CITY HALL DAYS

After I got married my outlook on life changed. I had to become responsible and serious. Changing jobs, every 2 or 3 years, was no longer acceptable, it was time to settle into a secure career. It was time to get off the roller coaster. The opportunity came when I answered an ad, in the Chicago Tribune, for a Systems Analyst position with the City of Chicago. I was leery of government, but applied anyway. Working for government presented a negative perspective. I got a reply for an interview. The first step was a programming test. I passed, than was interviewed by a Systems Manager in the Chicago Data Center. I was hired. My start date was April 15, 1970, the salary, $10,700.

I was assigned to Lavern Breen who was to become my mentor and friend. She was great. You couldn’t ask for a better person to work with. She wanted me to succeed. I was assigned to work on the Board of Health Birth and Death System. Again I was fortunate to work with some wonderful people: the manager Henry Stanton and Jim Masterson, Chief Statistician. My responsibility was to ensure that a statistical report of births and deaths was prepared every Friday for the CDC (Center for Disease Control) to develop national figures for analysis. The assignment lasted 3-6 months.

I did very well, I passed the 3 month review and received a raise, I passed the 6 month review and got a raise and I passed the one year review and got a raise. I soon was promoted to Senior Systems Analyst and in a short time Principal Systems Analyst. I was beginning to make money. And Fred Farris said I should be an accountant! The environment fit my skills and personality. The only problem that came up in my first days was receiving my first paycheck My check was held up. They put a brick on it. I couldn’t understand it. I got the job through the Tribune, passed the requirements and was performing my duties. This upset me. I was mad. I wasn’t sure what to do. Than, I thought, that since I had been a member of the Illinois National Guard and General Kane was Director of Gun Control, I should talk to him. I went to his office and told him the situation. He told me it might be a good idea to see my committeeman since I was working for a political organization. I nodded my head and went back to my office. By the time I got back, my check was there. The General had made a phone call and resolved the situation. The Data Center Managers heard what I did and weren’t pleased with my actions and spoke among themselves about being more careful on who they hire. For the rest of my tenure no one approached or talked to me about politics. I never went to my committeeman and remained non political.

In time Laverne introduced me to Mike Hogan, from the Department of Personnel. Mike was in charge of Payroll Certification and coordinated personnel systems with the Data Center. Mike became a true friend and helper in moving my career forward. He was honest and realistic. He was interested in doing a good job. In time Mike transferred to the Chicago Fire Department and wanted me to replace him in Personnel. The timing was perfect, for I was to face some of the biggest system challenges the Department of Personnel would ever encounter. At the time, the Department of Personnel was dependent upon the Data Center for its data processing. As I became familiar with the systems, I began to plan the reorganization of the data processing needs for the DOP. I was fortunate that the Data Center had sent me for classes in Systems Development and Analysis at the Federal Building. These classes laid the foundation for much of the work that was to follow. The education provided me with the knowledge and approaches needed to bring about the changes necessary to meet the challenges in a timely and efficient manner... Two areas were of concern: Personnel Records and Examinations. I was about to venture into something unheard of, challenge the data center, and move some of the technical responsibilities to the User Department. This was rejected by the Data Center. Dr. Pounian, Director of Personnel, backed my position and took our proposal to Mayor Richard J. Daley. We won and were able to purchase our own Mini Computer, Entrex System. By this time I was enlisting the help of Lester Ascher, who moved from the Examination Division to my Systems Unit. Lester was a good technician and quickly learned to run and manage the Entrex. We became a team. I not only needed someone to manage Entrex, but also the expertise to write programs to create and modify systems. I applied for and received several grants to fund changes to the Certification System and to build a Biographical Examination Entry Program (BEEP). Again, I was fortunate to enroll the part-time help of two former DC Programmer Analysts to accomplish these tasks. Janis Kelly, former Programming Manager, took on the Certification project and Joe Tumminaro the BEEP Project. For $10,000 we put in place two excellent systems.

The BEEP System eventually grew to not only capture examination biographical data but encompassed the complete exam process: preparing exam notices, exam lists, statist tics, logistics, and other needed information. BEEP was instrumental in the processing of the Police and Fire Exams in the 70’s and 80’s. The system managed over 40,000 candidates for several police and fire exams and established the logistics for exam sites as well as test scoring. We also captured oral and physical exam data. Lester and James Jackson were instrumental in utilizing the data to generate the statistics used to defend the City in numerous court cases. There were times that we worked into the night, taking over the City’s two IBM 360 Computers; to prepare the statistics and information needed to meet court deadlines.

While building the exam systems, Florence Brophy, Manager of Test Scoring became ill requiring me to assume responsibility for the Test Scoring Division. We made some changes and McKinley Rogers became supervisor. Mac did a good job and was an excellent support person during this critical period in the City’s history. We modernized the file systems and kept pace with new technology to enable us to process the large number of applicants. .I also accepted responsibility for the Personnel’s Administrative Division which included: mail room, tuition reimbursement, photo id, reception room, purchasing, and most important the Budget. This assignment came because of my suggestion to Dr. Pounian that we needed better management of the budget. I was given the title Director of Systems and Administration... I had a fine staff: Connie, Eleanor, Olga, Lilly, Paula and more. With good people the job was enjoyable and successful.
We forged ahead in automating Personnel Systems and setting the model for other user departments. The changes wouldn’t have been possible without the fine work and effort of everyone involved. It was a team effort.

The environment was fascinating. We were part of history... Some mornings, when we went for coffee, at Counselors Row, across from City Hall, we would see legendary Aldermen: Keane, Roti, Vydolyak, Burke and others. This was a historical meeting place. When you were lucky, you might see Mayor, Richard J. Daley walking briskly through the tunnel of the Civic Center (Daley Center) to a meeting. The period was famous for its Council Wars. It was exciting to watch the Aldermen conduct business. One of my tasks was to sit on test panels for Police and Fire Exams where I had the pleasure to meet many of the top brass that commanded Police and Fire Units. I remember sitting on one of those panels, on a Friday before Memorial Day, when a plane crashed at OHare, killing over 190 passengers. The commanders were quickly sent to the crash site. To look back and revisit the accomplishments and events is amazing to know we participated in such an important period in the history of the City of Chicago...

Keeping morale was a priority. With the help of Katie we introduced “Scoop” to the DOP. It was a monthly newsletter of the Department’s happenings. Dr. Pounian would have preferred a literary piece, but Scoop was designed for and well received by the employees. After a year or two we disbanded Scoop and restructured it at Christmas time as a means to exchange season greetings and collect money for charity. We sold space in Scoop and donated the money to charity. Debbie provided much of the art work and the idea became a big hit. The Christmas Party was also a favorite, for $3 you got a hot lunch along with a raffle and Christmas Carols. The Department was like family.

The Department provided me with the opportunity to get a Masters Degree in Public Administration. Under the Tuition Reimbursement Program I went to DePaul U. from 1976 to 1980 gaining a degree that enhanced my career. In the early eighties, I found that there was a Superior Service Award for top employees. Knowing that no one would nominate me, I conspired with Lester to write a nomination letter. I was selected as a top candidate in the Supervisor category. I did not win, but did receive an honoree certificate. In a similar case, I tooted my horn to go to the City’s Executive Development Program. If you didn’t speak up, no one would do it for you. As a supervisor I also attended the Media Program at the Police Academy which instructed employees on how to work with the media.

During my 15 years the saddest day was in December 1976 when Richard J. Daley died. I believe it was late on a Friday afternoon that he passed away from a stroke. The Mayor was replaced by Michael Bilandic. Unfortunately for Bilandic there was a big snow storm in 1979 that provided Jane Byrne the ammunition to defeat him in the next election. . Byrne had a fiery term. She seemed to cause all kinds of rumors and problems. I remember her assistant, Lou , asked me for a list of personal information on all Police or Firemen. I didn’t know what do, so I had Lester prepare the list. When Lou called for the report I gave it to Dr. Pounian... I advised Lou to see Dr. Pounian; the Doctor threw him out of his office. There was a period of time after that that the Doctor was on the hot seat with the Mayor. Byrne lost in a bid for reelection to Harold Washington, Chicago’s first black mayor. City Hall changed. What bothered me was the attitude of Harold Washington’s followers; they thought it was now their turn to get their share. I went to a meeting that was conducted by Bernie Barfield, The Mayor’s Chief of Staff, instead of asking people to do a good job; the message was to protect the Mayor. It was inappropriate, you don’t make a good City by protecting one person, you make a good City by everyone doing a good job.

There was a time when I worked in the Data Center that the Director called everyone into the conference room to remind them that it was Election Day. He told us to remember who our employer was. Remember, vote early and often. Only in Chicago. St. Patrick’s Day was a big day during the Daley Administration. The Irish had great pride and ready to party. We normally got off at noon to watch the parade. It was interesting and lively. I had the opportunity to work with the Budget Director, Comptroller along with the Director of Personnel. I would have to say it was my most rewarding and challenging position. I will always remember the fine people and the binding of family that was alive in the Department of Personnel.

During my stay with the City of Chicago We bought a house at 5436 S. Avers. My wife was working at Christ Hospital and my son Georgie was one year old. I commuted via the Archer Ave. bus to downtown Chicago. Later in the 90’s the elevated was expanded to Pulaski and would have made the commute faster. We were members of St. Turibius Parish, where Georgie went to school and would graduate. We were active in scouts, Band, and later the school board. Georgie played the organ, sax and clarinet and was successful in many competitions. He took instructions from Mr. Stan Robson and Otto Nagle and joined Nagel’s Spartan Band. The Spartan Band was also known as the Rafter Rats and played at Chicago Sting Soccer games. Turibius kept us busy and active. Monsignor Mroczkowski was the pastor and was an excellent spiritual and administrative leader. One of the memorable moments was in 1979 when I got 2 tickets to attend Pope John Paul’s, Polish mass at Five Holy Martyrs parish. It was held outdoors and I attended with Georgie. We admired John Paul and were hoping to have a child and name it John Paul... In 1980 after 10 years, we didn’t have a John Paul; we had a lovely girl, Carrie Marie Tarasuk. We had been in the neighborhood about 10 years when things started to change. The two frame homes to the south of us had changed hands and the owner, a realty firm, started renting to different types of people. The worse was to happen when he rented to a well known drug dealer. There was a lot of activity to which the neighbors did not take well. Reports were made to the police but little happened. One day, they nabbed him with angel dust in his car. That’s when we found that he had prior arrests for selling drugs to teens at SW Side schools. The neighbors picketed the realty office and forced the dealer to move. He was followed by one of his customers who lost the home. This created a question, do we want our children to be raised in this environment.

The affects of a changing environment and the change to the Washington Administration created a dilemma: should we make changes. The City’s residency requirement was clear that you had to live in the City and job stability under a Washington Administration was questionable. Some said, wait and there would be change, but what if I was forced out. The decision was to find a different position. This was not easy. Through some networking, I was able to find a position with the State of Illinois’ Department of Employment Security. The decision was made to move and end 15 exciting years at the City of Chicago. The best job one could ever expect to have.

REFECTIONS

Growing up was somewhat of a mystery. As I look back at my first 30 years I have to wonder who I was. What made me tick? Sometimes, I feel that I was guided by a strong inner force. An inner feeling that has guided my daily life. It protected me and watched over me and my actions. I was always serious and conscienentious. That was the way I was portrayed in a short pictorial piece in the Tuley Review. Maybe more introvert than extrovert. I never developed many close friends or relationships. I had friends but not to the extent of being dependent upon them. I would describe myself as standoffish and careful and probably naieve. I was protective of my privacy and inner feelings. I was a loaner and independent in my thinking and decisions. Some could describe me as stubborn.

My major weakness was social awareness. I was socially lazy and quiet. I could conduct a conversation and be friendly, but my goals were my priority. My life was focused on school and success. It wasn’t until I was 18 that I considered it important to venture into social activities. In my senior year I started to attend Tuley Socials, by that time few seniors were in attendance. I did little to socialize with the opposite sex. For the most part I knew little about the personal lives of my fellow students. For example when it came time to go to the senior prom I made a serious mistake by asking a female classmate to the prom. Fortunately she had a date and said no. Some how this became a hot topic around school and my friend Tony asked me what I was doing, didn’t I know she was the most promiscuous girl in school... I told him I had no idea and thanked him for telling me. Wow! Tony was what you call a real friend, honest and straight forward... The next girl I asked said “NO”. Nothing like rejection. Finally I asked a junior in one of my classes and she said yes. Again I didn’t know much about her. She was intelligent and attractive and to my surprise had been a finalist in a Miss Photoflash Contest. Later that summer her picture appeared on the cover of Parade Magazine. Some were amazed that she would say yes. My answer was, if you don’t ask, you’ll never know. Maybe it was my hidden charm or maybe she liked me; I don’t know.

Guided by my inner instincts I dated very little. My concentration was on school and studying. I never felt I could afford a girlfriend or the time to devote to a relationship. At DePaul I would go to the ROTC social affairs and a few fraternity dances. Charlie Stulga fixed me up with my first date to the Military Ball. I doubled with Eugene Sit. Normally someone would come to my rescue and set me up with a date. Although, while working at North American Insurance I spotted a girl who worked in the same building that I wanted to ask to a dance, I garnered the courage and approached her and she said yes. It’s hard to meet and introduce yourself to someone you don’t know. Maybe, I was underestimating my abilities.

The problem of finding dates continued when I was in the National Guard. There were always social events which required a date. I remember a sergeant, who worked at Northwest Memorial Hospital, would set me up with some blind dates. In fact he set me up with the most memorable blind date of all time. The girl lived somewhere on the North side with several roommates. When I entered the apartment I got the impression, from the chatter of two of her roommates, that she was using me and not being fair. In fact she was anxious about her date after the date. It appears the girls would swap the apartment on certain nights and had to find places to stay... Well, I escorted her to the dance and I was uncomfortable with the situation. The corker came when it was time to take her home. While driving she said she spotted her brothers car and that I should follow it. Well, this was dangerous and stupid as I sped along like a fool following the so called car... She finally directed me to where she wanted to go for her rendezvous. That was classic, I call it “FOLLOW THAT CAR”. Joe also introduced me to a Polish girl who was an RN at Northwestern. Since I was getting older I felt maybe I should take her out a few times and get to know her before the dance. Mistake, by the time the dance came around she thought I was serious. No cigar. That was scary, and the faster the dance was over the better. I guess I wasn’t always very caring and considerate in some of these situations. I always looked upon it as just a date. Someone wrote a book about it called ”He’s Not That Much Into You.” I wasn’t looking to get married. But again, the opposite can be true, you may like someone and the other person may not care for you...

Fortunately my mother realized I was getting older and that it was time to find someone to marry. My mother was a smart lady. She didn’t want me to be a lonely bachelor. We lived across the alley from Delores Shaefer the wife of Chet Shaefer. I guess my mother and Delores talked about me and came up with a plan. Chet Shaefer was having a Polka Stage Show at Kelly High School and could use someone to collect and sell tickets. It was on a Sunday evening and he had booked some of the top Polka Celebrities: Marion Lush, Ampolaires, Wesoly Stas, Jr. Zelinski, Zosia Dudek and others. When the show ended Delores introduced me to Carol Mendygral. Carol was Delores’ niece. Wow, I was impressed. She was an attractive blond, dressed nicely in a brown fur collar coat with a white scarf. It was love at first sight; I had found my Polish Girlfriend. When I went home I was excited to tell my mother that I met a great girl. My next step was to get a date. I asked Delores for the phone number. That took a while because her daughters, Alice and Janie where playing games. First I had to buy some Girl Scout Cookies before I got the number. I called Carol and she agreed to go out. She was foxy because she kept telling me she had several boy friends: Ralph, who was serious and John. So there was competition. She was not about to make this easy. For our first date we went downtown to see “Georgy Girl”. Before going out Carol had to complete her chores of washing floors. I was taking out Cinderella. This time I was not about to walk away and not try. This was to be a challenge. At last I had found my dream and Polish girlfriend. Carol strung me along for awhile and finally agreed to go steady. Within a year we got engaged. I remember going to her house on her days off for dinner. She would prepare the meal and then we would go out. She liked to dance, so after some dance lessons, we would go Polka or Ballroom Dancing. One of our most memorable dates was in March 1967. We had planned to go bowling in Oak Lawn and did not realize that a tornado had struck the town. As we drove down 95th street we saw the devastation that had taken place; the High School had been ripped in half and cars and buses thrown upside down. When I got home that evening I found that the Guards had been calling me to report for duty.

When we met Carol was working at the University of Chicago Hospital in Hyde Park. After starting to date someone stole Carol’s car. It was a new Chevy Malibu. It wasn’t badly damaged and we recovered it from an auto pond on 79th Street. The University didn’t provide much security and Carol did not feel safe. She left the hospital for a job closer to home, Holy Cross Hospital. Before we got married she switched to Christ Community Hospital in Oak Lawn. She continued to work at Christ for over 30 years. When we met I was unemployed. That wasn’t good. After some time I found work at Reliance Trading at 37th and Iron Streets.

Our courtship lasted about a year before we got engaged and started planning our wedding. We were alike in many ways and comfortable with our decision. We knew we would marry at St. Turibius and needed a nice hall. We set the date for June 22, 1968. Originally we wanted Przyblo’s House of the White Eagle, which was in the process of building a new banquet facility in Niles. The problem was that the premises would not be ready by our wedding day. They still owned the Andrew House on Division near California, but the neighborhood was questionable. Carol’s father knew that they were opening a hall at 57th and Kedzie called Pressmans Hall. It was run by the Lelkos. It was brand new with a reputation for good polish food. The Lelko’s would also eventually run the Landmark on Archer Road. Of course we wanted a Polka Band. We went to the dances to review the ones we liked. In the end we selected the Ampolaires. I remember going to Central Paints on Central and Fullerton and talking to Roman Travers and Dick Zimber. We booked the band... Our photographer was Mr. Sims from Jans Photos and our flowers came from Sherwood Florist on Pulaski. In selecting our bridesmaids and ushers we selected relatives; the bridesmaids were Carol’s cousin Michalene Wojs, my cousin Roberta Weglarz, her sister Christine, my niece Pat Chapan, and her aunt Camille Fudala. The ushers were my nephew Michael Chapan, my cousin James Weglarz and Carol’s cousin Frank Fudala ,her brother James Mendygral and my nephew Donald Holod..

Before the wedding we had a bridal shower in her mother’s basement on 56th and Hamlin. It was held on a Sunday afternoon. This was to be a very historic date because it was the weekend that Martin Luther King was killed. Many of our North side relatives were afraid to travel to the Southside. Fortunately everything was safe and Carol had a wonderful shower.

June 22nd arrived and it was beautiful sunny Saturday in the 70”s. The tension was rising and there was a lot of stress and doubt. I believe I got Carol upset over something, so I sent her a red rose from our garden on Iowa Street. I guess she still loved me because she didn’t back down... Mass was at 11 A.M. and performed by Father Al Cicora. After mass we had a luncheon at The Golden Ox on Archer Ave. In the evening we gathered at Pressman’s. We had about 250 – 300 guests. We had invited relatives, friends and neighbors. My godfather Tony Bidus and his wife Francis came from Florida for the wedding. At the end of the evening we had to pay the Zelkos and the band. We had a check for the hall and the band wanted cash. We had to tap some of the envelopes to pay the band. We paid for our own wedding and broke even. When we were about to leave we found someone had let the air out of my tires and filled the backseat with balloons. I didn’t appreciate the humor. Fortunately I had an air pump and filled the tires. The bride and groom were now ready to go to their new home. Prior to the wedding we rented, cleaned, painted and furnished an apartment behind Max’s Barbershop at 8308 S. Kedzie. We were now off to our new home as Mr. and Mrs. Tarasuk.

The day after the wedding, popravina in Polish, we prepared to leave for our honeymoon at the Emerald Beach Resort in the Bahamas. We said goodbye to our parents and were off for 7 days. When we came back it was time to adjust to married life and the reality of new and growing responsibilities.

HOW DO I GET OFF THIS ROLLER COASTER

It was July 1961 and I had just returned from six months active duty... It was time to go to work. Where do I start? First, I went to North American to see about getting my old job back. My former position had been filled and I had the option of being placed in Classification or Underwriting. This was not appealing and I didn’t want to bump the person in my former position. I found a job at Hartford Insurance for $385 a month, a far cry from the $425 previously earned at North American... The job provided no challenge or opportunities and ended within six months. Next stop, ITT Kellogg on Pulaski near Chicago Avenue... It was in accounts payable and paid $425 a month. By 1962 the company was moving, and time to move. I went back to the Employment Agencies. and found Montgomery Ward Catalog at 618 Chicago Avenue. was searching for Merchandiser Trainees, Stock Floor Managers and Traffic Managers. There was a fee attached to the job. The company paid half and the client paid the other half of one month’s pay. I agreed and was hired as a Merchandise Trainee aka Control Buyer / Re-buyer. The $94 weekly salary was paid in cash. Within a year Wards switched to payroll checks and a comprehensive benefit program...

Wards would turn out to be the best hands-on experience I could ever receive. It was worth more than the $200 I paid for the job. I was oriented in all facets of mail order: credit, traffic, stock, buying, shipping receiving etc. After several weeks I was placed in Department 18, Towels and Linens. The former head of the Unit had transferred to the Buying Office and the assistant Richard Warren became manager. Rich was an excellent mentor and we made a good team. I quickly learned the art of forecasting and reordering merchandise. We were responsible for towels, linens, bedspreads, sheets, pillows. Our major suppliers were Cannon Mills, Scranton Linens and Fieldcrest. The January White Sale was our peak selling period. The trick was to order the right amount of merchandise based on catalog layouts and history. Each re-buyer was evaluated on out of stock merchandise called ship laters and/or omissions. At the end of each catalog: Winter, Spring, Fall, Mid Summer or other specials you were evaluated on accumulated overstock. This affected the markdowns or profit/loss you made for the company... The job was to get good turnover, get it in and get it out. I was now an entrepreneur managing a small business with inventories of over three million dollars. It was a fast moving operation where you not only ordered merchandise but managed the receipt of shipments. It was not unusual to run down to the dock, get a dollie and bring boxes up, to fill orders. On my finger I wore a small box cutter to open boxes... You moved and thought quickly... I worked closely with the people on the stock floor to keep on top of things... The ladies had names like: Johnny and Jimmy and were called Trouble Clerks. . They were important cogs in the operation. Everything ran well until Rich took a position in the Buying Office. I felt I had the skills to replace him, I feared his replacement would not have the skills or experience to produce good outcomes. I knew the replacement was no Richard Warren, and I would be dependent on his performance. I didn’t like the situation, so once again it was off to the employment agencies. With my new skills; I quickly found a re-buying position at McMaster Carr, a company that sold mechanical goods through a catalog. The interesting thing about this company was that they stocked little merchandise. The customer would first order than you would buy... The pay was good, including Saturday overtime. The problem arose when the manager stood over a worker’s shoulder to monitor the work or continually observe you from his desk. I felt the Gestapo was watching... Within a month I called my former Ward Unit Manager to see if I could come back... Without hesitation, he said yes.

When I came back, I was assigned to work for Ray in Children’s Wear. I wasn’t fond of
Ray, but we tolerated each other. In a short time I was promoted to manage my own section of Boy’s wear. Department 31.. This would be especially challenging since the seasons were short and volatile. I was responsible for shirts, underwear, boy’s suits, socks and accessories. Sometimes we used middlemen such as Handles man on Michigan Avenue to fill or cover out of stock needs. I can recall an incident when I needed a few white robes for Christmas. I ordered one dozen and the vendor shipped 12 dozen... The vendor wanted me to eat the mistake; there was no way you could sell 144 robes in 100 years. The job required firmness and quick reflexes. In time you learned to predict an accurate amount of merchandise. The trick was timing, to have the stock in and out quickly to produce a good turnover. It was demanding, but challenging. Where could you be responsible for so much and be paid so little? “Only in America.” In three years time, between 1962 and 1965, I was earning about $9000 a year. Then the inevitable happened. It was time to plan Back to School buys. The season was extremely short, two to three weeks... The normal procedure was to split two buys, 50/50. I recommended buying 80% to be delivered just before the season began. I could not picture 50% as sufficient for the first buy. My Unit Manager rejected my plan. So what happened the 50% was quickly exhausted with 50% still 5-10 days away. There was no way to buy or receive sufficient substitutes to meet the demand. I did my best to fill what I could, but the bins were exhausted. My Manager, a graduate of Tuley High School, caught me early one morning and accused me of not doing my job. He felt I had not stayed late to fill orders. I guess he didn’t realize there was no merchandise. This struck a chord and I told him to stick the job where the sun doesn’t shine. I walked out. When I got home I called our superior and told him what had happened and that I quit. In a few days the Budget Manager called me to interview for a position. As I arrived for the interview I discovered that the House Manager had been fired. This was not the time for an interview. The interview turned out to be a slap in the face. Before I left, I asked the Budget Manager why he called me, was it to belittle or discredit me? Was it to test my temper? I did my job, the unfortunate part was that management failed to recognize or understand the intricacies of making smart buys. Policy over-ruled the facts. Maybe the Managers and I learned a lesson on how to manage tempers and make better business decisions.

Whatever the outcome, the experience was invaluable. I learned to work in a stress filled environment which offered tremendous responsibility. I learned to negotiate buys and shipments. I learned to promote overstock thru the Wards Catalog Outlets and became analytical in decision making. Wards offered me the opportunity to go to New York in 1962 or 63 for a buyers meeting... At that time I visited the New York World’s Fair I rode the crowded NY El and watched the hustle and bustle of New Yorkers on their way home. There were no regrets. Wards was my best and most rewarding job between 1960 and 1970...

Again it was time to dust myself off and get back on the roller coaster. Many former Ward employees had gone to Allied Radio which was located on Western Avenue and Washington. After a short break I applied and was hired as a relay re-buyer. The people I knew said they liked Allied and found it less stressful than Wards. The one thing they didn’t know or understand was Herman B. Herman was a nice person but he was a madman. He was to be my manager. As soon as he came to work he would swear and cuss at people. From day one I knew I couldn’t work under Herman’s conditions. The people I worked with were fine but Herman, no way. After a month or so Herman got into an accident and was off recuperating. The place was quite and enjoyable... By that time my decision was made and once again I was in search of a new position. The Agency I went to introduced me to John S , the owner of Landfield Printing. John had been a former print buyer for Brunswick Corp. Somewhere along the way he bought Landfield Printing which was located at 117 W. Harrison. He offered me the position as Assistant to the President. I was to be his right hand man. In fact I was to become his only man. It turned out that John had an office adjacent to Harrison Litho, a large printing company in the same building. John gave the impression that this was his operation. The position paid $600 a month, with the intent to take over the operation in several years. Well that was wishful thinking, because I became a secretary and bookkeeper. John knew I was an officer in the National Guard and felt I had the connections to get large printing contracts. No cigar. In reality John was a broker for printing. He would procure a job from US Gypsum or Brunswick and farm it out to Harrison or Burton Printing. He was a middleman. Within a year, I noticed a change in attitude, and I started a new job search. Before I landed a position John let me go. He said his son was coming to work for him after their Akron Dumont TV venture failed. John told me to write a check for the week and that I was to leave. I told him it would have been fair to give me notice to find a position, I eventually discovered that John was upset that I had taken off for National Guard Riot Duty. This was not hidden; when I applied it was clear about my position in the Guards...I guess if I brought in Guard contracts there would have been no complaints. In January 1967, while working for John, Chicago endured one of its largest snowfalls. It started snowing in the morning and by afternoon traffic had come to a standstill. I asked John if I could leave early, he reluctantly said yes. I was able to take the downtown subway to Chicago Avenue, but nothing was moving, I went back down and took the subway to Division and Milwaukee. I was living with my parents at 4334 W. Iowa Street which was between Augusta and Chicago not far from Division Street. When I got to Division, again nothing was moving. I decided to start walking. I tried calling home, but the phone lines were down or tied up... There was no transportation or communication. I walked to California and Division where I spotted a bus which took me to Division and Pulaski. I again started walking, the snow was knee deep, cars were stranded everywhere. I reached home at 8PM. My father was still not at home. He made it at about 4AM. The next morning I called John and told him I wouldn’t be able to make it because of the 23 inch snow storm. The City was shut down. John didn’t understand the City was closed. He thought I was cheating and should be at work That incident and his initial misinterpretation made it clear that I had made a big mistake.

OK, rack it up as another mistake and let’s get back on the roller coaster. By this time employment agencies had become a thing of the past and my resumes were going out. No one was responding. For awhile it looked hopeless. I had an interview with Reliance Trading Corp. on South Iron Street near Ashland Avenue. I thought the interview went well but never received a call. I called and was invited for a return interview... I talked to the VP, Terry Simmons and found that John S. had given me a bad reference because of my National Guard Duty and who knows what else. I explained to Terry what had happened and he hired me. Reliance Trading was owned by Maurice Goldblatt, one of the founders of Goldblatt. Department Stores. Reliance dealt in marketing artificial flowers, from Hong Kong, through a catalog. My title was Assistant to the VP. Because of my previous experience, at Montgomery Ward, I was able to create a manual inventory control system for the organization. I was paid the same $600 a month. During my 3 years at Reliance I got married and my perspective of work became more serious. The title of Assistant to the VP or President had no value; I needed a career with growth. The computer field was growing and offered new opportunities and the needed growth. At that time colleges were not into computer technology... Automation Institute a subsidiary of Control Data offered a program in RPG, COBOL, BAL, Unit Record and Data Analysis for $1800. I needed the background and experience to enter the field. The program gave me some knowledge, but failed to break any doors down. The school provided no help in job procurement. I found an ad in the Tribune for a Methods Analysts Trainee position at North American. So I left Reliance and returned to North American to begin a career in Data Processing.

It was now 1969 and things had changed at North America. It was owned by CIT, a large Financial Company. The old friends were gone. I was to work for Fred F. to write procedures. There was no formal training or approach to train or prepare for this position. My objective was one year in a DP related title and organization. The business environment did not look good. On top of that my independence and values collided with Fred and the lead programmer John M. John had worked for North American when they were still on unit record. During my employment I was still attending Automation Institute. The organization was very cliquish. You joined or became an outsider... Every morning the discussion centered on sports, you had to know every box score or activity to be a part. Once a month it was the men’s club. This did not appeal or interest me. I wanted to go home and do my own thing... That didn’t sit well. I wasn’t one of the boys. I had my family and school to occupy my time. In 1969 Georgie was born and too celebrate I brought some Whitey White Owl Cigars to hand out. I know they weren’t expensive Havana Cigars, but who would believe the gang wouldn’t take one. This was an insult to a happy occasion. This certainly wasn’t a match created in heaven. To make it worse, I went to a seminar, in a Western Suburb, and instead of returning to work, when it ended at 11, I went by my mother’s to do some work. George Tindall, the big manager, checked on the time and wasn’t happy. It was wrong and I took advantage of the situation. By the end of 1969 I was looking for a new position. I had finished my classes and had gained the needed Data Processing Experience. Fortunately for me I was ahead of the game. By 1970 I was told that I was being let go. Fred didn’t feel I was cut out to become an Analyst, I was suited for Accounting. I found an ad in the Trib for the City of Chicago; they were looking for a System Analysts. After some testing and interviews I was hired. It paid $10,800 with excellent benefits. I gave my notice. The boys didn’t believe it. On my last day with little to fill my time, Fred and John thought it would be appropriate for me to do some filing. They brought a couple of large trays of IBM cards for me to work on. I thought this was the lowest of the low. You thought the cigar incident was insulting. I went to Personnel and explained the situation and stated I was not to be humiliated and wanted to leave. I left North American forever.

From 1960 to 1970 I learned many lessons. I was introduced to the real world. I met many nice people and some not so nice... I learned that things change quickly and contingency plans need to be part of your life. .. A job was a job, not the end to satisfaction or happiness. John S with his self righteous attitude was the biggest disappointment. To bad mouth and hinder someone’s future because they served their country was uncalled for. . John S. and Fred F. must have been very unhappy people if they would intentionally humiliate or belittle someone. On the other hand there were good people like Terry Simmons who offered me money from his pocket, or Richard Warren who shared his knowledge and skills to help me advance. They accepted me for who I was, not who they were or who they thought I should be. .The lessons of those 10 years would shape my behavior and future actions I learned that you didn’t have to sacrifice your values or principles to be a success... I retained my character, dignity and integrity. Money or position was not the ultimate goal in life. I show no malice to anyone, you accept it as part of life, a part of the game. You move on and continue to play, you never give up. My approaches differed from what others desired, but that was me and how I worked or got things done... It was now time to get off the roller coaster and turn the page for new and successful adventures...

LESSONS LEARNED

After graduation I continued working at North American Insurance, 209 S. LaSalle, in the Rookery Building. I still had six months before active duty and the timing was good because several of the ladies in the Limited Accounting Department retired. I was offered the opportunity to manage the section of 8 women. The salary was $425 a month. It was a unique experience to take over an organization that had just lost employees with over 130 years of experience. The position offered an excellent opportunity to supervise and gain managerial experience.

January came and it was time to leave for Fort Benning, Georgia. This time I took a train with a compartment. I wasn’t going to repeat the traveling experience of going by train to Fort Riley. I still hadn’t discovered air travel. Fort Benning was the Home Of The Infantry. Its motto is “Follow Me”. For the next two months I would be attending the Infantry School. I was to be instructed in the skills of becoming a United States Army Infantry Officer. The new officers were housed in dormitories, no more barracks. We had maid service and no GI Parties. We were transported by bus or truck. As an officer you were required to pay for meals, except those in the field. We were paid $425 a month. For breakfast you would go to one of the Officer Mess Halls and off hour meals were served in the Officers Club. The mess halls were named after World War II Battles, Normandy, Salerno etc. I was now an officer and was treated as an officer and gentleman.

The training was excellent. The Training Officers were skilled and energetic. We fired all types of weapons, endured a variety of combat exercises and night maneuvers. Most exercises took us through the briar patches and red clay of Fort Benning. One night we came upon an unexpected fire. The fire was quickly put out preventing a forest fire. One of the most realistic exercises was Escape and Evasion. The objective was to escape from behind enemy lines and return to your unit. We were organized into teams of 4 or 5 men. The exercise required good map reading skills to navigate thru the terrain back home. One member of the team had excellent skills and was our team leader. We made our way through enemy territory that was patrolled by guard dogs, enemy fire and the dense forest at night. Some teams were captured and returned to enemy control. We made our way safely back to friendly territory. It was realistic and exciting.

My most embarrassing moment came when I was to position a jeep mounted 105 recoilless rifle on a hill to support a hypothetical attack problem. It was an exercise which used a helicopter to land the vehicle. I was accompanied by a driver and a Major that observed and graded my actions. I acted stupidly; I relied on what I thought was the drivers past exercise experience instead of my own training to position the weapon. The vehicle got stuck in the mud and had to be towed. The Major’s comment was. “This won’t be your first or last mistake, Lt.” He was right.

My training at Fort Benning ended with the extravaganza at Boom Hill. It was a demonstration of military power that cumulated our training with a big bang. The exercise was viewed by all of the graduating students to end the training program. . This concluded 2 months of training. My next assignment was to report to Fort Leonard Wood as a Training Officer. After a two week furlough I reported to C Company 5th Battalion 3rd Brigade. It was March and cold. Georgia had been warm and comfortable; I even came home with a sun tan. In Missouri we needed Pile Caps, Winter Boots and Warm Lined Jackets. I arrived with three weeks remaining in the training cycle. This meant the troops had already gone through 6 or 7 weeks of training. The Company Commander was Art Wichman and the Executive Officer Lt. Cocoran. Before the end of the cycle Lt. Cocoran was transferred and I became Executive Officer. The major effort was to maintain discipline, train and get the troops to various training sites. My responsibility was to teach drill, PT and Bayonet Training. I especially enjoyed PT and Bayonet Training. It was conducted in a large field from a large stage with a PA system. The sound was awesome. It was like music as you created a rhythm and cadence to the commands. On occasion someone would stop to compliment the spirit of our training. What’s the spirit of the bayonet, “KILL”?

While at Fort Leonard Wood, I encountered a few unforgettable experiences. The first was when the first cycle ended and the troops had left, we failed rifle inspection. The final rifle inspection was a disaster. Along with the Non Commissioned Cadre we had to clean 200 rifles. Lesson learned, every rifle must always be ready for inspection.

The end of every month was payday. As Executive Officer it was my duty to secure the payroll. I was responsible for every penny. We paid cash. Any shortages would come out of my pocket. The procedure was to go to the comptroller’s office and count out and sign for the company’s payroll. Upon return and after breaking down the pay, each member of the company would report, to the Executive Officers Office, to receive pay. The procedure was to enter the room, salute, state your name: “Sir, Lt. Tarasuk, reporting for pay.” Everyone followed the procedure except Mess Sgt, Besseck. Sgt Besseck was a 20 year veteran and came in lazily, with a sloppy salute. I kicked Sgt Bessick out of the office and told him to come back when he was ready to report properly. Sgt. Bessick came back, reported properly, and was paid. He was testing me. Sgt. Bessick became a good friend: from then on I was extremely well fed.

Remember when I was at Benning and the Major said I would make more mistakes. Well, he was right. It was not long after coming to Leonard Wood that one of my assignments was to move the Company from the bivouac area to the Grenade Range. The Company Commander told me the route was the same as going home. Well, I had never gone home and believed that the Sgts knew the way. Wrong again, it was my responsibility to know the route. Just like the placement of the recoilless rifle I was depending on others for actions that where my responsibility. On the way out of camp we turned left instead of right. We left at 7:30 and were to arrive at 8 AM for the scheduled class at 8:30. By 8 I knew we were heading in the wrong direction. The troops were wearing snow boots and loaded down with equipment. By 8:30 we had turned around, too late for training. By this time the command was frantically searching for us. The assumption was that we were in a weapons impact area. A jeep hastily drove up with a Captain asking if I was ever shown a map directing me to the training site. The answer was no. We were in trouble! When we returned to the Company Area the Captain was upset. I along with my Sergeants were debriefed. This incident led to the closing of many ranges and the loss of training time. This was a serious mistake. As Officer In Charge I took full responsibility. We quickly became known as “The Lost Charlie Company”. The seriousness of the incident could have had dire consequences on my career. Fortunately the command was reasonable and forgave my actions. The Major’s prediction had come true and my second lesson was learned. This type of mistake could be made during training but could have had detrimental consequences in combat. In the future I never traveled to a training site unless it was reconnoitered or visited... The troops looked upon that incident as the most exciting moment during their basic training.

After a tough start everything settled down and with a new group of recruits my performance began to change. The mistakes had been made; I now became confident of the environment and knowledgeable of my surroundings. It was time to build a company of combat ready soldiers. I needed to redeem myself. That we did, C5/3 was rated the number one company in the battalion. We were tops in barrack inspections and drill competition. I worked hard and rescued my reputation and confidence. I learned from my mistakes and vowed not to repeat them again. Don’t look back, go forward.

When July rolled around it was time to go home. It was time to begin a new military experience with the Illinois National Guard. Prior to going on active duty I signed with the 1st Battalion 131st Infantry. Its headquarters were located in the armory at Rockwell and Madison Streets. My first assignment was as Weapons Platoon Leader of Company A. Coming out of the Infantry School was like coming out of West Point. Most NG officers received their traing and commissions from the Illinois National Guard’s Officer Candidate School. There was a big difference in training and preparation to serve as a 2nd Lieutenant. This became evident in my relationship with my Company Commander. After a year I was transferred to Captain John Drover’s Company. Drover was organized and a good leader. John was an overall good guy and a pleasure to serve under. John also served as Postmaster for LaGrange Park. In time Ralph Gauer joined the unit and we developed a professional infantry company. Gauer was a graduate of Loyola’s ROTC Program and a Green Beret/Ranger. Ralph had had previous active duty time as an Infantry Officer. After a short time Ralph returned to active duty as a career Intelligence Officer. Ralph became a career officer with expertise in Russian Intelligence and rose to the rank of Colonel. Sgt. Johnny Hon, another member of our unit, also returned to active duty. Sgt. Hon served in Viet Nam and was killed in action.

The 1960’s were plagued by riots. The first riot occurred near a firehouse on Pulaski Road. Someone had been killed by a fire truck which created conditions to set off the riot. The 131st Infantry was called out. We were on duty for 10 days. Nothing happened and we were released. I remember the unit being activated for a march in Cicero. The march was led by Robert Lucas; Mr. Lucas had a permit to march down 22nd street. Because of the racial history of Cicero the authorities feared the worse. We had air support, tanks, snipers on roofs and 2 battalions ready to go. Lucas came with less than 30 marchers. After spending several million dollars and several hours on duty nothing happened and we were released. During the 60’s we had several more Riots and again the 131st Infantry was called too duty. The most memorable was when we were patrolling West Side Alleys and on one occasion we came upon General Kane, the Commander of the Illinois National Guard, and Sun Times Columnist Irv Kupicient. We reported that everything was normal and there were no problems. In 1967 we were called to duty for the Oak Lawn Tornado. This was a compelling story as we patrolled the streets of Oak Lawn to prevent looting. Trucks and buses were turned upside down like toys. The Community High School was ripped in half. It was one of the worse disasters to hit the Chicago area.

In 1966 I was promoted to Captain and became Company Commander and Commandant of Headquarters/ Headquarters Company of the 1st Bn. 131st Infantry. I was fortunate to have an excellent staff of Officers and Non Commissioned Officers to assist me. I was responsible for several million dollars of equipment and property. I oversaw the Motor Pool, Administration, Heavy Weapons Platoon, Food, and Medical. We developed an outstanding company of which we were proud of its accomplishments and men.

I served the 131st until 1968 when I resigned. I made the decision because of the conflict between employment, family life and Guard time. I was getting married in June and felt it was not in the best interest of my family to stay in the military. After resigning from the Guards I still had 6 months to serve and was assigned to a Reserve Unit on 22nd Street. During my time with the Guards I met many interesting and competent people. The most memorable was Vincent Kriemeir. The first time I met Major Kriemeir was after a Monday night drill. I was tending bar and Major Kreimeir wanted to discuss a problem. The Major was looking to buy a steel mill and wanted to talk with someone about his dilemma. At first I didn’t believe it. The next drill I asked Lt. Ed Fleming about the Major. He told me he was real. Major Kreimeir was President of Leakfinder, a company guaranteed to find leaks any where in the world. Lt. Fleming referred me to an article, published in Time Magazine, describing the Major’s invention of Ballite, a material that was stronger than steel. The article described a building, made of Ballite, on the Hawaiian Islands that withstood a hurricane. This material was so good that bullets supposedly bounced off of tanks. Major Kreimeir lived in Ginger Creek in Oak Brook and also asked about buying a jet plane. During a Summer Camp, at Camp McCoy, I spent a lot of time with the Major. I learned that his family were early settlers in Illinois and helped to found many Evangical Organizations. Major Kreimeir was an amazing man. I had hoped that he would be Battalion Commander, but that never happened. During that Summer Camp we ran the Live Fire Exercise, along with Captain Lopez, and received many compliments and commendations for our performance.

There were other people that stick out in my mind: Ed Fleming who became my lawyer and friend. Two former Tuleyites served in the 131st,, Bob Wasilowski and Don Ahrnstrom. As Company Commander I trusted and relied on my First Sgt., Al Malchiodie and Warrant Officer Ed Goniakowski. The Motor Pool was in the good hands of Jim Fucillo. A reliable friend was John Czarnik who tried to talk me out of resigning. I was sort of a mentor to John. John helped me film the story of summer camp 1964. That film and soundtrack was given to the Illinois National Guard Museum in Springfield. John Czarnik was dedicated and enjoyed serving his country; he continued his military education and rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel. A tradition of the 131st was the drinking of gin and bitters to mark the beginning of the day or special occasions. It was a tradition handed down from the English in World War I. After downing a shot of the gin and bitters we would shout “Fire In The Hole.”

After 4 years of High School ROTC, 4 years of College ROTC and 8 years of Reserve and Guard Duty it was time to move on to other challenges and ventures. Thus ended my military career.

CADENCE COUNT

Upon entering the DePaul ROTC Program I found a new and exciting experience. Sergeant Robinson, a friend of Sergeant Dolan, gave me a contact and someone familiar with my background. Military Science was a one credit hour course requiring two actual hours of attendance, one lecture and one drill. Drill classes were conducted on the uptown campus at Sheffield and Webster, across from St. Vincent’s Church. The drill classes were held in the Old Barn. The Barn was the original gym were DePaul played their basketball games and provided memories of George Mikan and the great teams of Coach Ray Meyer. In the 50’s the Barn was replaced, for basketball.by Alumni Hall. Once a week, in uniform, the downtown cadets would take the State Street subway to Sheffield to drill. Sometimes someone would drive, traveling the Outerdrive to the Uptown Campus.

The first year was uneventful except for the time that a cadre asked, “Who wants the First Year Efficiency Medal”. I did not think too much of the approach which had no selection criteria. Gene Sit raised his hand and got the medal. The first two years went by quickly and it was soon time to decide if you wanted to join the Advance Corp. The Advance Corp provided the opportunity to complete two years of training before becoming a U.S. Army Officer. The first requirement was to pass an Army physical, this required going to the Army Induction Center located in downtown Chicago on Congress Street. I had a problem with my blood pressure, it was high, I believe 140 over 80 or 90. I returned for two consecutive days of testing. Since my pressure was consistent I had the option to reject or stay in the program. I selected to stay. In response to my efforts, Colonel John Morgan sent a very nice letter to my mother complimenting me on my desire to enter the Advance Program and become an Army Officer.

The size of the class had dwindled to about 40 or 50 cadets. By this time we had switched from the old wool uniforms to greens. As cadets, we did not wear the officer black stripe trousers or striped sleeves. We purchased regular army hats adorned with the ROTC insignia. For the winter we were issued long grey overcoats. The cadre or instructors were headed by Colonel John Morgan. My mentor was to become Captain Salvatore Fede. Captain Fede was a short man with close cut black hair. He was originally from New York or New Jersey. It was his influence that was to guide me through my Junior and Senior years. Captain Fede replaced Sergeant France as my new friend and mentor.

Shortly after joining the Advanced Corp I became upset with the techniques used to train and motivate cadets. It seemed that the way to motivate, lead and correct mistakes was pushups. “Give Me 10”! I never read that in any Army manual... Leadership is getting people to do things because they want too. You do not punish people for mistakes, you correct them. This philosophy moved me to want to quit. I went to the Uptown Campus to see Colonel Morgan. I was mad. Instead of seeing Colonel Morgan, I was directed to Captain Fede. I voiced my concerns and told him how I felt and that I wanted to quit. Captain Fede, a Psychology Major, sat patiently and listened. When I was finished, he said: “George, I listened to you, now you listen to me”. He was very good, I listened. To solve the problem, Captain Fede advised me that the following week I was to conduct the drill to demonstrate leadership. The following week came and I commanded the drill and demonstrated my approach to leadership and motivatation. My style and command performance eventually earned me the right to command the Junior Cadets. This gave me the responsibility to prepare the juniors for Summer Camp. The class became known as Tarasuk’s Tigers(Give Me A T, Give Me an I etc,What’ve Got –TIGERS, Let me Hear you Growl) and I was also known as “Terrible Tempered Tarasuk” . I was a perfectionist and wanted 110% from my men and gave back 120% for the desired results. I was assisted by Bob Wilhelm. Captain Fede was in charge and with the rest of the DePaul Cadre we molded an outstanding group of future Army Officers. It wasn’t done through push ups, but by creating a high amount of espirit de corp. I was proud that the Junior Class finished 4th or 5th in the Summer Camp of 1960. This meant that a large number of DePaul cadets achieved the award of Distinguished Military Student qualifying them for Regular Army Commissions. This was the best showing in the history of the DePaul Cadet Corp.

During the Junior and Senior year, Military Instruction was taught to prepare the cadets for class presentations... This was to be the most important class to mold my military and teaching skills. I was given two teaching assignments. The first was a presentation on the Transportation Corp. The material was given to you on what and how to teach. It was dry. I had to make it exciting and worthwhile. I spent hours rehearsing and re-rehearsing. All of my mannerisms and actions were rehearsed to perfection. To start, get their attention. Remember Gus Economos? To achieve that, my opening line was:” Today we are going to roll right into our instruction, The Transportation Corp.” My grade was 98. The critique, and rightfully so, was that I was over rehearsed. I was like a machine that lacked flexibility. The good thing was that the mechanics were almost perfect. My second class was on the Middle East and Jordan. In the 50’s it was already predicted that the Middle East would be trouble. Again I rehearsed and rehearsed and bought a map of the Middle East for demonstration. My opening line was “Join me on my magic carpet as we journey to the Middle East”. Again I received a grade in the high 90’s. The biggest compliment was that many compared my skills to that of Colonel Morgan, the model for excellence. This experience provided the skills that would be important in my future teaching endeavors.

After completing junior year,1959, we attended ROTC Summer Camp at Camp Funston in Fort Riley Kansas. It was a 6 week basic training course to prepare for active duty. This would be the first time that I had traveled from home. I took a train from Union Station to Kansas. It was an over night trip. I found the train seat uncomfortable with little opportunity for sleep. When the train arrived, I learned that the station was split, part Kansas City, Missouri and part Kansas City, Kansas. From the station buses were ready to take the cadets to Camp Funston. Once at Camp Funston we were directed to our assigned unit. My unit was C Company 3rd Platoon. Once at our destination we were welcomed by the Sergeant. His first words were:” Welcome to Community Living.” The 40 or more cadets would now share the barracks for sleeping and showering. We would need to work as a team to pass inspections and participate in all training activities. From early morning reveille to the sound of retreat we were together. We learned to fix our bunks with hospital corners, fold our socks and have GI parties. The cadets had come from all over the Midwest: Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Kansas, Nebraska, Ohio etc.


The training ranged from weapons, tactics, communications, map reading, and physical training. We had the opportunity to fire all weapons from the 45 pistol to the 8” Howitzer. We marched to our training sites singing, “JODI WAS THERE WHEN YOU LEFT, CADENCE COUNT”. My favorite was;” SOME MOTHERS HAVE SONS IN THE ARMY, SOME MOTHERS HAVE SONS OVER SEAS, BUT DEAR MOTHER HANG DOWN YOUR STAR BANNER, YOUR SON’S IN THE ROTC – ROTC, ROTC IT SOUNDS LIKE BULL SHIT TO ME ETC.” Saturday morning was parade day. We donned our summer khakis and marched to the parade grounds. It was a thrill marching to the band sounds of the Colonel Boogey or Stars and Stripes. After the parade we normally received a weekend pass. Sometimes we traveled to Manhattan, Kansas or maybe a few of the DePaul Cadets gathered and dined at the Angus Steakhouse. We were always busy. The training was excellent. Most lunches were served in the field. I remember the chicken and mash potatoes, especially on rainy days when it got watered down. Then their was Captain Spitzer, the Mess Officer, making sure that everyone smashed their milk cartons before tossing them in the trash. I had a lot too learn. I never went camping or was exposed to outdoor living. It was a struggle to prepare a horseshoe roll or pitch a tent. I could have done without the outdoor living. Looking back it was a fun. I learned a lot, met many interesting people and survived 6 weeks of basic training.

In the fall it was back to class. As a senior I was promoted to Cadet Major, Charlie Stulga became the Lt. Colonel and commander. After summer camp I received the Distinguished Student Medal which qualified me to become a regular army career officer. Those who did not receive this honor would become Reserve Officers. Because of my leadership qualities I commanded the Junior Drill. During the two years in the Advanced Corp all cadets were paid 90 Cents, per day, or $27 a month. Prior to graduation you were asked to select the branch of the army you wanted to enter. Because of my business education I chose the Quartermaster Corp. Unfortunately, I was not to have a voice in the decision. The cadre knowing my leadership skills selected Infantry. I also had the choice of Regular Army or Reserves. I chose the Reserves because I did not feel comfortable traveling the world for 20 or more years. The Reserve Commission was for 6 months active duty and 7 ½ years Reserve duty. I always thought it was for a total of 7 ½ years. A military career can be very lonely. Based on these choices my orders were to report to the Infantry School at Fort Benning, Ga. On January 7, 1961. After the formal graduation, all graduating cadets went to the Barn to receive their Army Commission. My mother pinned on my Gold Bars. I was now a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army.

PREPARING FOR COLLEGE

High School graduation had ended and it was time to think about starting classes at DePaul University. One of the problems was money. The $500 Youth Foundation Scholarship would help, but it covered a little less than one year’s tuition. I enrolled in the College of Commerce. The 4 year program required 18 semester hours for each freshman and sophomore semester and 15 semester hours for each junior and senior semester... The starting hourly tuition rate was $16 per semester hour and would go up each year. This did not cover books and supplies. To cover the continuing cost, I needed a job. The $500 gave me a jump, but money was needed to cover each coming semester.

In search of summer employment, I scanned the Tribune Want Ads. I was new to the hunt and had no clue on finding a job. Fast food chains were first developing and the opportunities were limited. In the 50’s employment agencies were used to find employment... I was not aware that Employment Agencies were shady. The fee was normally paid by the employer. I picked Monarch and explained my dilemma. They said they could place me, but I could not tell the employer that I would leave in September. I agreed. Monarch sent me on an interview, for a typing position, with a small coffee distributor located near Wrigley Field. My typing skills were minimal, 20wpm, but accurate. They agreed to hire me and pay the fee. My job was to back up a young fellow who did billing and steno work. I can’t remember the salary, but it wasn’t more than $50 a week. I didn’t mention school and they didn’t ask.

I would take the Damen Avenue bus to Irving Park were I jumped on the Ravenswood El to Sheridan. It was a short walk to a store front office. I learned to prepare invoices and purchase orders. In a week or two the other fellow quit. They relied on me to pick up his work. I learned to prepare letters from the Dictaphone. The Dictaphone was a cylinder onto which someone dictated a letter or memo. You would place earphones on your head and listen and type the letter. The desk I used had a slide out typewriter. I remember one day pulling out the typewriter and several roaches came running out. What an eerie, feeling. I got along well with the people, but the day arrived to tell them I was going back to school. They were upset at the actions of the employment agency and that the time had expired for them to get their money back. This was not my first, nor my last experience with employment agencies and job hunting.

September came and it was time to start class. The first two years of commerce were well defined. You knew what classes to take. The first semester classes were Philosophy, Religion, Accounting, Algebra, Economic History, Economics, English, and ROTC. Every male was required to take ROTC for the first two years... Classes normally ran from 8:30 A.M. to 1:30 P.M... Every weekday morning I would walk to the Damen Avenue El Station and take the 15 minute ride to Lake Street. At that time DePaul was located at 64 East Lake in the Pixley Elhers Building. It was an old 16 story office building that accommodated the College of Commerce, Law, Music and Secretarial Schools. A small area was set aside on the 16th floor as a lunch room or lounge. There also was the Pixley cafeteria were the soroties and fraternities congregated. In the cafeteria you would find the pledges, with their funny beanies, catering to upperclassmen. I never joined a fraternity, I had enough problems studying and working, let alone getting someone coffee. In a year DePaul moved to 25 East Jackson.

I quickly found this was not going to be easy. I knew I was in trouble when our Algebra Professor. Barton McLain, on the first day of class, opened the door and threw open the windows. As the days got colder I would sit and shiver. He would write formulas on the board with one hand and erase them with the other. We sat stunned. No one said a word. Many of us paid for our silence by failing the class. The Professor’s philosophy was to weed out the men from the boys. He was successful, 50% of the class flunked, including me. English was another shocker when the assignments came back marked up. I never knew there were so many rules and how many I needed to learn. If it wasn’t for Philosophy, Religion and ROTC I would have been thrown out. The first thought was quit. Fortunately I didn’t quit, I stuck it out. I quickly learned that I was ill prepared. Students from the inner city schools had a disadvantage against the Catholic School students who were much better prepared.

The transition was tough; you had 18 hours of classes and had to keep up with 7 or 8 courses. On top of that I had to ensure there was enough money for tuition. Working through the DePaul Placement Center I quickly found a part-time job at a downtown insurance company. The job was short lived as the company moved to Rogers Park. After that I was hired as a part-time accounting clerk for the North American Accident, Life and Health Insurance Company. North American was located on the 8th floor of the Rookery Building at 209 S. LaSalle Street... I stayed with North American during my four years at DePaul. The schedule was hectic, it included a once a week trip to the uptown campus for ROTC. For lunch I’d walk up 16 flights of stairs to the 16th floor lounge. The elevators were slow and crowded. After class I’d walk to North American and worked 2-3 hours. After work it was off to the el and home. After supper it was study time. No games or TV.

I ended the first year with a 1.8 average. That was almost probation. After the first year I knew more about the professors and the courses. My original choice for a major was accounting, after the first year I reconsidered and changed to marketing... I felt better suited for management and/or marketing. The Professors varied in presentation and effectiveness. The one that impressed me the most was Marketing Professor Gus Economos. Gus brought the class to life with his stories and presence. He walked the room, sat on the desk; legs crossed, and used examples to make a point. He was to be my inspiration on how to teach and gain class attention. The Jesuits were most knowledgeable as they presented the classes in Logic, Religion and Philosophy. Economic Professor James Diamond gave the best advice: “when you graduate, forget everything you learned, the only thing you want to remember is how to think and reason, how to make decisions.” Economic Professor Giganti is remembered for his stories about Umbrella Mike. Umbrella Mike was known as a mob bag man who would go into the Chicago saloons and place his umbrella at the end of the bar where money was dropped. Umbrella Mike then proceeded to other collection spots. Barton McLain was a son of a gun for Alegra, but a completely different person in Business Math. Sometimes reputations are deceiving, both McLain and Economos were known as tough graders, but once you had them you found they were fair and great educators.. The worse professor I can remember was in Accounting 102. The man had a tremendous accounting reputation in foreign countries with all kinds of honors and degrees. When it came to teaching, he sat at the front desk and read from the book. What a waste. When the first year ended I had been transitioned to the world of higher education. It was a grueling experience that would prepare me for the next three years.

Starting DePaul was a new experience in meeting and making new friends. There was no one from Wicker Park or Tuley. The old friends were gone. It was time to make new friends. One of my first contacts was Gene Sit, we met in Accounting. Gene was a great person who dedicated his work to becoming a CPA. We would walk the stairs to the 16th floor for lunch. I doubled with Gene for the first Military Ball. Gene would eventually become a very successful financier with his own investment company in Minneapolis. After the first year I started to make friends with the fellows who would go through the ROTC Program. Charlie Stulga would be the most memorable for his drive and energy. Charlie was very ambitious and always wanted to be number one. In fact when we started ROTC, Charlie told me he would beat me for the top ROTC spot. I wasn’t as determined as Charlie, I just wanted to complete four years of college. One of my best friends was Ed Porlier who I worked with at North American Insurance.

After the first year and finishing the basic English and Math courses my grades started to improve. I did better with the business courses. During my 2nd year I enrolled in Dr. Norman Sigband’s Business Letters class. Dr. Sigband transformed my writing ability. He emphasized the need to be concise and clear. My grades started to go from D’s and C’s to B’s. My emphasis was on Military Science where I earned A’s. During the first year I learned to stay focused.. You work through the problems and learn to correct weaknesses. I regained my competiveness and desire to succeed. Part of the desire was to be stoked by my need to lead. In the next section I’ll discuss the role the ROTC played in developing my leadership and academic skills.

THE EARLY YEARS

Like most people, grammar school had a dramatic influence on my life. It’s your first exposure to new ideas and different types of people. Your teachers set an example for behavior. They provide the guidance and motivation to learn. Your classmates become your friends and some not your friends. As in life you tend to be drawn to certain people and others you keep at a distance. Grammar school becomes your first experience at joining a social community.

In those formative years you learn to get along, to work and play as a team, you follow schedules, learn diversity, competition, follow instructions and gain the academic tools that will prepare you for the experience of life. Quickly you learn new routines and ways to do things. You look to upper classmen for examples and the modeling of your own behavior. Some become role models and you follow their lead in seeking your own niche in school. Pat Coffey and Tom Nievens were excellent students. They were role models who rose to be outstanding students and Mayor of their respective classes. They not only set the example in grammar school but went on to become leaders in high school and college. Pat went on to Schurz and later played Guard on the Michigan State basketball team. Tom played quarterback for Tuley and became a professor of theatre at a small college in Wisconsin.

It was this example that led me to study and seek excellence. It was the basis to excel and compete. I not only wanted all A’s but wanted to be a leader. I worked to be on the Honor Roll, School Judge, Lawyer and a member of the School Council. I became Patrol Captain and Mayor of the 8th grade class. At graduation I starred in the class play. My personality was forming as well as my temperament. I wanted to succeed and to be a leader. I do not believe it was out of arrogance or that I was better than anyone else, but a need to fulfill goals, and ambitions.

Looking back at the quality of public education in the 1940’s I would say it was poor. I liked and respected my teachers, but the curriculum didn’t push excellence and diversity. There was practically no science, and math was limited to the basics. We needed more word problems and a better understanding of what was to come in algebra and geometry. We needed a better explanation as to” why”. English needed to focus more on assigned readings and understanding story lines. We should have had more written assignments to learn to write and express ourselves. The ability to reason and think would have been helpful. These were weaknesses that I had to overcome as I pursued my education.

There were memorable moments to remember such as the many celebrations and performances held in the assembly hall, which doubled as the gym... I remember the cold wintry days on school patrol and the rewards of hot cocoa. The washing of the white patrol belts for Monday inspection. The 8th grade Friday socials which provided the opportunity to learn ballroom and square dancing. In gym we played dodge ball, kick baseball, or played softball or touch football in the spring and Fall When the teacher left the classroom, spitballs and paper planes went flying. After 8 years, it was June 1952 and graduation day arrived. The time had come to leave Wicker Park and move on to Sabin, the freshman Branch for Tuley High School.

Sabin was for freshman and was located on Leavitt Street, a short distance from Hirsch Street and a short walk from 2143 W. Evergreen. It was a place to adjust to high school and gain confidence. For the fellows the major classes were shop and mechanical drawing. Mr., Hitney taught shop where I had the opportunity to make a hammer, soldering iron and sheet metal scooper. In mechanical drawing Mr. Guarino taught us how to read blue prints and the finer points of drawing different things to scale. We were introduced to algebra and geometry. Mrs. King introduced us to English literature and Mr. Jane Polish. At Tuley we had the option to take Gym or ROTC. I chose ROTC. This was to become my guiding force throughout high school.

After the first year at Sabin we went on to the main campus at 1313 N. Claremont. At that time Tuley had many outstanding programs and students. The seniors presented class night, theatrical productions, and were active in a variety of social activities. The Friday night dances were big and the seniors seemed so grown up in presenting a good example to underclassmen. The Tuley football team was outmatched by its opponents and badly beaten throughout the year. They were no match for Austin, a formidable powerhouse in the 40’s and 50’s. By my 2nd or 3rd year the sports programs were reorganized into more equal standings. Tuley went to the Blue Division and by senior year were division champs. Basketball and baseball were also big. Tuley always seemed to do well in baseball. The turnaround in the sports program was a tribute to coaches Tortorelli and Dobrath. In my sophomore year I tried out for basketball. After a few practices, I didn’t feel it was for me, and decided to concentrate on ROTC. In retrospect I feel that I should have been more patient and tried harder. The lesson learned was, don’t give up, give things a chance and work at whatever you undertake, don’t quit...

ROTC was to become my prime interest and challenge. I also focused and worked hard on my academics. I didn’t take the hardest classes; I avoided the sciences and math and focused on business related classes. Maybe I was scared of the material or never found an interest in math or science. Maybe it related back to grammar school and its failure to promote the needed interest in math and the sciences. In many ways I wasn’t properly preparing myself for college and the tools needed to succeed in a more advanced and challenging environment.

I took to ROTC and quickly moved up within the ranks. As in the military you were promoted:, private, corporal, sergeant etc. Sergeant Levi Kangas took a liking to my performance and started to mentor and promote me to become a leader. He believed I had what it would take to go to West Point. When Sergeant Kangas left, Sergeant Lewis France became my mentor. Sergeant France became a friend and encouraged a military career. By the time I completed my sophomore year I had become an officer and by the time I was a Junior I was to become Battalion Commander. This was a big achievement. I commanded 180 to 200 cadets. During my command Tuley was successful in winning District Rifle and Drill Competitions. I can recall winning District Drill Competition at the Madison Street Armory and losing to Lane Tech for the City Championship at the Kedzie Avenue Armory. I worked hard to build a good unit and was disappointed that we did not fare better during the annual spring inspection. Each spring all City ROTC Units were inspected and rated. We would go to Humboldt Park, for several days, and practice drill and ceremonies. It would culminate in the naming of the top ranked ROTC Units, in the city, prior to the Cadet Day Parade. The Cadet Day Parade celebrated the end of the ROTC year with all ROTC Units marching down Michigan Avenue... Prior to the annual inspection Sergeant France was transferred to Lake View High School and Sergeant Dolan took over. The lose of Sergeant France was the worse thing that could have happened. In my mind it cost us the city championship. We just didn’t have the experience and knowledge to win. We did well but failed in the close order squad drill exercise. This was a disappointment and something you have to learn to accept. Again we lost to Lane Tech. During my senior year I tried out for City Staff, competing to become the top Colonel in the City ROTC program. My own evaluation was, that I was socially weak to compete and win this public relations type of position. I was a strong determined leader with a temper for perfection. I did not like to lose. I wanted to win. My High School ROTC experiences would eventually lay the ground work for my future career path into the military.

Senior year was the culmination of four years of hard work and study. I finished number 3 in a class of approximately 180 students. I was constantly on the honor roll receiving scholastic pins throughout my four years. I was awarded a number of ROTC Medals for efficiency as well as from the Tribune and Veterans of Foreign Wars. I ran for class president and lost. This was to prove that I was not destined to become a politician. I did receive a school letter for student activities, being a tour guide, and a member of the Tuley Review Newspaper. During the senior year I received an appointment to the Air Force Academy from 32nd Ward Alderman Joseph Rostenkowski. I wanted to go to West Point but there were no available appointments. I did not feel comfortable competing for the Air Force Academy and skipped the opportunity to take the entrance exam at Chanute Air force Base. Instead I received a $500 Mayor Daley Youth Foundation Scholarship to attend DePaul University. At that time $500 was enough to pay for one year’s tuition.

As a junior/senior there were many social activities that I was able to participate in. One memorable event was the 1955 Howard Miller Youth Rally at the Amphitheatre. Howard Miller was a top disc jokey at WIND Radio and packed the house, ROTC Cadets from a number of city schools acted as ushers. The event featured Pat Boone, Connie Francis, Kingston Trio and most of the top pop artist of the day. In January 1956 I was selected to represent Tuley at a Friday Executive Club Luncheon, it was held at the Merchandise Mart. The guest speaker was Duffy Daugherty, coach of the Michigan State Spartans, who had just participated in the Rose Ball. This was uncomfortable because I went in my ROTC Uniform and was out of place. One of my memorable moments was working with Ms. Paul, the Speech Teacher. I have always had problems with “th’s”,she would have me biting my tongue , teaching me to properly say “with” and ”the” .We had a Veterans Day Performance in which I had a role and her persistence made me good enough to earn a commendation from a school district representative. Leading the ROTC Unit to the beat of the Tuley Drum and Bugle Corp was always a thrill. Prom time was another big event. This was a difficult time because I wasn’t a ladies man and had to find the courage to ask a girl to go to the prom .Prior to the prom I had never gone on a date. This problem of finding a date would plague me throughout college and until I would marry. I guess I was socially shy and my excuse was that I didn’t have the time or interest in girls. School and ambitions were my priority. Finally I asked a girl, a junior, in one of my classes and she said yes. The Prom was held at the Illinois Athletic Club and I doubled with an ROTC friend Donald Ahrstrom. Graduation was on a Thursday Evening in June. .My mother and father attended to see me receive my diploma.