John Matas's Blog (6)

Throughout Germany, thousands of G.I.'s were looking for that perfect food that "hit the spot" (especially after a late night out). The Army and Air Force Exchange Services flipped some of the best burgers that could be found outside the States. The local Germans also grilled up a tasty bratwurst, served in a warm brochen (bun). The bratwurst cart in Germany was as common as the U.S. hot dog cart in New York. What was your favorite, the burger or bratwurst? (or was there something else you fanci… Continue

Did you know that Rod Serling served as a paratrooper in World War Two? The writer and producer of the vintage TV series saw some action with the 11th Aiborne Corp in the Pacific. Many Twilight Zone episodes have military themes, even one about the US 7th Cavalry. Do you recall the episode I am referring to? This episode took place during the late 1950's or early 1960's. It depicted a Montana National Guard tank crew lost on manuevers. They slowly begin to encounter signs that they have traveled… Continue

There has been a great response to this topic on the Amberg Group page. Those of you unfamiliar with the story; there has been some speculation about hidden tunnels and an underground motor pool left over by the German Army after World War Two. Many Troopers have added their knowledge about the plausibility of this story or chimed in on how unlikely it could be. Currently, the former site of Pond Barracks is under reconstruction for civilian use. One trooper has reported that during this reconst… Continue

Have you ever been to The Hofbrauhaus in Munich? (Maybe you were there during Oktoberfest and just don't remember). Well, the next time you are in Las Vegas, Nevada, you might have to do a double take. The Hofbrauhaus in Vegas is an exact replica of the one located in Munich (okay, you might not find your name carved in one of the benches). It is located diagonally from The Hard Rock Cafe (I believe it is on the corner of Paradise and Harmon Blvds.). On my last visit, I met this retired Air Forc… Continue

Of course we are all familiar with movies like "The Manchurian Candidate," "Dr. Strange Love," and the "Green Berets." However, has there ever been a Hollywood movie that accurately depicts the experience of American soldiers in Germany after World War Two? Let's not count Elvis Presley in "G.I. Blues," (although the music was great). In 2003, there was a movie called "Buffalo Soldiers." However, this movie had nothing to do with the Cav - it portrayed a military subcultue of drug addicts and th… Continue

Camp Reed and Camp May were familiar names to all Cav Troopers who were stationed in Amberg. However, I was assigned as Squadron Awards Clerk for the 3/2 ACR (1986-1987). Due to this posting, I did not have an opportunity to see the Czech border. I was going to go out there on "family day," but I was too embarrassed. So, to those of you who held the line in the snow - you have my deepest appreciation. I do find comfort in the fact that if you received a medal during my time, I processed your pap… Continue