V-MAIL

 

February 6, 1944  -- (Three days before departing for ANZIO)

 

Dear Jan

 

I haven't been able to write for several days, so thought I'd like to write you a long letter. It's kind a like talking with you, and especially so when I hear from you.  Your letters mean an awful lot to me darling, more than you can possibly realise.

 

Sure wish that I could write you more of what we're doing here, but you know about censorship, and giving comfort to the enemy. You know what I was learning to do in Benning and Camp Gordon? Over here we put that into practice, and learn a little more to go with it. I'm the Executive Officer of the Company now, and also the regimental gas office. I think it's one of the best jobs in the Army. I like this Division very much and have made some real good friends. Both Officers and enlisted men. Whenever we have spare time we play bridge, and some times poker. So you better catch up on this or I'll beat you out of all your money.

 

By the way, have you trimmed the gals in Black Jack lately?

 

At Christmas time when I got your new pictures I sent the one that I had at Camp Gordon to Mother and Dad. They were certainly pleased, and are anxious to meet you. We sure will have a busy time when I get back. I'm anxious to meet your folks and I want you to give them my best regards.

 

I forgot to tell you about my being the Censor for the company. I have to read all the letters of about 200 men. I really get the inside dope, and ought to be able to write better letters, but somehow I just can't put some of that love into worlds. I just write and hope that you'll understand that I do love you, that I want you to have fun, be real healthy, happy and meet me when I get back.

 

You probably wonder about Italy; looks so small on the map and seems to damn big when you start across it. The country certainly doesn't lack for variety. We've seen rich valleys, barren hills, the highest mountains in the world. We've seen beautiful sea coast towns, interesting large cities, some of the worst slums that I've ever seen and the largest castles in the world. From the poorest peasants to the richest Counts and Dukes. Naturally they're mixed up in their thoughts. Only a few months ago they were surrounded by the Germans, and told to hate and fear us. Now we're here, and we tell them to hate the Germans. The Italians are in a tough spot, and I think it will take years to bring them back to normal.

 

Honey, I'm certainly proud of your advances at Western, and I'm sure that you are deserving. Please give Mr. Craig my regards. Tell him that we over here do appreciate the effort that you are all making for a speedy victory.

 

Now then! Darling, about this bowling. Maybe you ought to get a book. I know your form is the best, but how about the way you're holding the ball? Maybe it's the alley?

 

Do you suppose you could buy me a deck of washable playing cards? If you could I would certainly appreciate it and if you can get them this letter will work as a request at the post office.

 

Today we were issued a new wool-knit sweater, long sleeves and all. It's pretty keen. The man in the picture with me is an MP from the Division, a pretty good married fellow from New Mexico. He and I came across together. He found a German camera and has some pretty good pictures. I'll try to bring some with me.

 

Tell the gals hello.

 

All my love

 

Len