Yesterday the staff at Governors Island National Monument uploaded my video tribute to Merle David Hay. I say “my” video but really it was a team effort. I wrote and narrated the text. Before we videotaped one of the rangers reviewed the draft and added some valuable insights and recommendations. He and another ranger also forwarded along some images to go with the ones I had. Their contributions greatly added to the final cut.
We shot it over three consecutive Sunday mornings in July. It is amazing the work that goes into a four minute clip. Finally one of the summer interns edited the footage. Needless to say, his technical skills are considerably greater than mine. It would not look as good as it does without his hard work. I could not embed it so one will have to click here to watch. Please note that any mistakes are mine alone. We are hoping to do more of these as the WW1 centennial continues. Merle Hay was one of the first three American to have been killed in the First World War. I hope the video is worthy of his memory. It is just one of the stories one will hear at Governors Island.
Here is the link once more. Enjoy.
The Strawfoot 
Keith Muchowski,
A snappy salute to you and the team.
The video is well done, informal, brief and nicely edited.
I produce travel adventure documentary’s and appreciate your comments about time and work to produce programs; doubly so when they are short.
Your services at Govenor’s Island are without doubt greatly appreciated.
Ah, memories the 16th Infantry of the big Red One.
I grew up in New Jersey.
When I was 17 I qualified to attend, at Camp Dix, a 30 day first year CMTC Infantry training course.
16th Infantry provided the training cadre.
It was a hot July in 1938. Being tall I was the guide-on, Company L.
Officers were reservist doing their 2 week stint.
On reporting Sunday afternoon and receiving uniforms we formed up in the Company Street .
Captain Johnson introduced himself, Lt. Jackson and 16th Inf. Sergeant……yes,….Jesus.
WE couldn’t help ourselves. It was somewhat stiffened but still, it was a laugh.
Needless to say the sergeant proved to be a good sport and very helpful.
Monday morning at 6AM the 16th Inf. Band came marching down the street playing “Roll Out the Barrel”
Thus began my 16th Inf. Memory.
In 1939 the 2nd World War began. CMTC was discontinued. With memories of those 30 days in the hot pine woods of Camp Dix I made sure I served in the Army Air Forces. I flew in the 9th AF in Europe.
That’s my 16th Infantry story…..one never forgets.
Stan Walsh
Stan, thank you for the kind words regarding the video. We had a lot of fun putting it together. It is so important to tell these stories.
Speaking of stories: thanks for sharing yours about the 16th and Camp Dix. It sounds like it was an amazing time. Alas you missed out on the Big Red One during the war, but I’ll bet flying with the Army Air Forces was an unforgettable experience in its own right.
Best,
Keith
THANK YOU for your blog post and video. I am continually amazed at the facts you bring to life about the first World War. I am going to include the information in my upcoming book. Hope to get it published by the anniversary of Pvt. Hay’s death.