From: Ben517
Sent: Sunday, June 26, 2005 4:13 AM
Subject: MAIL CALL NO. 926 517TH PRCT-JUNE 26, 2005
Hello,
 
I just received the notice of the passing of Orville Downey, Hq 1. I was fortunate to meet him at the Palm Springs reunion this past April.
 
Be sure to read Frank Dallas's citation and the link that is with it sent in by his grand daughter.
 
Mail Call No, 925 did not have the complete link for Paula Deen. Here is the correct address . Food Network: Paula Deen
 
Ben
2005 Biennial Reunion
August 15-19, 2005
Savannah, GA

Registration due before July 10, 2005!

website                                  www.517prct.org
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Roster                                     www.517prct.org/roster.pdf
From the website:

Friendlies - Links to other related sites

Dear Ben, My husband O.E. Downey, 517th, HDQTRS 1st, passed away last Thursday June 23, 2005, He had cancer and Kidney damage. He went peacefully. He loved the service so much, we had just gone to the Palm Springs mini reunion that we never missed it. My husband will be buried at Riverside National VA cemetery on Thursday at 10:45 am. If there is anyone out there that knows him. He very much enjoyed your communications. He always liked keeping up on everyone, when he could. Thank you for all the good work, your very special to everyone.
Sincerely Judy Downey
714-537-5166
10361 Garden Grove Blvd #33
Garden Grove, Ca 92843
Frank Dallas
 
Dear Ben,
 
I am writing in regards to Gene-Loup Gassend's request for information concerning St. Cezaire. I am forwarding my Silver Star citation for my actions at Mt. Cezaire and a news release published by the Army's Public Affairs Department. I hope this information helps further his research.
 
Sincerely,
 
Frank Dallas
 
Silver Star Citation
 
The President of the United States of America, authorized by an Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, has awarded the Silver Star to Frank J. Dallas (then Staff Sergeant, Army of the United States) For Gallantry in Action:
 
On 27 August 1944, while moving toward a German defensive position, while serving in Company I, 3rd Battalion 517th Parachute Infantry Regiment in the town of St. Cezaire. Company I's 2d Platoon became pinned down under heavy machine gun and mortar fire. Staff Sergeant Dallas a Squad Leader in 2d Platoon suddenly dashed across an opening that was under heavy small arms fire and mortar attack. He successfully crossed the opening and reached the base of the cliff. He then climbed the 35 foot cliff and found himself behind the German positions and line of fire. Using his rifle he quickly killed 5 enemy soldiers before they could determine from where they were taking fire. He continued across the German line of fire and killed 6 more enemy soldiers with his rifle and knocked out the machine gun and mortar replacements with hand grenades. His actions cleared the way for the remainder of the company to join him on the top of the cliff and complete their attack. Staff Sergeant Dallas' voluntary act and selfless concern for his fellow soldiers reflect great credit on himself, his unit and the Army of the United States.
 
Link to Army Public Affairs Article

http://www4.army.mil/ocpa/read.php?story_id_key=4056 Be sure to click on this link-Ben

PS  Kate Dallas

Dear Ben,
 
My grandfather, Frank Dallas, wanted me to inform you that I typed the letter that was just sent concerning the information for Gene-Loup Gassend. He is legally blind and has Parkinson's and is unable to type.
 
Sincerely,
 
Kate Dallas
Chet Irey
I'm back from Florida and back online.  My new email address is chester_iery@verizon.net.  Have a good day.

Chet
Jay Sutcliffe
 

Bob, Mr. Barrett,

I saw the additional pictures have been posted.

Thanks it means a lot!

Thanks

Jay