February 1944
- charliebunton
- Mar 6
- 3 min read
The community received news that the local paper, the Presque Isle County Advance, had made the difficult decision to begin censoring letters from soldiers stationed overseas. This measure was implemented for national security reasons, highlighting the seriousness of the wartime environment and the need for vigilance. Family members began receiving letters bearing the title "Somewhere in," a poignant reminder of the uncertainty faced by those serving far from home. These letters, often filled with heartfelt sentiments and longing for home, became treasured connections to the brave men and women defending our country.
This month also marked the departure of several local men for military camp, each leaving their families and loved ones with a heavy heart. Among those were Edgar Newhouse, Alfred Plowman, Paul Dubbs, Everett Schlager, Francis Paquette, Philip Kreft, Kenneth Piechan, Anthony Kowalski, John Wood, Philip Muszynski, Raymond Tatro, Eugene Metko, and Francis Derry. Each of these individuals was stepping into a new chapter in their lives, filled with uncertainty and the promise of service. Their commitment to duty was a source of pride for the community, even as it brought a sense of unease.
In the Pacific Theater, Staff Sergeant Bud Schultz achieved a significant milestone by downing his first Jap Zero aircraft at Rabaul. Schultz, who served as both an armorer and gunner, had been stationed in the Pacific for over a year, contributing to the war effort with his skills and bravery. His accomplishment was celebrated not only by his comrades but also by those back home who followed the news of local heroes with great interest and admiration.
On the educational front, Principal John Sibley received an exciting delivery of two mathematics textbooks authored by Dr. Kaj Nielsen, a graduate of the Rogers City Class of 1932. Dr. Nielsen had gone on to become a distinguished Professor of Mathematics at Louisiana State University, and his contributions to education were recognized and appreciated by the local school system. This connection to a successful alumnus served as an inspiration for students and faculty alike, reinforcing the value of education even amidst the tumult of war.
In local business news, A-P Super Service proudly advertised a full stock of tires, a remarkable feat given the ongoing rationing that affected many goods during this time. The availability of tires was a welcome relief for the community, as it meant that residents could maintain their vehicles and continue with their daily lives despite the challenges posed by wartime restrictions.
The varsity basketball team was actively competing this month, engaging in a series of games that showcased their determination and skill. They faced a series of ups and downs, with losses against Petoskey (35-26) and Traverse City (26-22), but also celebrated a decisive win against Onaway (33-14). A closely contested match against Alpena resulted in a narrow victory for the Hurons (22-21), while they faced another setback against Pellston (33-27). The final game of the season took place on February 28, when the Hurons managed to secure a win against Oscoda (21-20). Ultimately, the team concluded the season with a balanced record of 7 wins and 7 losses, reflecting their resilience and competitive spirit throughout the challenges of the season.
As February unfolded, couples of all ages took time to celebrate Valentine's Day, exchanging tokens of affection and love amidst the backdrop of war and uncertainty. These moments of joy and connection were vital for maintaining a sense of normalcy and hope within the community.
Additionally, Rogers City held its village election, where Samuel Jackson was elected village president, defeating Rudolph Dueltgen Jr. with a vote tally of 287 to 228. The election also saw the reelection of Karl Vogelheim, E.J. Hasenburg, and Fred Fisch to the village board, ensuring continuity in local governance during these trying times.
In a move to enhance community services, the local post office announced it would expand its letter carrier service to include both Tank and Pinewood Additions. This expansion was a reflection of the growing needs of the community and the importance of maintaining communication, especially for those with loved ones serving overseas. The efforts of local businesses, educational institutions, and community leaders during this time underscored the strength and resilience of Rogers City as it navigated the complexities of life during wartime.
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