In October 1944, the Arisan Maru sunk while transporting 1,800 prisoners of war. There were six survivors. 

The prisoners were American prisoners from the Philippines. As General Douglas MacArthur closed in on the island, the Japanese fled and took the American prisoners with them.

Nine of the POWs lost in the sinking were Wyomingites.

Post 19 has erected a monument honoring the men. A dedication is scheduled for 5 p.m. Oct. 24 — the 75th anniversary of the Arisan Maru sinking. According to Post 19 Finance Officer Ed McAuslan, there will be a moment of silence at 5:30 p.m. to coincide with the time the ship was sunk.

Anyone who knows how to get in touch with these men's family members should call McAuslan at 307-850-7224.

Here are their names:

  • Oscar Brevdy - Army Airforce, Cheyenne
  • Rolland E. Chenoweth - Army Airforce, Worland
  • Martin Giachino - Army, Alladin
  • Carl Karell Jr. - Army, Big Horn County
  • Maxwell A. Mariette - Navy, Fox Park
  • James S. McDonald - Army, Park County
  • William Schilling - Army, Converse County
  • Fremen J. Spence - Army Airforce, Casper

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