RALPH BERGEN GREB
Ralph Bergen Greb was born 15-Aug 1923 in Chandlerville IL. His parents were Hugo William Greb (1886–1963) and Margaretha H. L. Bergen (1892–1973). Ralph had two siblings: Josephine (1918-1998) and Edwin (1921-1999). According to the 1930 Federal Census, the family lived in Springfield IL at 1911 South 4th St. Ralph was six years old. In 1940, the family was living at the same home; Ralph now 16, was attending Springfield High School in the class of 1941. Ralph played the drums in the band. He was also a member of the “Food Standards, Cafeteria Council.” Ralph completed four years of high school.
Ralph registered for the draft on 26-Jun 1942. He listed his employer as A. J. Barnes, as “Apprentice to Printing Trades” or what was known as a typesetter.
Ralph enlisted in the Army on 18-Feb 1943, at the age of 19. Because Ralph had completed four years of high school and graduated, he was highly desirable to the military and destined to become an officer. He would serve in the Army Air Corps. His service number was 36449310. Ralph attended basic training in Texas, likely Randolph Field outside of San Antonio. In 1943, U.S. Army basic training was standardized at 17 weeks. This was an increase from the previous 13-week program, driven by the need to better prepare soldiers for combat. The 17-week program included increased emphasis on weapons familiarization and other tactical training. Ralph likely completed his basic training in early June. At the end of basic training, Ralph was rated “Marksman” with .45 caliber pistol.
Officer Candidate School
In mid-June 1943, Ralph would have started his abbreviated officer training. During World War II, the standard length of Officer Candidate School (OCS) in the US Army was initially 12 weeks. Beginning in June 1943, the training expanded to 16 weeks.
After his OCS training, Ralph went on to a preflight center and continued to a flying school. His Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) was 1035 Bombardier also known as a “Toggler.”
Ralph went on to serve in the 8th Air Force in the European Theater of Operations during World War II as a replacement crew member.
For more of his story, click on the pdf below.
