Herbst, Charles, 1923-2004. Memoir, 1999.

Collection — Half Hollinger box: 01

Identifier: SMHC Collection 0297

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection contains a copy of WWII veteran Charles Herbst’s autobiography, The Teenage Farm Boy Goes Off to WWII, and a one shilling bill known as Japanese Invasion Currency. The autobiography touches on many aspects of Herbst’s life but primarily focuses on his time serving in World War II in the Pacific Theater. There are photographs, maps, and some documents also included in the autobiography that are directly related to Herbst’s service.

Dates

1999

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on use of this collection for research purposes. The researcher assumes full responsibility for observing all copyright, property and libel laws as they apply.

Conditions Governing Use

There are no restrictions on use of this collection for research purposes. The researcher assumes full responsibility for observing all copyright, property and libel laws as they apply.

Biographical / Historical

Charles Herbst was born on September 13, 1923, in Lake Crystal where he lived on a farm with his parents and siblings. He joined the U.S. Army for service in the Pacific Theater during World War II primarily serving with the 163rd Infantry Regiment of the 41st Infantry Division. After returning to Lake Crystal, he married his wife, Jean Sutherland on January 30, 1946, with whom he had four children. He remained in the Lake Crystal his entire life, farming and being involved with church, veterans and civic organizations. He died on November 8, 2004.

Extent

0.10 Cubic Feet (1 Folder)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

The Charles Herbst collection includes an autobiography detailing the life of Charles Herbst, primarily his time serving in World War II, and a one shilling bill known as Japanese Invasion Currency. The memoir is entitled, The Teenage Farm Boy Goes Off to WWII. His account deeply explores his experience throughout training, deployment to Australia, island hopping campaigns, and occupation in Japan before his eventual return to Lake Crystal, Minnesota.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Donated by Barbara Nielson on January 23rd, 2006.

Related Materials

The Charles Albert Herbst Collection is located at the Library of Congress as part of the Veterans History Project, collection number AFC/2001/001/34293.

U.S. Army Unit Records for the 41st Infantry Division, 1943-1945 are located at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library.