I just returned from a trip to Idaho to visit my mother Mary Lou Connors Lynch (78) and we opened my grandfathers truck. She gave me his service record and I had little time to look at it. I told my parents I would look into any info concerning the 540th . You were the best result after a Google search. I know my grandfather was involved in the landings in North Africa, Sicily, Italy and Anzio. He later commanded a Regiment and went across Europe with Patton. I did see his name in your list of awardees. My grandfather, Col Hugh M. Connors, USA (Ret) died in 1976 but my mother may have additional info.
I’ll try to get though the papers and scan any documents that may be of interest.
My name is Rick Lynch and I live in Woodbridge, VA.
Respectfully, Rick Lynch
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Marion,
Attached are copies of a few documents. I have two files of documents that were most likely from my grandfathers service record. There are documents about missing binoculars, boy scout visit, bronze arrowhead certificates, punishment for AW104 for a 2nd Lt, memo from Lt Col Kasper, promotions, etc.
After Anzio my grandfather took command of the 1270th engineers and went across Europe with Gen Patton, I believe that is why his documents from the 540th end in 1944.
Are you interested in copies? If so I will make pdf copies and send them when I get time.
Another member of the 540th! Received this letter earlier this week. Am also posting the photos his daughter enclosed.
Hi Marion,
I have been perusing your website since I discovered it yesterday and am amazed at the information you have compiled.
Here is a short bio of my father's service:
With the draft being eminent, Clayton D. Gard enlisted in the Army on January 13, 1940 and was sent to Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indiana. He was promoted to Private First Class 6990536, Corporal, Company D, 28th Engineers Training Bn, ERTC. His civilian occupation was a general farm hand and his education was one year of high school. He went through military maneuvers until October 23, 1942 when he was dispatched overseas for active duty in World War II. His military occupational specialty was a construction foreman-059. His army serial number was 6-990-536, Grade: Sgt; Arm or Service: CE; Component: RA; Organization: Co C 2832 Engr Combat Bn. His battles and campaigns in World War II included Algeria-French Morocco; Sicily; Naples-Foggia; Rome-Arno; Rhineland; and Southern France. His decorations and citations included EAME Theater Ribbon with 6 Bronze Stars and one Bronze Arrowhead per WD GO #33/45; American Defense Service Medal; Good Conduct Ribbon per LTR Hz Company C 540th Engineers Regiment 3/Apr/44. He had no days lost under AW 107 and a lapel button was issued. His total length of service; continental service 2 years 9 months 15 days, foreign service 2 years 8 months and 19 days. His grade was a Sergeant at the time of his separation on July 16, 1945 at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. The reason and authority for separation was the Conv of Govt RR 1-1 (Demobilization of forces) and the end of World War II on December 15, 1944.
First of all, I would like to verify that I have found the correct website/information. I have looked through the rosters that are on your site and don't see my father's name listed, though from everything I am reading, am certain that he was in service with these veterans.
My father passed away of November 1, 1998; almost 10 years ago now. He didn't talk a lot about his service in the war as I believe it was hard for him. The only thing I have are his discharge papers and several pictures. I have always wanted to share these pictures and see if anyone recognizes or knows some of the people in them. I believe that most of the pictures are stateside, but would be interested to verify some. Please let me know the best way to share them with you. I am going to attach a copy of his discharge papers and a couple pictures of him. My brother has all of my father's medals.
I look forward to hearing from you and thank you for this wonderful website and any other information you are able to share with me!
Sincerely,
Cynthia Gard-Hammond
Proud daughter of Clayton D. Gard
Veteran of World War II
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I added the documentary here on the 540th Memoirs page. Here's the doc:
Everyone here at VetFriends.com would like to reflect and express our deepest respect and gratitude to the Courage, Bravery and Patriotism of all of our Korean War Veterans, both living and deceased, along with all of our U.S. Veterans & Military. Your sacrifice & service has protected the American people, our freedoms & our great country. We thank & salute you.
The Korean War Cease-fire
On July 27, 1953 after 2 years of peace negotiations, a cease-fire of the Korean War was called at the 38th parallel, the major dividing line in Korea.
At this time a demilitarized zone (DMZ) was established around the 38th parallel. The DMZ runs north of the 38th parallel towards the east, and to the south as it travels west.
Stalemate leading to the Cease-fire (July 1951 - July 1953):
The later years of the war involved little territory change, large-scale bombing of the north and its population, and lengthy peace negotiations, which began on July 10, 1951, at Kaesong. Even during the peace negotiations, combat continued.
On November 29, 1952, U.S. President-elect Dwight D. Eisenhower fulfilled a campaign promise by travelling to Korea to help end the conflict. With the U.N.'s acceptance of India's proposal for a Korean armistice, a cease-fire was established on July 27, 1953.
Results:
It is reported that approximately 480,000 U.S. troops fought in the Korean War, with 36,940 killed, 103,000 wounded, 8,142 MIA, and 3,746 POW. China lost 114,000 troops and North Korea 215,000.
