National Defense: Two Soldiers | TIME

August 2024 · 1 minute read

TIME

January 6, 1941 12:00 AM GMT-5

When Joe Bezak, 19, of Milwaukee, tried to enlist in the Army two months ago, bad teeth kept him out. Few days later his 15-year-old friend, Harry Wohl-feil Jr., appeared at the recruiting office, said he was Joe Bezak. Sturdy, overgrown (6 ft. 1 in.) Harry Wohlfeil was accepted like a shot, sent to Camp Custer in Michigan. Friend Joe saw him off.

When Father Wohlfeil discovered where his son was, he notified the authorities at Camp Custer. A sergeant called in “Recruit Bezak,” said: “Joe, do you know anyone by the name of Harry Wohlfeil from Milwaukee?”

“I guess that’s me,” said Harry Wohlfeil.

Harry begged to stay in the Army. Mr. & Mrs. Wohlfeil consented. Harry took an intelligence test, showed a remarkable I.Q. (135). Last week the War Department ruled that Harry could keep his uniform, stay with Battery B of the 50th Field Artillery. Home on Christmas leave, Harry congratulated both himself and Joe Bezak. For Joe, his teeth fixed, had joined the Coast Artillery.

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