24 February 1945
Letter no. 1
Saturday P.M.
February 24, 1945
Philippines
Dear Mom:
Just a couple of lines to say that I am fine, fat + lazy. I am now with a regular division — much better than anything I have been in yet. The fellows seem like nice guys — they have seen lots of action, and are highly praised. I hope I do alright with them. My new address is on this envelope — use it now. I think my mailing situation will soon be straightened out.
Dont worry about cigarettes and tobacco for me — I get all I want now and they don't cost me anything. Wish I could send some back there! Here are answers to some of your questions: We do have a cook; we don't get fresh fruit--do get canned fruit. Almost all of our food is canned or dehydrated. As for work what does any soldier do? No I I have none of my old buddies now. But I can always make friends in the Army. The Japs are not "congenial" company.
I am starting number my letters again start at no 1 again. Sorry I couldn't write oftener--hope to do better now if I can only get some stamps and envelopes. It will take a while to write to everyone.
I hope you are all well and you head is healed up. Tell Dad I would like to send him one of these Filipino wives. The natives here are really wonderful. There isn't anything they won't do for us. The most polite, clean and grateful people I have ever seen.
I have a native boy all my own. He does all my work, follows me around like I was his dad. He is about 13, very small, intelligent and speaks good English. These people had a rough deal from the Japs and they are glad to see the American Doughboy. The kids really get me. Can't help but pity them. The army is really helping them now.
Its a beautiful country. Palm trees, sunshine etc. Wish you could visit this country after the war. I am really getting a wonderful education thru the army — But don't get me wrong, I am ready to come home anytime!
Love --
Your Son
Saturday P.M.
February 24, 1945
Philippines
Dear Mom:
Just a couple of lines to say that I am fine, fat + lazy. I am now with a regular division — much better than anything I have been in yet. The fellows seem like nice guys — they have seen lots of action, and are highly praised. I hope I do alright with them. My new address is on this envelope — use it now. I think my mailing situation will soon be straightened out.
Dont worry about cigarettes and tobacco for me — I get all I want now and they don't cost me anything. Wish I could send some back there! Here are answers to some of your questions: We do have a cook; we don't get fresh fruit--do get canned fruit. Almost all of our food is canned or dehydrated. As for work what does any soldier do? No I I have none of my old buddies now. But I can always make friends in the Army. The Japs are not "congenial" company.
I am starting number my letters again start at no 1 again. Sorry I couldn't write oftener--hope to do better now if I can only get some stamps and envelopes. It will take a while to write to everyone.
I hope you are all well and you head is healed up. Tell Dad I would like to send him one of these Filipino wives. The natives here are really wonderful. There isn't anything they won't do for us. The most polite, clean and grateful people I have ever seen.
I have a native boy all my own. He does all my work, follows me around like I was his dad. He is about 13, very small, intelligent and speaks good English. These people had a rough deal from the Japs and they are glad to see the American Doughboy. The kids really get me. Can't help but pity them. The army is really helping them now.
Its a beautiful country. Palm trees, sunshine etc. Wish you could visit this country after the war. I am really getting a wonderful education thru the army — But don't get me wrong, I am ready to come home anytime!
Love --
Your Son