RG-117 Papers of Colonel A. M. Neilson, USA, Engineer Corps, SWPA / USAFPAC

RG-117 Papers of Colonel A. M. Neilson, USA, Engineer Corps, SWPA / USAFPAC; 4 boxes (2 Shelf Feet) Neilson served as an engineer in MacArthur’s Southwest Pacific Area and commanded one of the Engineer Boat and Shore Regiments that were so vital to amphibious war in the Pacific. This collection covers Neilson’s entire career and contains some interesting pieces from his life as an army engineer. The collection contains artifacts, books, correspondence, photos, and printed materials.

A graduate of West Point, Neilson went into the field of engineering and served in many interesting capacities during his career. As an instructor of engineering at West Point, Neilson helped with the construction of the George Washington Bridge over the Hudson River. Neilson was also a member of the Amelia Earhardt search team after she disappeared over the Pacific in 1937.

A map of the areas covered by the Amelia Earhardt search team

Neilson served as an engineer in the Southwest Pacific Area during World War II and was the commander of the 532nd Engineer Boat and Shore Regiment. His first action as commander of the 532nd was in the invasion of Hollandia, Dutch New Guinea in April, 1944.

Engineers of the Southwest Pacific pose on New Guinea. Murray stands in the rear just left of center.

Schematic of the landing operation at Hollandia highlighting which wave and boat in which Neilson went ashore

Neilson earned the Silver Star in December 1944, during action with the 532nd on Mindoro Island, Philippines.

Affidavit nominating Neilson for the Silver Star for action off Mindoro Island, Philippines, December 1944

Many interesting items that Neilson picked up during his career are included in this collection.

Image of Mount Rushmore under construction ca. 1939

Found within the collection was this monograph by Helena Rodriquez. It chronicles the Japanese massacre of Filipino civilians at the German Club during the battle of Manila in February 1945. Ms. Rodriquez was one of only seven survivors of the 1500 that were massacred.