Veteran's name: Regis Mcguigan
Military branch: Army
Years of service: 1941 to 1945
Photo and description submitted by: Gary Ablauf
Regis Mcguigan (and sister Helen Regis) fought in Normandy.
Salute to Our Veterans
November 7, 2024
In honor of Veterans Day, GBU compiled a blog featuring those who have served our country. GBU members were invited to share stories of the veterans in their lives, helping to honor their service and sacrifices and ensuring their legacy is remembered and celebrated. We appreciate your contribution in helping us pay tribute to these brave individuals.
Veteran's name: Francis Ablauf
Military branch: Army
Photo and description submitted by: Francis Ablauf
This is my dad and his friend John Sedlock from Ohio before being shipped off to Europe.
Veteran's name: Albert Sideritch
Military branch: Army, Corporal
Photo and description submitted by: Rachel Cummins
Served in the Korean War.
Veteran's name: George P. Kulin, Sr.
Military branch: Army Technician Fifth Grade - Company A 182nd Engineers Combat Battalion
Photo and description submitted by: Rachel Cummins
WWII Battles/Campaigns: Po Valley, Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno and North Apennines. He earned EAME theater ribbons with four bronze arrowheads.
Veteran's name: John Nipaver
Military branch: U.S. Naval Air Force
Years of service: 1941-1945
Photo and description submitted by: Janet Martha
John Nipaver, our father, never forgot the friendship and the beauty of his Naval Airforce crew in Puuene, Maui. During WWII, the Maui Airport became the Puuene Naval Air Station when taken over by the Navy to become a major training ground for naval air groups in the U.S. Pilots were trained for fighter, torpedo-bomber, and dive-bomber roles. It was also there that Aircraft combat practice runs and other assignments were conducted. One of his missions (as a taxi pilot) with a fellow pilot was to recover 5 members of a plane's crew (one body at a time) from a crash over uninhabited Kahoolawe, Hawaii, also the smallest of the 8 volcanic islands. The assignment was done under hazardous conditions on the island and on the last pick-up done in the inky darkness on rough terrain. Their mission was successful in bringing the bodies back to their loved ones. It was John Nipaver who throughout the years kept his tight-knit group together, organizing reunions for this unique unit. Their last one was a 50-year reunion with almost 40 attending. Salute to John Nipaver and all veterans for their service.
Veteran's name: Thomas E. Antor
Military branch: Army
Years of service: 1976-1979
Photo and description submitted by: Anita Putnam
Stationed in Germany and learned the welding trade. He was good at what he did so he had special requests to do specialized work for the higher ups! Enjoyed skiing in the mountains there [Germany]. Deceased in 2023.
Veteran's name: Frank Richard Antor
Military branch: Army
Years of service: 1968-1971
Submitted by: Anita Putnam
Veterans' names: Norbert Antor (left), Richard Edward Antor (middle), Bernard F. Antor (right)
Military branches: Norbert Antor (Army Infantry, WWII), Richard Edward Antor (Navy, WWII), Bernard F. Antor (Corporal in Army, WWII)
Photo and description submitted by: Anita Putnam
Norbert was the second brother to serve in WWI. He was wounded by shrapnel on May 31, 1944, while in Italy and received the Purple Heart. He died in 2023 at the age of 98.
Veteran's name: Bernard F. Antor
Military branch: Corporal in Army, WWII
Photo and description submitted by: Anita Putnam
Stationed in the Aleutian Islands as a radio transmitter and message decoder.
Two brothers Norbert* and Richard were serving at the same time. We have the 3 star banner that hung in their parents home while they served.
*Referenced in above summary.
Veteran's name: Frank W. Antor
Military branch: Army
Years of service: 1914-1918 (WWI)
Photo and description submitted by: Anita Putnam
This is my father's father. He served in four fronts: Alsace, Château-Thierry, Soissons, Champaign. Hiked 200 miles in Germany at the end of war to where they were routed home.
Veteran's name: Joseph Smierciak
Military branch: Army
Years of service: 1942-1944
Photo and description submitted by: Frank Busa
My uncle Joseph Smierciak from Mt. Pleasant, PA, enlisted in Pittsburgh in the Army in 1942. He sent two letters to my Mother and his sister Anne Busa via Victory Mail in May 1944. He was killed in September 1944 and received the Purple Heart.
Veteran's name: Thomas Cunningham
Military branch: Army, Green Beret
Description submitted by: Priscilla Forte
It was August. I was home for the summer when all of a sudden two soldiers appeared at our front door. They came to give my dad the news that my brother had been killed in action in Vietnam. My Dad said no he is not dead, and after the soldiers left contacted a state senator. As it turned out, due to many heroic efforts my brother was alive ... badly wounded (lost his leg) ... but alive. He received the Silver Star Medal for his bravery and actions.
Veteran's name: Russell Richert
Military branch: Army
Description submitted by: Richard Richert
My uncle landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day. Throughout his service he was wounded seven times.
Veteran's name: Aaron Sowick
Military branch: Army
Photo and description submitted by: Mark Sowick
It is my son who is my hero. He had all sorts of college scholarship type of opportunities but chose to serve something "bigger than himself," which are his words and not mine.
Veteran's name: Johann Krenzer
Military branch: Navy, submarine force
Years of service:
1954-1959 (active duty), 30 years of military reserve
Description submitted by: Marianne Krenzer
Johann joined the Navy submarine force in 1954, serving four years active duty and 30 years reserve. He has been actively involved with the veterans as a bugle player at the funerals, in addition to building and grounds upkeep at Post 1146 in St. Clair Shores. A few years ago he joined the USSVI Wolverine Base, a group of current and former submariners who meet monthly.
Veteran's name: Paul J. Neiswonger
Military branch: Army
Description submitted by: Kenneth Neiswonger
My older brother Paul served in the Army for 22 years. He fought in Korea and the Vietnam War. He served three years of duty in the Vietnam War as a gunner on the helicopters who were sent out to bring back the wounded. He was surely my hero.
Veteran's name: Mike Kasprzak
Military branch: Navy
Years of service: 1965-1967
Description submitted by: Mike Kasprzak
I enlisted in the Navy in 1965 and worked with my shipmate Stew for two years on the USS Ranger (CVA-61). Stew and I worked in the same office for two years and have become longtime friends. I visit Stew in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, a few times a year and we email each other daily. Both of us attend the Rancho High School veterans program (Rancho Remembers) and speak with students about military experiences. Stew and I are the only two veterans on the Ranger who had same jobs in the same office and have remained friends since 1965.
Veteran's name: James D. Giesen
Military branch: Marine Corps
Photo and description submitted by: Marianne Giesen
Our son, James D. Giesen, loved serving our country as a U.S. Marine. We were so very proud of him and his service. Unfortunately he passed away in 2019, but since then we have had so much support from other Marines who served with him. We are so grateful for them and their service as well.
Veteran's name: Paul Corkran
Military branch: Navy, WWII
Photo and description submitted by: Leah Teahl
My grandfather was a proud U.S. Navy midshipman during WWII aboard the USS McLanahan. He enjoyed telling stories about being drafted, the fun times and meeting other members of the branch. He proudly displayed his love for the Navy for his entire life. Thank you, Pap, for your service and may you continue to rest in peace.
Veteran's name: John Ramsey
Military branch: National Guard
Years of service: 1969-1975
Description submitted by: John Ramsey
Veteran's Name: Richard Rinebold
Military Branch: Army
Submitted by: Richard Rinebold
I was stationed in Inchon City, Korea, from November 1963 until December 1964, which was when President Kennedy was shot. I marched in a very solemn ceremony in Seoul, Korea, for our fallen president. It was a very sad day for all who participated. A day I will never forget (I am 81 years old).
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Traveling can be one of life’s greatest joys. However, packing smart can make or break your experience. With so many gadgets and accessories out there, figuring out what’s truly useful can be overwhelming. To help you streamline your packing list, here’s a guide to the most useful travel items that will enhance your adventures. 1. The All-Purpose Carry-On Bag A durable, well-organized carry-on bag is essential. Look for one with: Compartments: separate sections for clothes, electronics and toiletries Durability: waterproof or water-resistant materials for unexpected weather Mobility: wheels and an adjustable handle for easy transport This is a must-have item because it saves you from waiting at baggage claims and prevents lost luggage during flights. 2. Travel-Friendly Toiletry Kit Opt for a compact, TSA-approved toiletry kit with refillable travel-size bottles. Bonus points if it comes with a hook for easy hanging in small hotel bathrooms. Tip: keep a separate mini toiletry bag in your carry-on with essentials like toothpaste, face wipes, and lip balm to freshen up during long journeys. 3. Portable Charger and Universal Adapter Staying connected is crucial for navigation, translating apps and emergency calls. A reliable power bank ensures your devices stay charged, especially during long flights or train rides. Pair it with a universal adapter to charge your gadgets no matter the country you’re visiting. 4. Packing Cubes Packing cubes help you stay organized by categorizing your clothes and accessories. They also maximize space in your luggage. 5. Travel Insurance and Document Organizer Keep all your travel documents—passport, visas, insurance and itinerary—in a waterproof organizer. This can be as simple as a resealable sandwich bag. 6. Reusable Water Bottle Remember to stay hydrated! Plus, a water bottle with a built-in filter ensures you have safe drinking water even in remote areas. 7. Noise-Canceling Headphones Whether you’re on a noisy plane or staying in a bustling city, noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver. Invest in lightweight, wireless options for added comfort. 8. Eye Mask For long-haul flights or train rides, a comfortable eye mask can help you get some rest. 9. Compact First Aid Kit Accidents and illnesses can happen anytime. A small first aid kit stocked with band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes and any personal medications is a must. Tip: add items like motion sickness tablets and electrolyte packs for extra preparedness. 10. Multi-Function Travel Jacket Look for jackets with built-in storage—many designs come with hidden pockets for passports, phones, and even water bottles! These jackets are perfect for streamlining your essentials. Tip: if you’re going somewhere with a cold climate, consider bringing a large scarf that can also double as a blanket or wrap. 11. Daypack or Sling Bag A small, secure bag for day trips is essential. Choose one with anti-theft features like lockable zippers or RFID-blocking technology to protect your valuables. 12. Versatile Footwear Depending on your itinerary, pack a pair of lightweight walking shoes, sandals and waterproof boots. Opt for neutral colors and comfortable designs to match various outfits. Packing the right items makes your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Start with these essentials, and tailor them to your destination and travel style. Remember, the key to efficient packing is quality over quantity. Remember to focus on versatile, durable and practical items that suit your needs!