87th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized)
7th Armored Division
Bookmark this page as http://www.7thArmdDiv.org/87rcn.htm
Last updated: August 22, 2022 - What's New?
UNITS OF THE 87th CAVALRY RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON (MECHANIZED):
The 87th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron was created on 20 September 1943 from the 87th Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, augmented with a new Troop D (the Reconnaissance Company of the former 31st Armored Regiment) and Troop E (the Reconnaissance Company of the former 40th Armored Regiment, which became an assualt gun troop of four platoons, one to support each of the four recon troops). [Thanks to Gen. William Knowlton for this and much more information contained on this page.]
Note that the text for all of the 87th Recon After Action Reports can be viewed by clicking here.
- Squadron Headquarters (Bn HQ/87) -- see section below for Squadron-level officers and staff
- Headquarters and Service Troop (HQ Tp/87)
- HQ & Service Troop Commanding Officer
- Capt. Everett Roberts (??? - VE Day - ???)
- with HQ & Service Troop 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment]
- In charge of bringing supplies to the front
- 1st Lt. Ralph L. Pellerito (??? - 11 Augusut 1944 - VE Day - ???)
- with HQ & Service Troop 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Awarded Silver Star "for distinguishing himself by meritorious service in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany, from 11 August 1944 to 7 May 1945. Entered the military service from New Jersey." [source: 7AD GO #90, 4 June 1945, para. 1)
- The following reported to Lt. Pellerito [source: Communications Chief, Michael Furlich]
- Sgt Frank Bucco (??? - ???)
- T/5 Joseph P Mudro (??? - ???)
- Troop Sergeant
- 1st Sgt. Constantino Cueto (??? - 10-11 December 1944 - ???)
- 10-11 December 1944: Slightly sick to Division Clearing Station [source: HQ & Sv Tr/87 Morning Report 10-11 Dec 44]
- 20 December 1944: awarded Silver Star for his actions on this date in Belgium (entered service from Illinois) [source: 7AD GO #8, 8 Jan 1945, para. 1)]
- Armored Car Driver for Troop CO
- Percy R. Baker (??? - ???)
- Clerk
- Sol A. Taffet (??? - ???)
- Supply Sergeant
- S/Sgt Howard K Everett (??? - ???)
- Cooks
- George W. Brooks (??? - ???)
- Frank D. Porecca (shortly after 12 March 1942 - duration)
- Other HQ & Sv Tr/87 Officers and NCO's
- Position Unknown
- 1st Lt. Donald G. Gray (??? - VE Day - ???)
with HQ & Service Troop 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- 2d Lt. Henry E. Temple (States? - 25 August 1944)
Transferred to B/87 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- "A" Troop (A/87)
- A/87 Commanding Officer
- Capt. John W. Wells, Jr. (??? - 23 August 1944 - 26 December 1944 - ???)
- [23 August 1944] "Meantime, Troop "A" which was screening to the North, reported heavy enemy troop concentrations observed from an OP overlooking Corbei and Captain Wells acted as forward observer to bring artillery fire to bear on enemy vehicles along the main road into the town." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- [7 September 1944] "Captain WELLS then assembled his command just West of PAGNY, refueled, and upon order moved at 0400 (7 September) to join the main body just East of DONCOURT." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- [1 October 1944 at Overloon, Holland] "After a personal reconnaissance of the terrain, the troop commander, Captain JOHN W. WELLS, JR., moved the troops up to the canal and reported in position at 1900." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- [28 October 1944] "The tanks were withdrawn, and Captain WELLS moved the assault guns in to replace them and provide support." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- On 26 December 1944, he commanded both A/87 and the attached survivors of B/87. [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Apparently transferred to Squadron Headquarters, since he is shown with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Capt. Rolland R. Smith (??? - 26 January 1945 - ???)
"At about 0300 on the 26th [January 1945], the Squadron Commander returned from Division Headquarters with a special mission. Troop A returned to Squadron control in the vicinity of Monteneau, and the Troop Commander, Captain ROLLAND R. SMITH with the troop executive officer, Lieutenant LEE A. MESTAS were ordered to report to the Squadron CP immediately." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- A/87 Executive Officer
- 2nd Lt. (later 1st Lt.) Lee A. Mestas (??? - 3 November 1944 - 26 January 1945 - ???)
Promoted to 1st Lt. 3 November 1944 [source: A/87 Morning Reports]
Interviewed after defense of St. Vith [source: Combat Interviews]
"At about 0300 on the 26th [January 1945], the Squadron Commander returned from Division Headquarters with a special mission. Troop A returned to Squadron control in the vicinity of Monteneau, and the Troop Commander, Captain ROLLAND R. SMITH with the troop executive officer, Lieutenant LEE A. MESTAS were ordered to report to the Squadron CP immediately." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Other A/87 Officers and NCOs
- Second Platoon Leader (2/A/87)
- 1st Lt. Vincent L. Heintzelman (8 December 1944 - 27 January 1945 - ???)
- 8 December 1944: Assigned and joined from Hq 18th Repl Depot, APO 872 per par 2 SO #246 Hq 7AD [source: A/87 Morning Report 8 Dec 44]
- Interviewed after defense of St. Vith [source: Combat Interviews]
- "Patrol A, led [27 January 1945] by Lieutenant VINCENT L. HEINTZELMAN, set out at 1400, following the road to the northwest from town for a distance of approximately 600 yards, then turning northeast across the open snow toward the woods." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Third Platoon Leader (3/A/87)
- 1st Lt. Kenneth M. McMurtry (States? - 15 August 1944)
Killed in Action 15 August 1944 near Chartres, France
[source: A/87 Morning Reports, Sgt. Albert Oser, Gen. William Knowlton]
- 2nd Lt. William H. McMillan (?15 August 1944? - 27 October 1944)
- Replaced McMurtry who had been killed [source: Sgt. Albert Oser]
- "In at least one case the enemy was led by a civilian, and in another case the enemy infiltrated through between the strong points and appeared behind them in British and American uniforms, attracting the attention of Lieutenant WILLIAM H. MCMILLAN and shooting him when he exposed himself." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Missing in Action 27 October 1944 near Horik, Holland, along with Lt. Monaghan and 14 enlisted men [source: A/87 Morning Reports]
- Killed in Action 27 October 1944 near Horik, Holland [source: A/87 Morning Reports, "Battle of Canals" p. 44 (1944 narrative by Army historian Lt. Robert Merriam), Sgt. Albert Oser]
- Lt. Geer (??? - 13 May 1945 - ???)
"In Herraningburg, the 3rd platoon under Lieutenant Geer found 1120 German civilians living in two trains comprised of box cars and coalers. Disease was prevalent and unsanitary conditions at a danger point. Lieutenant Geer took quick steps to remedy the existing problem by establishing a Burghemeister responsible for the needs of these civilians." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Position Unknown
- Lt. Edward C. Gits (??? - 27 January 1945 - ???)
"Patrol B, led [27 January 1945] by Lieutenant EDWARD C. GITS, left fifteen minutes later and followed the northeast road to the edge of town where the infantry had one heavy machine gun." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Lt. Robert F. McGonigle (??? - 27 January 1945 - ???)
Sources:
- 28 August - 3 September 1944: Silver Star awarded as Sergeant "for distinguishing himself by gallantry in action in France from 28 August to 3 September 1944" [source: 7AD GO #51 (17 Sep 1944)]
- 7 September 1944: "37 010 593 McGonigle SSN-651 S sgt / Above EM dy to trfd 32d Evac Hosp / LD Non-battle slightly wounded" [source: A/87 Morning Report 7 September 1944]
- ... returned to duty; received battlefield commission - but no sources yet found for those events
- 27 January 1945: "About this time [27 January 1945], Patrol C, commanded by Lieutenant Robert F. McGONIGAL [sic], arrived by the same route." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 1st Lt. George W. Monaghan (4 September 1944 - 27 October 1944)
- 4 September 1944: Transferred from E/87 [source: E/87 Morning Report 4 Sep 44]
- 24? October 1944: "In the Troop A zone, Lieutenant GEORGE D. MONAGHAN [error: his middle initial was W] led a twelve-man patrol, consisting of two sections with six men in each, down to the canal one-half mile from Nederweert. The advance section had small arms and radio, the rear section, mortar and machinegun. This patrol ran into an ambush, was cut in two, pinned by fire, and only one man from the second section escaped. The first section escaped by crawling 1000 yards on their bellies in a small ditch less than a foot deep." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Missing in Action 27 October 1944 near Horik, Holland, along with Lt. McMillan and 14 enlisted men [source: A/87 Morning Reports]
- 2nd Lt. J. Harold Poland (after 23 October 1944 - 2-3 December 1944 - ???)
- 12 September 1944 and 23 October 1944: appears in D/87 Morning Report, so that he was transferred after then [source: D/87 Morning Reports 12 Sep 44, 23 Oct 44]
- 2-3 December 1944: "Ord Lv" [some kind of Leave from the Troop] [source: A/87 Morning Report 3 Dec 44]
- 1st Lt. Charles W. "Buck" Rogers (??? - 9 December - 20 December 1944)
- 9-11 December 1944: To temporary duty at Hq ETOUSA, APO 887, per par 5 SO #247 Hq 7AD [source: A/87 Morning Reports 9, 11 Dec 44]
- 20 December 1944: Transfered to B/87 [source: A/87 and B/87 Morning Reports 20 Dec 44]
- "B" Troop (B/87)
- B/87 Commanding Officer
- Capt. James H. Conroy (States? - 23 August 1944)
- Relieved of command and placed on special duty with Division Headquarters; Missing in Action 7 September 1944 in France [source: Morning Reports]
- "At this time [24 August 1944], Lieutenant Robert J. Stewart assumed command of Troop "B", vice Captain James H. Conroy, relieved." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Made a liaison officer; Captured [source: Letter from Walter Anderson to Beverly Kent 29 July 2005: "After the war I returned to my job in the financial district of New York. One day I happened to meet Jim CONROY on the street. He was B Troop's commander. (Captain) He told me he had been made a liasison officer and had been captured by the Germans."]
- 1st Lt. (later Capt.) Robert J. "Jack" Stewart (24 August 1944 - 20 December 1944)
- "At this time [24 August 1944], Lieutenant Robert J. Stewart assumed command of Troop "B", vice Captain James H. Conroy, relieved." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Lightly wounded in action en route from St. Leu to Jouy-le-Chatel, France on 26 August 1944 (shrapnel wounds both thumbs) but remained on duty; Promoted to Captain 16 November 1944; Lightly wounded in action at St. Vith, Belgium; evacuated to 107th Field Hospital, but killed en route when ambulance was ambushed by German tank (death not discovered until 25 January 1945) [source: B/87 Morning Reports, Gen. William Knowlton (who describes Stewart as "a beloved commander, former lacrosse letterman at Princeton, and a great guy")]
- 1st Lt. Charles W. "Buck" Rogers (20-22 December 1944)
Transfered from A/87 to assume command; captured at St. Vith, Belgium [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Following the capture of all 3 remaining officers (Lt. Rogers, 1st Lt. George D. Williamson, 2d Lt. Robert L. Rummer), B/87 had no commanding officer, nor officers of any kind, from 23-30 December 1944, inclusive. On 24 December, the remnants (48 men) of B/87 were attached to A/87 until 31 December. [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Capt. Charles Martin (??? - 26 December 1944 - ???) [CO of Provisional B/87]
32nd Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (of 14th Cavalry Group) "C" Troop provisionally became B/87 on 26 December 1944, since all officers and most men of B/87 had been lost in combat at St. Vith; Capt. Martin was CO of C/32 and thus of the provisional B/87, although he was not officially on B/87's roster; during this period of reorganization the survivors of B/87 were attached to A/87 under Capt. Wells and not to the provisional B/87 [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 1st Lt. William A. Knowlton (31 December 1944 - 17 February 1945)
Temporary duty at Army Information Education Staff School (Cite Universitaire; 18 Boulevard Jourdan; Paris, France) [source: B/87 Morning Report]
- 1st Lt. Leo Sher (17-26 February 1945)
Temporary commander, while Lt. Knowlton at Army Staff School [source: B/87 Morning Report]
- 1st Lt. William A. Knowlton (26 February 1945 - 1 March 1945)
Resumed command after return from Army Staff School; Relieved of command when Capt. Jordan assigned to B/87; ?became Executive Officer? [source: B/87 Morning Report]
- Capt. Mack J. Jordan (1 March 1945 - 11 April 1945)
- Assigned to B/87 as CO [source: B/87 Morning Report]
- Wounded 11 April 1945 at or near Ober Salwey, Germany [source: 11 Apr 45 B/87 Morning Report]
- 1st Lt. Leo Sher (11 April 1945)
Briefly assumed command of B/87 April 1945 when Capt. Jordan wounded [source: Gen. William Knowlton - Capt. Jordan wounded 11 Apr 45 per 11 Apr 45 B/87 Morning Report]
- 1st Lt. William A. Knowlton (11 April 1945 - early August 1945)
- 11 Apr 1945: assumed command when Capt. Jordan was wounded [source: 11 Apr 45 B/87 Morning Report]
- CO until early August 1945 when he went to Berlin [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- B/87 Executive Officer
- 1st Lt. George D. Williamson (States? - 7 November 1944; 19 December 1944 - 22 December 1944)
- On or before 25 August 1944: Executive Officer [source: Letter from Walter Anderson to Beverly Kent 29 July 2005 -- Note that since Lt. Anderson was wounded 25 Aug 44, his memory that Lt. Williamson was the Executive Officer was during the period that Lt. Anderson was with the Troop.]
- 7 November 1944: Slightly sick to 41st Evacuation Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 13 December 1944: Returned to duty in Squadron Headquarters [source: Sq Hq/87 Morning Report 13 Dec 44] - See Squadron S-1 officer list below
- 19 December 1944: Transferred to B/87 from Squadron Headquarters [source: Sq Hq/87 and B/87 Morning Reports 19 Dec 44]
- 22 December 1944: captured at St. Vith, Belgium [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 1st Lt. Leo Sher (5 February 1945 - 26 April 1945)
- 14 September 1944 - 29 October 1944
- Replacement from 53rd Replacment Battalion [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Lightly wounded in action (shrapnel wound in upper left arm) near Overloon, Holland on 1 October 1944 but remained on duty; Slightly sick to Division clearing station 29 October 1944 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 5 November 1944 - 21 December 1944
- Returned to duty 5 November 1944 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Slightly sick to Division clearing station 21 December 1944; transferred 23 Dec to 28th General Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 5 February 1945 - 26 April 1945
- Returned to duty 5 February 1945 via 3rd Replacement Depot [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Made B/87 Executive Officer [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- Temporarily assumed command of B/87 17-26 February 1945 when Lt. Knowlton at Army Staff School [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
Briefly assumed command of B/87 April 1945 when Capt. Jordan wounded [source: Gen. William Knowlton - Capt. Jordan wounded 11 Apr 45 per 11 Apr 45 B/87 Morning Report]
- Assigned to Troop "A" 26 April 1945 [source: 26 Apr 45 B/87 Morning Report]
- B/87 Troop Sergeant
- 1st Sgt. Leonard Hoyle Ladd (??? - 20 December 1944 - 31 December 1944 - ???)
had Capt. Stewart evacuated at St. Vith [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- Other B/87 Officers and NCOs
- First Platoon (1/B/87)
- First Platoon Leader (Commanding Officer)
- ???
- 2d Lt. (later 1st Lt.) Henry E. Temple (22 February 1945 - 10 Apr 45, 26 Apr 1945 --)
- 25 August 1944 - 12 September 1944
- Transferred to B/87 from HQ & Service Troop [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Seriously wounded in action 12 September 1944 near Gravelotte/Doncourt, France and sent to 34th Evacuation Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 9 November 1944 - 18 December 1944
- Returned to duty 9 November 1944 via 18th Replacement Depot [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Seriously wounded in action at St. Vith, transfer18 December 1944 at St. Vith, Belgium and sent to 107th Evacuation Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 22 February 1945 - 1 April 1945
- Returned to duty 22 February 1945 via 19th Replacement Depot [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- February 1945: Given command of 1st Platoon [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- 1 April 1945: Promoted to 1st Lt. [source: 9 Apr 45 B/87 Morning Report]
- 10 April 1945: Assigned to temporary duty with Headquarters First US Army for approximately 30 days [source: 10 Apr 45 B/87 Morning Report]
- 26 April 1945 --
- 26 April 1945: Returned to duty from temporary duty with Headquarters First US Army [source: 26 Apr 45 B/87 Morning Report]
- First Platoon Sergeant
- ???
- Sgt. (later S/Sgt) Peter L. Lisewski (12 January 1945 - ???)
- Transferred from A/87 12 January 1945 as Sgt. [source: B/87 12 Jan 45 Morning Report]
- Made Platoon Sergeant of 1st Platoon [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- Promoted to S/Sgt. 1 February 1945 [source: B/87 6 February 1945 Morning Report]
- Second Platoon (2/B/87)
- Second Platoon Leader
- 1st Lt. Robert J. Hand (1942 - 25 August 1944)
- Original cadre to form 7AD in 1942 [source: Robert J. Hand, via Beverly Kent]
- Lightly wounded in action north of Melun, France while B/87 encountered heavy machine gun and artillery fire; sent to 34th Evacuation Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Hospitalized in England and Modesto, CA [source: Robert J. Hand, via Beverly Kent]
- April 1945: assigned to Cavalry Replacement Training Center at Fort Riley, KS [source: Robert J. Hand, via Beverly Kent]
- August 1945: cadred to Fort Knox, KY to set up Reconnaissance Training Center at the Armor School [source: Robert J. Hand, via Beverly Kent]
- ???
- 2nd Lt. Elmer Earl (Earl) Harrell (18 January 1945 - ???)
- Replacement from 3rd Replacement Depot [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Given command of 2nd Platoon [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- Second Platoon Sergeant
- ???
- Sgt. (later S/Sgt) Edmund R. Ruschkewicz (14 January 1945 - ???)
- Reduced from Sgt. to Pvt. 1 December 1944 [source: B/87 7 December 1944 Morning Report]
- Made Platoon Sergeant of 2nd Platoon [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- Promoted to S/Sgt. 1 February 1945 [source: B/87 6 February 1945 Morning Report]
- Third Platoon (3/B/87)
- Third Platoon Leader
- ???
- 2nd Lt. Harry Jackson Clark (18 January 1945 - ???)
- Replacement from 3rd Replacement Depot [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Given command of 3rd Platoon [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- Third Platoon Sergeant
- ???
- Cpl. (later S/Sgt) Harold J. Gill (14 January 1945 - duration)
- Lightly wounded in action as Cpl. 15 August 1944 between La Loupe and Nogent-le-Roi, France and sent to hospital [source: B/87 15 Aug 44 Morning Report]
- Returned to duty as Cpl. via 92nd Replacement Battalion 4 January 1945 [source: B/87 4 Jan 45 Morning Report]
- Promoted to Sgt. 12 January 1945 [source: B/87 14 Jan 45 Morning Report]
- Made Platoon Sergeant of 3rd Platoon [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- Promoted to S/Sgt. 1 February 1945 [source: B/87 6 February 1945 Morning Report]
- won a Silver Star in meeting with the Russians [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- Position Unknown
- 2d Lt. Walter "Andy" Anderson (States? - 25 August 1944)
- Was a platoon leader [source: Walter Anderson, via Beverly Kent] -- must have been 1st or 3rd, since Robert Hand had 2nd at that time
- Seriously wounded in action north of Melun, France while B/87 encountered heavy machine gun and artillery fire; sent to 34th Evacuation Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Hospitalized 3 months in England and 6 months in Cleveland before being placed on limited duty at war's end [source: Walter Anderson, via Beverly Kent]
- 1st Lt. Butler F. Gallermore (18 January 1945 - 6 February 1945)
Replacement from 3rd Replacement Depot; Transferred to C/87 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 2d Lt. Paul Hill (States? - 23 August 1944) [source for first name: Letter from Walter Anderson to Beverly Kent 29 July 2005]
Lightly wounded in action near Melun, France; sent to 104th Evacuation Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 2nd Lt. Fred W. Lambdin (4-20 September 1944)
- 4 September 1944: Transferred from E/87 to B/87 [source: Morning Reports]
- 20 September 1944: Returned from B/87 to E/87 [source: Morning Reports]
- 2d Lt. Charles A. Robertson (12 September 1944 - 23 October 1944)
Replacement from 53rd Replacement Battalion; Transferred to C/87 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 2d Lt. Robert L. Rummer (States? - 23 October 1944 - 22 December 1944)
Battlefield Commission from S/Sgt in B/87; Captured at St. Vith, Belgium [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 2nd Lt. James K. Shelton (10 January 1945 - 22 February 1944)
former F/87 officer returned to B/87 via 92nd Replacement Battalion; was the only other officer besides Lt. Knowlton for a short period; Transferred to F/87 when Lt. Temple returned to duty
[source: B/87 Morning Reports, Gen. William Knowlton]
- 2nd Lt. (later 1st Lt.) William J. Sullivan (11 September 1944 - 18 December 1944 and from 5 February 1945 - ???)
- 11 September 1944 - 18 December 1944
- 11 September 1944: Transferred from C/87 to B/87 [source: B/87 and C/87 Morning Reports]
- Promoted to 1st Lt. 1 October 1944 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 1 day leave 2-3 December 1944 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- Lightly wounded in action 18 December 1944 at St. Vith, Beglium and transferred 102nd Evacuation Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 5 February 1945 --
- Returned to duty 5 February 1945 via 3rd Replacement Depot [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- "C" Troop (C/87)
- Commanding Officer
- ???
- 1st Lt. Richard Montgomery (??? - 27 October 1944)
- "At this time [27 October 1944], a high explosive shell burst near the Squadron Commander, and the commanders of Troop C and Company F. Captain JOSEPH L. RAMSEY was wounded by flying steel fragments, and replaced. Lieutenant RICHARD MONTGOMERY suffered from the concussion and also had to be relieved. Lieutenant FRED A. LEWELLEN was placed in command of Troop C ..." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- relieved of command 27 October 1944 and transferred to Squadron Headquarters 30 October 1944 [source: C/87 Morning Report -- Note date of 27 instead of MR 28 is based on F/87 MRs that show F/87 Capt. Ramsey wounded on 27 Oct]
- 1st Lt. Fred A. Lewellen (27-30 October 1944)
- "At this time [27 October 1944], a high explosive shell burst near the Squadron Commander, and the commanders of Troop C and Company F. Captain JOSEPH L. RAMSEY was wounded by flying steel fragments, and replaced. Lieutenant RICHARD MONTGOMERY suffered from the concussion and also had to be relieved. Lieutenant FRED A. LEWELLEN was placed in command of Troop C ..." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Resumed regular role when newly-assigned Capt. Johnson became CO [source: C/87 Morning Report]
- Capt. Donald L. Johnson (30 October 1944 - December 1944 - January 1945 - duration)
- Transferred 30 October 1944 from Squadron Headquarters to assume command [source: C/87 Morning Report]
- Interviewed after defense of St. Vith [source: Combat Interviews]
- "Captain Johnson of Troop C, taking three platoons, moved [about 5 May 1945] from Brahlstorf to Bahne to take charge of the camp." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Other Officers
- Second Platoon Leader
- 2d Lt. Charles A. Robertson (23 October 1944 - 29 October 1944)
- 23 October 1944: Transferred from B/87 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 29 October 1944:
- Missing in Action 29 October 1944 near C/48 between Asten and Meijel, Holland [source: C/87 Morning Report 1 November 1944]
- 29 October 1944: "The morning of the 28th brought heavy enemy artillery fire in the sector West of Meijel. Troop C held its positions under this fire until 1000, when about 65 enemy came up in front of the 1st platoon. These were blasted back by artillery fire and assault guns. At 1600 the enemy made a determined attack along this whole front. The line held, except the 2nd platoon, which, being pushed forward was flanked on both sides. Moreover, heavy mortar fire caved in foxholes and filled carbines with dirt so that they failed to function. The platoon leader Lieutenant CHARLES A. ROBERTSON, JR, ordered his men to withdraw to a ditch between the 1st and 3rd platoons, while he personally covered their withdrawal with a machine gun. He was wounded at least once but continued firing; he was left behind, and never got back. The platoon (2nd) continued back past the ditch, and the 3rd extended South to close gap. Enemy tanks and infantry over-ran this line, but the troops held their positions and remained through the night although some enemy had got through behind them." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Third Platoon Leader
- 2nd Lt. John H. Mulliken, Jr. (11 September 1944 - 23-24 Janurary 1945 - 5 May 1945 - duration)
- 11 September 1944: Joined from 53rd Replacement Battalion [source: C/87 14 September 1944 Morning Report]
- 24 January 1945: "Considerable enemy artillery fell in the assembly area, but there were few casualties. Then, that same night, Troops A and C were given missions to reconnoiter out from St. Vith to the east and south respectively. The town had been reduced to a heap of rubble by bombs and shells, and amounted to a huge roadblock rather than a communications center. The patrols proceeded through town dismounted, and a patrol from Troop C, led by Lieutenant JOHN H. MULLIKEN, JR., penetrated southeast to about 860867 from which point they heard German conversation and motor sounds to the East. These patrols were recalled at midnight." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- "The Troop C column [24 January 1945] worked its way along the road directly South out of St. Vith to the railroad, then since one of the bridges was blown, detoured West to a place where the railroad cut presented a less difficult obstacle to cross. The point, consisting of Lt. MILLIKEN, one radio man, one BAR man, and one rifleman, had pushed beyond the high ground at 853869 and was in plain sight of the objective when the enemy opened flanking fire with machine guns and rifles from houses and fox-holes along the road to the West. The 3rd and 1st Platoons opened fire with machine guns and rifles, killed three, wounded three, and captured eleven. The remainder escaped south along the road." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- "Meanwhile [about 5 May 1945] the 3rd platoon of Troop C under Lieutenant Mulliken moved to Gadebusch, assuming control of the ?? located there." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Position Unknown
- 2nd Lt. (later 1st Lt.) Carl F. Cooke (??? - 14 September 1944 - 27 October 1944)
- 14 September 1944: Lightly wounded in action (as 2nd Lt.) and sent to 35th Evacuation Hospital [source: C/87 14 Sep 44 Morning Report]
- 27 October 1944: Killed in action 27 October 1944 (as 1st Lt.), leading bazooka teams in attack on Meijel from Asten, Holland, killed by anti-tank gun fire [source: C/87 Morning Reports 27 and 30 October 1944, Gen. William Knowlton, 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 1st Lt. Butler F. Gallermore (6 February 1945 - ???)
- 6 February 1945: Transferred from B/87 to C/87 [source: B/87 Morning Reports]
- 1st Lt. Fred A. Lewellen (??? - 27-30 October 1944 - 28 December 1944; ??? - 25 January 1945 - ???)
- 27-30 October 1944: Took over as C/87 CO for Lt. Montgomery, until new Capt. assigned as CO [source: C/87 Morning Report, 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 28 December 1944: Slightly injured, non-battle, along with Cpl. Stanislaus J. Walag, at Mormont, Belgium; both sent to 102nd Evacuation Hospital
- Must have returned from injury by 25 January 1945 (see next entry)
- "Also noteworthy was the manner in which pack trains were organized [25 January 1945] by Lieutenant FRED A. LEWELLAN and Sgt. John R. Lubin, using practically all the men not actually in the line, including vehicle guards, maintenance men, cooks and supply personnel, to carry supplies up to the men in the line." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 1st Lt. Richard Montgomery (??? 18 September 1944 - 30 October 1944)
- 18 September 1944: Sent as officer for liaison with 90th Infantry Division and across XX Corps boundary south of Metz, France
- Became C/87 CO at some point prior to 27 October 1944
- 27 October 1944: suffered concussion from high explosive shell burst near the squadron commander and CO of F/87
- 30 October 1944: transferred from C/87 to Squadron HQ [source: C/87 Morning Report, 87 Rcn After Action Report -- Note date of 27 instead of MR 28 is based on F/87 MRs that show F/87 Capt. Ramsey wounded on 27 Oct -- Also note: C/87 Morning Report is also lacking in that it does not show Lt. Montgomery being wounded nor injured.]
- 1st Lt. Richard S. Oaksford (3 November 1944 - 22 December 1944)
- 3 November 1944: Transferred from E/87 to C/87 [source: C/87 and E/87 Morning Reports]
- 22 December 1944: Killed in action at Hunningen,Belgium or enroute to or at 3 mi SW St. Vith, Belgium [source: C/87 Morning Report]
- 2nd Lt. Arthur A. Storm (16 September 1944 - 5 October 1944)
- 16 September 1944: Joined from 53rd Replacement Battalion [source: C/87 16 September 1944 Morning Report]
- 5 October 1944: "Tr remained in bivouac [6/10 mile SW St. Antonis, Holland] 2nd Lt Storm LWA by artillery fire at 0600." [source: C/87 5 October 1944 Morning Report]
- 2nd Lt. William J. Sullivan (??? - 11 September 1944)
- 11 September 1944: Transferred from C/87 to B/87 [source: C/87 11 September 1944 Morning Report]
- Enlisted Men
- Communications Sergeant
- Sgt John Pope (??? - ???)
rank & role [source: Michael Furlich]
- "D" Troop (D/87)
- D/87 Commanding Officer
- Capt. William Rau (??? - 20 September 1943 - 7 December 1944)
- original CO of D/87 when 87 Cav Rcn Sq formed on 20 September 1943 [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- "[6 September 1944] Force "C", representing the main effort, was divided in three parts. First came the reconnaissance troop ("D") commanded by Captain WILLIAM A. RAU, then the Advance Guard, commanded by Major CHARLES A. CANNON, JR. (the Advance Guard consisted of two platoons from Company "A" 17th Tank Battalion plus the company headquarters, Company "C" 38th Armored Infantry Battalion, and Battery "C" 274th Armored Field Artillery Battalion)." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 23 October 1944: MOS 1620, as mechanized cavalry unit commander [source: D/87 Morning Report 23 Oct 44]
- 7 December 1944: Temporary duty at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri [source: D/87 Morning Report 7 Dec 44]
- 1st Lt. Arthur A. Olson (7 December 1944 - ???)
- 7 December 1944: Assumes command [source: D/87 Morning Report 7 Dec 44]
- 18 December 1944: "A change of orders [18 December 1944] placed Troop D directly under Division control, and Lieutenant OLSON went to Division Headquarters, to be followed by the troop in the morning." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 8 January 1945: Interviewed after defense of St. Vith [source: Combat Interviews]
- Capt. Franklin P. Lindsey, Jr. (??? - 26 December 1944 - ???)
- 32nd Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (of 14th Cavalry Group) "B" Troop provisionally became D/87 on 26 December 1944, since D/87 had been lost in combat at Parker's Crossroads; Capt. Lindsey was CO of B/32 and thus of the provisional D/87, although he was not officially on D/87's roster; during this period of reorganization the survivors of D/87 were attached to C/87 under Capt. Johnson and not to the provisional D/87 [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Interviewed January 1945 after December 1944 battle at Manhay and Grandmenil, Belgium [source: Combat Interviews]
- ???
- Other D/87 Officers and NCO's
- Second Platoon (2/D/87)
- Second Platoon Leader (Commanding Officer)
- 2nd Lt. Harold C. Bianche (??? - 22-23 October 1944 - 13 April 1945 - ???)
- 22 October 1944: Discharged (S/Sgt 36 118 074 MOS-561) to accept appointment as 2nd Lt. [source: D/87 Morning Report 22 Oct 44]
- 1944 October 23: Appointed 2nd Lieutenant - Received battlefield commission/ [source: Michael Furlich; D/87 Morning Report 23 Oct 44]
- 1945 April 13: "On 13 April [1945] Squadron moved initially to Allendorf, where the 2nd platoon of Troop D, commanded by 2d Lieutenant HAROLD C. BIANCHE, brought in General Friedrich Kochling, Corps commander, and his staff, whom they had captured." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Position Unknown
- 2nd Lt. Brady (??? - 22 September 1944)
- 22 September 1944: Transferred to 109th Evacuation Hospital, seriously sick [source: D/87 Morning Report 23 Sep 44]
- 2nd Lt. (later 1st Lt.) Morton M. DeVoren (??? - 4 October 1944 - 1 November 1944 - ???)
- 4 October 1944: awarded Bronze Star Medal [source: D/87 Morning Report 4 Oct 44]
- 23 October 1944: MOS 1620, as mechanized cavalry unit commander [source: D/87 Morning Report 23 Oct 44]
- 1 November 1944: promoted to 1st Lt. [source: D/87 Morning Report 6 Nov 44]
- 23 December 1944: Missing in Action at Baraque de Fraiture, Belgium crossroads [source: D/87 Morning Report 26 Dec 44]
- 24 December 1944: Escaped from Germans after being held at the crossroads all day on 23 Dec; returned to American lines [source: Morton DeVoren, telephone conversation 1 March 2006]
- 1st Lt. Joseph W. Jones (??? - 21 August 1944- 21 December 1944)
- 21 August 1944: lightly wounded in action by machine gun fire near St. Cyr, France; transferred to 34th Evacuation Hospital [source: Morning Reports]
- 21 December 1944: Missing in Action [source: D/87 Morning Report 24 Dec 44]
- 2nd Lt. J. Harold Poland (11 September 1944 - 23 October 1944 - before 2 December 1944)
- 11 September 1944: Assigned and joined from 53rd Replacement Battalion (APO 739); MOS 1204 [source: D/87 Morning Report 12 Sep 44]
- 23 October 1944: MOS 1620, as mechanized cavalry unit commander [source: D/87 Morning Report 23 Oct 44]
- 2-3 December 1944: appears in A/87 Morning Report, so that he had been transferred by then [source: A/87 Morning Report 3 Dec 44]
"E" Troop (E/87): Assault Guns (4 platoons, one to support each of the 4 recon troops)
- E/87 Commanding Officer
- Capt. Harlan Stine (??? - 20 September 1943 - 27 October 1944)
- original CO of E/87 when formed on 20 September 1943 from Recon Company of 40th Armored Regiment [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- "[26 August 1944] Approximately 97 prisoners were left with Captain Stine ..." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Assumed command of "F" Company 27 October 1944 [source: E/87 and F/87 27 October 1944 Morning Reports; Gen. William Knowlton]
- 1st Lt. Glenn Willoughby (27 October 1944 - duration)
- 27 October 1944: Assumed command when Capt. Stine moved to F/87 [source: E/87 30 October 1944 Morning Report; Gen. William Knowlton]
- 22 December 1944: lightly wounded in action (shrapnel cut on face) but remained on duty (still as 1st Lt.) [source: E/87 Morning Report 22 Dec 44]
- probably promoted to Captain at some point
- 12 April 1945: "The assault gun platoons from Troops C and D were to operate as a battery and fire supporting fire under the command of the Assault Gun Troop Commander, Captain GLEN WILLOUGHBY, using the Assault Gun platoon leaders with the reconnaissance troops as forward observers." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- E/87 Executive Officer
- 1st Lt. Glenn Willoughby (??? - 20 September 1943 - 27 October 1944)
- 20 September 1943: On roster in General Order at reogranization of 7th Armored Division
- 6 September 1944: Lightly wounded in action (shrapnel in posterior left thigh) in move from Verdun to the Moselle River but remained on duty
- 4 October 1944: Received Bronze Star Medal, while one of a group of E/87 men attached to D/87 [source: D/87 4 October 1944 Morning Report]
- 28 October 1944: Assumed command of E/87 when Capt. Stine moved to F/87 [source: E/87 30 October 1944 Morning Report; Gen. William Knowlton]
- ???
- Other E/87 Officers and NCO's
- 2nd Platoon Leader (2/E/87)
- 1st Lt. William A. Knowlton (??? - 20 September 1943 - Oct-Nov 44; ??? - 13 December 1944)
- 20 September 1943: On roster in General Order at reogranization of 7th Armored Division
- 4 September 1944: on special duty with Squadron Headquarters
- Oct-Nov 1944: Became Squadron S-1 in Holland [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- 11 December 1944: Transferred to 298th General Hospital, slightly injured in line of duty, non-battle [source: E/87 Morning Report 13 Dec 44]
- Position Unknown
- 2nd Lt. Joseph C/ (or O.) Glorioso (1 December 1944 - 23 December 1944 - ???)
- 1 December 1944: Assigned and joined from Hq 18th Repl Depot, APO 872 per par 7 SO #240 Hq 7AD [source: A/87 Morning Report 1 Dec 44]
- 22? December 1944: "At the same time, a reconnaissance section under Lieutenant GLORIOSO was sent back East toward Commanster to regain contact. The road led through heavily wooded, hilly country, and all movement was canalized. The section drew fire, returned it, and was forced back, withdrawing through the defensive position." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 2nd Lt. (later 1st Lt.) Fred W. Lambdin (States? - 4 September 1944; 20 September 1944 - 22 December 1944)
- 4 September 1944: Transferred from E/87 to B/87 as 2nd Lt. [source: Morning Reports]
- 20 September 1944: Returned from B/87 to E/87 as 2nd Lt. [source: Morning Reports]
- 3 November 1944: Promoted to 1st Lt. [source: E/87 6 Nov 44 Morning Report]
- 22 December 1944: Missing in Action at Crombach?, Belgium [source: E/87 Morning Report 25 Dec 44]
- Lt. George Monaghan (??? - 20 September 1943 - 4 September 1944)
- 20 September 1943: on roster in General Order of reorganization of 7th Armored Division
- 4 September 1944: Transferred to Troop "A" [source: E/87 Morning Report 4 Sep 44]
- 1st Lt. Richard S. Oaksford (25 September 1944 - 3 November 1944)
- 25 September 1944: Assigned and joined from HQ 53rd Replacement Battalion [source: E/87 Morning Report 27 Sep 44]
- T3 November 1944: ransferred to C/87 [source: C/87 and E/87 Morning Reports]
Company "F" (F/87): Light Tanks
- F/87 Commanding Officer
- Capt. Joseph L. Ramsey (??? - 27 October 1944)
- "At this time [27 October 1944], a high explosive shell burst near the Squadron Commander, and the commanders of Troop C and Company F. Captain JOSEPH L. RAMSEY was wounded by flying steel fragments, and replaced. Lieutenant RICHARD MONTGOMERY suffered from the concussion and also had to be relieved. Lieutenant FRED A. LEWELLEN was placed in command of Troop C ..." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- wounded 27 Oct 1944 by flying steel fragments from high explosive shell burst near the squadron commander and CO of C/87, sent to 53d Field Hospital, lost his arm [source: F/87 Morning Report, Gen. William Knowlton]
- Capt. Harlan Stine (27 October 1944 - duration)
- Transfrerred from "E" Troop and assumed command of "F" Company 27 October 1944 [source: E/87 and F/87 27 October 1944 Morning Reports; Gen. William Knowlton]
- [20 December 1944] "To further extend and protect the left flank, Captain STINE was sent with his Tank company headquarters, one platoon from D/31, and one platoon from C/23." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- [21 December 1944] "While the 23rd and 38th Armored Infantry Battalions were reorganizing in the triangle Krombach - Hinterhausen - Rodt, the enemy seriously threatened the left flank West of Captain STINE's position." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- [21 December 1944] "At this time orders were received to form a line North and East of Krombach and Hinterhausen. Troops C and A were detached Squadron control and moved crosscountry to the high ground Southwest of St. Vith under command of Lieutenant Colonel ERLENBUSCH; the remainder of the troops from the left flank fought their way back to Hinterhausen, and set up a defensive position facing North and East, under command of Lieutenant Colonel BOYLAN. Here a task force was organized under command of Captain STINE, consisting of A/17, one company S14 Tank Destroyer (less 1 platoon), the remaining tanks of F/87, and one assault gun from E/87." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- [26 December 1944] Command included Company "F" of 18th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (of 14th Cavalry Group) as well as F/87 [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Interviewed after defense of St. Vith [source: Combat Interviews]
- Other F/87 Officers and NCO's
- 1st Platoon Leader (1/F/87)
- 1st Lt. Albert D. Bryant (??? - 27 October 1944)
- 27 October 1944
- Missing in Action 27 October 1944 near Meijel, Holland [source: F/87 Morning Reports]
- "With the arrival of the light tank company (F/87), Troop C organized for another attack along the same 200 yard front North of the Asten Meijel road. On this attack, the first platoon of the tank company swung wide to the left, protecting the left flank, while the second proceeded down the road, peeling off to the left in direct support, and the third followed down the road in local reserve. The flanking platoon took some prisoners, and one tank from the 2nd platoon was sent over to take them back. On the way across, it was hit by bazooka fire from the rear and knocked out. One after another, three tanks from the first platoon were knocked out in the same way, so that only the platoon leader, Lieutenant ALBERT D. BRYANT, and one other tank were left. These two pushed on into the woods vicinity Hof, and never came back." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- ???
- 2nd Platoon Leader (2/F/87)
- Lt. ??? Wamstad (??? - 20 December 1944 - ???)
"The afternoon of the 20th [December 1944], A/17 came South from Recht through Ober Emmels, and was placed in position on the left flank of C/31, with Lieutenant WAMSTAD's platoon (2F/87) still out in front, outposting Ober Emmels." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 3rd Platoon Leader (3/F/87)
- Lt. Charles R. Good (??? - 27 October 1944 - 18 December 1944 - ???)
- 27 October 1944: "The remaining tank platoon was short one tank, so one of the two remaining tanks from the second platoon was attached, and the five tanks, commanded by Lieutenant CHARLES G. GOOD, moved out supported by ten dismounted men each. The objective was a hedgerow North of the road and just outside the town. This objective was no more than reached, and the men had not yet had time to dig in when a heavy caliber anti-tank gun opened up, and two tanks were burning. Two of the tanks withdrew behind a house South of the road, and the third returned to the shelter of the woods ... The remaining light tanks from Company F resisted briefly, the company commander's gunner bouncing four rounds 37mm AP off the leading tank, but lieutenant GOOD's tank was promptly knocked out and further resistance was clearly useless. Nevertheless, Lieutenant Robert C. OSTDICK refused to leave with the rest, and was left behind." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 18 December 1944: "At 1000 the Troop C line was reinforced by a platoon of light tanks from Company F, commanded by Lieutenant GOOD, and at 1100 a company of mediums from the 31st arrived. These tanks drove back the enemy tanks, and when a company of Tank Destroyers arrived about noon, the mediums left to undertake a new mission East of St. Vith." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- S/Sgt. (later 2nd Lt.) Burnis D. Barnhill (States? - 22 December 1944)
- 21 August 1944: Seriously Wounded in Action at Dourdan, Rainville or Marchans, France, as Sgt (MOS 795, ASN 33 148 705) [source: F/87 Morning Report 21 Aug 44]
- 9 November 1944: Returned to duty via 19th Replacement Depot (S/Sgt. 33 148 705 MOS 795) [source: F/87 Morning Report 10 Nov 44]
- 2 December 1944: Discharged to accept appointment as 2nd Lt. (S/Sgt 33 148 705) [source: F/87 Morning Report 2 Dec 44]
- 3 December 1944: Appointed 2nd Lt. per Verbal Order of Commanding General, Ninth US Army, APO 359 [source: F/87 Morning Report 3 Dec 44]
- 21 December 1944: "During the morning of the 21st [December 1944], a large enemy patrol estimated at 300 men penetrated in the CCA sector, cutting the road between Headquarters CCA and Headquarters 48th Armored Infantry Battalion. Later, dismounted enemy, presumably the same, threatened the 275th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, in Hinterhausen. Lieutenant BARNHILL was sent out with his light tank platoon (3F/87) at dusk, to drive off this enemy force and destroy them if possible. This mission he accomplished, but some enemy escaped and contributed a feeling of insecurity in all the area around Hinterhausen." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 22 December 1944
- MIA in vicinity of Rodt, Belgium [source: F/87 Morning Report 25 Dec 44]
- Died vicinity of Rodt, Belgium - Clay Shaw saw Lt. Barnhill go down a road and never saw him again [source: Clay Shaw (B/87)]
- Position Unknown
- 2nd Lt. (later 1st Lt.) Robert C. Ostdick (??? - 27 October 1944)
- 27 October 1944
- Missing in Action at Meijel, Holland [source: F/87 Morning Report 30 Oct 44]
- Report of Events: "Encountered enemy at Meijel, Holland, at 1600, believed to be 9th Panzer Division. Lost 12 tanks, 4 of which are missing in action. 1 Officer and 13 E. M. LWA. Morale very good, weather cold and rain. 1 Officer and 25 E. M. still unaccounted for." [source: F/87 Morning Report 30 Oct 44]
- Killed in Action 27 October 1944 [source: F/87 Morning Report 28 Nov 44]
- "The remaining tank platoon was short one tank, so one of the two remaining tanks from the second platoon was attached, and the five tanks, commanded by Lieutenant CHARLES G. GOOD, moved out supported by ten dismounted men each. The objective was a hedgerow North of the road and just outside the town. This objective was no more than reached, and the men had not yet had time to dig in when a heavy caliber anti-tank gun opened up, and two tanks were burning. Two of the tanks withdrew behind a house South of the road, and the third returned to the shelter of the woods ... The remaining light tanks from Company F resisted briefly, the company commander's gunner bouncing four rounds 37mm AP off the leading tank, but lieutenant GOOD's tank was promptly knocked out and further resistance was clearly useless. Nevertheless, Lieutenant Robert C. OSTDICK refused to leave with the rest, and was left behind." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Promoted to 1st Lt. 3 November 1944 (while still in MIA status, which did not end until 28 Nov 44) [source: F/87 Morning Report 6 Nov 44]
- 2nd Lt. James K. Shelton, Jr. (??? - 16 August 1944; 22 February 1945 - ???)
- 16 August 1944: Lightly wounded in action at Lèves, France, while F/87 attached to 38 AIB, and sent to hospital [source: F/87 Morning Report 16 August 1944]
- 22 February 1945: Transferred from B/87 (may have been former F/87 officer returned 10 January 1945 to B/87 via 92nd Replacement Battalion, since Lt. Knowlton considered Shelton to be on loan from F/87) [source: B/87 Morning Reports, Gen. William Knowlton]
- S/Sgt. (later 2nd Lt.) Robert R. Wanstead (States? - 6 December 1944 - ???)
- 22 August 1944: Lightly wounded in action between Marchans and Videlles, France and sent to 104th Evacuation Hospital (S/Sgt 38 057 210) [source: F/87 Morning Report2 22 August 1944, 5 September 1944]
- 5 December 1944: Discharged to accept appointment as 2nd Lt. (S/Sgt 38 037 [?2?]30) [source: F/87 Morning Report 5 Dec 44]
- 6 December 1944: Appointed 2nd Lt. per Verbal Order of Commanding General, Ninth US Army, APO 359 [source: F/87 Morning Report 6 Dec 44]
Medical Detachment (Med/87)
- Commanding Officer (Squadron Surgeon)
- Capt. Edward J. Hackett (??? - 13 September 1944)
- Killed 13 September while trying to aid Sgt. Rafuse of B/87 [source: Rudolph Zupan (his driver, in Winter 2002 "Workshop News")]
- "At this time the Squadron Surgeon, Captain EDWARD J. HACKETT, was mortally wounded while crawling forward to give aid to Sergeant Rafus, also killed in action." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 1st Lt. (later Capt.) Shoichi Asahina (13 September 1944 - VE Day - ???)
- 13 September 1944: Took over as Squadron Surgeon when Capt. Hackett was killed; had been assistant surgeon before that [source: George Shoichis Asahina]
- 16 November 1944: Promoted from 1st Lt. to Capt. [source: Med/87 20 Nov 44 Morning Report]
- 8 May 1945: with Medical Detachment [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Click here to see a photo of Capt. Asahina
- Assistant Squadron Surgeon
- 1st Lt. Shoichi Asahina (??? - 13 September 1944)
- Took over as Squadron Surgeon when Capt. Hackett was killed [source: George Shoichis Asahina]
- Click here to see a photo of Capt. Asahina
- 1st Lt. (later Capt.) Henry J. Herzog (on or after 13 September 1944 - ???)
- on or after 13 September 1944: Took over as Assistant Squadron Surgeon when Lt. Asahina moved up to Surgeon role [source: George Shoichis Asahina]
- 16 November 1944: Promoted from 1st Lt. to Capt. [source: Med/87 20 Nov 44 Morning Report]
- 8 May 1945: NOT with Medical Detachment [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Medical Detachment Enlisted Men
- Leo W. Ataman (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Fred Brantley (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Thomas Connor (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Gerald Jr. Cummings (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- John P. Ebbott (??? - on or after 9 August 1944 - before VE Day)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- John J. Jr. Farrell (??? - on or after 9 August 1944 - before VE Day)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Max F. Foote (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Iggie F. Grabowski (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Lovett C. Harrell (??? - on or after 9 August 1944 - before VE Day)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Elwood R Horn (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Curtis C. Jones (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Albert Kupchunas (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- James E McCarrick (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- John C. McLean (??? - on or after 9 August 1944 - before VE Day)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Alfred H. Miller (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- T. T. Morgan (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Earl Smith (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Lawrence P. Vanza (??? - on or after 9 August 1944 - before VE Day)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Louis A. Violette (??? - on or after 9 August 1944 - before VE Day)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- Herbert D Winston (??? - VE Day - ???)
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment]
- T/3 Rudolph P Zupancic (??? - VE Day - ???) - Surgical Technician
[source: VE Day Roster of Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, and Medical Detachment; rank & role thanks to Michael Furlich]
Troop Unknown
Return to top of 87th Recon Sqdn page
SQUADRON-LEVEL OFFICERS AND STAFF OF THE 87th CAVALRY RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON (MECHANIZED)
Note that the text for all of the 87th Recon After Action Reports can be viewed by clicking here.
Commanding officers (CO's) of the Squadron were:
- Pre-Combat
- Lt. Col. John H. Claybrook (??? - 16 March 1943 [87th Armored Reconnaissance Battalion])
Transferred to Armored Force Headquarters at Ft. Knox, KY [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Combat
- Maj. (later Lt. Col.) Vincent Laurence Boylan (16 March 1943 [Maj.] - 30 September 1944 [Lt. Col.] - left by 3 June 1945)
- Click here to contact his nephew Roy William Boylan for more information about him.
- 16 March 1943 [Maj.] [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report, 7AD Sep 44 After Action Report]
- 30 September 1944 [Lt. Col.] [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report, 7AD Sep 44 After Action Report]
- 14-15 December 1944: On "Ord lv" - some kind of leave [source: Sq Hq/87 Morning Reports 14-15 Dec 1944]
- On or before 3 June 1945: "As of 29 July 1945, Major RUSSELL F. KAISER assumed command of the Squadron, Lieutenant Colonel VINCENT L. BOYLAN having left to assume command of the 40th Amphibious Tractor Battalion, and Major CHARLES A. CANNON, JR. having been transferred to the 1st Armored Division." [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- David O. Cooper (?States? - transferred to C/87 in September 1944; KIA 6 September 1944 as Pvt.)
- Kermit B. Elliott (September 1944 - duration)
Post-Combat
- Maj. Charles A. Cannon, Jr. (between 2 May and 3 June 1945 - left 87 Rcn sometime between 6-29 July 1945)
- At some point between 2 May and 3 June 1945, after having been Executive Officer, he assumed command of the squadron and signed both the May (signed 3 June 1945) and June (signed 6 July 1945) After Action Reports as commanding officer. [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- "As of 29 July 1945, Major RUSSELL F. KAISER assumed command of the Squadron, Lieutenant Colonel VINCENT L. BOYLAN having left to assume command of the 40th Amphibious Tractor Battalion, and Major CHARLES A. CANNON, JR. having been transferred to the 1st Armored Division." [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Maj. Russell F. Kaiser (29 July 1945 - 6 August 1945)
"As of 29 July 1945, Major RUSSELL F. KAISER assumed command of the Squadron, Lieutenant Colonel VINCENT L. BOYLAN having left to assume command of the 40th Amphibious Tractor Battalion, and Major CHARLES A. CANNON, JR. having been transferred to the 1st Armored Division." [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Maj. Clyde W. Bradshaw (6-23 August 1945)
"On the 6th of August, Major CLYDE W. BRADSHAW assumed command relieving Major RUSSELL F. KAISER, who became Executive Officer. Major BRADSHAW was transferred on 23 August and Major KAISER again assumed command of the Squadron." [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Maj. Russell F. Kaiser (23 August 1945 - ???)
"On the 6th of August, Major CLYDE W. BRADSHAW assumed command relieving Major RUSSELL F. KAISER, who became Executive Officer. Major BRADSHAW was transferred on 23 August and Major KAISER again assumed command of the Squadron." [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
Executive officers of the Squadron were:
- Maj. Charles A. Cannon, Jr. (??? - 5 September 1943 - left 87 Rcn on or before 29 July 1945)
There are many mentions of Maj. Cannon in the 87 Recon After Action Report, so that I am only including bracketing and a single highly significant event in the list below. Scroll up to the top of this section to see the red text that links you to the text of the After Action Reports.
- [5 September 1943] "On 5 September, 1943 Companies "A" and "C" departed Fort Benning, Georgia, for Barnwell and Aiken, South Carolina, respectively, to organize and operate temporary Prisoner of War Camps for German Prisoners engaged in the harvesting of peanuts. These units returned to Fort Benning, Georgia, 8 October 1943. Major Charles A. Cannon, Jr., 0-23835, Squadron Executive Officer, was in command of these detachments." [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- "[6 September 1944] Force "C", representing the main effort, was divided in three parts. First came the reconnaissance troop ("D") commanded by Captain WILLIAM A. RAU, then the Advance Guard, commanded by Major CHARLES A. CANNON, JR. (the Advance Guard consisted of two platoons from Company "A" 17th Tank Battalion plus the company headquarters, Company "C" 38th Armored Infantry Battalion, and Battery "C" 274th Armored Field Artillery Battalion)." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- At some point between 2 May and 3 June 1945, he assumed command of the squadron and signed both the May and June After Action Reports as commanding officer. [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- ???
- Maj. Russell F. Kaiser (6-23 August 1945)
"On the 6th of August, Major CLYDE W. BRADSHAW assumed command relieving Major RUSSELL F. KAISER, who became Executive Officer. Major BRADSHAW was transferred on 23 August and Major KAISER again assumed command of the Squadron." [Source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
S-1 officers (personnel, Adjutant) and staff of the Squadron were:
- S-1 Officers
- 2nd Lt. Fred W. Lambdin (January 1944 - ???)
Signed January 1944 report for 1943 as Adjutant [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- lst Lt. Trent Newton (??? - about 1 June 1944)
went to England prior to Division, as part of advance detachment [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- lst Lt. William Knowlton (about 1- about 12 June 1944)
S-1 during the trip to the ETO, since Trent Newton was with the advance detachment [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- lst Lt. Trent Newton (about 12 June 1944 - 3 September 1944 - ???)
resumed S-1 role when Division arrived in ETO; wounded in Holland; returned to squadron in March 1945 [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
signed 3 September 1944 cover letter for After Action Report for August 1944 as Adjutant [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 1st Lt. William Knowlton (?October/November? 1944 - mid-December 1944)
Replaced wounded Lt. Newton in Holland; had been intended to assume B/87 command but injured in accident in mid-December
[source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- 1st Lt. George D. Williamson (13 December 1944 - 19 December 1944)
- 7 November 1944: From B/87 to slightly sick to 41st Evacuation Hospital [source: B/87 Morning Report 7 Nov 44]
- 13 December 1944: Assigned and joined from HQ 18th Replacement Depot, APO 872, per par 8 SO #251 HQ 7AD. [source: Sq Hq/87 Morning Report 13 Dec 44]
- was S-1 officer between S-1 assignments of William Knowlton [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- 19 December 1944: Transferred to B/87 from Squadron Headquarters [source: Sq Hq/87 and B/87 Morning Reports 19 Dec 44]
- 1st Lt. William Knowlton (20 December 1944 - 31 December 1944)
- 20 December 1944: Assigned enroute to join from 289th General Hospital per par 2 SO #256 HQ 7AD [source: Sq Hq/87 Morning Report 21 Dec 44]
- 23 December 1944: From enroute to join to joined this date [source: Sq Hq/87 Morning Report 23 Dec 44]
- Returned from a week of hospitalization after accident; still intended to assume B/87 command but B/87 cut-off, so he resumed S-1 position; assumed command of "B" Troop 31 Dec 44 [source: Gen. William Knowlton]
- 31 December 1944: Transferred from Squadron Headquarters to B/87 [source: Sq Hq/87 and B/87 Morning Reports 31 Dec 44]
- ???
- lst Lt. Trent Newton (??? - March 1945 - VE Day - ???)
- Returned to squadron in March 1945 [source: Gen. William Knowlton] - but was he S-1 upon his return???
- with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Administrative and Personnel Officer
- CWO Edward H. Rogers (?States? - duration)
- with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- "As far as I know he was with the 87th all the way." [source: Communication Chief Michael Furlich]
- Enlisted Men [source: Communications Chief Michael Furlich]
- Personnel Sergeant
- T/Sgt Sanford M Little (??? - ???)
- Others
- Shannon H Goertz (??? - ???)
- Gustav Bortz (??? - ???)
- Cpl Theodore Domanski (??? - ???)
- S-1 Enlisted Men [provided by Michael Furlich, who was Communications Chief: "These men actually were with S-1 at Squadron HQs. Not rear echelon."]
- Sergeant Major
- M/Sgt Leonard K. Sedge (?States? - ?duration?)
- Clerks
- Edward J. Mierenfeld (?States? - ?duration?)
- Paul J. St. Louis (?States? - ?duration?)
- Others
- T/Sgt. Stanley E. Laser (?States? - ?duration?)
S-2 officers (intelligence) and staff of the Squadron were:
- S-2 Officer
- Assistant S-2 Officer
- 2nd Lt. Don Stamm (??? - VE Day - ???)
with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
S-3 officers (operations) and staff of the Squadron were:
- S-3 Officer
- Maj. Russell F. Kaiser (??? - duration)
Assumed command of the Squadron 29 July 1945 [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- Operations Sergeant
- T/Sgt Charles O. Lefkowitz (??? - duration)
- with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- rank & role [source: Michael Furlich]
Operations Clerk
- T/5 George J. Haritopulos (??? - duration)
- with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- rank & role [source: Michael Furlich]
S-3 Half-Track Driver [source: Michael Furlich]
- David M. Grellick (??? - wounded at Nederweert, Netherlands [Oct or Nov 1944])
S-4 officers (supply) and staff of the Squadron were:
- S-4 Officer
- Capt. Malcolm A. McKellar (??? - VE Day - ???)
with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Armored Car Driver for S-4 Officer
- Michael Klemick (??? - ???)
Communications Officers and Staff of the Squadron were:
- Communications Officer
- Capt. Arthur R. Slade (??? - 3 September 1944 - November 1944 - duration)
- signed as Unit Historian on 3 September 1944 the August 1944 After Action Report, in October 1944 the September After Action Report, in November 1944 the October After Action Report [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Communications Chief
- T/Sgt. Michael Furlich (July 1943 - duration)
From Michael Furlich - March 23, 2009, amended April 1, 2009:
Duties: Communications Chief 87th Reconnaissance Squadron Mechanized, T/Sgt reporting to Captain Arthur R Slade
27 enlisted men As follows
- 1 S/Sgt, Message Center Chief. Michael F Iocco
- 1 Sgt Messenger Dispatcher Phillip Hurt
- 1 Communications Sgt, Alexander Dalpos
- 2 Radio Repairmen
- T/4 Ross Fleisher
- T/5 Joseph Hnat
- 10 Radio Operators ranks of Pvt – T/4
- 4 Half Track Drivers, Pvt and PFC
- 8 Messenger PEEP drivers
In addition (from the line troops and Tank Company were included for training)
- 6 Communications Sgts
- 24 Radio Operators (partial list below)
- Flaherty, John V, Queens NY
- Brooks, Hugh T, Groton NY
- Kakuk, John J,Stephenson MI
- Shanfelt, Curtiss C, Mauch Chunk PA
- Ciociola, Francis, Philadelphia PA
- D’ Esposito, Philip J, Brklyn NY
- Friedman, Glenn, Cleveland OH
- Wood, Richard E, Beacon NY
- Edmunds, Brehaut, Long Beach CA
- Ullrich, Clifford J, New Stanto PA
- Monroe, Samuel C, NY NY
- Gustavino Dominick K, Bronx NY
- Ellison, Reuble, Ferris TX
- 6 Radio Repairmen
My responsibilities included training Morse Code, Radio Procedure Signaling Panels. And assignments.
There were 152 radios of which approximately 12 were AM that required trained operators. The remainder was FM for voice communications and required Procedure training for all Officers, First 3 Graders and radio operators. All command vehicles had 1 CW [CW = continuous wave, used for morse code] and one FM radio.
Division furnished a more powerful radio after we advanced beyond the range of our regular CW Radios requiring Panel communication with aircraft.
Special Services issued motion picture projector, portable PA system and record turntable that also became our responsibity.
Shortly after we were committed Lt Col Boylan requested a switchboard to be used when ever possible. Since it was unauthorized we had to scrounge for wire and we had to run the wire to all line outfits, any staff that requested plus to Combat Command. The wire crew was Sgt Iocco, T/4 Fleisher, a messenger who worked for Southern Bell and me.
We started out with a 6 line switchboard and ended the war with 2 12 line boards.
At war’s end we had to turn them in and “found” a German 20 line board.
In addition those duties I was required to train the Squadron in ENEMY AIRCRAFT IDENTIFICATION. In fact one occasion I was require to make presentation to the entire division.
Added by Michael Furlich - May 28, 2009:
S/SGT MICHAEL F IOCCO MESSAGE CENTER CHIEF
Duties
- Train Radio Operators in the handling of messages.
- Use of M-209 Cipher Device.
- Use of Code Books
- Train Messenger Dispatcher and Messengers to properly handle messages especially during road marches.
- Train all Communications personnel in the use Signaling Panels and Lamps.
- While in combat he would assemble all the file copies of the messages from the staff vehicles for the Unit Historian. After the Historian developed a draft of his After Action and approved by Lt Colonel Boylan, Sgt Iocco would be among the men typing the report. It had to be typed twice as 6 copies were required.
- In addition Sgt Iocco handled the Special Services PA System and Motion Picture Projector.
- Sgt Iocco Relieved Radio Operators and Switchboard Operators whenever necessary.
- He also served on the wire Crew
- His duties also required him to keep supplies on hand auch as Candles, pencils, matches, tapes foe chipher device, message books typing and carbon paper.
When he wasn't doing any of that he rested??
A couple of stories.
- In Holland just a few minutes after showing the movie "The Song Of Bernadette" he removed all of the equipment and getting maybe 50 feet from the movie site an enemy shell hit the tent.
- During the Bulge he was in a Small concrete building when an enemy shell hit it. He walked into the Command Post and it looked as though he was covered with flour.
|
- Communications Half-Track Driver [source: Michael Furlich]
- James E Cameron (??? - wounded in Bulge)
- Earl Quinn (replaced Cameron - ???)
Squadron Surgeons were:
- Capt. Edward J. Hackett (??? - 13 September 1944)
- Killed 13 September while trying to aid Sgt. Rafuse of B/87 [source: Rudolph Zupan (his driver, in Winter 2002 "Workshop News")]
- "At this time the Squadron Surgeon, Captain EDWARD J. HACKETT, was mortally wounded while crawling forward to give aid to Sergeant Rafus, also killed in action." [source: 87 Rcn After Action Report]
- 1st Lt. (later Capt.) Shoichi Asahina (13 September 1944 - VE Day - ???)
- 13 September 1944: Took over as Squadron Surgeon when Capt. Hackett was killed; had been assistant surgeon before that [source: George Shoichis Asahina]
- 16 November 1944: Promoted from 1st Lt. to Capt. [source: Med/87 20 Nov 44 Morning Report]
- 8 May 1945: with Medical Detachment [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Click here to see a photo of Capt. Asahina
Motor Officer:
- 1st Lt. Henry P. Aldinger (??? - VE Day - ???)
with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
Officers and Enlisted Men with unknown role in Squadron Headquarters
- Capt. George Gosch, Jr. (??? - VE Day - ???)
with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- 2nd Lt. Charles G. Jennings (??? - VE Day - ???)
with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Capt. James H. Madden (28 December 1944 - ???)
- 28 December 1944: Assigned and joined 28 Dec 44 from HQ 92nd Replacement Battalion, APO 153, per par 1 SO #259 HQ 7AD; principal duty not yet assigned [source: Sq Hq/87 Morning Report 31 Dec 44]
- Half-Track Driver for unknown section [source: Michael Furlich]
- John W Mindzak (??? - ???)
- 1st Lt. Richard Montgomery (30 October 1944 - VE Day - ???)
- Transferred from C/87 to Squadron Headquarters 30 October 1944 [source: C/87 Morning Report]
- with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
- Capt. John W. Wells, Jr. (?early Jan 45? - VE Day - ???)
- Transferred at some point early January 1945 to Squadron Headquarters? [surmised from A/87 CO list sources and VE Day Roster and from not appearing on December 1944 Morning Reports of Sq Hq/87]
- with Squadron Headquarters 8 May 1945 [source: VE Day Roster (Squadron HQ, HQ & Service Troop, Medical Detachment)]
Return to top of 87th Recon Sqdn page
BOOKS AND RESEARCH MATERIALS SPECIFICALLY ABOUT THE 87th CAVALRY RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON (MECHANIZED):
- Unit History and After Action Reports of the 87th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized): Robert F. Porecca (Click here to e-mail him), son of 87 Recon's T/4 Frank D. Porecca, and Roy W. Boylan (Click here to e-mail him), nephew of 87 Recon's CO Col. Vincent L. Boylan, have done a great service and obtained and transcribed the Unit History for 1943 and the complete After Action Reports covering August 1944 through August 1945. Click on the title above to go to the 7th Armored Division auxiliary web site, where you will find the 87 Recon After Action Report listed under each month. (Although they are listed separately for each month, the reports for the entire duration are in a single document file.)
- 87th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized) Morning Report Stations (Locations) and Record of Events: Beverly Kent (daughter of Eugene O'Connor of B/87) has been gradually obtaining and transcribing and indexing the 87 Recon Morning Reports since 2003. I have made a spreadsheet of the Stations and Record of Events entries for each day from the copies of the Morning Reports and transcripts that Bev has sent me. These are a gold mine of information about where each troop was on any given day. Click on the title above to go to the 7th Armored Division Document Repository, where you will find the 87 Recon Morning Reports listed under most months. (Althought they are listed separately for each month, the reports for the entire duration are in a single spreadsheet file.)
- Combat Interviews of the 87th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized): St. Vith Salient December 17-21, 1944: Click here to find out about these interviews.
Return to top of 87th Recon Sqdn page
BOOKS THAT MENTION THE 87th CAVALRY RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON (MECHANIZED):
This is a growing list. Please forgive me for any omissions and let me know, so I can add them.
- Entire War
- Official Records of the 38th Armored Infantry Battalion: After Action Reports, Journals and more (Click here for more information, ordering instructions, and samples for December 19, 1944.)
- France: August - September 1944
- 7th Armored Division: August 1944 (Click here for information about this book.)
- Blumenson, Martin. Breakout and Pursuit. Washington: Office of the Chief of Military History, United States Army, 1989.
A volume in the US Army in World War II series
- Kemp, Anthony. The Unknown Battle: Metz, 1944. New York: Stein and Day, 1981.
- Overloon and Meijel, Holland: September-November 1944
- Altes, A. Kornthals and N. K. C. A. in't Veld. The Forgotten Battle: Overloon and the Maas Salient 1944-45. Sarpedon, 1995.
- Battle of the Bulge: December 1944 - January 1945
- Defense of St. Vith Salient and Manhay Area: Belgium, December 1944
- US Army Armored School Research and Evaluation Division. The Defense of St. Vith, Belgium 17-33 December 1944: An historical example of armor in the defense. Fort Knox: Armored School. (Click here for information on this book.)
- Boyer at St. Vith: Major Donald P. Boyer's "Personal Report: Narrative Account of Action of 38th Armored Engineer Battalion,
7th Armored Division, Battle of St. Vith, 17-22 December 1944"
and "Notes - The Battle of St. Vith, 17-22 December 1944" (Click here for information about this book.)
- Combat Interviews of the 23rd Armored Infantry Battalion: The St. Vith Salient December 17-23, 1944 (Click here for information about this book.)
- Combat Interviews of the 31st Tank Battalion: St. Vith Salient December 17-23, 1944 (Click here for information about this book.)
- Combat Interviews of the 33rd Armored Engineer Battalion: St. Vith, Belgium December 1944 (Click here for information about this book.)
- Combat Interviews of the 38th Armored Infantry Battalion: St. Vith Salient December 17-21, 1944 (Click here for information about this book.)
- Combat Interviews of the 48th Armored Infantry Battalion: St. Vith Salient December 17-21, 1944 (Click here for information about this book.)
- Combat Interviews of 7th Armored Division Artillery: Div Arty, 434th AFAB, 489th AFAB at St. Vith and Poteau, Belgium - December 1944 (Click here for information about this book.)
- Recapture of St. Vith, Belgium: January 1945
- The 7th Armored Division Goes Back: St. Vith, Belgium 20-23 January 1945 (Click here for information about this book.)
Return to top of 87th Recon Sqdn page
Click here for information about contacting me.
Copyright © 2022 by
Wesley Johnston
All rights reserved
7th Armored Division Association Home Page
Active overview of all pages at the 7th Armored Division web site