The WWII Scrapbook of Mrs. Evelyn (Mastovich) Raich - A Missing Helmet & Nearly 900 Names of Killed, Wounded, Missing & Prisoners to Local Medal of Honor Winners

On this Memorial Day Weekend - I have something that is very special and precious - courtesy of member - Michael Raich. Thank you for letting me share this with others. 

His mother -  Mrs. Evelyn (Mastovich) Raich kept a scrapbook during WWII. She kept track for years - all the clippings from the Johnstown newspapers of  killed, wounded, missing and prisoners - nearly 900 names in all!

She also saved the newspaper accounts of Congressional Medal of Honor winners - Lt. John J. Tominac from Franklin Borough and Lt. Edward A. Silk of Johnstown - to which I added some modern information - since there are two local bridges named after them. 

She also included the story of the first female member of the Marine Corps Women's Reserve to die. She was Lt. Mary Rita Palowitch of Johnstown. Just a tragic chain of events for her that resulted in her young death. 

But first off - the scrapbook starts off with one of those amazing stories of "what was once lost  -  has now found a place of honor ". Mrs. Raich's brother was Lt. John C. Mastovich of Franklin Borough, who on June 17, 1944 (days after the D-Day landings) was fighting near the Fench village of Golleville as a member of Able Company - 90th Division. As the soldiers where trying to block the German advance - Lt. Mastovich was hit in the chest and neck. When he was being carried from the battlefield his helmet marked with TO "Tough 'Ombres", 1st Lt. insignia and his name on the inside band was left behind. Lt. Mastovich died of his wounds three days later. 

But that is not where his story ends by no means. Mastovich's helmet was found shortly after the battle by a French farmer - put away in a barn, played with by kids and then forgotten about for many years - just gathering dust - till one old high school friend gifted it to another. 

The June 30, 2013 edition of The Tribune-Democrat covers this interesting story of how one man made it his mission to find out more about Lt. Mastovich and help honor the legacy of this WWII soldier from Franklin Borough. 

June 30, 2013 - The Tribune-Democrat

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This is the clipping from the paper that they were talking about. 

June 24, 1944

OUR FIGHTING AMERICANS

Three Johnstown Soldiers Are Reunited in England.

First Lt. John C. Mastovich - Franklin Bor.

Sgt. Stanely Sadel of Cambria Alley

Pvt. William Sobditch - Pennsylvania Ave.

Other Name on bottom right - Tech Sgt. Stephen Gulyas of Vintondale

Oct. 14, 1942 - John C. Mastovich - Franklin Boy Chosen For Officers' School.

Further clippings stating Mastovich was wounded and then August 2, 1944 - he DIED of his wounds in England. 

On the same day - August 2, 1944 - Pfc. Peter Mraunac - Missing Franklin Soldier is dead. KILLED in France.

Mother Receives Purple Heart - Mrs. Mary (Drake) Appleman awarded posthumously to her son - Staff Sgt. Malcolm (Pinkie) Appleman KILLED in the D-Day Invasion.

Staff Sgt. Michael Bankovsky - Franklin Bor. - KILLED

Thursday Morning, February 8, 1945

Names of 3 More District Men Added To List of WAR DEAD.

Total of 25 Servicemen From Area Fall Casualties With 13 Reported Wounded, 6 Missing, 2 Injured, 1 Held Prisoner

Staff Sgt. Donald E. Geisler - St. Clairsville (Bedford County) - KILLED

Sgt. Edward Getzey - 265 Laurel Avenue - KILLED

Pvt. Joseph Kosjer - 26, Morrellville - KILLED - Leyte Island

--------------------------------

Staff Sgt. Joseph W. Roles - 23, Gallitzin - MISSING - one brother killed and another still missing

Staff Sgt. William Noon - South Fork - MISSING

Pvt. Robert G. Stafford - 23, South Fork - MISSING

Pfc. Robert J. Smith - 19, formerly of Geistown - MISSING

Pfc. Harry D. Knauer - 22, Conemaugh RD 1 - MISSING

Lt. Raymond E. Custer - 20, 508 Fronheiser St. - MISSING

------------------------------------

Pfc. Kenneth H. Bee - Boswell - WOUNDED

Pfc. Norbert E. Murphy - 22, Bakerton - WOUNDED
Pfc. Charles Presto - Mentcle, Indiana County - WOUNDED

President Franklin Roosevelt. 

Mrs. Raich must have had this picture hanging up somewhere inside the house because it has a bunch of pin holes at the top. 

Pvt. Daniel Saula - Franklin - WOUNDED

Pfc. Charles Derevjanik - Franklin Bor. - WOUNDED

Pvt. Joseph Matten - Franklin Bor. - PRISONER

Pvt. William A. Salem - Franklin Bor. - WOUNDED

Wednesday Morning - Sept. 8, 1943

2 District Boys KILLED in Action on Sicilian Front

Cpl. Peter Rasich, 24, 219 Fifth St. Conemaugh - KILLED

Pvt. Richard Pyle, 21 - Rockwood - KILLED

Sgt. Stephen J. O'Giela - Conemaugh - WOUNDED

Pfc. George Chanonich - Conemaugh - WOUNDED

Pvt. Michael Popovich Jr. - Conemaugh - MISSING

Lt. Charles A. Ashman - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Michael Scherbak - Johnstown - KILLED

Ensign George Peyton Jr. - Conemaugh - KILLED

Lt. Charles U. Rapp - Johnstown - KILLED

Cpl. Aloysius Paliszewski 21, Conemaugh - KILLED - Dive Bomber Crash

Lt. David F. Bheam Jr.  25, Richland - KILLED - B24 Crash

Sgt. Joseph Chorba - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Joseph Restifo - Johnstown - KILLED

Joseph Kemp - Meyersdale - KILLED

Sgt. William R. Bader - Johnstown - KILLED

Cpl. Lewis J. Murray - Acosta - KILLED

Herman J. Dinehart - Johnstown - KILLED

Sgt. Harry R. Stehnach - Conemaugh - KILLED

Pfc. John R. Lampel - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Elmer E. Simmons - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Robert B. Kimmel - Ferndale - KILLED

Lt. Lawrence D. Varner - Johnstown - KILLED

Lt. Richard A. Ross - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Calvin Heidorn - Walnut Grove - WOUNDED - DEAD 

Sgt. Frank A. Nino - Johnstown - KILLED

Sgt. John B. Mosso - Nanty Glo - LOST SOLDIER DEAD

Lt. Walter W. Pallas - St. Michael - KILLED

Pfc. William Pejack - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Wallace Rice - Johnstown - PRISONER

Lt. Daniel F. Knupp - Somerset - KILLED

Cpl. Chalmer Spangler - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Arthur Kurtz - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Raymond Goller - Cover Hill - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. Philip Langerholc - IN LOVING MEMORY

Pvt. Edward A. Maier - Johnstown RD 1 - KILLED

Pvt. Joseph J. Bluhm - Johnstown - KILLED

Lt. Edward R. Clauss 23, - Windber - KILLED - B24 Crash

Sgt. John P. Thomas - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Joseph Yuhas - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Cpl. Carroll Anderson - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Wilbert P. Wagner - Johnstown - KILLED

Sgt. Michael V. Negrey Jr, - Tire Hill - DIES IN FRANCE

Sgt, Walter Dinsmore - Ebensburg - KILLED

Pfc. Edward T. Kearns - Portage - KILLED

Pfc. Duane W. Duman 18, - Ebensburg - KILLLED - Remains sent home

Pfc. Paul Palyochick - St. Michael - KILLLED

Pvt. Philip Hamilton - Lilly - KILLED

Sgt. Glenn E. Miller - Hollsopple - KILLED

Sgt. Russell Bumford - South Fork - KILLED

Pfc. Stephen Dusik - St. Michael - KILLED

Sgt. Victor P. Zorman - Cairnbrook - KILLED

Pfc. James E. Sinclair - Portage RD2 - KILLED

Pvt. Anthony Mancusa - Barnesboro - KILLED

Lt. Gen. Cortney H. Hodges - Crashes into Germany

Pvt. Donald D. Marsh - Nicktown RD - KILLED

Pvt. David Weaver - South Fork - KILLED

Staff Sgt. Mike Svab - Colver - KILLED

Pfc. Steve Zugrovich - Central City - KILLED

Sgt. Leo C. Kuncelman - Ebensburg - KILLED

Pfc. John Guzel - Lloydell - KILLED

Pfc. Joseph J. Cenanti - Cresson - KILLED

Pfc. John Carruthers - Lilly - KILLED

Pfc. John A. Gegetski - Portage - KILLED
Sgt. Raymond, E. Hill - Johnstown - KILLED

Sgt, Clement E. Link - Patton RD - KILLED

Pfc. Henry A. Ciner - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. John Poraczky - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Joseph Legross - Hastings - KILLED

Sgt. Walter S. Vilga - Johnstown - KILLED

Sgt. William Popovich - Johnstown - KILLED
Pvt. Clair K. Kimmerer - Bakerton - KILLED

Sgt. John B. Mosso - Nanty Glo - KILLED
Pvt. Henry Palenscar - Nanty Glo - KILLED

Tech Sgt. Michael Mandichak - Gallitzin - KILLED

Pfc. Mike Kokinda - Central City - KILLED

Pvt. James L. Cummings - Portage Twp. - KILLED

Pfc. Paul E. Adams - Ralphton - KILLED

Pfc. Joseph A. Lacovic - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Killed In Fighting Overseas

Sgt. Gerald L. Younker - Windber RD - KILLED

Sgt. Victor P. Zorman - Cairnbrook - KILLED

Col. Edgar M. Wittan - Portage - KILLED

Staff Sgt. John Grdgon - Blairsville - KILLED

Lt. Theodore R. Ream - St. Benedict - KILLED

Sgt. Ralph F. Shortencarrier - Barnesboro - KILLED

Sgt. Edward L. Meyers - Hooversville - KILLED

Pvt. Stanley Miklas - South Fork - KILLED

Lt. Robert T. Waugh - Augusta ME - KILLED - MEDAL OF HONOR

Pfc. Eugene G. Wagner - Barnesboro - KILLED

Sgt. Steve Salata - Mine 40 - KILLED

Lt. Edgar E. Griffith - Ebensburg Rd - KILLED

Sgt. Peter Ambrose - Portage - KILLED

Sgt. Joseph E. Sanders - Lilly - KILLED

Pvt. Robert Allen - Shanksville - KILLED

Pfc. Karl E. Hofmann - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. John Shaffer - Conemaugh Twp. - DROWNED

Pfc. John M. Beam - Berkley Hills - KILLED

Last Soldier Name - UNREADABLE

Sgt. Anthony Bovino - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Anthony Sacca Jr. - St. Benedict - KILLED

Cpl. Charles J. Hanley - Johnstown KILLED

Seaman E. William Nemeth - KILLED IN PACIFIC

Capt. William Chaplin - Westmont - KILLED

Lt. James Earl Ogle - Westmont - KILLED

Cpl. Thomas Wolford - Bolivar - KILLED

Pfc. Joseph P. Grossi - Johnstown - KILLED

First Sgt. Robert A. Bowers - Johnstown - KILLED

Cpl. Lewis Hastings - Johnstown - KILLED
Pfc. Paul W. Baer - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Louis Goldhaber - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Frank A. Pallone - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Paul W. Conrad - Ashville - KILLED IN ACTION

Pfc. Michael Mitrus - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Bruno R. Ferline - Windber - KILLED

Sgt. Andrew Miller - Windber - KILLED

Pfc. Clarence R. Slagle - Johnstown RD2 - KILLED

Pvt. Earl E. Sarver - Hyndman - KILLED
Cpl. Joseph L. Mabon - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Wayne R. Fessler - South Fork - KILLED

Pvt. Frederick Kinley - Summerhill - KILLED

Sgt. Ralph L. Kingston - formerly of Flinton - KILLED

Sgt. Edgar Newman - Central City - KILLED

Pvt. Sheridan J. Keith - Cresson - KILLED

Cpl. Lochlion J. Hamp - Johnstown RD3 - KILLED

Pvt. Lanier W. Houston - Boswell - KILLED IN FRANCE

Lt. L. Joseph Franklin - Hastings - KILLED

Cpl. Hays H. (Bud) Beck - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. John P. McDonald - Spangler - KILLED

Pvt. Mike Mano - Marsteller - KILLED

Sgt. Olin Hall - Confluence - KILLED IN ACTION - GERMANY

Pfc. Russel K Weiss - Husband of Johnstown Girl (Peskuric) - KILLED IN ACTION - GERMANY

Pvt. Charles Turank - Cassandra - WOUNDED

Sgt. Benjamin Randall - Carrolltown - KILLED

Pvt. Michael Muzick - Dilltown - KILLED

Pvt. Paul Hudak - Johnstown - KILLED

Edmund L. Moberly - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Hyman Rose - 536 Fronheiser St - Tonsil Operation Fatal - Valley Forge Hospital

Cpl. Cromer C. Harding Jr. - Jenners - KILLED IN ACTION - Peleliu Island

3 District Fighters Make Supreme Sacrifice

Sgt. Fred Dumm - Nicktown Rd - KILLED

Boatswain Frank Macidym - Portage - KILLED

Sgt. Robert Morris - Beaverdale - KILLED
Sec. Lt. Clair F. Askew - Ebensburg - KILLED - MEMORIAL SERVICE

Cpl. Carl J. Pieger - Johnstown - KILLED
Pfc. Harry B. Yoder - Somerset RD 2 - KILLED

Pvt. Mike Slivenek - Beaverdale - KILLED

Cpl. Andrew S. Trimeloni - Central City - KILLED

Pvt. John Maguire - Hollsopple - WOUNDED

Pvt. Paul I. Jasper - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Michael Buydos - Barnesboro - WOUNDED

Pvt. William Freidman - Johnstown RD 7 - WOUNDED

Pvt. William F. Freidhoff - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Lt, Alvin W. Horton - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Cpl. John Grogan - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Cpl. Frank F. Bunja - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Manfredo J. Gasbarro - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Stephen Strozak - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Preston Symon - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. William P. Szuch - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. David Garretson - Johnstown RD 7 - WOUNDED

Pvt. Stanley Slisz - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Robert E. Brown - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Cpl. James M. McMullen - Johnstown RD 7 - WOUNDED

Pfc. William R. Margroum - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Stanley Bartos - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Michael Koplin - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Irwin Lewis - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Cpl. John T. Riddle - Tire Hill - WOUNDED

Pfc. John S. Klemen - Cover Hill - WOUNDED

Pvt. Domenick Glavach - Johnstown RD3 - WOUNDED

Pvt. John E. DeCoske - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Lt. Col. Sewell W. Crisman - Meyersdale - WOUNDED

Pfc. John Bracken - Johnstown RD4 - WOUNDED

Lt. Richard H. Stetler - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. John Bychak - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Joseph Duray - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Ernesr Livingston - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Lt. Patrick F. Daley - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Lt. Frank A. Klotz - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Pete Restivo - Johnstown - Brothers - WOUNDED

Pvt. Angelo Restivo - Johnstown - Brothers - WOUNDED

Sgt, Russell Bumford - South Fork - WOUNDED

Pfc. Daniel Donovan - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Thomas H, Evans - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Stanley Detz - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. Raymond E. Hill - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Charles Graham - Conemaugh - WOUNDED

Sgt. Anthony J. Zajac - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Stephen Gleydura Jr. - Barnesboro - WOUNDED

Pvt. Joe J. Gates - Windber - WOUNDED

Pvt. Donald Brumbaugh - Scalp Level - WOUNDED

Pvt. James Grdgon - Blairsville - WOUNDED

Pfc. Joseph J. Vettori - Ehrenfeld - WOUNDED

Pvt. Frank R. Yanek - Ebensburg - WOUNDED

Cpl. Joseph Orlowsky - Portage - WOUNDED

Pfc. Donald E. Pahel - South Fork RD - WOUNDED

Pvt. Michael Loupe - Nanty Glo - WOUNDED

Pfc. Bruno Fabbri - Gallitzin - WOUNDED

Lt. Hobart Grazier - Nanty Glo - WOUNDED

Pfc. Robert Murphy - Ebensburg - RD1 - WOUNDED

Pvt. Bertram - A. Bailey - Patton - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. Warren Trexler - Chest Springs - WOUNDED

Cpl. Arnold Dibble - Cresson - WOUNDED
Sgt. Joseph H. Solarczyk - Lilly - WOUNDED

Pfc. David Druhaloski - Central City - WOUNDED

Pvt. Glenn E. Seese - Windber - WOUNDED

Pvt. Donald A. McMullen - Johnstown RD 7 - WOUNDED

Pfc. Edward Rykalsky - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Joseph W. Urish - Revloc - WOUNDED

Sgt. Anthony F. Milavec - Central City - WOUNDED

Pvt. Henry J. Klinar - Hollsopple - WOUNDED

Pvt. Edgar W. Newman - Central City - MISSING

Lt. Gervase Eckenrod - Cresson - MISSING

Pfc. Harry Mowery - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Pvt. Carl Prestes - Portage - KILLED

Sgt. Richard Gross - 347 Highland Ave - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Lt. Robert C. McGuire - Cresson - WOUNDED

Pvt. Mahlon Evans - Ebensburg - WOUNDED

Jacob Warner - Lilly - WOUNDED

Pfc. C. Lee Shaffer - Salix - WOUNDED

Pvt. John S. Goslin 19, - Mine 40 - WOUNDED

Pfc. Robert E. Rhoades - New Florence - WOUNDED

Pvt. Robert F. Miller - Patton - WOUNDED

Pvt. Leslie Berger - Blandburg - WOUNDED

Cpl. Robert Grimes - Hollsopple - RD2 - WOUNDED

Pfc. Edgar Charles Wells Jr. - Ebensburg - WOUNDED

Pvt. William Jenkins - Patton - WOUNDED

Pvt. Regis Noel - Ebensburg - RD1 - WOUNDED

Pfc. Charles Alessi - Barnesboro - WOUNDED

Pfc. Donald E. Pahel - South Fork RD - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. William Popovich - Gallitzin - WOUNDED

Pfc. Donald Lohr - Hooverville - WOUNDED

Pvt. George Zuzulia - Dilltown  WOUNDED

Pvt. Frank Kalonish - Cairnbrook RD2 - WOUNDED

Pvt. William R. Weller - Richland Twp. - WOUNDED

Pfc. Buck Warzel - Twin Rocks - WOUNDED
Pvt. James Clauser - Portage - WOUNDED

Cpl. George Shedlock - Central City - WOUNDED

Sgt. Joseph R. Zwalesky - Hasting RD - WOUNDED

Pfc. Stephen A. Molnar - Mine 37 - WOUNDED

Pvt. Andrew Michrina - St. Benedict - WOUNDED

Pfc. Michael J. Bertanzetti - Gallitzin - WOUNDED

Pvt. John Pruchnic - Windber - WOUNDED

Pfc. Harold E. Shaffer - Windber - WOUNDED

Pfc. Leonard W. Cordwell - Portage RD2 - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. Wilfred Grogan 21, Gallitzin - WOUNDED - CONDITION UNFAVORABLE

Pfc. Edward Krumenacker - Carrolltown - WOUNDED

Sgt.John C. Green - Portage - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. George Herhei - Amsbry - WOUNDED
Pfc. Edward E. Ercol - Revloc - WOUNDED

Pfc. Otis Robbins Jr. - Revloc - WOUNDED
Sgt. William Selders - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt.Howard Long - Portage Twp. - WOUNDED

Pfc. Cash Gray - Coalport - WOUNDED

Pvt. Michael G. Pavia - Patton - WOUNDED

Cpl. Clyde W. Tiffany - Seward - WOUNDED

Pfc. Joseph Perrone - Spangler - WOUNDED

Cpl. William R. Hollen - Ebensburg - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. Frank Waltos 27, - WOUNDED - BUT NOT MISSING

Pvt. August Rusnak - Portage - WOUNDED

Pfc. Carl W. Slabe - WOUNDED

Cpl. Stanley Niovich - Scalp Level - WOUNDED
Pfc. Stanley Shostek - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Wesley M. Cressley - Cherry Tree RD2 - WOUNDED

Pvt. Calvin K. Saly - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Pvt. George Dean Evans - South Fork - WOUNDED

Pvt. John Sefko - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Robert J. Albright - Patton - WOUNDED

Pvt. Dallas J. Knox - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Rayford McCreary - New Paris RD - WOUNDED

Pvt/. Arthur Popovich - Gallitzin - WOUNDED

Pvt. Clyde Conway - Gallitzin - WOUNDED

Pvt. Edwin Post - Johnstown RD 4- WOUNDED

Pfc. William Ellis - Portage - WOUNDED

Pfc. Kenneth A. Spires - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. George Puglise - Lilly - WOUNDED

Pfc. James W. Geiser - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Joseph Lokey - Spangler - WOUNDED

Pfc. Victor Iapalucci - Lilly - WOUNDED

Pfc. Arthur H. James Jr. - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Paul Vrabel - Portage Twp. - WOUNDED

George Krumenacker - Nicktown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Raymond R. Wagner - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. John Zahorchak - Central City - WOUNDED

Pfc. Frank W. Holupka - Boltz - WOUNDED

Lewis B, Litzinger - Johnstown RD1 - WOUNDED

Lt. Richard A. Ross - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. James Stevens - Carrolltown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Carmen Weaver - Windber - WOUNDED

Pvt. Steve Puchko - South Fork RD1 - WOUNDED

Pfc. Kenneth W. Evans - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Harry R. McDowell - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Pvt. Robert Lydic - Commodore RD - WOUNDED

Sgt. Vincent J. Eckenrode - Carrolltown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Nick Zajac - Johnstown RD1 - WOUNDED
Pvt. Donald Bench - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Cpl. George Yutzey - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul D. Griffith - Eighth Ward - WOUNDED
Sgt. Gust Jeschonek - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Wilfred J. Becker - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Walter Leonard - Gallitzin - WOUNDED

Pvt. Oscar L. Schlee - Scalp Level - WOUNDED

Pfc. Eugene F. Cymbor - Bakerton - PRISONER

Pfc. Garald J. Lohr - Hooversville RD1 - WOUNDED

Sgt. Arthur M. Shawley - Jenners - WOUNDED
Pfc. Joseph Skalak - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Joseph F. Kozuch - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Cpl. William Heckman - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Pvt. Robert. W. Ackerman - Meyersdale RD2 - WOUNDED
Pvt. Charles E. Strick Jr. - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Frank D. Gall - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Sgt. Paul Kerekes - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. James J. Trofino - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul Goff - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Capt. Marvin C. McKee - Blairsville - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul Goff - Morrellville - WOUNDED

Sgt. Freeman Caretti - Patton - WOUNDED

Pfc. Emory M. Stockberg - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. John J. Prismar Jr. - Central City RD1 - WOUNDED

Lt. Jack B. Sacks - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Walter B. Williams - Patton - WOUNDED

Pfc. William J. Urban - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Dean D. Miller - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Lt. Harry T, Rodgers - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Walter Berezowsky - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Cpl. Russell G, Gillman - South Fork - WOUNDED

Pfc. Clarence Opperman - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt, Daniel Stonerook - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Capt. Marvin Clyde McKee - Blairsville - WOUNDED

Pvt. George Doubt - Nanty Glo - WOUNDED

Pfc. Joseph Soohy - St, Michael - WOUNDED

Pfc. Samuel Suchman - Nanty Glo - WOUNDED

Tech Sgt. Fujio Bianconi - Cresson - WOUNDED

Pvt. Edward Baer - Cassandra - WOUNDED

Sgt. Warren Trexler - Ashville - WOUNDED

Sgt. Charles R. Bence - Lloydell - WOUNDED

Cpl. Albert Wurm - Ebensburg - WOUNDED
Pfc. James Fleming - Windber - INJURED

Cpl. Eugene O. Hazel - Johnstown RD - WOUNDED
Sgt. Fred Baumgardner - Mineral Point - WOUNDED

Sgt. Freeman Caretti - Patton - WOUNDED

Sgt. Louis J. Tuscano - Meyersdale - WOUNDED

Cpl. Robert L. Ferrel - WOUNDED AT ANZIO

Pfc. Paul Gozdik 24, - Central City - WOUNDED SERIOUSLY

Capt. Bryon Gifford - Johnstown - WOUNDED SERIOUSLY

Pvt. Carmella Bucca - Cresson - WOUNDED

Pfc. John J. Lucas - Lilly RD - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. Ralph Rummell - Vintondale - WOUNDED
Pvt. Robert Allen - Shanksville - WOUNDED
Pfc. Joseph Oshansky - Conemaugh - WOUNDED

Pfc. Joseph Drenchko - Johnstown RD - WOUNDED
Pfc. Robert F. McCaa - Gallitzin - WOUNDED

Pfc. John S. Difalco - Prospect - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul Boratko - Tenth Ward - WOUNDED

Lt. Jesse F. Burley - Cresson - WOUNDED
Lt. Steohen Walco - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Thomas Bremer - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul Repak - Morrellville - WOUNDED

Pvt. John E. Malloy - St. Benedict - WOUNDED
Sgt. Clifford Fleming - Windber - WOUNDED

Sgt. Robert Whysong - Tanneryville - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. Michael R. Matish - Fallen Timber - WOUNDED

Pfc. Alfred K. Stober - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul J. Gozdick - Central City - WOUNDED

Staff Sgt. Angelo Taddie - Gallitzin - WOUNDED

Cpl. Arnold Jacobs - Hollsopple - WOUNDED

Pvt. Gordon J. Adams - Richland Twp. - WOUNDED

Cpl. Debore Reed - Windber - WOUNDED

Cpl. John F. Seth - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Pvt. George Bushi - Portage Twp. - WOUNDED

Pfc. Philip Samuel Manganello - 754 Duke Alley - PURPLE HEART - GUADALCANAL

**His brother Anthony has been MISSING IN ACTION since May 29, 1944**

Article from The Johnstown Democrat - Tuesday Morning, June 6, 1944

Lt. Mary Rita Palowitch Loses Life as Fire Hits Marine Base

Johnstown District suffers its first girl casualty of the war. 

She was from 993 Ash Street - member of the Marine Corps Women's Reserve stationed at Cherry Point NC. 

Farewell to Arms - Funeral for Lt. Mary Rita Palowitch - St. Patrick's Church - daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John J. Palowitch. 

The Johnstown Democrat

Thursday Morning, March 8, 1945

Lt. Tominac of Franklin Bor. Wins Congressional Medal of Honor

America's Highest Military Award Is Given Local Soldier.

His mother is Mrs. Katherine Chalich of 159 Main Street - Franklin Bor. 

He was awared the medal for his role in capturing 52 Germans in France.

Only the second local soldier to receive the award as of March 1945 (later in October 1945 - Lt. Edward A. Silk will also be awared the medal - his clippings will be next after Tominac). The first recipient from our area was Pfc. John W. Dutko of Homer City who was awarded the medal following his death May 23, 1944 when he staged a one-man blitz to knock out 11 Germans manning an 88mm and three machine guns. 

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3rd Infantry Division Soldiers receive Medals of Honor at the newly secured Zepplinfeld Stadium in Nuremberg, Germany, in April 1945. Left to right: Lt. Col. Keith L. Ware, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment; 1st Lt. John J. Tominac, Company I, 15th Inf. Regt.; Tech. Sgt. Russell Dunham, Company I, 30th Infantry Regiment; Staff Sgt. Lucian Adams, Co. I, 30th Inf. Regt. and Pvt. Wilburn K. Ross, Company G, 30th Inf. Regt.

The Maple Avenue Bridge is names after John Joseph Tominec. 

Next up - October 12, 1945 - Lt. Edward Silk Draws Laughter as Truman Presents Congressional Medal of Honor.

The article says that: Lt. Edward A. Silk, rear 213 1/2 Horner St. Johnstown, Pa. drew the only laughter during the ceremony when his citation revealed that the husky young platoon leader had frightened a German machine gun crew into surrendering by throwing rocks through windows after he ran out of ammunition and grenades.

Lt. Silk grinned, the President grinned, and the crowd laughed more in amazement than amusement.

The lieutenant turned into a one-man task force during a battle in the St. Prayel of France. Single-handed he cleaned out a German strongpoint in the farm house and when on to flush another in a nearby shed.

His Citation reads as follows:

Running 100 yards across an open field to the shelter of a low stone wall directly in front of the farmhouse, he fired into the door and windows with his carbine; then, in full view of the enemy, vaulted the wall and dashed 50 yards through a hail of bullets to the left side of the house, where he hurled a grenade through a window, silencing a machinegun and killing 2 gunners. In attempting to move to the right side of the house he drew fire from a second machinegun emplaced in the woodshed. With magnificent courage he rushed this position in the face of direct fire and succeeded in neutralizing the weapon and killing the 2 gunners by throwing grenades into the structure. His supply of grenades was by now exhausted, but undaunted, he dashed back to the side of the farmhouse and began to throw rocks through a window, demanding the surrender of the remaining enemy. Twelve Germans, overcome by his relentless assault and confused by his unorthodox methods, gave up to the lone American. By his gallant willingness to assume the full burden of the attack and the intrepidity with which he carried out his extremely hazardous mission, 1st Lt. Silk enabled his battalion to continue its advance and seize its objective.

He died atthe age of 39 from complications from a peptic ulcer.

The Napolean Street Bridge is named in his honor.

Cpl. Walter E. Wentz - Johnstown RD 4 - MISSING
Pfc. Frank Drzal - 25, Johnstown RD3 - REPORTED PRISONER

Cpl. George Boblick - Windber - PRISONER

Sgt. John Domogala - Central City - PRISONER

Pvt. Jack Schoening 23, Orange Avenue - PRISONER

Seaman Luther Myers - South Fork - MISSING

Pvt. Jack Schoening - Johnstown RD1 - MISSING

Pfc. Albert S. Osborn - Morrellville - MISSING

Lt. Harry O'Connor - Cresson - PRISONER

Seaman Frank Scarletta - Johnstown RD2 - MISSING

Tech Sgt. Casimer E. Plis - Johnstown - PRISONER

Pfc. John Durbin - Cresson - MISSING

Lt. Robert C. Wisor - Johnstown - PRISONER

Pfc. Dean D. Miller - Johnstown - MISSING

Sgt. William W. Stoyanoff - Former Johnstowner - MISSING

Cpl. Elmer R. Schellhammer - Cover Hill - MISSING

Pvt. William J. Lehman - Johnstown - MISSING

Pvt. Thomas Evans - Johnstown - PRISONER

Lt. Glaudio D. Schelfe - Marsteller - MISSING

Cpl. Rodney Mitchell - Windber RD1 - MISSING

Pvt. Irwin A. Graham - South Fork - MISSING
Maj. George Simler Jr. - Ferndale - MISSING

Staff Sgt. Walter F. Dinsmore - Ebensburg - MISSING

Pfc. Frank J. Drzal - Johnstown RD 3 - MISSING SINCE D-DAY

Lt. Michael Krivonak - Cnetral City - MISSING

Lt. William Paterick - Lilly - PRISONER

Pvt. Henry E. Kinkead - Johnstown - MISSING

Pvt. Roy H. James - Ebensburg - MISSING

Pvt. John Greathouse - Stoystown RD2 - PRISONER

Lt. Donald B. Beers - Blandburg - PRISONER

Lt. Donald R. Stull - Johnstown - INTERNED 

Staff Sgt. Michael Klapak - Spangler - MISSING

Pvt. Arthur C. Kurtz - Johnstown - MISSING

Pvt. Ernest Miller - Windber - PRISONER

Sgt. Stephen H. La (cut off) - Johnstown - MISSING

Pfc George Marnecheck - Cresson - MISSING

Sgt. Robert Bumbarger - Johnstown - MISSING

Sgt. Charles A. Kelly - Seward - PRISONER

Pvt. James G. Young - Johnstown - PRISONER

Pfc. John H. Whitcomb - 181 David St. - REPORTED SAFE

Pvt. Donald D. Marsh - Nicktown RD - MISSING
Lt. Robert C. Wisor - Johnstown - MISSING
Lt. Paul B. Moyer - Lilly - PRISONER

Lt. Frank Arhar - Lloydell - MISSING
Lt. Charles U. Rapp - Johnstown - MISSING

Pfc. Alan Lee Burkett - Portage - MISSING

Lt. Doandl B. Beers - Blandburg - MISSING

Lt. Walter A. Scalese - Windber - MISSING

Pvt. Joseph Gray Young - Hastings - MISSING

Sgt. Anthony Wilkewicz - Gallitzin - MISSING

Sgt. Andrew Skitha - Hastings - MISSING

Lt. Robert J. O'Donnell - Johnstown - MISSING

Pfc. Edward Ercol - Revloc - MISSING

Lt. Edgar E. Griffith - Ebensburg - MISSING

Sgt. Edward H. Yursky - Johnstown - MISSING

Pvt. Truman C. Stern - Johnstown - MISSING

Pfc. George Miller - Johnstown RD2 - MISSING

Pvt. John James - St. Michael - MISSING
Sgt. John Nigborowicz - Gallitzin - MISSING

Lt. William Hayduk - Johnstown - MISSING

Pvt. Joseph Kosalinsky - 140 Spring St - MISSING BOY SAFE

Tech Sgt. Casimer Plis - Johnstown - MISSING

Sgt. John Nigborowicz - Gallitzin - MISSING IN ACTION

Sgt. Andrew Skitha - Hastings - MISSING IN ACTION

Cpl. John E. Ranochak - Portage - MISSING

Pfc. Michael Slivka - 32, Vintondale - KILLED IN ACTION D-DAY

Johnstown Sailor Dies in Hospital - George Witeof - 23 - DIES IN PHILLY HOSPITAL

Sgt Karl Voljhak - Dunlo - KILLED

Cpl. Walter Sral - Portage RD1 - KILLED
Lt, Robert M. Hull - New Florence - KILLED

Pvt John Rock - Beaverdale - PRISONER

Pfc. John Lucasiewicz - Conemaugh - WOUNDED
Sgt. Joseph Stanizlawczyk - Conemaugh - WOUNDED

Pfc. Robert J. Burns - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Lt. Lucian J. Bifano - Johnstown - KILLED

Lt. George A. Young - Somerset Pike - DECLARED DEAD

Pfc. Earl Latherow - Portage Twp. - KILLED

Pfc. Richard Morgart - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Louis Guizio - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul McCann - Johnstown - KILLED

Staff Sgt. William Davenport - New Paris - WOUNDED
Pfc. Russell K. Constable 24, - 28 Clover Street - LEAVES HOSPITAL

Pvt. Joseph Matten - Franklin Bor. - MISSING

Sgt. George Spitler - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Richard Plummer - Ebensburg - KILLED

Sgt. Andrew Skitka - Hastings - WOUNDED

Pfc. John A. Kristofko - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt John Hovan Jr, -  Bakerton - WOUNDED

Sgt. Robert Hoffer - Central City RD1 - WOUNDED

Pfc. Glenn Mineely - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt. Anthony L DeRosa - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc, Thomas (Timmy) Farkas - Colver - MISSING

Pfc, John Stefko - Spangler - WOUNDED

Pvt. Samuel J. Raneri - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Charles (Duke) Freidman - St, Michael - WOUNDED

Lt, Gervase Eckenrod - Cresson - PRISONER

Sgt. Frank Saly - Portage Twp. - WOUNDED

Pvt. Andrew Markus - Vintondale RD - WOUNDED

Pvt. Edward Bozochovic - Smokeless (Old Robindale) - KILLED

Sgt. Paul F. Chernak Jr. - Johnstown - MISSING

Pvt. John Domanick - Barnesboro - MISSING

Cpl. Joseph R Wisz - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. Matthew R. Pavlik - Johnstown - KILLED

Pvt, George R, Lucas - 513 Sheridan St. - WOUNDED - PURPLE HEART

Pfc, Robert Clinton - Portage - KILLED

Lt, Jesse Burley - Cresson - WOUNDED

Pvt. Ernest Schoening - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Sgt. Dominic A. Scipione - Portage - WOUNDED

Pvt. Albert (Bud) Frick - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Sgt. John Urban - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Pvt. Robert R. Miller - Johnstown - INJURED

Pfc. Alvin C. Miller - Cresson - WOUNDED

Pfc. John Skorupa - Gallitzin - PRISONER

Sgt. Regis Driskel - Loretto RD - KILLED
Pfc. George V. Zugrovich - Central City - WOUNDED

Sgt. Karl Voljhak - Dunlo - KILLED
Lt. Jesse F. Burley - Cresson - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul Repak - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt, Anthony Alesi - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pvt. Robert R, Hoover - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Sgt. Francis J. Sokolowski - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Elmer J. Musselman - Johnstown - KILLED

Pfc. Andrew Katcher - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. John (Bobby) Adams - Portage - WOUNDED
Staff Sgt. Charles B. Holub - Conemaugh - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul Fernwalt - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt, Steve Krisko - Conemaugh - KILLED

Pvt. Peter Mraunae - Franklin - MISSING

Pfc Thomas I. Lilly - Windber - MISSING

Pfc. Clarence Reeser - Windber RD1 - WOUNDED
Cpl. Paul Byrnes - Barnesboro - WOUNDED
Pfc. Alvin (Tippy) Byrnes - Barnesboro - MISSING

Sgt. Leonard L. Howard Jr. - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Pvt. George Barron - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Pfc. LeRoy L. Long - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Sgt. Anthony Kunko Jr. - Portage - MISSING

Sgt Nick Berezonsky - Cairnbrook - WOUNDED

Pfc. Carl Gloor - Bolivar - WOUNDED

Pfc. John Krupa - Johnstown - WOUNDED
Cpl. George Reighard - Johnstown - WOUNDED

Cpl. Charles W, Cunningham - Robinson - DIES OVERSEAS

Staff Sgt. Ellick Franke - 600 Somerset St - MISSING AIRMAN REPORTED KILLED

Awared PURPLE HEART & AIR METAL WITH TWO OAK CLUSTERS

Sgt. Alfred W. Pasquale - Johnstown - KILLED

Staff Sgt. Regis (Eric) Wilburn 25, - Summerhill - DECLARED DEAD - B-24 BOMBER

Two of Three Brothers Wounded - Cairnbrook

Sgt. Andrew Kostechak - WOUNDED FRANCE - PROMOTED ON BATTLEFIELD

Sgt. John Kostechak - FIGHTING IN FRANCE

Sgt. Michael Kostechak - WOUNDED - PURPLE HEART

VOTE $50,000 RELIEF FUND - Franklin Bor. 

Staff Sgt. Edward S. Pozniak - 19, - Woodvale - MISSING SINCE 1944 - DECLARED DEAD

1st Lt. John C. Mastovich - IN LOVING MEMORY - JUNE 20, 1944

James E. Good - IN MEMORIAM

The Johnstown Democrat

Friday Morning. July 28. 1944

4 Servivemen Killed in Action;

7 Are Wounded and 2 Missing

Lt. John McMonegal - Gallitzin - PRISONER

Lt. Robert M. Hull - New Florence - KILLED

Pfc. John Cernak - Johnstown - MISSING

Lt. John C. Mastovich - Franklin Bor. - MISSING (LATER DIED OF WOUNDS)

Pvt. Nicholas O'Yoski - South Fork - WOUNDED

Pvt. John E. Malloy - St. Benedict - WOUNDED

Sgt. Michael Bankovsky - Franklin Bor. - KILLED

Pfc. Bruce C. Riggs 22, - 1118 Franklin St. - KILLED
Pfc. John C. Weaver 23, - Scalp Level - KILLED

Pvt. Roy Gongloff - Nanty Glo - KILLED

Pvt. John H. Makin 24, - Belsano - MISSING

Pfc. John Cernak 35, - 533 Woodvale Ave. - MISSING

Pfc. John Baranish - Patton - WOUNDED

Lt. John E. Mastovich 24, Franklin Bor. - WOUNDED (LATER DIED OF WOUNDS)

Staff Sgt. Robert Whysong 25, Tanneryville - WOUNDED
Pfc. John S. Kleman 22, - Cover Hill - WOUNDED

Cpl. Wayne T. Freidline - Hollsopple RD1 - WOUNDED
Pfc. Calvin Spiker Jr. 19, - Hollsopple - WOUNDED

Pvt. Steve Casper 29, - Hollsopple - WOUNDED
2nd Lt. John P. McMonegal 22, - Gallitzin - PRISONER

August 1944

Lt. Mastovich

2 Others are Killed

First Lt. John C. Mastovich 24, 280 Main St. Franklin Bor. - KILLED

Pfc. John Francis Keating 22, - Roaring Spring (formerly of Nanty Glo) - KILLED

Pvt. Frank Stano - Iselin - KILLED

Pvt. George Doubt - Nanty Glo - WOUNDED

Pfc. Paul J. Gozdik 24, - Central City - WOUNDED
Pvt. Donald E. Buckles 20, - Bolivar - WOUNDED

Lt. Emmett T. Michaels 31, - Portage - WOUNDED
Sgt. William Price - Nanty Glo - WOUNDED
Pvt. Walter D. Hill - Vinco - WOUNDED

Pvt. Paul Hudak 20, - 1289 Maryland Ave - WOUNDED
Pfc. John J. Spontak 22, - Mineral Point RD1 - WOUNDED

Pfc. Nick C. Rebarich 22, - Bolivar - WOUNDED

SMILE OF SATISFACTION

Pfc. Michael J. Rolish - 229 Main St. - Franklin Bor. - Trying on New Socks

Lt. John C. Mastovich 24, - Franklin Bor. - WOUNDED FATALLY

Pfc. Peter Mraunac 24, - Franklin Bor. - KILLED IN FRANCE

Mother Receives Purple Heart 

Mrs. Mary (Drake) Appleman - awarded postmunously to 

Staff Sgt. Malcolm (Pinkie) Appleman - KILLED D-DAY INVASION

Sgt. James J. Potter - Johnstown - PRISONER

Lt. Ernest R. Stull - Johnstown - PRISONER

Sgt. Edward H. Yursky - Johnstown - PRISONER

Lt. Robert J. O'Donnell - Johnstown - PRISONER

Pvt. John C. Gates - Winbder - PRISONER

Pvt. William E. Bozic - Bon Air - PRISONER
Sgt. Michael Sckerak - Portage Twp. - INTERNED

Pfc. Anthony Warchola - Johnstown - PRISONER

Seaman Paul L. Roberts - Tanneryville -MISSING

Lt. Donald McCall - Johnstown - PRISONER

Pvt. Nicholas Samole - Jerome - PRISONER

Sgt. Robert McGough - Johnstown RD4 - INTERNED

Staff Sgt. Robert G. Gordon - PRISONER RETURNED

Pfc. John Bulinsky 21, - Portage Twp. - FOUND SAFE

Sgt. David Hollabaugh - Johnstown - PRISONER
Pfc. George Marnecheck - Portage - PRISONER

Lt. Paul D. Shaffer - Johnstown RD3 - PRISONER

Pfc. John H. Whitcomb 24, - 181 David St - REPORTED SAFE

Pvt. Michael Zummer - Lilly - PRISONER