HubackerErnest

Jamestown (CSi) A fundraising effort in Jamestown is progressing well, as local veterans’ groups and community members are donating dollars to send a World War II vet to a reunion with his former unit.

On Thursday’s Wayne Byers Show on CSi Cable 2,  LeRoy Wegenast, All Vets Club Board Chairman, said the dollars raised will send 98 year old Ernest Hubacker, to the reunion of Merrill’s Marauders and the Mars Task Force in Milwaukee at the end of August.

Wegenast said so far about $1,000 has been raised toward the $1,700 needed to cover expenses for Ernie and a family member to attend the reunion, in Milwaukee.

Wegenast pointed out that airline arrangements have been made, and Ernie will also  tour the Harley-Davidson Plant in Milwaukee during the trip.

Ernie will turn 99 about a month after he returns from the reunion.

Wegenast added,  anyone wishing to contribute to the fund may do so by dropping off donations at the All Vets Club in Jamestown. Checks can be made payable to The All Vets Club with a notation “Ernie’s Trip.”  Or drop off donations at Lifestyle Appliance in Jamestown.

He said any funds raised above the $1,700 will go to the Daily Bread program in Jamestown

Ernie remains active in the community volunteering at the All Vets Club and the Jamestown Regional Medical Center.

Hubacker’s duty with the Mars Task Force included time in the hills above the Burma Road. He and other members of the unit would call in artillery if Japanese vehicles attempted to use the road. They were also the targets of Japanese artillery.

More information on the units by clicking on the link in the story posted on line at CsiNewsNow.com

On another topic, Wegenast added that the All Vets Club has hired a new manager, as Jon Beyer is leaving to pursue other opportunities.

Wegenast said, during Beyer’s tenure as manager, the All Vets Club has seen increased patronage, and has included new menu items and is offering entertainment.  The facility also has rentals for groups and organizations.

The next public fundraising for the All Vets Club will be coming up this fall.