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Pvt. W. E. Keithley, Plt 707 R.D. M.C.B.
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Transcribed letters home from Jan. 1944, Feb. 1944, Mar. 1944, Apr. 1944, May 1944, June 1944, July 1944
January 1944
P.f.d. W. E. Ketihley
To Mr. and Mrs. M. J. Keithley Co. B. 18 (can’t decipher)
East Main St. Com (can’t decipher}
Mt. Horeb, WIsc Fleet Postmaster
San Francisco, Calif
Date 1-26-44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Wiring this to inform you of the change of address. Things here are just fine. Have had guard duty and have been on a few working parties.
We play basketball, football, and softball. Also see a movie every evening.
How are things there? Tell everyone hello and also write to Earl, Ralph and (can’t decipher name) and give them my address. Will write to them at the first opportunity.
How is the high school team coming? Better see some more games! How did the pictures turn out that you took? Guess this is all for now.
Love
Bill Return to top
To Mr. and Mrs. M. J. Keithley Co. B. 18 (can’t decipher)
East Main St. Com (can’t decipher}
Mt. Horeb, WIsc Fleet Postmaster
San Francisco, Calif
Date 1-26-44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Wiring this to inform you of the change of address. Things here are just fine. Have had guard duty and have been on a few working parties.
We play basketball, football, and softball. Also see a movie every evening.
How are things there? Tell everyone hello and also write to Earl, Ralph and (can’t decipher name) and give them my address. Will write to them at the first opportunity.
How is the high school team coming? Better see some more games! How did the pictures turn out that you took? Guess this is all for now.
Love
Bill Return to top
Envelope is addressed to: Mr. & Mrs. M. J. Keithley
East Main St
Mt. Horeb, Wisc.
Return Address: P.f.c. W. E. Keithley
35th Repl. Engn.Bn.Co.C.
%Fleet Marine Force P O
San Francisco, Calif. Postmarked U.S. Navy Jan. 27 P.M
Dear Mom & Dad,
Writing this to inform you of the change of address. Things here are just fine. Have had guard duty and have been on a few working parties.
We play basketball, football and softball. Also see a movie every evening. How are things there? Tell everyone hello and also write to Earl, Ralph, and [Louie?] and give them my address. Will write to them at the first opportunity.
How is the high school team coming? Better all some more games! How did the pictures turn out that you took? Guess this is all for now.
Love
Bill Return to top
East Main St
Mt. Horeb, Wisc.
Return Address: P.f.c. W. E. Keithley
35th Repl. Engn.Bn.Co.C.
%Fleet Marine Force P O
San Francisco, Calif. Postmarked U.S. Navy Jan. 27 P.M
Dear Mom & Dad,
Writing this to inform you of the change of address. Things here are just fine. Have had guard duty and have been on a few working parties.
We play basketball, football and softball. Also see a movie every evening. How are things there? Tell everyone hello and also write to Earl, Ralph, and [Louie?] and give them my address. Will write to them at the first opportunity.
How is the high school team coming? Better all some more games! How did the pictures turn out that you took? Guess this is all for now.
Love
Bill Return to top
Note: Top of letter shows who the letter is addressed to and return address.
Dear Mom & Dad,
Heard you are all fine and in good health! That is fine. Have arrived in the South Pacific safely. Wasn’t seasick at all, so therefore enjoyed the trip. It is very pretty here and are going swimming every day. The terrain here is mountainous.
How is everyone back there? Hope they are all o.k. How is the basketball team doing? Suppose you have quite a bit of snow by now.
Met Howard Wallace on the boat. Sure was a great surprise. Had quite a time with him on the way over. As a result, I got all the news from down around there.
Have any of the fellows been home on furlough lately? Suppose they are kept busy all the time. Write and tell the relatives my address and then they can write to me. Say hello to everyone and write soon.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Heard you are all fine and in good health! That is fine. Have arrived in the South Pacific safely. Wasn’t seasick at all, so therefore enjoyed the trip. It is very pretty here and are going swimming every day. The terrain here is mountainous.
How is everyone back there? Hope they are all o.k. How is the basketball team doing? Suppose you have quite a bit of snow by now.
Met Howard Wallace on the boat. Sure was a great surprise. Had quite a time with him on the way over. As a result, I got all the news from down around there.
Have any of the fellows been home on furlough lately? Suppose they are kept busy all the time. Write and tell the relatives my address and then they can write to me. Say hello to everyone and write soon.
Love
Bill Return to top
Feb. 3, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Sorry I haven’t written sooner but you know how things are over here. Things are just fine over here. Haven’t received your [five?] yet , but am hoping it will arrive pretty soon. Suppose Pa is pretty happy over the thought of putting in an extension of line. Tell him he had better learn to like that book work even if it is a little tiresome! When I get home maybe I can do that work for him, but until then he’d better stick to it.
Have a wonderful time swimming and fishing on our days off. I told you in the mail that I met Howard Wallace on the boat coming over. It was a real surprise. We are definitely not following Syl or Russ at all. Wish I were thought. Would be a great treat to see him. Say Mom will you look in my latest year book and see whose initials are M.A.B.! It got a xmas card signed that way and I can’t figure out who sent it.
Say hello to everyone for me and also see some basketball games for me. Hear the boys are doing o.k. for themselves, considering Wisc. is doing alright to aren’t they! Glad to hear that got Leland from Northwestern.
Get paid $30 Monday. That is going to come in very handy. You will probably start getting that $20 dollar allotment I took out at Elliott. This is all for now.
Love
Bill Return to top
P.f.c. W. E. Keithley
Co. C. Corps Rept. Bn.
Transiet Center
%Fleet Post Master
San Francisco,Calif.
Dear Mom & Dad,
Sorry I haven’t written sooner but you know how things are over here. Things are just fine over here. Haven’t received your [five?] yet , but am hoping it will arrive pretty soon. Suppose Pa is pretty happy over the thought of putting in an extension of line. Tell him he had better learn to like that book work even if it is a little tiresome! When I get home maybe I can do that work for him, but until then he’d better stick to it.
Have a wonderful time swimming and fishing on our days off. I told you in the mail that I met Howard Wallace on the boat coming over. It was a real surprise. We are definitely not following Syl or Russ at all. Wish I were thought. Would be a great treat to see him. Say Mom will you look in my latest year book and see whose initials are M.A.B.! It got a xmas card signed that way and I can’t figure out who sent it.
Say hello to everyone for me and also see some basketball games for me. Hear the boys are doing o.k. for themselves, considering Wisc. is doing alright to aren’t they! Glad to hear that got Leland from Northwestern.
Get paid $30 Monday. That is going to come in very handy. You will probably start getting that $20 dollar allotment I took out at Elliott. This is all for now.
Love
Bill Return to top
P.f.c. W. E. Keithley
Co. C. Corps Rept. Bn.
Transiet Center
%Fleet Post Master
San Francisco,Calif.
Feb. 20, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Having been on the move again, it sort of hinders my writing. We are in the tropics. There are a lot of coconuts and also natives. Had a great surprise when I learned that Joe was in the same outfit that I am in. You see his folks and you can find out from them where I am and what I am in. Swiggum is very far from me and I am going to see him some day. Say hello to his dad.
How are things at home? Suppose it is fairly cool. Last I heard. Wisc. was doing fairly good in their games. How is Pa coming with his work? They keep busy. But the fellows here are really nice and therefore you don’t mind working. They have good chow and movies every night. Heard Russ was in for a time. We {portions of the letter here are blocked out] rth from there for some time. Send some candy if you possibly can. Anything to eat in spare moments. Say hello to everyone for me and if you see Bill’s folks give me his address in boot camp or where ever he is by now.
How is the basketball team coming along? Hope Sale is the big gun this year. Say hello to him for me. Can’t think of anything else so will quit.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Having been on the move again, it sort of hinders my writing. We are in the tropics. There are a lot of coconuts and also natives. Had a great surprise when I learned that Joe was in the same outfit that I am in. You see his folks and you can find out from them where I am and what I am in. Swiggum is very far from me and I am going to see him some day. Say hello to his dad.
How are things at home? Suppose it is fairly cool. Last I heard. Wisc. was doing fairly good in their games. How is Pa coming with his work? They keep busy. But the fellows here are really nice and therefore you don’t mind working. They have good chow and movies every night. Heard Russ was in for a time. We {portions of the letter here are blocked out] rth from there for some time. Send some candy if you possibly can. Anything to eat in spare moments. Say hello to everyone for me and if you see Bill’s folks give me his address in boot camp or where ever he is by now.
How is the basketball team coming along? Hope Sale is the big gun this year. Say hello to him for me. Can’t think of anything else so will quit.
Love
Bill Return to top
Feb. 24, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Have a little time, so figured I would drop a few lines. How is every thing back there? Work is just about the same. I suppose! How is your line coming along? You probably have it complete by now.
Work is going along just as it always does. We are a little busy now but don’t mind it one bit. I am in the ammunition section, which is a good outfit. Don’t know what the training in camouflage was for at all! Just a waste of time, I think.
I am just fine. Never was better. Will see Swiggum just as soon as I see a little time off. Hope we have Sunday to ourselves. Am going to see if Russ is around here anywhere. Sure hope he is.
What is the basketball team doing? Hope they win a few games for themselves. Is Syl still in the same place? Let me know his address if you will.
Say hello to everyone and tell them I am just fine. Don’t worry, because I will be home safely before too long.
Love
Bill Return to top
Over
Put the savings allotment in the bank unless you have started to by bonds with it.
Dear Mom & Dad,
Have a little time, so figured I would drop a few lines. How is every thing back there? Work is just about the same. I suppose! How is your line coming along? You probably have it complete by now.
Work is going along just as it always does. We are a little busy now but don’t mind it one bit. I am in the ammunition section, which is a good outfit. Don’t know what the training in camouflage was for at all! Just a waste of time, I think.
I am just fine. Never was better. Will see Swiggum just as soon as I see a little time off. Hope we have Sunday to ourselves. Am going to see if Russ is around here anywhere. Sure hope he is.
What is the basketball team doing? Hope they win a few games for themselves. Is Syl still in the same place? Let me know his address if you will.
Say hello to everyone and tell them I am just fine. Don’t worry, because I will be home safely before too long.
Love
Bill Return to top
Over
Put the savings allotment in the bank unless you have started to by bonds with it.
March 2, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Will write again even though I haven’t anything to write about. Haven’t been doing much in the way of excitement. How are you and hope everyone else is o.k. also. This evening was spent in playing cards just a friendly game no money involved. Then we went over to the Red Cross tent and read and then I picked up this stationery.
Everything here is fine. Work is coming along just fine. Have gained more weight so you know the chow is alright. Never felt happier since I have been away from home. Several fellows in here from La Crosse, and Sheboygan. Hope the basketball teams are doing o.k.
How is Keith coming along. Suppose he is out East by now. That will hurt Earl and Eschal (?) Have finally found out where Russ is. He isn’t here but just South. Wish I would get to see him.
Where is Ken and Syl? Give me their address and also Joe Buechner’s.
How is June and her folks? Say hello to her. Will probably write to her tomorrow night. How is the high line coming along Dad? Give me the scope from around there. Say hello to everyone who may want to know how I am. This is about all for now. Write as soon as possible and send some papers after you are through with them. Also don’t forget cookies or a box of candy. If you can get a fairly good pipe, send it. Will appreciate it greatly.
Your loving son
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Will write again even though I haven’t anything to write about. Haven’t been doing much in the way of excitement. How are you and hope everyone else is o.k. also. This evening was spent in playing cards just a friendly game no money involved. Then we went over to the Red Cross tent and read and then I picked up this stationery.
Everything here is fine. Work is coming along just fine. Have gained more weight so you know the chow is alright. Never felt happier since I have been away from home. Several fellows in here from La Crosse, and Sheboygan. Hope the basketball teams are doing o.k.
How is Keith coming along. Suppose he is out East by now. That will hurt Earl and Eschal (?) Have finally found out where Russ is. He isn’t here but just South. Wish I would get to see him.
Where is Ken and Syl? Give me their address and also Joe Buechner’s.
How is June and her folks? Say hello to her. Will probably write to her tomorrow night. How is the high line coming along Dad? Give me the scope from around there. Say hello to everyone who may want to know how I am. This is about all for now. Write as soon as possible and send some papers after you are through with them. Also don’t forget cookies or a box of candy. If you can get a fairly good pipe, send it. Will appreciate it greatly.
Your loving son
Bill Return to top
March 5, 1944
7:45 P.M.
Dear Mom & Dad,Today was heaven! We had the day off and spent it cruising around the island Harley Lamke and myself. We saw a buddie of his that is in the navy. We ate chow with him and it was really good. Fried chicken, peas, corn, mashed potatoes, cake, and coffee. Then it started to rain so he gave us a raincoat apiece to keep. It was really a swell.
Saw a B24 today. It sure is a beautiful thing. The inside looked queer and crowded. How are the things on the home front! Heard that the weather in Calif. was pretty bad? Wouldn’t mind seeing it.
Received the razors and knife today. Thanks a million for them can always use them. I ought to get some mail pretty soon, now that I got the package.
Tomorrow we start school in ordinance. Have it for about one week. Will be a chance for me to learn something. (If I can).
Have you heard from Russ, Syl, or Ken? If you have give me their addresses. Right now it is raining. Hope it keeps it up for a while. Sure can sleep when it rains like this.
Things here are very fine. So don’t worry. Hope to her from you soon.
Your loving son
Bill Return to top
7:45 P.M.
Dear Mom & Dad,Today was heaven! We had the day off and spent it cruising around the island Harley Lamke and myself. We saw a buddie of his that is in the navy. We ate chow with him and it was really good. Fried chicken, peas, corn, mashed potatoes, cake, and coffee. Then it started to rain so he gave us a raincoat apiece to keep. It was really a swell.
Saw a B24 today. It sure is a beautiful thing. The inside looked queer and crowded. How are the things on the home front! Heard that the weather in Calif. was pretty bad? Wouldn’t mind seeing it.
Received the razors and knife today. Thanks a million for them can always use them. I ought to get some mail pretty soon, now that I got the package.
Tomorrow we start school in ordinance. Have it for about one week. Will be a chance for me to learn something. (If I can).
Have you heard from Russ, Syl, or Ken? If you have give me their addresses. Right now it is raining. Hope it keeps it up for a while. Sure can sleep when it rains like this.
Things here are very fine. So don’t worry. Hope to her from you soon.
Your loving son
Bill Return to top
March 21
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom Dad,
So you have been having the flu back there? That is good stuff to stay away from isn’t it? Darn glad to hear from you. Heard from June about four days ago. This evening I got 2 letters from you and June both.
Glad to hear about Russ. He is doing alright for himself. Bet his Mother is pretty proud by now. He deserved it too. I imagine. I am going to look Russ one of these days. His outfit is here.
So Clem has been in Alaska for some time. Might see that much time over here, but hope not. So Charley is a Captain in the Mediterranean Area? Funny what a little time will do to a fellow’s life. Who would every suspect two years ago, that I would be over here now. That’s the way it goes though.
So all the fellows in the Army are still getting furloughs. That is the army! So you don’t know anything about “Joe.” Did you see him when he was home? Get to talk to him? Thanks for the clippings out of the paper.
So Hoff has finally joined the Marines too? There won’t be many fellows left there, will there? So Ted Anderson was home? Would have liked to seen him. Where is he at now?
Haven’t heard from Ken since I left the states. He is probably over here somewhere.
See Uncle Tom is moving down to Ill. Somewhere? He is really going to move around with that job. Suppose he doesn’t mind it at all though.
So Keith is at D.C. now. Wonder how he likes being so far from home. Someone will be homesick for long. Either him or his Mother. Suppose Jimmy is the same old guy. Would like to have played some ball with him when he was home. Now I have answered your letters so will give you a little scope from here and then quit.
Work is stilling about the same. In a hurry though because of a big inspection. Evenings are quiet. There is a poker game going on in the tent now. Usually go and see a show somewhere. Didn’t get last Sun day off, so couldn’t go swimming.
Don’t think of much else. Oh, yea! Get me some flint for my lighter. Send some quick too because the lighter doesn’t work because of no flint.
Don’t worry.
Love
Bill Return to top
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom Dad,
So you have been having the flu back there? That is good stuff to stay away from isn’t it? Darn glad to hear from you. Heard from June about four days ago. This evening I got 2 letters from you and June both.
Glad to hear about Russ. He is doing alright for himself. Bet his Mother is pretty proud by now. He deserved it too. I imagine. I am going to look Russ one of these days. His outfit is here.
So Clem has been in Alaska for some time. Might see that much time over here, but hope not. So Charley is a Captain in the Mediterranean Area? Funny what a little time will do to a fellow’s life. Who would every suspect two years ago, that I would be over here now. That’s the way it goes though.
So all the fellows in the Army are still getting furloughs. That is the army! So you don’t know anything about “Joe.” Did you see him when he was home? Get to talk to him? Thanks for the clippings out of the paper.
So Hoff has finally joined the Marines too? There won’t be many fellows left there, will there? So Ted Anderson was home? Would have liked to seen him. Where is he at now?
Haven’t heard from Ken since I left the states. He is probably over here somewhere.
See Uncle Tom is moving down to Ill. Somewhere? He is really going to move around with that job. Suppose he doesn’t mind it at all though.
So Keith is at D.C. now. Wonder how he likes being so far from home. Someone will be homesick for long. Either him or his Mother. Suppose Jimmy is the same old guy. Would like to have played some ball with him when he was home. Now I have answered your letters so will give you a little scope from here and then quit.
Work is stilling about the same. In a hurry though because of a big inspection. Evenings are quiet. There is a poker game going on in the tent now. Usually go and see a show somewhere. Didn’t get last Sun day off, so couldn’t go swimming.
Don’t think of much else. Oh, yea! Get me some flint for my lighter. Send some quick too because the lighter doesn’t work because of no flint.
Don’t worry.
Love
Bill Return to top
March 27, 1944
Dearest Mom & Dad,
Haven’t heard from you for a couple of days so figured I would write. How are things at home and the surrounding area? Well, dad I suppose your line is progressing very slowly. I can imagine how difficult it is to get certain materials. I hear you still run into trouble trying to read the Sunday paper! Time out.
Just got back from the show. The name of it was “Bombers’ Moon.” It was really good. Robt. Montgomery played in it and he played the part of a Captain in the air corps from Madison Wisc. Maybe you have seen the picture. It was darn good picture.
Everything is just fine here. Last evening I had watch out at the ammunition dump. Therefore I caught up on my letter writing. Wrote to Russes’ Mother and also June. The work is continuing the same as ever. Getting a little easier because I am catching onto the work.
What is news around home! Suppose the team is almost through playing. Last I heard, Wisc. was doing alright for themselves.
Heard Joe is in the 5th Div. now. Guess he is in ordinance company. Will write to him at the first opportunity.
Where are you working at now, Mom?
June keeps speaking about your liking your work, but I still don’t know where you are working.
How is Jack Halverson getting along in the army? Bet he is going great guns! You know Halverson. Can’t think of much else right now. Am waiting right now for a little hot lunch. Think it is almost ready, so will close. Don’t worry, please.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dearest Mom & Dad,
Haven’t heard from you for a couple of days so figured I would write. How are things at home and the surrounding area? Well, dad I suppose your line is progressing very slowly. I can imagine how difficult it is to get certain materials. I hear you still run into trouble trying to read the Sunday paper! Time out.
Just got back from the show. The name of it was “Bombers’ Moon.” It was really good. Robt. Montgomery played in it and he played the part of a Captain in the air corps from Madison Wisc. Maybe you have seen the picture. It was darn good picture.
Everything is just fine here. Last evening I had watch out at the ammunition dump. Therefore I caught up on my letter writing. Wrote to Russes’ Mother and also June. The work is continuing the same as ever. Getting a little easier because I am catching onto the work.
What is news around home! Suppose the team is almost through playing. Last I heard, Wisc. was doing alright for themselves.
Heard Joe is in the 5th Div. now. Guess he is in ordinance company. Will write to him at the first opportunity.
Where are you working at now, Mom?
June keeps speaking about your liking your work, but I still don’t know where you are working.
How is Jack Halverson getting along in the army? Bet he is going great guns! You know Halverson. Can’t think of much else right now. Am waiting right now for a little hot lunch. Think it is almost ready, so will close. Don’t worry, please.
Love
Bill Return to top
March 31, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well haven’t heard from you for several days, so will write. Thanks for the x-mas present. It arrived last evening . Wrote to June last evening. Took me all evening to write it. Did I tell you about the letter I wrote to Joe. It was the biggest letter I have ever seen. He will sure have a time reading it.
April 1st.
Well last evening, I couldn’t see to concentrate so I figured I would finish the letter tonight. Harley and I just got back from the Red Cross. Went up there and read the papers and magazines. Also heard the hit parade and the barn dance. Sure seems funny to hear songs on the hit parade that you have never heard before. Some are good songs, but some don’t appeal at all. Might be just me though. The barn dance were indeed pretty good too.
Boy it sure rained here today. We had quite a time too. Have this afternoon off and also tomorrow. Guess I will go touring with Lamke. Washed clothes this afternoon also. Got tired, so didn’t finish. Will finish in the morning.
How are you and everyone else. Suppose Tom is in Ill. By now. Wrote to him some time ago, but have never heard from him. He is probably pretty busy now.
How is the work coming along Pa? Bet you are fairly busy at times. Would like to be there to have fun like we used to. Bet Mother’s nerves are better n ow that she doesn't have to worry about someone getting hurt.
Well Mom how is everything with you? Suppose you are working every day. Do you like it? Keep on sending stuff when ever you can get around to it. Anything will be greatly appreciated. If sugar and butter cut down the cookies, candy will be just fine. Will send home some money pretty soon. Are you getting my allotment?
How about the war bonds? This money I send home, you can put some of it into war bonds and the rest into the bank. That way, when I get home, I can draw the money from the bank and won’t have to cash my war bonds.
Don’t forget to send papers. Like to read the news from Madison and surrounding area. Well guess this is all for now. Think of both of you all the time. Don’t worry, everything is just fine.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well haven’t heard from you for several days, so will write. Thanks for the x-mas present. It arrived last evening . Wrote to June last evening. Took me all evening to write it. Did I tell you about the letter I wrote to Joe. It was the biggest letter I have ever seen. He will sure have a time reading it.
April 1st.
Well last evening, I couldn’t see to concentrate so I figured I would finish the letter tonight. Harley and I just got back from the Red Cross. Went up there and read the papers and magazines. Also heard the hit parade and the barn dance. Sure seems funny to hear songs on the hit parade that you have never heard before. Some are good songs, but some don’t appeal at all. Might be just me though. The barn dance were indeed pretty good too.
Boy it sure rained here today. We had quite a time too. Have this afternoon off and also tomorrow. Guess I will go touring with Lamke. Washed clothes this afternoon also. Got tired, so didn’t finish. Will finish in the morning.
How are you and everyone else. Suppose Tom is in Ill. By now. Wrote to him some time ago, but have never heard from him. He is probably pretty busy now.
How is the work coming along Pa? Bet you are fairly busy at times. Would like to be there to have fun like we used to. Bet Mother’s nerves are better n ow that she doesn't have to worry about someone getting hurt.
Well Mom how is everything with you? Suppose you are working every day. Do you like it? Keep on sending stuff when ever you can get around to it. Anything will be greatly appreciated. If sugar and butter cut down the cookies, candy will be just fine. Will send home some money pretty soon. Are you getting my allotment?
How about the war bonds? This money I send home, you can put some of it into war bonds and the rest into the bank. That way, when I get home, I can draw the money from the bank and won’t have to cash my war bonds.
Don’t forget to send papers. Like to read the news from Madison and surrounding area. Well guess this is all for now. Think of both of you all the time. Don’t worry, everything is just fine.
Love
Bill Return to top
4/4/44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your V. mail yesterday which was mailed the 26th. Thought I would tell you so you could see whether v. mail traveled faster than the air mail.
So you are having a little touch of spring! Pretty soon you will be planting a garden and having fresh vegetables. Sure wish I could get one of those fresh tomatoes, that will be ripe in a couple of months.
Thanks for Syl’s address. Wrote him a long letter this evening. Also wrote to Luella some time ago. Expect an answer from her one of these days.
Last night, was a typical tropical evening. The moon was shinning and it was very pretty outside. That part of it looked like the South Sea Island pictures you see.
Heard that Pop was fairly sick for a time. Say Pop, why don’t you write? Like to hear from you to. Got a letter from Grandma the other day. She told of Keith enjoying New York and also Washington D.C. Am going to the Red Cross now, will write more later.
Well am back now. Sort of wish I hadn’t gone. Am dead tired now. We looked at several magazines and then came back.
Am going to send you some money in a couple of days. Tell me when you receive the money order. Well guess I shall close for now. Write soon and very often, please.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your V. mail yesterday which was mailed the 26th. Thought I would tell you so you could see whether v. mail traveled faster than the air mail.
So you are having a little touch of spring! Pretty soon you will be planting a garden and having fresh vegetables. Sure wish I could get one of those fresh tomatoes, that will be ripe in a couple of months.
Thanks for Syl’s address. Wrote him a long letter this evening. Also wrote to Luella some time ago. Expect an answer from her one of these days.
Last night, was a typical tropical evening. The moon was shinning and it was very pretty outside. That part of it looked like the South Sea Island pictures you see.
Heard that Pop was fairly sick for a time. Say Pop, why don’t you write? Like to hear from you to. Got a letter from Grandma the other day. She told of Keith enjoying New York and also Washington D.C. Am going to the Red Cross now, will write more later.
Well am back now. Sort of wish I hadn’t gone. Am dead tired now. We looked at several magazines and then came back.
Am going to send you some money in a couple of days. Tell me when you receive the money order. Well guess I shall close for now. Write soon and very often, please.
Love
Bill Return to top
4/5/44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well I feel real good this evening. Received six letters this evening. Two of them were from you, Pop. Sure very good to receive them.
About your question. The islands aren’t dreary and swampy but they aren’t pretty either. It is hotter than hell here. This is the tropic, you know. Haven’t seen any snakes but here there are some here. Don’t know the specie There aren’t any monkeys that I know off. Natives are friendly and good “joes.” Wish I could be around for you to fire questions at. Great experience out here.
Thanks for the paper clippings. Wisc. sure got ruined in that one fight. They should have won from the paper.
So you need some help? Will be there pretty soon to help you. I hope. Thanks for the advice. Guess I will write to both of you more often, even if it is only a note. So you are a fireman now? Also glad to hear that you are going into the Masonic Lodge. Sure are a busy man aren’t you? I can imagine you sleeping just a little bit. So Jenkings(?) are moving to California. If they go any lower than L.A. they won’t like it at all.
Hope for Earl’s sake that Allen doesn’t have to go. He is doing his part right where he is. It will really be tough on him.
Keith is having a real time, isn’t he? Seeing the East and also Yale University. Have been thinking of going to college after I get out of here.
Got four letters from June also. She had quite a bit to say. Got the pipe you sent. It arrived in good shape. Thanks a lot for the pipe. Guess this is for now. Things are fine and a beautiful evening tonight. Don’t worry about me. Am fairly busy. The fellows are shooting the breeze now so will close.
Love
Bill
Dear Mr. Keithley,
I thought I would write you a few lines in Bill’s letter. He is my best buddy and he is a swell fellow. A buddy is a great thing to have out here. You have a perfect right to be proud of your son he is a good fellow and I’m sure he will make out o.k. here. He is fine and in good humor So you don’t have to worry about him at all. The only times he gets to feeling down in the dumps is when he doesn’t get mail.
I don’t know why I wanted to write to you tonight except that I just wanted to tell you I think Bill is one swell fellow. Guess I’ll close this. Good night Mr. Keithley.
Respectfully
Harley Lamke Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well I feel real good this evening. Received six letters this evening. Two of them were from you, Pop. Sure very good to receive them.
About your question. The islands aren’t dreary and swampy but they aren’t pretty either. It is hotter than hell here. This is the tropic, you know. Haven’t seen any snakes but here there are some here. Don’t know the specie There aren’t any monkeys that I know off. Natives are friendly and good “joes.” Wish I could be around for you to fire questions at. Great experience out here.
Thanks for the paper clippings. Wisc. sure got ruined in that one fight. They should have won from the paper.
So you need some help? Will be there pretty soon to help you. I hope. Thanks for the advice. Guess I will write to both of you more often, even if it is only a note. So you are a fireman now? Also glad to hear that you are going into the Masonic Lodge. Sure are a busy man aren’t you? I can imagine you sleeping just a little bit. So Jenkings(?) are moving to California. If they go any lower than L.A. they won’t like it at all.
Hope for Earl’s sake that Allen doesn’t have to go. He is doing his part right where he is. It will really be tough on him.
Keith is having a real time, isn’t he? Seeing the East and also Yale University. Have been thinking of going to college after I get out of here.
Got four letters from June also. She had quite a bit to say. Got the pipe you sent. It arrived in good shape. Thanks a lot for the pipe. Guess this is for now. Things are fine and a beautiful evening tonight. Don’t worry about me. Am fairly busy. The fellows are shooting the breeze now so will close.
Love
Bill
Dear Mr. Keithley,
I thought I would write you a few lines in Bill’s letter. He is my best buddy and he is a swell fellow. A buddy is a great thing to have out here. You have a perfect right to be proud of your son he is a good fellow and I’m sure he will make out o.k. here. He is fine and in good humor So you don’t have to worry about him at all. The only times he gets to feeling down in the dumps is when he doesn’t get mail.
I don’t know why I wanted to write to you tonight except that I just wanted to tell you I think Bill is one swell fellow. Guess I’ll close this. Good night Mr. Keithley.
Respectfully
Harley Lamke Return to top
4/6/44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well am writing this letter from the (whited out). I am all along tonight. There are usually two of us, but this evening couldn’t find the other fellows.
Just finished a letter to June. Took me quite awhile to write it because I had to take a truck and drive around the (whited out) picking up (whited out) at different places.
Got an Easter card and a couple of letters from June. The Easter card was quite the thing. It was really nice.
Have just had some work to do Lt. bought back some (whited out) so had to take care of some book work. Sort of like it too.
Tomorrow morning some of the fellows are going fishing. All of us are going, but just a certain amount at a time. I will go later. We have tomorrow afternoon off, being it is Good Friday. Hope you have a nice Easter, even if this does arrive to late to be on the day.
So Hoff has left for the Marines also. What is the drag(?} that they are all leaving for the corps? To bad he didn’t finish school. Sure am glad I did now. I know what it means to have finished H.S. Just had an other interruption.
How is everyone around home? Still haven’t heard from Tom. He is probably pretty busy though.
I brought out 2 more mail stamps and in the hustle and bustle, have lost one so will have to get one in the morning.
Got paid today. Received $35 so you can be expecting a money order in one of my letters. As soon as I get the money order. Be sure and write and tell me of your receiving the money.
Well can’t think of any more so will close. Take care of yourselves and I will do the same.
Your son
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well am writing this letter from the (whited out). I am all along tonight. There are usually two of us, but this evening couldn’t find the other fellows.
Just finished a letter to June. Took me quite awhile to write it because I had to take a truck and drive around the (whited out) picking up (whited out) at different places.
Got an Easter card and a couple of letters from June. The Easter card was quite the thing. It was really nice.
Have just had some work to do Lt. bought back some (whited out) so had to take care of some book work. Sort of like it too.
Tomorrow morning some of the fellows are going fishing. All of us are going, but just a certain amount at a time. I will go later. We have tomorrow afternoon off, being it is Good Friday. Hope you have a nice Easter, even if this does arrive to late to be on the day.
So Hoff has left for the Marines also. What is the drag(?} that they are all leaving for the corps? To bad he didn’t finish school. Sure am glad I did now. I know what it means to have finished H.S. Just had an other interruption.
How is everyone around home? Still haven’t heard from Tom. He is probably pretty busy though.
I brought out 2 more mail stamps and in the hustle and bustle, have lost one so will have to get one in the morning.
Got paid today. Received $35 so you can be expecting a money order in one of my letters. As soon as I get the money order. Be sure and write and tell me of your receiving the money.
Well can’t think of any more so will close. Take care of yourselves and I will do the same.
Your son
Bill Return to top
8 Apr. 44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Here I am in the staff mess writing this letter. Am listening to the radio. The program on his Hope, Garland, and Sinatra. It is a darn good program. It sure is another beautiful evening here. Most be full moon or something because the moon is really pretty.
We today are worked only a half a day. Had this afternoon off, so caught up on some of my sack time. Slept all afternoon and it sure was nice. At the present time the hit parade is on. It is a rebroadcasting.
Tomorrow I am going up the island to get some stuff for Seely, our M. Gy sarge. He is a swell fellow. Harley is going along. At the present time, Sinatra is singing. He isn’t bad, but don’t quite compare to Crosby.
Haven’t gotten and letters for a couple of days now, but tomorrow is another day and therefore hope again.
Am sending the money order in this letter. Be sure and let me know when it arrives. Put is to use as I wrote in the other letter.
How is everyone including yourself? Will write to June and also Grandmom tonight. It sure was warm today.
Guess I am going fishing Mon day. Don’t know for sure yet. Haven’t been swimming for quite some time, so maybe will get the chance. Hope so anyway. Well things to write about in this one sided conversation are running out, so will close for now. Don’t worry. Everything is just fine and have never felt better.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Here I am in the staff mess writing this letter. Am listening to the radio. The program on his Hope, Garland, and Sinatra. It is a darn good program. It sure is another beautiful evening here. Most be full moon or something because the moon is really pretty.
We today are worked only a half a day. Had this afternoon off, so caught up on some of my sack time. Slept all afternoon and it sure was nice. At the present time the hit parade is on. It is a rebroadcasting.
Tomorrow I am going up the island to get some stuff for Seely, our M. Gy sarge. He is a swell fellow. Harley is going along. At the present time, Sinatra is singing. He isn’t bad, but don’t quite compare to Crosby.
Haven’t gotten and letters for a couple of days now, but tomorrow is another day and therefore hope again.
Am sending the money order in this letter. Be sure and let me know when it arrives. Put is to use as I wrote in the other letter.
How is everyone including yourself? Will write to June and also Grandmom tonight. It sure was warm today.
Guess I am going fishing Mon day. Don’t know for sure yet. Haven’t been swimming for quite some time, so maybe will get the chance. Hope so anyway. Well things to write about in this one sided conversation are running out, so will close for now. Don’t worry. Everything is just fine and have never felt better.
Love
Bill Return to top
9 April 44
7:50 P.M.
Dear Mom & Dad,
Just time on my hands so figured I would write, even if a short letter. Have wrote a letter to June. The radio is playing so if things don’t match, just blame it on the radio.
Today Harley and I went up to see his buddy who is in the navy. Had quite a time there, talking, reading, playing basketball etc. We also ate chow there this evening. Good meal too. When we started back, it began to rain and I got drenched because I didn’t take my raincoat along with me. We finally got back and Harley went to the show. Can’t see going to a show, let along in the rain. Charley McCarthy just came on the radio. It should be a fairly good program compared to the others.
Quite an Easter Sunday here. It was raining and dreary all day long. Hope you had a much better time. Say there is something that both of you can do for me. Next Sunday you and Mom both go and get a big malted milk and hamburger for me. You will do it, won’t you?
So your line is going pretty slow? Well you are being pushed to much from that angle then. Suppose you would just as soon finish it as to have it hanging around unfinished.
This morning I took it easy again and read some stories. Time sure flies when you do something like that. Time really flies out here anyway. Does it pass as quickly for you?
The Bergum program is really good this morning. At the present time they are in a barber shop. It is a riot.
Say hello to everyone and tell them I am just fine. Am thinking of everyone but can’t write to everyone. Bet you are having pretty good weather back there. Well this is all for now. Am thinking of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
7:50 P.M.
Dear Mom & Dad,
Just time on my hands so figured I would write, even if a short letter. Have wrote a letter to June. The radio is playing so if things don’t match, just blame it on the radio.
Today Harley and I went up to see his buddy who is in the navy. Had quite a time there, talking, reading, playing basketball etc. We also ate chow there this evening. Good meal too. When we started back, it began to rain and I got drenched because I didn’t take my raincoat along with me. We finally got back and Harley went to the show. Can’t see going to a show, let along in the rain. Charley McCarthy just came on the radio. It should be a fairly good program compared to the others.
Quite an Easter Sunday here. It was raining and dreary all day long. Hope you had a much better time. Say there is something that both of you can do for me. Next Sunday you and Mom both go and get a big malted milk and hamburger for me. You will do it, won’t you?
So your line is going pretty slow? Well you are being pushed to much from that angle then. Suppose you would just as soon finish it as to have it hanging around unfinished.
This morning I took it easy again and read some stories. Time sure flies when you do something like that. Time really flies out here anyway. Does it pass as quickly for you?
The Bergum program is really good this morning. At the present time they are in a barber shop. It is a riot.
Say hello to everyone and tell them I am just fine. Am thinking of everyone but can’t write to everyone. Bet you are having pretty good weather back there. Well this is all for now. Am thinking of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
12 April, 44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well today I hit the jackpot. Got four letters, two from you, 1 from June and 1 from Mrs. Martinson. Also a package from you. So you had quite a storm when you were down at (looks like Lisas). Keith is sure getting a lot of schooling out of the Navy, isn’t he? Having a heck of a time here.l Have both of your letters written the 2 and am trying to answer both at once. So guess I will answer yours first Mom and then Dad’s.
Was glad to hear that Mrs. Martinson has finally started to get mail from both of the boys. Got a darn nice letter from her telling of Russ’s decoration. It sure would have been fun seeing that. So you saw the picture “Lassie Come Home.” Would like to see it. Understand it is a good show.
So Rosemary Buechner has left for boot camp. Wonder what Joe thinks of her entering the service. Bet he doesn’t think much of it.
So Sharer and Deitz are in the Navy. I imagine Deitz will get a rank of (anc?} officer but I don’t know about Sharer.
So Ken is a corporal. Good luck.
NOTE: His next page is numbered III; apparently page 2 is missing
We couldn’t get a boat. So we returned the food and went to work. Will go again some day in the future.
Have just about run out of things so guess I will close. Am thinking of you.
Love
Bill
Give me all the scope from home and hope to hear from you soon again. Send some stationery, please. The cookies were swell Mom – see,
Your cookies are wonderful mother. Thanks.
Sgt. A. T. Wehneer
Your cookies boost the morale, and are really delicious. Thanks
Sg. R. W. Holchar.
Dear Mom,
I finally persuaded Bill to let me have “a” cookie. It was very good. It is enough to pay me for the trouble of looking out for your son since he left boot camp. Thanks again!
Pfc. Jack H Harm
Today we received Bill’s cookies, I men Bill received our cookies ---oh well anyway the cookies were swell. Thanks.
Cpl. Harley A. Lamke Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well today I hit the jackpot. Got four letters, two from you, 1 from June and 1 from Mrs. Martinson. Also a package from you. So you had quite a storm when you were down at (looks like Lisas). Keith is sure getting a lot of schooling out of the Navy, isn’t he? Having a heck of a time here.l Have both of your letters written the 2 and am trying to answer both at once. So guess I will answer yours first Mom and then Dad’s.
Was glad to hear that Mrs. Martinson has finally started to get mail from both of the boys. Got a darn nice letter from her telling of Russ’s decoration. It sure would have been fun seeing that. So you saw the picture “Lassie Come Home.” Would like to see it. Understand it is a good show.
So Rosemary Buechner has left for boot camp. Wonder what Joe thinks of her entering the service. Bet he doesn’t think much of it.
So Sharer and Deitz are in the Navy. I imagine Deitz will get a rank of (anc?} officer but I don’t know about Sharer.
So Ken is a corporal. Good luck.
NOTE: His next page is numbered III; apparently page 2 is missing
We couldn’t get a boat. So we returned the food and went to work. Will go again some day in the future.
Have just about run out of things so guess I will close. Am thinking of you.
Love
Bill
Give me all the scope from home and hope to hear from you soon again. Send some stationery, please. The cookies were swell Mom – see,
Your cookies are wonderful mother. Thanks.
Sgt. A. T. Wehneer
Your cookies boost the morale, and are really delicious. Thanks
Sg. R. W. Holchar.
Dear Mom,
I finally persuaded Bill to let me have “a” cookie. It was very good. It is enough to pay me for the trouble of looking out for your son since he left boot camp. Thanks again!
Pfc. Jack H Harm
Today we received Bill’s cookies, I men Bill received our cookies ---oh well anyway the cookies were swell. Thanks.
Cpl. Harley A. Lamke Return to top
18 April, 44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your v mail that you sent the 7th of the month. Sure was glad to hear from you because I haven’t had any letters for four days. So you are having real spring weather? So are we!
This evening I have the watch at the (whited out). This is where I am writing this letter. Time Out. Just had a little lapse of a ½ hour while I took in some ammunition .
Work is coming along just fine here. The dump is looking pretty good, so don’t have to work as hard. Hope your work is coming along as nicely. How is your line coming along, Pa? Have you been stuck lately with the truck?
So the class play is coming off Friday evening! Remember when I was studying for that thing? Sure was fun to be in it too.
Hope you go see it. So Janice got my address! Hope she writes pretty soon. Will be glad to hear from her.
Gee, you ought to see the sun setting. It is really nice this evening. Have just light the lanterns in anticipation of darker hours.
When is graduation this year, or haven’t you heard? Give me the date on that if you will . So Fink went to the farm to keep out of the draft. That is a very patriotic move, I should say. Seems there are a certain amount of people like that all over.
What is news on Keith? Probably haven’t heard from him yet. Bet he is having a great time if he isn’t to sick from being away from home.
There is a band playing not so far from here and I can hear it very plain. Sure sounds nice.
I wrote to Miss Biddick the other evening. It was a big letter so she ought to be pretty pleased about it. Told her not to read it over the loudspeaker but you know what teachers will do.
Say hello to Joe Swiggum. Also say hi to Henby{?} the next time you see him. Tell him I was sorry to hear of the fire in the building.
I told Harley hello for both of you. He hasn’t been feeling very well lately. Has had some kidney trouble.
Last evening each one of us got nine cakes. That was really a treat. Almost all of mine have disappeared. Guess this is all for now. Think of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your v mail that you sent the 7th of the month. Sure was glad to hear from you because I haven’t had any letters for four days. So you are having real spring weather? So are we!
This evening I have the watch at the (whited out). This is where I am writing this letter. Time Out. Just had a little lapse of a ½ hour while I took in some ammunition .
Work is coming along just fine here. The dump is looking pretty good, so don’t have to work as hard. Hope your work is coming along as nicely. How is your line coming along, Pa? Have you been stuck lately with the truck?
So the class play is coming off Friday evening! Remember when I was studying for that thing? Sure was fun to be in it too.
Hope you go see it. So Janice got my address! Hope she writes pretty soon. Will be glad to hear from her.
Gee, you ought to see the sun setting. It is really nice this evening. Have just light the lanterns in anticipation of darker hours.
When is graduation this year, or haven’t you heard? Give me the date on that if you will . So Fink went to the farm to keep out of the draft. That is a very patriotic move, I should say. Seems there are a certain amount of people like that all over.
What is news on Keith? Probably haven’t heard from him yet. Bet he is having a great time if he isn’t to sick from being away from home.
There is a band playing not so far from here and I can hear it very plain. Sure sounds nice.
I wrote to Miss Biddick the other evening. It was a big letter so she ought to be pretty pleased about it. Told her not to read it over the loudspeaker but you know what teachers will do.
Say hello to Joe Swiggum. Also say hi to Henby{?} the next time you see him. Tell him I was sorry to hear of the fire in the building.
I told Harley hello for both of you. He hasn’t been feeling very well lately. Has had some kidney trouble.
Last evening each one of us got nine cakes. That was really a treat. Almost all of mine have disappeared. Guess this is all for now. Think of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
20 April 44
6:55 P.M.
Dear Mom Dad,
Am getting an early start this evening in letter writing. Have written one letter to “Joe”. Got a nice long letter from him last evening. He was telling of his furlough and everything. Sure was nice to hear from him. Said he was surprised to hear I am in the same outfit as he was. Says he wished he was back out here. Doesn’t like it at all in the States!!!
Haven’t heard from you for some time. When you do write, don’t send me v. mail. It doesn’t arrive any quicker and it is just a (can’t decipher three words) So when you write please make it a long letter even if you have to go for a couple of days before writing again.
Well today was quite a day out at the dump. It rained all night last night so it was really muddy out there.
Makes it hard to work when it is that way. How is work coming along with both of you? Suppose Pa is still getting the truck stuck in (can’t decipher} deep mud. Should put skies on the truck. Would slid over it then.
How is everyone around there? Bet you are enjoying the class play by now. But according to the difference in time, it won’t be until late tomorrow afternoon here, when you are at the class play. I wish I were there beside you enjoying it. Are you still having nice spring weather. Hope you are. It makes it much nicer.
Jack Tom just arrived in the tent so everything is in an uproar. It was very peaceful here until he arrived. Lamke has gone to the show. Halster has also gone to the show. Holster and I are writing letters.
Hear Germany is really catching it. That is good news. Hope they keep it up. Don’t hear much news about this theater if we are over there. Guess I will close for now and write to Jeanne and June. Am thinking of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
6:55 P.M.
Dear Mom Dad,
Am getting an early start this evening in letter writing. Have written one letter to “Joe”. Got a nice long letter from him last evening. He was telling of his furlough and everything. Sure was nice to hear from him. Said he was surprised to hear I am in the same outfit as he was. Says he wished he was back out here. Doesn’t like it at all in the States!!!
Haven’t heard from you for some time. When you do write, don’t send me v. mail. It doesn’t arrive any quicker and it is just a (can’t decipher three words) So when you write please make it a long letter even if you have to go for a couple of days before writing again.
Well today was quite a day out at the dump. It rained all night last night so it was really muddy out there.
Makes it hard to work when it is that way. How is work coming along with both of you? Suppose Pa is still getting the truck stuck in (can’t decipher} deep mud. Should put skies on the truck. Would slid over it then.
How is everyone around there? Bet you are enjoying the class play by now. But according to the difference in time, it won’t be until late tomorrow afternoon here, when you are at the class play. I wish I were there beside you enjoying it. Are you still having nice spring weather. Hope you are. It makes it much nicer.
Jack Tom just arrived in the tent so everything is in an uproar. It was very peaceful here until he arrived. Lamke has gone to the show. Halster has also gone to the show. Holster and I are writing letters.
Hear Germany is really catching it. That is good news. Hope they keep it up. Don’t hear much news about this theater if we are over there. Guess I will close for now and write to Jeanne and June. Am thinking of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
23rd April 44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Guess it time for me to write. Hope you have had a enjoyable Sunday. This morning I had the watch at the dump. Sure was a busy morning and also miserable hot that it was terrible.
Yesterday afternoon I did a washing that would almost wreck a washing machine here. Was a great relief to get them all clean and dry. Sure seems funny that one more week will end. Another month even here. By the time you receive this it will be in May.
We had some pictures taken quite a while ago and we got them back yesterday. Will try to put in the envelope with this letter. I hope you enjoy the pictures. Haven’t gotten any letters for quite some time now. Hope tomorrow “nite” sees the arrival of some mail. Have you received my money order yet? Be sure and let me know.
What is new around town? Have any of the boys been home? Hear Jacobson got a couple of planes. Can’t believe it at all How are you coming along Dad with the committees which you are on? Suppose you are busy almost every night. How is the line coming along? Suppose they (crossed off) you are busy with it by now. How is Mother is busy also. Say hello to everyone for me. How was the class play? Hope you enjoyed it.
Went to the show this evening and got chased out by the rain. Sure was a good picture tonight too. The mistakes are due to the boys talking and me trying to listen to them too. Well guess I have written about all I can think of. Will write more when I hear from you. Am feeling fine and think of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Guess it time for me to write. Hope you have had a enjoyable Sunday. This morning I had the watch at the dump. Sure was a busy morning and also miserable hot that it was terrible.
Yesterday afternoon I did a washing that would almost wreck a washing machine here. Was a great relief to get them all clean and dry. Sure seems funny that one more week will end. Another month even here. By the time you receive this it will be in May.
We had some pictures taken quite a while ago and we got them back yesterday. Will try to put in the envelope with this letter. I hope you enjoy the pictures. Haven’t gotten any letters for quite some time now. Hope tomorrow “nite” sees the arrival of some mail. Have you received my money order yet? Be sure and let me know.
What is new around town? Have any of the boys been home? Hear Jacobson got a couple of planes. Can’t believe it at all How are you coming along Dad with the committees which you are on? Suppose you are busy almost every night. How is the line coming along? Suppose they (crossed off) you are busy with it by now. How is Mother is busy also. Say hello to everyone for me. How was the class play? Hope you enjoyed it.
Went to the show this evening and got chased out by the rain. Sure was a good picture tonight too. The mistakes are due to the boys talking and me trying to listen to them too. Well guess I have written about all I can think of. Will write more when I hear from you. Am feeling fine and think of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
25. April 44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your letters of the 10th today. Was darn glad to receive them to., How are things around home? Bet you are having good spring weather. Are you out in garden scratching around in the garden yet? You don’t like raking the leaves. Well you will have to get used to that because when I get home I doubt that I will be doing that. For about one month I will just rest and sleep on a soft bed. That is going to be my hobby. How do you like that?
What is the matter with everyone around there? Must be a hospital plague around there. So Grevies have had a baby! Maybe that will settle Jerry down somewhat. Today I didn’t go to work but instead went to sick bay to see about a possible hernia. Didn’t have one, but have a strain in my stomach so will be getting light work for quite a time. So don’t worry everything will be alright.
What in the world did Pete Olson do to deserve what he got? So Mr. Robert show has gotten into some more trouble. Doesn’t surprise me one bit. Thanks for the papers, clippings. They are really swell to get and receive (crossed out) read. So two of the Whalen boys got home at the same time. Bet that was a great surprise. Charlie is a Captain now.
Well today is another very typical day of the tropics. Hot and the sun had no mercy on a person.
So you haven’t heard from Keith lately. Suppose he is busy and exploring the East. I got a letter from (can’t decipher name) the other day. I was an old one but he told me he was going where Syl is. Don’t suppose he is there by now. Haven’t heard from Syl and Russ, yet. Don’t suppose it has been time yet for a return letter. Well guess I shall quit for now. I’m thinking of both of you all the time.
Love
Bill
P.S. Hope you enjoyed the pictures!! Let me know what you thought of them. Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your letters of the 10th today. Was darn glad to receive them to., How are things around home? Bet you are having good spring weather. Are you out in garden scratching around in the garden yet? You don’t like raking the leaves. Well you will have to get used to that because when I get home I doubt that I will be doing that. For about one month I will just rest and sleep on a soft bed. That is going to be my hobby. How do you like that?
What is the matter with everyone around there? Must be a hospital plague around there. So Grevies have had a baby! Maybe that will settle Jerry down somewhat. Today I didn’t go to work but instead went to sick bay to see about a possible hernia. Didn’t have one, but have a strain in my stomach so will be getting light work for quite a time. So don’t worry everything will be alright.
What in the world did Pete Olson do to deserve what he got? So Mr. Robert show has gotten into some more trouble. Doesn’t surprise me one bit. Thanks for the papers, clippings. They are really swell to get and receive (crossed out) read. So two of the Whalen boys got home at the same time. Bet that was a great surprise. Charlie is a Captain now.
Well today is another very typical day of the tropics. Hot and the sun had no mercy on a person.
So you haven’t heard from Keith lately. Suppose he is busy and exploring the East. I got a letter from (can’t decipher name) the other day. I was an old one but he told me he was going where Syl is. Don’t suppose he is there by now. Haven’t heard from Syl and Russ, yet. Don’t suppose it has been time yet for a return letter. Well guess I shall quit for now. I’m thinking of both of you all the time.
Love
Bill
P.S. Hope you enjoyed the pictures!! Let me know what you thought of them. Return to top
27th April 44
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your letter mailed the 10th and also your package containing the flint and so forth for the lighter. Sure was darn swell of you to think of everything for the lighter. Also got a letter from Loren(?), Russ and James. A couple of old letters from February were also included.
Russ told of his experience. Just about got hit by a piece of flak that went through his gun turret. He was lucky again. Hope it continues to go his way. So he can’t write letters when he is at a rest place. Seems sort of queer doesn’t it? He is planning on coming home soon Hope to heck that he makes it. Hope I don’t have to spend anymore time out here than he has, but know that it will be longer.
So Bill Thousand got a furlough out of “[can’t decipher] camp.” Lucky now when I look back to then am darn glad I didn’t have a chance for eng.{?} Will make the one coming up.longer and a more enjoyable one Well I hope Bill gets into a good thing when he gets the air corps.
The govt. really broke down and are letting you people have a few pleasures of life again, Huh? Bet you are pretty happy over the whole thing? The letter Tom wrote was an old one. It was written in February.
Well so now you are attending to Weddings and also going on a buying spree? How did you like the wedding? Glad to hear that you received four of my letters in succession. Bet you were pretty happy. Know how I would feel on getting four from you and Dad. So my allotments arrive at the first of every month. That is fine. If you want to use them to get anything, just go ahead. Will be glad when your pack(?) of candy arrives. The fellows are taking very good care of me and pray that I won’t eat too much of it and get a tummy ache. Sgt. Holder is saying thanks ahead of time of the arriving box of candy.
Well today I went back to work. Didn’t do much, just supervised a job out in the dump. Won’t be having any hard work for quite some time. Sure would be nice to get out and (can’t decipher word) again. Last evening it rained like everything, made it very miserable out at the dump. Well guess this is all for now. Am thinking of you all the time.
Your loving son
Bill Return to top
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your letter mailed the 10th and also your package containing the flint and so forth for the lighter. Sure was darn swell of you to think of everything for the lighter. Also got a letter from Loren(?), Russ and James. A couple of old letters from February were also included.
Russ told of his experience. Just about got hit by a piece of flak that went through his gun turret. He was lucky again. Hope it continues to go his way. So he can’t write letters when he is at a rest place. Seems sort of queer doesn’t it? He is planning on coming home soon Hope to heck that he makes it. Hope I don’t have to spend anymore time out here than he has, but know that it will be longer.
So Bill Thousand got a furlough out of “[can’t decipher] camp.” Lucky now when I look back to then am darn glad I didn’t have a chance for eng.{?} Will make the one coming up.longer and a more enjoyable one Well I hope Bill gets into a good thing when he gets the air corps.
The govt. really broke down and are letting you people have a few pleasures of life again, Huh? Bet you are pretty happy over the whole thing? The letter Tom wrote was an old one. It was written in February.
Well so now you are attending to Weddings and also going on a buying spree? How did you like the wedding? Glad to hear that you received four of my letters in succession. Bet you were pretty happy. Know how I would feel on getting four from you and Dad. So my allotments arrive at the first of every month. That is fine. If you want to use them to get anything, just go ahead. Will be glad when your pack(?) of candy arrives. The fellows are taking very good care of me and pray that I won’t eat too much of it and get a tummy ache. Sgt. Holder is saying thanks ahead of time of the arriving box of candy.
Well today I went back to work. Didn’t do much, just supervised a job out in the dump. Won’t be having any hard work for quite some time. Sure would be nice to get out and (can’t decipher word) again. Last evening it rained like everything, made it very miserable out at the dump. Well guess this is all for now. Am thinking of you all the time.
Your loving son
Bill Return to top
30 – April – 44
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad,
Here is the last letter of this month, and the last day of this month. Today a fellow dropped around selling bracelets. I bought one for you so hope you will appreciate it. Hope it will arrive in time for Mothers Day. If it doesn’t, it will still be your present for the occasion. Had to borrow the $20 dollars but it is soon payday. Say, Mom when you receive it, take it to the jewelry store and have them put some good clasp pin on the set, will you?
Yesterday and the day before I received a bunch of old mail. Today’s mail was all new. In the old mail, I got a letter from Jeanne, Ken and Stout. The letter from all three of them were real interesting. Ken was telling of his furloughs in L.A. and meeting Joe and so on.
Last evening, had the watch out at the dump. Had quite a time too. We had retired for the evening when a Lt. called up and asked some foolish questions. Then early in the morning, we had to issue out some ammunition . We have started to work harder now. Some of the fellows had to work today, but I was fortunate in not having to.
During the day, I washed a few clothes, and the rest of the time I laid around reading the Bible.
At this particular minute, it is thundering just like it does back home. Sure sounds nice too. How is the spring weather coming along? You are probably getting around to planting the garden.
The radio over in the staff really sounds very nice. They got it fixed. Guess it had a burnt out tube. Got quite a poem the other day so will keep it and show it to you when I arrive home. It is a poem written by a Seabee up at one of the islands.
Is the neighbor boy still keeping you awake at night? Thought there was a curfew back there? Have you heard from Keith lately? Got the Cardinal Highlights today. It was really nice getting some school news. Hear they are playing baseball already! Let me know of the outcome, will you? Guess this is all for now. Give you all my greetings for Mother’s Day.
Love
Bill Return to top
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad,
Here is the last letter of this month, and the last day of this month. Today a fellow dropped around selling bracelets. I bought one for you so hope you will appreciate it. Hope it will arrive in time for Mothers Day. If it doesn’t, it will still be your present for the occasion. Had to borrow the $20 dollars but it is soon payday. Say, Mom when you receive it, take it to the jewelry store and have them put some good clasp pin on the set, will you?
Yesterday and the day before I received a bunch of old mail. Today’s mail was all new. In the old mail, I got a letter from Jeanne, Ken and Stout. The letter from all three of them were real interesting. Ken was telling of his furloughs in L.A. and meeting Joe and so on.
Last evening, had the watch out at the dump. Had quite a time too. We had retired for the evening when a Lt. called up and asked some foolish questions. Then early in the morning, we had to issue out some ammunition . We have started to work harder now. Some of the fellows had to work today, but I was fortunate in not having to.
During the day, I washed a few clothes, and the rest of the time I laid around reading the Bible.
At this particular minute, it is thundering just like it does back home. Sure sounds nice too. How is the spring weather coming along? You are probably getting around to planting the garden.
The radio over in the staff really sounds very nice. They got it fixed. Guess it had a burnt out tube. Got quite a poem the other day so will keep it and show it to you when I arrive home. It is a poem written by a Seabee up at one of the islands.
Is the neighbor boy still keeping you awake at night? Thought there was a curfew back there? Have you heard from Keith lately? Got the Cardinal Highlights today. It was really nice getting some school news. Hear they are playing baseball already! Let me know of the outcome, will you? Guess this is all for now. Give you all my greetings for Mother’s Day.
Love
Bill Return to top
May 2, 1944
North of the South Pole and
South of the North Pole.
(exact isn’t it?}
Dear Mom & Dad:
Will answer your letters I got last night, from the 16 & 17th. From the sound of your letter, you must be having terrible spring weather. Hope it isn’t that way now!
Well these last few days have really been nice. Last night got 8 letters and tonight 1 letter. 1 paper, 3 packages. One from you and thanks a million for it. The fellows all said thanks for the candy bars they got from me. They were really swell, too.
So Pa, you are out working on the High Line again? Bet you are in your glory now, even though you are tired at the end of everyday. So Bohle got hurt! Accidents will happen you know.
The letter I received from Syl was a great letter. A little cut up but still interesting. I think from the way he talked, that he has seen action. He has left the place where he used to be.
Ken’s letter was about the same. He is a mail clerk and gets an additional $15 every month. Sure is a money making proposition , isn’t it? He is still hoping to get out here soon. Has his heart set on it.
This evening Harley and I went to the show, only to be chased away by the rain. It happens every time I got. That is just my luck though.
Yesterday we got a shot in the arm for something. My arms will be like pin cushions before long. The shot really hurt for about five minutes. But after that it hasn’t bothered any.
The paper contained a lot of welcomed news. Was glad to hear of some of the fellows being around. So Dean came home to see his Mother? Hope she is much better by now. How did he look when he was home?
The same old thing today, work. Was a little “soupy” out there. but not too bad. Things here are just fine. Am feeling the same as ever. Hope both of you are in the pink of condition. Guess this is all for now. Am thinking of both of you.
Love
Bill Return to top
North of the South Pole and
South of the North Pole.
(exact isn’t it?}
Dear Mom & Dad:
Will answer your letters I got last night, from the 16 & 17th. From the sound of your letter, you must be having terrible spring weather. Hope it isn’t that way now!
Well these last few days have really been nice. Last night got 8 letters and tonight 1 letter. 1 paper, 3 packages. One from you and thanks a million for it. The fellows all said thanks for the candy bars they got from me. They were really swell, too.
So Pa, you are out working on the High Line again? Bet you are in your glory now, even though you are tired at the end of everyday. So Bohle got hurt! Accidents will happen you know.
The letter I received from Syl was a great letter. A little cut up but still interesting. I think from the way he talked, that he has seen action. He has left the place where he used to be.
Ken’s letter was about the same. He is a mail clerk and gets an additional $15 every month. Sure is a money making proposition , isn’t it? He is still hoping to get out here soon. Has his heart set on it.
This evening Harley and I went to the show, only to be chased away by the rain. It happens every time I got. That is just my luck though.
Yesterday we got a shot in the arm for something. My arms will be like pin cushions before long. The shot really hurt for about five minutes. But after that it hasn’t bothered any.
The paper contained a lot of welcomed news. Was glad to hear of some of the fellows being around. So Dean came home to see his Mother? Hope she is much better by now. How did he look when he was home?
The same old thing today, work. Was a little “soupy” out there. but not too bad. Things here are just fine. Am feeling the same as ever. Hope both of you are in the pink of condition. Guess this is all for now. Am thinking of both of you.
Love
Bill Return to top
May 4, 1944
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad & germlins[?].
Received a couple of letters from you again this evening. Sure was a happy boy again. So you got completely soaked going to the show? That was rough, wasn’t it? If you are going to fix a lamp again, why not try and keep it in one little pile? Ha.
About the lawn – had better get hot and get it raked. That is your job now. I have graduated from those jobs now. Say Pa, what do you think of the “Chanty”. Darn nice place isn’t it?
Got a letter from Luella last evening. Was a very nice letter and long too. Told about Russ and Syl. Said Russ had been expecting to go home fairly soon.
Am glad you are sending the Capital Times. It will be interesting to read. Got the Mt. Horeb paper the other day. All I could see was army all over it. Where were the marines?
I gave the fellows in the tent your greetings. They all said to say hello. Things re just fine here. Before I forget it, don’t send any more packages for a while until I let you know again.
So they are even stealing eggs right out of cars! Bet the lady was just a little “peeved” over the incident. You seem to be getting very secretive over the things you send me. Hope the package arrives safely.
Got the newspaper clipping of Capt. Wheeler getting married. Sure was a great surprise. So Hoff has left. Guess that should put quite a crimp in the number of fellows from around there. I enjoyed your letter where you told of Keith’s getting piano legs from climbing the hills out East. That was pretty good.
I don’t know where all the fellows have disappeared to, but there is only Ham and myself in the tent now. Both of us are writing so it is real quiet in here. Will quit now. Think of you all the time and keep the letters coming.
Love
Bill Return to top
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad & germlins[?].
Received a couple of letters from you again this evening. Sure was a happy boy again. So you got completely soaked going to the show? That was rough, wasn’t it? If you are going to fix a lamp again, why not try and keep it in one little pile? Ha.
About the lawn – had better get hot and get it raked. That is your job now. I have graduated from those jobs now. Say Pa, what do you think of the “Chanty”. Darn nice place isn’t it?
Got a letter from Luella last evening. Was a very nice letter and long too. Told about Russ and Syl. Said Russ had been expecting to go home fairly soon.
Am glad you are sending the Capital Times. It will be interesting to read. Got the Mt. Horeb paper the other day. All I could see was army all over it. Where were the marines?
I gave the fellows in the tent your greetings. They all said to say hello. Things re just fine here. Before I forget it, don’t send any more packages for a while until I let you know again.
So they are even stealing eggs right out of cars! Bet the lady was just a little “peeved” over the incident. You seem to be getting very secretive over the things you send me. Hope the package arrives safely.
Got the newspaper clipping of Capt. Wheeler getting married. Sure was a great surprise. So Hoff has left. Guess that should put quite a crimp in the number of fellows from around there. I enjoyed your letter where you told of Keith’s getting piano legs from climbing the hills out East. That was pretty good.
I don’t know where all the fellows have disappeared to, but there is only Ham and myself in the tent now. Both of us are writing so it is real quiet in here. Will quit now. Think of you all the time and keep the letters coming.
Love
Bill Return to top
May 9, 1944
Southwest Pacific
Dear Folks,
Well here I am again, in a one sided conversation having not received mail for quite some time. I don’t have too much to say.
This evening it is thundering and raining a little. Just for a change. I am printing. We have been working fairly regular lately. Things here are just fine. Am feeling good. Have to pay the dentist a visit fairly soon and you know how I feel about that.
The town still holding together? Hope so! Don’t suppose there is too much news from there but every little bit will be greatly appreciated.
Have you heard from Keith lately? Does he still have a hard time climbing the hills out there? Are the crops planted yet? The farmers probably got a late start this year.
How are things coming with both of you? Hope they are just fine. What about the line? Is it finished yet? Bet you are still working on it. Say mom have you had any incidents like the one you wrote me, about? Will probably have F.B.I. man out pretty soon. Ha
Tomorrow night I have the watch at the ammo dump. Will write you from there.
Just had a little lunch a while ago. Had drink and everything. Sure was good too. Have you heard anything about Russ’s coming home? Hope he gets there soon. Well, guess this is all for now. Will close for now. Think of you all the time.
Love
Bill
P.S. JackHam says hello to all of you. Return to top
Southwest Pacific
Dear Folks,
Well here I am again, in a one sided conversation having not received mail for quite some time. I don’t have too much to say.
This evening it is thundering and raining a little. Just for a change. I am printing. We have been working fairly regular lately. Things here are just fine. Am feeling good. Have to pay the dentist a visit fairly soon and you know how I feel about that.
The town still holding together? Hope so! Don’t suppose there is too much news from there but every little bit will be greatly appreciated.
Have you heard from Keith lately? Does he still have a hard time climbing the hills out there? Are the crops planted yet? The farmers probably got a late start this year.
How are things coming with both of you? Hope they are just fine. What about the line? Is it finished yet? Bet you are still working on it. Say mom have you had any incidents like the one you wrote me, about? Will probably have F.B.I. man out pretty soon. Ha
Tomorrow night I have the watch at the ammo dump. Will write you from there.
Just had a little lunch a while ago. Had drink and everything. Sure was good too. Have you heard anything about Russ’s coming home? Hope he gets there soon. Well, guess this is all for now. Will close for now. Think of you all the time.
Love
Bill
P.S. JackHam says hello to all of you. Return to top
May 10, 1944
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well, in the letter last night, I promised to write and so here goes. Happy as everything tonight got five letters, two from you and three from June. June sent some pictures that she had taken out home. The snow in front of the house really looked nice. See you have a service flag up in the window! The pictures were really swell.
So everyone is getting big prices for their work? Personally can’t see those big prices, but guess it is alright. So you have the line all finished, and now I suppose you are doing something else. Am glad to hear you have some work to do also. Ha.
Say, before I forget about it, I sent Mother something. Bet I thought of it long before you [can’t decipher, looks like dfd.] I’m not slipping one bit. So you have finally gotten the lawn raked! Wondered if it would wait until I got home.
Seems you are having a damp spring this year! The grass should look very nice, when it gets warmer. What is the town news? I will probably get it when the papers arrive. So there are a few cases of scarlet fever going around?
Thanks for the clippings on the baseball team. Glad to hear they are doing OK for themselves. Bet Thomas thinks he’s a big wheel now!
So Miss Biddick was happy to receive my letter? Say hello to her and tell her I will write as soon as I receive her letter.
Would have liked to set down to Al. meal like the one you were describing. Fresh ham & fried chiken would really be a treat.
This is really a swell night to write letters. Cool breeze blowing through here all the time. Work is coming along just fine. Kept busy all the time. Everyone here is feeling fine to my knowledge. Guess I will sign off. Good night and am thinking of you all. (Southern} Ham’s pet saying
Love
Bill
P.S. The candy bars arrived in excellent condition. Return to top
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well, in the letter last night, I promised to write and so here goes. Happy as everything tonight got five letters, two from you and three from June. June sent some pictures that she had taken out home. The snow in front of the house really looked nice. See you have a service flag up in the window! The pictures were really swell.
So everyone is getting big prices for their work? Personally can’t see those big prices, but guess it is alright. So you have the line all finished, and now I suppose you are doing something else. Am glad to hear you have some work to do also. Ha.
Say, before I forget about it, I sent Mother something. Bet I thought of it long before you [can’t decipher, looks like dfd.] I’m not slipping one bit. So you have finally gotten the lawn raked! Wondered if it would wait until I got home.
Seems you are having a damp spring this year! The grass should look very nice, when it gets warmer. What is the town news? I will probably get it when the papers arrive. So there are a few cases of scarlet fever going around?
Thanks for the clippings on the baseball team. Glad to hear they are doing OK for themselves. Bet Thomas thinks he’s a big wheel now!
So Miss Biddick was happy to receive my letter? Say hello to her and tell her I will write as soon as I receive her letter.
Would have liked to set down to Al. meal like the one you were describing. Fresh ham & fried chiken would really be a treat.
This is really a swell night to write letters. Cool breeze blowing through here all the time. Work is coming along just fine. Kept busy all the time. Everyone here is feeling fine to my knowledge. Guess I will sign off. Good night and am thinking of you all. (Southern} Ham’s pet saying
Love
Bill
P.S. The candy bars arrived in excellent condition. Return to top
May 12, 944
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received two letters from you today. Sure was swell too. They were mailed the 3rd and 4th. That was pretty good time, wasn’t it.
So you received the picture of our group and liked it? Glad you did . Could Pa recognize me on the picture. Ha We had another picture taken today. They were taken out at the dump. All of us were just black from the dust. That will really be a picture.
Keith is coming along O.K. from the information you gave me. That is O.K. He should get the breaks. He’s smart and had the education. Bet he is happy the day he receives his officers uniform.
So Janice’s sister has the scarlet fever. Hope she doesn’t get it bad, Might hurt her permanently. Have received a letter from her either yet. That may be the reason.
The prom was the 6th of May huh? Bet the place was really alive that evening! By the time you get this letter school will almost be out. Won’t it? Are you going to the commencement exercise this year? Hope you do.
This is quite an evening. It has rained a couple of times so far. Just like home. So it has been very changeable back home? Well “variety is the spice of life.
Work is coming along just fine. We worked last evening for a short spell. This morning I had off, so just laid around and absorbed some good rest. That is good duty for me.
How is the spring cleaning coming along? Bet you are as busy as a bee! Is your pet squirrel still around? Tell Pa not to worry too much about his degrua{?}. It can’t be to rough.
So Earl is busy trying to get all the planting done. Next time you write, say, he to them for me. Am really lazy about writing. That coupled with a little time really keeps a person moving.
Guess I will close for now. Say hello to everyone. Also any of the servicemen home from around there.,
Love
Bill
P.S.
Am sending you a cartoon out of the Leatherneck. Hope you like it. Return to top
Southwest Pacific
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received two letters from you today. Sure was swell too. They were mailed the 3rd and 4th. That was pretty good time, wasn’t it.
So you received the picture of our group and liked it? Glad you did . Could Pa recognize me on the picture. Ha We had another picture taken today. They were taken out at the dump. All of us were just black from the dust. That will really be a picture.
Keith is coming along O.K. from the information you gave me. That is O.K. He should get the breaks. He’s smart and had the education. Bet he is happy the day he receives his officers uniform.
So Janice’s sister has the scarlet fever. Hope she doesn’t get it bad, Might hurt her permanently. Have received a letter from her either yet. That may be the reason.
The prom was the 6th of May huh? Bet the place was really alive that evening! By the time you get this letter school will almost be out. Won’t it? Are you going to the commencement exercise this year? Hope you do.
This is quite an evening. It has rained a couple of times so far. Just like home. So it has been very changeable back home? Well “variety is the spice of life.
Work is coming along just fine. We worked last evening for a short spell. This morning I had off, so just laid around and absorbed some good rest. That is good duty for me.
How is the spring cleaning coming along? Bet you are as busy as a bee! Is your pet squirrel still around? Tell Pa not to worry too much about his degrua{?}. It can’t be to rough.
So Earl is busy trying to get all the planting done. Next time you write, say, he to them for me. Am really lazy about writing. That coupled with a little time really keeps a person moving.
Guess I will close for now. Say hello to everyone. Also any of the servicemen home from around there.,
Love
Bill
P.S.
Am sending you a cartoon out of the Leatherneck. Hope you like it. Return to top
May 14, 1944
Southwest Pacific
Dear Folks:
Well another day is just about over. Time marches on, doesn’t it? We worked all day today. But tomorrow morning I have off. Will get in some more sack time. If you know what I mean.
Friday I had a very enjoyable surprise. When I came in off the watch at the dump, Quentin Swiggum was in my tent. That was really nice. He was here for about three hrs. We talked about home and he asked where Syl, Russ, and numerous other fellows were. All in all we really had quite a time. The next time either of you see Joe Swiggum, say hello to him and tell him that Quention and I got together and really talked over old times. Will you be sure and do that?
Haven’t received a letter from you for several days now. They must be held up somewhere along the line. Got a letter from June last night. She is the same as ever I guess.
Last night I listened to the Command Performance, Hit Parade and several other good programs. Really had a great time listening to Stateside music.
Heard a statement over the radio that someone was figuring on disbanding the marine Corps. That will never work! This outfit is too good to be broken up.
So you haven’t gotten your Victory garden under way yet! Better get hot and get it done. Those fresh vegetables taste good right out of the garden.
What is news from around there? Has anyone been home lately? How is Henrye coming along now? Hope he is doing O.K.
Did the present arrive for Mother’s Day. Hope so. Will close for now. Am thinking of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
Southwest Pacific
Dear Folks:
Well another day is just about over. Time marches on, doesn’t it? We worked all day today. But tomorrow morning I have off. Will get in some more sack time. If you know what I mean.
Friday I had a very enjoyable surprise. When I came in off the watch at the dump, Quentin Swiggum was in my tent. That was really nice. He was here for about three hrs. We talked about home and he asked where Syl, Russ, and numerous other fellows were. All in all we really had quite a time. The next time either of you see Joe Swiggum, say hello to him and tell him that Quention and I got together and really talked over old times. Will you be sure and do that?
Haven’t received a letter from you for several days now. They must be held up somewhere along the line. Got a letter from June last night. She is the same as ever I guess.
Last night I listened to the Command Performance, Hit Parade and several other good programs. Really had a great time listening to Stateside music.
Heard a statement over the radio that someone was figuring on disbanding the marine Corps. That will never work! This outfit is too good to be broken up.
So you haven’t gotten your Victory garden under way yet! Better get hot and get it done. Those fresh vegetables taste good right out of the garden.
What is news from around there? Has anyone been home lately? How is Henrye coming along now? Hope he is doing O.K.
Did the present arrive for Mother’s Day. Hope so. Will close for now. Am thinking of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
Southwest Pacific
May 24, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received a great bunch of letters from everyone lately. Am just about to try and answer all of them. So you saw a wonderful movie! It must have been great.
So spring is there and and all the little pests also! Great part isn’t it? The neighbors must have had quite a time the other evening. Would like to have been around to hear about it.
Fishing season is just about to open or I should say is open by now. Have you gone yet Pa? Bet you didn’t even get a nibble if you did! So you got a little aggrevated over Mr. Sale bragging about his two sons in the service and still in that country! Ask him sometime, who is winning this war. The boys in the States or the ones over here. (Can understand your view very well.
Yes, It is quite amazing what change can come over a person in a little less than one year. In regard to your wondering over the 5 spot you sent me some time ago – it arrived safely after some delay.
So you had a very enjoyable Mothers Day! Am very pleased to hear of that. So Earl’s were up for dinner too. That should have proved a wonderful Day all around. If you are figuring on buying another car, I would wait a while because then I will have more money In the bank and you can use that too. It will be perfectly all right by me.
So you liked the picture I sent home. Glad you did and you are welcomed for the great appraisal of it. Keith is having a hard time in his training, is he! He had better expect worse than that. When he gets out and has to worry about handling men.
You received the bracelet in good order, did you? Glad to hear about that and also that you liked it very much! Will send you more [cannot decipher, looks like sarweniles] whenever I get the chance. I saw that show you were speaking of in one of your letters. Bill Bendix played in it, didn’t he? Can’t think of the name yet.
The baseball team is doing O.K. for itself. Glad to hear that they won the tournament Guess I will close for now.
Love
Bill Return to top
May 24, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received a great bunch of letters from everyone lately. Am just about to try and answer all of them. So you saw a wonderful movie! It must have been great.
So spring is there and and all the little pests also! Great part isn’t it? The neighbors must have had quite a time the other evening. Would like to have been around to hear about it.
Fishing season is just about to open or I should say is open by now. Have you gone yet Pa? Bet you didn’t even get a nibble if you did! So you got a little aggrevated over Mr. Sale bragging about his two sons in the service and still in that country! Ask him sometime, who is winning this war. The boys in the States or the ones over here. (Can understand your view very well.
Yes, It is quite amazing what change can come over a person in a little less than one year. In regard to your wondering over the 5 spot you sent me some time ago – it arrived safely after some delay.
So you had a very enjoyable Mothers Day! Am very pleased to hear of that. So Earl’s were up for dinner too. That should have proved a wonderful Day all around. If you are figuring on buying another car, I would wait a while because then I will have more money In the bank and you can use that too. It will be perfectly all right by me.
So you liked the picture I sent home. Glad you did and you are welcomed for the great appraisal of it. Keith is having a hard time in his training, is he! He had better expect worse than that. When he gets out and has to worry about handling men.
You received the bracelet in good order, did you? Glad to hear about that and also that you liked it very much! Will send you more [cannot decipher, looks like sarweniles] whenever I get the chance. I saw that show you were speaking of in one of your letters. Bill Bendix played in it, didn’t he? Can’t think of the name yet.
The baseball team is doing O.K. for itself. Glad to hear that they won the tournament Guess I will close for now.
Love
Bill Return to top
Southwest Pacific
May 29, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Got a package and a letter from you today. The letter was sent the 16th of the Month. The candy was in very good shape. Thanks a million for everything.
Got a letter from Russ a couple of evenings ago. He told of having lots of experience at shooting now. He must be having a hot old time. He sent me some pictures and I will send them home to you in this
[can’t decipher] letter if I think of it.
So you have been fairly busy cleaning up the lawn? Glad to hear things are getting cleaned up. I got a paper this evening, but not the Capital Times.
Well, you sure did have some excitement around home there, didn’t you? Glad to hear that the pilots got out of the crash safely.
How is things going at the store? Hope you are kept busy, because that seems to be the way you want it.
Is dad very busy now with his line work? Tell him to take it easy and not hurry.
Heard that several of the fellows were home on furlough. Great life, isn’t it?
Did dad go fishing as yet? Hope he did and I also hope he had better luck than I have ever had. Can’t think of much for this evening. Write soon and I am thinking of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
May 29, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Got a package and a letter from you today. The letter was sent the 16th of the Month. The candy was in very good shape. Thanks a million for everything.
Got a letter from Russ a couple of evenings ago. He told of having lots of experience at shooting now. He must be having a hot old time. He sent me some pictures and I will send them home to you in this
[can’t decipher] letter if I think of it.
So you have been fairly busy cleaning up the lawn? Glad to hear things are getting cleaned up. I got a paper this evening, but not the Capital Times.
Well, you sure did have some excitement around home there, didn’t you? Glad to hear that the pilots got out of the crash safely.
How is things going at the store? Hope you are kept busy, because that seems to be the way you want it.
Is dad very busy now with his line work? Tell him to take it easy and not hurry.
Heard that several of the fellows were home on furlough. Great life, isn’t it?
Did dad go fishing as yet? Hope he did and I also hope he had better luck than I have ever had. Can’t think of much for this evening. Write soon and I am thinking of you all the time.
Love
Bill Return to top
Top of the Letter:
Mr. & Mrs. M. J. Keithley Pfc. W. R Keithley
East Main St. Ord. Co. Marines Div.
Mt. Horeb, Wisc. W.M.K.(?)
(can’t decipher) Fleet postmaster
San Francisco, Calif
[June] 25/44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your v-mail the other day. Will answer it now. Glad to hear that my stuff is under way. Also got a v-mail from Eschal the other day. They seem to be pretty busy. So Dad’s line is going pretty slow. That is the way it is now though.
So Tom is going to teach in Ill. Somewhere! They sure keep him on the move don’t they? It sure is good to read about the snow and ice all around. Wouldn’t mind having some here.
So Keith is going to move again soon. It shouldn’t be too long before he is through with his training.
Love Bill Return to top
Mr. & Mrs. M. J. Keithley Pfc. W. R Keithley
East Main St. Ord. Co. Marines Div.
Mt. Horeb, Wisc. W.M.K.(?)
(can’t decipher) Fleet postmaster
San Francisco, Calif
[June] 25/44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your v-mail the other day. Will answer it now. Glad to hear that my stuff is under way. Also got a v-mail from Eschal the other day. They seem to be pretty busy. So Dad’s line is going pretty slow. That is the way it is now though.
So Tom is going to teach in Ill. Somewhere! They sure keep him on the move don’t they? It sure is good to read about the snow and ice all around. Wouldn’t mind having some here.
So Keith is going to move again soon. It shouldn’t be too long before he is through with his training.
Love Bill Return to top
June 29, 44
Dear Mom & Dad,
How are you? Hope this finds you in good health. Is everything ok around there? What is the news?
It seems as though I am really full of questions, doesn’t it? I am fine and in very good health so don’t worry! The food is also swell.
What is news about Russ? Is he about to go home. The last I heard from him, he was having quite a time with our little friends. Is Ken still in the States, or don’t you know?
Say, the first chance you get tell June I will write at the first opportunity. Say hello to the friends in town and also to the relatives.
How do you like the stationery? Finally got my claws on some and made great haste to purchase it.
Hope you have a pleasant time over the fourth of July.
How many fish have you gotten by now Pa? Wish I were with you on some of those trips.
There are some fellows playing hearts not so far from me and at times the games get a little rough and profanity breaks out. Guess this is all for now. Think of you all the time . Don’t worry about me.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
How are you? Hope this finds you in good health. Is everything ok around there? What is the news?
It seems as though I am really full of questions, doesn’t it? I am fine and in very good health so don’t worry! The food is also swell.
What is news about Russ? Is he about to go home. The last I heard from him, he was having quite a time with our little friends. Is Ken still in the States, or don’t you know?
Say, the first chance you get tell June I will write at the first opportunity. Say hello to the friends in town and also to the relatives.
How do you like the stationery? Finally got my claws on some and made great haste to purchase it.
Hope you have a pleasant time over the fourth of July.
How many fish have you gotten by now Pa? Wish I were with you on some of those trips.
There are some fellows playing hearts not so far from me and at times the games get a little rough and profanity breaks out. Guess this is all for now. Think of you all the time . Don’t worry about me.
Love
Bill Return to top
July 8 – 44
1:00 P.M.
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your letters written on the 18th and they were very interesting. Also got one from Sis and June. Sure am a happy boy!
From what I gathered from your letters, you are certainly having a very wet summer. Dad, that will give you a good picture of Calif. weather.
So Fred is home from Alaska! In the letter I got from Sis, she said that he had bought a farm there by the cemetery. Guess from what she said he was going to apply for work in the Aleutians.
How are your friends – the baby squirals – getting along? Bet you have a great time watching them.
So Paul Thompson is home or was home, I mean. Has he been in Frisco” all the time? Last I heard he was there. Holum is on his way overseas! Bet his mother is throwing fits.
Thanks a million for the $100 war bond. That will help a great deal. Say, the first chance you get, get my ring and send it. Also get a bill fold. One with lots of places to put pictures. Mine got all wet and ruined most of the pictures in it, so send some good pictures with the billfold. Guess this all for now. Am feeling just fine. Hope you are likewise. Think of you all the time.
Love
Bill
P.S. Had a great dinner on the 4th. Return to top
1:00 P.M.
Dear Mom & Dad,
Received your letters written on the 18th and they were very interesting. Also got one from Sis and June. Sure am a happy boy!
From what I gathered from your letters, you are certainly having a very wet summer. Dad, that will give you a good picture of Calif. weather.
So Fred is home from Alaska! In the letter I got from Sis, she said that he had bought a farm there by the cemetery. Guess from what she said he was going to apply for work in the Aleutians.
How are your friends – the baby squirals – getting along? Bet you have a great time watching them.
So Paul Thompson is home or was home, I mean. Has he been in Frisco” all the time? Last I heard he was there. Holum is on his way overseas! Bet his mother is throwing fits.
Thanks a million for the $100 war bond. That will help a great deal. Say, the first chance you get, get my ring and send it. Also get a bill fold. One with lots of places to put pictures. Mine got all wet and ruined most of the pictures in it, so send some good pictures with the billfold. Guess this all for now. Am feeling just fine. Hope you are likewise. Think of you all the time.
Love
Bill
P.S. Had a great dinner on the 4th. Return to top
July 10th 44
Dear Mom & Dad,
Got your letters written the 25th and they were really welcome. Also got one from Grandmother, and June.
You sure are having quite a time with your weather. Read an article in a paper about it. Must have caused quite a bit of damages!
The boys are finally getting home huh? Would enjoy seeing Paul but it can’t be done, so therefore wishing is out. So Stuart is out here, is he? Can’t imagine him overseas, let along a sub!
The clippings from the paper was very interesting. Sure was a good picture of Kathryn Rossiter. She is a very good looking young lady.
The little accident Dad had in church must have been a riot. He sure does have his troubles.
Last night had guard duty. Sure do hate it too.
The breakfast you spoke of really sounded delicious. It will be a great pleasure to get some and eat like that for breakfast.
Well take care of yourself and don’t worry too much.
Love
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Got your letters written the 25th and they were really welcome. Also got one from Grandmother, and June.
You sure are having quite a time with your weather. Read an article in a paper about it. Must have caused quite a bit of damages!
The boys are finally getting home huh? Would enjoy seeing Paul but it can’t be done, so therefore wishing is out. So Stuart is out here, is he? Can’t imagine him overseas, let along a sub!
The clippings from the paper was very interesting. Sure was a good picture of Kathryn Rossiter. She is a very good looking young lady.
The little accident Dad had in church must have been a riot. He sure does have his troubles.
Last night had guard duty. Sure do hate it too.
The breakfast you spoke of really sounded delicious. It will be a great pleasure to get some and eat like that for breakfast.
Well take care of yourself and don’t worry too much.
Love
Bill Return to top
July 14 – 1944
Dear Luella,
Received your letters of the 2nd and 14th of June yesterday. They were really very nice.
By now Russ should have about 55 missions in, shouldn’t he? I would really like to run into him. We would really have a great time.
You are really having some changeable weather aren’t you? Suppose you are getting tired of it too. I heard that the oldest Greve boy was sick. By now he should be well though.
Quinton is just fine. Neve looked or felt any better when he was home.
I also got a letter from Syl in the bunch I received. He seems fine and in very good spirits. Got a large picture of June. It is very nice. It was taken out in front of Forrest Product Lab. There in Madison. Guess this is about all for now. Am feeling just fine and am in good health. Hope you are too.
Bye and Good Luck
Bill Return to top
Dear Luella,
Received your letters of the 2nd and 14th of June yesterday. They were really very nice.
By now Russ should have about 55 missions in, shouldn’t he? I would really like to run into him. We would really have a great time.
You are really having some changeable weather aren’t you? Suppose you are getting tired of it too. I heard that the oldest Greve boy was sick. By now he should be well though.
Quinton is just fine. Neve looked or felt any better when he was home.
I also got a letter from Syl in the bunch I received. He seems fine and in very good spirits. Got a large picture of June. It is very nice. It was taken out in front of Forrest Product Lab. There in Madison. Guess this is about all for now. Am feeling just fine and am in good health. Hope you are too.
Bye and Good Luck
Bill Return to top
July 15, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad,
Here goes again. How are you? Got a bunch of letters from you and have been busy.
Are your pet squirrels still a round” Get they are the berries. You had better quit talking out in the church lawn at night. Seems that someone has to put their nose in where it isn’t wanted.
Pa, you must be having a great time with the light. In town I would really have gotten a kick out of seeing you trapse around. So you didn’t catch any fish. You must be slipping.
I haven’t received any of the package as yet. Glad to hear that you sent any(?) They will come in handy when they arrive.
This is going to be short because I am pretty busy. Bet you really like your present from Grandmother. Joe Buechner is still in the States. Says Durtschi is out on the coast near him. Write soon and lots of love.
Bill Return to top
Dear Mom & Dad,
Here goes again. How are you? Got a bunch of letters from you and have been busy.
Are your pet squirrels still a round” Get they are the berries. You had better quit talking out in the church lawn at night. Seems that someone has to put their nose in where it isn’t wanted.
Pa, you must be having a great time with the light. In town I would really have gotten a kick out of seeing you trapse around. So you didn’t catch any fish. You must be slipping.
I haven’t received any of the package as yet. Glad to hear that you sent any(?) They will come in handy when they arrive.
This is going to be short because I am pretty busy. Bet you really like your present from Grandmother. Joe Buechner is still in the States. Says Durtschi is out on the coast near him. Write soon and lots of love.
Bill Return to top