A Wealth of Life Experience Francis E. Strotman, oldest son of five siblings, grew up on farms in east central Nebraska. His limited formal education ended in the eighth grade when his father became ill and Francis had to shoulder the family’s farming responsibilities. However, he gained a wealth of life experience, the kind of practical knowledge a man used...

True keepsakes: Two mugs made from shell casings, commemorating the 22nd Bombardment Squadron.

True keepsakes: Views of two mugs made from shell casings, commemorating the 22nd Bombardment Squadron.

Hanging out, probably at Yangkai base, Yunnan. Jay Rosencrantz, on the right, holds pet 'Clarance'. Although called to be men at war, these soldiers were still young, and a boy's best friend was still a comfort and friend even during war. Joseph Siana in middle.

The collector posing on his bunk in the barracks. Likely in Yunnan province. During WWII.

Unknown, Joseph Siana, and Jacob E. Rosencrantz with puppies on bunk in barracks, probably at Yangkai.

"Dick", Robert Fox, and Francis E. Strotman pose in the pine at Yangkai air base, during WWII.

GIs with puppy, probably at Yangkai. S/Sgt Leonard J. Bendinsky sitting holding puppy. Other names maybe Smitty? During WWII.