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101st Ordnance Battalion
2nd Support Command
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9th Ord Bn History (1954-1959)

9th Ord Bn Reunion

101st Ord Bn History (1959-19..)

20th Ord Co

501st Ord Co

529th Ord Co

663rd Ord Co

2041st CSG (Ord)

2043rd CSG (Ord)

4068th CSG (Guard)

Newspaper articles

 
9th Ord Bn REUNION - September 6 - 9, 2007
Reunion Data

The 2007 annual reunion of
9th Ordnance Battalion (Special Weapons Support)
is scheduled for 6 - 9 September 2007 at Allen Park, Michigan.

For further information, please contact
Jack Goodlive
1810 Kenwood Dr.
Orrville, Ohio 44667-2346
Jackgoodlv(at)aol.com
TEL: (330) 682-6348

For more details on the Reunion click here to view the unit's Newsletter (MS Word format)

NOTE: when emailing POC, make sure to replace the (at) with the @ symbol.
 
9th Ordnance Battalion (Special Weapons Support)
1954 - 1959
9th Ord Bn DUI
(Source: Gerald "Jack" Goodlive, 1954-56)
I joined the 9th Ord Bn in Feb 1954 at Fort Bliss, TX and left June 25, 1956 from Siegelsbach.

"Hq.", "A", and "C" companies have been have reunions since 1988. Reunion Number 12 is coming up in May in Lexington, KY.
9TH ORDNANCE BATTALION UNIT HISTORY

Compiled by JAMES T. CONTROVICH
MILITARY AFFAIRS/AEROSPACE HISTORIAN
Eisenhower Hall, Kansas State University Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
LINEAGE AND HONORS

HEADQUARTERS AND MAIN SUPPORT COMPANY
9th MAINTENANCE BATTALION
Constituted 13 February 1952 in the Regular Army as 1ST Very Heavy Artillery Support Group.

Activated 7 April 52 at Sandia Base, New Mexico.

Converted and redesignated 1 April 1953 as 9th Ordnance Battalion (Organic elements constituted 4 March 1953 in the Regular Army; Company A activated 1 April 1953 at Sandia Base, New Mexico; Company B activated 27 March 1953 at Fort Sill, Oklahoma).

(Company B, 9th Ordnance Battalion inactivated 20 December 1958 in Germany).

Inactivated (less Company B), 1 June 1959 in Germany.

Redesignated 1 December 1966 as Headquarters and Main Support Company, 9th Maintenance Battalion, and activated in Okinawa. (Inactivated in 1971 on Okinawa).
Unit History of the 9th Ordnance Battalion

23 November 1959
The 9th Ordnance Battalion was one of the first Special Weapons Battalions activated in the United States Army. This unit history accounts for the notable activities of the 9th Ordnance Battalion from the time of its activation in 1952 at Sandia Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico, until its deactivation in Germany in 1959.

9th Ord Bn wore the
Seventh Army Patch
   1952 APRIL - DECEMBER:
The battalion was originally activated at Sandia Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico, on 7 April 1952, per General Order 23, Headquarters, Field Command, AFSWP, dated 2 April 1952, as the 1st Very Heavy Artillery Support Group. The first Morning Report was submitted on 1 May 1952 by Commanding Officer, Colonel Franklin E. Kemble. Security element authorized but not attached at that time. From activation until 3 November 1952, activities consisted of individual special weapons training.

3 November 1952 - Unit Training began under supervision of tech training group of Field Command AFSWP, Sandia Base.
1953 JANUARY - DECEMBER:
The unit was redesignated the 9th Ordnance Battalion on 7 April 1953, per paragraph 1, General Order 15, Headquarters, Field Command, AFSWP, Dated 26 March 1953, at Sandia Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico. The battalion was organized under TOE 9-45, less the security company TOE 19-77, with Lt Col Edward J. Kloos, Commanding.

19 May, the entire battalion went to Camp Desert Rock, Nevada, and witnessed the first firing of a 280 mm gun with an atomic projectile. On 28 May 1953, the battalion returned to Sandia Base, New Mexico.

11 September, Completed Unit Training with an Operational Readiness Inspection conducted by Field Command Inspector General.

5 October, the battalion moved from Sandia Base, New Mexico, to Fort Bliss, Texas, per Movement Order 1, Headquarters Field Command, AFSWP, Sandia Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico, dated 13 August 1953. The Military Police Security Company was assigned to the battalion upon arrival.

1954 JANUARY - DECEMBER:
The battalion was reorganized under TOE 9-45A per General Order 10, Headquarters, AAA and GM Center, Fort Bliss, Texas, on 10 February 1954. While at Fort Bliss, Texas, the activities of the battalion were limited to maintaining mission proficiency through continuous training. The Battalion departed Fort Bliss, Texas, enroute to Overseas Command, USAREUR, on 15 April 1954, per Movement Order Letter (3.2), file AKBAAC 370.5, Fort Bliss, Texas, dated 10 February 1954.

26 April, the battalion arrived at Pirmasens, Germany, the overseas destination, and was assigned to the 42nd Field Artillery Group. During this period, the battalion assumed support mission of artillery and engineer units within Seventh Army.

12 September, the battalion was relieved from its assignment to the 42nd FA Group and reassigned to the 57th Ordnance Group.

1955 JANUARY - DECEMBER:
23 May, the battalion was reorganized under TOE 9-45R with Major Mayo J. Elliott. Commanding.

6 June, the battalion made a PCS move from Pirmasens, Germany, to Neckarsulm, Germany, and was assigned under the 71st Ordnance Group effective 13 June 1955.

1956 JANUARY - JULY:
1 January 1956, the battalion moved PCS from Neckarsulm, Germany, to Siegelsbach, Germany.

9 - 11 January, the battalion received its annual IG Inspection, Major Billie M. Barbee assumed command of the battalion on 12 January 1956.

Lt. Col. William 0. Ohl assumed command of the battalion on 5 April 1956.

The third organization day of the battalion was celebrated on 6 April 1956, at Siegelsbach, Germany, with a battalion formation for the dedication of the flag pole and the presentation of mechanics and safe driving awards.

7 May, Major General Emerson L. Cummings and Major General Dietrich visited the battalion area.

1956 AUGUST:
6 - 8 August, the battalion was inspected by the Department of the Army Technical Proficiency Inspection Team.

1956 SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER:
1 September, the official morning report location of the battalion was changed from Neckarsulm, Germany, to Siegelsbach, Germany, even though the battalion had physically moved in January 1956.

From 4 - 15 September, the battalion conducted annual qualification in arms firing which included all crew served weapons.

25 - 28 September, the battalion participated in CPX Whipsaw.

11 October, the battalion was visited by Lt General John F. Uncles.

16 October, the battalion was visited by Brigadier General J.K. Wilson.

15 & 16 Nov, the battalion underwent its annual ATT.

1956 DECEMBER:
The entire battalion participated in FTX "War Hawk" 4 thru 11 December. This participation was unique in that there was a maximum of reality and a minimum of simulation during the exercise.

1957 JANUARY:
The battalion underwent a CMI conducted by Seventh Army January 28 thru the 30th of January 1957

1957 FEBRUARY:
25 February, the battalion received a call for immediate aid from the city officials of the town of Wollenburg, Germany, to assist in fighting a flood that threatened to burst a dam at their community and flood the city. The battalion responded with enthusiasm, sending a large number of personnel to the dam site with several thousand sand bags and tarps. By 2300 hours, the flood was under control.

1957 MARCH:
7 March, the new Battalion Recreation building and EES facility was officially open with Col Edward J. Soares, CO, 71st Ordnance Group, and Lt Col William B. Whitney, CO, Heilbronn Station, attending the opening ceremonies.

15 March, the Battalion German/American Advisory Council consisting of the Commanding Officer and his Staff met with the city officials of Bad Wimpfen, Bad Rappenau, Huffenhardt and Sinsheim, Germany. The meeting was held at the Kur Hotel, Bad Rappenau, Germany, and dealt primarily with soldier/civilian relations and participation in the summer sports-program.

19 - 22 March, the battalion and its supported units underwent a TPI conducted by the Department of the Army.

1957 APRIL:
8 - 10 April, the battalion underwent its annual IG Inspection conducted by Headquarters, Seventh US Army.

11 April, the battalion celebrated its fourth anniversary which had been put off until after the IG Inspection. There was a Battalion formation for presentation of medals and awards. The afternoon was devoted to various sports and in the evening the festivities culminated in a dance at the Battalion Club.

25 April, the battalion was visited by the General Oakes Committee appointed by the CG, Seventh Army, for the purpose of making a survey of the units of this type. The committee consisted of Maj Gen Oakes, Brig Gen Wilson, Brig Gen Hayden, Col Blair, Col Shuden, Lt Col Maynard and Maj Walker.

1957 MAY:
5 May, the Siegelsbach Fire Department participated in a joint exercise with the Bad Wimpfen Fire Department. This exercise was conducted at Bad Wimpfen for purpose of studying the operating methods of both Fire Departments and the feasibility of the Siegelsbach equipment operating from German hydrants and booster pumps. After the exercise, the 9th Ordnance personnel were joined by the Burgermeister and his staff who discussed the operation and German/American relations in general.

10 May, the 9th Ordnance Battalion formed two TD units with personnel from the battalion. These units were designated the SWASP 7894 and SWASP 7895 and were organized pursuant to General Order Number 77, Headquarters USAREUR, dated 17 April 1957. Both units were immediately attached the 9th Ordnance Battalion for rations, quarters, and administration until further notice.

15 May, the 9th Ordnance Battalion and the two attached SWASP units were relieved from attachment to the 71st Ordnance Group and attached to the 57th Ordnance Group with both SWASP units remaining attached to the 9th Ordnance Battalion.

17 May, the battalion German/American Advisory Council consisting of the Commanding Officer and his Staff met with the city officials of Bad Wimpfen, Bad Rappenau, Huffenhardt and Siegelsbach, Germany. The meeting dealt primarily with soldier/civilian relations, summer sports program and curtailment of minor incidents between soldier and civilian personnel.

1957 JUNE - JULY:
12 June, the organization was visited by Maj Gen Westphalinger, USAREUR G4. Gen Westthalinger was briefed on the operations of the Battalion by Lt Col William C. Ohl, the Battalion Commander, who then took Gen Westphalinger on a tour of the Technical and Administrative areas of the installation.

1957 AUGUST:
57th Ordnance Group conducted a technical proficiency inspection on 14 thru 16 August with the battalion emerging with a rating of Satisfactory. During period 5 thru 10 August, the battalion participated in CPX " For Count ", this participation being unique in that it was a world wide test of the SW reporting system.

1957 SEPTEMBER:
CMI conducted by Seventh Army on 3 & 4 September from which the battalion emerged with an overall rating of Satisfactory.

11 Sept, the battalion German/American Advisory Council met again with the officials of local towns. This meeting was held at the Guesthaus Adler, Huffenhardt, Germany. The Battalion Commander and his Staff attended this meeting at which the main theme was better soldier/civilian relations and a more active participation in joint sports programs and social activities.

During period 17 thru 22 Sept, the battalion participated in the joint USAREUR and NATO exercise FXT "Counter Punch".

25 Sept, the organization was visited by Maj General Oakes who was briefed by Lt Col Ohl and taken on an extensive tour of the Siegelsbach Ordnance Area.

1957 OCTOBER:
During the month of October, the battalion received a Group TPI, an AFSWP TPI, and a visit by Major General Oakes. Also, the battalion rendered more than usual material and technical support to supported artillery units in an effort to bring them up to desired operational standards prior to their AFSWP TPI.

The battalion received the Group TPI 1 - 3 October. This inspection was more than a normal TPI. All areas directly affecting or remotely related to the technical mission of tho battalion were thoroughly inspected. After some changes in operational procedure, the battalion was given a Satisfactory rating.

During the period 10 October thru 9 November, the battalion and all supported artillery units received their annual APSWP TPI's. All phases of technical operations were observed and all units received Satisfactory ratings. The mechanical section was capable of performing only 50% of the battalion's mission, due to shortage of fully qualified personnel, however, mechanical personnel inspected were rated as outstanding.

Major General Oakes, the Deputy Commanding General Seventh US Army, visited the battalion on 2 October. The General was interested in what results if any, that had been achieved by the Oakes Board report.

1957 NOVEMBER:
29 November, Maj General Gordon B. Rogers, Deputy Commander Seventh Army, accompanied by Brig General James K. Wilson, Jr, head of the Artillery Section, Seventh US Army, visited the 9th Ordnance Battalion. Both Generals were favorably impressed and praised Company "B" for its appearance and quiet efficient manner in which they are carrying out their missions.

1957 DECEMBER:
3 December, Lt Col John Etniz, 77th Engr Battalion, paid a visit to Lt Col Ohl, Battalion Commander, and was taken on a tour inspecting construction of the, 9th Ordnance Battalion.

5 December, Lt Col C. M. Morfit, Jr., S2 Office, HACOM, paid a Staff visit to Lt Col Ohl, Battalion Commander.

9 December, Lt Col L. T. Oselcour Jr., HACOM Engr Div. paid a visit to Lt Col Ohl and inspected new construction in the battalion area.

17 - 19 December, the battalion underwent a CMI inspection by the 57th Ordnance Group and emerged with a rating of Satisfactory.

25 December, a Christmas Party for under-privileged children from the local towns of Siegelsbach, Huffenhardt, Bad Rappenau and Bad Wimpfen was held in the Battalion Mesa Hall with approximately 74 children attending. A turkey dinner in true American Style was served. The party was highlighted in the afternoon by passing out Christmas stockings and gifts to the children. The party was brought to a close with the children being shown a Cartoon Movie in the Battalion Club.

1958 JANUARY:
21 January, SWASP Units 7894 and 7895 were reorganized as Company "C", (Provisional), which continued as a unit of the 9th Ordnance Battalion pursuant to General Order 3, Headquarters, 57th Ordnance Group, dated 21 Jan 1958.

22 January, Lt Col Hewey W. Scharf, Hq VII Corps, paid a visit to Lt Col Ohl, Battalion Commander, for the purpose of liaison for operation "Sabre Hawk".

1958 FEBRUARY:
5 February, Brig General Coburn C. Smith and Col Robert C. McDonald, Hq VIII Corps Arty paid a Staff visit and were briefed by Lt Col Ohl, Battalion Commander, and taken on a tour of the installation. Lt Col Frederick Alworth, PM Section, Hq Seventh US Army, paid a Staff visit to Lt Col Ohl, Battalion Commander.

10 - 20 February, the entire battalion participated in Operation "Sabre Hawk".

11 February, Col N. R. Hoskot and Lt Col W. W. Jordan, Laison Officers for HACOM, paid a visit to the 9th Ordnance Battalion area.

12 February, Lt Col John E. Fritz, 77th Engr Bn, conducted a project inspection of the 9th Ordnance Battalion.

24 February, Col W. M. Tisdale, Hq, USAREUR, paid an informal Staff visit to Lt Col Ohl Battalion Commander.

28 February, Col Eifler, Group Commander, 57th Ordnance Group, paid a visit to Lt Col Ohl and inspected the 9th Ordnance Battalion.

1958 MARCH:
4 - 6 March, the battalion underwent a CMI inspection by 57th Ordnance Group and emerged with a rating of Unsatisfactory.

18 - 20 March, the battalion underwent an IG Inspection by the Seventh United States Army and emerged with a rating of Satisfactory.

25 - 27 March, the battalion underwent a TPI inspection by 57th Ordnance Group and emerged with a rating of Unsatisfactory.

1958 APRIL:
7 April, the battalion celebrated its 6th Anniversary. The Anniversary was high-lighted by Lt Col Ohl, Battalion Commander, reviewing the troops and making awards and presentations to members of the battalion. Good Conduct, Vehicle Driving and Mechanic Safety Awards were presented. Lt Col George H. Rankin, VII Corps Ordnance Officer, was present for the awards and ceremonies. After the formal presentations an Open House Buffet was held in the Battalion Mass Hall, with dependents and local officials being invited. In the afternoon competitive sports events between all units within the battalion were held with Company "C" coming out victorious and winning the Organizational Day Trolly. The day's activities were brought to a close with a dance being held in the Battalion Club.

9 April, Col K. E. Adamson, Heidelberg Post, visited the battalion area. The Battalion German/American Advisory Council consisting of the Commanding Officer and his Staff met with the city officials of Bad Wimpfen, Bad Rappenau, Huffenhardt, Siegelsbach and Sinsheim, Germany. The meeting was held at 1400 hours in the Kur Hotel in Bad Rappenau.

10 April, the battalion participated in an operational readiness test. No major deficiencies were noted.

21 - 23 April, 57th Ordnance Group conducted a Technical Proficiency Inspection on the battalion. There were no major deficiencies noted.

1958 MAY:
5 - 8 May, the Department of the Army, Office of the Inspector General, conducted a Technical Proficiency Inspection on the battalion, Lt General Bruce C. Clarke, Commanding General, Seventh US Army, sent a commendation telegram to Lt Col Ohl for the outstanding performance of the battalion.

8 May, Maj General Sherbourne, USAREUR G3 and Col Eifler, Commanding Officer, 57th Ordnance Group visited the battalion area.

26 - 30 May, the battalion participated in the USAREUR Command Post Exercise "Full Play". The battalion remained at home station for the paper play logistic exercise.

1958 JUNE:
The battalion conducted the yearly qualification of individual weapons throughout the month of June.

1958 JULY:
1 July, Company "C" moved from the Siegelsbach Ordnance Area to their own location at Badenerhof Kaserne, in Heilbronn.

21 July, the battalion participated in an Operational Readiness Test. There were no major deficiencies noted.

1958 AUGUST:
11 August, General Maxwell D, Taylor, Chief of Staff United States Army, and Lt General Eddleman, Commanding General, Seventh US Army, visited the battalion area.

12 - 15 August, the battalion went to the field and ran a Practice ATT. Logistics procedures were extensively tested.

25 - 29 August, 57th Ordnance Group conducted a Practice ATT on the battalion. The unit went to a field location and practiced resupply procedures.

1958 SEPTEMBER:
9 - 12 September, 57th Ordnance Group conducted a Technical Proficiency Inspection on the battalion. There were no major deficiencies noted that would affect the atomic capability of the unit.

24 - 27 September, the battalion conducted a Command Maintenance Inspection on each company. There were no major deficiencies noted, however, several areas required improvement.

1958 OCTOBER:
6 - 10 October, the battalion participated in the Seventh US Army conducted Field Training Exercise, Exercise "First Serve". The unit moved to a field location and under simulated wartime conditions, performed its emergency mission. During the problem, the battalion was visited by Lt General C. D. Eddleman, Commanding General, Seventh US Army, and Col Joseph Petroline, Seventh US Army Ordnance Officer.

13 October, the Craft Shop at the Siegelsbach Ordnance Area was officially opened by the Battalion Commander, Lt Col William C. Ohl. There was a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1600 with Col Ohl presiding. The shop was open from 1600 to 2200 for inspection by all personnel. Coffee and cake were furnished by the battalion mess hall for the occasion.

27 - 30 October, the battalion participated in the USAREUR Field Training Exercise, Exercise "Quick Serve". The battalion again moved to a field position under simulated wartime conditions and performed its emergency mission. During the exercise, the battalion was visited by Maj General Osbourne, USAREUR G2, Maj General Westphalinger USAREUR G3, Lt General C. D. Eddleman, Commanding General, Seventh Army and Col Joseph Petrolino, Seventh Army Ordnance Officer.

1958 NOVEMBER:
11 - 16 November, Company "C" fielded one complete AWASP in a demonstration for DA and USAREUR officials. A field location was established and complete working section set up.

19 - 22 November, 57th Ordnance Group conducted a Technical Proficiency Inspection on the battalion. There were no major deficiencies noted that would effect the atomic capability of the battalion.

1958 DECEMBER:
1 - 4 December, CPX "Roadbound V" - test of NEO MISEV plans for USAREUR.

6 December, Lt Col William A. Stanford, arrived at the battalion.

8 December, Capt John B. Hanby assumed command of Company "C", Vice Capt Noble E.T. Rice

9 - 12 December, CPX "Bounceback" - test of rear area security and damage control (theater wide).

10 - 11 December, members of the 2d EOD conducted team training on the Honest John warhead section.

15 - 20 December, a Command Maintenance Inspection conducted by the 57th Ordnance Group. The Battalion received an overall rating of Satisfactory.

18 December, annual qualification crew served weapons at Grafenwohr.

22 December, graduation of the 9th Ordnance Battalion's Technical Instruction Course. Col Eifler, Commanding Officer, 57th Ordnance Groups was guest speaker.

22 December, the battalion had the annual Christmas Party for the underprivileged children of the surrounding communities. Approximately 70 children were present.

31 December, Lt Col William A. Stanford assumed command of the 9th Ordnance Battalion, vice Lt Col William C. Ohl.

1959 JANUARY - JUNE:
29 January - 10 February, Company "C" moved into field positions and performed its support mission during the VII Corps FTX "Free Play".

16 - 20 February, Seventh US Army Support Command conducted an annual General Inspection on the battalion. There were several outstanding areas noted, however, the battalion received an Overall rating of Unsatisfactory. The battalion will be reinspected within 90 days.

24 - 27 February, 57th Ordnance Group (Ammo), conducted a Technical Proficiency Inspection on the battalion. There were no major deficiencies noted that would affect the atomic capability of this unit.

6 March, Maj General Paul D. Adams, Deputy Commanding General, Seventh US Army, visited the battalion areas

12 March, Lt Col Robert C. Stack, Seventh US Army Ordnance Section, visited the battalion.

16 March, Col Charles W. Eifler, Commanding Officer, 57th Ordnance Group (Ammo), visited the battalion.

17 March, Lt Col Miller, Seventh Army G1 Section, visited battalion and discussed recreation facilities at Siegelsbach with Lt Col Stanford.

18 - 20 March, the battalion participated in the 57th Ordnance Group, conducted CPX "1-59". New logistical AW procedures were tested.

30 March, the Department of the Army Technical Proficiency Inspection began for the battalion. The expected date of completion of the inspection is 3 April 1959.

1959 APRIL:
1-3 April, Department of the Army conducted an Inspector General Technical Proficiency Inspection on the 9th Ordnance Battalion. The unit received an overall rating of satisfactory.

7 - 9 April, the battalion participated in the 57th Ordnance Group CPX "3-59". New AW logistical procedures were fully tested.

8 April, Major General T. L. Sherbourne, the new Deputy Commander Seventh Army, and Colonel C. W. Eifler, 57th Ordnance Group Commander, visited the Siegelsbach Ordnance Area.

12 - 17 April, the battalion went into field positions and participated in the USAREUR FTX "Quick Serve II". Advanced Weapons logistical procedures fully tested during the four day operation. The battalion also underwent the technical phase of the battalion ATT. A rating of satisfactory was rendered.

13 April, Secretary of the Army, Wilbur M. Brucker, visited the field position of AWASP 982. Lt Col Stanford briefed Secretary Brucker on SWS Battalion and AWASP Logistics procedures.

23 - 27 April, the battalion was inspected by the Seventh US Army CMI Team. The battalion received an overall rating of satisfactory. 30 April, Lt Col M. W. Kingdom, Headquarter, Support Command, made a Staff visit to the battalion. The purpose of the Staff visit was to discuss safety problems within the battalion.

1959 MAY:
11 - 12 May. 57th Ordnance Group supervised the conduction of the tactical phase of the 9th Ordnance Battalion ATT. Company "C" did not participate. The battalion minus Company "C" received an overall rating of Excellent.

13 - 14 May, Company "C" underwent the tactical phase of their ATT. The Company received an overall rating of Excellent.

21 May, Col Eifler, Commanding Officer, 57th Ordnance Group, and Lt Col Hamblin, 57th Ordnance Group Special Weapons Officer, visited the battalion area.

1959 JUNE:
1 June, effective this date, the 9th Ordnance Battalion was inactivated per GO 148, Headquarters, USAREUR, dated 29 May 1959. The Seventh Army Security Company (TD 73-3773) was discontinued per GO 148, Headquarters, USAREUR, dated 29 May 1959. The 9th Ordnance Battalion Special Weapons Support Battalion augmentation (TD 73-0009) was discontinued per GO 157, Headquarters, USAREUR, dated 27 May 1959.

1 June, effective this date, the following units were activated and assigned to Seventh Army per GO 142, Headquarters, USAREUR, dated 27 May 1959:
Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 101st Ordnance Battalion
23rd Ordnance Company
525th Ordnance Company.

The deactivation of the 9th Ordnance Battalion and the activation of the 101st Ordnance Battalion on 1 June 1959, complete this unit history.
RICHARD H. HAMPSON 1st Lt, Ord C Unit Historian
(Source: Email from John Wierda, B Co, 9th Ord Bn, 1955-57)
I was assigned to the above company, and took part in the move from Pirmasens to Siegelsbach. I have pictures of the Company area and some of the people assigned to "B" Company. Attached are two of the pictures one of me standing by the 2nd platoon sign. The other of me, being inspect by, I think Lt Burpee, prior to going on guard duty. In the early days, if you were picked to be the sharpest of the bunch during inspection, you got the day off. (I never got the day off).

I was reassigned some time in March 1957. I didn't see my picture in the Co. photo, however I did recognize a lot of the people

Siegelsbach Depot
9th Ord Bn

 

1. Service Club (KB)
2. Guard mount (KB)

3. Company sign (KB)

(Source: Eugene (Gene) F. Piraino, 9th Ord Bn, 1956-57)

Pat Kessler (l), Gene Schriben (c), Piraino (r)
   I arrived in Germany on Jan 14th 1956 aboard the good ship USNS Geiger. We docked in Bremerhaven and boarded a train to Mainz-Gonsenheim. I then was transferred to "A" Company, 9th ORD BN, in Siegelsbach, in the spring of 1956.

I was billeted in a barracks with 26 other enlisted men. Across the street was another barracks that housed 27 officers of various rank. Each officer and an enlisted man became an inspection team. I was teamed with First Lt. Harvey R. Stone III. He was a great guy. We traveled all over southern Germany, inspecting various special weapons artillery groups. We also participated in special maneuvers.

I was stationed with the 9th ORD BN till late February 1957. I was trained to Bremerhaven, where I boarded a troop ship to the States. The ship I was sent home on was the same ship I arrived on, the USNS Geiger. I was sent to Ft Sheridan, IL. for discharge. I was discharged on March 8th 1957.
Attached are some pictures that I took while in Germany:

Pirmasens
9th Ord Bn

 

1. 9th Ord Bn barracks (KB)
2. Mess Hall (KB)
3. Service Club (KB) 		 

4. Former 9th Ord Bn barracks, Aug 2001 (KB)
5. Former barracks of the 9th Ord (left) and 59th FA Bns (right) (KB)
6. Former service club (KB) 		 

7. Work area (KB)
8. Main Gate (KB)
9. Main Gate (KB) 		 
       

Neckarsulm
9th Ord Bn

 

1. Headquarters building, 1955 (KB)
2. Former 9th Ord Bn barracks, 2001 (KB) 		   

Siegelsbach Depot
9th Ord Bn

 

1. Off duty (119 KB)
2. 9th Ord Bn barracks (118 KB)



3. Maneuvering with HJ unit (132 KB)
4. Maneuvers near Schw. Hall, 1956 (94 KB)
5. 280mm unit in Karlsruhe (94 KB)		  

6. Main Gate, 1956 (KB)
7. Main Gate, 2001 (KB)
8. Depot now under new management (KB) 		 

9. "A" Co barracks, left (KB)
10. 9th Ord Bn headquarters, right (KB)
11. Motor pool behind the trees (KB) 		 

12. "A" Company headquartetrs on right (KB)
13. The post in Jan 1956 (KB) 		   
Additional information submitted by Gene Piraino:

Q. The teams that performed (nuclear surety?) inspections - were they part of Hq Co. 9th Ord Bn?
A. As I had said, Co A of the 9th ORD BN was composed of 27 enlisted men and 27 officers and they formed 27 inspection teams. We had a full bird colonel as our company commander, whose name has slipped my mind.

Q. Can you tell me more about the inspection process? Did the team primarily inspect the special weapons storage site, or did it also concern itself with the firing unit's procedures for SW warheads, etc?
A. As a team of 2 we would go to the Artillery Corps and conduct inspections of their handling, cleaning, and storage procedures. We also went on maneuvers as referees to insure the firing procedures were according to specs.

Q. Was each team responsible for inspecting SW sites under a particular command (for example - all 3rd Inf Div sites; or all V Corps Artillery sites)?
A. I can't remember the names of the outfits we inspected but we were pretty much restricted to the southern section of Germany.

Q. Can you remember where some of these sites were located?
A. As I recall.. Lt Stone and myself went to Karlsruhe, Dortmund, Frankfurt, and we had maneuvers in Bitzfeld and Schwab. Hall, Germany. Attached are two pictures.

Q. Do you remember how the 9th Ord Bn was organized? How many companies, dets..
A. The 9th ORD BN in Siegelsbach was comprised of Co A, B, C and - I believe - D. Co A was the inspection teams and Co's B, C, and D were approx 500 MP's that guarded the entire compound.

CORRECTIONS:
A few corrections have come to light regarding Company "A", 9th Ord Bn:

Our Company commander was a Capt. His name was Capt. Boyd.

Also, there were only two companies at Siegelsbach: Co A and Co B. Company B had the 500 MP's.
Gene
DI worn by Co "B" and Co "C", 9th Ord Bn
(Source: Email from Eldon A. "Buddy" Gee , "B" Co, 9th Ord Bn)
I was stationed in Siegelsbach as a 17 year old PFC in July, 1958 for about a year. I was assigned to Company B, 9th Ordnance Battalion as an MP.

Company B was the MP Company that provided security; Company A was the Ordnance Company and HQ Company provided support such as mess hall, personnel and motor pool.  Company C was a sister MP Company stationed with the Battalion HQ in Heilbronn.

I was an MP when I arrived there, but the Company was redesignated 7th US Army Security Company, Infantry and I was given a secondary MOS of Infantry.  The rationale for the change from MP to Infantry was explained that infantry would have more firepower than a MP TDA/TOE.  I was later reassigned  back into my military police MOS and transferred to the 110th MP Platoon, HQ, VII Corps.

It was pretty rough duty when I was there.  Bed check, curfew, alerts, field duty and long lonely scarry nights on guard duty.  We worked three days on stand by (doing details and training), three days on guard duty and three days off.  We came off duty just in time to miss the bus to town and went back on duty before the bus came back from town.  We spent a lot of time in the snack bar. 

I have a few photos of the company area back then, and one of me by the "new" Infantry Company sign.  I also have a photo of my platoon sergeant standing by the old sign and one or two of the company street.  BTW, my Platoon Sgt. was SSG (E-5) Emil V. Ankelmann who is still alive and residing in St. Ann, MO.

A unique remembrance for me is the unit crest which I still have one of:  The MPs wore the Ordnance Battalion Crest with crossed pistols added to the top.

At sometime later the 9th Ordnance Bn was redesignated 101st Ordnance Bn.  My last active duty assignment to Germany was 1980 to 1983 as IG Sergeant Major, 2nd Support Command, Nellingen Barracks, Stuttgart, Germany.  The 101st Ord Bn was under 2nd Support Command and I had the privilege of returning to Heilbronn & Sieglesbach to conduct annual general inspections there.  This was a very nostalgic experience.

Siegelsbach
"B" Co, 9 th Ord Bn

 

1. Battalion street, Siegelsbach Depot (KB)
2. PFC Gee next to sign (KB)
3. PFC Gee (KB) 		 

4. SSgt Ankelmann, Pltn Sgt (KB)
5. SSgt Ankelmann and PFC Gee (KB)
6. Co B soldiers at Gasthaus Gruenbaum (KB) 		 
(Source: Email from Michele Grant, daughter of Thomas M. Lee, B Co, 9th Ord Bn, 1957)
 
SGT Thomas Lee, B Co, 9th Ord Bn, Siegelsbach, Germany, APO 176, returned to the US in 1958 and reenlisted. He retired from the Army in 1971. His MOS was 768.60 (Gen Sup Spec).

Mr. Lee passed away in 1993 and his daughter is looking for anybody who knew him and can tell her about his service in Germany.
101st Ordnance Battalion
1959 - 19..
(Source: JOBBER, Aug 30, 1989)
101st Ordnance Bn DUI

History behind 101st Ordnance

The 101st Ordnance Battalion was activated on August 27, 1942, at Fort McClellan, Alabama. During World War II, the battalion served in the European Theater and acquired campaign streamers from Normandy, North France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and was inactivated in France.

On June 1 1959, it was reactivated at Siegelsbach, Germany, and assigned to the 57th Ordnance Group.

On Dec. 1, the battaIion was reassigned to the 47th Ordnance Group and attached to the 57th Ordnance Brigade and Seventh Army Support Command.

In 1967, the battalion received its distinctive battalion flag and crest, which is symbolized by the projectile and flaming grenade and by the arrangement of the organization's numerical designation "101."

On Nov 30, 1968, the battalion came under the command of 3d Support Brigade (VII COSCOM) (PROV) with operational control remaining with the 57th Ordnance Brigade.

On April 1, 1969, the battalion became fully subordinate to the VII Corps/3d Support Brigade redesignated VII COSCOM.

On Dec. 12, 1972, the battalion was assigned to the Theater Support Command, which on Jan. 2, 1973 was assigned to the United States Army Materiel Management Activity, Europe, and in December 1976, reassigned to the 21st Support Command.

On Oct. 1, 1977, the battalion was assigned to the 2d Support Command (Corps); which was recently redesignated 2d Corps Support Command; and remains so at this time.

During April 1989, the 101st Ordnance Bn. moved to Dolan Barracks, located at Schwabisch Hall, its present location. The battalion, whose motto is "First Only First," has proudly served the United Stales Army for over 47 years.
(Source: Email from Thomas O'Donnell, Scty Pltn, B Co, 101st Ord Bn, 1959-61)
I was privilaged to serve in Siegelsbach for 27 months, between Feb.1959 till May 1961. I left Siegelsbach on my 21st birthday. I was a member B Company 1st Platoon Security.  The pictures posted bring back memories.  Some of the article posted be Lt. Steve Takacs do not jive with my memories of that time. 

As I recall we pulled guard in the towers, granted not all were full. The only time we had to walk was when the fog was so thick that we could not see the ground, in fact some times you could not see the guard rail around the tower when you were standing on cat walk. This only happened a couple of times that I remember. When I arrived the guards were MP's. The group I arrived with were the first infantry to arrive on the post. The MP's were phased out as more infantry replacements arrived. By the end of July 59 most of the MP's had been reassigned to Heilbronn.

I remember a Capt Green who was the Shop Officer, along with a three Warrant Officers: Mr. Stardock, Mr. Carricaho (hope I spelled their names right) and another one who's name I can't recall. 
 
I do remember the convoys and the Chopper rides.  I use to remember the NCO's and Officers we had but have forgotten most of them. My platoon Sgt was named Smith.  Steve was right about us being in the "boonies". I remember the bus rides to Heilbronn, and the towns between.  I suppose things have changed a lot since the early 60's.

I am thinking about taking a trip back to Germany next year, maybe I will be able to visit some of the old haunts if they are still there. I see by some of the pictures posted that Siegelsbach Depot is run by the German Army now.
 
Just wanted to add what little I do know.  I also had the job of showing the movies in the snack bar for a year or so before I left.  Here is a photo of me and a buddy in front of our mascot. Our first sargent had this tattoed on his leg.
1976
(Source: Semi-Annual Historical Report, Hqs, 101st Ordnance Battalion, 26 January 1977)
1. Designation/title of unit: 101st Ordnance Battalion
2. Mission: Provide DS/GS conventional ammunition and special waepons support to VII Corps by:
a. Operating ASPs 1 and 2.
b. Supporting VII Corps units with management of Basic Load ammunition.
c. Operating VII Corps dedicated Pre-Stock Points.
d. Provide maintenance, maintenance calibration support and technical assistance to special ammunition capable units assigned or attached to VII Corps.
e. Operate DSSA WK4GAM.
3. Personnel relations and morale: The Battalion and all subordinate units are enjoying a period of extreme high morale. Drug and racial incidents have been virtually eliminated.
4. Key personnel changes.
a. The following is a list of key personnel in the 101st Ordnance Battalion:
NAME RANK POSITION
Edgar R. Allingham LTC Battalion Commander
Wallace Johnson MAJ Executive Officer
The remainder of Section 4 and Sections 5 - 7 are missing!
8. Plans, programs and organizational changes:
a. On 20 Aug 76, LTC Edgar R. Allingham assumed command of the 101st Ordnance Battalion. On 29 Sept 76, CPT Robert C. Field assumed command of HHC, 101st Ordnance Battalion.
b. The ASP and PSP upgrade program is in progress..
9. Operations and Exercises:
a. The 501st Ordnance Company:
(1) Underwent their ATT 6 thru 10 Sept 76.
(2) Participated in various up-loads at PSP's.
b. The 23rd Ordnance Company: Provided vehicle support to Battalion units for 25,000 miles.
c. The 663rd Ordnance Company:
(1) Underwent their ATT 10 thru 24 Sept 76.
(2) Participated in various up-loads at PSP's.
d. The Battalion participated in VII Corps Exercise Crested Eagle, Reforger 76, PSP up-loads, and underwent the USAMMAE AGT in June.
ORGANIZATION (1986):

UNIT DESIGNATION

DUTY STATION COMMENTS
HHC, 101st Ord Bn Badnerhof Ksn, Heilbronn
20th Ord Co Pioneer Ksn, Regensburg
501st Ord Co McKee Bks, Crailsheim
529th Ord Co Monteith Bks, Fürth
663rd Ord Co Rose Bks, Vilseck
2043rd CSG Heppdiel (Miltenberg)  
2044th CSG Vilseck  
2045th CSG
If you have more information on the history or organization of the 101st Ord Bn, please contact me.
 
(Source: Email from Steve Takacs, 101st Ord Bn)
I served in the 101st Ordnance Bn from Jan 1960 to Feb 1963.

As I recall the unit had originally deployed from White Sand Missile Range in the summer of 1959. I had received orders assigning me to the unit while I was attending the Armed Forces Special Weapons Project at Sandia Base, NM. When the unit deployed it was the 9th Ordnance Bn (SA) with HHC, A Co. (Depot), B Co. (Security) and C Co. (Direct Support).

Shortly after arriving in Germany the 9th was deactivated and the 101st was organized with HHC and the 525th OD Co. (SA Depot) at Siegelsbach and the 23d Ordnance Co. (SA DS) at Badenerhof Kaserne in Heilbronn.

The reorganization of the units created horrendous property book problems as it took over a year and a half to straighten them out. B Co. (Security) had been an overstrengh Infantry Company and was broken up between the 23d and 525. As an example, the bulk of "B" went to the 525th to become the Security Platoon. Some went to the 23d and formed the Security Sections of the two SASPs (981 and 982).

The 9th was "Gyro'd" to Germany under the old "Gyroscope" program as an entire unit. This resulted in a massive problem in 1961 when the bulk of the unit, which was draftees went home when their time was up.

When I arrived in Jan of 1960 I was assigned to the Security Section of the 525th (they had all the ordnance Lts they needed but were short Infantry Officers -- I had transferred from the Inf to OD in Jun 1959. Sieglesbach, in those days, was in the "boonies" and we were pretty much on our own.

In the spring of 1960 LTC Stan Tesko became the Bn Co and CPT (later LTG) Hal Hardin commanded the 525th. LT (Later MG) Chuck Murray commanded the Security Platoon to which I belonged. The most significant activity in 1960 was the alerts and loadout associated with the shooting down of Frances Gary Powers.

In the fall of 1960 it was decided that all depot companies would belong to 57th OD GP of COMZ and the 101st Hq and HHC moved from Siegelsbach to Badenerhof Kaserne in Heilbronn. I was reassigned to the 23d as the Asst. Ops officer.

The 23d did a lot of field duty support US VII Corps and German II Corps US Custodial Detachments. I took command of SASP 982 (2d Platoon) of the 23d in mid 1961 and had that unit during the Berlin Crisis. We were in the field at the time, supporting 4th Armd Div and moved back to Siegelsbach "up loaded" and moved to our GDP position. It was an interesting time. I have many good memories of those times, lots of field duty, TPIs and great troops! I spent 20 years in the Army and eventually commanded a Battalion in Korea but the 101st will always have a place in my heart.

At Sieglesbach we had to "walk" the fence as we could not man the towers. One of our proudest records is that we road convoyed the weapons about 90% of the time and flew in H-34s and H-37s the rest of the time. We never had an accident or incident with the weapons.

On field exercises the Artillery and Engineer Units we supported always had their weapons with them and it made for some interesting incidents -- but nothing serious. 7th Army wanted to control all of the weapons it had assigned but, COMZ, headquartered in France, wanted all weapons controlled by the 59th Ord Gp. USAREUR solved this dilemma in 1961 by assigning the DS companies (23d, 545, and 28th) to 7th Army and the depot companies (525 and 619) went to 59th Gp. This created a big problem as COMZ felt that they should establish SW policy for USAREUR and this resulted in lots of conflicts between the units.

In the field the SASPs worked for VII Corps Fire Support Coordination Center, which caused the 101st and 47th Gp chain of command a lot of problems. We SASP commanders were an independent lot and loved being in the field working for Corps. VII Corps wanted us to wear their patch, as opposed to the 7th Army patch, but 7th Army "nixed" the idea. All of the Officer and NCO leaders, in the security units and the 23d wore the Green Combat Leader ribbons on our uniforms

At the time I am speaking about the 101st did not have a unit crest and that was a bummer for all of us as we had no real unit identity. There were a lot of ideas floating around one of which I still have, it hangs in my garage. So, I was delighted years later when I was in Korea and an NCO was assigned to the BN who had just arrived from the 101st and he gave me one of the "new" crests. Also, a lot of the "old timers" from the 9th still had their crests and wore them from time to time.

Each SASP was assigned a division to support as well as part of VII Corps and the Custodial Units with German II Corps. I supported 24th Division, 11th ACR, 2 ACR and 1/2 half of Corps Artillery and Engineers. My associated with the two Cav units extened over 30 years.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

I served as a security section leader in the 525th Ord Co.  I had just completed the Armed Forces Special Weapons School at Sandia Base, NM. The security platoon needed officers and I had been an infantry officer before transfering to the ORDC. The platoon was commanded by Lt. Chuck Murray (retired as a Ordnance MG) and our Platoon Sgt was SFC Leo B. Smith (who retired as an SGM). My section Sgt was SSG Bill Skinner who retired as a Major. 

The 525th was commanded Cpt. Hal Harden (LTG USA Ret), the XO was Cpt. Graffis  and the First Sargeant was Joe Carbonne. 

When I arrived, the 101st Hq was at Siegelsbach along with the 525th Ord. Co (Depot).  The 23d Ord Co. (SAS DS) was at Badenerhof Kaserne in Heilbronn.  At the time I arrived the Bn was commanded by Maj. Ledley Ogden.  LTC Stand Tesko took over the battalion and when special weapons support was reorganized the 525th was transferred to COMZ and the 101st moved to Badenerhof. 

I left the 525th and got my first ordnance assignment as the ass't storage officer of SASP 982, which I later commanded.  Some of the other personnel were CWO's Hal Baliff and Guy Jean; Lts. Dick Dixon, Jack Schmidt and Stan Murphy.  Jack retired as a COL. and Stan served two tours in RVN as a helo pilot in the 1st Cav and left the Army and retired as a Capt with United Airlines. 

What amazed me about that time was the amount of road convoys we ran. Remember, at that time there were only two autobahns in Germany.  So, most of our convoys were on the regular german roads.  One time I commanded a convoy of two weapons on our way back to a COMZ and became part of the Fashing Parade in Speyer. 

Helicopter missions were always a thrill especially in the winter.  We would leave Siegelsbach headed for COMZ and it would be fogged in most of the time.   So we would grope our way through the fog.  Once at the 529th (Trans Co),  one of the helo crews got a mattress cover and a can of red paint.  The red mattress cover was then flown over the high tension lines that were in the approach lane to the 529th heloport. 

I met some great people in the 101st, some of whom ended up in the 5th Infantry Div, where I went after Germany and in Korea where I commanded the 83d Ordnance Bn.  All of those Officers, NCOs, and EM were the best.  They taught me "The School of the Soldier."

I was in Siegelsbach in 1998 and saw that the most of the buildings were being torn down.  I was told that the storage area was also gone and replaced with modern facilities.  It was sad to see. 

One, last story. This past October at our community October Fest a couple sat down at our table.  As we introduced ourselves, I found that the wife was German and further discussion revealed that she grew up in Bad Wimpfen.  When I told her that I was at Siegelsbach, she said are you one of those GIs who use to toss candy and chewing gum to us kids?  We did do that and nice to hear that it was remembered.
Some additional things I remember:    
CPT Jim Jordan was the Bn S-2.  I later served with Jim in the 5th Inf Div.(M) at Ft. Carson.    
CPT Horiation Buck was the assistant shop officer of the 525 and later became the 101st Bn SWO.    
SGT Mike Cody was one of the NCOs in the Shop and later, I believe, got a commission and retired from the Army as a COL.    
CWO3 Falko (not sure about the spelling was the S-1)    
CPT Parker was the S-4    
MAJ. Tounge was the XO    
SFC Polka was the 525 Tech Supply Sgt under CWO4 Baliff.    
SSG Falshing was the 525 Supply Sgt.    
SSG Von Rosenberg was in charge of the Fire Dept which was manned by German Civilians.  The fire station was right next to the guard house/radio shack and in 1960 they bought a TV and we got to watch the 1960 Rome Olympics.
My original section sgt. was SSG Killian who was replaced by SSG Skinner. (SSG Skinner was one of the most professional NCOs I ever served with and I lost track of him after I left Germany.  In 2001 I was in Budapest, Hungary teaching and ran into the a former SGT MAJ of the Army who had served in Skinner's squad in the 101st Airborne.  The SGM told me that Skinner had gone on to OCS and retired as a Major.
SSG Murphy was the 3d Security Section NCO under LT Jack Schmidt.  One of their Sgt. was Sgt Barney who was also in the 5th Inf Div(M) at Carson.
20th Ordnance Company
19.. - 19..
(Source: Email from David Watts, 20th Ord Co, 1984-86)

I was with the 20th Ordnance Company 1984-1986. Below I tried to give you a bit of the history. 

The only PSP that we ran when I was with the 20th was up in Wurzburg, PSP-7 (after reading the Jobber article from 1987, PSP-7 might have been “the main PSP”. I really cannot remember ever going anywhere other than Wurzberg (PSP-7), but I guess that does not mean the other two were not our responsibility. It’s possible that the other two that Capt. Gohlke mentioned were added after I left).

I joined the 20th in September of 1984, at the time we were stationed at Hohenfels Training Area.  In September of 1985 we swapped locations with B-Battery 3/60 Air Defense Artillery.  They were responsible for a Hawk Missile Point at Hohenfels, so the powers in charge thought it was best that they be located there, and we were lucky enough to get to swap Hohenfels for Regensburg. (Broke our Hearts… Not Really J ) 

Looking at the pictures located on the Regensburg Page back some memories.  I can’t believe how the Motor Pool office looks in Photo #12A.  The row of buildings to the left of the office were never used by us when I was there, but if you made a right walking towards the office there was another row of buildings where we eventually parked our larger equipment. 

Something not in the pictures that was very seldom used was a single building, located off the road between the Motor Pool office and the actual motor pool was a racket ball court.  The temps were kind of cool in the winter, but never the less a nice recreation activity.

Picture #7, the bowling alley, was our gymnasium.  It consisted of basketball courts with a weight lifting area in a raised loft on the east end.  When we first moved in, September of 1985, the Diamond Club was closed.  I can’t remember how long it was; maybe a couple of months and our unit were able to get it opened up.  A couple of friends and I asked, and we allowed, to bring our stereo equipment down to play records at the club.  It helped with attendance at the club.

The POL point still existed while we were there, but of course the only fuel was JP-4 (diesel).   And those markings on the Motor Pool door look awful familiar.

As for building numbers, I can only identify one for sure.  A copy of my personal “property” package and pickup orders states I resided in Building 1. I’m not sure of other building numbers, but I did crop out part of Photo #15 to create a small labeled layout of the buildings as we used them.

Photo #19 is of the Mess Hall, and #20 is looking west at the POL point and a corner of the service club on the right.  The picture of the main gate, #17, was taken after the US bombed Libya in April 1986.  We had just placed our Crane and a M10A forklift to protect from anyone ramming the gate (Photo #21).
(Source: JOBBER, Jul 10, 1985)