Army & Navy - Veteran's Return

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As turret-gunner in a Martin Marauder, stubby, husky Staff Sergeant Clifford R. Wherley of Elmwood, Ill. has made 21 sorties against the enemy, won the Air Medal with three oakleaf clusters, been an all-round good fighting man. But in North Africa last week his career was ended.

Before his group adjutant stood Sergeant Wherley to hear an unwelcome order: he was being sent home, would be discharged on arrival in the States. Reason: after more than a year of service, Gunner Wherley was still only 16 years old.

At San Diego Jimmy Baker, who enlisted in the Marine Corps a year ago, has been a private first class for seven months, was honorably discharged. His age: 12.