Dale Faelber

Personal Information

Birthplace: Carlton, KS

Service Information

Branch of Service: Army

Unit: 28th Mechanized Calvary Reconnaissance Squadron

Theater of Operation: European

Highest Rank: Staff Sergeant

Honored By: Son - Gary Faelber, Daughters - Carol Schmidt & Barbara Messenger

Biography

Dale Faelber was born on a farm, near Carlton, Kansas. His early education experience was in a one-room schoolhouse in the neighborhood of his home, but he later attended high school in Abilene, Kansas. Faelber tried to enlist in the Air Corps, but his weight was to low. When we returned later, a little heavier, the Air Corps was not accepting any more applicants. Faelber returned home and was eventually drafted into the Army.

Faelber’s basic training was at Fort Riley, Kansas. He did receive additional training at another camp before boarding a train to New York City and then setting sail on the Queen Mary for Europe. His orders were for the 28th Mechanized Calvary Reconnaissance Squadron – with no horses. Their mission regularly included seeking out the enemy’s position.

Faelber had colorful memories of his time with the Recon unit as he explained, “We drove around until we got shot at.” Faelber served from 1944 to 1946. Faelber’s interview includes his first assignment, first hand experiences of his Recon unit, and describing the German SS Troopers.

Faelbers interview took place in Gypsum, Kansas, on December 6, 2023.