Chaplains of the
36th Infantry Division
by
Chaplain (Colonel) Herbert E. MacCombie
Division Chaplain
Chaplain Lehne and Colonel Price
We had many unit commanders in the division
who gave excellent support to the work of the chaplains.
While we were in the States, Chaplain Lehne
(at that time assigned to the 141st Infantry) suffered a heart attack. We
did not know whether he could go overseas with us or not.
I went to the hospital to inquire about his
prospects. The surgeon told me that he would leave the matter up to me.
Chaplain Lehne might not have any further trouble. On the other hand he
might have difficulty marching with the infantry. I talked with Chaplain
Lehne. He wanted very much to return to his regiment.
I went to Lieutenant Colonel Andrew F. Price,
executive officer of the 141st Infantry. I explained the situation to
him, and said, “The decision is up to us. The doctors will rate him unfit
for combat duty, or fit for overseas duty according to our wishes. What
shall we do?”
Without hesitation Colonel Price replied, “We
want him with us. If he cannot walk, I will give him my own jeep.”
Chaplain Lehne was returned to duty and went
overseas with us. Many of us were glad that he came, for he was one of
our great chaplains. He was decorated for outstanding service in support
of combat operations.
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Copyright 2001
by Mary MacCombie Fietsam
Printed by Permission |
