Ben, Betty and I want to convey our deepest
sympathy to John Alicki's wife, Georgia and family. I remember what a
impressive soldier he was when he met us at Camp Toccoa.
After his welcoming speech he ordered us to do push
ups and those that didn't know what pushups meant learned
fast.
He will long be remembered by all who knew
him.
Myrle Traver
Carolyne Pelton
http://www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com/index.cfm
Good morning, I
am Carolyne Pelton. My parents are John and Helen
Dockery, who I
believe emailed you earlier this week of Mr. Alicki's
passing.
I thought you all might want to sign the guest
book.
I have enjoyed reading of the 517, as well as hearing about it
from
Mr. Alicki, who was a major force in my life for many
years.
Carolyne Pelton, Alexandria, VA
***********
Gene Brissey
I wrote a letter with the help of a grandson
yesterday. I needed help because I was nearly blind and still am. I have been so
for several weeks and needed help with the computer reading and writing and
discovered today that we did not get the note sent, My effort resulted from
comments from General Dick Seitz, Tom Cross and others concerning the death
of John "Boom Boom" Alicki. I did not know John but wanted to extend my
sympathy to his family. I hope this will suffice. There were two occasions
where he made a great impression me though I did not know who he was. The
first was when a bunch of troops arrived at Camp Toccoa. He was there to get us on our way. He
called my name. I said "here" and a voice from rather far away screamed, When
your name is called you say "here sir and don't forget it". I didn't.
Later at
the jump tower, I jumped and hit the ground at the feet of a Lt. who said "you
did good soldier". I was a paratrooper in the making. I never remember seeing
John again. I learned about him on Mail Call.
Gene Brissey
Add On: I am
still nearly blind. We're working on it. I hope this is readable.
John Buchalski
Upon being notified that my "Uncle John" had passed away on 30 April,
I
was saddened that this courageous American hero is gone from our
mist.
My deepest heartfelt sympathy is extended to his wife Georgia,
daughter
Alicia and other family members. John and I occasionally
talked via the
phone and I sure will miss his advice - I have always looked
up to "JC"
(a nickname I have always used when talking to him.) As a
soldier I
always seeked his input on many issues. In my mind JC was a
man of
compassion and a strong leader - a dedicated American Officer.
It was
through Boom Boom that I heard about the 517th and men like
Seitz,
Boyle, Walsh and Mel Zais. I heard much about the 517th and the
men who
served in the heroic jump in France. I'm sure St. Peter will
give him a
job similar to the one at Camp Toccoa.
God bless you Uncle
John, we will miss you.
Nephew..........JOHN
"FAIR WINDS AND
FOLLOWING SEAS TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU"
Michou Yenokida
Hello to Dick Seitz and all 517 paratroopers,
I spoke to Dad (Chop Chop) today...he rec'd your very kind
thoughts and invitation to the reunion. He said that he appreciates very
much your invitation and thoughts....he said "tell them I love them all."
However, he will not be attending the reunion.....I appreciate very much
your kindness in reaching out to him....he speaks often of you and his fellow
paratroopers...stories which I have heard since I was a young girl. Please
know that he holds you next to his heart.
Take care,
Michou
Dick Seitz
Dear Michou, my best thanks to you for conveying my message and
invitation to your wonderful father. Needless to say, all of the
many, many friends and 517th comrades of Chop Chop are most disappointed he will
not attend the St Louis reunion. However, we do appreciate his message and
statement of love for his 517th comrades. Please thank your dad for his
expression of love to his 517t friends and comrades. Again, to you Michou our
deep appreciation for your efforts. With all good wishes that the summer
fulfills all the hopes you and your fine dad have for it. Airborne all the
way! Dick Seitz
Heather Riley
Hi Guys,
I want to thank you for listing Justin as the
photographer of the Blue Book. They look great . I know you guys and
Steve did a lot of hard work. We regret that we will not be making it to
the reunion. It coincides with our 30th wedding anniversary, and we
are sharing a trip with Joe's sister who has just recently ( 1/2 years) received
a liver transplant. I have not seen her for some time. You will be
in our thoughts and prayers. I know you will have a wonderful
time.
Yours,
Heather Riley