!87th ECB- Another soldier moves on-Tec 5 WW2 army Ellis k Earls
Using his service number, 33157624, I found morning reports for him at this NARA link:https://catalog.archives.gov/search?
However, be advised that: At this time, this series is only digitized from 1940 to the summer of 1944. To obtain later morning reports, you either have to visit NARA St Louis, MO or obtain the services of a private researcher (who can be found on-line). Also, be advised that some of the documents may not be for him, as names and service numbers can be misread or may have been duplicated in error. Using the information from the above link and other sources as listed, here is a rough timeline for at least some of his service that I hope helps.
13 Nov 43: at Camp White, OR; he is assigned to Company C 187th Engineer Combat Battalion (ECB).
His rank is Pfc, with a Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) listed as 814 = Operations NCO24
Feb 44: Same location and unit; he is appointed as a Tec 5 and his MOS is changed to 242 = Toolroom Keeper (242): Performs various duties in connection with the maintenance, issuance, and storage of tools in tool rooms of military repair shops. Issue tools to workers on a memorandum receipt or a daily charge ticket. Maintain stock cards showing stock number, quantity credited, and distribution among shop personnel. Makes up a statement of charges against individuals for items lost or damaged. Arranges tools systematically in bins or rack compartments. Periodically inspects tools and prepares a list of tools needing repairs. Makes minor repairs to tools such as grinding of drill bits, sharpening axes. saws, knives, and replacing hammer handles. Must be familiar with supply room procedure and regulations governing accountability, responsibility, and maintenance of stock record accounts. Must be familiar with the nomenclature of tools and shop procedures.
Source: TM 12-427 WAR DEPARTMENT TECHNICAL MANUAL, MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF ENLISTED PERSONNEL, WAR DEPARTMENT • 12 JULY 1944
April 44: Camp Howze, TX, with same unit and the same MOS.
13 Jun 44: West Virginia Maneuver Area, West Virginia, same unit; he returns from an unknown number of days of furlough (leave); he may have returned home to visit family during his furlough.
22 Oct 44: he departs the New York Port of Embarkation (NYPE) on a ship for England with Co C 187th ECB. He is number 53 on the second page.
Source: https://187th-engineering-combat-battalion.ghost.io/. This link also has additional information on the 187th ECB. The 187th ECB was established on 15 Oct 43 at Camp White, OR. It departed for England on 22 Oct 44, arriving there on 2 Nov 44. He came to France on 29 Dec 44. The battalion was given credit for participation in the Ardennes-Alsace, Rhineland and Central Europe Campaigns. During Aug 45, it was in Bockenem, north-central Germany. The battalion returned to the USA on 23 Feb 46 and was deactivated at Camp Kilmer, NJ on 26 Feb 46.Source: Stanton, Shelby. 2006. “World War Two Order of Battle (US Army).” Revised Edition. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole Books. 654 pp. There was a unit history written shortly after the end of the war. I imagine it might be a challenge to locate a copy: “Story of the 187th Engineer Combat Battalion: Central Europe, Ardennes, Rhineland: An Engineer Memoir” by Melvin L. Epstein; Published during 1945. 113 pp.
Currently, I could use some help locating new information on the 187th ECB. If you have any information or photos, please contribute to the story of these men.
Contact us at the187thengcobn@aol.com
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