Martin Berk:  

Graduated from St. John's Academy in 1943. Returned back to Rural Coyle OK. I farmed with father until 19 February 1946 when I was Inducted into Infantry. Basic training at Ft. McClellan AL, Then assigned to 38th Regimental Combat Team Camp Carson CO. Was a clerk Typist at Battalion Hqtrs and then Company Clerk. Discharge convenience of Government to go to College. Enrolled in Agricultural Engineering at Oklahoma A&M College while still on terminal leave. I was a Member Zigma Tau Honorary Engineering Fraternity. and Alpha Zeta Honorary Agricultural Fraternity. Graduated January 1951. Went to work at the John Deere Spreader Works, East Moline IL Product Engineering Department. Worked on Cotton Strippers, Corn Shellers, Auger Elevators, Feed Grinders etc. July 1962 was transfered to the John Deere Industrial Equipment Works in Moline, IL to join a design team designing Deere's first Lawn and Garden Tractor. The end of November, the company approved going in production with the project at the John Deere Horicon Works- Horicon, WI. Started working at Horicon 1 December 1962 until I retired 1 December 1984. I was a consultant for over 10 years following retirement from Deere. 12 April 1952 I married Penny who was a RN and Xray Technician who I met 6 Aprill 1951 my first weeke...Expand for more