May 1944

SOULÉ SALUTE IRON AND STEEL SS CO PRODUCTS

Photo: THE CHAMPAGNE BACKFIRES AS MRS. LEE SOULÉ CHRISTENS U. S. NAVY'S YSD #60

VOL. 2, NO. 1 Published Regularly by and for Soule Steel War Workers MAY, 1944

Soule' Salute

**SOULE SALUTE** Vol. 2 No. 1 Published Regularly by and for Soule Steel War Workers

Staff: Managing Editor . . . . George Cobb Los Angeles Editor . . . Bill Irwin Portland Editor . . . . . Les Poole San Francisco Editor, Fred Kappelman

Associate Editors: Los Angeles San Francisco Art Carter Peter F. Culcasi Eddie Dugan Paul Hyner Ted Jones Peter Padilla Charles La Fevre Joe Romero Dorothy Olsen Marion Sheehy George Thomas

Portland Torrance John Vaile A. M. Dowell

Assembly Line ## OF NEWS ABOUT OUR PEOPLE

CAMILLE BOUX, in charge of the night crew of the Lighter Department at the San Francisco Yard, recently enrolled in the Volunteer Port Security Force of the Coast Guard. After finishing the prescribed lecture course, Camille took the required examination. One question dealt with the method of lightering cargoes to and from ships and ended with . . . "they are Barges, Scows and ———." To have answered correctly, Camille should have inserted the word "Lighters." After pondering over the question for some time he just couldn't think of the word and passed it by. Working on the night shift, how was he to remember about them during the day? However, we are told that after leaving the place of examination he remembered and returned to fill in the word "Lighter."

Your Portland Editor just received a letter from GENE EDMONDSON, and guess what? His address is now: GENE R. EDMONSON, S 2/c Photo School Class 9-44 Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida

It looks as though Gene is going up in the world to look down on the world. Good luck, Gene, we're right behind you.

ED ANDREWS and CLIFTON HYATT, of the Portland Plant, are both feeling better these days. Mrs. Andrews and Mrs. Hyatt are both on the road to recovery following recent illnesses. We wish to express happiness at the good news.

The San Francisco Main Plant and the Islais Creek Yard are "a-feudin." PAUL HYNER of the Lighter Department and PETE CULCASI of the Creek are the "gun toters." The duel is over a "still." Not of the moonshiner type, but as to who is STILL the champion in burning, cutting, etc. Read the Soule Salute for statements from the "feuders."

Our Portland "Good Loser Club" now has two members. JACK McCULLOUGH joins hands with MELVIN BOWMAN as an outstanding good loser. Anyone can be a good winner but it takes real sporting blood to make a good loser.

Uncle Whiskers has been rather busy around the Portland Plant. JAMES CREPEAU took his examination and passed with flying colors. MELVIN BOWMAN and LEWIS VANDERHOOF are both scheduled for early examinations.

May Day will soon be here. May 1st is the day when the children exchange May Baskets filled with brightly colored flowers and festivities, including a dance around a May Pole, are the order of the day. In ancient times the Romans held a festival in honor of Flora, the Goddess of Flowers, on May 1st. This day holds still further significance for your Portland Editor, LES POOLE and Portland Branch Manager, OTTO GRAY. They both celebrate wedding anniversaries on May 1st. For MELVIN BOWMAN May 1st means another milestone and another birthday celebration.

Spring seems to be a favorite season for birthdays. We find the following dates in our Portland files.

WILLIAM LEFFERSON . . . March 5 EDWARD ANDREWS . . . . March 6 LES POOLE . . . . . . . March 7 WILSON PITTMAN . . . . March 21 RODNEY NEWMAN . . . . March 25 ANDREW MAYERS . . . . April 12 MELVIN BOWMAN . . . . May 1 PAUL WEBER . . . . . . May 21 LLOYD GULLICKSON . . . May 30

In a moment of weakness we promised GLADYS LYM of the San Francisco Office Accounting Department we would not write about the ring she is wearing on her left hand, third finger. But we can say that anyone entering her department had better wear welder's glasses or report to first aid for "Flash." The lucky chap who presented her with it is one of our fine lads in Army uniform.

It looks like JOHNNY MIHALEK, operator of the big lathe in the San Francisco Machine and Die shop, found some spare time to turn out a ring. The young lady wearing it is KATHERINE HOLLINGER who is regarded as one of the best welders in the Lighter Department. The entire company wishes them both all the happiness in the world.

The night shift of the San Francisco Plant has been heard from . . . at last. We received an article from an anonymous contributor advising us there is a night shift and referring to it as "A Forgotten Battalion." No, you are not forgotten, just not heard from. We have appealed many times, editorially, for contributions but until now no one from your shift responded. Will the party who wrote the article, signed "The Night Shift, A Forgotten Battalion" consider himself on the staff, make his identity known and send in articles of personalities and incidents occuring on his shift? Thanks.

The Red Cross drive in the Portland Plant went over the top with a rush. An average nearly $8.00 each was collected from the employees. Surely our boys in Uncle Sam's service appreciate such support.

2

Triple ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONIES

By F. W. KAPPELMAN

With a beautiful spring morning, music playing, flags flying, bunting all around and crowds gathering on the "lot," all that was lacking in making the occasion a "Circus Day" was the cry of "barkers" and "spielers." Although the "Triple Achievement Ceremonies" were festive, there was a serious vein in the event which was held March 21, at the Islais Creek Yard and at the new San Francisco Plant Cafeteria.

The occasion was named "Triple Achievement Ceremonies" because it honored the launching of the U.S.S. YSD 60, the launching of the LCM, "Spirit of California," and the opening of the new Cafeteria.

At 9:45 A. M. everyone was released from work to go to the Islais Creek Yard. At precisely 10 o'clock, Geo. L. Cobb, as Chairman of the Day, welcomed all to the celebration of the three important events. He then introduced Peter F. Culcasi, a member of the crew of the YSD Yard, Associate Editor of Soule Salute, and Editorial Representative of the Yard. The theme of "Pete's" talk was one of our accomplishment, despite handicaps and hardships, in making this occasion possible. A reprint of his speech appears in another column.

Lt. Edwin D. Ashton, U. S. N. R., was introduced. He spoke of action he had seen and the importance of our work here. Lt. Ashton had just returned from the front lines where Navy ships were performing the tasks for which they are built. As gunnery officer aboard the cruiser U. S. S. Helena in South Pacific actions, Lt. Ashton had much of interest to tell.

Highlighting the ceremonies, Mrs. Lee Soulé cracked the bottle of champagne against the bow of the YSD-60. Mrs. Charles S. Wheeler acted as the Matron of Honor.

As the YSD-60 slid into the water, vessels in the immediate vicinity sounded their whistles and "dressed ship." When the YSD-60 reached mid-stream, it was taken in tow by a Soulé tug (an LCM), and was warped to the wharf. On her decks, stood Clarence Fix, Superintendent of the YSD Yard, a proud man, as he saw what he and the men of the yard had accomplished.

Then came Part Two of the "Triple Achievement Ceremonies" . . . at the LCM launching ways. Chairman Cobb introduced Paul Hyner, also an Associate Editor and long an upholder, editorially speaking, of the Lighter Department. He explained his talk "And the People Answered" by referring to the call that went out to people for workers for war materials . . . and how peoples of all walks and positions answered. His complete speech appears elsewhere in this issue.

Mr. Edw. L. Soulé, President of Soulé Steel Company, explained the selection of the name, "Spirit of California" for the LCM about to be launched. He said that carved in the stone of the State Building in Sacramento are the words "Bring me men to match our mountains" . . . a ringing challenge for Californians. Since the days of the Covered Wagon and Clipper Ship, this spirit of California has stood for getting things done. He related how he had never forgotten the stories his mother told him of her arrival in California in 1861 after facing hardships of the overland trail — and the undying spirit with which the problems of those days were met. He added that the building of our two great San Francisco bridges again demonstrated the spirit of accomplishing the impossible . . . and that our own achievement in winning the coveted Army-Navy "E" was another example of this spirit.

The dauntless spirit of—dig in

—work together—get things done—was reflected in the celebration of these triple events. Mr. Soulé said that the accomplishment of the plant men was matched by the co-workers of the "open spaces" who came through magnificently with the launching of the first YSD. "Working against odds, you men of the Yard deserve great credit and the applause of all your fellow workers, Let's give them a hand." And the co-workers gave them two hands.

Mr. Soulé continued by saying the third event of the three-star celebration was one in which all could share . . . both in accomplishment and perpetual enjoyment . . . the launching of the "S.S. Sup-ship," the beautiful enlarged cafeteria which would fill a long-felt need in plant equipment.

(Continued on page 7, column 2)

Photo: George Cobb opens ceremonies at the launching of LCM "Spirit of California."

S. NAVY YSD 60

U. S. YSD 60 GOE

By PETER F. CULCASI

With the smashing of the champagne bottle against her bow . . . Mrs. Lee Soulé officiating, the queen of Islais Creek Yard YSD No. 60 made her debut as an ocean-going vessel. Graciously and noiselessly she slid into the smooth waters which awaited her. It was exactly 10:24 by my clock. As usual Charlie Hoss' gang made everything look easy.

The long awaited moment had finally come and she certainly looked like a true queen as she waited on the waters around her. I, like the rest of the audience, just stared at her beauty and expressed my admiration with them . . . for she was indeed a dream come true.

Mr. George Cobb was an excellent and masterful master of ceremonies and introduced the speakers . . . yours truly . . . and Lieut. Edwin Ashton, speaker of the day, who gave a very personal and interesting account of his experiences in action. Then Mrs. Lee Soulé proceeded—ahem —to somewhat excitedly bathe YSD No. 60 in champagne and send it on its way.

In all it was a very gala event . . . certainly one to be remembered . . . a source of pride to all those who worked on the boat. This was their assurance of a definite contribution to a successful termination of the war. Hats off to you Clarence Fix, to you Al Firpo, and the rest of the YSD gang!

***

**What We Have Accomplished** Peter F. Culcasi's address at the launching of YSD No. 60

Honorary chairmen, honored guests, fellow workers, this is indeed a very momentous occasion — a moment which we have looked forward to for a long time. It is with great pleasure and honor that I address you on this

*Photo: Peter F. Culcasi delivers his address to Soulé employees from speakers' platform at the launching of U. S. Navy's YSD No. 60.*

*Photo: U. S. Navy YSD No. 60 slides easily, gracefully down the ways as whistles from nearby ships give her a rousing welcome.*

*Photo: Out in the stream the Navy's YSD No. 60 takes her place as an important unit in Uncle Sam's fleet.*

Soule' Salute

...S. NAVY'S YSD # 60 # ...ES DOWN THE WAYS

grand occasion—the launching of the first YSD boat. It was in May of 1943 that we first came to Islais Creek to build Navy YSD boats and, as you will recall, the very ground on which you are now standing as well as the rest of this huge lot, was nothing but mud and debris. But that was only one of a thousand problems that was confronted, for example: ways had to be constructed; warehouses and roads built; materials and tools assembled; men recruited; and this seemingly huge mud hole cleared in its entirety of all its debris and mud. One by one, however, these problems no longer existed. But to me it seems that almost overnight a shipyard—one that old house and send off ocean-going vessels—emerged miraculously from the nothingness that was once here. Yes—it was not quite a year ago that we first began work and we have indeed made good progress since that time, the results of this amazing progress being manifested here before you today. We here at Islais Creek are very proud of our achievements for now we can truly and honestly call ourselves shipbuilders. We are equally proud of our teamwork behind Clarence Fix, on whose broad shoulders the burden and responsibilities of this new enterprise rested. There can be no doubt in anyone's mind that he has distinguished himself as a capable leader for if we look back through the months gone by we can well appreciate the fact that his was a difficult task. But behind this remarkable story is a tale that comes perhaps with every new enterprise: a tale of unlimited effort; of detailed planning; of a certain shedding of sweat and blood; of toil; and perhaps tears. Now that he must be the proudest man here today and I also know that he is very proud of the men that worked under his leadership; that stuck behind him dur-

ing those very difficult hours, and I take this opportunity of thanking each and every one of you for him. This is not the end—this is merely the beginning — for no man knows when the last hour of the war will come. We must continue working hard. We must continue building ships—more ships and still more ships, day in and day out without let up, for no matter how difficult our efforts may seem, in comparison to the sacrifices and heroism that our servicemen are displaying all over the world, it is but a small contribution we are making. In closing let me express our appreciation to all those at our main plant who unselfishly lent their aid and skill to us when we needed it. To Teddy, Roy, and their gangs; the Die Shop; the Maintenance Department; and especially to Charlie Hoss and his gang, for without the aid and support of this hard-working crew which labored long hours preparing the ways for launching, the complete success of this event would be in doubt. GODSPEED YSD No. 60 . . . and BON VOYAGE!

Photo: George Cobb, Chairman of the Day for the Triple Achievement Program. Photo: Speaker of the Day, Lieut. Edwin D. Ashton, USNR. Photo: Mrs. Lee Soule, Sponsor of the YSD No. 60 and her Matron of Honor Mrs. Charles S. Wheeler, III, just prior to cracking the bottle.

* * * Soule' Salute * * *

"Spirit of California". ## ANOTHER LCM FOR UNCLE SAM'S FLEET

"And the People Answered" The address of Paul Hyner at the launching of Lighter "Spirit of California"

On December 6, 1941, the United States of America was a nation at peace with the world. Forty-eight hours later, this nation found herself plunged into hercest warfare, facing three enemy empires on two continents, with almost two hundred million inhabitants. In December, 1941, the United States, totally unprepared, faced a foe that had been turning and gearing for war for twenty years. It was not—"a difficult situation"—in which our country found herself. Rather, it was a desperate struggle for life itself—for in that supreme crisis of her career—death hovered close.

Nothing short of a miracle would suffice—nothing short of a miracle could erase Pearl Harbor—could bolster our Allies—could halt the tide that threatened us.

In that hour, a call, pure and simple, went out to the people of the land. And—in their own way the people answered. They turned from their "way of life" in order to preserve that "way of life." They took up arms. They took up tools.

The company for which we work is in itself a striking example of the 'people's answer. Two years ago, this tiny section of America was asked to build boats. It had never built boats before. But with life at stake, we find ourselves doing things never done before.

And so—those here turned—just as all America was turning at first, they had to grope a little —everyone did—but, nevertheless, they went on — they went forward, and slowly, but surely, the miracle began to shape itself . . . here, and throughout the breadth of the land.

Today we know that the tide has at last begun to turn. We know the call has been answered. Words—are only words, after all, and those I have spoken have been spoken so often and so much better before. Words were not the answer two years ago. But that boat lying there, the boats before it, and the ones that will come after—they are the answer. And there is a flag—an Army-Navy flag flying over our plant. And that is the answer, too.

* * *

MR. SOULÉ'S SPEECH Mr. Chairman, Fellow War Workers, Guests:

Carved in the stone of the State Building in Sacramento are the words, "Bring me men to match our mountains," a ringing challenge for Californians. Since the days of the Covered Wagon and Clipper Ship, this Spirit of California has stood for getting things done. I have never forgotten the stories my mother told me of her arrival in California in 1861 after facing the hardships of the overland trail — the undying spirit with which the problems of those days were met.

The building of our two great bridges, challenging the imagination and admiration of the entire world, again demonstrated this spirit of accomplishing the impossible. Our own achievement in overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles to win the coveted Army-Navy "E" for outstanding performance is another example of this spirit.

Today we are celebrating a

Photo: Paul Hyner delivers address to his co-workers.

Photo: "Put that bottle down, Camille . . . the champagne's on the LCM." Mrs. C. J. Boux, Sponsor, Mrs. Verne Simpson, Matron of Honor, and Camille Boux watch the "Spirit of California" slide down the ways.

Photo: Edw. L. Soule ". . . dig in, work together, get things done."

Soule' Sal

triple achievement here at Soule Steel which again reflects this dauntless spirit of *dig in . . . work together . . . get things done!* Matching the accomplishments of our plant men, our co-workers of the "open spaces" have come through magnificently with the launching of our first YSD. Working against odds, you men of the Yard deserve great credit and the applause of all your fellow workers. Let's give them a hand!

The second rung on our ladder of achievement climbed today is the launching of our Triple X invasion craft which has been appropriately named the "Spirit of California." This marks another milestone in the creation of the Soule fleet of "Bridges to Victory."

The third event in this three-star celebration is one in which we all can share, both in its accomplishment and in its perpetual enjoyment, the launching of the "S.S. Sup-ship," our beautiful enlarged cafeteria, which will fill a long-felt need in our plant equipment.

As we mark this triple achievement, let us pause a moment to pay tribute to that one big factor that has made all three possible . . . the spirit of co-operation . . . of working together . . . teamwork. This is the spirit of California . . . the spirit of Soule Steel.

In expressing my gratitude to all of my co-workers, I must remind you that the task of winning the war is still a gigantic one that challenges the best in all of us. We will, we must, meet this challenge with the same kind of teamwork that has characterized our performance in the past, the same teamwork our Armed Forces are displaying so valiantly in the field.

And when that Day has arrived, and Victory is won, we can all face the task of reconversion to peacetime operations, secure in the knowledge that no matter how tough the problem, we can meet it with the same power of united effort and common purpose that has made possible these achievements we celebrate today.

In the meantime, let us carry on the true spirit of California . . . *in, work together, get things done*, in order that a world may be set free and America be kept free!

NOTICE

In order to facilitate the distribution of the Soule Salute to employees of the San Francisco Office, Plant and Yard, the Salute will be mailed to homes each month.

On the day of mailing, a notice will appear on the Bulletin Boards and anyone not receiving their copy or desiring additional copies can get them from the guard house at either the Main Plant or Islais Creek Yard.

LOST

"Tex" Ferguson has lost five food ration books. If anyone can supply information which will lead to the recovery of these books it will be greatly appreciated by both "Tex" and the management.

ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONIES *(Continued from page 3)*

In expressing gratitude to all his co-workers, Mr. Soulé reminded them the task of winning the war is still a gigantic one that challenges the best in all—and that all would and must meet this challenge with the same kind of teamwork that characterized performances in the past—and the same teamwork our Armed Forces are displaying so valiantly in the field.

The LCM, "Spirit of California," was then sent down the ways with Mrs. C. J. Boux cracking the champagne bottle. Mrs. Verne Simpson acted as her Matron of Honor.

Part three of the program found everyone assembled in front of the new cafeteria. Charlie Hoss; genial Superintendent of Construction, proudly turned the key over to Mr. N. O. Millar, Secretary-Treasurer of Soule Steel Company, who in turn, presented the key to Henry Scheiler, Manager of the Cafeteria. Mr. Scheiler opened the door of the new cafeteria. Joe Romero tells you about the menu served those attending the ceremonies in an article in this issue.

Thus ended the "Triple Achievement Ceremonies". . . an occasion long to be remembered by those who participated. Congratulations to George Cobb who did a fine job as Chairman of the Day.

Man of the Month

In this issue we present truly a Man of the Month. In fact he could almost be classed as a Man of the Year. We present Clarence Fix, the genial, efficient superintendent of Islais Creek Yard.

Clarence started with this company in 1921 as a crane operator, became a shear cutter and bender man. Later he went into the Torrance office as bookkeeper and then to the shipping office.

In 1927, Clarence came to the San Francisco plant as superintendent. When the Islais Creek yard was started, Clarence was put in charge of building the YSD's. It was a far cry from turning out cut and bent reinforcing bars to the building of ocean-going ships. Clarence, with the theme of "And the People Answered," overcame obstacles, gathered a crew of loyal and efficient men and proved his capabilities by turning out the YSD No. 60, a fine ocean-going Naval vessel.

Clarence is married and has a son twelve years of age and a daughter eight . . . and he is a mighty proud father. When asked about his hobby he pointed to the YSD's on the ways. We are informed by another source, however, that Clarence is very much interested in raising chickens.

We are proud to salute you Clarence . . . congratulate you on your performance and wish you continued success in the future.

DID YOU KNOW? By JOE ROMERO

That CLARENCE FIX, Superintendent of Islais Creek Yard, was at one time a truck driver for this company? And was, before this War Program, in charge of the plant end of the Reinforcing, Merchant and Fabricating Departments? Whata man!

That the crane now being operated by ETHEL RUDMAN, was once operated from the floor by long ropes?

That CHARLIE REUSER, who fills the orders for the Merchant Department, at one time worked for Leavitt and Bill as a bicycle repairman? Keep pedaling Charles, you will get there.

(Continued on page 8, column 4)

Photo: Los Angeles sunshine might be responsible for that warm smile which belongs to Miss Cora Lear, new Registered Nurse who holds forte at newly-equipped First Aid Room in the Los Angeles plant Cafeteria Building. She takes care of all the minor injuries and dispenses vitamin pills . . . so go to her if you would LEARN about FIRST AID.

Soule' Salute

Gala Opening ## OF SAN FRANCISCO'S ## NEW CAFETERIA By JOE ROMERO

Folks, this was the day everyone was waiting for—the opening of the new San Francisco Plant Cafeteria.

George Cobb began the ceremonies by introducing Mr. N. O. Millar, treasurer of the company, who dedicated the cafeteria and presented it to the employees of Soule Steel Company for them to enjoy.

The key was given to Mr. Millar by Charles Hoss, one of the many who participated in the construction. After the door was opened, the key was turned over to the cafeteria manager, Henry

Scheiler, who seemed very proud on this momentous occasion.

The next step was one that brought delight to everyone—the filing-in to partake of the first lunch to be served in one of the largest in-plant cafeterias in the country. What a spread! Yes sir! Here it is: First of all, there was tasty cottage cheese and pear salad, then vegetable soup, turkey a-la-King with a cream sauce that was terrific, French rolls, pies, cakes, and milk or coffee.

Now that the cafeteria has been officially opened, I am sure a maximum amount of quality will be maintained, at a just price, and the health and nutrition of the men and women working in this war plant will be assured.

To those of you who were not fortunate enough to witness this event and see for yourselves, I would like to give you a general idea of the structure of our cafeteria and its facilities.

Practically all of the materials

used in the construction were from our own plant. Before the exterior was cement plastered, it was sound-proofed with a two-inch thermax board.

Now let's have a peek inside this cafeteria. First, the kitchen—a beautiful thing to behold, done in sky-blue and trimmed in white, with space galore. There is a large cooking range, walk-into-and-out-of ice box, which is electrically refrigerated, a meat slicing machine, meat grinder, chopping block—in other words, the last thing in cooking facilities. The kitchen is flanked on both sides with all the necessities to completely provide it. One side has a large store room with all the provisions, and on the other side is a room which would undoubtedly bring joy to any housewife, with a large dish washing machine—yes sir—no soiled hands here!

O. K.—now follow me into the main dining room. This is really something! A 54-foot serving counter with steam insert pots on both sides, and cold troughs for sodas and salads, etc. There are large coffee urns in the center, where the cashier is located. This counter is accessible from both sides to avoid congestion in handling a large crowd. Incidentally, the seating capacity is over 150 persons.

On the side of this room, running parallel to the front end of the building, are 13 booths for the ladies. These booths overlook the street and windows extend the full length of this side of the room, making it possible for occupants to enjoy the scenery outside.

In the center of this room are eight bench tables very neatly arranged to give the maximum amount of room for comfortable seating.

Adjacent to the main dining room is a conference room capable of seating fourteen persons.

Fluorescent lighting and an ultra-modern system of heating have been installed. A public address system is available for addressing a group concerning something of vital importance without having to strain the vocal chords.

In our capable cafeteria manager, who has fifteen years experience to back this job, we have the feeling and belief that through him only the best in food will be served.

Well, it's lunch time now, folks, so I'll be seeing you in the cafeteria.

DID YOU KNOW? (Continued from page 7)

That MARIE HASCEK, that petite Crane Operator in the Reinforcing Department was, before the war, a ballet dancer? She is still on her toes, however.

That PAUL DeMARTINI and CHARLES LUCY have been buying a string of race horses on the Budget Plan? I don't get it, you ask them.

That this company, back in 1919 had an export order, not for Steel, but for Edam Cheese? You read correctly, CHEESE. And incidentally . . . the order was filled.

That "once upon a time" the company had offices in the Orient.

*Photo: Henry Scheiler, manager of the new cafeteria, receives the key from N. O. Millar, treasurer of the company.*

*Photo: The first luncheon finds all tables full.*

*Photo: Climax of "Triple Achievement Program" . . . the sponsors and their guests have luncheon in the new cafeteria.*