Vic was liked by everyone, my grandma Dorie Kirchgassner (Dad’s mother), told me decades ago when I inquired about him. I can still see her face as she said kind things about him, reminiscing about how he helped someone when their arm got caught in a wringer washer, showcasing his character and kindness. Even though Vic had been killed in action during World War II over twenty years prior, she remembered him with fondness, a testament to the impact he had on those around him. Victor William Hoffmeier (03/27/1908) was a lifelong resident of Yorkville, Indiana, where he spent his childhood playing in the fields and creeks, creating memories that would last a lifetime. When he enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve in October of 1942, he was driven by a sense of duty and patriotism that was prevalent during those tumultuous times. He was the youngest son of four, raised in a household that instilled strong values. Vic attended St. Martin’s School for 8 years, where his curiosity and eagerness to learn flourished, then he chose a profession as an auto repair man, reflecting his hands-on outlook and ability to solve problems. He operated his garage on York Ridge Road in Yorkville, where he became a trusted figure in the community, until he reported to the Great Lakes Training Station in Illinois, ready to serve his country and make a difference in the world.
Vic enlisted on October 13, 1942. In his physical that day, it is documented that he was 5 foot 6 1/2 inches, weighed one hundred and forty-one pounds, with blue eyes and a ruddy complexion. Given his training as an auto repair man, it doesn’t surprise me that Vic was assigned to one of the 70 tugboats, USS Nauset, which was built in 1942. These tugboats, specifically designed for service during WWII, were remarkable beasts given their exceptional capabilities. They were 205 feet long and could tow big vessels for long distances across the vast ocean, ensuring that even the largest ships could be maneuvered safely when they needed assistance. In combat situations, these powerful tugs could assist war-torn ships at close range, effectively providing much-needed support for damaged vessels. Equipped with robust fire-fighting equipment, they played a crucial role in extinguishing flames and preventing further destruction at sea, showcasing not only their strength but also the skilled crew that operated them, who had to remain calm and resourceful under pressure. The USS Nauset and its sister ships became indispensable during the conflict, exemplifying the essential support role that tugboats played in maintaining naval operations and ensuring the safety of many lives at sea.
The USS Nauset left Norfolk Virginia on April 28, 1943 and sailed towards Bermuda. From there the tugboat sailed and landed at Mers-el-Kebir, Algeria about a month after departure. In early July, the USS Nauset set off to help in the invasion of Sicily (07/09 to 08/17 1943.) There the crew and ship were kept occupied for two weeks with repairs, towing and salvage operations across the coast of Sicily in addition to regular duties. By August 24, the USS Nauset was in Bizerte, Tunisia to get ready for “Operation Alvanche” the invasion of Salerno, Italy on September 9, 1943. (Winston Churchill called Salerno “the under belly of Italy.) On September 7, the USS Nauset departed Tunisia with a Royal Navy Boat and crew–designated team of mine sweepers. The tug arrived in the vicinity of Salerno, on 09/09/1943 at the prearranged “Uncle” beaches, and lowered the Royal Navy Boat at 2:30 AM to hopefully clear the shallow waters close to the beachhead of mines.
At the same time, in a close location to the Salerno beach head, my dad, Robert Kirchgassner, serving with the 45th Infantry Division, was sitting on a ship in “floating reserve,” anxiously awaiting his turn to engage in the fray. The men of the 45th Infantry Division would not participate in battle for Salerno until September 10, as other divisions, including the British Army, were to take the lead in the daunting assault on coastline. Dad, fully aware of the peril that lay ahead, hated every minute of being on the ship during the relentless bombardment on September 9. He described the scene as something “you would see on the 4th of July,” flares lighting the darkness and the sounds of artillery echoing in the distance, creating an atmosphere thick with tension and uncertainty. He said he felt like a “sitting duck,” with nowhere to go and no defense, I am sure a mix of fear and frustration, longing for the moment when he could finally step ashore, be on land and fulfill his duty. (Also, on the waters at the same time and place, was Leroy Seevers of New Alsace, Indiana.)
At approximately 5:10 AM, on September 9, USS Nauset was struck by a bomb, no warning until an enemy plane emerged from a dive. Then it was too late and no time to counter attack. Despite maintaining total darkness to avoid detection, an aerial bomb hit the ship, reportedly impacting the motor and generator rooms where Motor Machinist Mate 1st Class Vic was likely stationed and killed instantly. Fire spread rapidly, disabling all power on the USS Nauset. The nearby tugs USS Narragansett and USS Intent attempted to assist by using fire hoses and securing tow lines to the USS Nauset. Wounded crew members were evacuated, and the fire was contained on deck, but it ravaged the spaces below. Anti aircraft fire from ships in the area helped give cover to the USS Nauset. Ultimately, the crew was forced to abandon the ship due to fire and flooding. During the evacuation, somehow the ship briefly stabilized, allowing Captain Lt. Joseph Orleck and others to reboard and secure tow lines with hopes of saving the ship. Shortly after, within seconds,the ship struck a mine, broke apart, and sank with the Captain and 1st Lieutenant still on board. Of the 113 crew members on board, 18 were killed or went missing, and 41 sustained serious injuries.
A telegram was received by Victor’s parents, Jacob and Mary (Winter) Hoffmeier on September 15, stating that their son was missing in action. (Aunt Ruthie Martini saw the telegram being delivered to the Hoffmeier Farm. She was on the school bus passing their home at the time.) The telegram, written in a formal yet somber tone, also asked the parents not to disclose the name of the ship or Vic’s station, as it might inadvertently aid the enemy in their operations. This caution underscored the gravity of the situation and the ongoing hostilities. Also receiving the same telegram were the parents of Edgar Bessler of Oldenberg, Indiana, which added an additional layer of sorrow as both families faced the uncertainty of their sons’ fates together. Vic and Edgar had become close friends during boot camp, both eager to serve their country and rise through the ranks. They held the same rank, which further solidified their bond as they navigated the rigors of military training side by side. Tragically, both were serving on the USS Nauset in Salerno, Italy, when it sank due to a devastating barrage of enemy fire, altering the course of their young lives forever. In recognition of their bravery and sacrifice, both received the Purple Heart and the US Victory Medal over Europe posthumously, symbolizing their ultimate dedication and the high price of freedom for those who mourned their loss. The United States Navy lists their date of death on September 10, 1943.
Four generations of Hoffmeiers out from Victor and he is still remembered today in family gatherings, where stories of his heroism and spirit are shared among family members. His service will always be valued throughout the future generations, as we strive to honor his legacy by instilling the same sense of duty and resilience in our children and grandchildren. Whitey Widolff and Scott Hoffmeier, along with Pat Marini, all cousins, have dedicated considerable time and effort to uncovering more research on Vic’s remarkable service in World War II, piecing together the history that shaped our family’s narrative. During my research, I discovered that the Trossmans are also related through the Kuebels to Victor Hoffmeier, further intertwining our family trees and reinforcing the bonds that tie us to his memory. That revelation reassures me that Vic’s service will not be forgotten, and with each new discovery, we keep his spirit alive. As Thanksgiving approaches next week, I hope to be more mindful and thankful to God for the men and women who wore the uniform and served, especially those that are still “missing,” reminding us of the sacrifices made to keep America the Country that I so dearly love. Through gatherings and shared memories, we hold their stories close to our hearts. VALE and Blessed be God!