On Mother’s Day weekend in 1943, Norwood paid tribute to one of its earliest World War II heroes, Rudolph Ballough, through two solemn and deeply symbolic ceremonies led by his sister, Mrs. Louis King of Philbrick Street.
At the invitation of Rear Admiral R. A. Theobald—acting under the authority of Secretary of the Navy Frank Knox—Mrs. King was selected to sponsor the launching of Sub Chaser PC‑1273 at the Quincy‑Adams Yacht Yard on May 8, 1943. The honor reflected both her brother’s sacrifice and the town’s pride in his service.
The following day, May 9th at 2 p.m., she would stand again before the community to unveil Norwood’s Honor Roll, a newly erected board on the Town Square listing the names of 1,400 servicemen. Additional names would continue to be added as more Norwood residents entered the armed forces.
Rudolph Ballough’s Service
Ballough served twelve years in the U.S. Navy and belonged to the famed MTB boat squadron that fought in the early Pacific campaigns around the Philippines. His squadron was later chronicled by W. L. White in They Were Expendable, where Ballough’s name appears alongside his Norwood address. The unit’s commander was Lieutenant Commander John D. Bulkeley, one of the war’s most celebrated PT‑boat leaders.
Ballough’s death marked Norwood’s first WWII casualty, and the twin honors bestowed upon his sister that weekend reflected the town’s enduring respect for his courage and sacrifice.
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Norwood Press a Valued Industry-This Day in Norwood History-June 29, 1895
This Day in Norwood History-June 29, 1895-Norwood Press a Valued Industry
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A Press With A History-This Day in Norwood History-June 22, 1895
The old-time hand press illustrated on our first page, and which was displaced in the parade last Monday by the Norwood Press, has a hallowed history, for over its frame … Continue reading A Press With A History-This Day in Norwood History-June 22, 1895
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Ben Franklin’s Press Exhibited at Norwood’s Gala Day-This Day in Norwood History-June 22, 1895
Norwood’s Flag Day celebration was held on June 17th for many years, and was a major event. In 1895, the proceedings included a “A Grand Parade of G.A.R. Post No. 169, Fire Department, N.H.S. Battalion, School Children in Barges, Leading Industries, Handsomely Decorated Carriages, etc., Sport at Prospect Park, Grand Concert.” The highlight of the…
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Businessmen’s Association Meeting-Ladies’ Night Observed With a Banquet and Ball-This Day in Norwood History-May 11, 1895
The second annual Ladies’ Night of the Norwood Business Association, which was celebrated in Masonic and Village Halls on Tuesday night, was one of the most brilliant banquets ever given in Norwood.
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Norwood Athletic Association Founded-This Day in Norwood History-February 23, 1895
The Norwood Athletic Association was organized at the rooms in the Norwood Press Works Monday evening, February 11. The following officers were elected under the provisional constitution: President, Warren F. … Continue reading Norwood Athletic Association Founded-This Day in Norwood History-February 23, 1895
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The Newest Arrangements In Women’s Hair-This Day in Norwood History-February 2, 1895
Coiffures Are Parted and Full Coils Are Worn Low On the Neck —Certain Styles Suit Certain Faces The hats have revolutionized hairdressing. It is a bit comforting to think, however, … Continue reading The Newest Arrangements In Women’s Hair-This Day in Norwood History-February 2, 1895
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Anna Smith Day Hosts Reception for Universalists At Day House-This Day in Norwood History-February 2, 1895
Mrs. Lewis Day, Mrs. J. M. Winslow and Mrs. W. B. Eddy gave an informal reception at the home of Mrs. Day last Monday evening, taking this way to redeem … Continue reading Anna Smith Day Hosts Reception for Universalists At Day House-This Day in Norwood History-February 2, 1895
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John Gillin Wants Children Carried to School-This Day In Norwood History-January 8, 1895
Their Father Now Wants Damages Because Their Conveyance is Not Suitable. NORWOOD, Jan 8— Three suits, aggregating $15,000, have been brought by Mr. John Gillin, who resides in the Ellis … Continue reading John Gillin Wants Children Carried to School-This Day In Norwood History-January 8, 1895
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Tyler Thayer Tells of Hard Times in 1837-This Day In Norwood History-January 4, 1895
Tyler Thayer of Norwood Tells of Time When Flour Was $18 a Barrel. NORWOOD, Jan 4—Tyler Thayer is one of Norwood’s wealthy men. He is a retired builder, who began … Continue reading Tyler Thayer Tells of Hard Times in 1837-This Day In Norwood History-January 4, 1895
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Dedication of the Norwood Press-This Day In Norwood History-December 22, 1894
A Great Success Nearly two thousand people gathered Thursday night to help dedicate the Norwood Press Building. It was the largest gathering ever seen in our town, and the enjoyment … Continue reading Dedication of the Norwood Press-This Day In Norwood History-December 22, 1894
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