Benjamin Leon "Ben" "Benny" Reed (1933-1952)

Returning to Fort Bragg, N.C., after enjoying nine days at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. La Grand Reed in Schneider, "Ben," who enlisted in the Army last January 2nd, sends a new address to his folks and friends at home: Pvt. Benjamin L. Reed RA 16358788, Co. B. 70th Eng. Combat Battn., APO 168 c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.

Mr. and Mrs. LaGrange Reed of Schneider were the recipients of encouraging news from their son, Benny, stationed in Austria. Benny writes that the weather is cold and snowy but they have plenty of warm clothing and good food. Benny is attending high school and enjoying his classes. He enlisted on January 2, 1951, and received his basic training at Fort Bragg. After spending 9 days at home in June, he sailed in July for Austria. Benny will be happy to hear from his friends. Address: Pfc. Benjamin L. Reed RA16358788, Co. B, 70th Eng. Combat Blt., APO 541, c/o PM, New York, N.Y.

With U.S. Force in Austria -- Winter weather added to the realism of "Exercise Frosty," a recent Army field maneuver in Austria which included Pfc. Benjamin L. Reed, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lagrand Reed, of Schneider.

Marked throughout by frequent rain, sleet and snow, the exercise gave Austrian-based American soldiers field training in the actual terrain they are guarding.

U.S. Army units took the roles of both aggressor and defending forces in the problem, which was conducted in the Salzkammergut mountains.

Observers at the operation included Fred Korth, assistant secretary of the Army for manpower and reserve forces, and Lt. Gen. Charles L. Bolte, commanding general of the U.S. Seventh Army.

Reed has been in Austria since August, 1951, and is assigned as an ambulance driver in the 246th Medical Ambulance Company. He entered the Army in January, 1951.