Upon returning home from our 157th Regiment reunion
held in Lakewood, CO. in Sept. 1997, I was very much surprised to find a computer, with
all the attachments, set up and ready to go. It was a gift from my daughter and
son-in-law. There was one major problem. I never used a computer. How and where would I
begin? After asking many questions, my grandson, Michael MacDade, age 14, a computer whiz,
came to my rescue. I was told not to worry as he would teach me the basics and get me
started. Needless to say, I was very apprehensive and thought I would never be able to
learn the intricacies of operating a computer. With excellent tutoring from my grandson, I
was able to send and receive email and surf the Internet within a short period of time. I
began searching the Internet for information about the 45th Infantry Division, only to
find the 45th did not have a website and there were very few facts about this great World
War II infantry division. My grandson and I discussed this pathetic situation and decided
to do something about it. In January, 1998, Michael decided to design and establish a
website for his grandfather, to honor the men of the 45th Infantry Division of World War
II. It did not take very long before the website was up and running. It will be in
existence nearly three years and I am very proud of this site and its accomplishments. It
has been responsible for reuniting many people.
One of the most rewarding and happiest events brought about by this website, took place at
our 157th Regiment reunion Sept. 2000, in Philadelphia. Two sisters, not known to each
other at the time, decided to attend the reunion to seek information about their Dad. Not
only did they find information about their Dad, but found each other. This story is a once
in a lifetime occurrence.
This website started with telling of World War II experiences, stories, and pictures of
men in the 45th Division. It has developed into bringing people together through searches.
To this day, Michael MacDade, maintains this website with continued additions, deletions,
and changes. Without this computer whiz there would not be a website. I am a lucky
grandfather to have a gifted grandson. Thank you Michael. You have made many people happy,
including me.Your Granddad,
Al Panebianco
HOME
|
|