Famous ILASCO Residents
While many may not have heard of these Ilascans, we hope that their stories will be seen by as many people as possible.
Rosemary Mikula:
The Forgotten War Nurse
The late Rosemary Mikula Fager, Ilasco native, deserves to be honored during Women’s History Month and every day. The daughter of Slavic immigrants, Rosemary served in the 8055th M*A*S*H unit (Korea).
M*A*S*H*, the popular long running TV series about a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH) unit in Korea during that war, was created as a result of the enormously successful movie. The movie was based on the book M*A*S*H* written by Dr. H. Richard Hornberger (pen name - Richard Hooker). Dr. Hornberger was the chief surgeon of the 8055th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, which saw service during the Korean War from 1950 thru 1953. The 8055th M*A*S*H unit treated an overwhelming number of battlefield casualties. During one 2 month period in Korea, its surgeons and nurses treated some 5,000 battle casualties. This M*A*S*H unit was only a few miles behind the front lines.
Army 1st Lieutenant Rosemary Mikula, a proud graduate of ILasco High School's Class of 1942, served as a surgical nurse in this M*A*S*H unit from 1951 to 1952. During her service, she played a vital role in treating battlefield casualties transported by helicopter from the front lines, an innovative approach to trauma care at the time. The hospital was comprised of tents, where life-saving surgeries took place, and all medical personnel resided in similar accommodations. This unique setup posed significant challenges, with extreme heat in the summer and bitter cold in the winter testing their resilience and commitment.
Rosemary was a deeply compassionate and kind-hearted individual, qualities that undoubtedly drew her to the role of caregiver. While serving with the 8055th, she received a thoughtful gift of chocolates from her mother for Easter. In a beautiful display of generosity, Rosemary chose to share these treats with the soldiers under her care, spreading joy and warmth to those around her.
We honor the late (November 28, 1924 - March 1, 2016) Rosemary Mikula Fager for her bravery and service to this great country.
Paul Tretiak: A Sporting Legacy
Born on September 8, 1926, to Slovak immigrants George & Susan (Bozalka) Tretiak in Ilasco, Missouri, Paul Tretiak dedicated his life to baseball both on and off the field. Over the course of his remarkable 36-year career, he showcased his talents with several prominent teams, including the Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and New York Mets. He excelled in multiple positions, prominently playing as a second baseman, shortstop, and third baseman.
Tretiak's remarkable skills and dedication to the game earned him two coveted World Series Championship rings: one with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1960 and another with the New York Mets in 1969.
For a few years in the 1950’s, his passion for baseball led him to the role of head coach for the Macon Peaches, helping to nurture the next generation of talent.
In the 1980s, Tretiak transitioned to scouting, where he scoured rural areas and suburban neighborhoods from Texas to Canada as a territorial scout for the Milwaukee Brewers. His extensive experience and keen eye for talent contributed to the growth of baseball. He never missed a thing on the field.
Paul Tretiak's legacy is one of dedication, resilience, and a deep love for baseball, leaving an indelible mark on the game and its fans.