Chase Jr., Frederick Corey

Item

Title
Chase Jr., Frederick Corey
Performer
Frederick Corey Chase Jr.
Interviewer
Lester Heddle
Description
Mr. Chase was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan on February 17, 1922. He graduated from St. Thomas High School in Ann Arbor in 1941. He was drafted into the Army in November 1942, serving in the 409th Infantry, 103rd Division. Mr. Chase was deployed to the European Theater, arriving in Marseille, France. Mr. Chase saw action on many occasions and was ordered to the front line by his commanding officer. As they traveled north from France, they either slept on the ground or in foxholes. Winter time was difficult due to the cold weather. On occasion, they were able to stay in the homes of civilians. Since they could not speak their language, most communications were through hand jesters and smiles. Many of the homes were occupied by women and children only, as the men were off to the war. He was an anti-tank gunner who received the Bronze Star, the Combat Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, Infantry Badge, Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, and the European AFR Mideast Medal. After his service in France, he moved on to Germany and Austria. Mr. Chase was honorably discharged as a PFC, in November 1945. Post service, Mr. Chase worked for 43 years at Michigan Bell, as a Local Testing Technician. He was also President of the local union chapter of the Communication Workers of America for 25 years, and a member of the Ann Arbor Chapter of the VFW. Mr. Chase was married (widowed) and had four children, seven grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.
Date Span
1942-1945
Dates of Service
Subject
Drafted; United States Army; 409th Infantry Regiment, 103rd Division; World War, 1939-1945; Second World War - European Theater; Private First Class
Publisher
Veterans History Project, American Folklife Center, Library of Congress
Collection Location
1/24
https://memory.loc.gov/diglib/vhp/bib/loc.natlib.afc2001001.71522
Spatial Coverage
Second World War - European Theater
Item sets
VHP