“Red ” Long Was Decorated Veteran
Ernest “Red” Long 56, passed away Saturday morning at St. Elizabeth Hosp. of Bronchial Pneumonia.
Mr. Long was born June 30th 1911 at Muddy Creek the son of Amy Long and the late William Long, pioneers of Baker County and the grandson of the late Alonzo and Julia Long, also early pioneers. He was employed by the Baker Meat Packing Company for several years. And before entering the service was employed in the mines at Butte, Montana.
He is survived by his mother, Amy Long of Baker, one son Donald Long of Sunland CA., one grandson Glenn and granddaughter Valerie Long also of Sunland; 5 sisters, Pearl Thrasher, Ruth Brown, Doris Colton, Daisey Elliott all of Baker and Opal Blank of Butte, Montana; 5 brothers Garnet, Glen, Harry, and Lewis all of Baker and Frank of Aberdeen, WA., also several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Long was a seasoned army infantry sergeant, entered the service in 1942 and went overseas in 1943. He went into combat in Normandy, fought through the Hedgerow war, battled to help take St. Lo and took part in the 130 mile push from Paris to Belgium. After Luxenbourg was freed he saw action in the “Bulge Battle” the crossing of the Rhine and the capture of Coblenz. In addition to the Combat Infantryman’s badge for exemplary conduct in action against the enemy, the former Sergeant also wore the European Theatre of Operations ribbon with four Campaign Stars and the Good Conduct Medal.
Funeral services for Mr. Long were conducted at 2:00 pm Tuesday in the Langrell Mortuary Chapel with Rev. Robert McNeil of the Methodist Church officiating. Interment was in the family plot in the Haines Cemetery.
The Record Courier, Baker City, Oregon, January 1968
Contributed by: Belva Tickno
