Highest Rating Again For Local National Guard Unit-This Day In Norwood History-September 6, 1962

RIFLE INSPECTION—Camp Drum, N.Y.—Inspection by Capt. Joseph F. Murphy, Norwood, commander of “E” Company, 101st Infantry, is made of weapons while on maneuvers. The riflemen practiced live firing in attack and defense techniques during their six days of bivouac. Shown from left to right are Col. Kenneth Webster, Sgt. Louis R„ Santoro, Pfc. Joseph C. McKinnon, and Sgt. Joseph W. Sullivan all of Norwood. (126th Sig. Bn. Photos)

Again this year, Norwood’s National Guard Unit, Company E, 1st Battle Group, 101st Infantry was rated by active army evaluators as most proficient in Training, Supply, Food Management, and Administration of all companies of the 101st Infantry. This goal was reached only by proper planning and hard work on the part of every man from the Commanding Officer down to the lowest Private.

During this summer training period the key words were “Army Training Test,” for tests at squad, section and platoon level were conducted daily to determine the proficiency of the units. Let’s follow, a platoon through a night attack on an enemy-held position.

PLAN DEFENSE—Camp Drum, N.Y.—Plans for defense of their bivouac area are made by members of “E” company, 101st Inf., during their two week training period in the forest near the Canadian border. Aggressor units harassed YD troops to keep their defenses sharp, by using tear gas and smoke grenades. Shown from left to right are Cpl. John Carter, Sp-4 Richard Cherella, Sp.4 Peter Nixon and Master Sgt. Oscar Magnuson all of Walpole. (126th Sig. Bn. Photo)

“1st Squad will follow that ridge until it reaches that line of trees — from there you will launch your assault on the objective in coordination with the rest of the platoon.” 1st Lt. William V. Brady of Avon lies in concealment on the crest of a hill and gives an operation order for a night attack to his assembled squad leaders. The leader of the 1st squad, Staff Sergeant Kenneth W. Roberts of Norwood, takes notes and makes mental pictures for the night operation. He knows that on his left will be the 2nd squad with Staff Sergeant John F. Carney Jr. of Canton in command; and on his right will be Sergeant Warren A. Hassey of Norwood with his third squad. To his fear, during the assault, the machine guns of the weapons squad, commanded by Staff Sergeant Norman C. Cherella of Norwood, will be ready for instant action where needed. The 3.5 in. rocket launcher, manned by Specialist 4th Class Robert J. Nolfi of Dedham, will be close by, ready to defend against a surprise use of enemy armor.

By LT. PETER F. CONNOR