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84th Ordnance Battalion
60th Ordnance Group
Looking for more information from military/civilian personnel assigned to or associated with the U.S. Army in Germany from 1945 to 1989. If you have any stories or thoughts on the subject, please contact me.

84th Ord Bn History (19..-19..)

Semi-Annual History (Jul-Dec 1976)
Hqs, 84th Ord Bn
184th Ord Co
545th Ord Co
168th Ord Det (EODCC)
Miesau Army Depot
6956th LS Ammo & Gd Cen

2nd Ord Det (EOD)

3rd Ord Det (EOD)

20th Ord Det (EOD)

184th Ord Co

501st Ord Co

606th Ord Co

636th Ord Co (EOD)

663rd Ord Co

Related Links



84th Ordnance Battalion
1951 - 19..
(Source: History, HQ 84th Ord Bn, 1980s)
84th Ordnance Bn (Ammo) DUI

The Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 84th Ordnance Battalion was reactivated on 5 June 1951, at the Karlsfeld Ordnance Depot in Karlsfeld, Germany.

On 5 October 1953, the unit moved to Rhein Ordnance Barracks at Kaiserslautern, Germany, under which command they remained until 3 January 1955. At that time, the unit was redesignated as the 84th Ordnance Battalion (Ammo) without a change of station.

The Headquarters (and Headquarters) Detachment became the Headquarters and Headquarters Company on 1 June 1965.

The present 84th Ord Bn was assigned to the 57th Ordnance Group from 30 June 1954 to 18 June 1965. On 18 June 1965, the 57th Ord Gp became the 57th Ord Brigade.

ORGANIZATION (30 June 1956):

UNIT DESIGNATION

DUTY STATION COMMENTS
HHD, 84th Ord Bn Kaiserslautern
2nd Ord Ex Dsp Det Grafenwöhr [1]
3rd Ord Ex Dsp Det Hohenfels
20th Ord Ex Dsp Det Landstuhl
48th Lbr Supv District Kaiserslautern [1]
606th Ord Co Baumholder [1]
7th Army Ammo Sup Pt #3
7th Army Ammo Sup Pt #4  
663rd Ord Co Grafenwöhr [1]
7th Army Ammo Sup Pt #1
7th Army Ammo Sup Pt #1  
2040th Lbr Svc Ord Ammo Co  
2041st Lbr Svc Ord Ammo Co  
[1] STATION LIST, 17 April 1957

On 1 April 1969, the 84th Ord Bn was assigned to the Miesau Army Depot until 21 December 1972 at which time it was assigned to the 60th Ordnance Group, its present immediate higher headquarters.
(Webmaster Note: Studied the 31 March 1973 and Dec 1974 STATION LISTS. I believe the following organization for the 84th Ord Bn during that period is correct:)

UNIT DESIGNATION

DUTY STATION COMMENTS
HHD, 84th Ord Bn (Ammo) Rhein Ord Bks, Kaisersl. TO/E 9-86G
184th Ord Co (Ammo) (DS/GS) Sullivan Bks, Mannheim TO/E 9-17G
501st Ord Co (Ammo) (DS/GS) Gerszewski Bks, Knielingen TO/E 9-17G
636th Ord Co (EOD) PSP59, Clausen TO/E 9-500D
Miesau Ammo Depot Miesau TDA E2-WOCB
6956th Labor Service Center Rhein Ord Bks, Kaisersl.
HHC, 84th Ord Bn relocated to Münchweiler, Germany, on 1 February 1976 with no change in mission.

The present units assigned to the 84th Ord Bn are the following:

UNIT DESIGNATION

DUTY STATION COMMENTS
HHC, 84th Ord Bn Münchweiler
10th Chem Co Kaiserslautern
44th Ord Co Baumholder
Bremerhaven Ammo Det Bremerhaven
2041st CSG Mannheim
2042nd CSG Zweibrücken
4006th CSG (Guard) Haide
4013th CSG (Guard) Viernheim  
4080th CSG (Guard) Karlsruhe  
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION:
1.) The STATION LIST for 16 August 1954 lists the 84th Ord Bn as a Maint & Supply unit. Station is identified as Kaiserslautern.

The 84th Ord Bn is listed on the troop list for 7th Army (as of 30 June 1954) under the 57th Ord Gp (Ammo). But it doesn't look like it has any units attached to it yet.

2.) S&S mentions Maj Harold F. Smith as the CO of the 84th Ord Bn in the Feb 1953 time frame.
If you have more information on the history or organization of the 84th Ord Bn, please contact me.
 
(Source: Email from David J. Irish)
I enlisted from Albany, NY in February of 1958. I was sent to Fort Dix for basic and assigned to 664th Ordnance Co (Ammo). We remained until November when we rotated to Germany. I arrived in Bremerhaven Germany on board the General Buckner in November of 1958 with the 664th Ordnance Co (Ammo).

I was with the 664th Ordnance Co at Baumholder, APO 34, November 1958 to 19 January 1960. I did many TDY trips to various ammo dumps (operated by the 664th).

On 19 January 1960 I was assigned to 663rd Ordnance Co (Ammo), APO 114, but was assigned (attached) to, worked at and lived at Headquarters Detachment, 100th Ordnance Battalion, APO 28, Taylor Barracks in Mannheim/Kaefertal. I was there as a clerk typist. The detachment commander at the 100th was 1st Lt John C. Avery. The 1st Sgt was William C. Doan. I believed then and I believe now these two people were two of the finest people I have yet to meet. We also had two Sergeants first class in the 664th Ord who I idolized and I would have followed these two through hell and back, think they were what Sergeants were all about, (example). Sgt First Class Stokes and Sgt. First Class Boyeau.

I have a company roster with all the 664th`s grunts but no Non Coms or Officers. So I am not sure of the spelling of Sgt. Boyeau`s name.The First of 664 was a big man named Vinson he was a great man also honorable, honest and cherished his men.
David J.Irish
 
1969
(Source: STARS & STRIPES, July 10, 1969)
The 4080th Labor Service Company, Karlsruhe provides guards for the ammo storage site at Friedrichstal. The 4080th is subordinate to the 84th Ord Bn.
Early 1970s
(Source: Undated historical notes from the 84th Ord Bn)

Historical Notes, early 1970s (Webmaster's collection)
(Click on the image to view the PDF file)
1976
(Source: Headquarters, 84th Ordnance Battalion - Historical Summary 1 July 1976 - 31 December 1976)
84th Ordnance Battalion
1 July 1976 - 31 December 1976

1. MISSION:
a. Provide explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) surety capabilities in support of mission stocks.

b. Provide command, administrative, tactical and technical supervision over conventional, special ammunition and guided missile support companies and other attached units.

c. Perform stock control for conventional Class V and missile material.

d. Exercise court-martials jurisdiction, authority under Article 15, UCMJ, and take other military justice related actions as specified by CG, exercising general court-martials jurisdiction over 84th Ordnance Battalion.

e. Perform, supervise, control and direct conventional Class V munitions surveillance, explosive safety and quality control programs.

f. Provide conventional ammunition logistical support.

g. Maintain physical security of ABREST sites, Reserve Ammunition Supply Points (RASP), Prestock Points (PSP), Rear Area Storage Sites (RASS), and Ammunition Supply Points (ASP 4).

h. Perform installation coordinator functions at the Muenchweiler Hospital Complex IAW UR 10-20.

i. Operate the consolidated dining facility at the Muenchweiler Hospital Complex.

j. Establish, administer, coordinate and monitor the Battalion's Safety Program IAW AR 385-10.

k. Receive and disseminate technical and tactical intelligence information and requirements.
 
2. PERSONNEL RELATIONS AND MORALE: See attached inclosures 1, 2, and 3.

3. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS: During the period of 9-20 August 1976, the 812th Ordnance Company (Active Reserve) conducted its annual two week training period in which this unit actively utilized them to assist in ammunition operations. On 1 September 1976, the Headquarters Company established and opened the consolidated dining facility, which supports units assigned to Muenchweiler Post. Previously there was no other US dining facility within the compound. During October 1976, an alert reaction force exercise was conducted utilizing elements of the 184th, 501st, 636th and HHC as security forces for the 636th Ordnance Company (EOD). As of 1 November 1976 the 144th Ordnance Detachment (ASP 4) was assigned to this headquarters. In addition, during November 1976, this Headquarters conducted a test utilizing generator power for four PSP's without commercial power. The power was required for newly installed IDA systems and will be expanded to include twelve additional PSP's. This project requires $190,000.00 worth of petroleum, repair parts and additional equipment. See Inclosures 1, 2 and 3 for specifics.

4. PLANS, PROGRAMS, TRAINING AND ORGANIZATION CHANGES:

a. Relinquished responsibilities of V & VII Corps points.

b. Assumed responsibilities of ASP #4 and all of MAD off-depot sites (Saarland & ABREST). 144th Ordnance Detachment (Prov) assigned to 84th Ordnance Battalion on 1 November 1976.

c. Started rewarehousing/palletization of ABREST sites.

d. Completion of modelling concept at PSP's.

e. Prepositioning of UBL Material Handling Equipment.

f. Started installation of IDA System at all points.
5. OPERATIONS AND EXERCISES:
Participated in the following Upload Exercises on dates indicated:
  PSP 54 7th Sig Bde Actual 29 July 1976  
  PSP 51 2nd Bde, 8th ID Actual 9 Aug 1976  
  RASP 971 79th Eng Actual 10 Aug 1976  
  RASP 952 Div Arty, 8th ID Actual 7 Dec 1976  
  PSP 54 3rd Bde, 8th ID Simulated    

6. HISTORICAL SUMMARY NCO/OFFICER:
MSG R.R. BOUDREAUX
TEL: MWL 2214-642/'703


Jerry L. Brackney
2LT, MI
S-2/3 Officer
184th Ordnance Company
Historical Summary for 1 July 1976 - 31 December 1976

1. Unit Mission: The basic TO&E mission is establishing and operating four (4) ammunition supply points for receipt, issue, shipping, storage and conducting cyclic inventory procedures and surveillance. The 184th Ordnance Company (Ammunition) has the current mission to operate 4J (Muenster), 953 (Limbach), 3J (Freiburg) and 2J (Langen).

2. Personnel Relations and Morale:

a. Key Personnel Changes

(1) Departures - Leonard, Monk, SFC, Motor Sergeant

(2) Arrivals - Brodowski, Jerrold, 2LT, Catus, Richard, SFC, Breuner, Charles, SFC

(3) Changes/Reassignments - None

b. VIP Visits - None

c. Public and Personnel Morale:

(1) Numerous letters of appreciation were given out to unit personnel for outstanding performance and exemplary contribution to the unit's accomplishment of mission and resulting to high satisfactory rating received by the unit during the Annual General Inspection, FY 76.

(2) Fifteen (15) personnel of this unit participated in Adventure Training for three (3) days at Black Forest, Germany.

3. Major Accomplishments: - This unit received a high Satisfactory rating on the Annual General Inspection for FY 76.

4. Plans, Programs, Training and Organizational Changes: - None

5. Operations and Excercises: This unit was tasked to establish and operate ASP Blue in support of Reforger 76. The support was provided under field conditions. 22 Personnel from the unit participated. 41.43 S tons of ammunition were issued from the field location 132 kilometers from Mannheim.
545th Ordnance Company
Historical Summary 1 July 76 to 31 December 76

1. Mission: To establish and operate 2 special ammunition supply points, to provide technical assistance to supported units, to provide for evacuation of unserviceable items to general support and to provide security of classified storage.

2. Personnel Relationship and Morale:

a. Key Personnel Changes

(1) Stephen S. Carey, Cpt, S&I platoon leader, departed 2 Aug 76.

(2) John J. Sensi, Cpt, Operations Officer, departed 9 Dec 76.

(3) Kermit F. Gombert Jr, Cpt, Operations Officer, arrived 15 Oct 76.

(4) Ronnie D. Stuckey, 2Lt, Shop Officer, arrived 1 Oct 76.

(5) Charles E. McKee, 2Lt, Infantry Platoon leader, arrived 2 Dec 76.

(6) Deborah A. Windham, 2Lt, PBO, arrived 21 Sep 76.

(7) Donald R. Leathers, 1LT, S&I Platoon header, arrived 18 Sep 76.

b. VIP Visitors

(1) LTC Pettersen, CDR 15th Ordnance Battalion, 10 Sep 76, to inspect NATO 111.

(2) Col Bailey, Commander, 41st FA Gp, 6 Oct 76, to inspect Munster Kaserne and NATO 111.

(3) BG Kanamine, USAREUR Provost Marshal, 1 Dec 76, to review security procedures at NATO 111.

(4) MG Jones, Commander 21st Spt CMD, 10 Dec 76 to inspect Munster Kaserne and NATO 111, accompaning MG Jones party were, Col Anderson, CDR 60th Ord Gp, LTC Pettersen, CDR, 15th Ord Bn, CSM Plante, CSM, 21st Spt Cmd.

3. Major accomplishments:

(a) ATT by 60th Ord Gp 2-4 November 1976, satisfactory rating was given.

(b) NATO Infrastructure 8 Jul 76, rating: Excellent.

(c) Physical Security Inspection 28 Oct 76.
AERODE-CDR
168th Ordnance Detachment (EODCC)
Semi-Annual Historical Report July - December 1976

The Semi-Annual Historical Report for the last six month period is submitted IAW Message 2018402, your office.

a. 168th Ordnance Detachment (EODCC)

b. The mission of the 168th Ord Det (EODCC) is to exercise command and control of six subordinate EOD Detachments in United States Army which have the basic mission of eliminating hazardous situations by rendering safe and disposal of all munitions which pose an actual or suspected threat to elements of US Army Europe, or other US agencies or interests in Europe.

c. This headquarters & it's six subordinate detachments have not had an AWOL or an Article 15 during this six month time frame.

d. Change of key personnel during the reporting period was CPT Mark H. Pierson assuming corrrand of the 72nd Ordnance Detachment (EOD).

e. This Headquarters and its six subordinate detachments had no VIP visits.

f. See item C.

g. Major accomplishments for this Headquarters & it's six subordinate detachments for the past six months follow:

(1) Responded to 458 EOD incidents, 2761 Man-hours, 27,623 Miles.

(2) 107 Nuclear Standby, 2,040 Man-hours.

(3) 7 High Explosive Standby, 424.5 Man-hours.
AERODM-DAS-PA
Headquarters, Miesau Army Depot
Semi-Annual Historical Report for the Period 1 July thru 31 December 1976

1. Reference letter, your HQ, dated 10 May 1976, subject same as above.

2. The following Semi-Annual Historical Report is submitted for the period 1 July thru 31 December 1976:

a. Designation of Submitting Unit: Miesau Army Depot, APO 09059

b. Mission:

(1) Receive, store, maintain and issue prepositioned war reserve, operational project, basic load, and peacetime conventional class V operating stocks.

(2) Receive, store, protect, maintain, end exchange (or issue) small missiles with conventional warheads.

(3) Maintain, preserve, and inspects ordnance and related mission items.

(4) Renovate ammunition stored in the depot, and in Prestock, Reserve Ammunition Supply Points and ABREST.

(5) Provide technical assistance to personnel who use, transport or dispose of class V items.

(6) Demilitarize hazardous supplies as directed by the Commander, 60th Ordnance Group.

(7) Receive, inspect, classify and process returns of all class V items and salvageable material.

(8) Store, secure, and maintain in a state of readiness, class V and other prestock.

(9) Establish and maintain an Ammmition Surveillance and Quality Assurance Program.

(10) Provide logistic support to US Air Force on receipts and intransit shipments of ammunition (class V).

(11) Prepare and submit required stock status, storage, surveillance, and maintenance reports (e.g. feeder reports required by worldwide ammunition reporting system, ABREST report, Class V activities reports, etc.).

c. Personnel Relations and Morale:

(1) Flu-shots were given free of charges to 130 LN/LS employees by the German Sick Insurance Company, AOK Landstuhl at the Depot Dispensary.

(2) During a blood drive on 2 August 1976 conducted by the German Red Cross a total of 77 LN and LS employees and one military donated blood.

(3) A 16 hour first aid training course was given to 22 LN and LS employees by the German Red Cross Kaiserslautern during the period 13 Dec thru 17 Dec 1976.

(4). On 9 Dec ten (10) employees were honored for 20 years of services with the US Forces.

d. Key Personnel Changes:

(1) On 29 July 1976 Colonel Carlton P. Weidenthal, Commander, Miesau Army Depot, turned over command of the depot to Colonel John E. Adams.

(2) On 29 July 1976 Mr. James A. Gibson, DAC, GS-12, was assigned to Miesau Anny Depot as Safety Officer.

(3) On 4 October 1976 Mr. Barney Chung took over as Civilian Executive Assistant. He came from Kaiserslautern Army Depot. He took over the position of Mr. Lee Stimmell, who was transferred to the 60th Ordnance Group, Zweibruecken.

(4) On 4 October 1976 Mr. Robert E. Boshinsky, DAC, was assigned to Directorate for Management Information Systems. He replaced Major Dorsey, who rotated on 28 July 1976.

(5) Private Association formed to coordinate the DYA effort in Waldmohr with a German Community Center building to house the DYA.

(6) Transfer off-post storage sites to 84th Ord Bn on dates indicated:
Site 64 Lemberg 24 Aug 1976    
  Site 82 Boerrstadt 24 Aug 1976    
  Site 32 Urexweiler-Fischbach 24 Aug 1976    
  Site 65 Ruppertsweiler 24 Aug 1976    
  Site 5 Haustadt 24 Aug 1976    
  Site 9A Differten 8 Sep 1976    
  Site 29A Bueschfeld 8 Sep 1976    
 
(7) 1 Dec 76 - the 60th Ordnance Group was transferred to the 21st Support Command.

i. Operations and Exercises: None

j. Name/Telephone Number of Action Officer:

Mrs. Hannelore Maltzahn, Public Affairs Officer, Tel: MIE (2222-)841.

FOR THE CONMANDER:

Vincent G. Oliver, Jr.
CPT, Ord C
Adjutant

AERODL-O
6956th Labor Service Ammunition & Guard Center
Semi-Annual Historical Report for the Period 1 July thru 31 December 1976

1. DESIGNATION OF SUBMITTING UNIT: 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center, APO 09189.

2. MISSION:

a. 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center commands, administers, supervises , and coordinates operations of subordinate CLG/LS units engaged in ammunition and physical security activities.

b. LS Ordnance Ammunition Units perform receiving, storing, maintenance, rewarehousing and shipping of ordnance conventional and chemical Class V material, and provide administrative services for ammunition prestock points (PSP) and other ammunition storage sites, as directed.

c. CLG/LS Guard Units provide physical guard security for ammunition prestock and storage sites, and other installations or targets, as assigned.

3. PERSONNEL RELATIONS AND MORALE:

a. Promotions of key personnel
  2 Jul 76 KOKEL, Werner 4099th LS-6 LSO-1
  22 Jul 76 SCHUSTER, Hans-Martin 2041st LSO-2 LSO-3
  26 Jul 76 BARTASKA, Jonas 2041st LS-5 LSO-1
  26 Jul 76 GREINER, Rupert 2041st LS-7 LSO-1
  1 Aug 76 PAPENFUSS, Wilhelm 4067th LSO-3 LSO-4
  1 Aug 76 CZERNIK, Jan 6956th LSO-2 LSO-3
  29 Sep 76 SCHMITT, Alexander 4067th LS-6 LSO-1
  19 Oct 76 PROKOPOWICZ, Stanislaw 6956th LSO-3 LSO-4
  19 Oct 76 STURM, Zbigniew 6956th LSO-3 LSO-4
  19 Oct 76 MARCIULONIS, Josef 6956th LSO-2 LSO-4
 
4. KEY PERSONNEL CHANGES: During the reporting period the authorized strength of the 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center increased from 33 to 50. Increase of the Center strength was necessitated by activation of three (3) LS Liaison Sections within three (3) US Army Battalions: the 15th, 84th, and 101st Ordnance Battalions, on 26 July 1976, and through the increase of the Center mission responsibilities. The following changes in key personnel occured in connection with the activation of the above mentioned Liaison Sections:

a. LSO-2 Josef MARCIULONIS, 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center, was promoted to LSO-4 and appointed Labor Service Staff Advisor at the Labor Service Liaison Section with the 101st Ordnance Battalion.

b. LSO-3 Stanislaw PROKOPOWICZ, 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center, was promoted to LSO-4 and appointed Labor Service Staff Advisor at the Labor Service Liaison Section with the 84th Ordnance Battalion.

c. LSO-3 Zbigniew STURM, 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center, was promoted to LSO-4 and appointed Labor Service Staff Advisor at the Labor Service Liaison Section with the 15th Ordnance Battalion.

5. VIP VISITS:
DATE: NAME AND FUNCTION OF VIP UNIT OR LOCATION VISITED
13 Jul 76 MG SWEENEY, CDR, USAMMAE 6956th
3 Aug 76 COL LUNCH, CDR, USAREUR LSA 4013th, PSP 54, RASP 951
5 Aug 76 COL LUNCH, CDR, USAREUR LSA 4099th
6 Aug 76 COL ANDERSON, CDR, 60th ORD GP 6956th
10 Aug 76 COL ANDERSON, CDR, 60th ORD GP
COL SZYWALSKI, CDR, 6956th
815th Ord Co & Site 67
12 Aug 76 LTC E.R. ALLINGHAM, CRD, 101st ORD BN 6956th
26 Aug 76 COL ANDERSON, CDR, 60th ORD GP 2041st, 4013th
31 Aug 76 COL ANDERSON, CDR, 60th ORD GP 4080th
2 Sep 76 COL LUNCH, CDR, USAREUR LSA 7418th
 
6. PUBLIC AND PERSONNEL MORALE:
29 Jul 1976 Representatives of the 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center participated in Change of Command Ceremony at Miesau Army Depot.
30 Jul 1976 Representatives of the 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center participated in Change of Command Ceremony at the 60th Ordnance Group.
20 Aug 1976 Representatives of the 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center participated in Change of Command Ceremony at the 101st Ordnance Battalion.
13-14 Dec 76:
18-24 Dec 76: 		Commander, 6956th Labor Service Ammunition and Guard Center, visited 153 guard posts within 60th Ordnance Group physical security area, and presented personal gifts to guard personnel.
 
7. MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Completion of activation of LS Ammo Detachments at ASP #1, 2, 3, and 4.
 
8. PLANS, PROGRAM AND TRAINING:
a. Plans -- IAW USAREUR Message 291320Z Dec 76, 28 LS Guard spaces have been allocated effective 1 Jan 77 to activate LS Guard Detachment at Wildflecken, 4230th LS Co (Gd). Mission: To provide guard post for ASP #3. Completion of activation is programmed for 15th Feb 1977.

b. Plans -- IAW USAREUR Message 291320Z Dec 76, 119 LS Guard spaces have been allocated effective 1 March 1977 to provide guard force for VII Corps for PSPs currently guarded by combat troops. These spaces will be utilized as follows:

(1) Activation of LS Guard Detachment Schwaebisch Hall, 4075th Civilian Labor Group (Guard), with an authorized strength of 23 men. Mission: To provide guard force for PSP #26. Completion of activation is programmed for 31 May 1977.

(2) Activation of LS Guard Detachment Hepberg, 4067th Civilian Labor Group (Guard), with an authorized strength of 26 men. Mission: To provide guard force for PSP #35. Completion of activation is programmed for 31 May 1977.

(3) Activation of LS Guard Detachment Erlangen, 4067th Civilian Labor Group (Guard), with an authorized strength of 49 men. Mission: To provide guard force for PSP #34 and SAIB, Herzo Base. Completion of activation is programmed for 30 Jun 1977.

(4) Activation of LS Guard Detachment Bamberg with an required strength of 43 men, but currently authorized 21 men only. Mission: To provide partial guard force for PSP #94. Completion of activation is programmed for 30 Jun 1977.

c. Command Inspections have been scheduled to be conducted within all assigned CLG/LS units during the month of January and February 1977.

d. Training. Personnel instated into the above mentioned LS Detachments, programmed to be activated, will receive basic Labor Service initial training at the respective units by personnel from this Center.
 
9. OPERATIONS AND EXERCISES: Besides the normal ammunition operations and physical security activities, the 2040th and 2041st LS Ord Ammo Companies were involved in exercises as indicated:
DATE:
PSP / RASP
DESIGNATION OF
COMBAT UNIT 		TYPE OF
UPLOAD EXERCISE
2040th Labor Service Ordnance Ammunition Company
6 Jul 76
56
3rd AD
Simulated
4, 5, 6 Aug 76
51
8th ID
Actual
11 Aug 76
8
3rd AD
Actual
18 Oct 76
8
3rd AD
Simulated
9, 10 Nov 76
471
42nd FA
Actual
16 Nov 76
952
8th ID
Simulated
1, 2 Dec 76
8
3rd AD
Actual
1, 2 Dec 76
56
3rd AD
Actual
5 Dec 76
952
8th ID
Actual
 
2041st Labor Service Ordnance Ammunition Company
29 Jul 76
54
3/68 Arm
Simulated
31 Jul 76
31
1st AD
Simulated
5 Aug 76
30
6th Bn, 1st Inf
Simulated
9 Aug 76
971
1st Sig Bn
Simulated
1, 2 Sep 76
30
101st Abn Div
Actual
3 Sep 76
971
565th Engr Co
Simulated
4 Sep 76
54
HHC, 3rd Bde
Simulated
5 Oct 76
77
1st Sig Bn
Simulated
16 Nov 76
31
1st AD
Actual
6 Dec 76
54
3/8 Cav
Simulated
 
10. NAME/TELEPHONE NUMBER OF ACTION OFFICER: CPT (LS) Jan CZERNIK, MWL (2214-) 654/719.
(Source: Email from "name withheld" by request of author)
I was a former Ammo Tech Officer in the MATO office of 84th Ord Bn. I arrived in Muenchweiler in Oct. 1976.

I have information on 60th Ord Group / 84th Ord Bn / 6956 LSG/CLG operations in the Rheinland-Palatinate, circa 1976-79, I wish to contribute.

I looked thru the 84th Ord. Bn and 60th Gp. records on the site, and concur with the dates shown for events during and around my time.  I will say that when I arrived in Oct. 1976, we knew that the reorganizations that happened officially later in 1977, such as passing sites to 15th and 101st Ord. Bns. and those Bns. to the Corps, were going to happen, and we were already fully focused on our newly revised areas of responsibility.  Interesting to see the history report by Jerry Brackney – I knew him well – a really nice guy who departed the world too young.

ORGANIZATION (late 1970s):
We had the 84th Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) in Muenchweiler, the 636th and its associated MP Company (I don’t recall a number) in Clausen (on Site 59), and, I think within a year after I arrived in Oct. 1976, acquired a small ordnance company (the 44th ?) at ASP 4, Baumholder.

The 44th in Baumholder was really a platoon / detachment (see account by Barry Gardner re 15th Ord. Bn.), and I had little exposure to them. 

In 1978 we opened a detachment at Bremerhaven to manage basic load stocks for Bde 75 / 2AD (Fwd) in a German depot at Lübberstedt (I managed this planning and was present for initial receipt & storage) and war reserves at Olfen, a new NATO site, if I recall correctly.

We also started ammo storage operations in Belgium at German storage sites in Sugny and later Baronville (despite WWs 1 & 2, jobs were scarce in southeast Belgium, and the Belgians were glad to have the Germans pay to build sites there and pay locals to manage storage operations). I was present for ammo arriving at Beauraing railhead for Sugny in 1978 or ‘79 – American ammo, received by uniformed, Uzi-armed German officers speaking German and French, and French-speaking laborers. That was different….

The 6956th Labor Service Group / later Civilian Labor Group, was located in the other end of our wing in the Muenchweiler Hospital – they had the 2040th, until reassignment as below, the 2041st, and later the 2042 LS Cos. as described below – -- as I recall, 6956th actually reported as we did to 60th Ord. Gp. In Zweibruecken, but were in direct support to the 84th.

HOME STATION:
The 84th Ord Bn was located at the Muenchweiler Hospital Complex some miles to the east of Pirmasens. It was demolished some years ago. I was able to get inside in 2004 with my son and one daughter after the complex was abandoned and vandalized, before demolition. Have lots of photos.

The 84th was originally at Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Vogelweh (Kaiserslautern) for some years but moved to Muenchweiller – I thought that was some time before 1976, a year or more perhaps, but I don’t know definitively.

I also know the locations of all the old storage sites, with exception of 3 of the 4 Saar sites and ASP-4 in Baumholder

LABOR SERVICES UNITS:
The LS / CLG units were not TOE deployable units like the US units – LS / CLG had some form of TDA providing for them to support the RASPs and PSPs, etc. 

As the Ammo Tech Officer, I worked with the 2040th LS Co. in Griesheim (until it was assigned in 1977 to 15th Ord. Bn. supporting V Corps.), the 2041st in Turley Barracks Mannheim, and the 2042d in Zweibruecken (established in 1977 to take over our former 2040th sites – RASP 952, PSPs 50, 51, the Saar sites, etc.). 

I managed the basic load stocks for the 8th DIVARTY (Baumholder area) at RASP 952,  2d Bde (Baumholder) and Div. HQ (Bad Kreuznach) at PSP 51, and 3d Bde (Coleman barracks, Mannheim) at PSP54, as well as other unit basic loads, Reforger / 2+10 basic loads, and (the vast majority by tonnage) war reserve stocks.  

I led some “urgent” training support ammo transport missions on occasion  -- e.g., when training ammo orders were fouled up for whatever reason (I had no regular role in training processes).
 
1980
(Source: Email from Michael Gerhardt, 84th Ord Bn)
I was the S-2 there from 1980-1983. There was also the 636th EOD and the 110th MP Co. They worked the "Mystery Site-59", at Clausen. The site is abandoned, and it is no longer classified, although I still wouldn't go in oscar or november bunkers without wearing level-A.

There was also the 330th Ord Co, that took over after they disbanded the 636th EOD.

The 763rd Met Det was not subordinate to the 84th Ord Bn, but supported chemical operations at Clausen.
 
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
In December 1957, HQ 57th Ord Gp, HQ 84th Ord Bn and the 50th Ord Co were all located at Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Kaiserslautern (STARS & STRIPES, Dec 25, 1957).
606th Ordnance Company (Ammo)
1955
(Source: Email from Gene Koch, 606th Ord Co, 1955-58)
I entered above outfit on or about 12/31/1955 at Smoke Bomb Hill, Ft. Bragg, after basic at Ft. Jackson. About 4/1/56  we embarked the Maurice C. Rose for Hamburg then to Baumholder where we split into two groups. One was to run ASP 4 at Baumholder and the other went to ASP 3 at Wildflecken. CO was a Capt. Witt.

I started at ASP 4 as a checker in the Small Arms Section, then went into the office as a Stock Records Clerk then up to Chief Stock Records Clerk (E5 rank) in May of 1958.

I rotated home in Sept 1958 on the USNS Upshur. 
 
Others in the outfit:
SFC Billie Jay Ikemire
SFC Elder
Sgt Brawley
Sgt McDonald
Pfc Kautzman
Pfc Horst Staiger
Pfc Sal. Bonnano
Pfc Johnson
 
We reported to the 84th Ord Bn in Kaiserslauten.

In roughly April-June we ran the ASP at the Bergen-Belsen NATO tank gunnery range, outside of Celle.
 
Those not associated with either of the ASP's were working on rotation of AT (anti-tank) land mines throughout the American sector along the Rhine etc. The main objective of the combat troops (at that time) was to fight a delaying war until we and NATO etc. could get troops in and reinforce them.  Part of this battle plan was for the combatants and engineers was to lay as many Anti Tank mines as possible to slow down the Russian tanks. Our job was to replace those that had past their expiration date or had been recalled for some reason. They were stashed all over the place and as I was told, usually guarded by former DP's that were cleared and given jobs in "Labor Companies".  These companies were like the unskilled labor on construction jobs, driving trucks for the QM, etc. I know that our guys could "hump" those things, 50 LBS each, as one crew of 4 unloaded 100 tons in one day.
I have done some searching into online maps of Germany and have determined that from April 1956 to July/Aug. 1956 the 606th was in the two southwestern most barracks on what is now called Vermont Ave. The opposing barracks on Mass Ave (across the "parade" field from us) were Labor Service Companies.

In July/Aug. the 606th was moved to two barracks on the east side of what is now Pear St.

ASP #4
Baumholder

 
1. Members of 606th at ASP #4 (KB)
 2. Draftees await processing (KB)
3. SFC Billy Joe Ikemire, NCOIC ASP4 (KB)
4. ASP #4, north of Smith Barracks (KB)
 5. Members of the 606th on vacation in Switzerland (KB)
  

ASP
Bergen-Belsen

 
1. M-103 heavy tanks (KB) 2. ASP main gate (KB) 3. Members of company (KB)
  
1956
(Source: Email from David M. Neville, 606th Ord Co (Ammo), 1956-58)
With Gene Koch, I, too, was in the 606th Ordnance Company (Ammo) at Ft. Bragg, NC and Baumholder, Germany (January 1956-September 1958). Assigned to the Motor Pool initially as a Jeep driver, then as the "part's man," and finally as staff car driver.

In retrospect, it was great duty for a single, 18 year old -- not only traveling around Germany (on and off duty), but also being able to see other parts of Europe. I remember many things about my time in Baumholder (at 18, mainly food, drink and girls): the schnitzel stand downtown, rock hard salami on a roll with a beer in the barrack's Attic Club of the German Labor Service Company, pizza at the Lido Restaurant (served by the lovely Ricky), 60 cents (2 marks/40) bottles of champagne at the French Army Post EM Service Club. (Early in 1956 Germany was still under occupation and Baumholder was either in the French Zone or on the line).

Baumholder had large artillery range areas on which they occasionally held NATO fire power demonstrations. I remember they fired 8-inch shells, and maybe 280 millimeter cannon shells over a corner of the camp. At one of these deomonstrations some of us were "caught in the open," standing at attention, salulting, while 20+ generals passed by in their staff cars.

In the attachment to this email are some pictures from this period. While on vacation in 1998, my wife and I passed through Baumholder. Surprisingly, the 606's barrack and motor pool were still in use, and the camp looked much like it did some 40 years before.

I have been in recent contact with two 1956-58 606th soldiers: Horst Staiger and John Kosior (John and I shared a car in this period).

606th Ord Co (Ammo)
Baumholder

 

1. (KB)

2. (KB)
3. (KB)

4. (KB)
5. (KB)
6. (KB) 		 
636th Ordnance Company (EOD)

Aerial view of former Clausen storage site, early 1990s (Rozalinda Sitler)

Sign close to gate heading towards the exit, mid-1970s (Rick Bublitz)

Motor pool area, Site 59, mid-1970s (Rick Bublitz)
1973
(Source: Email from Vance R. Bublitz, 636th Ord Co, 1973-77)
I arrived in Germany April 10th, 1973. Upon arriving at Rhein-Main AFB, all soldiers (myself included) without pinpoint assignments were sent to Gutlet Kaserne in Frankfurt pending further assignment instructions. I was there one night and then sent on to Worms, FRG, and 1st TASCOM Headquarters for assignment. I spent a week there and finally on a Friday morning I was given instructions for the 636th Ordnance Company (EOD), APO NY 09227. I thought there was a mistake and I told the personnel SFC that I was a Military Policeman (95B) and there must be some kind of mistake. When he stopped laughing he assured me that there was no mistake. A covered deuce and half truck picked about 10 of us up from the barracks where we had been staying for the long journey to our new assignments. Some were dropped off in Mannheim, some in Kaiserslautern and then I was finally taken all the way to Pirmasens. I stayed at the Personnel Center there until another truck picked me up and took me to Site 59, home of the 636th at that time.

Site 59 was located approximately 4 kilometers off the main road that ran through Clausen, Germany (). The site had five quontset hut type structures for barracks for the single soldiers who lived on site, It also had a building for supply with a shower facility in the front of the building, administration building which had the messhall, classified document vault, PX exchange, mail room, orderly room and Commander's office. Another building housed the motor pool bay with the vehicle motor park to the north and south of the building. The unit armory was located on one side of a barracks building. The kennels were at the end of an unpaved dirt street which ran through the middle of the site. The kennels had a building that worked as a temporary vet station and storage area for dog crates, training equipment, and food for the dogs. About a year after I arrived another building was erected that became the unit dayroom and lounge. It had a PX bar stocked with beer (Parkbrau which was the local beer of choice) and snacks. It also had a pool table and jukebox. Medics from the supporting medical unit in Muenchweiler, the 763rd Medical Detachment, also had an office in the supply building.

Another unique building was an old single wide trailer that was the unit "theater". The movies were the old 16mm type with projector. The movies arrived were picked up on the mail run once a week and they were usually movies that were 6-8 months removed from the main theater circuit. The movies were provided by the PX exchange system.

However, anyone assigned to the 636 during the days I was there had to encounter the main guard shack. It was located at the front gate and manned 24 hours a day by MP's. All entry and exit was through the front gate whether by foot or vehicle. The gate was always opened by an armed MP with a second armed MP backing him up. It was a one story blockhouse with an emergency generator within the building but separated from the MP guards by a solid 12 inch thick concrete brick wall. The MP's were responsible for ensuring that the generator was full of fuel and operational each shift they came on duty. The generator was for emergency backup power for the site's security lights and communication. A couple of years after my arrival they knocked a small hole in the wall so that MP's could get to the generator if they ever came under hostile fire from outside the site. There was always a requirement to perform hourly communications with 84th Ord Bn headquarters at Rhein Ordnance Barracks in Kaiserslautern to ensure the site had not been overrun. Failure to conduct or respond to these checks would allegedly result in response from supporting units from Baumholder which was at least 3 hours away.

There was also another site that fell under the command of the 636 and that was Site 67. It was a conventional ammunition storage site with barracks for US soldiers who supported the classified mission at Site 59. Site 67 security was provided by Polish labor force guards. Site 67 was about 2 kilometers through the woods and about 4 by the logging roads in the area to Site 59.

The 636th was an unusual unit in a number of ways but its force structure was most unique. The commanders slot called for an EOD 0-4 with two EOD 0-3's. One was for Support/Maintenance and one was for Operations. The Security Platoon was authorized an MP 02 even though there were 72 authorized MP security slots and 24 non-MP enlisted slots for mechanics, cooks, ammo handlers and EOD personnel. Since the site was designated an "isolated site" there was a minimal stipend for all personnel assigned. EOD personnel managed to retain their "hazardous duty pay" by periodically destroying Code H ammunition at the Baumholder demo ranges. This was usually done on one Saturday during the month except on a few occasions that I recall due to USAREUR requirements for accelerated destruction of some munitions. My knowledge of this is first hand since I worked for one of the EOD Captains for quite awhile as the classified document custodian and orderly room clerk. In those days, if the First Sergeant learned you could type you were definitely captured in the "admin" net. I did manage to work as a Day Squad Leader, Night Watch Dog Squad Leader, and eventually as Platoon Sergeant for a brief period before I left. MP's also provided range security during these trips to Baumholder. A task that a lot of them did not relish since it was on their weekend or day off and was almost as boring as "walking the hill" which was their normal duty at Site 59.

In the spring of 1977 there was a Department of Defense Explosive Safety Board inspection of Site 59. As a result of that inspection it was deemed unsafe to no longer let soldiers be billeted closer than 2000 meters to the items stored at Site 59. The fact that anywhere between 35 and 50 MP's had been living on site less than 50 meters from the two closest bunkers continuously since 1971 seemed to make a big impression on someone at the DOD. Immediate plans were made to move the personnel living on site to a recently refurbished barracks in Pirmasens. Personnel E6 and below who lived off site (myself) had their off post authorization cancelled and were forced to make the move to the barracks in Pirmasens. I resided there until my PCS to CONUS on 28 July 1977.

There was a unique blend of the bitter with the sweet at the 636. MP's hated the job because the job was boring, cold in the winter, hot in the summer, and unrewarding. The MP's yearned for the life of a "White Hat" MP doing law enforcement somewhere in USAREUR. In fact, there was a USAREUR policy that allowed that and it was called the ROTA plan. It allowed physical security MP's to PCS to a law enforcement MP unit in USAREUR after serving 13 months in the physical security unit like the 636. I can count on one hand the number of MP's who exercised that option while I was stationed with the 636. The EOD enlisted hated the place because of the boredom of their job which most of the time was maintenance or caretaker mission. They missed the excitement and prestige of the EOD detachments that were performing real-world tasks across Europe. However, the unit had a strange camaraderie that kept everyone together with very few problems. There were unit picnics where all the wives and kids would come from the housing units in Pirmasens or the off post apartments. There would be a day long party and ex-636er's talk fondly of them today, 30 years later. Definitely, a one of kind unit.

Some of the personnel that I can recall and their assignment within the unit:
  Company Commanders: MAJ Carl Glover (later XO of the 84th Ord Bn)
MAJ Jacinto Ledee-Ramirez (EOD)
CPT (P) C. C. Smith (EOD)
MAJ Charles Yager (EOD)
MAJ Paul Koshetar (EOD)		  
  Operations: CPT Patrick F. Grant (EOD)
CPT Brian Schuchardt (EOD)
CPT Kris Sheikta (sp) (EOD
CPT Paul Harman (EOD) - also served briefly as Security Platoon Leader
LT Harlow Newton		  
  Security Plt Ldr: LT Jack Sparrow (INF)
LT Daniel A. Magee (MP)
LT W. Keith Livingston(MP)		  
  First Sergeant: 1SG Wallace W. Rapp (55B)
SFC Wayne Freebersyser (55D)
1SG Thomas F. Noles (55B)
  
  Security Plt NCO: SFC Alphonso Bolden (also served as Kennel Master)
SFC Jimmy King
SFC Paul Schultz
SSG Gary Gatchell		  
  84th Ordnance Battalion Commanders 1973-1977: LTC Guy Bowen
LTC James Banks
  
The personnel listed above were indeed important to the unit but for all the enlisted personnel, MP, EOD, and otherwise, too many to list here. They ran the unit and made it what it was then and will always be the important part of the story of the 636.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Admin area, Site 59, mid-1970s (Rick Bublitz)
(Click on the image to view building use information)

Admin area, Site 59, mid-1970s (Rick Bublitz)
(Click on the image to view building use information)
It’s not numbered but thought I should bring it up since it was the center of all operations each and every day I was there. On your top photo between number 3 and 11 there is a building. That would be the equivalent of the SSCC in my days but was routinely called the “guard house.”

The Commander of Relief (COR) along with on-duty MPs operated out of that building.

Gate 1 (out of site in both photos) was the focal point of all personnel and vehicles entering and leaving the site. Crew served weapons, communications, lighting controls, fire alarms, and emergency keys were stored in this building with part of the building housing an emergency generator.

One side note. I have no idea why the NCOIC in charge was called the COR instead of the Sergeant of the Guard. I spent 25 years in the Army and that is what most other special weapons called their security force NCOIC.

Sp4 Patrick Rielly & K-9 "Satan," Site 59, Clausen
 
1974 
(Source: Email from Patrick Rielly)

Reilly and "Satan" at the Clausen storage site		   I was trained by the US Army to be a Military Policeman. Upon arrival in Europe I received orders for an Ordnance Disposal Unit (EOD) (636th Ord Co (EOD).

I was not happy as I knew this assignment was for Physical Security not a typical, what we called in those days, "White Hat" Police Duty.

I arrived in early 1974 as a Private and I was not briefed on what was contained at Site 59. The site was completely covered in large trees and very well camouflaged from all angles.

After I was there for a short period of time, the Command asked for K-9 volunteers. To me K-9 was a more desirable job because you only worked at night when the Command had gone home. I took the assignment and shortly afterwards was reclassified as US Army Military Police K-9 Corps.

My K-9 was named "Satan" and he was a trained sentry dog. He was an amazing dog and I really enjoyed working with him.

As a Military Policeman in my position and Site 59 being an isolated assignment would have allowed me to rotate out to another unit in Europe after 1 year on Site 59. However, I decided to stay because I loved working with Satan.
I have never seen online a picture of Site 59 from the time I was there which was 1974-76. The mission there was obviously a Secret.

Some pictures online do show some of the old buildings. If you have some pictures of the Quonset hut type metal buildings on site I can assist identifying those.

The smaller Quonset hut buildings next to the bunkers were barracks. I lived there for 2 years 10 months and 6 days. The largest building was a motor pool and then we also had a command building and mess hall.

Maybe 1 year after I had been there the Army decided to cut all the trees down that were growing on top of the bunkers. This ruined the camouflage. It remained this way until I left then at some point the Army put up guard towers and cut down all the trees.

They also built some type of tower command center for observation and defense. We had no towers only foot patrols through the woods. Numerous young Soldiers like me lived on site in the barracks and we were there for defense of the site.

After about 1977 everyone was moved down to Pirmasens and then Muenchweiler from what I understand. The US DoD advised that it was to dangerous to live within close proximity to the bunkers at Site 59.

I had decided just after my enlistment in the US Army that I would get out after 1 enlistment and go home to college.

In 1976 Satan died of gastric dilatation-volvulus. I was devastated. I patrolled alone for awhile on night shift but the Command came to me and said I had to take another K-9 to remain on nights. I took a scout dog named "Pat".

The job was never the same and the Command called me in and asked if I would take an assignment in EOD. I said yes and they briefed me on the mission of Site 59 and assigned me to bunker checks with the EOD personnel.

I was amazed at what I saw and everyone else knows as the unit doesn't exist any longer.

Site 59 in the old days was an isolated assignment for young soldiers and we received extra pay for being stationed there. I think it was $25 a month.

After the Army moved everyone from living there permanently there was no extra pay. It seems that after they built the large observation/Defense tower and command center that some troops report that they spent 3-4 days there as some type of quick defense unit then returned to Muenchweiler where their permanent barracks and company were located.

I preferred the old days of foot patrol through the woods with my K-9. If they had towers and no trees I don't think I would have lasted long and I definitely would have transferred out at the first opportunity.
1977 
(Source: Email from Gerrit "Dutch" Vander Kamp)
I served at Site 59 (636 Ord. Co.) from Feb. 1977- May. 1978. I was an MP assigned to the BAF Team (Backup Alert Force).

I was reading with great interest the account of life at 636 by Vance Bublitz. In it, Mr. Bublitz states that the DOD did an inspection in the Spring of 77 and decided no troops should be billeted within 2000 meters from any Bunker. As part of the BAF team I can tell you we not only lived on site, but did numerous night training and manuvers inside the exclusion area. Our team was required to live onsite, usually 3-4 days at a time with 2-3 days off (Pirmasens).

While the EOD, Operations, Motor Pool, and Hillwalkers (MP's with or without Sentry Dogs) did their shifts and stayed in Pirmasens, our mission was to be the second team to respond to a site threat. The first team was the SAT, which was a 2-man team sent out to recon. and assess, and if possible-neutralize the situation. If the SAT team was unsuccessful or needed reinforcements, then we (BAF) were sent out.

We were trained in Infantry and S.W.A.T. tactics, and did some training with the French Commandos. We were trained in all small arms, M-16, M-60, M-203, LAWS rocket, C-4, .45 Automatic Pistol. Each of us on the team carried 180 rounds of ammo. I was Pointman and did duty as the Radioman also.

I will never forget my time at the 636, and as Mr. Bublitz alluded to, the comaraderie was great, we had each others "back". 30 plus years after I walked out the Guardshack for the last time, I still see my fellow soldiers faces forever in my mind and in my heart.
 

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