How does a 25-year-old former
World War II reserve infantryman react when
he gets recalled to active duty during the Korean conflict? If you were like
me you panic!
Grief turned to mild relief when I learned I was to be posted to White Sands
Proving Ground (WSPG), New Mexico. It's now known as White Sands Missile Range.
The assignment turned out to be one of the most interesting experiences of my
life and I treasure it to this day.
The unit I joined, which few have ever heard of, was the V-2 Section, 1st Ordnance
Guided Missile Support Battalion, U.S. Army. The 1st OGMS Bn was our work assignment,
however for administrative purposes, pay, housing, etc. we belonged to the 9393rd
Technical Service Unit.
The V-2 Section was formed in January 1951 and was comprised of approximately 35
draftees, reservists and regular Army personnel. Lt. Allen C. Metzger was in charge,
with the enlisted grades ranging from Master Sergeants to Pfcs., most were in their
early twenties and with scientific and engineering backgrounds.
The V-2 Section
(Photo: Crouch)
The Section's mission was to assume the duties of assembling, testing and launching
German V-2 rockets (the spoils of war). The V-2 was known as the A-4 to the Germans.
