May 1943
- charliebunton
- Mar 3
- 4 min read
The arrival of spring brought with it the vibrant colors of blooming flowers and the warmth of the sun to the community. This seasonal transformation encouraged residents to embrace the outdoors, engaging in a variety of activities that fostered community spirit and camaraderie. As the days grew longer and the air filled with the sweet scent of blossoms, families and friends found solace in fishing trips along the nearby lakes, leisurely picnics in the parks, and community gatherings that allowed them to connect and share stories. These moments of togetherness helped to alleviate the heavy burden of worry and longing for loved ones who were serving overseas in the military, making the absence of friends and family a little more bearable during these challenging times.
Local hardware stores, including the well-known Rogers City Hardware and Krueger Hardware, were bustling with activity as they stocked their shelves with essential spring supplies. Residents flocked to these stores to purchase everything from gardening tools to paint for sprucing up their homes. The spirit of competition was palpable in the neighborhood, with neighbors vying to create the most beautiful lawns and gardens, showcasing their vibrant flowers and meticulously trimmed hedges. This friendly rivalry not only beautified the community but also fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment among the residents.
In the face of the ongoing war, the demand for materials such as steel and rubber for production efforts became increasingly pressing. In response, the community rallied together, with adults, school children, and local service organizations, including the Boy Scouts and the Rogers City Boys Club, organizing scrap material collection drives. These initiatives aimed to gather recyclable items that could be repurposed for the war effort. The types of materials collected were diverse, encompassing iron, brass, steel, tin, copper, and aluminum, as well as wood, rubber, oil, wastepaper, and rags. By the end of the month, the community's efforts had resulted in an impressive total of nearly 42,000 pounds of scrap paper, 500,000 pounds of metal, and an astounding 420,000 pounds of rubber being gathered, showcasing the town’s commitment to supporting the troops.
Amidst these community efforts, several local young men prepared to leave for Army training camps, including Elmer Wenzel, Robert Ferdelman, and Frank Filipiak. Their departure marked a poignant moment for families and friends, as they bid farewell to their loved ones who were answering the call of duty. In a display of local talent and morale-boosting entertainment, the Rogers City High School band, under the direction of Aldie Long, held a spirited concert in the high school auditorium. The event drew a sizable crowd, providing an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy the uplifting performances, which served as a reminder of the resilience and unity of the townsfolk.
One of the most compelling stories to emerge from the war came from Roy Sorgenfrei, who was home on furlough after a harrowing experience during the Battle of the Coral Sea. He shared his dramatic account with Harry Whiteley, the editor of the Presque Isle County Advance. Sorgenfrei recounted the terrifying moments aboard the USS Lexington, which was struck by Japanese torpedoes that ruptured the main water line, leading to catastrophic flooding and a shutdown of the ship's boilers. With the vessel's speed drastically reduced to a maximum of 24.5 knots (28.2 mph), it became an easy target for enemy aircraft. Tragically, two bombs struck the ship; the first hit the ammunition locker, resulting in the loss of the entire gun crew, while the second bomb struck the funnel, unleashing scalding steam that engulfed the boiler room. The explosion was devastating, propelling Roy 30 feet across the deck, where he crashed against a bulkhead, sustaining severe injuries.
Despite his injuries, Sorgenfrei managed to make his way to the deck, only to be met with the chaos of shrapnel raining down from the Japanese bombers above. In a desperate act of survival, he leaped 35 feet into the water, fracturing both of his legs in the process. Alongside hundreds of other sailors who had also survived the attack, he remained afloat in the ocean without a life belt for hours, enduring the harsh conditions until rescue boats arrived. After a grueling rehabilitation period at Pearl Harbor Base Hospital, he returned home to Rogers City, where he was reunited with friends and family, sharing his incredible story of survival and bravery.
In a heartening development for the community, Ingrid's Beauty Shoppe, operated by the talented Ingrid Hopp, reopened its doors today at a new location on 150 West Michigan Avenue. The spacious salon, designed with an inviting decor palette of rose, ivory, and a soft shade of blue, promises to be a welcoming haven for residents seeking a bit of pampering and relaxation amidst the tumultuous backdrop of wartime life. This reopening not only signifies a return to normalcy but also reflects the resilience and spirit of the community, as they continue to support one another during these trying times.
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