Bernard W O'Conner
TEC-5 WWII 1942-45
European Theater
Bernard W O’Conner enlisted in to the United States Army November 18, 1942 at Camp Dodge, Iowa. He completed his military service obligation separating with an Honorable discharge December 30, 1945 at Camp Grant, Illinois at the rank of Tec 5. Bernard was qualified as a Sharpshooter on the M1 Rifle and as a Marksman on the W/O3 Rifle while his military occupation was a Truck Driver. He served in Rhineland Central Europe during World War II.
Medals earned. 1 Service Stripe, 2 Overseas Bars, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with 2 Bronze Battle Stars, a Good Conduct Medal, a World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, and a Lapel Button.
A saved newspaper clipping titled “The Stuff of Which Nicknames Are Made” is a must read for all who knew Bernard. With the 102nd Infantry Division in Europe-“Brigadier General Von Oak” answers this divisions mechanized reconnaissance troop pay call to the less ritzy but definitely American name of Corporal Bernard W. O’Conner. His unofficial rank and phony moniker were pinned on him by envious fellow jeep drivers prior to the crossing of the Roer river after O’Conners much dressed-up vehicle produced the hand salutes of countless dismounted GI’s who logically assumed that so fancy a car belonged to no less than a one-star General. In good-natured tribute to the designer of the window-encased doors, slick mud-guards and synchronized electric wind-shield wipers, a brisk “ATTENTION” is called upon “Von Oaks” entrance into a group of his troop buddies. Snappy hand salutes invariably follow.
Bernard W. O’Conner was buried in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Riverside, with full military graveside rites. Graduating from St. Mary’s High School in Riverside, before joining the military. Bernard married Lenore Wagner January 4, 1943 in Iowa City. Bernard farmed near Riverside until 1962, when the family moved to Iowa City. He worked for the Iowa City Community School District for 21 years as Supervisor of Plumbing - retiring in 1987. He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, VFW and the American Legion. Bernard was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great and great-great grandfather. He was a tough Irishman with a quirky sense of humor and a strong sense of family. He was a jack-of-all trades with a very strong work ethic. His children will remember him fondly for never letting them leave the house without a “dime” to call home if they needed a ride. Their Sunday drives in the station wagon always ended with a stop at Dane’s Dairy. He will be greatly missed and loved eternally.
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