Glenn L. Penabaker of Owosso, Mich., entered military service on Sept. 18, 1917. After basic training at Camp Custer in Battle Creek, Mich., he was later assigned to the 85th Infantry Division. He was later transferred to Company C of the 310th Engineers, which became part of The American North Russian Expeditionary Forces. After completing training in England, he boarded transport to Russia.
Archangel, Russia
Fortunately for Penabaker, his unit was assigned to the city of Archangel, which was the headquarters for the U.S. troops fighting in the North Russian campaign. While there, Penabaker's unit constructed warehouses, billets, fortifications and many other building projects to support the U.S. troops. Company C of the 310th Engineers also operated the Archangel power plant, water works, sawmills and street car system. When railroad maintenance had to be done, Company C was there to get the job done. During his time in Russia, Penabaker served as a cook for U.S. soldiers in the Archangel area. Although he had to also deal with the cold and miserable weather conditions in Russia, he had the good fortune of avoiding direct combat. After his service in Russia, he returned to the Owosso area and lived to the ripe old age of 90.
Our Collection
The Michigan Traveling Military Museum is pleased to have and display the Glenn L. Penabaker Company C 310th Engineers of The American North Russian Expeditionary Forces grouping in our collection. We are very fortunate to have such a complete grouping.
