inches, 120 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

Ung enlisted on May 22, 1943.

Ung was on page 74 of Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993. In the Shadow of the Tiger listed Ung on page 217.

John R. Ung…..Los Angeles, California

In the book Ung appeared in four photographs on pages 38, 56, 63 and 67.

The squadron’s publication, Gung Ho, No. 3, January 7, 1944, said

...Talk about details, here’s one that was thrown on the willing shoulders of 12 GI’s on New Years Day...Having used the Loreto [sic] Club for our New Year Eve spree the place had to be policed up...so on New Year’s morn Pvts Nem Young [sic], Pong Ng, Wilbert Chung, Pfc’s Goy Chin, Harry King, Cpls Park Chin, John Ung, Ray Fong, Chee O. Der, Stephen Ng, Tonley Ju & S/Sgt. York Kao wore duly selected for this detail...the place was thoroly [sic] GI’d under the direction of 4 members of the club, feminine gender..then the detail was tendered a dinner with the fund remaining from the party...as guests they had the foregoing four ladies.......how nice!

Gung Ho, No. 5, January 21, 1944, said

8 EM on Detached Service.
This week another out-of-town assignment was given the 407th. This time it was to assist in the repairing of a P-39 at Columbus, Ohio.

So to Columbus last Monday went S/Sgt Donald Louie, Cpls Henry Mar, Din Lew, John R. Ung, Kenneth Mah, Pfc’s John Chuck, Gim Jeong, and Pvt Louie Woon. The officer in Charge was W.O.T.A. Egnoski.

…..Shades of One Wing Low! A rash of ocarina and tonette amateur players has broken out in the squadron…..to date at least seven feverish GI’s, suddenly stricken with this musical disease…and have filled the barracks with weird and unearthly sounds…mostly during the dark of night. Nightly they congregate in small groups and proceed to do what they termed practicing, bringing out their “directions for playing” charts….Their ears deaf to the entreaty of bunk buddies, they wailed and blowed on their miniature instruments.

…..As for the names of these torturers they consist thus far of Cpl John Ung, Sgt Andrew Kan, Cpl Eugene Szeto, Pvt Henry S.Y. Wong, Pfc Harry G King, Cpl Albert F. L. Fong, and Pvt Harry Lim…..

Gung Ho, No. 6, January 28, 1944, said

….Chinese New Year gleanings….Cpl John Ung became the best liked GI in #3 Barracks…on account papa Ung sent him a whole crate of California oranges from Los Angeles…the crate was emptied in less time than you can say 407th….

...and who are those hopeful GI’s who’s been writing to Cpl John Ung’s sisters—and haven’t got any encouraging replies yet?...

After the war Ung returned to Los Angeles.

According to the 1950 census, Ung and his four siblings lived with their parents in Los Angeles at 645 Castelar Street. Ung was an electrician at an aircraft factory.

The date of Ung’s marriage to Lupe has not been found.

Ung passed away on January 2, 2018. An obituary appeared in the Los Angeles Times, January 16, 2018.

Ung, John Richard of Monterey Park, CA, passed away on January 2, 2018. Born to John and Bertha Ung on September 18, 1924 in Los Angeles, CA. He served his country honorably as a Staff Sergeant in both the Army and the Air Force in WWII and the Korean War.

Predeceased by his parents, wife Lupe, sisters Corinne and Violet (Roland) and brothers Ernest (Alice) and Alfred (Lucille). Survived by sister Pamela (Donald) and many loving nieces and nephews. He will be remembered for his kindness and generosity that touched many he loved. Viewing Wednesday, January 17, 2018, 5 to 9 p.m. Funeral service Thursday, January 18, 2018,1:00 p.m. Rose Hills, Memorial Chapel

Ung was laid to rest at Rose Hills Memorial Park.

SACK WAN

Sack Wan was born on September 9, 1915 in New York New York according to his World War II draft card. During his service Wan changed his name. A passenger list said his birthplace was “Lok Yin, Kwangtung, China”.

Eighteen-year-old “Chiu Shu Shew” was aboard the steam ship President Jefferson when it departed Hong Kong on June 9, 1934. The passenger list said he had been with his grandmother, Tsang Shee, at 91 Man Ming Road in Canton, China. Wan arrived at Seattle, Washington on June 27, 1934 and was admitted that day. His Chinese Exclusion Act case file number was 7030/225. Wan’s final destination was to Ng Yui Fun, a friend, at 20 Mott Street in New York Chinatown.

Wan has not yet been found in the 1940 United States census.

On October 16, 1940 Wan signed his draft card. His address was 711 Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn. Later it was crossed out and replaced with 21 Mott Street in Manhattan’s Chinatown. Wan’s descriptions five feet ten inches, 155 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

Wan enlisted on January 14, 1943 according to his veteran’s file. Two weeks later Wan officially changed his name from Shu Shew Chiu and became a naturalized citizen.

Wan was on page 74 of Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993. In the Shadow of the Tiger listed Wan and his hometown in 1945 on page 217.

Sack Wan.…..Brooklyn, New York

The squadron’s publication, Gung Ho, No. 2, December 31, 1943, said

Come Out Soon, Fellers!
As 1943 draws to a close and 1944 comes over the horizon, a small number of our personnel are confined at the station hospital for various sicknesses. They include Sgt Sack Wan, S/Sgt Norman Lerenman (attached), Cpl H.L. Hachett (attached), Pvts Herbert J. Lee, Jan W. Wong, Harry Gin, S/Sgt Ton Lum and Cpl Benson K. Lee.

To these buddies goes our greetings for the New Year, and hearty wishes for their early recovery.

Wan was discharged on January 9, 1946 and returned to New York City.

Wan traveled to China and married Mai Fong in Canton on September 11, 1946 according to hand-written notes on the passenger list. The couple stayed with a friend, Kwan Lung, at 77 Connaught Road in Hong Kong. Wan and his wife were aboard the ship General M.C. Meigs when it departed Hong Kong on December 21, 1946. They arrived at San Francisco on January 16, 1947 and spent some time with Lee Lam at 1015 Stockton Street in San Francisco.

According to the 1950 census, Wan, his wife, daughter, Lorraine, and son, Stanley, lived in Manhattan at 118 Avenue D. Wan was a waiter at a luncheonette.

The 1953 Manhattan city directory listed Wan at 118 Avenue D. In 1960 he was at 56 Mott Street in Chinatown.

Wan passed away on December 9, 2002. The Social Security Death Index said his last residence was at Glen Oaks, Queens, New York.

HONG S. WEE

Hong Shew Wee was born on October 5, 1922 in Canton, China according to his World War II draft card. A passenger list said “Toyshan, Kwangtung, China” was his birthplace. Wee’s naturalization petition said his birthplace was “Fun Hing Village, Mit Chong District, Canton, China”.

Thirteen-year-old “Shew Hong Wee” was aboard the steam ship President Taft when it departed Hong Kong on June 3, 1936. The passenger list said he had been with his mother, Yee Shee, at “Bay Chung, Toyshan, Kwangtung, China”. Wee arrived at San Francisco, California on June 23, 1936 and admitted on July 20, 1936. His final destination was to Kit Chung Yee, a friend, at 717 Grant Avenue in San Francisco.

Wee has not been found in the 1940 United States census.

On June 30, 1942 Wee signed his draft card. His San Francisco address was 12 1/2 Ross Alley. He worked at the stationery store, Schwabacher-Frey Company. Wee’s description was five feet five inches, 120 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

Wee enlisted on December 31, 1942.

Wee was on page 74 of Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993. In the Shadow of the Tiger listed W and his hometown in 1945 on page 217.

Hong S. Wee.…..San Francisco, California

In the book he appeared in the squadron fold-out photograph between pages 54 and 55.

The squadron’s publication, Gung Ho, No. 1, December 25, 1943, said

...By the way, some of you lucky guys who’ve just returned from furloughs: see S/Sgt Hong S. Wee or Cpl James G. Jay in the Orderly Room right away about getting your ration money. It’s for the good of your own pocketbook! ...

Gung Ho, No. 2, December 31, 1943, said

…And before we forget to remember, here’s some cuff notes from our Xmas shingdig [sic] last week….who but S/Sgt Wee would keep not only one but two of his lady friends waiting for him to show up at the party?…

Gung Ho, No. 5, January 21, 1944, said

…And now for a few bits of this ’n that gleaned from faraway N’York, where a few of the squadron EM spent a weekend that just couldn’t be called quiet….one group, the one that did the most running around, included none other than M/Sgt Floyd Sam, S/Sgt Hong S. Wee, and Pvt Woo K. Leung. Now, Leung was a NY Chinatownian, but Wee and Sam had never been to America’s #1 town before, and wanted to see what NY was all about…..

…They started out Saturday noon with only themselves, but when dinnertime came the party numbered 18 people…with enuf gals for all the boys present…Sgt Wee found himself in a predicament when he was introduced to two gals…and they were twins! He couldn’t make up his mind whether to take Janet or Muriel…so he escorted both..and was pleased as Punch…whiel [sic] Pvt Leung took care of ze third sis, Eleanor….but Sgt Sam came into the picture, and Wee had to relinquish Muriel….

….While frolicking in a nite club, all that stood between Wee and the La Conga line was another Orange Blossom…..now he is advertising for an instructor to show him how to get in the groove, skin the cat, hop it up, and jive it down…..Whee, Wee!……

…..At a bowling session the party took two alleys…and Wee and Sam vied in showing the maximum of their pin rolling skill…the gals oh’d and ah’d as they rolled up strikes and spares…while Pvt Leung and Eleanor retired to a far corner and had themselves a conversation….no, it wan’t about the weather…

….Thus it went on…there were dinners and shows and sightseeing…the trio on the loose met many persons, including Donaldina Lew, lyric soprano from San Francisco’s Chinatown, singing in a Times Square nitery; and Helena Kuo, Chinese author and lecturer….

Gung Ho, No. 8, February 11, 1944, said Staff Sergeant Wee was presented the Good Conduct Ribbon by Captain E.F. Brown.

....Pvt Wing S. Wong is doing okay with a gal named Jinx....so are S/Sgts York M. Kao and Hong S. Wee with their dancing lessons at ze Loretto...with such good and willing teachers as Mickey and Helen ’n a few other Lorrettoites....

Gung Ho, No. 12, March 10, 1944, said

….Glimpses: ...S/Sgt Hong S. Wee perpetually blowing smoke-rings....but good ones....

Gung Ho, No. 14, March 24, 1944,

….Almost half of the male customers at the Dayton Skateland t’other not-so-blue Monday were 407th EM...yassuh....’twas free nite for servicemen for one thing....and there were plenty of gals for another thing....Some fancy skaters we’ve got, tho....Pvt Guey S Yep, who could roll backward or forward or cut figure 8’s with the greatest of ease....or free-and-easy rollers like Sgt Mon K Fong and Pvt Kay W Chin....or a model of nonchalance like S/Sgt Hong S Wee, who does it with both hands in his pockets....Pfc Chong A Fong [sic] chose the backward steps....while just a mere tyro was Pvt William Wong, who stayed on the outer circle most of the time....it’s safer anyhow....

Gung Ho, No. 22, July 22, 1944, said

....We started a Bingo game of our own t’other nite..with Hong S. Wee & Andy Kan walking away with the coveted cigarette lighters...The next eve at the theater our boys played more bingo...& grabbed 7 out of 12 prizes...

Gung Ho, No. 23, August 5, 1944, said

.....T’other eve in a nearby village Hong S Wee, having tire trouble with his jeep, found a Chinese shop where he could make the repair...he approached a crewman & tried out the Mandarin he’s been learning, clarifying doubtful pronunciation with appropriate gestures...The repairer looked blank... We tried harder gesticulated more vigorously...Then the other broke out in a volley of Cantonese....

Wee was discharged on January 18, 1946 according to his naturalization petition. He returned to San Francisco and married Victoria Lee on June 28, 1947.

According to the 1950 census, Wee, his wife, and son, Allen, were San Francisco residents at 1348 Leavenworth Street. Wee was a bookkeeper at an antique shop.

The 1959 San Francisco city directory listed Wee at 1390 Pacific Avenue.

Wee became a naturalized citizen on September 3, 1963. He changed his name from Shew Hong Lee to David Hong Shew Wee. His address was 1354 Pacific Street in San Francisco.

Wee passed away on July 14, 1980 in San Francisco. His obituary appeared in the San Francisco Examiner, July 18, 1980.

Wee, David H.S. in San Francisco, July 14, 1980; beloved husband of Victoria; loving father of Sharon; devoted son of Ed; devoted brother of Leong John Yuet Gum, Yuet Kuen and Yuet Foon; loving godfather of Elaine Lai; native of Toishan Province, Canton, China; aged 57 years; Past National President and National Advisor of Lee On Dong Association: Past Commander. Veterans of Foreign Wars-Chinatown Post 4618; Past Director Toishan Ning Yung Benevolent Association; Past Director Chinese Hospital; member and benefactor to many other organizations; served as public accountant in Chinese community and U.S. Government over 35 years; Mr. Wee was a highly prominent and respected member of the Chinese community.

Visitation services, 7 p.m., Sunday, July 20. Funeral services 1 p.m.. Monday, July 21, 1980, at Green Street Mortuary, 649 Green Street, SF. Interment, Greenlawn Cemetery, Colma. Donations may be made to the Chinese Hospital.

ROBERT S. WEKO

Robert Stephen Weko was born on January 12, 1926 in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania according to his World War II draft card.

The 1930 United States census counted Weko as the eighth of nine children born to John and Katherine, both Ukrainian immigrants. They were Huntingdon residents at 1000 Penn Street. Weko’s father was a railroad laborer.

The 1940 census counted the Weko family in Huntingdon at 1002 Penn Street.

In 1944 Weko graduated from Huntingdon Area High School.

The Argus yearbook

Weko signed his draft card on January 12, 1944. His address was the same. He was described as five feet five inches, 135 pounds, with brown eyes and hair.

Weko enlisted in the Army Air Corps on March 7, 1944.

Weko was on page 74 of Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993. In the Shadow of the Tiger listed W and his hometown in 1945 on page 217.

Robert S. Weko….. Huntington [sic], Pennsylvania

In the book Weko was mentioned on pages v, vi, viii, and 16. He appeared in photographs on pages 63, 66 and the squadron fold-out photograph between pages 54 and 55.

The Huntingdon Daily News, June 14, 1945, published excerpts from Weko’s letter. The end of the article said his basic training was at Miami Beach, Florida. At Truax Field, Madison, Wisconsin, he took a radio mechanic course.

“I didn’t get seasick but I nearly did. We stopped off at (censored) and it was really beautiful country. We couldn’t get off the boat although we were there for quite some time.

“We also were in India some time and I finally ‘chiseled” a pass from our first sergeant and went to Calcutta. I was told that it is one of India’s most modern cities—but I was in for a surprise.

“Nearly all the streets were very narrow and all you could see on either side of the streets were shops and shops crowded closely together. All up and down the streets walk Indians, do land young, carrying baskets on their heads. Their clothing consisted of nothing more than dirty rags wrapped about their bodies and tied—somehow but how is beyond me. None of them wear shoes. They herd cows and pigs right up the street. There were hundreds of beggars, young and old, asking for ‘box’ which means gift or present.

“My two buddies and I went into a fairly nice shop to get a few souvenirs but they charged us about twice the actual value of the article, so we got together and had to work on the ‘salesman.’ We set our price, took out the money, and flashed it before his eyes. We then walked out of the shop. We were hardly out of the shop when he grabbed us by the shoulder and gave in to our price. It’s the only way to do business with them because they know we have the money and they’ll do anything under the sun to get it.

“The climate in India was very hot during the day and at night it got damp and we had to sleep under blankets. We slept under mosquito nets at night and we are usually wakened at night by the howling of jackets and hyenas around the camp.

“While I was on guard duty one night in our mess hall, the screen door banged a few times, so I took the lantern to find the trouble. There in front of the door were footprints similar to those of a dog... they were a jackals. My hair was on end because we're told never to trust them.

“We flew over the ‘hump’ into China. It was really cold up there and we had to rely on oxygen.

“The Chinese try to buy cigarettes from us and offered us $13.00 in American gold for them. We can get $50.00 for fountain pens but who wants to sell them when they are so precious to us?

“I went to town one evening and had a ride in a rickshaw just for the fun of it.

“This Chinese money really puzzles a guy. A candle here costs $150.00 in Chinese money and 30¢ in ours.

“They surely take advantage of GI’s here. A $100 Chinese note is worth $.20 in our money and they have down to $10.00 in Chinese money. The rate of exchange may be 500 to 1 one day and maybe 650 to 1 the next, so we usually get ‘rooked’ in the long run. 500 to one means the five $100 bills in Chinese money equals $1.00 in our money and so on.

“The Chinese really like to steal our clothes and even though they know what happens they still do it. They bite the dust on the spot if they’re caught and I’ve seen them afterwards. What a sight!

“The weather here is no good at all. The sun shines maybe once every two days and for about half an hour. The food is really lousy—rice and rice with plenty of spinach (grass to me) and water buffalo. Toilet articles, cigarette, candy, and even stationery are very hard to get. That’s why I write so small.”

Weko was discharged on April 12, 1946 according to his veteran’s file.

The 1950 census said Weko lived in Penbrook, Pennsylvania at 2737 Booser Street. He was a railroad brakeman.

The Evening News (Harrisburg, Pennsylvania), September 29, 1952, reported Weko’s marriage to Dorothy Jean Sachs.

Weko’s son, Thomas, wrote The Politicizing Presidency: The White House Personnel Office, 1948–1994 (1995). He dedicated the book to his parents and children.

The Huntingdon Daily News, November 11, 1995, said Weko finally received his China War Memorial medal.

After some 50 years of waiting, Steve Weko of Malvern, formerly of Huntingdon, has received the China War Memorial Decoration awarded by the government of the Republic of China. The medal was sent to him by the Chinese Embassy through the 14th Air Force Association, of which he is a life member. ... the Chinese government ... announced that all members of the 14th Air Force Association of “The Flying Tigers” would receive the K’ang Chan-Nien Cheng, as the decoration is known in Chinese. Weko received his medal and ribbon on Nov. 9 ...

Weko passed away on August 31, 2004. His obituary appeared in the Philadelphia Inquirer, September 9, 2004.

Stephen Weko Manufacturer’s agent, 78
Stephen Weko, 78, of Malvern, a retired manufacturer’s representative, died of cancer Aug. 31 at home.

Mr. Weko grew up the son of Ukrainian immigrants in Huntingdon, Pa. In recent years he had visited his ancestral home in Ukraine.

During World War II, he served with the “Flying Tiger” squadron in the Army Air Forces in China.

After his discharge, he was a brakeman for the Reading Railroad. In 1952, he married Dorothy Sachs, whom he had met at a roller-skating rink near Huntingdon. After earning an associate’s degree from Temple University, he worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad in Philadelphia and for an electronics firm before becoming a manufacturer’s representative in 1971.

After retiring in the early 1990s, he was a volunteer at Paoli Memorial Hospital and then was a part-time custodian at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Berwyn, where he was “Mr. Steve” to children in the church nursery school, his son Thomas said. Mr. Weko was active in Democratic political campaigns in East Whiteland Township and was past president of the University of Pittsburgh.

HERMAN J. WILLHITE

Herman James Willhite was born on November 4, 1906 in Curtis, Wisconsin according to his World War II draft card.

The 1910 United States census said Willhite was the youngest of five siblings. Their mother, Mary, was a widow and farmer. They lived in Hoard, Wisconsin. The same information was in the 1920 census.

Willhite married Alice Weinhold in Lyon, Minnesota on December 22, 1926.

Willhite and his wife have not been found in the 1930 census.

According to the 1940 census Willhite had seven children from ages two to twelve. He was a carpenter. The family resided in Rosemount, Minnesota.

On October 16, 1940 Willhite signed his draft card. His address was RFD Number 1 in South St. Paul, Minnesota. He was described as five feet eight inches, 190 pounds, with blue eyes and blonde hair.

The date of his enlistment is not known.

Willhite was not listed in Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993 or In the Shadow of the Tiger.

The squadron’s publication, Gung Ho, No. 2, December 31, 1943, said

Echoes of the Xmas Party.
‘Twas the night before Christmas—and two hundred GI’s marched noisily into Dayton’s Chungking restaurant, where, in an atmosphere of warmth and good cheer, the squadron made Yuletide fun and frolic. The restaurant was closed to accomodate [sic] this party.

Two hundred fried chicken dinners—and all paid for by the squadron fund—met the hungry gaze of the GI’s, and the bones were quickly picked clean. H. Jim Wing, Chungking’s proprietor, beamed with pride at the thought that his chef’s cuisine delighted his brethren’s palate.

But before the food was served there was a round of entertainment, beginning with the singing of Christmas carols, led by Cpls Raymond K. Fong and Wilfred R. Eng. Then come some shorts acts and dancing and singing, provided through the efforts of the post special service officer. The acts by “Miss Joyce,” especially, drew hearty applause.

There was a sprinkling of feminine guests at the party—wives and friends. Officers of the 407th who were able to attend included Capt and Mrs. Wilhite [sic], Capt Brown, Lt Byrne and Mr. Egnoski. Also Capt Yuen of the Chinese Air Force, currently at Wright Field.

Gung Ho, No. 10, February 25, 1944, said

....Just one week after the 1st/Sgt became the proud father of a baby girl, Capt Wilhite [sic] also became a father....of a baby boy!...When Capt Wilhite was our Engineering Officer here in the 407th he and 1st/Sgt had calculated the times their respective “bundles from Heaven” would arrive....the strange part of the story is that they were correct in deciding on one week’s difference...1st/Sgt Chan’s baby was born on Lincoln’s birthday....Capt Wilhite’s on Washington’s birthday...To Capt and Mrs Wilhite, our sincere congratulations...Congrats also to Cpl Harry Q. Wong...who received word Sunday that he too is a father....a healthy bouncing 9-lb of baby girl....This has certainly been a busy period of ye stork....

After the war Willhite returned to Minnesota.

The 1950 census counted Willhite, his wife and daughter in St. Paul Park, Minnesota at 1309 3rd Street.

Willhite passed away on April 7, 1983 according to Find a Grave. The Social Security Death Index said July 1983. He was laid to rest at Cottage Grove Cemetery.

NG Y. WING

Ng You Wing was born on December 22, 1906 in Oakland, California according to his World War II draft card. His family name was Ng.

The 1910 United States census counted four-year-old “Wing You Ng” as the fourth of five siblings. The poor quality of the census image makes it difficult to read the names of his parents. They lived with his paternal grandparents in San Francisco on the 700 block of Pacific Street.

The 1920 census said Wing’s mother, “Waon Shee”, was a widow. His paternal grandfather, “Wone Ng”, an undertaker, was head of the household. Their San Francisco address was 769 Pacific Street.

Wing has not been found in the 1930 and 1940 censuses.

Wing signed his draft card twice on October 16, 1940. “Ng Wing Soo” was an alias. His address was 168 South Cliffwood Avenue in Brentwood Heights, California. He appeared to be a servant. Wing’s description was five feet two inches, 135 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

Wing enlisted on May 28, 1943.

Wing was on page 74 of Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993. In the Shadow of the Tiger listed Wing and his hometown in 1945 on page 217.

Ng Y. Wing.…..San Francisco, California

The squadron’s publication, Gung Ho, No. 11, March 3, 1944, said

....The lot of an umpire is a hard one....Pvt Ing [sic] Y Wing learned that the hard way....he ump’d a friendly little game of softball t’other day and almost got mobbed....so he has graciously declined the honor of refereeing the fracas in our intra-barracks league....

Gung Ho, No. 12, March 10, 1944, said

.....Some Dee-troitism:... At least 3 EM’s almost froze in last weekend’s blizzard there....[on] account they didn’t don their GI overcoats....for Pvts Ralph Wong and Ng Y Wing and Pfc Henry Hsiang it was their initial reconnaissance to the Wolverine state’s big town... For hours they dodged the icy wind and swirling snow looking the place over.... Pvt Ng Y. Wing wasn’t hungry, so ordered a light breakfast of liver and scrambled eggs and fried potatoes and grapefruit juice and coffee and toast and jelly..whew

Gung Ho, No. 13, March 17, 1944, said

....More on diminutive Pvt Ralph Wong....He’s taking bowling lessons from Pvt Ng Y Wing un [sic] the hope of improving on his initial score of—34?....An interested spectator was Cpl Zach Wong....who used to play with the Angelus Bowling team in Los Angeles, Calif....Cpl Wong bowls a mere 279....

Gung Ho, No. 23, August 5, 1944, said

.....Did Johnny Luong [sic] fly out of bed fast t’other morn when he found a 1 1/2 foot s-n-a-k-e was sharing his bunk! ... Ng Y Wing gave the reptile the coup de grace..both swore it was a cobra...

Wing was aboard the ship General A. W. Greely when it departed Calcutta, India. He arrived at New York on December 5, 1946. Later that month Wing was discharged and he returned to California.

On April 18, 1947 Wing began his travel from San Francisco bound for China. He married Tung Yee Wong in Canton on August 19, 1947.

The couple was aboard the ship General William H. Gordon when it departed Hong Kong on November 30, 1947. They arrived at San Francisco on December 17, 1947. Wing’s San Francisco address was 852 Jackson Street.

Wing has not yet been found in the 1950 census. His first daughter was born in 1948 and the second in 1952.

Wing’s wife became a naturalized citizen on March 22, 1955. Their address was 711 Pacific Street, Apt. 317, in San Francisco.

Wing claimed his Social Security benefits on October 4, 1971.

Wing passed away on April 30, 2001. His obituary appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle, May 4, 2001.

Ng, Wing Y.—Also known as Ng You Wing. In Burlingame, April 30, 2001. Resident of Daly City. Loving husband of Toni Ng; cherished father of Doreen Lee and her husband Kingston, Louise Pena and her husband Preston, Patricia McAuley and her husband Joseph, Linda Ng and her husband David; adored grandfather of Christian and Angela Lee, and Anthony Wing McAuley; beloved brother of Doris Dere. His love of life and selflessness were an inspiration to all who knew him, and he will remain forever in their hearts.

Friends and family are invited to attend Funeral Services at Crosby N. Gray, 2 Park Road in Burlingame, on Saturday, May 5, 2001, 1:00pm. There will be a private inurnment.

ALFRED G. WONG

Alfred Gum Wong was born on May 10, 1924 in Walnut Grove, California according to his World War II draft card.

Wong in the 1930 and 1940 United State censuses has not been verified.

On June 30, 1942 Wong signed his draft card. His address was 45 South Center Street in Stockton, California. He worked at Lee’s Cafe. Wong’s description was five feet two inches, 128 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

At some point Wong enlisted.

Wong was on page 74 of Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993. In the Shadow of the Tiger listed Wong and his hometown in 1945 on page 217.

Alfred G. Wong.…..San Francisco, California

In the book he appeared in the squadron fold-out photograph between pages 54 and 55.

The squadron’s publication, Gung Ho, No. 10, February 25, 1944, said

….Pfc Alfred G. Wong’s haircut is a sight to behold!…the PX barbar [sic] musta been mad at him or sump’n……

After the war Wong reenlisted in the Army at Sioux Falls, South Dakota on December 11, 1945. His photograph appeared in The Memoir 1947 (see group 54) which was published by the Chick Char Club in San Francisco.

The 1950 census said Wong was a grocer store clerk in Vallejo, California on Highway 40.

Wong passed away on November 11, 1954. His death was reported by United Press in the San Jose Evening News, November 12, 1954.

Travis Airman Dies
Folsum (UP)—A Travis Air Force Base enlisted man, S/Sgt. Alfred Gum Wong, was killed late yesterday when he lost control of his auto and crashed into a truck on U.S. 50, 10 miles east of here. The Highway Patrol said the driver of the Teichert Construction Co. truck involved in the accident was not injured.

In the San Francisco Chronicle, November 12, 1954, the Associated Press said

Sergeant Killed
Folsom, Nov. 11 (AP)—Sergeant Alfred Gum Wong, attached to the 413th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, Travis Air Force Base, was killed eight miles east of here today in an auto accident.

The Sacramento Bee, November 15, 1954, said

In Clarksville, El Dorado County, November 11, 1954, Sergeant Alfred G. Wong, son of Thomas and brother of Mrs. Beatrice Jeong of Vallejo, Solano County, California, aged 30 years. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM tomorrow in Hansen-Bryan Funeral Home, Suisun, Solano County, with interment in Golden Gate National Cemetery, San Bruno.

Wong was laid to rest at Golden Gate National Cemetery. almost three months earlier Wong reenlisted in the Air Force on August 24, 1954. According to the National Cemetery Interment Control Form he served with the 413th Fighter Interceptor Squadron. Next of kin was his father, Thomas Wong, at 130 Lincoln Highway in Vallejo, California.

ARTHUR T. WONG

Arthur Theodore Wong was born on March 7, 1925 in North Bend, Oregon according to his World War II draft card.

The 1930 United States census counted Wong as the third of five siblings. Their parents were Lee Hong Wong, a cook, and Jill. The lived in Yreka, California.

In the 1940 census Wong, his father and older brother, Robert, resided in Klamath Falls, Oregon at 619 Main Street. The census said they lived, in 1935, at Placer, California.

The Evening Herald (Klamath Falls, Oregon), May 4, 1942, said Wong was one of 235 seniors to be graduated on May 20.

1942 El Rodeo yearbook

On March 8, 1943 Wong signed his draft card the day after his birthday. His address was 1243 Jackson Street in San Francisco, California. He was described as five feet five inches, 125 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

Wong enlisted on April 24, 1943.

Wong was on page 74 of Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993. In the Shadow of the Tiger listed Wong and his hometown in 1945 on page 217.

Arthur T. Wong.…..San Francisco, California

The squadron’s publication, Gung Ho, No. 7, February 4, 1944, said private First Class Wong was promoted to Corporal.

Gung Ho, No. 10, February 25, 1944, said

MEN OF THE 407TH—
MAKE MUSIC? CAN DO!
The 407th EM may never make history, but, by the beard of Confucius, they are determined to make music.

For several months now certain jive-loving squadron EM have been tooting their saxophones and strumming their string instruments individually in the peace and quiet (!) of their respective barracks after the sun goes down. Most of these music-loving souls hailed from San Francisco’s Chinatown, where the strident rhapsodies of old Canton vied with the jazzing of Duke Ellington to make life a wee bit trying to the older generation.

When some of these boys marched off to war and joined the 407th some months ago, their instruments came along with their GI duds. Three members who had played together on the same band in SF Chinatown found themselves side by side again. They yearned mightily to be in the groove once more, but the opportunities were lacking, and certain needed instruments were scarcer that the eggs of an ancient turtle.

But this week the glimmer of a 407th orchestra began to take shape. Ten EM—8 of them Californians—decided that a certain amount of jiving was possible with the material at hand. After some efforts, a set of drums materialized. And already available were saxophones, clarinet, and violins. Plus a ready-made voxcalist [sic] Raymond K. Fong, of Stockton, Calif., who has had radio and stage singing experience. Other members of this aggregation of celestial cacophonist include:

… The remaining two are string instrumentalists, Cpl Arthur T Wong is a steel guitar strummer of no mean ability. Since most native Chinese musical instruments are of the string variety, Wong may have inherited his dexterity.

….Pvt Guey S. Yep and Cpl Arthur T. Wong sure got a couple of real hotfoots t’other day….did they hurt?…Would four lighted matches in your soles hurt?…they had to go on sick call the next morn!……..

The San Francisco Chronicle, March 3, 1944, said

Chinatown in Ohio: Corporal William J. Hoy, former editor of the Chinese Digest and the Chinese Press here, is now editing “Gung Ho,” a weekly paper published by the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron at Patterson Field, Fairfield, Ohio. The squadron comprises men of Chinese descent who are bring trained as airplane mechanics.

Many of its members come from San Francisco’s Chinatown, and last week they formed the 10-piece 407th Band, six musicians of which learned their scales within a stone’s throw of Grant avenue. Three of them, Privates First Class Elwin W. Ong, Henry Leong, and Stanley W. Tom, used to play with the 50-piece Cathay Band, and Corporal Albert Fong was a member of Chinatown’s drum, fife and bugle corps. The other San Franciscans are Corporal Arthur Wong, and Corporal Hoy himself, who plays the mandolin. The band’s theme song os “Chinatown, My Chinatown.”

After the war Wong returned to California.

The 1948 Blue and Gold yearbook, of the University of California at Berkeley, said Wong was a member of the Chinese Students Club. The 1950 yearbook said Wong was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers. Wong graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Engineering on June 16, 1950.

Wong was listed in the American Society of Civil Engineers Directory for 1951.

On February 4, 1951 Wong married Lily Wong at Berkeley, California.

Wong passed away on December 14, 2016 in Fremont, California. His obituary appeared in the East Bay Times, February 19, 2017, and was repeated in Tri-City Voice, February 21, 2017, and Legacy.

Arthur Theodore Wong
Mar. 7, 1925–Dec. 14, 2016
Resident of El Cerrito Arthur Theodore Wong, 91, passed away, Wednesday, December 14, 2016, at an assisted care home in Fremont, California. Arthur was born March 7, 1925 to Lee Hong Wong and Jew Shee in North Bend, Oregon, third of six children. He graduated from UC Berkeley with a Bachelor’s of Science in 1950.

Arthur served in WWII as an airplane mechanic for a special US Army unit, the famous “Flying Tigers.” He met his wife, Lily Wong, at the steps of the Campanile at UC Berkeley and they married in 1951 in Berkeley, California.

Shortly thereafter, Arthur began a long career as a civil engineer for private companies as well as for the US Government and cities in Northern California. His last 20 years prior to retirement, he worked for Bechtel on nuclear power plants and airports in Hawaii and Saudi Arabia. Arthur loved to spend time with his family, working on his investments, and traveling the world.

Arthur is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lily Wong; along with three children; Gail Wong and John Koppe of Seattle, Washington, Stephanie and Gary Louie of Fremont, California, and Scott and Helen Wong of Fremont, California; 7 grandchildren, Ian Koppe, Matthew Koppe, Brandon Louie, Cory Louie and wife Chelsea, Kyle Louie, Rachel Wong, and Courtney Wong; two siblings, Robert Wong of El Cerrito, California and Helen Gee of Walnut Creek, California; and many other loving nieces, nephews, and relatives.

Memorial services for Arthur Wong will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, February 25, 2017, at Berkeley Chinese Community Church on 2117 Acton Street, Berkeley, California. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Kimber Hills Academy, NILD Scholarship Fund (National Institute of Learning Development), 39700 Mission Blvd., Fremont, CA 94539.

BOT L. WONG

Bot Lee Wong was born on April 19, 1922 in Augusta, Georgia according to his World War II draft card.

The 1930 United States census counted Wong was the oldest of five children born to “Woey To Wong”, a grocery merchant, and “Ching Shee”. They were Augusta residents at 1341 Railroad Avenue.

In the 1940 census Wong’s older brother, “Poy Fat”, was running the grocery store. The brothers had five younger siblings. Their mother was head of the household. The family lived at 1249 University Place in Augusta.

On June 30, 1942 Wong signed his draft card. His Augusta address was 1249 Railroad Avenue. He was described as five feet eight inches, 125 pounds, with black eyes and hair.

Wong enlisted at Fort McPherson, Atlanta, Georgia on April 24, 1943.

Wong was on page 74 of Chinese America: History and Perspectives 1993. In the Shadow of the Tiger listed Wong and his hometown in 1945 on page 217.

Bot L. Wong.…..Augusta, Georgia

In the book he appeared in photographs on page 20, 42 and the squadron fold-out photograph between pages 54 and 55.

The squadron’s publication, Gung Ho, No. 8, February 11, 1944, said

....Now that we’ve seen the pics for ourselves we can understand whys many GI’s wanted intros to Pfc Bot L. Wong’s twin sisters...yassuh......twins and cute too...and what’s more, they’re down in the deep south—down Georgia way...

Gung Ho, No. 9, February 18, 1944, said

....Seen standing on a Dayton street corner waiting for the dates who didn’t come to dinner were Sgt William Toy and Pfc Bot L. Wong....

Wong appeared in a photograph published in the East Liverpool Review (Ohio), February 22, 1944. The caption read

The intricacies of engine repair are quickly grasped by the Chinese lads. Pfc. Woo Niy, Houston, Tex., center, was a student as a civilian, Pfc. Bob [sic] Wong, Astoria [sic], Ga., right, a grocer.

Gung Ho, No. 12, March 10, 1944, said

407th In The News.
This past week or so has seen men of the squadron making some front page news in at least two papers.

First, the Illinois State Journal (Springfield, Ill.) gave an entire page in its issue of February 28th to pictures of 407th EM at work. There were 8 photographs in the full-page spread and showed such EM as Koonwah Lim, Sing Y. Yee, Wilbert Chung, Woo Niy, Bot Wong, and Wong Yuey at work and training.

Gung Ho, No. 13, March 17, 1944, said

.....Pfc Bot L. Wong is giving a few pointers on dancing to Pvt Seam H. Wong....with Cpl Homer KH Fong [sic] as a velly interested spectator....

After the war Wong returned to Augusta. Wong is on the U.S. Army Air Forces Final Registered List of the Chinese American World War II Veterans Recognition Project.

The 1946 Augusta city directory listed Wong at 1249 University Place. He was a clerk at Wong Grocery & Meats.

The Courier-Journal (Louisville, Kentucky), November 6, 1946, said Wong and Verna Mae Woo Sang were issued a marriage license.

The 1949 Augusta directory said Wong was a grocer who lived at 1101 Harrison Street.

According to the 1950 census Wong, proprietor of a grocery store, was at the same address. He and his wife had two children, Kenneth and Judith.

Wong was a donor to the Flying Tiger Historical Organization.

Wong passed away on December 22, 1997. His obituary appeared in the Augusta Chronicle, December 24, 1997.

Wong—Mr. Bot Wong, 75, of 4483 Dogwood Way, Evans, Ga., died Monday, Dec. 22, 1997, at his residence.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 27, 1997, at Platt’s Belair Road Chapel with Dr. Rodger Murchison officiating. Burial will follow in Westover Memorial Park.

Mr. Wong, a native of Richmond County, was a retired grocery merchant. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, serving with the 407th Air Service Group Division of the Flying Tigers. He was a member of the First Baptist Church and the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Augusta.

Survivors include his wife, Verna (Mary) Mae Wong of Evans, Ga.; two sons, Kenneth Lee Wong of Charlotte, N.C., and James William Wong of Martinez, Ga.; two daughters, Judith-Wong Loo Lilburn, Ga., and Peggy Ann Wong of Evans, Ga.; son-in-law, Tommy Loo of Lilburn, Ga.; two grandchildren, Jennifer Loo and Alan Loo, both of Lilburn; three sisters, Mamie Lee of Castro Valley, Calif., Molly Lew of Costa Mesa, Calif., and Martha Lam of Martinez, Ga.; one sister-in-law, Rose Wong of Augusta; 17 nieces and nephews, and devoted friend, Warren Lamar Morris.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 26, 1997, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Augusta, 3500 Walton Way, Augusta, GA 30909; the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, 548 Walker St., Augusta, GA 30901; or the American Heart Association, 246 Davis Road, Martinez, GA 30907. Platt’s Funeral Home, 337 N. Belair Road, Evans, GA 860-6166.

Wong was laid to rest at Westover Memorial Park.

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