Gung
Ho was mentioned on pages v, vi, vii, viii, 1, 15, 17, 33, 75, 76, 221
and 222 of In the Shadow of the Tiger. Available issues were
reproduced on pages 75 and from 77 to 205.
GUNG HO
No. 1, December 25, 1943
Page 1
Another Star Is Born
[illustration]
A Message from the C. O.
TO THE 407TH SERVICE SQUADRON
The Commanding Officer wishes to express his sincere thanks to the men of the 407th for their very fine cooperation and loyalty since the activation of this Squadron.
GUNG HO meaning Work Together should be symbolic of this organization and it is my desire that the men use this paper as an outlet for their thoughts in promoting the welfare of this Squadron. The road ahead will be long and hard and it is imperative that this organization be solidified to such an extent that it will be impregnable.
I realize that you have many problems and I want you to feel free to discuss them with me at any time. I have full confidence in you and my Non-Commissioned Officers and it is my desire that full cooperation be displayed at all times.
The Officers of this organization join me in extending CHRISTMAS GREETINGS. BEST WISHES for the New Year. MARK T. MOOTY, Captain, A. C. Commanding
Page 2
“CHOP SUEY”
Wotcha know, O son of Confucius?
…Our lichee nut award for the busiest man of the week goes to Cpl Mack Pong. Need no explain why? He’s our mail orderly, see, and this is the week the Xmas mail and holiday presents roll in by the jeep-ful, see? Ergo, Mack is beginning to look like the hunchback of Notre Dame from carrying so many mail bags. But, [w]here’s our Xmas packages, Mack ?
... Mild-tempered Pvt Woo Leung had his equilibrium shattered the other day,. Reason: “1st Sgt Chan” Woo expostulated, “told me I needed close order drills. Can you imagine me needing drilling? ME, who just came out of the Infantry?” ....... enough 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! ...
...Sgt Lawrence Fong was caught staying in the barracks all day the other day...But he was not goldbricking by any means...he was plenty busy getting everybody’s duffle bags stencilled, that’s why....Calling all GI’s who are musicians and who have instruments with them, such as harmonicas, saxophones, etc: how about getting together for a jam session in the dayroom? See us about arrangements, will you?.........
...Talk about happy smiling faces, you should see the countenances of those lucky boys who returned this week from furlough...How about that, Sgts Andrew Lee, Wm Quan, Cpls Fong Lee, Wilfred Eng, Tonley Ju, Mon K. Fong, Benson Lee, Pfc’s Din Lew, Homer Eng, Roland Gee, Howe Jay, Chin Ying, Pvts John J. Lee and Henry Wong (30)?.........
...Greetings to the 4 new men who joined the 407th this week. They are Cpl Eugene Szeto and Pvt Gem Y. Lee of New York, Cpl San Pon of Detroit, and Cpl William J Hoy of San Francisco....and Pfc Hanson Siu was transferred to the 555th Squadron at Springfield, Illinois........
...Talk about getting Xmas cards, Pfc So Tak not only got loads of ’em from females he knows, but also from females he doesn’t know. F’instance, he’d like to know who Naomi and Valentine are. Only clues are that one is from Fairfield, and the other from nearby London....
...Now excuse us while we go over to Barracks 3 and confer with “Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan about the war situation on the Burma Road........
4 GI’s Get Tied in a Knot
Among the GI’s who went on furloughs recently 4 of them came back and reported they have stopped wearing pants. That is, figuratively speaking. What we mean is that these 4 got themselves married—allee samee catchem wife—in various parts of the country.
Pvt Ed Chew married a little miss from Oakland, Calif., while across the bay in San Francisco Pfc Gim Jeong also marched bravely to the alter.
Elsewhere S/Sgt George Wong married Kay Lee of San Antonio, Texas. And S/Sgt James Yee persuaded popular Larraine Lee of Los Angeles to be his Mrs. We always said Jimmy had a persuasive tongue.
We understand both Mrs. Wong and Mrs. Yee will join their husbands here for Christmas.
*****
407th Xmas Dinner.
Almost the entire enlisted personnel of the squadron have signed up for the big Xmas dinner party as this issue goes to press. The dinner will be held at the Chungking restaurant in Dayton, the only Chinese dining place spacious enough to hold such a crowd.
Sgt Jerry Chew did the arrangements, and delicious fried chicken with rice and all the trimmings is promised. What is more, the cost of the dinner will come out of squadron fund. Sgt Chew hopes to have some entertainment for the boys also.
See you in Chungking!
Page 3
Meet the “Gung Ho” Scribes.
The staff of our paper is still being formed as this first issue goes to press, and their names will be announced as they join up. Meanwhile, we take pleasure in introducing the staff members who have helped in getting out our birthday number, and telling something of their background and training.
Cpl YOW RICHARD CHINN, our artist, was trained in drawing and painting, both in China and in this country. Coming to the U. S. in 1923, he attended American grade schools and later studied for two years at the famed Chicago Art Institute. He has worked as a cartoonist and dons commercial drawings, while his oils and watercolors have been exhibited.
Pfc PAOLING DENG, who was responsible for writing most of the Chinese section, was born in China and came to the U. S. 15 years ago. For 4 years to 1942 he studied both fine arts and chemistry at the University of Chicago. As a fine arts man he was worked as commercial illustrator, while as chemist he has been employed as laboratory assistant. During his China days he once served as principal of a school in Shanghai. Right now chemist Deng is assigned to the medical section of our organization, but part of his duties includes lecturing to the medics of other units, giving them the benefit of his chemical knowledge.
Cpl RICHARD E. GEE, who figured out the lettering for this issue, is an 18 year old who was born and bred in San Francisco’s Chinatown , Mecca of the Chinese in the U. S. SFJC was his school, where he took mechanical and civil engineering and ROTC.
Cpl JAMES GIMBO JAY, without whose assistance this issue could not have gotten out in time, is an all-around clerk and machine shop man. He came to this country in 1936 and had his American schooling in New York City. He was in trade school prior to his army induction. He also served several months in the Merchant Marines at Long Island, N. Y.
Pvt YOUNG Q. ARK, born in China, has only been in the U. S. since 1940. In China he attended the famous Poy Ying Middle School in Canton. Pvt Ark had the tough task of printing the characters in the Chinese section, and likewise contributed the verses therein.
*****
What “Gung Ho” Means.
“Gung Ho,” translated into English means Work-Together. It is the name of the Chinese Industrial Cooperatives in Free China, those little plants which manufacture ammunitions and small arms for the use of the Chinese Army. The C. I. C. is one of the most important factor[s] in China’s continued resistance against the Japanese.
“Gung Ho” is also the stirring war cry of Lt. Col. Evans Carlson’s south Pacific commandos. Col. Carlson, who has spent years in China and knows the Chinese language, adopted these two words for his use because of their meaning. Work-Together—words that express the hope and the means whereby the forces of of the United Nations can defeat the Axis powers.
Work-Together—that should be the slogan of the 407th Service Squadron also, for only by working together can the unit function properly and efficiently and achieve the maximum results desired.
So let’s Work-Together!
Gung Ho!
Two Good Men.
Ten days ago the Physical Fitness Dept of the Patterson Field Special Service OfFice conducted a contest to determine the best physically fit soldier on the post. There were contestants from all squadrons and units on the field, including men from the 407th.
This week the results of the contests were announced. Eighteen EM’s were cited as the best physical specimens on the post. And among the 18 were two EM’s from our squadron, Cpl Earl Jung and Pfc Kenneth Wah [sic]. Earl scored 180 points, and Kenneth got 135. These two Tarzans will receive their awards soon.
Page 4
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS
We, the enlisted personnel of the 407th, are proud to present the first issue of what, it is hoped, will be a regular publication.
In its humble way, the “Gung Ho” hopes to be the medium whereby the men of the 407th will get to know the Squadron activities, whether they be curricular, extra-curricular, or otherwise.
The “Gung Ho” will seek to bring about understanding and appreciation of each other’s function and work in the Squadron.
It will seek to create a spirit of fellowship, a real Confucian sense of social harmony, and a sense of community of purpose among the personnel.
The “Gung Ho” will in every way possible record the varied doings of the men of the 407th. In this manner it will be the week to week resume of their life in the organization, jotted down for the information, amusement and benefit of all. Working in their respective sections or departments, it is impossible for most of the men to know what each other is doing or thinking half of the time. This paper will seek to bridge that necessary gap by supplying the most interesting information to all,
And last but not least, the “Gung Ho” will serve as the informal historical record of the 407th, reflecting in its pages the life of its men. You will not find in it anything of a military nature, but if you are interested in learning how “Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan got his great title, or why Pfc So Tak gets so much fan mail, “Gung Ho” will undertake to supply you the answers.
So here’s greetings and good reading as we make our initial bow.
*******
EM’s Return from Detached Service
After a two weeks’ special course in the air service dept at Orlando, Fla., 9 EM’s returned to the 407th this week. The group consisted of T/Sgt Floyd Sam, S/Sgts Henry Wong, James Yee, Ton G. Lum and George Wong, Sgts Donald Y. Louie and Hing B. Lo, Pfcs Koonwah Lim and George M. Shue.
Sgt Louie reported that the Flordia [sic] sunshine gave him a good tan. But Pfc Shue, contrariwise, caught a cold instead.
T/Sgt Sam gave out that several of the boys, namely Lum, Louie, Lo and Lim, had occasion to visit Cypress Garden down yonder. It so happens that this place is our C.O.’s hometown, and the boys seriously thought of invading the latter’s home. But in a case of cold feet caught them and the idea was abandoned.
The boys also visited the movie set where the “Tarzan” pictures are made—and found out how Johnny Weismuller could climb those jungle trees so fast. No, they feel they can climb them just as dextrously.
One of the highlights of the EM’s returning trip was the real Chinese meal they had in Jacksonville. Said Floyd: “We had sea-weed soup, Chinese style chicken, beef and tomatoes, bean cakes, etc. Boy, did we eat!”
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Field, Ohio. Editor Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pfc Paoling Deng; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Cpl Richard E. Gee. Put Young Q. Ark, Pvt Woo K. Leung
GUNG HO
407th Service Squadron
Patterson Field
Fairfield, Ohio
No. 2, December 31, 1943
Page 1
[Richard Chinn art]
“So long, Son, Good Luck.”
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Field, Ohio. Editor Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pfc Paoling Deng; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Cpl Richard E. Gee, Pvt Young Q. Ark, Pvt Woo K. Leung.
Page 2
Pvt. Louie Woon Writes a Story—
About Sidney.
(Note: Several months ago the 407th bivouacked for a week near the town of Sidney, Ohio. There the men went on the firing range. There descended on the town and made merry during their free time. This week Pvt Woon of the engineering section (surface and structural assembly) returned to Sidney for a Xmas visit, and the following thoughts occurred to him.)
What sweet memories are brought to your mind when the town of Sidney is mentioned? Is it the memory of the bivouac area where we won medals for our good marksmanship? Is it the bivouac grounds where we perspired by day and froze by night? Or the bridge we constructed to span the babbling stream?
Or does Sidney remind you of the many fair and sweet young things who made such an instantaneous hit with us; the streets through which we and they strolled, hand in hand; the favorite drinking fountain where we wove dreams and sip cokes at the same time; the amusement spots where we frequented?
Or does Sidney perhaps recall to us the wholesome and delicious dinners we were invited to eat in the homes of many kind and generous citizens? I am sure everyone of us had his fun, and each in his own particular way.
A buddy and I returned to Sidney for another visit last Sunday—the day after Christmas. We had been guests of a certain hospitable family before, and now we were invited there again. We were met at the station and driven to the lovely house, a home pervaded by the Christmas spirit. There was a glowing Christmas tree, a tableau if the Birth in the Manger, and a mistletoe dangled overhead. A son was away serving his country, and a girl was ill, but this did not dampen the holiday spirit.
We had an exceptionally fine chicken dinner, one that reminded me of the ones my mother used to cook at home. In fact, to us the visit was like a day spent at home, and precious because they are now so rare. We lingered over our allotted time, then was driven down to the station, where our host invited us to come again.
And this is what we thought as we left: that here was a home that was typical of the homes of America. These are the homes that we in the armed forces are fighting to preserve, and these are the kind of homes where one day we hope to return when the United Nations come through to ultimate victory. …..
* * *
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.
(For other items about this party, see “Chop Suey” column).
H A P P Y N E W Y E A R H A P P Y N E W Y E A R
Page 3
“CHOP SUEY”
….Tuesday night found almost half of the squadron men viewing the movie “Destination Tokyo” at the area theatre…..attention was rapt as the battle scenes in the air flashed on the screen. Then a GI usher’s voice resounded through the hall: “All men of the 407th report back to their barracks at once!”……There was mutter-mutter-mutter as the 407th boys ran helter skelter out of the place. Then they found out that a “GI Party” had been ordered….and that, in the language of the 407th, means cleaning and scrubbing up the barracks.
...We erroneously got Pvt Edward Chew married in this column last week. Ed, just out of the hospital, informed us that as far as he knows he’s still single....we committed this reportorial faux paux [sic] on the misinformation of an Orderly Room general...sorry, Ed, we hope we haven’t jeopardized your social standing.
…Was it Pvt Wing Hom who drove a truck into a ditch the other night during blackout driving practice?..tsk, tsk….
...C.O.D. (Chee O. Der) wants to have his PX gal friend Sylvia mentioned in this column...so here it is, buddy, Now do we get a free beer?
…Five more EM’s returned from their happy furloughs this week: Pfc’s Fong K Eng, Elwin Ong, John S. Leong, Gin Long, and Pvt Robert Jung….so did our own Sgt “York”—York M. Kai [sic], who came back quite a few days ago. So did our medical officer, Lt. K.C.K. Lau, “Doc” Lau to us all….he had a swell leave in New York.
…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?…Popular Pfc So Tak showed up with a duo of Chinese lady friends, Bo Jun Wong and Yutreul Yee….Sgt Andrew Lee had one too many, but Cpl W. J. Hoy had to be content with just a sip, because he had a train to catch……..
…The wives of several EM’s dropped in at the party and were introduced around, to the pleasure of all…Say, who was the mustachioed gent who tried too hard to date “Miss Joyce,” the pretty entertainer at the party?……Sgt Jerry Chew deserves a big hand for working so hard to make the Xmas shindig a good one….he actually worried for days, and at the last moment he was almost unable to get the dinner held at the Chungking…on account two of the restaurant’s waiters had just quit…..
…Was it Sgt Andrew Lee who walked into his barracks at the ungodly hour 1:30 ayem on Xmas morn and woke up all the slumbering GI’s because he was connting [sic] cadence—but loud—all the way?
…The other day Pvts Wong On and Woo K Leung were asked to help a buddy pack up in preparation for transfer…..but there was a slight misunderstanding somewhere, for before anybody knew it Wong and Woo had themselves packed up instead….1st Sgt Chan did some telling before the situation was cleared up….
…Cpl Mon K. Fong got the surprise of his life when he came back from furlough last week and found he had been promoted to Sgt in his absence..that’s almost worth coming back to find out, huh?….“Monkey” incidentally, is trying to get his John Henry changed to a less simian-sounding handle…don’t blame him….it’s tough to be called an ape all the time.
…They tell us that Cpl Richard Gee, who has been a model boy most of his life (ask us; we have known him since his diaper days), and never, never uses rough and vulgar language, is learning to—but fast, by heck..GI’s are GI’s, we guess…..
…Sa-ay, Pfc Howe T. Jay cuts quite a figure on the skating rink, as we saw t’other nite in Dayton. With one arm around a pretty lass and a happy grin on his boyish face, he wheels around the rink with the greatest ease……while beyond the railing there was Pvt Wong On trying hard to maintain a vertical position and maneuver his skates at the same time….
…From his GHQ in Barracks 3, “Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan in his latest communique expresses the opinions that what this squadron needs is more Chinese chow and less GI stew….incidently [sic], who ate up that jar of bean cakes we brought back all the way from Chicago?
(We need contributions for this Chop Suey column of squadron small doings, gossip and whatnot. So bring in any and all items, men).
Page 4
“CHOP SUEY”
Murphy Quan Gets A Surprise
Among the many Xmas presents which arrived late was one for Sgt William “Murphy” Quan. It was gaily wrapped and artistically decorated. And it was rather heavy, as if it contained pounds of sweets.
In the twinkling of an eye Murphy’s buddies gathered around him as he proceeded to unwrap the package. Mouths were watering at the prospects of something good to eat. After all, the present was from Bill’s mother, so it must contain something exceptionally good.
The boys crowded around. Bill’s fingers tore away the wrappings, opened the box cover, pulled aside the wax paper and—
For reposing on the tour part of the gift box was several pounds of succulent-looking Chinese sausages.
And on the bottom was a great big salted fish, the famous “Yow Dai Day” from the waters of Monterey, California.
The faces of the onlookers fell. But Murphy beamed.
“Ah!” he ah’ed, “now I can cook myself some real Chinese chow. Oboyoboy!”
Mrs Quan certainly knew what her boy wanted.
* * *
Sgt. Paul Tom Returns from DS.
After a 16 weeks’ study of a most intricate subject—that of bombsight—Sgt Paul Tom successfully completed the course at a special school in Brooklyn, N. Y., and returned from detached service this week.
Sgt Tom left on his DS with only one stripe on his sleeves, but returned with three. He passed the bombsight course with high marks.
*****
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.
New Year’s Eve Shindig.
In the offing again is another 407th party, this time to celebrate the coming of 1944. A club hall in Dayton has been secured to hold the frolic in, and a committee is working out details of the party.
But one thing the committee cannot furnish, and that’s feminine escorts. So men, bring your dates! We’ll take care of the rest.
*****
Basketball Game.
Playing their 5th game this season, the 407th casaba team met the 912th Engrs Squadron Thursday in the field gymnasium. Considered the number one basketball tossers in Patterson Fld, the 912th defeated the 407th aggregation by a score of 40-21.
So far, in all the games played, the 407th team, managed by Sgt Woody Chan, has met up with keen and stiff competition, and this last game was no exception. In the 5th game just played the starting line-up consisted of Sgt William “Murphy” Quan (captain), Pfc Albert Fong, Pvt Ben Louie, Pvt Henry Wong (13), and Pvt Edward Chew. Other players include Cpl Wing H. Fong, Pfc John S. Leong, Pfc Howard Quan, Pvt Peter Gee, Pvt Edwin Chu, Sgt Woodrow Chan, Cpl Thomas Lee, Cpl Samuel Yee, Sgt Charles Lum, and Pfc Howard Loo.
GUNG HO
407th Service Squadron
Patterson Field
Fairfield, Ohio
No. 3, January 7, 1944
Page 1
Fifty Six EM’s Promoted
Hearts skipped a beat and faces beamed this week among members of practically every technical section of the squadron. Squadron Special Order #1 for the year of 1944 dealt out welcome promotions to no less that 56 members of the unit, with the grades ranging from Private First Class to Master Sergeant.
One EM was promoted to Master Sergeant and one was made Technical Sergeant. Other promotion included 5 Staff Sergeants, 3 Sergeants, 26 Corporals and 20 Private 1st Class.
The coveted stripes of a M/Sgt went to T/Sgt Floyd Sam, inspector in the unit’s engineering section, while S/Sgt Henry Wong was made T/Sgt.
Staff Sergeant ratings were given the following Sgts: Kim W. Jung, York M. Kao, Lawrence S Fong, and Donald Y. Louie.
* * *
The following Corporals were advanced to Sergeant status: Donald C. Poy, Fulton Yee and Grey K. Toy.
The 26 Pfc’s who were promoted to Corporals include: Harding Wong, Soo J. Wong, Kenneth Mah, Richard Y. Wong, Elwood H. Low, Park C. Chin, Arthur R. Lee, Wellie Chin, Harry Q. Wong, George L. Shue, Yew S. Jew, George Chow, Koonwah Lim, Homer K.H. Eng, Stanley L. Chinn, Albert Fong, Yee S. Lim, Hing W. Jee, Roland Gee Jr., Fred Ko, Henry Y. Mar, Henry Lee, George T. Gon, Wan H. Ching, Lee Ngew, and Henry Luke.
Promoted to Pfc’s were the following 20 Pvts: Stanley W. Tom, Robert Jung, Herbert J Lee, Glenn Chinn, Henry Wong [13], John J. Lee, Wong L. Jack, Albert F. L. Fong, Calvin Huie, Gordon Wong, Ying W. Chin, Harry G. King, Gwon J. Lee, Wing Hom, Kim M. Wong, Fot Y. Moy, Chung L. Quan, Yee D. Tang, Goy A. Chin and Look C. Kwong.
To all these newly promoted EM’s “Gung Ho” extends heartiest congratulations.
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Field, Ohio. Editorial Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pvt Young Q. Ark; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Cpl Richard E. Gee, Pvt Woo K. Leung.
No. 1, December 25, 1943
Page 1
Another Star Is Born
[illustration]
A Message from the C. O.
TO THE 407TH SERVICE SQUADRON
The Commanding Officer wishes to express his sincere thanks to the men of the 407th for their very fine cooperation and loyalty since the activation of this Squadron.
GUNG HO meaning Work Together should be symbolic of this organization and it is my desire that the men use this paper as an outlet for their thoughts in promoting the welfare of this Squadron. The road ahead will be long and hard and it is imperative that this organization be solidified to such an extent that it will be impregnable.
I realize that you have many problems and I want you to feel free to discuss them with me at any time. I have full confidence in you and my Non-Commissioned Officers and it is my desire that full cooperation be displayed at all times.
The Officers of this organization join me in extending CHRISTMAS GREETINGS. BEST WISHES for the New Year. MARK T. MOOTY, Captain, A. C. Commanding
Page 2
“CHOP SUEY”
Wotcha know, O son of Confucius?
…Our lichee nut award for the busiest man of the week goes to Cpl Mack Pong. Need no explain why? He’s our mail orderly, see, and this is the week the Xmas mail and holiday presents roll in by the jeep-ful, see? Ergo, Mack is beginning to look like the hunchback of Notre Dame from carrying so many mail bags. But, [w]here’s our Xmas packages, Mack ?
... Mild-tempered Pvt Woo Leung had his equilibrium shattered the other day,. Reason: “1st Sgt Chan” Woo expostulated, “told me I needed close order drills. Can you imagine me needing drilling? ME, who just came out of the Infantry?” ....... enough 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! ...
...Sgt Lawrence Fong was caught staying in the barracks all day the other day...But he was not goldbricking by any means...he was plenty busy getting everybody’s duffle bags stencilled, that’s why....Calling all GI’s who are musicians and who have instruments with them, such as harmonicas, saxophones, etc: how about getting together for a jam session in the dayroom? See us about arrangements, will you?.........
...Talk about happy smiling faces, you should see the countenances of those lucky boys who returned this week from furlough...How about that, Sgts Andrew Lee, Wm Quan, Cpls Fong Lee, Wilfred Eng, Tonley Ju, Mon K. Fong, Benson Lee, Pfc’s Din Lew, Homer Eng, Roland Gee, Howe Jay, Chin Ying, Pvts John J. Lee and Henry Wong (30)?.........
...Greetings to the 4 new men who joined the 407th this week. They are Cpl Eugene Szeto and Pvt Gem Y. Lee of New York, Cpl San Pon of Detroit, and Cpl William J Hoy of San Francisco....and Pfc Hanson Siu was transferred to the 555th Squadron at Springfield, Illinois........
...Talk about getting Xmas cards, Pfc So Tak not only got loads of ’em from females he knows, but also from females he doesn’t know. F’instance, he’d like to know who Naomi and Valentine are. Only clues are that one is from Fairfield, and the other from nearby London....
...Now excuse us while we go over to Barracks 3 and confer with “Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan about the war situation on the Burma Road........
4 GI’s Get Tied in a Knot
Among the GI’s who went on furloughs recently 4 of them came back and reported they have stopped wearing pants. That is, figuratively speaking. What we mean is that these 4 got themselves married—allee samee catchem wife—in various parts of the country.
Pvt Ed Chew married a little miss from Oakland, Calif., while across the bay in San Francisco Pfc Gim Jeong also marched bravely to the alter.
Elsewhere S/Sgt George Wong married Kay Lee of San Antonio, Texas. And S/Sgt James Yee persuaded popular Larraine Lee of Los Angeles to be his Mrs. We always said Jimmy had a persuasive tongue.
We understand both Mrs. Wong and Mrs. Yee will join their husbands here for Christmas.
*****
407th Xmas Dinner.
Almost the entire enlisted personnel of the squadron have signed up for the big Xmas dinner party as this issue goes to press. The dinner will be held at the Chungking restaurant in Dayton, the only Chinese dining place spacious enough to hold such a crowd.
Sgt Jerry Chew did the arrangements, and delicious fried chicken with rice and all the trimmings is promised. What is more, the cost of the dinner will come out of squadron fund. Sgt Chew hopes to have some entertainment for the boys also.
See you in Chungking!
Page 3
Meet the “Gung Ho” Scribes.
The staff of our paper is still being formed as this first issue goes to press, and their names will be announced as they join up. Meanwhile, we take pleasure in introducing the staff members who have helped in getting out our birthday number, and telling something of their background and training.
Cpl YOW RICHARD CHINN, our artist, was trained in drawing and painting, both in China and in this country. Coming to the U. S. in 1923, he attended American grade schools and later studied for two years at the famed Chicago Art Institute. He has worked as a cartoonist and dons commercial drawings, while his oils and watercolors have been exhibited.
Pfc PAOLING DENG, who was responsible for writing most of the Chinese section, was born in China and came to the U. S. 15 years ago. For 4 years to 1942 he studied both fine arts and chemistry at the University of Chicago. As a fine arts man he was worked as commercial illustrator, while as chemist he has been employed as laboratory assistant. During his China days he once served as principal of a school in Shanghai. Right now chemist Deng is assigned to the medical section of our organization, but part of his duties includes lecturing to the medics of other units, giving them the benefit of his chemical knowledge.
Cpl RICHARD E. GEE, who figured out the lettering for this issue, is an 18 year old who was born and bred in San Francisco’s Chinatown , Mecca of the Chinese in the U. S. SFJC was his school, where he took mechanical and civil engineering and ROTC.
Cpl JAMES GIMBO JAY, without whose assistance this issue could not have gotten out in time, is an all-around clerk and machine shop man. He came to this country in 1936 and had his American schooling in New York City. He was in trade school prior to his army induction. He also served several months in the Merchant Marines at Long Island, N. Y.
Pvt YOUNG Q. ARK, born in China, has only been in the U. S. since 1940. In China he attended the famous Poy Ying Middle School in Canton. Pvt Ark had the tough task of printing the characters in the Chinese section, and likewise contributed the verses therein.
*****
What “Gung Ho” Means.
“Gung Ho,” translated into English means Work-Together. It is the name of the Chinese Industrial Cooperatives in Free China, those little plants which manufacture ammunitions and small arms for the use of the Chinese Army. The C. I. C. is one of the most important factor[s] in China’s continued resistance against the Japanese.
“Gung Ho” is also the stirring war cry of Lt. Col. Evans Carlson’s south Pacific commandos. Col. Carlson, who has spent years in China and knows the Chinese language, adopted these two words for his use because of their meaning. Work-Together—words that express the hope and the means whereby the forces of of the United Nations can defeat the Axis powers.
Work-Together—that should be the slogan of the 407th Service Squadron also, for only by working together can the unit function properly and efficiently and achieve the maximum results desired.
So let’s Work-Together!
Gung Ho!
Two Good Men.
Ten days ago the Physical Fitness Dept of the Patterson Field Special Service OfFice conducted a contest to determine the best physically fit soldier on the post. There were contestants from all squadrons and units on the field, including men from the 407th.
This week the results of the contests were announced. Eighteen EM’s were cited as the best physical specimens on the post. And among the 18 were two EM’s from our squadron, Cpl Earl Jung and Pfc Kenneth Wah [sic]. Earl scored 180 points, and Kenneth got 135. These two Tarzans will receive their awards soon.
Page 4
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS
We, the enlisted personnel of the 407th, are proud to present the first issue of what, it is hoped, will be a regular publication.
In its humble way, the “Gung Ho” hopes to be the medium whereby the men of the 407th will get to know the Squadron activities, whether they be curricular, extra-curricular, or otherwise.
The “Gung Ho” will seek to bring about understanding and appreciation of each other’s function and work in the Squadron.
It will seek to create a spirit of fellowship, a real Confucian sense of social harmony, and a sense of community of purpose among the personnel.
The “Gung Ho” will in every way possible record the varied doings of the men of the 407th. In this manner it will be the week to week resume of their life in the organization, jotted down for the information, amusement and benefit of all. Working in their respective sections or departments, it is impossible for most of the men to know what each other is doing or thinking half of the time. This paper will seek to bridge that necessary gap by supplying the most interesting information to all,
And last but not least, the “Gung Ho” will serve as the informal historical record of the 407th, reflecting in its pages the life of its men. You will not find in it anything of a military nature, but if you are interested in learning how “Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan got his great title, or why Pfc So Tak gets so much fan mail, “Gung Ho” will undertake to supply you the answers.
So here’s greetings and good reading as we make our initial bow.
*******
EM’s Return from Detached Service
After a two weeks’ special course in the air service dept at Orlando, Fla., 9 EM’s returned to the 407th this week. The group consisted of T/Sgt Floyd Sam, S/Sgts Henry Wong, James Yee, Ton G. Lum and George Wong, Sgts Donald Y. Louie and Hing B. Lo, Pfcs Koonwah Lim and George M. Shue.
Sgt Louie reported that the Flordia [sic] sunshine gave him a good tan. But Pfc Shue, contrariwise, caught a cold instead.
T/Sgt Sam gave out that several of the boys, namely Lum, Louie, Lo and Lim, had occasion to visit Cypress Garden down yonder. It so happens that this place is our C.O.’s hometown, and the boys seriously thought of invading the latter’s home. But in a case of cold feet caught them and the idea was abandoned.
The boys also visited the movie set where the “Tarzan” pictures are made—and found out how Johnny Weismuller could climb those jungle trees so fast. No, they feel they can climb them just as dextrously.
One of the highlights of the EM’s returning trip was the real Chinese meal they had in Jacksonville. Said Floyd: “We had sea-weed soup, Chinese style chicken, beef and tomatoes, bean cakes, etc. Boy, did we eat!”
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Field, Ohio. Editor Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pfc Paoling Deng; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Cpl Richard E. Gee. Put Young Q. Ark, Pvt Woo K. Leung
GUNG HO
407th Service Squadron
Patterson Field
Fairfield, Ohio
No. 2, December 31, 1943
Page 1
[Richard Chinn art]
“So long, Son, Good Luck.”
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Field, Ohio. Editor Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pfc Paoling Deng; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Cpl Richard E. Gee, Pvt Young Q. Ark, Pvt Woo K. Leung.
Page 2
Pvt. Louie Woon Writes a Story—
About Sidney.
(Note: Several months ago the 407th bivouacked for a week near the town of Sidney, Ohio. There the men went on the firing range. There descended on the town and made merry during their free time. This week Pvt Woon of the engineering section (surface and structural assembly) returned to Sidney for a Xmas visit, and the following thoughts occurred to him.)
What sweet memories are brought to your mind when the town of Sidney is mentioned? Is it the memory of the bivouac area where we won medals for our good marksmanship? Is it the bivouac grounds where we perspired by day and froze by night? Or the bridge we constructed to span the babbling stream?
Or does Sidney remind you of the many fair and sweet young things who made such an instantaneous hit with us; the streets through which we and they strolled, hand in hand; the favorite drinking fountain where we wove dreams and sip cokes at the same time; the amusement spots where we frequented?
Or does Sidney perhaps recall to us the wholesome and delicious dinners we were invited to eat in the homes of many kind and generous citizens? I am sure everyone of us had his fun, and each in his own particular way.
A buddy and I returned to Sidney for another visit last Sunday—the day after Christmas. We had been guests of a certain hospitable family before, and now we were invited there again. We were met at the station and driven to the lovely house, a home pervaded by the Christmas spirit. There was a glowing Christmas tree, a tableau if the Birth in the Manger, and a mistletoe dangled overhead. A son was away serving his country, and a girl was ill, but this did not dampen the holiday spirit.
We had an exceptionally fine chicken dinner, one that reminded me of the ones my mother used to cook at home. In fact, to us the visit was like a day spent at home, and precious because they are now so rare. We lingered over our allotted time, then was driven down to the station, where our host invited us to come again.
And this is what we thought as we left: that here was a home that was typical of the homes of America. These are the homes that we in the armed forces are fighting to preserve, and these are the kind of homes where one day we hope to return when the United Nations come through to ultimate victory. …..
* * *
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.
(For other items about this party, see “Chop Suey” column).
H A P P Y N E W Y E A R H A P P Y N E W Y E A R
Page 3
“CHOP SUEY”
….Tuesday night found almost half of the squadron men viewing the movie “Destination Tokyo” at the area theatre…..attention was rapt as the battle scenes in the air flashed on the screen. Then a GI usher’s voice resounded through the hall: “All men of the 407th report back to their barracks at once!”……There was mutter-mutter-mutter as the 407th boys ran helter skelter out of the place. Then they found out that a “GI Party” had been ordered….and that, in the language of the 407th, means cleaning and scrubbing up the barracks.
...We erroneously got Pvt Edward Chew married in this column last week. Ed, just out of the hospital, informed us that as far as he knows he’s still single....we committed this reportorial faux paux [sic] on the misinformation of an Orderly Room general...sorry, Ed, we hope we haven’t jeopardized your social standing.
…Was it Pvt Wing Hom who drove a truck into a ditch the other night during blackout driving practice?..tsk, tsk….
...C.O.D. (Chee O. Der) wants to have his PX gal friend Sylvia mentioned in this column...so here it is, buddy, Now do we get a free beer?
…Five more EM’s returned from their happy furloughs this week: Pfc’s Fong K Eng, Elwin Ong, John S. Leong, Gin Long, and Pvt Robert Jung….so did our own Sgt “York”—York M. Kai [sic], who came back quite a few days ago. So did our medical officer, Lt. K.C.K. Lau, “Doc” Lau to us all….he had a swell leave in New York.
…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?…Popular Pfc So Tak showed up with a duo of Chinese lady friends, Bo Jun Wong and Yutreul Yee….Sgt Andrew Lee had one too many, but Cpl W. J. Hoy had to be content with just a sip, because he had a train to catch……..
…The wives of several EM’s dropped in at the party and were introduced around, to the pleasure of all…Say, who was the mustachioed gent who tried too hard to date “Miss Joyce,” the pretty entertainer at the party?……Sgt Jerry Chew deserves a big hand for working so hard to make the Xmas shindig a good one….he actually worried for days, and at the last moment he was almost unable to get the dinner held at the Chungking…on account two of the restaurant’s waiters had just quit…..
…Was it Sgt Andrew Lee who walked into his barracks at the ungodly hour 1:30 ayem on Xmas morn and woke up all the slumbering GI’s because he was connting [sic] cadence—but loud—all the way?
…The other day Pvts Wong On and Woo K Leung were asked to help a buddy pack up in preparation for transfer…..but there was a slight misunderstanding somewhere, for before anybody knew it Wong and Woo had themselves packed up instead….1st Sgt Chan did some telling before the situation was cleared up….
…Cpl Mon K. Fong got the surprise of his life when he came back from furlough last week and found he had been promoted to Sgt in his absence..that’s almost worth coming back to find out, huh?….“Monkey” incidentally, is trying to get his John Henry changed to a less simian-sounding handle…don’t blame him….it’s tough to be called an ape all the time.
…They tell us that Cpl Richard Gee, who has been a model boy most of his life (ask us; we have known him since his diaper days), and never, never uses rough and vulgar language, is learning to—but fast, by heck..GI’s are GI’s, we guess…..
…Sa-ay, Pfc Howe T. Jay cuts quite a figure on the skating rink, as we saw t’other nite in Dayton. With one arm around a pretty lass and a happy grin on his boyish face, he wheels around the rink with the greatest ease……while beyond the railing there was Pvt Wong On trying hard to maintain a vertical position and maneuver his skates at the same time….
…From his GHQ in Barracks 3, “Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan in his latest communique expresses the opinions that what this squadron needs is more Chinese chow and less GI stew….incidently [sic], who ate up that jar of bean cakes we brought back all the way from Chicago?
(We need contributions for this Chop Suey column of squadron small doings, gossip and whatnot. So bring in any and all items, men).
Page 4
“CHOP SUEY”
Murphy Quan Gets A Surprise
Among the many Xmas presents which arrived late was one for Sgt William “Murphy” Quan. It was gaily wrapped and artistically decorated. And it was rather heavy, as if it contained pounds of sweets.
In the twinkling of an eye Murphy’s buddies gathered around him as he proceeded to unwrap the package. Mouths were watering at the prospects of something good to eat. After all, the present was from Bill’s mother, so it must contain something exceptionally good.
The boys crowded around. Bill’s fingers tore away the wrappings, opened the box cover, pulled aside the wax paper and—
For reposing on the tour part of the gift box was several pounds of succulent-looking Chinese sausages.
And on the bottom was a great big salted fish, the famous “Yow Dai Day” from the waters of Monterey, California.
The faces of the onlookers fell. But Murphy beamed.
“Ah!” he ah’ed, “now I can cook myself some real Chinese chow. Oboyoboy!”
Mrs Quan certainly knew what her boy wanted.
* * *
Sgt. Paul Tom Returns from DS.
After a 16 weeks’ study of a most intricate subject—that of bombsight—Sgt Paul Tom successfully completed the course at a special school in Brooklyn, N. Y., and returned from detached service this week.
Sgt Tom left on his DS with only one stripe on his sleeves, but returned with three. He passed the bombsight course with high marks.
*****
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.
New Year’s Eve Shindig.
In the offing again is another 407th party, this time to celebrate the coming of 1944. A club hall in Dayton has been secured to hold the frolic in, and a committee is working out details of the party.
But one thing the committee cannot furnish, and that’s feminine escorts. So men, bring your dates! We’ll take care of the rest.
*****
Basketball Game.
Playing their 5th game this season, the 407th casaba team met the 912th Engrs Squadron Thursday in the field gymnasium. Considered the number one basketball tossers in Patterson Fld, the 912th defeated the 407th aggregation by a score of 40-21.
So far, in all the games played, the 407th team, managed by Sgt Woody Chan, has met up with keen and stiff competition, and this last game was no exception. In the 5th game just played the starting line-up consisted of Sgt William “Murphy” Quan (captain), Pfc Albert Fong, Pvt Ben Louie, Pvt Henry Wong (13), and Pvt Edward Chew. Other players include Cpl Wing H. Fong, Pfc John S. Leong, Pfc Howard Quan, Pvt Peter Gee, Pvt Edwin Chu, Sgt Woodrow Chan, Cpl Thomas Lee, Cpl Samuel Yee, Sgt Charles Lum, and Pfc Howard Loo.
GUNG HO
407th Service Squadron
Patterson Field
Fairfield, Ohio
No. 3, January 7, 1944
Page 1
Fifty Six EM’s Promoted
Hearts skipped a beat and faces beamed this week among members of practically every technical section of the squadron. Squadron Special Order #1 for the year of 1944 dealt out welcome promotions to no less that 56 members of the unit, with the grades ranging from Private First Class to Master Sergeant.
One EM was promoted to Master Sergeant and one was made Technical Sergeant. Other promotion included 5 Staff Sergeants, 3 Sergeants, 26 Corporals and 20 Private 1st Class.
The coveted stripes of a M/Sgt went to T/Sgt Floyd Sam, inspector in the unit’s engineering section, while S/Sgt Henry Wong was made T/Sgt.
Staff Sergeant ratings were given the following Sgts: Kim W. Jung, York M. Kao, Lawrence S Fong, and Donald Y. Louie.
* * *
The following Corporals were advanced to Sergeant status: Donald C. Poy, Fulton Yee and Grey K. Toy.
The 26 Pfc’s who were promoted to Corporals include: Harding Wong, Soo J. Wong, Kenneth Mah, Richard Y. Wong, Elwood H. Low, Park C. Chin, Arthur R. Lee, Wellie Chin, Harry Q. Wong, George L. Shue, Yew S. Jew, George Chow, Koonwah Lim, Homer K.H. Eng, Stanley L. Chinn, Albert Fong, Yee S. Lim, Hing W. Jee, Roland Gee Jr., Fred Ko, Henry Y. Mar, Henry Lee, George T. Gon, Wan H. Ching, Lee Ngew, and Henry Luke.
Promoted to Pfc’s were the following 20 Pvts: Stanley W. Tom, Robert Jung, Herbert J Lee, Glenn Chinn, Henry Wong [13], John J. Lee, Wong L. Jack, Albert F. L. Fong, Calvin Huie, Gordon Wong, Ying W. Chin, Harry G. King, Gwon J. Lee, Wing Hom, Kim M. Wong, Fot Y. Moy, Chung L. Quan, Yee D. Tang, Goy A. Chin and Look C. Kwong.
To all these newly promoted EM’s “Gung Ho” extends heartiest congratulations.
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Field, Ohio. Editorial Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pvt Young Q. Ark; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Cpl Richard E. Gee, Pvt Woo K. Leung.
Page 2
Squadron Gets New C. O.
Coming as a complete surprise, the 407th this week got a new Commanding Officer in the person of Maj. Sydney T. Smith. Maj. Smith took over the reins previously held by Capt Mark T. Mooty, who has been transferred to another organization.
Members of the unit felt keenly the loss of Capt Mooty, since he had commanded this squadron upon its activation several months ago and had earned the respect and loyalty of its entire personnel. Hearts were heavy last week when Capt Mooty announced that he had been relieved.
However, Maj. Smith has had an impressive record of combat flying and administrative experience behind him and he expects to continue the work so well begun by the 407th’s previous commanding officer. A flying fortress pilot, Major Smith’s record has included some thirty bombing missions over Nazi occupied territory in Europe. He has also commanded an American Air Force unit in England.
Asked for a message to the personnel through the pages of “Gung Ho,” the 407th’s Commanding Officer said:
“Without taking too much of your time or space, I wish to say that I am very glad to have the opportunity to be associated with the 407th.”
“In the time that I have observed you from “the outside,” and the short time since assuming command, it has been plainly evident that this is an outfit that will go far and do a good job under any conditions.
“Remember, that under any circumstances, your C. O. is behind you, right or wrong. But just try not to be wrong too many times.”
*****
Medical Officer Promoted
Twin bars this week appeared on the shoulder of 407th’s medical officer, K. C. Kenneth Lau as he was promoted from 1st Lt. to Captain. The promotion became effective January 1, 1944, thus making it a real happy New Year to “Doc” as he is known to the unit personnel.
Capt. Lau, who hails from Hawaii, was an outstanding Chinese physician in New York City when he was called into the service. A specialist in internal medicine, he was instructor at the New York Medical College and visiting physician to the Metropolitan City hospital and the New York Medical College hospital.
He was commissioned a 1st Lt. in the Medical Reserve Corps in 1937, and his current active service began May 22, 1943. He was assigned as medical officer to the 407th in August, 1943, a month after the unit’s activation.
*****
Casaba Team Wins
Playing the 6th game of the current Patterson Field intra-squadron basketball league series, the 407th quintet came through with a resounding victory this Thursday when it met the 2nd Weather Squadron. The score at the end of the game was 40 to 9 in favor of the 407th.
Playing in better than usual form, the 407th’s starting line-up consisted of Cpl Albert Fong, Sgt “Murphy” Quan, Pfc Henry Leong, Pfc Henry Wong (13) and Pvt Peter K. Gee.
Playing forward, Al Fong was high score man, turning in 15 points, while Henry Leong displayed good floor work, ably supported by the other players.
*****
10 EM’s Indiana-Bound
Days ago, near Liberty, Ind. a B-25 was forced down in the middle of a corn field. To get it out it was deemed necessary to dismantle the plane part by part.
This week that job of dismantling was given to the 407th. Ten EM’s were picked for the task, and left for Indiana Tuesday, accompanied by WO T.A. Egnoski. This temporary duty is to last approximately 5 days, at the end of which some additional practical experience should have been gained by the men.
The 10 EM’s who went there: M/Sgt. Floyd Sam, S/Sgt Donald Louie, Sgt Hing Lo, Sgt Wm Toy, Cpl Koonwah Lim, Cpl Geo. Chow, Sgt Donald Poy, Sgt Fulton Yee, Cpl Andrew Goon, Pfc Woo H. Niy….
Squadron Gets New C. O.
Coming as a complete surprise, the 407th this week got a new Commanding Officer in the person of Maj. Sydney T. Smith. Maj. Smith took over the reins previously held by Capt Mark T. Mooty, who has been transferred to another organization.
Members of the unit felt keenly the loss of Capt Mooty, since he had commanded this squadron upon its activation several months ago and had earned the respect and loyalty of its entire personnel. Hearts were heavy last week when Capt Mooty announced that he had been relieved.
However, Maj. Smith has had an impressive record of combat flying and administrative experience behind him and he expects to continue the work so well begun by the 407th’s previous commanding officer. A flying fortress pilot, Major Smith’s record has included some thirty bombing missions over Nazi occupied territory in Europe. He has also commanded an American Air Force unit in England.
Asked for a message to the personnel through the pages of “Gung Ho,” the 407th’s Commanding Officer said:
“Without taking too much of your time or space, I wish to say that I am very glad to have the opportunity to be associated with the 407th.”
“In the time that I have observed you from “the outside,” and the short time since assuming command, it has been plainly evident that this is an outfit that will go far and do a good job under any conditions.
“Remember, that under any circumstances, your C. O. is behind you, right or wrong. But just try not to be wrong too many times.”
*****
Medical Officer Promoted
Twin bars this week appeared on the shoulder of 407th’s medical officer, K. C. Kenneth Lau as he was promoted from 1st Lt. to Captain. The promotion became effective January 1, 1944, thus making it a real happy New Year to “Doc” as he is known to the unit personnel.
Capt. Lau, who hails from Hawaii, was an outstanding Chinese physician in New York City when he was called into the service. A specialist in internal medicine, he was instructor at the New York Medical College and visiting physician to the Metropolitan City hospital and the New York Medical College hospital.
He was commissioned a 1st Lt. in the Medical Reserve Corps in 1937, and his current active service began May 22, 1943. He was assigned as medical officer to the 407th in August, 1943, a month after the unit’s activation.
*****
Casaba Team Wins
Playing the 6th game of the current Patterson Field intra-squadron basketball league series, the 407th quintet came through with a resounding victory this Thursday when it met the 2nd Weather Squadron. The score at the end of the game was 40 to 9 in favor of the 407th.
Playing in better than usual form, the 407th’s starting line-up consisted of Cpl Albert Fong, Sgt “Murphy” Quan, Pfc Henry Leong, Pfc Henry Wong (13) and Pvt Peter K. Gee.
Playing forward, Al Fong was high score man, turning in 15 points, while Henry Leong displayed good floor work, ably supported by the other players.
*****
10 EM’s Indiana-Bound
Days ago, near Liberty, Ind. a B-25 was forced down in the middle of a corn field. To get it out it was deemed necessary to dismantle the plane part by part.
This week that job of dismantling was given to the 407th. Ten EM’s were picked for the task, and left for Indiana Tuesday, accompanied by WO T.A. Egnoski. This temporary duty is to last approximately 5 days, at the end of which some additional practical experience should have been gained by the men.
The 10 EM’s who went there: M/Sgt. Floyd Sam, S/Sgt Donald Louie, Sgt Hing Lo, Sgt Wm Toy, Cpl Koonwah Lim, Cpl Geo. Chow, Sgt Donald Poy, Sgt Fulton Yee, Cpl Andrew Goon, Pfc Woo H. Niy….
Page 3
“CHOP SUEY”
(A dish of hodge-lodge news and reasonable facsimile of same by the “Vulture” Winchell of the 407th).
…..Gosh, that basketball game played by the 407th quintet Thursday eve must have been rigged, or else a couple of the boys were a wee bit soft…for on the morning after the players limped into the Orderly Room and signed up for Sick Call. Rough game, Murphy Quan and John Leong?…..
…..Cpl Richard Gee has now formerly been introduced to Lady Nicotine…..t’other day he smoked his first cigarette..it wasn’t a Chesterfield either, but it satisfied…OH Gee!…..
…..What S/Sgt in Barracks #1 is said to have the Chinese femmes situation in Cincinnati cornered, and won’t let his pals in on it?…..And S/Sgt Gene Wong of supply certainly walks as if he’s got the world on his shoulders…he is a busy man, tho, for t’other morn he si [sic] signed up for sick call, and five minutes later returned and said he couldn’t go ’cause he had too many things to do…
…..Here’s some items from the New Year eve shindig, for the record…..200 GI’s had fun & frolic at the Loretto Club….there weren’t enough gals for the boys to dance with, but most of them managed…there were Waves & Wacs & civilian femmes…there were noisemakers a-plenty…and eats and drinks….and community sing…and there was Cpl Raymond K. Fong trying to make himself heard as he warbled “Jericho” above the din….and 1st/Sgt Chan, getting tired finally of watching his boys, stepped onto the floor with a hostess & gave his feet some needed exercises…..
…..Sgt. Grey K. Toy had a date, who was supposed to show up at the party….but he waited & waited she never did come…..while Pfc Goy Chin’s bracelet ident tag showed up in the hands of a Wac.....he said he had “lost” it during the party....izzat so?…Sgt Henry Lew enjoyed himself so much that nite, before, during and after the party, he had a two day hangover…“What a nite!” He moaned…..and boy, wasn’t it nice to see some of the Sgts on K. P. at the party?…..
…..there were all kinds of games to play, including a set of mah jong Pfc So Tak had borrowed all the way from Springfield….but nobody touched it….the boys rather play dominoes…..
…..Most of the party-going GI’s didn’t even get in till 3 or 4 ayem..on account of crowded buses…next morning the big bags under Cpl James W. Chan’s eyes were something top behold…the only bright-eyed soldier on New Year’s day seemed to be S/Sgt Lawrence Fong..he preferred to sleep & so didn’t go out at all..strictly a homebody…….so much for this…..
…..Cpl Eugene Szeto wants everybody to know he’s proud of his kid brother, Fredric, 10….on account the latter has a prominent part in a play just opened in Boston, called “Suds in Your eye”…….brother Frederic figures in a Chinatown scene…and Benson Lee, fresh out of the station hospital, went bowling t’other nite in Dayton…and scored a mere 208…and Cpl Paul Fong, decrecating [sic] his own proficiency at the game, proceeded to roll up a score of 225….such lousy players…..yeah!……
…..Sgt Charles Lum admits he has attended “Doc” Lau’s first aid lectures four times already, but still doesn’t know how many kinds of fractures there are, by gosh….incidently [sic] Charlie is the only man in the outfit who talks with a southern twang, and no kidding…no wonder, ’cause he comes from West Memphis, deep in the hill-billy state of Arkansaw [sic]….yassuh….and boys, don’t kid yourself into thinking Charlie doesn’t understand Chinese…he may not be able to speak much, but he sho’ can listen!…..
…..“Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan is now a full fledged Pfc….this dept. is preparing a portrait of this celestial now so posterity may know his likeness…..
...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!
Page 4
100 EM Cavort at Loretto Club Dance
Last week the men of the 407th made merry at a New Year’s Eve party in the hospitable atmosphere of the Loretto Club in Dayton, a Catholic women’s organization co-operating with the U.S.O. it was over the GI’s wished they could return again soon for another social.
This week that wish was realized. Right after New Year the Loretto Club extended an invitation to the unit to attend a dance and social at the same place Thursday evening. The invitation was accepted almost immediately, and in 24 hours 100 EM’s had signed up to attend. Especially after it was promised that there would be enough hostesses on hand to give every guest a chance to jive and jitter, and perchance to dance as well. Music was to be provided by a 12-piece orchestra.
The Loretto members who were mainly responsible for arranging this affair include Roberta Arbuthonot, Martha Green, Zola Strider, Maxine Shaper, Kitty and Alice Curcio.
Although this dance was an invitational affair, a slight fee was assesed [sic] each 407th EM who attended. This, however, was not for a mercenary purpose. It was for the laudable object of purchasing a gift for the Loretto in appreciation for the hospitality and courtesy its members have accorded the men of the 407th.
The gift was an oil painting entitled “Rose Goddess,” painted from a rose colored jade figure of the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, Kwan Yin. 1st/Sgt Edward W. Chan made the presentation of the gift to the club.
* * * * * *
Henry Was Surprised
(Note: the following item is printed without editing, just as it was submitted.)
On Tuesday night, at the Dispatcher’s Office, a surprise dinner party was tended to PFC Henry Leong, the potential running guard on the squadron quintet, in celebration of his twentieth birthday. Only his closest friends and associates attended.
Although cooking utensils and facilities wore [sic] limited, the chef and his ability, producing delectable and succulent dishes of chicken, Chinese sausage on casserole, steamed dried duck, and of course, that old standby, boils rice, which constituted the entree for the gala occasion. For the finishing touch, a white layer cake, topped with white butter frosting, on which was inscribed in chocolate allumettes and striped peppermint stick confetti, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY—HENRY” was brought out, much to the delight of the honored recipient, who also did the honors of cutting the cake.
A very good time was had by all, and for those who wish to drool, the menu is as follows:
Clear chicken broth with lettuce and egg;
Chicken giblets with broccoli, Chinese style;
Chinese sausage on casserole; Yuen Young Gai, a la Lee; Ice cream and cake.
Ain’t you hungry now?
—The Motor Pool Boys
* * * * *
“Gung Ho” Makes the News
This squadron news bulletin, born on Christmas Day, 1943, is already the most popular thing in the 407th. This popularity is attested by the fact that few copies of the “Gung Ho” are thrown away by readers and that several hundred extra copies of the first and second issues have been entirely exhausted.
All 12 Chinese-language newspapers in the U. S. have mentioned “Gung Ho” in their news sections. The San Min daily paper in Chicago went a step further and reprinted the entire Chinese section of this paper’s first number in their New Year supplement. The Patterson Field Postings, official weekly paper of Patterson Field, has also given “Gung Ho” a write ip.
And this week a movie called “Gung Ho,” produced by Walter Wanger and starring Randolph Scott, comes to the post theaters. The name “Gung Ho” is getting around.
“CHOP SUEY”
(A dish of hodge-lodge news and reasonable facsimile of same by the “Vulture” Winchell of the 407th).
…..Gosh, that basketball game played by the 407th quintet Thursday eve must have been rigged, or else a couple of the boys were a wee bit soft…for on the morning after the players limped into the Orderly Room and signed up for Sick Call. Rough game, Murphy Quan and John Leong?…..
…..Cpl Richard Gee has now formerly been introduced to Lady Nicotine…..t’other day he smoked his first cigarette..it wasn’t a Chesterfield either, but it satisfied…OH Gee!…..
…..What S/Sgt in Barracks #1 is said to have the Chinese femmes situation in Cincinnati cornered, and won’t let his pals in on it?…..And S/Sgt Gene Wong of supply certainly walks as if he’s got the world on his shoulders…he is a busy man, tho, for t’other morn he si [sic] signed up for sick call, and five minutes later returned and said he couldn’t go ’cause he had too many things to do…
…..Here’s some items from the New Year eve shindig, for the record…..200 GI’s had fun & frolic at the Loretto Club….there weren’t enough gals for the boys to dance with, but most of them managed…there were Waves & Wacs & civilian femmes…there were noisemakers a-plenty…and eats and drinks….and community sing…and there was Cpl Raymond K. Fong trying to make himself heard as he warbled “Jericho” above the din….and 1st/Sgt Chan, getting tired finally of watching his boys, stepped onto the floor with a hostess & gave his feet some needed exercises…..
…..Sgt. Grey K. Toy had a date, who was supposed to show up at the party….but he waited & waited she never did come…..while Pfc Goy Chin’s bracelet ident tag showed up in the hands of a Wac.....he said he had “lost” it during the party....izzat so?…Sgt Henry Lew enjoyed himself so much that nite, before, during and after the party, he had a two day hangover…“What a nite!” He moaned…..and boy, wasn’t it nice to see some of the Sgts on K. P. at the party?…..
…..there were all kinds of games to play, including a set of mah jong Pfc So Tak had borrowed all the way from Springfield….but nobody touched it….the boys rather play dominoes…..
…..Most of the party-going GI’s didn’t even get in till 3 or 4 ayem..on account of crowded buses…next morning the big bags under Cpl James W. Chan’s eyes were something top behold…the only bright-eyed soldier on New Year’s day seemed to be S/Sgt Lawrence Fong..he preferred to sleep & so didn’t go out at all..strictly a homebody…….so much for this…..
…..Cpl Eugene Szeto wants everybody to know he’s proud of his kid brother, Fredric, 10….on account the latter has a prominent part in a play just opened in Boston, called “Suds in Your eye”…….brother Frederic figures in a Chinatown scene…and Benson Lee, fresh out of the station hospital, went bowling t’other nite in Dayton…and scored a mere 208…and Cpl Paul Fong, decrecating [sic] his own proficiency at the game, proceeded to roll up a score of 225….such lousy players…..yeah!……
…..Sgt Charles Lum admits he has attended “Doc” Lau’s first aid lectures four times already, but still doesn’t know how many kinds of fractures there are, by gosh….incidently [sic] Charlie is the only man in the outfit who talks with a southern twang, and no kidding…no wonder, ’cause he comes from West Memphis, deep in the hill-billy state of Arkansaw [sic]….yassuh….and boys, don’t kid yourself into thinking Charlie doesn’t understand Chinese…he may not be able to speak much, but he sho’ can listen!…..
…..“Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan is now a full fledged Pfc….this dept. is preparing a portrait of this celestial now so posterity may know his likeness…..
...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!
Page 4
100 EM Cavort at Loretto Club Dance
Last week the men of the 407th made merry at a New Year’s Eve party in the hospitable atmosphere of the Loretto Club in Dayton, a Catholic women’s organization co-operating with the U.S.O. it was over the GI’s wished they could return again soon for another social.
This week that wish was realized. Right after New Year the Loretto Club extended an invitation to the unit to attend a dance and social at the same place Thursday evening. The invitation was accepted almost immediately, and in 24 hours 100 EM’s had signed up to attend. Especially after it was promised that there would be enough hostesses on hand to give every guest a chance to jive and jitter, and perchance to dance as well. Music was to be provided by a 12-piece orchestra.
The Loretto members who were mainly responsible for arranging this affair include Roberta Arbuthonot, Martha Green, Zola Strider, Maxine Shaper, Kitty and Alice Curcio.
Although this dance was an invitational affair, a slight fee was assesed [sic] each 407th EM who attended. This, however, was not for a mercenary purpose. It was for the laudable object of purchasing a gift for the Loretto in appreciation for the hospitality and courtesy its members have accorded the men of the 407th.
The gift was an oil painting entitled “Rose Goddess,” painted from a rose colored jade figure of the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, Kwan Yin. 1st/Sgt Edward W. Chan made the presentation of the gift to the club.
* * * * * *
Henry Was Surprised
(Note: the following item is printed without editing, just as it was submitted.)
On Tuesday night, at the Dispatcher’s Office, a surprise dinner party was tended to PFC Henry Leong, the potential running guard on the squadron quintet, in celebration of his twentieth birthday. Only his closest friends and associates attended.
Although cooking utensils and facilities wore [sic] limited, the chef and his ability, producing delectable and succulent dishes of chicken, Chinese sausage on casserole, steamed dried duck, and of course, that old standby, boils rice, which constituted the entree for the gala occasion. For the finishing touch, a white layer cake, topped with white butter frosting, on which was inscribed in chocolate allumettes and striped peppermint stick confetti, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY—HENRY” was brought out, much to the delight of the honored recipient, who also did the honors of cutting the cake.
A very good time was had by all, and for those who wish to drool, the menu is as follows:
Clear chicken broth with lettuce and egg;
Chicken giblets with broccoli, Chinese style;
Chinese sausage on casserole; Yuen Young Gai, a la Lee; Ice cream and cake.
Ain’t you hungry now?
—The Motor Pool Boys
* * * * *
“Gung Ho” Makes the News
This squadron news bulletin, born on Christmas Day, 1943, is already the most popular thing in the 407th. This popularity is attested by the fact that few copies of the “Gung Ho” are thrown away by readers and that several hundred extra copies of the first and second issues have been entirely exhausted.
All 12 Chinese-language newspapers in the U. S. have mentioned “Gung Ho” in their news sections. The San Min daily paper in Chicago went a step further and reprinted the entire Chinese section of this paper’s first number in their New Year supplement. The Patterson Field Postings, official weekly paper of Patterson Field, has also given “Gung Ho” a write ip.
And this week a movie called “Gung Ho,” produced by Walter Wanger and starring Randolph Scott, comes to the post theaters. The name “Gung Ho” is getting around.
GUNG HO
No. 4, January 14, 1944
Page 1
Figuring Out the 407th.
Months ago a sectional dispute flared in the squadron between EM’s hailing from New York and those originating from California. It was a long drawn out controversy, and verbal brickbats were loud and stubborn, for neither side would give in to the other. The issue was: which state had the largest representation of men in the 407th, New York or California?
This week a statistical survey was finished and the question answered. For the cold figures showed beyond a doubt that the west coast was the victorious sector. The California outnumbers the New Yorkers by close to a 3 to 1 ratio. EM’s from California accounted for 45% of the men in the squadron, while New Yorkers numbered only 17%. California won by a wide margin.
By cities, EM’s from San Francisco totaled 23%, leashing all other metropolitan centers. By states, the men hail from 26 states of the union. Beside California and New York, 38% came from such states as Arizona, Washington, Massachusetts, Indiana, R.I., N. Hampshire, Texas, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota, N. J., Mississippi, Utah, Oregon, Arkansas, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Connecticutt [sic], Florida, Montana, Georgia, and Maine.
Also, 57% of the EM’s were born in China, as against 43% born in the U.S. And 23% have had college training or are college graduates. Quite a number of men who are high school graduates are alumni of the famed Poy Jing middle school in Canton, one of the best-known institutions in South China.
*****
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Fld, Ohio. Editorial Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pvt Young Q. Ark; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Pfc Elwin W. Ong, Pvt Woo K. Leung, Cpl Eugene F. Szeto
Page 2
Squadron Insignia Wanted.
Wanted—a distinctive, decorative, and exclusive sleeve insignia for the 407th.
The call has gone out for a specially designed insignia which would be the exclusive symbol should be one which is at once simple in design yet colorful in appearance and Chinese in motif. The 14th U.S. Air Force in the China theater has recently come out with its own insignia which has the air corps star with a red dot in the center, and below it the dashing and ferocious figure of a winged Bengal tiger. This insignia made its first appearance when units of the 14th made its historic raid over Formosa recently.
Ideas, suggestions, drawings and designs are requested, It is hoped that out of the ideas of various EM’s in the squadron, one design may be found which would be accepted. A prize will be awarded the EM whose design should be chosen as the most suitable one.
So let’s put on our thinking caps, grab a pencil and paper, and start doing some doodling. The 407th wants an insignia of its own.
*****
Translator Stumped
Back in the halcyon days of civilian existence Cpl Fong Lee (who writes a splendid article in this issue’s Chinese section) was a teacher of the Chinese language, an American university student, and a translator par excellence.
But the other day a technical term came up in the engineering section which completely floored his erstwhile translating ability. It was only a simple mechanical gadget, but a mighty useful thing. Cpl Lee met his linguistic Waterloo as he stared at the instrument and scratched his befuddled cranium.
The term which stumped the translater [sic] was the cycinder [sic] hold-down packing-nut lug-wrench.
*****
Lt. Marshall Promoted—but Fast.
This week 2nd Lt Harold G. [sic] Marshall of the squadron’s engineering section received the good military tidings that he had been appointed 1st Lt.
For swift promotion what happened to Lt. Marshall was something of a record. He was a second “looey” for only 28 days when he was promoted to 1st Lt!
To Lt. Marshall—a Gung Hay!
*****
“For Our Next Number—”
Cpl Raymond K. Fong, the 407th’s one and only baritone, was a guest soloist last week at the 18th annual ball of the Cooperative Club of Dayton. This was one of several engagements he has had in that city. This coming Sunday Cpl Fong will give a program, accompanied by Pvt Jay Adams of ASC at the piano, at the Presbyterian church in Osborn.
A Californian, hailing from Bakersfield, Ray has had considerable experience on the concert stage, filling engagement all over the state. He studied drafting at the College of the Pacific, but his first love was always music, particularly the Gilbert and Sullivan variety. One of his last concerts as a civilian was given in behalf of China war relief, and netted $450 for the agency.
*****
EM’s Visit Sheffield Plant.
This week 8 GI’s spent an enjoyable and informative 3 hours touring nearby Sheffield Corporation plant, now manufacturing precision and gauge instruments for war uses. They were interested in the instruments because all 8 were from the machine shop unit of the engineering section. They were Sgt Joseph K. Lee, Cpl George Gon, Pfc, Howard Quan, Pfc Harry King, Pfc Gordon Wong, Pvt On Y. Yee, Pvt Henry Hsiang, and Pfc Ying Y. Chin.
The GI’s not only toured the plant under a special guide, but also had their pictures taken at every stop they made. They were interested in the instruments, but the photographer was interested in them.
*****
Still Another Party Planned.
As we go to press, still another squadron shindig is in the offing. The place is again the Loretto club, and the time will be Tuesday. This time it is planned to have both a supper and a dance, plus games in the game room. Entertainment by talented members of the squadron is also on the agenda. To make the party a success it is planned to invite young ladies from the University of Dayton, and the Castle Canteen of the Loretto club.
Page 3
Chop Suey
[art]
Here, at last, is a reasonable likeness of “Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan, master strategist of the No. 10 Club, chief brewer of midnight rice congee, exponent of Taoistic anarchism, singer of Chinese operatic arias, and English language elocutionist extraordinary. His accomplishments are only matched by his shortcomings, but he has a suave tongue, a ready wit, and an ingratiating manner.
…The squadron is doing all right in the matter of buying national life insurance…to date the aggregate purchase is well over two million dollars. And that, buddies, is not exactly hay……The lone promotion of the week went to Pfc Paoling Deng, who is now T/5 Deng, sir….our nomination for squadron chow hound goes to Pvt Wilbert Wong. Basis for nomination: four helping[s] during one meal!…Any other choice?…sa-ay, who had that loud nightmare in Barracks #1 t’other a.m. and scared the pajamas off Cpl Fong Lee?…And Cpl Stephen Ng tells us that he spent his last weekend in Chicago in a Chinese—church. That’s his tale anyway…but he sure looked worn out when he returned..Hmmmm…
…Seen & heard at the last squadron shindig at the Loretto: Sgt Mon K. Fong and Pfc John S. Leong, who pride themselves on their dancing (“We’re really good”) justified their boasting when they won prizes for their nimble footwork…not to mention also their cheek-to-cheek type of dancing…and 1st Sgt Chan led the parade in preventing S/Sgt James Yee from dancing with his Mrs. till the last fox-trot was played..oh, such nasty GI’s…and did you notice that Sing [sic] Y. Wong sat at a table with a hostess and gabbed for two solid hours without stop?…..altho they were 50 miles away on temporary duty in Indiana, WO Egnoski and Sgt Wm Toy dashed across the stateline and came to the party just to be sure they weren’t missing any fun…and the quartet of local gals Pvts Wong On and Woo K. Leung invited to the dance had quite a few of the boys hopping and playing tag…
…Cpl Richard Gee, usually in the pink of health, went on sick call t’other morn. Ailment: stomach cramps…but the angle of the story is this—he got the cramps from smoking his first cigar and swallowed some awful, awful tobacco juice, omigosh!
…Now for our Dept. of Romance & Similar Nonsenses: his pals want to know who’s the gal Pvt Hong J. Wong has been bowling around with in Cincinnati these past weekends?…And the question bothering Cpl Harding Wong’s slumber these nites is: will it be Ruth of Virginia?….Airmail epistles are flying these days between Sgt Andrew Kan and Lucy Lee of Detroit…while the Orderly Room long-noses want to know if it’s true that Sgt Woody Chan is married to a certain gal in Washington D.C.?....Hm…And sad to relate, S/Sgt Duey Leong, weekending in N. Y., was stood up by his date…and who was the other GI who likewise got stood up in Cleveland?……talk about lines being crossed—Cpl Hing Jee was stood up too t’other nite in town..but this isn’t the end of the story…as Jee sat eating in the Chungking eatery Cpl Fred Ko and Pvt York Q. Luke breezed in with two belles…you’ve guessed it: one of the gals was Jee’s missing date!……she was eating chow mein and he was devouring steak…but both were only playing with their food because they were so-o interested in each other…we didn’t know who she was, but he happened to be Pvt Wing S. Wong…..
Page 4
“Give Us Liberty—”
Returned to duty this week was the 10 EM and WO T.A. Egnoski who went to Liberty, Ind. Last week to dismantle a wrecked B-25. Even though it snowed and rained, and the men sloshed through water and mud daily, the work was finished on schedule. The following is a partial record of the extra-curricular doings of the EM who made up this temporary duty section.
The entire 3rd floor of the Liberty Hotel was reserved for the EM. But—there weren’t any beds. So the men curled up on the floor, Allee samee sleeping on the grounds during maneuver. However, they brought their own mattresses and blankets along, so the situation was not bad. And then at least the place was warm. M/Sgt Floyd Sam would vouch for that, for he slept next to the heater.
Sgt Hing Lo, alias the Professor, made quite a hit with the yound [sic] and old. His “Confucius says” and the way he walks attract the crowd. The professor was also the anchor man when he bowls—he weighs his team down.
In place of his usual daily calisthenics, Sgt William Toy took to rhumba, But he preferred being instructed by a certain miss even though Cpl Andrew Goon, the squadron’s Arthur Murray offered his services. But then Cpl Goon was teaching a few of the local belles at a soda fountain.
The address books of Sgts Fulton Yee, Donald Poy and Woo H. Niy are now worth confiscating. They enjoyed farming for a day under the guidance of a pretty farmerette. We didn’t catch the name, but her initials are Miss Ruth West.
Ever hear of “T” ration? That’s what the men had for breakfast Sunday morning before going to work because no restaurants were open. “T” is for tangerine.
Through the kindness of Mr. Ernest McGraw, the Short high school gym was made available for the men to play ball in.
The EM’s stay in Liberty was brief, but they will long remember the town people’s kindness and hospitality. “Give Us Liberty—!
*****
Chop Suey (cont’d from page 8)
…Pfc Harry King is probably the first GI to get his Valentine…and with money enclosed too…for that kind of a deal we’re willing to be anybody’s Valentine….nomination for most successful goldbrick: Pfc Allen Pang. But S/Sgt Larry Fong avers he’ll catch the guy yet…and before we forget, the “Gung Ho” wants to say a “Thankee” too Mrs. Mary B. Arthur and Miss Hermalee Sparks up at Hos mimeograph room…for their wonderful work in helping us to print this squadron bulletin…
…S/Sgt York M. Kai [sic] turned chef last Sunday. By request, he cooked a Chinese chow for 20 people at the Loretto club, and everybody ate so much they could hardly move afterwards….
…And as a last item for this week we have the confession of S/Sgt Lawrence Fong that he hasn’t shined his GI duds since the 1st/Sgt moved into the same staff room with him. Alibis Lawrence: “Why should I? The 1st/Sgt never shines his!” Omigosh……
*****
Confirmation
Three EM’s who are Catholics were given the sacrament of Confirmation last Sunday at the Post chapel. The trio included S/Sgt George Wong, Cpl Eugene F. Szeto, and Pfc Howe T. Jay.
Bishop Rehring, Auxiliary Bishop of Cincinnati, was present to administer the sacrament, considered one of the most important religious ceremonies in the Catholic Church.
*****
[Box]
“No Can Do”
He had one arm son the wheel
T’was quite a joyful ride—
For his other arm was wrapped around.
His sweetie by his side.
“Use both your hands,” a copper cried,
In a voice that sounded far.
“No can do” replied the driver,
“I have to drive the car!”
—Pfc Stanley Tom
GUNG HO
No. 5, January 21, 1944
Page 1
[cartoon by Yow R. Chinn]
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Field, Ohio. Editorial Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pvt Young Q. Ark; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Pfc Elwin W. Ong, Pvt Woo K. Leung, Cpl Eugene F. Szeto
Page 2
Squadron Party Huge Success.
One more squadron party was held last Tuesday in the spacious clubrooms of the Loretto Club in Dayton. Consisting of a Chinese dinner and dance, it was arranged and prepared in a matter of 48 hours. Yet it turned out to be the best party so far given by the 407th. This was the consensus of opinion of both the EM’s and their guests.
Some 350 persons, including 150 guests, enjoyed themselves on the specially prepared 5-course Chinese dinner, which, incidentally, was cooked in our own mess and rushed by truck into town. To many of the guests the men of the 407th were the first Chinese-Americans they had ever met and talked with. Thus the development of Sino-American friendship also became an element of this party, though few were actually aware of it.
The guests, mainly ladies, came from many civilian and armed service organizations. The entire contingent of men and women of the Royal Canadian Air Force, now in training near Dayton, was present, colorful in they snappy uniforms of blue. There were many WAC’s and WAVE’s. There were young ladies of the Loretto Club, the Castle Canteen, the Catholic Young People’s Club of Dayton, the Catholic Business Women’s Club and the Black friars’ Guild. Present also are Chinese students from the University of Dayton.
Other guests included Father Ralph Schroeder of the Catholic Charities, Brother Jannings and Father Bruder of the University of Dayton, recently returned from China; Margaret Ryan, president of the Catholic Business Women’s Club, Mr. and Mrs. Connair of the Charmiade high school PTA, Mr. John Weaver, president of the Loretto League, and Mrs John Weaver, president of the Blackfriars’ Guild.
The five-course dinner consisted of Siu Choy soup, ham fried rice[,] egg fooyong, Chinese fried chicken[,]almond and forturn [sic] cookies. It was whipped up in a matter of hours by available culinary experts of the 407th, Cpls Chung Quan and George Soo Hoo, Sgt. Joe Louis, Pfc’s Sew H. Chan, Gin Wong, Pong L. Wong and Chin F. Ying.
Thanks are due to the committee of Loretto club’s hostesses, whose efficient work in decorating, checking and ushering contributed much to make the party a success. With Miss Roberta Arbuthnot in charge, the group consisted of Alice Curcio[,] Ann Sbrocchi, Jessie Skaleski, Martha Gagnon, Martha Green, Bernadine Brown, Irene Nugent, Dorothy Wenzel, Loretta Thompson, and Maxine Shaper.
Doing their part in making the preliminary arrangements was the 407th’s own committee which included S/Sgt York M. Kai [sic], Cpls. Stephen Ng and William Hoy. With the exception of the Pfc’s and the Pvts, all EM’s of the unit did their share of work before, during and after the party.
It was a great party!
(For sidelights of this party, see “Chop Suey” column).
*****
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.
Page 3
Squadron Album Planned.
Do you have any candid or action snapshots of yourself and your buddies, taken since you joined the 407th?
If so, we’d like you to contribute as many as you can to us, because we want them for a special purpose. We want as many of such snaps as we can possibly get to be mounted in a squadron historical record album now being planned.
At the present time most of the pictures collected have been those taken of the 407th personnel during their bivouac near Sidney some months ago. There are also some which show EM’s at work in the various technical sections. Coming in soon are several pictures taken at the last squadron party.
But we need many, many more snaps of the individuals in the unit in order to make a really complete album which will reflect the men and activities of the 407th. We know that all the snaps you taken of yourself while in the service are very precious to you, and justly so, but if you can spare us a few prints we will be able to plan and make up a visual record of the unit which would be precious to us all.
So bring us your snaps and help fill this squadron historical album.
*****
Chinese New Year is Coming!
Just for the record—and also because some of the men have been asking us about the date—Chinese New Year is almost upon us. The date is next Tuesday, January 25th.
On that particular date, according to the ancient Chinese soli-lunar calendar, it will herald the 4641st year of China since the reign of Huang Ti, the first Yellow Emperor. For those who follow the Confucian chronology, it will be the 2485th year since the birth of Confucius, China’s most revered sage.
It will also commence the China Shen Nin ( ) of the present Sexagenary cycle. Each of these cycles lasts 60 years, and the current cycle is the 78th one.
It will also be the Year of the Monkey, this being the horological animal for the year. The zodiacal character is Sagittarius. The New Year—First Day of the First Moon—will be ushered in at the Hour of the Rat.
Have we made ourselves clear? Anyway, here’s hail to the Chinese New Year! Now, if we were home—But what are we dreaming about?
*****
More Insignia Designs Wanted.
Since last week some half a dozen designs for a squadron insignia have been submitted for consideration. The ideas on those designs ranged from airplane wheels to wings and stars. They are all good designs, but more are needed so that we may have a wide variety for selection. We know that many of the men have good ideas for a design in their heads, but haven’t had the time to put them down on paper. But there’s still time, so why not draw your ideas up and submit them as soon as possible? Let’s get that pencil & paper working!
*****
“G-U-N-G H-O”
means
“Work Together”
Page 4
4 EM Become American Citizens.
Until last week Sgt Hing B. Lo, Cpl Paoling Deng, Pfc’s Mee Lun Lee and Henry G. Wong (13) were citizens of the Republic of China, though all of them have been in the U. S. Army for many months, one as long as 1 and a half years.
But last Friday the picture changed for this quartet of young Cantonese. In the courtroom of Federal District Judge Robert R. Nevin, in Dayton, these EM’s took their oaths of naturalization and became full-fledged U. S. Citizens. Looking at these new citizens, snappy in their uniforms of the U. S. Army, Judge Nevin decided it was not necessary to give these men his usual talk on the obligations of Citizenship on such an occasion. For these men were already assuming the obligation of citizenship of their newly adopted country.
Of the 4 men, Cpl Deng was the only one who also took this opportunity to change his Chinese name from Paoling into that of Bert. Cpl Deng hails from the Sun Hing district of Kwongtung province, and has been in the service since June, 1943.
Sgt Hing Lo, whose ancestral hearth is the Sam Yup district, although he was born in Hong Kong, has also been in the Army since June 1943.
Pfc’s Mee L. Lee and Henry G. Wong are natives of Toyshan district, which furnish most of the Cantonese immigrants to this country. Lee was inducted in April 1943, and Wong in June of the same year.
*****
More Casaba Tussles.
Last week and early this week the squadron basketball team played its 8th and 9th games in the current Patterson Field intra-squadron casaba series.
Playing against the 923rd Guard Squadron last Friday night, our team came through with a victory, the score being 28 to 26. The final did not indicate that the 407th team led their opponents throughout the game. The staring line-up included Murphy Quan, Peter K. Gee, Ben Louie, Henry Wong (13), and Henry Leong, with Murphy scoring 16 points to become high point man.
Monday night, playing against Aviation Sq “B”, the opposing team won by a score of 29 to 25. The starting line-up was almost the same, the change being the inclusion of Albert Fong, who took Henry Leong’s place. Again Murphy Quan was high point man, coming through with 11 points.
Next Monday the 407th team will play its 10th game in this series, with the Base Hospital team as opponents. The following night the team will play a separate game against the 3511th Serv Unit, Military Dept., University of Dayton. The latter is an ASTP unit, and reported to consist of fast and expert tossers. The game will be played at the university gymnasium.
*****
Free Concert Tickets Available
This coming Sunday afternoon the second of a series of free USO concerts will be given at the Memorial Hall in Dayton. The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will play, and the guest solist [sic] will be the famous pianist Leonard Shure.
The program will begin at 2:30 PM. A number of tickets are available to the 407th, and each EM may bring one civilian guest. For those wishing to attend this concert please see Cpl William J. Hoy got tickets. But do so before 5 PM Saturday.
Page 5
“CHOP SUEY”
…..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…..
…..And Pfc Wah Louie, who doesn’t blow either the ocarina or the tonette, is rumored to be a violinist, a trumpeteer [sic], a saxophone tooter….and can play both Chinese and swing music….Is true?…..
…..Sa-ay, we hear S/Sgt Kim Jung is looking for a girdle!…for why?…..And Cpl Harding Wong has made his final decision…it’s to be Virginia….Now it’s Sgt Tommy Yee who’s in a daze….the cause is a pretty named Patricia, and she lives in Dee-troit…..
….Postal Packin’ Papa Cpl Mack Pong tells us the guy who receives the most mail seems to be Pvt Wing S. Wong…..
….Any time you want to play Chinese checkers you can look up Cpl Richard Gee…he’s a champion…at least in the engineering office…..
...Sgt Woody Chan, pill roller of the outfit isn’t married....yet. But he sho’ is going to soon enough...his engagement ring is adorning the finger of Frances Wong of Washington D.C.....and Woooy [sic] has decided to plug in his personal phone calls wlsewhere [sic] than the orderly room...on account there’s been too many parties mooching on on his calls....
(Continued on Page 6)
[cartoon]
Static in the engineering office.
Page 6
More “CHOP SUEY”
…And to the party who doesn’t know what EM means, it stands for enlisted men….
….Now for some sidelights and sundry trivia gleaned from the squadron shindig Tuesday eve at the Loretto….It was a servicemen’s dream, with the gals outnumbering the men…you just had to be there to believe it..the percentage of jitterbuggers, however, was low, according to some young ’uns from the U. of Dayton…but international relations were served by Pfc Howard Loo and Pfc Robert Jung, who were doing their duty by the RCAF feminine contingent….while Cpl William Hing talked amid the party noise to an interested AVE…..On the other hand, Cpl Stanley Chinn seems a trifle confused by a WAC, or was it because he’s so bashful?…..
….A bit of Chinese culture in one easy lesson seemed to have been provided by Pvt Harry Lim…he was so-o busy explaining the intricacies of Chinese calligraphic art to a pretty miss….and using the table cloth….while in another corner Sgts George Shue and Andy Kan, Cpls Elwood Lew and Fred Ko, Pfc’s Harry King and Albert FL Fong, Pvts York Q. Luke and Yee T. Yook scribbled autographs in Chinese and American to a group of lassies…whereas Cpl Fong Lee found the party too noisesome [sic] and pointless to him…his scholarly dignity was ruffled by too many feminine giggles….and he would much have preferred a forum anyway…..
…There were even a few young Chinese women at the affair…and they are a rarity in these here parts…Aurora [?]ay was the unusual name of one them…she hailed from Cuba, that’s why….there were Mrs. Daisy Moy, Mrs. Ida Wong, and Miss Bo-jun Wong…and don’t think the boys didn’t appreciate their presence….ask Sgt Charlie Lum for details…yeah, just ask…
…1st Lt Marshall attended a 407th squadron party for the first time that nite…and enjoyed himself as well….so did Capt “Doc” Lau, who kept at least one young lady interested for quite a while..yessir……but why did Sgt Kim Jung have to cut in so many times on the dance floor?….
….Sgt Mon K. Fong (Pinochio [sic] for short), walked in late…a feminine voice cried: “HELLO, WOLF!”…was his face red? Weshouldsayso!….
…There weren’t enough trays to carry all the food to the tables…so a few of the non-coms exhibited their table-waiting dexterity…one GI managed six platefuls on his arms..and was a hero during the serving of the dinner.
…And before we leave off this batch of sidelights we must mention the fact that the members of the Catholic Business Women’s Club who attended the party were so pleased with it they decided to perform a deed of charity….they wrote out a check for thirty American dollars to be used for Chinese war relief…a generous, Christian, and altogether magnificent gesture….
…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 (continued next page)
Page 7
called quite….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….’tis only fair to add that hovering in the background of all this was ye editor of “Gung Ho”…Hoho…
AND IN THIS CORNER—
“Chinese Talk.”
(Courtesy of Lt. H.J. Redding, who likes Chinese poetry, if it’s all written like the following).
Nice night
In June
Stars shine
Big moon
In Park
On bench
With girl
In clinch
Me say
Me love
She coo
Like dove
Me smart
Me fast
Never let
Chance pass
Get hitched
Me say
She say
Okay
Wedding bells
Ring! Ring!
Everything
Settle down
Married life
Happy man
Happy wife
Another night
In June
Stars shine
Big moon
Ain’t happy
No more
Carry baby
walk floor
Wife mad
She fuss
Me mad
Me cuss
Life one
Big spat
Nagging wife
Bawling brat
Realize
At last
Me too
Damn fast!
****
Kathleen
I’m working right now on a beaut,
And O boy—my baby’s cute!
She’s such a heavenly creature,
That I want you to meet her.
Her form is shapely, glamorous,
Tall, slender—just amorous.
A picture of beauty that’s rare,
Charming, graceful, debonair…..
Not of this earth is this creature fair,
She belongs way up in the air.
Yes, she’s an angel, this gal of mine
A celestial sight—divine.
My heart, my soul, my joy, my pride,
’Twas from her—I got my first ride.
Her name? Why, she’s just Kathleen,
Model F of a B-17.
Pfc Stanley Tom
Squadron Insignia Wanted.
Wanted—a distinctive, decorative, and exclusive sleeve insignia for the 407th.
The call has gone out for a specially designed insignia which would be the exclusive symbol should be one which is at once simple in design yet colorful in appearance and Chinese in motif. The 14th U.S. Air Force in the China theater has recently come out with its own insignia which has the air corps star with a red dot in the center, and below it the dashing and ferocious figure of a winged Bengal tiger. This insignia made its first appearance when units of the 14th made its historic raid over Formosa recently.
Ideas, suggestions, drawings and designs are requested, It is hoped that out of the ideas of various EM’s in the squadron, one design may be found which would be accepted. A prize will be awarded the EM whose design should be chosen as the most suitable one.
So let’s put on our thinking caps, grab a pencil and paper, and start doing some doodling. The 407th wants an insignia of its own.
*****
Translator Stumped
Back in the halcyon days of civilian existence Cpl Fong Lee (who writes a splendid article in this issue’s Chinese section) was a teacher of the Chinese language, an American university student, and a translator par excellence.
But the other day a technical term came up in the engineering section which completely floored his erstwhile translating ability. It was only a simple mechanical gadget, but a mighty useful thing. Cpl Lee met his linguistic Waterloo as he stared at the instrument and scratched his befuddled cranium.
The term which stumped the translater [sic] was the cycinder [sic] hold-down packing-nut lug-wrench.
*****
Lt. Marshall Promoted—but Fast.
This week 2nd Lt Harold G. [sic] Marshall of the squadron’s engineering section received the good military tidings that he had been appointed 1st Lt.
For swift promotion what happened to Lt. Marshall was something of a record. He was a second “looey” for only 28 days when he was promoted to 1st Lt!
To Lt. Marshall—a Gung Hay!
*****
“For Our Next Number—”
Cpl Raymond K. Fong, the 407th’s one and only baritone, was a guest soloist last week at the 18th annual ball of the Cooperative Club of Dayton. This was one of several engagements he has had in that city. This coming Sunday Cpl Fong will give a program, accompanied by Pvt Jay Adams of ASC at the piano, at the Presbyterian church in Osborn.
A Californian, hailing from Bakersfield, Ray has had considerable experience on the concert stage, filling engagement all over the state. He studied drafting at the College of the Pacific, but his first love was always music, particularly the Gilbert and Sullivan variety. One of his last concerts as a civilian was given in behalf of China war relief, and netted $450 for the agency.
*****
EM’s Visit Sheffield Plant.
This week 8 GI’s spent an enjoyable and informative 3 hours touring nearby Sheffield Corporation plant, now manufacturing precision and gauge instruments for war uses. They were interested in the instruments because all 8 were from the machine shop unit of the engineering section. They were Sgt Joseph K. Lee, Cpl George Gon, Pfc, Howard Quan, Pfc Harry King, Pfc Gordon Wong, Pvt On Y. Yee, Pvt Henry Hsiang, and Pfc Ying Y. Chin.
The GI’s not only toured the plant under a special guide, but also had their pictures taken at every stop they made. They were interested in the instruments, but the photographer was interested in them.
*****
Still Another Party Planned.
As we go to press, still another squadron shindig is in the offing. The place is again the Loretto club, and the time will be Tuesday. This time it is planned to have both a supper and a dance, plus games in the game room. Entertainment by talented members of the squadron is also on the agenda. To make the party a success it is planned to invite young ladies from the University of Dayton, and the Castle Canteen of the Loretto club.
Page 3
Chop Suey
[art]
Here, at last, is a reasonable likeness of “Field Marshal” Chung L. Quan, master strategist of the No. 10 Club, chief brewer of midnight rice congee, exponent of Taoistic anarchism, singer of Chinese operatic arias, and English language elocutionist extraordinary. His accomplishments are only matched by his shortcomings, but he has a suave tongue, a ready wit, and an ingratiating manner.
…The squadron is doing all right in the matter of buying national life insurance…to date the aggregate purchase is well over two million dollars. And that, buddies, is not exactly hay……The lone promotion of the week went to Pfc Paoling Deng, who is now T/5 Deng, sir….our nomination for squadron chow hound goes to Pvt Wilbert Wong. Basis for nomination: four helping[s] during one meal!…Any other choice?…sa-ay, who had that loud nightmare in Barracks #1 t’other a.m. and scared the pajamas off Cpl Fong Lee?…And Cpl Stephen Ng tells us that he spent his last weekend in Chicago in a Chinese—church. That’s his tale anyway…but he sure looked worn out when he returned..Hmmmm…
…Seen & heard at the last squadron shindig at the Loretto: Sgt Mon K. Fong and Pfc John S. Leong, who pride themselves on their dancing (“We’re really good”) justified their boasting when they won prizes for their nimble footwork…not to mention also their cheek-to-cheek type of dancing…and 1st Sgt Chan led the parade in preventing S/Sgt James Yee from dancing with his Mrs. till the last fox-trot was played..oh, such nasty GI’s…and did you notice that Sing [sic] Y. Wong sat at a table with a hostess and gabbed for two solid hours without stop?…..altho they were 50 miles away on temporary duty in Indiana, WO Egnoski and Sgt Wm Toy dashed across the stateline and came to the party just to be sure they weren’t missing any fun…and the quartet of local gals Pvts Wong On and Woo K. Leung invited to the dance had quite a few of the boys hopping and playing tag…
…Cpl Richard Gee, usually in the pink of health, went on sick call t’other morn. Ailment: stomach cramps…but the angle of the story is this—he got the cramps from smoking his first cigar and swallowed some awful, awful tobacco juice, omigosh!
…Now for our Dept. of Romance & Similar Nonsenses: his pals want to know who’s the gal Pvt Hong J. Wong has been bowling around with in Cincinnati these past weekends?…And the question bothering Cpl Harding Wong’s slumber these nites is: will it be Ruth of Virginia?….Airmail epistles are flying these days between Sgt Andrew Kan and Lucy Lee of Detroit…while the Orderly Room long-noses want to know if it’s true that Sgt Woody Chan is married to a certain gal in Washington D.C.?....Hm…And sad to relate, S/Sgt Duey Leong, weekending in N. Y., was stood up by his date…and who was the other GI who likewise got stood up in Cleveland?……talk about lines being crossed—Cpl Hing Jee was stood up too t’other nite in town..but this isn’t the end of the story…as Jee sat eating in the Chungking eatery Cpl Fred Ko and Pvt York Q. Luke breezed in with two belles…you’ve guessed it: one of the gals was Jee’s missing date!……she was eating chow mein and he was devouring steak…but both were only playing with their food because they were so-o interested in each other…we didn’t know who she was, but he happened to be Pvt Wing S. Wong…..
Page 4
“Give Us Liberty—”
Returned to duty this week was the 10 EM and WO T.A. Egnoski who went to Liberty, Ind. Last week to dismantle a wrecked B-25. Even though it snowed and rained, and the men sloshed through water and mud daily, the work was finished on schedule. The following is a partial record of the extra-curricular doings of the EM who made up this temporary duty section.
The entire 3rd floor of the Liberty Hotel was reserved for the EM. But—there weren’t any beds. So the men curled up on the floor, Allee samee sleeping on the grounds during maneuver. However, they brought their own mattresses and blankets along, so the situation was not bad. And then at least the place was warm. M/Sgt Floyd Sam would vouch for that, for he slept next to the heater.
Sgt Hing Lo, alias the Professor, made quite a hit with the yound [sic] and old. His “Confucius says” and the way he walks attract the crowd. The professor was also the anchor man when he bowls—he weighs his team down.
In place of his usual daily calisthenics, Sgt William Toy took to rhumba, But he preferred being instructed by a certain miss even though Cpl Andrew Goon, the squadron’s Arthur Murray offered his services. But then Cpl Goon was teaching a few of the local belles at a soda fountain.
The address books of Sgts Fulton Yee, Donald Poy and Woo H. Niy are now worth confiscating. They enjoyed farming for a day under the guidance of a pretty farmerette. We didn’t catch the name, but her initials are Miss Ruth West.
Ever hear of “T” ration? That’s what the men had for breakfast Sunday morning before going to work because no restaurants were open. “T” is for tangerine.
Through the kindness of Mr. Ernest McGraw, the Short high school gym was made available for the men to play ball in.
The EM’s stay in Liberty was brief, but they will long remember the town people’s kindness and hospitality. “Give Us Liberty—!
*****
Chop Suey (cont’d from page 8)
…Pfc Harry King is probably the first GI to get his Valentine…and with money enclosed too…for that kind of a deal we’re willing to be anybody’s Valentine….nomination for most successful goldbrick: Pfc Allen Pang. But S/Sgt Larry Fong avers he’ll catch the guy yet…and before we forget, the “Gung Ho” wants to say a “Thankee” too Mrs. Mary B. Arthur and Miss Hermalee Sparks up at Hos mimeograph room…for their wonderful work in helping us to print this squadron bulletin…
…S/Sgt York M. Kai [sic] turned chef last Sunday. By request, he cooked a Chinese chow for 20 people at the Loretto club, and everybody ate so much they could hardly move afterwards….
…And as a last item for this week we have the confession of S/Sgt Lawrence Fong that he hasn’t shined his GI duds since the 1st/Sgt moved into the same staff room with him. Alibis Lawrence: “Why should I? The 1st/Sgt never shines his!” Omigosh……
*****
Confirmation
Three EM’s who are Catholics were given the sacrament of Confirmation last Sunday at the Post chapel. The trio included S/Sgt George Wong, Cpl Eugene F. Szeto, and Pfc Howe T. Jay.
Bishop Rehring, Auxiliary Bishop of Cincinnati, was present to administer the sacrament, considered one of the most important religious ceremonies in the Catholic Church.
*****
[Box]
“No Can Do”
He had one arm son the wheel
T’was quite a joyful ride—
For his other arm was wrapped around.
His sweetie by his side.
“Use both your hands,” a copper cried,
In a voice that sounded far.
“No can do” replied the driver,
“I have to drive the car!”
—Pfc Stanley Tom
GUNG HO
No. 5, January 21, 1944
Page 1
[cartoon by Yow R. Chinn]
[Staff Box]
“GUNG HO” is published by and for the enlisted personnel of the 407th Service Squadron, AC, Patterson Field, Ohio. Editorial Staff: Editor, Cpl William J. Hoy; Chinese Section Contributing Editor, Pvt Young Q. Ark; Staff Artist, Cpl Yow R. Chinn; Editorial Assistants, Cpl James G. Jay, Pfc Elwin W. Ong, Pvt Woo K. Leung, Cpl Eugene F. Szeto
Page 2
Squadron Party Huge Success.
One more squadron party was held last Tuesday in the spacious clubrooms of the Loretto Club in Dayton. Consisting of a Chinese dinner and dance, it was arranged and prepared in a matter of 48 hours. Yet it turned out to be the best party so far given by the 407th. This was the consensus of opinion of both the EM’s and their guests.
Some 350 persons, including 150 guests, enjoyed themselves on the specially prepared 5-course Chinese dinner, which, incidentally, was cooked in our own mess and rushed by truck into town. To many of the guests the men of the 407th were the first Chinese-Americans they had ever met and talked with. Thus the development of Sino-American friendship also became an element of this party, though few were actually aware of it.
The guests, mainly ladies, came from many civilian and armed service organizations. The entire contingent of men and women of the Royal Canadian Air Force, now in training near Dayton, was present, colorful in they snappy uniforms of blue. There were many WAC’s and WAVE’s. There were young ladies of the Loretto Club, the Castle Canteen, the Catholic Young People’s Club of Dayton, the Catholic Business Women’s Club and the Black friars’ Guild. Present also are Chinese students from the University of Dayton.
Other guests included Father Ralph Schroeder of the Catholic Charities, Brother Jannings and Father Bruder of the University of Dayton, recently returned from China; Margaret Ryan, president of the Catholic Business Women’s Club, Mr. and Mrs. Connair of the Charmiade high school PTA, Mr. John Weaver, president of the Loretto League, and Mrs John Weaver, president of the Blackfriars’ Guild.
The five-course dinner consisted of Siu Choy soup, ham fried rice[,] egg fooyong, Chinese fried chicken[,]almond and forturn [sic] cookies. It was whipped up in a matter of hours by available culinary experts of the 407th, Cpls Chung Quan and George Soo Hoo, Sgt. Joe Louis, Pfc’s Sew H. Chan, Gin Wong, Pong L. Wong and Chin F. Ying.
Thanks are due to the committee of Loretto club’s hostesses, whose efficient work in decorating, checking and ushering contributed much to make the party a success. With Miss Roberta Arbuthnot in charge, the group consisted of Alice Curcio[,] Ann Sbrocchi, Jessie Skaleski, Martha Gagnon, Martha Green, Bernadine Brown, Irene Nugent, Dorothy Wenzel, Loretta Thompson, and Maxine Shaper.
Doing their part in making the preliminary arrangements was the 407th’s own committee which included S/Sgt York M. Kai [sic], Cpls. Stephen Ng and William Hoy. With the exception of the Pfc’s and the Pvts, all EM’s of the unit did their share of work before, during and after the party.
It was a great party!
(For sidelights of this party, see “Chop Suey” column).
*****
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.
Page 3
Squadron Album Planned.
Do you have any candid or action snapshots of yourself and your buddies, taken since you joined the 407th?
If so, we’d like you to contribute as many as you can to us, because we want them for a special purpose. We want as many of such snaps as we can possibly get to be mounted in a squadron historical record album now being planned.
At the present time most of the pictures collected have been those taken of the 407th personnel during their bivouac near Sidney some months ago. There are also some which show EM’s at work in the various technical sections. Coming in soon are several pictures taken at the last squadron party.
But we need many, many more snaps of the individuals in the unit in order to make a really complete album which will reflect the men and activities of the 407th. We know that all the snaps you taken of yourself while in the service are very precious to you, and justly so, but if you can spare us a few prints we will be able to plan and make up a visual record of the unit which would be precious to us all.
So bring us your snaps and help fill this squadron historical album.
*****
Chinese New Year is Coming!
Just for the record—and also because some of the men have been asking us about the date—Chinese New Year is almost upon us. The date is next Tuesday, January 25th.
On that particular date, according to the ancient Chinese soli-lunar calendar, it will herald the 4641st year of China since the reign of Huang Ti, the first Yellow Emperor. For those who follow the Confucian chronology, it will be the 2485th year since the birth of Confucius, China’s most revered sage.
It will also commence the China Shen Nin ( ) of the present Sexagenary cycle. Each of these cycles lasts 60 years, and the current cycle is the 78th one.
It will also be the Year of the Monkey, this being the horological animal for the year. The zodiacal character is Sagittarius. The New Year—First Day of the First Moon—will be ushered in at the Hour of the Rat.
Have we made ourselves clear? Anyway, here’s hail to the Chinese New Year! Now, if we were home—But what are we dreaming about?
*****
More Insignia Designs Wanted.
Since last week some half a dozen designs for a squadron insignia have been submitted for consideration. The ideas on those designs ranged from airplane wheels to wings and stars. They are all good designs, but more are needed so that we may have a wide variety for selection. We know that many of the men have good ideas for a design in their heads, but haven’t had the time to put them down on paper. But there’s still time, so why not draw your ideas up and submit them as soon as possible? Let’s get that pencil & paper working!
*****
“G-U-N-G H-O”
means
“Work Together”
Page 4
4 EM Become American Citizens.
Until last week Sgt Hing B. Lo, Cpl Paoling Deng, Pfc’s Mee Lun Lee and Henry G. Wong (13) were citizens of the Republic of China, though all of them have been in the U. S. Army for many months, one as long as 1 and a half years.
But last Friday the picture changed for this quartet of young Cantonese. In the courtroom of Federal District Judge Robert R. Nevin, in Dayton, these EM’s took their oaths of naturalization and became full-fledged U. S. Citizens. Looking at these new citizens, snappy in their uniforms of the U. S. Army, Judge Nevin decided it was not necessary to give these men his usual talk on the obligations of Citizenship on such an occasion. For these men were already assuming the obligation of citizenship of their newly adopted country.
Of the 4 men, Cpl Deng was the only one who also took this opportunity to change his Chinese name from Paoling into that of Bert. Cpl Deng hails from the Sun Hing district of Kwongtung province, and has been in the service since June, 1943.
Sgt Hing Lo, whose ancestral hearth is the Sam Yup district, although he was born in Hong Kong, has also been in the Army since June 1943.
Pfc’s Mee L. Lee and Henry G. Wong are natives of Toyshan district, which furnish most of the Cantonese immigrants to this country. Lee was inducted in April 1943, and Wong in June of the same year.
*****
More Casaba Tussles.
Last week and early this week the squadron basketball team played its 8th and 9th games in the current Patterson Field intra-squadron casaba series.
Playing against the 923rd Guard Squadron last Friday night, our team came through with a victory, the score being 28 to 26. The final did not indicate that the 407th team led their opponents throughout the game. The staring line-up included Murphy Quan, Peter K. Gee, Ben Louie, Henry Wong (13), and Henry Leong, with Murphy scoring 16 points to become high point man.
Monday night, playing against Aviation Sq “B”, the opposing team won by a score of 29 to 25. The starting line-up was almost the same, the change being the inclusion of Albert Fong, who took Henry Leong’s place. Again Murphy Quan was high point man, coming through with 11 points.
Next Monday the 407th team will play its 10th game in this series, with the Base Hospital team as opponents. The following night the team will play a separate game against the 3511th Serv Unit, Military Dept., University of Dayton. The latter is an ASTP unit, and reported to consist of fast and expert tossers. The game will be played at the university gymnasium.
*****
Free Concert Tickets Available
This coming Sunday afternoon the second of a series of free USO concerts will be given at the Memorial Hall in Dayton. The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra will play, and the guest solist [sic] will be the famous pianist Leonard Shure.
The program will begin at 2:30 PM. A number of tickets are available to the 407th, and each EM may bring one civilian guest. For those wishing to attend this concert please see Cpl William J. Hoy got tickets. But do so before 5 PM Saturday.
Page 5
“CHOP SUEY”
…..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…..
…..And Pfc Wah Louie, who doesn’t blow either the ocarina or the tonette, is rumored to be a violinist, a trumpeteer [sic], a saxophone tooter….and can play both Chinese and swing music….Is true?…..
…..Sa-ay, we hear S/Sgt Kim Jung is looking for a girdle!…for why?…..And Cpl Harding Wong has made his final decision…it’s to be Virginia….Now it’s Sgt Tommy Yee who’s in a daze….the cause is a pretty named Patricia, and she lives in Dee-troit…..
….Postal Packin’ Papa Cpl Mack Pong tells us the guy who receives the most mail seems to be Pvt Wing S. Wong…..
….Any time you want to play Chinese checkers you can look up Cpl Richard Gee…he’s a champion…at least in the engineering office…..
...Sgt Woody Chan, pill roller of the outfit isn’t married....yet. But he sho’ is going to soon enough...his engagement ring is adorning the finger of Frances Wong of Washington D.C.....and Woooy [sic] has decided to plug in his personal phone calls wlsewhere [sic] than the orderly room...on account there’s been too many parties mooching on on his calls....
(Continued on Page 6)
[cartoon]
Static in the engineering office.
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More “CHOP SUEY”
…And to the party who doesn’t know what EM means, it stands for enlisted men….
….Now for some sidelights and sundry trivia gleaned from the squadron shindig Tuesday eve at the Loretto….It was a servicemen’s dream, with the gals outnumbering the men…you just had to be there to believe it..the percentage of jitterbuggers, however, was low, according to some young ’uns from the U. of Dayton…but international relations were served by Pfc Howard Loo and Pfc Robert Jung, who were doing their duty by the RCAF feminine contingent….while Cpl William Hing talked amid the party noise to an interested AVE…..On the other hand, Cpl Stanley Chinn seems a trifle confused by a WAC, or was it because he’s so bashful?…..
….A bit of Chinese culture in one easy lesson seemed to have been provided by Pvt Harry Lim…he was so-o busy explaining the intricacies of Chinese calligraphic art to a pretty miss….and using the table cloth….while in another corner Sgts George Shue and Andy Kan, Cpls Elwood Lew and Fred Ko, Pfc’s Harry King and Albert FL Fong, Pvts York Q. Luke and Yee T. Yook scribbled autographs in Chinese and American to a group of lassies…whereas Cpl Fong Lee found the party too noisesome [sic] and pointless to him…his scholarly dignity was ruffled by too many feminine giggles….and he would much have preferred a forum anyway…..
…There were even a few young Chinese women at the affair…and they are a rarity in these here parts…Aurora [?]ay was the unusual name of one them…she hailed from Cuba, that’s why….there were Mrs. Daisy Moy, Mrs. Ida Wong, and Miss Bo-jun Wong…and don’t think the boys didn’t appreciate their presence….ask Sgt Charlie Lum for details…yeah, just ask…
…1st Lt Marshall attended a 407th squadron party for the first time that nite…and enjoyed himself as well….so did Capt “Doc” Lau, who kept at least one young lady interested for quite a while..yessir……but why did Sgt Kim Jung have to cut in so many times on the dance floor?….
….Sgt Mon K. Fong (Pinochio [sic] for short), walked in late…a feminine voice cried: “HELLO, WOLF!”…was his face red? Weshouldsayso!….
…There weren’t enough trays to carry all the food to the tables…so a few of the non-coms exhibited their table-waiting dexterity…one GI managed six platefuls on his arms..and was a hero during the serving of the dinner.
…And before we leave off this batch of sidelights we must mention the fact that the members of the Catholic Business Women’s Club who attended the party were so pleased with it they decided to perform a deed of charity….they wrote out a check for thirty American dollars to be used for Chinese war relief…a generous, Christian, and altogether magnificent gesture….
…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 (continued next page)
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called quite….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….’tis only fair to add that hovering in the background of all this was ye editor of “Gung Ho”…Hoho…
AND IN THIS CORNER—
“Chinese Talk.”
(Courtesy of Lt. H.J. Redding, who likes Chinese poetry, if it’s all written like the following).
Nice night
In June
Stars shine
Big moon
In Park
On bench
With girl
In clinch
Me say
Me love
She coo
Like dove
Me smart
Me fast
Never let
Chance pass
Get hitched
Me say
She say
Okay
Wedding bells
Ring! Ring!
Everything
Settle down
Married life
Happy man
Happy wife
Another night
In June
Stars shine
Big moon
Ain’t happy
No more
Carry baby
walk floor
Wife mad
She fuss
Me mad
Me cuss
Life one
Big spat
Nagging wife
Bawling brat
Realize
At last
Me too
Damn fast!
****
Kathleen
I’m working right now on a beaut,
And O boy—my baby’s cute!
She’s such a heavenly creature,
That I want you to meet her.
Her form is shapely, glamorous,
Tall, slender—just amorous.
A picture of beauty that’s rare,
Charming, graceful, debonair…..
Not of this earth is this creature fair,
She belongs way up in the air.
Yes, she’s an angel, this gal of mine
A celestial sight—divine.
My heart, my soul, my joy, my pride,
’Twas from her—I got my first ride.
Her name? Why, she’s just Kathleen,
Model F of a B-17.
Pfc Stanley Tom
(Next post Group 32: Gung Ho 6–10)
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