Martin enlisted in the Navy on December 11, 1942 to fight in WWII.  He served as a Seabee in New Guinea & the Philippines, building airfields, bases, roads, bridges, etc. The nickname “Seabee” comes from the first letters of the unit’s formal name “Construction Battalion.” The Seabee motto is “We build, We fight.” His rank was MOMM3 (Motor Machinist Mate 3rd Class).  Before he left, he gave his future wife (my Mother) a code list to let her know where he was in the world.  My Adorable Lois – China, My Darling Lois – Australia, My Sweet Dear Lois – North Africa or Mediterranean, etc.  He had 14 codes, but the Philippines was not one of them.  Once discharged, Martin arrived at Navy Pier in Chicago and was met by his mother, Dorothy Clark, and his fiancée, Lois Houchlei (Clark).  

                         - Linda Liedel