Thomas Andrew Ontko, Hawaii

A photo of Corporal Tom Ontko, Hawaii, 1943 "Horse Patrol"

Duties on Oahu, Hawaii included defense, patrol, and training with the 198th Field Artillery Battalion where Tom served as a radioman in a commo unit, transmitting- receiving and relaying messages, both voice and KW (telegraph key).

The commo unit was quartered at a barracks affectionately called 'The Dog House' (separate photos appear on Ancient Faces showing that building).

After duties in Hawaii, the unit was sent to combat duty in Luzon & Leyte in the Philippines, New Guinea, and finally in Okinawa, Japan.

Tom separated as an E-5 and returned to Cleveland, Ohio where he married his sweetheart, Irene Strauch.