History of Company C, 346th Infantry AEF (1919): A WWI Regiment’s Journey

📌 Explore the history of Company C, 346th Infantry, 87th Division, AEF, detailing their WWI training, deployment to France, and service behind the lines. Includes soldier rosters, notable individuals, and their experiences. A must-read for historians, genealogists, and military enthusiasts.

📜 The History of Company "C" 346th Infantry, AEF (1919)

🔍 A Glimpse Into the Journey of the 346th Infantry

The History of Company "C," 346th Infantry, 87th Division, AEF (American Expeditionary Forces) provides a firsthand account of the experiences, training, and deployment of this regiment during World War I. This document is a vivid and personal retelling of the soldiers’ journey, from their initial training at Camp Pike, Arkansas, to their pre-deployment at Camp Dix, New Jersey, and their subsequent service in France during the war.

This history is particularly valuable for:

✔ Teachers & Students studying the realities of military service in WWI.

✔ Genealogists & Family Historians tracing ancestors who served in the 87th Division.

✔ Historians & Military Enthusiasts researching AEF infantry regiments and their contributions.

While Company C did not see direct combat at the front lines, their service in the S.O.S. (Services of Supply) units was essential to the war effort. Their stories of hardship, discipline, camaraderie, and military life behind the lines offer a raw and engaging perspective of the war.

Emblem of Company C, 346th Infantry, 87th Division, AEF - 1919. GGA Image ID # 133fb60452

History of Company C, 346th Infantry American Expeditionary Forces, 20 January 1919 - Trained at Camp Pike, Arkansas, Pre-Deployment at Camp Dix and Deployment to the Port of Saint Nazaire, France.

This contribution to the Regimental Book, with the story of the travels and the duties imposed upon Company "C" together with a few illustrations of humorous incidents occurring since our departure from home camps, represents the efforts of members of this Company to portray the reader an insight into our experiences as soldiers of the A. E. F. in France.

A Word to the Men of Company

I congratulate you most warmly on the thoroughness and efficiency with which you have performed your every duty. Although we were not called upon to occupy a position in the Firing Line, Y have no doubt but that we would have acquitted ourselves there with honor. 

Furthermore, our work behind the lines has been equally as important as that of any other organization at the Front. Consequently, no one of us has any occasion to hang his head because of having been, through a trick of fate, an S. O. S. Infantryman. Rest assured that we would have had our crack at Fritz had the "Big Show" lasted a little longer.

I wish for each of you, in your future civilian life, the greatest of happiness and prosperity; but be sure that you serve your country equally as well in Peace as you have in War, for I sincerely hope and believe that you will all be quite as good citizens of a peaceful and prosperous America as you have been Soldiers of a powerful and pugnacious America.

JAMES E. BRAMLETT,
Capt. Co. " C " 346th Inf.

Unit History - 346th Infantry, Company C

WAR DECLARED WITH GERMANY. —Were the headlines that awakened America early in April. Events occurred in rapid succession, Pershing's Crusaders arrived overseas, Officer's Training Camp were making and breaking the men that were to train the National Army.

The evening of September 19th, 10,000 civilians, eager to do their hit, reported to Camp Pike, Ark. to take up their new life and learn the great game of soldiering. On October 2nd., Special Order No. 1 Hdqts 346th. Inf. assigned the following officers to Co. "C": Captain Stephen T. Ronan; 1st Lieut. Leighton E. Worthley; 2nd Lieuts. Robert C. Marsh, Robert A. Jordan; 2nd Lieuts. attached Wilfred A. Geisenberger and Thomas F. Faulkner.

After several weeks of hard work, an order was issued which transferred all the men of Co. "C" , to another southern cantonment, with one exception of Walter Ballew, Company cook.

Then the huskies from Camps Dodge and Taylor, fresh from the Minnesota prairies and Illinois coal mines, reported to "C" company to enjoy the mild winter of Arkansas-was it mild? Well ask some of the old originals whose ears froze while walking their post or whose fingers became numb while waiting for that dreaded inspection on Saturday morning by the Major.

"C" company's Château was situated in the bottom of what was once a beautiful Arkansas ravine, where many a "Hill Billy" has chased rabbits and hunted Possum. When it rained, our barracks acted as a sort of a dam to this active little river.

During the long winter, when we were not in quarantine or learning to chase Heinies they had us rutting-down and carrying the scrubby Southern oak for firewood. When we started to crowd around the stove, some sergeant would come up and chase us away to let the heat or out in the room and then stand by the fire and warm himself.

The quarantine didn't stop work, but it stopped most of them from going home to town. We would go through fourteen days cooped up and then be let out for a couple of days or hours when some unfortunate would turn up with that rash and the medico would give fourteen more.

Our greatest bug was the Saturday inspections. "Out of luck" was the rookie who had a spot of dust on his rifle or a pair of socks or a towel under his bed-tick. How we used to scrub and wash the barracks! Matt Kavianski "the bootlegger" drew latrine orderly on account of his six toes. He knew his business and knew that he knew it. 

The Major found some slight fault one morning; Matt dug down in his pocket and said: "Major, I bet you a dollar you can't make it any cleaner". They got him out for rifle inspection one morning when the Major was inspecting. He finished the inspection and came back to Matt and got this remark: "What's the matter Major, take second time rifle".

Men who were with the Company at this time will remember such commands as:

• " Come out on that line, you can't see me "
• " Platoons right about "
• " Laugh and show your ignorance "
• " Don't anticipate them commands "
• " At ease hell, I'll give them at ease "
• " Prepare for inspection, march "

Parade came off several times a week usually at retreat time. Bawling out were passed from the highest, through all grades, to the buck.

After training seven months together, we lost all our men as oversea casuals, and moved as a skeleton division of officers and non-coins to Camp Dix in the ultra-civilized East. 

Some of the four weeks D. B. veterans had lots of fun kidding us, "Just wait till you get that second shot, you won't feel so gay" and "You had better take them stripes off before the M.P. catches you". They soon learned what the stripes were for. We filled up the Division with these same D. Bs.

In the big division maneuvers, they began to think they had run onto a pretty big proposition after all. We took some more steam out of them marching to and from the rifle range. Most of us were used to the rifle from boyhood, so beat them easily.

While at Camp Dix, we lost Captain Ronan, Lieutenant Jordan to the 1st Battalion Intelligence and Lieutenant Geisenberger, now 1st Battalion Adjutant and Lieutenant Faulkner, now Captain Co. "F". We got new officers Captain Bramlett, Lieutenant Ferguson and Lieutenant Bolin.

One morning, after having had our clothes inspected every day for a couple of weeks, we got on the train, which left us at Hoboken. We got on the old Ceramic, the biggest single stacker afloat, and fed on English grub and fell out for the three whistles every once in a while.

In spite of the fact that a good many will claim that they weren't a bit scared, they will never forget the five blasts of the big ship whistle. Such a thing as a table was a small hindrance and a weasel couldn't have wiggled through the crowd in the stairway.

One brought his hard-tack and canteen along. He wouldn't miss his eats anyhow. We landed in Liverpool, got on the train to Winchester and hiked to camp and ate some more English stew and had Tommies telling us "You can’t do this" and "Out of bounds".

This was called a rest camp. After that we went to Southampton. From there we got on the Yale, a little U. S. coast steamer. We were packed-in like sardines, and it was pretty top-heavy, so it rolled almost to the mast and dived under the big waves. But it sure could plow along. It ought to pay to go fishing in the old channel because they ought to be extra fat, the stuff they get to eat. We landed at Le Havre France and had some more rest and then got our first experience riding their famous "Side Door Pullmans" with the familiar sign, Hommes 40, Chevaux 8.

We spent a short vacation in Salignac, getting used to the combination of French houses and barns. One went out and yelled, "Sergeant Slett., bringa de candle private felt something on his face just after lights queek, something grabba me byade neck." It was only a rat.

From there, they hiked us through a steady rain for about 20 kilos right along the tracks with trains and empty cars rolling by. When we finally hit the old side door Frogs again, they sure looked good. We were sure going to the Front that time, but no, the first thing we saw was a big bunch of tin sheds. We had arrived in the Base Section near St. Nazaire.

The rest of the time here, we have been eating goldfish and beans, doing detail, and waiting to go home. Now and then, we had a little fun dodging M.P.s and going to Rose and Pont Chateau, and as Ole says, "I have two M.P.s to knock them out of now". It was here that we cultivated our great love for the Q. M. Corps who have been more than brothers to us.

The armistice was signed, and the 87th Division booked to go home. So far, we are still here.

The Battle of Montoir

It was a damp, drizzly morning some hours before daylight two kilos from Montoir town when the first gun sounded the first call. We were camped in tents, each tent an island surrounded by a mixture of clay and ooze about the consistency of newly made mortar. Each tent containing a stove (?) which stove contained the only great thing in the tent. There being no wood, there was little likelihood of the heat being intense. 

Some of the boys were still suffering from their wounds received in The Battle of Cognac the night before, a very spirited battle, in which their slogan was "Down with Rum", and during which several of our boys were bottled up and were not to return to us till noon guided by M. Ps. Private Freddie Borgstede, who sleeps longest (six foot four) fell out and sleepily inquired, "Say Livergood, has sick call sounded yet?"

At reveille, the first sergeant made the following announcement: "All those wishing to make donations to our comrades in the Army of Occupation will bring their watermelons to the orderly room so they can feed the soldiers on the Rhine".

After reveille, we made a counter-attack in the mess-hall, bringing home the bacon in Swift manner. After breakfast, our forces dispersed, and it was only after much persuasion, many promises, and dire threats that they were again assembled. 

One sergeant and sixty men were detailed to help the engineers; the sergeant was Aiken to go. Sergeant Hughes and a few squads were detailed to the Medical Corps, where a number of cases were to be handled. Handling cases of hypodermic needles, many men in this detail got stuck on the job. Sergeant Aiken led his detail to a tool storehouse of shovels and axes where every man was ordered to take his pick and dig in.

Back in the Company area, sick call had sounded. The sick formed and marched to the infirmary in the following formation: Right Guide Our Freddie, Left Guide John Selbert with Mess Corporal Prince conspicuously prominent by his limp.

The first name called was Mess Corporal Gordon Prince, uncrowned, but wait:
The Doctor: "What's the matter Prince?"
Prince: "I stuck a nail in my foot, Sir."
The Doctor: "Take off your boot."
Prince, complying: "Yes, Sir."
The Doctor: "Take off our sock."
The Clown Prince: "It did not go through my sock, Sir. 
The Doctor: "Castor Oil, Duty."
And Prince still limps, the Doctor does not mind, he has lots of Patience.

Next came a few boys who had been away on pass.
Doctor: " Where have you been boys, I have missed you."
The Boys: "On pass, Sir, the last six days."
The Doctor: "A little Week, Quarters X."
And they needed it.
The Doctor: "Next man. What's the matter what. you?"
Private: "At Co. a B ."
The Doctor: "Try Co. "C", that's where Iodine." 

At noon the details sent runners back for Ration with the report that all was going well. There being no ham on hand, Great Gobs of Goldfish or Deep Sea Turkey were immediately dispatched with a quantity of beans as a change from the regular army food. Salmon is good, but if the scales are left on, they could get AWAY with more of it.

Orders were that no wood was to be brought in by the details on their return to camp. One man loaded down with a barn door passed by a guard who hesitated to order him to drop it fearing he might take offense.

At 5: 30, the detail from the Medical Corps, not at twilight, or moonlight but at flashlight, hungry, tired and dirty, came in. Soon after came in other details and we were again a happy family.

After supper, the officer's orderly brought in the Chicago Tribune containing another rumor that the 87th would embark soon, but we cannot ascertain what the word soon means. Officer's orderlies bear watching; they are the Root of all evil.

All buvettes being closed, the Battle of Cognac has been fought for the last time and as taps sounds, we are ready to bunk.

No casualties for the day. 
 And so it goes day after day.

No more army for mine, 
No more army for mine,
I've been away from home 
For a hell of a time.
Just like a fellow 
Being in jail. 
He falls out every morning 
With the old detail, 
For I haven't seen home 
For the last six months, 
Wading 'round in mud 
And eating goldfish for lunch. 
If I ever get back 
To the U. S. A. 
No more army for mine.

By Ima Crabb.

Introduction and a Word to the Men of Company "C" by Captain James E. Bramlett. GGA Image ID # 133fde2b2b

History of Company "C," First Battalion, 346th Infantry, 87th Division of the American Expeditionary Force (A.E.F.). GGA Image ID # 13407f0d1f

Battle of Montoir, Company C, 346th Infantry, Part 1 of 2. GGA Image ID # 222159bc1a

Battle of Montoir, Company C, 346th Infantry, Part 2 of 2. GGA Image ID # 1340bbe21f

The roster of Officers and Enlisted Men of Company C, 346th Infantry AEF, 20 January 1919. Part 1 of 2. GGA Image ID # 1e6eebb744

Officers and Enlisted men of Company « C » 346th Infantry

American Expeditionary Forces, January 2Oth 1919

CAPTAIN

1. James E. Bramiett, Clarksdale, Mississippi.

LIEUTENANTS

1. Leighton E. Worthley, 336 East Van Buren Ave., McLester, Okla.
2. William L. Ferguson, 1939 General Pershing St., New Orleans La.
3. Robert C. Marsh, Madill, Oklahoma,

FIRST SERGEANT

1. Isaacs, Jesse E., Thompsonville, III.

MESS SERGEANT

1. Etoch, Michael A., 519 Cherry st., Helena Ark.

SUPPLY SERGEANT

1. Heavey, John v., 1344 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester Mass.

SERGEANTS

1. Aiken, Ray, Parrish, II].
2. Benjamin, Arthur J., Hutchinson Minn.
3. Fowler, John L., R. F. D. 7, Muscatine, Ia.
4. Hughes, James G., Ewing, III.
5. Hunt, Leonard, Mc Leansboro, III.
6. Liebi, Peter, Fairfax, Minn.
7. Markall, Horace S., Lake Wilson, Minn.
8. O’Fallon, Patrick H., Hutchinson, Minn.
9. Rusch, Hugo A., Hutchinson. Minn.
10. Upchurch, Lloyd, Benton, III.
11. Wagner, Frank B., Faprfax, Minn.
12. Weller, Frank, 1236 Nordyke Ave., Indianapolis Ind.

CORPORALS

1. Barber, Louis J., Altmat, N. Y.
2. Black, John D., 1315 Ontario Ave., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
3. Briese, Paul J. R., 761 Seneca Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
4. Dahleen, Leroy E., 711 North 3rd St., Montevideo, Minn.
5. Dierks, Renville E., 1511-2-th Ave., Moline, III.
6. Doyle, Edward J., 212 Chesnut St., Springfield, Mass.
7. Fisk, George E., Vermont, III.
8. Flatberg, Ole H., Jasper, Minn.
9. Flatt, Doctor C., Benton, III.
10. Fultz, Claude J., Lawndale, III.
11. Gjenvick, Ludwig K., Route 3, Madison, Minn.
12. Graver, John W., 2438 Myrtle Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
13. Creer, Clarence D., R. F. D. 3, Aledo, III.
14. Hagan, James H., 369 Weir field St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
15. Hicks, Louis W., 131 Baldwin St., Rochester, N. Y.
16. Jaeger, Jacob A., 1704 Woodbine St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
17. Knox, Herbert H., 620 Elmwood Ave., Niagara Falls, N. Y
18. Livergood Everett, 623 N. Sth., Springfield, III.
19. Mc Ginn, William E., Walnut Grove, Minnesota.
20. Neal, Allie, Benton, III.
21. Nunley, Noah W., Mc Leansboro, III.
22. Œtting Stephen, Bowdle So., Dak.
23. Perry, Floyd, Northwood. Ia.
24. Perryman, Rasty, West frank fort, III.
25. Rechin, Christian J., 34 Harriet Ave., Buffalo, N. Y.
26. Rummel, Clarence W., 303 Wyoming Ave., Buffalo, N. Y.
27. Sargent, William D., 66 Balcom St., Buffalo, N. Y.
28. Schlotzer, Leo A., 21 Horton Place, Buffalo, N. Y.
29. Tobin, Daniel B., 171 Woodlawn Ave., Auburn, N. E.
30. Turner, Ernest H., Bingham Lake, Minn.
31. Vragel, William C., 90 Berlin St., Rochester, N. Y.
32. Widmark, Roy, Hendnicks, Minn.
33. Whittington, Arthur B., Whittington, III

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COOKS

1. Ballew, Walter A., 218 West 17th St., Little Rock, Ark.
2. Johnsrud Elmer, 2C6 South 5th St., Montevideo, Minn.
3. Vanderlee, Joseph, 971 Breck St., Rochester, N. Y.

MECHANICS

1. Corona, Sam, Christopher, III.
2. Endicott, Claude A., Mc Leansboro, III.
3. Gregory, Lester, R. 1, Box 149, Mulkeytown, III.
4. Sallis Jack, 100 Ambrose St., Rochester, N. Y.

BUGLERS

1. Tiedeman, Paul c., Chaska, Minnesota.
2. Vandenbusch, John J., 22 Presque St., Rochester, N. K.

PRIVATES FIRST CLASS

1. Allison, Albert, 793 East 18th St.. Patterson, N. J.
2. Becker, Paul F., LitWtz, Pa.
3. Berger, Edward, 105 East 17 th St., Patterson, N. J.
4. Bivelaka, Alexander, 27-3rd Ave., Utica, N. Y.
5. Blide, David F., 21 Iroquois St., Rochester, N. Y.
6. Borgstede, Frederick C., 202 Road St., Rochester, N. Y.
7. Brooks, Sidney J., 86 Catherine St., Malone, N. Y.
8. Braley, Leon E., North Creek, N. Y.
9. Calangelo, Aurelio, Box, 109 Wa’cott, N. Y.
10. Carle, Clarence, 57 Henry St., Kingston, N. Y.
11. Carney, Edward B., 1308 Whitney Ave., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
12. Diets, Louis, 1826 Cornel a St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
13. Dillon, John F., 656 Leonard St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
14. Donohue, Edward F., 727 Knickerbocker Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
15. Ellis, Robert E., 625 Jefferson Ave., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
16. Finnegan, Thomas B., 2427 Silver St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
17. Fortmann, George E., 207 Breck St., Rochester, N. Y.
18. Fraser, Robert L., P. O. Box 98, Trenton Nova Scotia, Canada.
19. Garrett, Fred W., Friendship Wisconsin.
20. Hain William M., 814 Sprove St., Lebanon, Pa.
21. Harnischfeger, Herbert C., 80 Cummins St., Rochester, N. Y.
22. Hogan, John F., 72 Hirkimer St., Rochester, N. Y.
23. Hoerber, Louis W., 556 Fairview Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
24. Hubregsen, Andrew, 500 Merchants Road, Rochester, N. Y.
25. Kaiser, Julius E., 1255 Hancock St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
26. Kasden, Charles, 25 Broome St.. New York, N. Y.
27. Kinney Everett, 13 Fairview Roslindale, Mass.
28. Koller, Frank, R. F. D. 20, Youngstokn, N. Y.
29. Kuca, John, West Frankfort, III.
30. Kuehl, George M., 1862 Stanhope St., Brooklyn, N. Y
31. Lane, Clayton A., 13 c St., Nagara Falls, N. Y.
32. Langlois, Alvin H., 325 Hazelwood Terrace, Rochester, N. Y.
33. Lyail, Thomas L., 532 19th St., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
34. Macindoe, Alexander, 347 Dill Place, Brooklyn, N. Y.
35. Nugent, Arthur R., 73 Palmetto St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
36. Oimsted, Raymond H., 25 Roosevelt Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
37. Ostermeier, John, 1356 Delaware Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
38. Patterson. William H., Manooka, Pa.
39. Peters, Ciark. R., 77 Hoyt St., Buffalo, N. Y.
40. Piccolo, Domenico, 26 Moore St., Rochester, N. Y.
41. Rainaldi, Finizio, 166 Frank St., Rochester, N. Y.
42. Rawiey, Michael A., 379 Elk St., Buffalo, N. Y.
43. Rechin, John J., 65 Harriet Ave., Buffalo, N. Y.
44. Root. Jacob E . Tupper Lake, N. Y.
45. Rugraff, Archie C., 943 Ave. D., Rochester, N. Y.
46. Ryder, Michael, 48 Bradford St., Auburn, N. Y.
47. Schmid, Herman, 68 Weaver St., Rochester, N. Y.
48. Schmitt, Fred P., 23 Boston St., Rochester, N. Y.
49. Sehm, Albert W., Penfield, N. Y.
50. Seils, George J., 193 Berlin St., Rochester, N. Y.
51. Stark, George E., 31 Laser St., Rochester, N. Y.
52. Stumpf, Roy J., 1261 North Clinton Ave., Rochester, N. Y.
53. Tennety, Lawrence, 188 Perrine Ave., Auburn, N. Y.
54. Tichenor, Raiph L., R. F. D. 2, Manchester, Kansas.
55. Troescher, Karl W., 1622 Oakland Ave., Youngstown. Ohio.
56. Vangra Ageiland, Evord, 35 Laser St., Rochester, N. Y.
57. Vanhise, Eari J., 117 Mercer St., Trenton, N. J.
58. Vawro, Albert, 917 Fay St., Utica, N. Y.
59. Zickwolf, Edward, 668 Washington St., Trenton, N. J.

The roster of Officers and Enlisted Men of Company C, 346th Infantry AEF, 20 January 1919. Part 2 of 2. GGA Image ID # 1e6f92077c

PRIVATES

1. Agronin, Nathan, 321 Monroe St., Syracuse, N. Y.
2. Aicheler, Christian J., 107 Foxall St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
3. Ainsworth, Frank R., 127 Mulberry St., Williamsport, Pa.
4. Alfier, Charles, 470 River St., Patterson, N. Y.
5. Amatta, Sam, 1809 Ferry Ave., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
6. Bacho, John H., Demster St., Phillipsburg, N. J.
7. Beers, Roy, 1158 Portland Ave., Rochester, N. Y.
8. Bickford, Edward, Constantia. N. Y.
9. Bovanizer, Roy F., 1505 Linwood Ave., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
10. Breen, Martin J., 805 Woodward Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
11. Brusziz, Tony, 129 Ave. E., Bayonne, N. Y.
12. Burkley, Frederick V., 1060 Forest Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
13. Burns, John P., 311 Mc Neac St., Millville, N. Y.
14. Cahill, Joseph A., 1248 North Alden Ave., Trenton, N. J.
15. Caprotti, Joseph, Ascoli, Piccene Italy.
16. Centuori, Joseph. 9 Vine St., New Ark., N. J.
17. Chella, Joseph, 42 Butler St.. Trenton. N. J.
18. Chevedian, Korkre, 140 West 27 St., New York, N. Y.
19. Christiano, Felix D., 15 Winchester, Buffalo, N. Y.
20. Ciampi, Benvenuto, 37 Alexander St., Abbany, N. Y.
21. Combs, Andrew E., Elmwood Ave., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
22. Conn, Claude L., Gurdon, Ark.
23. Corbitt, Warde E., Webster, N. Y.
24. Cronopulos, Costos D., 33 Cabot St., Salem, Mass.
25. D’Alessandro, Samuel, 711 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, N. J.
26. Dekowski, Stanislauw, 398 Sweet Ave., Buffalo, N. Y.
27. Dennis, Enoch w., 327 South Warren St., Trenton, N. J.
28. Donofro, Joseph, 64 Victoria Ave., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
29. Farley, William F., 77 Rose Wood Terrace. Rochester, N. Y.
30. Fenyvessy, Paul A., 22 Ramsey Pk., Rochester, N. Y.
31. Finn. Thomas, 22 Wyatt St.. Sommerville, Mass.
32. Fortuno. William H., 120 West Thomas Rome, N. Y.
33. Rox, William T. Jr., 1572 Highland Ave., Rochester, N. Y.
34. Freesborn, Floyd H., R. F. D. 1, Geneva, N. Y.
35. Gardener, Edgar F., 834 Federal St., Camden, N. J.
36. Clowatzke, Fred W., 47 Priscella St., Rochester, N. Y.
37. Graham, Thomas, 427 Ellicott St., Batavia, N. Y.
38. Green, Herman J., Pavilion, N. Y.
39. Gussmann, Charles F., 59-5 St., Rochester, N. Y.
40. Hanskins, Amos, 10 Stockton Place, Trenton, N. J.
41. Hapeenowich, Artie, 827 Grape St., Syracuse, N. Y.
42. Hasley, Edward A., 1647 South St.. Niagara Falls, N. Y.
43. Hence, John J., Fort Covington, N. Y.
44. Heuer, Adam R.. 1858 Putnam Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
45. Hoffmann, Charles J.. 1789 Sommerville Evergreen LI, NY.
46. Hoffmann, George, 977 Seneca Ave, Brooklyn, N. Y.
47. Hurley, Peter, 63 Powell St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
48. Jakubach, Stanley, 1172 Mount Vernon St., Camden, N. J.
49. Jarvis, Edward A., 832 E. State St., Trenton, N. J.
50. Johnson, Howard W., R. F. D., Cakfield, N. Y.
51. Karasky, George J., 52319th St., Niagara Falls, N. Y.
52. Kaupp, William C., 689 Prospect Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
53. Kempf, George E., 135 Elder St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
54. Knoll, Cecil W., 62 West 2nd St., Dunkirk, N. Y.
55. Kosten, Alexander, Trowmart Inn., 12 Abbington Sq., N. Y.
56. Konen, Augustine J., 109 Hone St., Klingston, N. Y.
57. Kregler, George, 1862 Harmon St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
58. Kurtz, Russell I., 217 Church St., Trenton, N. J.
59. Lesinski, John E., Koscinsko St., Buffalo, N. Y.
60. Long, Chris, 213 Fairview St.. Riverside, N. Y.
61. Mszyca, John J., Ostrowa Czyrstochow, Russ Poland.
62. Nearon, Nathan, 164 Laurel St., Philadelphia, Pa.
63. O’Donnell, John J., 93 West 20th St., Bayonne, N. J.
64. Orlando, Giovanni, 15 Barber St., Auburn, N. Y.
65. Ozupko, Mitro, Tenafly, N. J.
66. Peet, John H., 289 Oakland St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
67. Pelagia, Antonio, 392 Oak St., Rochester, N. Y.
68. Pepe John, 317 Walnut St., Camden, N. J.
69. Perione, Sam, 5 Lime St., Rochester, N. Y.
70. Polimeni, Carmelo, 101 Cane St., Rochester, N. Y.
71. Prince, Gordon P., 88 Erie St., Brockport, N. Y.
72. Rother, Albert, 546 North Division St., Buffalo, N. Y.
73. Rotolo, Peter, 578 Bay St., Rochester, N. Y.
74. Ruane, James S., 355 State St., Auburn, N. Y.
75. Samsel, Frank P., Bridgeport Conn.
76. Santillo Luigi, Box 452 Sodus, N. Y.
77. Selbert, John L., 87 Penn Ave., Rochester, N. Y.
78. Sellitto, Pasquale, 70 Jones St., Rochester, N. Y.
79. Seuffert, William F., 9 Lochenor Place. Rochester, N. Y.
80. Simmonetti, Vincenzo, 404 Oak St., Buffalo, N. Y.
81. Slattery, Michael, 384 Fulton St., Buffalo, N. Y.
82. Stella, Cincinnato, 33 Via Castella Cirpinet Roman, Italy.
83. Steffen, Albert, 160 Randal St., Trenton, N. Y.
84. Sullivan, John J., 477 State St., Rochester, N. Y.
85. Sullivan, Norman J., 1019 Clinton St., Buffalo, N. Y.
86. Swedburg, Peter, 129 West Housen St., Buffalo, N. Y.
87. Tantaïo, Achille, Villevale, Elonga Aquala, Italy.
88. Toal, Fred A., 388 Gelye Terrace, Rochester, N. Y.
89. Traikos, Athanas, 17 Andrews St.. Rochester, N. Y.
90. Vnndervliet, William S., 16 North 11th St., Patterson, N. J.
91. Vannest, William S., Martinsville, N. J.
92. Vankadsand, Adrian, 86 Jefferson St., Patterson, N. J.
93. Vormwald, Peter G., 249 Ashmore Ave., Trenton, N. J.
94. Walenitz, Jacob, 10 Orgon St., Rochester, N. Y.
95. Wilson, Edgar B., 916 Melrose Ave., Trenton, N. J.
96. Wilson, Peter M., 422 Linwood Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
97. Wheeler, Joseph, 505 West 150th St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
98. Wolpert, David, 146 Spruve St., Buffalo, N. Y.
99. WoychynskI, Felix, 193 Dupont St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
100. Yerns, Marcellus A., 29 Bartlett St.. Rochester, N. Y.
101. Zajac, Stanley, 181 Sobreski St., Buffalo, N. Y.

The 346th Infantry Historical Notes, 1917-1919. Privately Published 1919, Pages 84-87.

📌 The Formation & Training of Company C (Camp Pike, Arkansas - 1917)

📌 Arrival at Camp Pike (September 19, 1917)

🔹 10,000 eager draftees reported for training at Camp Pike.

🔹 The company was first commanded by Captain Stephen T. Ronan and later led by Captain James E. Bramlett.

🔹 Soldiers endured harsh Arkansas winters—ears froze during sentry duty, and fingers went numb during inspections.

🔹 Quarantines due to disease outbreaks further isolated soldiers, making home visits impossible.

📝 Why This Matters:

✔ Provides a glimpse into the struggles of early military training.

✔ Highlights the tough discipline and resilience required of new recruits.

✔ Shows the transformation of civilians into soldiers during the war.

📌 The Journey to France: Deployment & Training Overseas (1918)

📌 Crossing the Atlantic

🔹 The company departed Camp Dix for Europe via the SS Ceramic, one of the largest single-stack liners afloat.

🔹 The threat of German U-boats meant constant drills and alarms aboard the ship.

🔹 Company C landed in Liverpool, England, took a train to Winchester, and later traveled to Le Havre, France.

📌 Settling in St. Nazaire, France

🔹 The soldiers expected combat, but instead, they were assigned to Base Section No. 1 near St. Nazaire.

🔹 Their role in logistical and supply operations was crucial to keeping the front lines supported.

🔹 Despite not seeing combat, they played a vital role in sustaining American forces in Europe.

📝 Why This Matters:

✔ Highlights the importance of behind-the-scenes operations in warfare.

✔ Demonstrates the challenges of deployment and adaptation to foreign environments.

✔ Shows how Company C’s expectations of frontline service contrasted with their actual roles.

📌 The "Battle of Montoir" – A Satirical Look at Life Behind the Lines

📌 A Unique “Battle” Without Bullets

🔹 The soldiers humorously referred to their daily struggles in St. Nazaire as the "Battle of Montoir."

🔹 They endured cold tents, muddy trenches, and limited rations of canned salmon ("goldfish").

🔹 Military Police (M.P.s) enforced strict discipline, but some soldiers found creative ways to sneak into local towns.

📝 Why This Matters:

✔ Offers a humorous and humanizing perspective on soldier life in WWI.

✔ Highlights how morale was maintained through humor and camaraderie.

✔ Captures the contrast between the harsh realities of war and soldiers’ ability to find levity in hardship.

📌 The Soldiers of Company C: Notable Names & Their Stories

📌 Captain James E. Bramlett (Clarksdale, Mississippi)

🔹 Took command of Company C after its deployment to France.

🔹 Praised the men for their dedication despite not seeing frontline action.

🔹 Encouraged soldiers to continue serving their country in peacetime.

📌 Sergeant Lloyd Upchurch (Benton, Illinois)

🔹 Led platoon drills and combat training during the unit’s time at Camp Pike.

🔹 Recognized for strong leadership skills, though never tested in direct combat.

📌 Corporal Ludwig K. Gjenvick (Madison, Minnesota)

🔹 A Norwegian immigrant who enlisted and became a non-commissioned officer.

🔹 Served in logistical operations in St. Nazaire and later received WWI veteran compensation.

🔹 His life story is an example of immigrant contributions to the U.S. military.

📌 Private Paul C. Tiedeman (Chaska, Minnesota)

🔹 Served as Company Bugler, responsible for reveille and battle calls.

🔹 Played an important role in maintaining discipline and signaling drills.

📝 Why These Soldiers Matter:

✔ Gives a personal connection to the history of the 346th Infantry.

✔ Helps genealogists identify individual service members and their contributions.

✔ Highlights the diverse backgrounds of American soldiers during WWI.

📷 Noteworthy Images & Their Significance

📌 Emblem of Company C, 346th Infantry, 87th Division

📷 Symbol of the Company’s Identity & Brotherhood

🔹 Represents their unity, sacrifices, and service during WWI.

🔹 A historical artifact linking soldiers to their regimental legacy.

📌 Roster of Officers & Enlisted Men (1919)

📷 Key for Genealogical Research

🔹 Lists dozens of names, ranks, and home addresses of Company C members.

🔹 A valuable resource for historians and descendants researching WWI soldiers.

📚 Relevance for Different Audiences

📌 🧑‍🏫 For Teachers & Students:

✔ Offers a firsthand look at WWI military training, deployment, and service life.

✔ Great for studying the experiences of American Expeditionary Forces (AEF).

✔ Encourages discussions about the roles of supply & logistics in warfare.

📌 📖 For Historians & Military Researchers:

✔ Provides primary-source details on the 87th Division’s contributions to WWI.

✔ Explores the experiences of “support troops” instead of frontline combat units.

✔ Highlights the humor, struggles, and realities of behind-the-lines soldiers.

📌 🧬 For Genealogists & Family Historians:

✔ Includes a full roster of soldiers from Company C.

✔ Helps trace ancestors who served in the AEF.

✔ Provides insight into the daily lives of enlisted men and officers.

🌟 Final Thoughts: A Fascinating Account of WWI Military Life

📌 This firsthand history of Company C, 346th Infantry, AEF, provides a unique and engaging glimpse into the life of WWI soldiers.

✔ It captures the reality of military training, overseas deployment, and support roles.

✔ It highlights the struggles and humor of soldiers behind the lines.

✔ It preserves the names and experiences of those who served in the Great War.

For anyone studying WWI or searching for family military history, this historical record is invaluable. 🇺🇸🏅