Herman Kratz - 123rd Inf. Regiment.

Name: Herman Kratz
Unit: 123rd REGT, 33rd INF DIV
Rank: SGT
Volunteer: No
Drafted: Yes
Induction: Camp Custer, MI
Where: Detroit, MI Dec 42
Age: 20
Discharged: DEC 1945
Overseas: MAY 43
 

Weapons

M1 light machinegun (30 cal)

Decorations

OSR, SW Pacific Campaign ribbons

First Combat

On the road to Baggio.

Vivid Memory

On the the road to Baggio several buddies of mine were killed along with our Captain. A riflemen Squad leader first ordered me, but then another soldier to move forward and lay down suppressive fire. That soldier did and was killed. We moved back and stayed in that area for several days.

Funniest Memory

Nothing too funny. Most enjoyable was talking to the natives and the letters from girlfriend(s).

Worst Memory

The road to Baggio.

Final Comments

Thankful to the Good Lord for allowing me the opportunity to come back from the war to the United States to marry a beautiful wife and raise a family.