Arthur R. Simonson
Era: World War II
Military Branch: Army
Arthur R. Simonson entered the Army on August 5, 1942, at Fort Snelling, Minnesota. Home at entry: Buhl, Minnesota.
He served as a First Sergeant and administrative NCO with the 443rd Engineer Base Depot Company in the China-Burma-India Theater.
Notes from veteran's wife: "Art served in the CBI supplying American troops and airmen in China with equipment and supplies by way of the Burma Road.
"He also assisted in entertainment of the servicemen by conducting radio shows and stage shows, which sometimes included stars such as Tony Bennett and a show entitled 'Rupees Away.'
"While in India, he took many impressive photographs showing temples, the Taj Mahal and noting the extreme poverty."
He received the following: Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and four overseas service bars.
He was honorably discharged on February 4, 1946, at Camp McCoy, Wisconsin.
Source: Hometown Heroes: The Saint Louis County World War II Project, 294.
