One of the great things about my job is I get to talk (duh!) to my patients and get to know them and life and history! I always ask where they were born, where they grew up, and I ask them what they did during the War.
One of my patients who currently lives really close to me grew up in Dayton, Ohio! He didn't recognize the family name, and I guess he lived there later than our family members anyway. I got to talking about the war, and I asked how he served.
"I was a navigator in a B-17," he asnwered.
"Really? What bomb group were you in?"
"The 351st."
Cool! So, we talked a little about the 351st. I told him about Jack. "He must've been a little guy," he noted. That's the comment I get every time!
Again, he didn't recognize the family name, but as he said, "It was a long time ago." I got curious and decided to do a little research and found this site: The 351st bomb group website. If you do a search, you won't find Jack. Search instead for the common misspelling. There, you'll find his missions. I've already contacted the person in charge and asked him to correct the spelling.
My patient was in Polebrook a few months before Jack. His last mission was in August, 1944 and Jack began in October of that year.
Hats off to the Veterans!
Showing posts with label WW II. Show all posts
Showing posts with label WW II. Show all posts
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Sunday, December 14, 2008
February 22, 1944; March 3, 1944; March 23, 1944
We find Jack still at Buckley Air Force Base in Colorado in February, 1944.
Feb 22
Dear Ma
I'll try to write you a little note to let you know just what is happening.
We haven't been doing a whole lot of interest just listen to some old dry lecture & maybe see a movie & march. We did see a couple of pretty good movies this after noon in fact we stayed a about 10 inutes of our own time to finishe it they tried to run us out but itwas intersting so we demanded to see it.
We had a snow last night but it didn't amount to much. It was all gone by this afternoon. It did turn up cold & windy today, we are out on the flat so when the wind starts blowing it sure comes in. It also got rather dusty while we were out practice firing.
I don't remember if I told you but I want into Denver Sun & spent the whole sum of 20 cents. Thayt was spend on getting party way into town. I thumbed the rest of the way.
about my income tax you said I never included the doctor bill & etc. I tried but it didn't work this kid isn't so dumb he will try any thing to beat it but it didn't do so good this year. I tried to get more deductions but thats all I could get.
So you had quite a time in Alb. Well happy day you never did say if the runts went with you or not from what I took I guessed they did.
So Wayne wrote & told the folks that he was single--well I didn't think he would do it & was right.
Well I'll close for tonight.
Jack
March 2 1944
Dear Ma
I guess I'll try to write you now while I have the time & energy.
We went out on Bivouac Mon morning & didn't get back until last night. We had to sleep in tents 6 to the tent, the also never had lights nor running water. We had one little stove in the middle which would bake you for a few minutes & then get cold as a chunk of ice. The chow house wasn't any more than a shack with tables about as high as my chin. All we did while we were out there was to fire the 45 auto & the Thomson sub mach gun. It was a lot of fun but it wasn't enough to suit me. I wanted to fire more but they wouldn't let me. All in all I didn't like it very well.
We are now through with our basic now & don't know what we will do. I guess we will just get detail from now on until we ship to a teck school. I hope it is soon but it may not be for a while we never know from one day to the next what we are doing to do.
We have been having pretty nice weather the last few days it has been like spring around here but probable be storming by morning _____ things are too good to last. I do hope the weather stays nice from now on though. I sure is mean when we get out on the drill field & it's storming.
Well I'll close now so write
Jack
We skip a few days. The first letter from his move to Las Vegas, Nevada is missing from its envelope. We catch up a few days later.
Pvt Bernard C E______ 39215612
Student Squadron 3#
Class 44-19
L.V.A.A.F.
Las Vegas Nevada
Mrs. B.C. E______
504 Grand Ave
Las Vegas New Mexico
March 22 '44
Dear Ma
As usual I'll just try to write you a letter but I don't know how it will end up.
I am glad you got the earrings & like them. I thought they were cute. I didn't know the runts would have liked them so well or I would have bought them a pair. Tell them I'll see what I can do about a pair of gunners wings for them later on -- that is if they want them & I get mine.
We got our oxygen masks the other day & had to go in the chamber. We went to the same thing as 30000 feet, we had quite a time with our ears but everyone came out ok. We have to go back & try it for 38000 feet I guess thats pretty tough on a guy but I think I can take it ok. From what they tell us about this course it will be a lot of fun but is going to be rather stiff too. Some of the cadets say itsdifferent harder than a lot of course in cadets. They also say if you can get through the first week that you can get through with the rest of it.
I have been feeling better the last 2 days but I still don't feel too good. My head has cleared up quite a bit & I don't have quite as back a headack either. I guess its because K.P. got me down.
The weather has been a little bit better in fact it is getting hot around here. We were running around with just our fatigues on this morning then worked up a sweat. We have to wear fatigues I mean O.D's all the time now. I don't exactly like the deal so much but it does make us look a lot nicer.
The sun still sets in the east & comes up in the west. Oh well thats just about how crazy the whole state is so I guess it can't be helped.
Well I'll close & try to write Tuck & Bo.
Jack.
Feb 22
Dear Ma
I'll try to write you a little note to let you know just what is happening.
We haven't been doing a whole lot of interest just listen to some old dry lecture & maybe see a movie & march. We did see a couple of pretty good movies this after noon in fact we stayed a about 10 inutes of our own time to finishe it they tried to run us out but itwas intersting so we demanded to see it.
We had a snow last night but it didn't amount to much. It was all gone by this afternoon. It did turn up cold & windy today, we are out on the flat so when the wind starts blowing it sure comes in. It also got rather dusty while we were out practice firing.
I don't remember if I told you but I want into Denver Sun & spent the whole sum of 20 cents. Thayt was spend on getting party way into town. I thumbed the rest of the way.
about my income tax you said I never included the doctor bill & etc. I tried but it didn't work this kid isn't so dumb he will try any thing to beat it but it didn't do so good this year. I tried to get more deductions but thats all I could get.
So you had quite a time in Alb. Well happy day you never did say if the runts went with you or not from what I took I guessed they did.
So Wayne wrote & told the folks that he was single--well I didn't think he would do it & was right.
Well I'll close for tonight.
Jack
March 2 1944
Dear Ma
I guess I'll try to write you now while I have the time & energy.
We went out on Bivouac Mon morning & didn't get back until last night. We had to sleep in tents 6 to the tent, the also never had lights nor running water. We had one little stove in the middle which would bake you for a few minutes & then get cold as a chunk of ice. The chow house wasn't any more than a shack with tables about as high as my chin. All we did while we were out there was to fire the 45 auto & the Thomson sub mach gun. It was a lot of fun but it wasn't enough to suit me. I wanted to fire more but they wouldn't let me. All in all I didn't like it very well.
We are now through with our basic now & don't know what we will do. I guess we will just get detail from now on until we ship to a teck school. I hope it is soon but it may not be for a while we never know from one day to the next what we are doing to do.
We have been having pretty nice weather the last few days it has been like spring around here but probable be storming by morning _____ things are too good to last. I do hope the weather stays nice from now on though. I sure is mean when we get out on the drill field & it's storming.
Well I'll close now so write
Jack
We skip a few days. The first letter from his move to Las Vegas, Nevada is missing from its envelope. We catch up a few days later.
Pvt Bernard C E______ 39215612
Student Squadron 3#
Class 44-19
L.V.A.A.F.
Las Vegas Nevada
Mrs. B.C. E______
504 Grand Ave
Las Vegas New Mexico
March 22 '44
Dear Ma
As usual I'll just try to write you a letter but I don't know how it will end up.
I am glad you got the earrings & like them. I thought they were cute. I didn't know the runts would have liked them so well or I would have bought them a pair. Tell them I'll see what I can do about a pair of gunners wings for them later on -- that is if they want them & I get mine.
We got our oxygen masks the other day & had to go in the chamber. We went to the same thing as 30000 feet, we had quite a time with our ears but everyone came out ok. We have to go back & try it for 38000 feet I guess thats pretty tough on a guy but I think I can take it ok. From what they tell us about this course it will be a lot of fun but is going to be rather stiff too. Some of the cadets say its
I have been feeling better the last 2 days but I still don't feel too good. My head has cleared up quite a bit & I don't have quite as back a headack either. I guess its because K.P. got me down.
The weather has been a little bit better in fact it is getting hot around here. We were running around with just our fatigues on this morning then worked up a sweat. We have to wear fatigues I mean O.D's all the time now. I don't exactly like the deal so much but it does make us look a lot nicer.
The sun still sets in the east & comes up in the west. Oh well thats just about how crazy the whole state is so I guess it can't be helped.
Well I'll close & try to write Tuck & Bo.
Jack.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
February 2, 1944; February 19, 1944
While I'm watching Fire Coverage, I decided I'd use the time to type some more of Jack's letters.
Feb 2 1944
Dear Bo
I got your long letter today so will try to answer it while I have time.
You seemed like you were trying to cheer me up because I didn't make cadets. It didn't bother me because I never planned on it too much. I figure 14 to 15 months is quite a while to spend learning to fly. I would just a bout a soon be a gunner at least I'd be through with the course in about 6 to 8 mo.
So you really like it there in Lingo well I am glad. No kidding do you think you can send home $75 out of a $100 home. I don't see how you do it, I have my room & board ? furnished & it cost me more than that just to go to town for a month.
Ill try to finish this while I am setting here doing nothing. We are having gas aleart & have our gas masks on it is very plesant trying to do something with them on. You can't see nor breath.
It has been rather nice out to day but it sure is muddy out. The sun came out & the sun melted therefor you have mud nice gooie mud. After the fellows come in the barracks look like a hog pen from the mud on the floor.
I have been feeling rather low latley have had a sore throat & a headack. I had one headack last week for 4 straight days & it wasn't from getting drunk either. I guess it is more or less the flue because every one has it here. We sleep in such small buildings--rather there are so many in one building if one gets something you can't help but having every thing the other guy has but his money.
I sure hope I get shipped from this joint because I dislike it more than any thing or place I have ever been or done. Everyone hates it here it wouldn't be bad if we had a little better food & a little better places to stay but it is all leads to dislike.
Well I guess I better close for now & write a few more letters.
Jack
February 19 1944
Dear Ma
So you think you should have gone to Albuquerque for a change. Well maybe it's all right that you went this time but lets not let it happen again for another 6 years. I hope you had a nice trip & saw a few of the people you use to know.
Well we have one week of Basic over with now so that means only 15 more days. We have had it a little bit easier the last couple of days. We had a exibition this after noon on chemical war fair that was very interesting. I got to talking to a Louie (just a young fellow who was connected to chemical warfair and he was very nice about it in fact the nice officer I have ever talked to. He never called me down for not saying sir & such. I did get called down on the drill field by a Louie for having a smile on my face while we were marching. I didn't like it but theres not much I could say about it.
It sure was nice out today & we had to stay in all but 2 hours listening to dull old lectures. There telling us all about firing guns but up to yet they haven't told me much that my dear old uncle hand't told me or beat into my head. Say while I am talking about Wayne you can inform the Folk that I said Wayne wont get married to Malc so for them to stop worring. I think I know him about as well as any one does & I don't think he would do something like that in fact I just wrote him pertainning to such & you should have read what he wrote so tell them not to worry.
I got a pass tonight but am staying in for a change. I can't afford to go in more than once or twice a month.
Well I have to shine some shoes & etc so will close for now.
Jack.
Feb 2 1944
Dear Bo
I got your long letter today so will try to answer it while I have time.
You seemed like you were trying to cheer me up because I didn't make cadets. It didn't bother me because I never planned on it too much. I figure 14 to 15 months is quite a while to spend learning to fly. I would just a bout a soon be a gunner at least I'd be through with the course in about 6 to 8 mo.
So you really like it there in Lingo well I am glad. No kidding do you think you can send home $75 out of a $100 home. I don't see how you do it, I have my room & board ? furnished & it cost me more than that just to go to town for a month.
Ill try to finish this while I am setting here doing nothing. We are having gas aleart & have our gas masks on it is very plesant trying to do something with them on. You can't see nor breath.
It has been rather nice out to day but it sure is muddy out. The sun came out & the sun melted therefor you have mud nice gooie mud. After the fellows come in the barracks look like a hog pen from the mud on the floor.
I have been feeling rather low latley have had a sore throat & a headack. I had one headack last week for 4 straight days & it wasn't from getting drunk either. I guess it is more or less the flue because every one has it here. We sleep in such small buildings--rather there are so many in one building if one gets something you can't help but having every thing the other guy has but his money.
I sure hope I get shipped from this joint because I dislike it more than any thing or place I have ever been or done. Everyone hates it here it wouldn't be bad if we had a little better food & a little better places to stay but it is all leads to dislike.
Well I guess I better close for now & write a few more letters.
Jack
February 19 1944
Dear Ma
So you think you should have gone to Albuquerque for a change. Well maybe it's all right that you went this time but lets not let it happen again for another 6 years. I hope you had a nice trip & saw a few of the people you use to know.
Well we have one week of Basic over with now so that means only 15 more days. We have had it a little bit easier the last couple of days. We had a exibition this after noon on chemical war fair that was very interesting. I got to talking to a Louie (just a young fellow who was connected to chemical warfair and he was very nice about it in fact the nice officer I have ever talked to. He never called me down for not saying sir & such. I did get called down on the drill field by a Louie for having a smile on my face while we were marching. I didn't like it but theres not much I could say about it.
It sure was nice out today & we had to stay in all but 2 hours listening to dull old lectures. There telling us all about firing guns but up to yet they haven't told me much that my dear old uncle hand't told me or beat into my head. Say while I am talking about Wayne you can inform the Folk that I said Wayne wont get married to Malc so for them to stop worring. I think I know him about as well as any one does & I don't think he would do something like that in fact I just wrote him pertainning to such & you should have read what he wrote so tell them not to worry.
I got a pass tonight but am staying in for a change. I can't afford to go in more than once or twice a month.
Well I have to shine some shoes & etc so will close for now.
Jack.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
February 1, 1944; February 3, 1944
I wanted to honor Jack's memory by posting some more letters today on Veteran's Day. I am barely making it; it has been a busy day and evening!
He is still in Denver at basic training, and Jack obviously has less time to write letters....he is dispensing with puncuation, but I am trying to type them as he wrote them!
I hope everyone has had time to read them and is enjoying them. I think the letters give an intersting little snapshot!
Jan 31 1944
Dear Ma
Ill try to write you a little note but I don't know why I should I haven't received any mail from you for several days & I can't figure out why unless its because i have been moving. We moved again today into another Barrack the number now is 410 but I don't know how long we will be here. I don't imagine I'll be here over a couple of days but then again I may be here the duration & 6 mos.
We went into Denver Sun & went to church it was a pretty good sermon. It sure was a nice church to, it's the me church right in town.
It has been cold here since we had the snow but all we have been doing is walking guard duty & getting cold. I guess it has warmed up some out side but it is still rather chilly even at that.
Say have Margaret & Jim ever sent you any money I was wondering you never did write and say any thing about them.
How is florence getting along now she probable likes it better now but probable still would rather be home but wouldn't we all.
I guess we get paid this afternon not that I need it but it sure is a nice feeling.
Well I guess thats about all so Ill have to close for now
Jack
Feb 2 1944
Dear Ma well I'll try to pen you a short note to let you know I am still kicking & I do mean kicking.
I got the pictures but didn't think they were much good I don't know what was wrong but some thing is I guess it must be me I know know what else it could be. I also got your picture--thanks--all the fellows think I look like my Ma I wonder why. In fact one guy told me I should be a girl that I would make a better looking girl than I do a boy. They also thought I had a very nice looking ma in fact good looking enough to get remarried--so there too.
I got a nice long letter from Bo to day & I guess she must like it o.k. She didn't gripe too much so it must not be too bad or may be she hasn't gotten use to it yet or something.
I had KP the other night--I was just getting ready to write you & they came in & let me voluntere for the job. I helped peel 2400 lbs of spuds. I even look like a spud now. I don't think I ever came so close to cutting a guy neck as I did that night.
I also burnt my right index finger the other day. a lid from the heater fell on it & burnt a place about a inch long & about 3/16 wide. It didn't hurt then but it sure has been lateley I knocked the hide off of it & its been razin hell with me.
We got paid yesterday & you know of that $50 they always talk about the solders getting well my share is cut down to the whole sum of $16 --I use to make that much in a day. I'll just have to ration myself to less nights a week out. after I get a few stripes, that is if I make gunner, Ill be making a little more.
Well I guess thats just about all for now
Oh yes I got Nenes letter & sure takes the cake.
Jack
(To remind you, the $16 he got in his paycheck is about $199 today.)
He is still in Denver at basic training, and Jack obviously has less time to write letters....he is dispensing with puncuation, but I am trying to type them as he wrote them!
I hope everyone has had time to read them and is enjoying them. I think the letters give an intersting little snapshot!
Jan 31 1944
Dear Ma
Ill try to write you a little note but I don't know why I should I haven't received any mail from you for several days & I can't figure out why unless its because i have been moving. We moved again today into another Barrack the number now is 410 but I don't know how long we will be here. I don't imagine I'll be here over a couple of days but then again I may be here the duration & 6 mos.
We went into Denver Sun & went to church it was a pretty good sermon. It sure was a nice church to, it's the me church right in town.
It has been cold here since we had the snow but all we have been doing is walking guard duty & getting cold. I guess it has warmed up some out side but it is still rather chilly even at that.
Say have Margaret & Jim ever sent you any money I was wondering you never did write and say any thing about them.
How is florence getting along now she probable likes it better now but probable still would rather be home but wouldn't we all.
I guess we get paid this afternon not that I need it but it sure is a nice feeling.
Well I guess thats about all so Ill have to close for now
Jack
Feb 2 1944
Dear Ma well I'll try to pen you a short note to let you know I am still kicking & I do mean kicking.
I got the pictures but didn't think they were much good I don't know what was wrong but some thing is I guess it must be me I know know what else it could be. I also got your picture--thanks--all the fellows think I look like my Ma I wonder why. In fact one guy told me I should be a girl that I would make a better looking girl than I do a boy. They also thought I had a very nice looking ma in fact good looking enough to get remarried--so there too.
I got a nice long letter from Bo to day & I guess she must like it o.k. She didn't gripe too much so it must not be too bad or may be she hasn't gotten use to it yet or something.
I had KP the other night--I was just getting ready to write you & they came in & let me voluntere for the job. I helped peel 2400 lbs of spuds. I even look like a spud now. I don't think I ever came so close to cutting a guy neck as I did that night.
I also burnt my right index finger the other day. a lid from the heater fell on it & burnt a place about a inch long & about 3/16 wide. It didn't hurt then but it sure has been lateley I knocked the hide off of it & its been razin hell with me.
We got paid yesterday & you know of that $50 they always talk about the solders getting well my share is cut down to the whole sum of $16 --I use to make that much in a day. I'll just have to ration myself to less nights a week out. after I get a few stripes, that is if I make gunner, Ill be making a little more.
Well I guess thats just about all for now
Oh yes I got Nenes letter & sure takes the cake.
Jack
(To remind you, the $16 he got in his paycheck is about $199 today.)
Friday, November 7, 2008
January 11, 1944; January 19, 1944; January 27, 1944
Here is the next batch of letters. Check out the illustrations on the stationery.
Pvt Bernard C E______39215612
TSS 769 Flt 176
BKS 339
Buckley Field
Denver Colo
Mrs. B.C. E______
504 Grand Ave
Las Vegas New Mexico
Jan. 9, 1944
Dear Ma,
Ill try to write you a letter but I don't know how far I'll get with it.
We finished some of our test yesterday but have a physical tomorrow. We really taking a beating on this stuff & I do mean a beating. I really don't think I made it but from what they tell us we will know in about a week today- I hope, in some ways that I made it but in other ways it will be the hardest 14 months I'll ever spend or have ever spent.
We went into town last night but didn't do much of anything.
Jan 10
We took a physical, rather a part of one today. It was a blood test, x ray & etc, on the blood test it felt like they took a gal of blood out of my arm & I know I only had 3 qt of blood to start with. It felt like they were taking my arem off. Ask Jim what a 64 physical is.
I got a letter from Margaret K today but she didn't write much. She wrote a little about Pete but that's all she wrote.
I guess I'll have to send my camera home because I was with Louie & he saw some guys taking picture well he up and took the camera away from them.
Well I'll close now
Jack
Jan 18, 44
--me (pointing to gunner in illustration)
Dear Ma
I guess I might as well write and let you know just what the score is. I didn't make cadets but I guess I must have hit it pretty close because they told me if they lower the standard I'll get a chance at it. I haven't completed it but from what I hear I'll probable go in as a gunner but I don't feel too bad about it because Ill be able to make about as much money at being a gunner as 2nd Louie. I also feel a little better because only 12 made it out of better than 50 in our bunch and some rather most of them had some college.
We sure had a nice day today it got chilly & the wind blew like the devil. We are out in the stick where the dust and sand comes a flying at you and feel like bolders. We also went through the gas chamber today filled with tear gas. We sure had a bunch of bawl babys come out of there too.
I hope Florence likes her job better by now tell her it can't be any worse than the army even at that. Tell her not to forget we also have to run outside to go to the head.
Well I guess that all for tonight.
Jack
Jan 26 1944
Dear Ma
I'll try to scribble you a few lines to let you know just how things stand now. I was officially notified that I was a armor gunner & that I have 45 more days of basic left. I also found out approxamatle how my I.Q. stands in the army. There are 5 groups starting with 1 & going to 5, I had to be at least in the 3rd group to get in the air corp. Mine is in the middle of the 2nd group so I guess thats not too bad now is it for a E_____.
It started snowing some time last night & is still snowing tonight. It is a rather wet snow too. I don't know just how deep it is but I guess it's around 6 in. so you see we are having a pretty nice snow. It will sure be nice to get out & march in I noticed some fellows marching today & when they did an about face they sort of lit on there ---.
Say what about that roll of film I sent you I sure would like to have those things get here so please try to get them back.
Also please send me my Income Tax stuff so I can file a return on it the time is getting rather short.
Well I'll close for now. Oh yes I got nenes letter & tell her thanks
Jack
Pvt Bernard C E______39215612
TSS 769 Flt 176
BKS 339
Buckley Field
Denver Colo
Mrs. B.C. E______
504 Grand Ave
Las Vegas New Mexico
Jan. 9, 1944
Dear Ma,
Ill try to write you a letter but I don't know how far I'll get with it.
We finished some of our test yesterday but have a physical tomorrow. We really taking a beating on this stuff & I do mean a beating. I really don't think I made it but from what they tell us we will know in about a week today- I hope, in some ways that I made it but in other ways it will be the hardest 14 months I'll ever spend or have ever spent.
We went into town last night but didn't do much of anything.
Jan 10
We took a physical, rather a part of one today. It was a blood test, x ray & etc, on the blood test it felt like they took a gal of blood out of my arm & I know I only had 3 qt of blood to start with. It felt like they were taking my arem off. Ask Jim what a 64 physical is.
I got a letter from Margaret K today but she didn't write much. She wrote a little about Pete but that's all she wrote.
I guess I'll have to send my camera home because I was with Louie & he saw some guys taking picture well he up and took the camera away from them.
Well I'll close now
Jack
Jan 18, 44
--me (pointing to gunner in illustration)
Dear Ma
I guess I might as well write and let you know just what the score is. I didn't make cadets but I guess I must have hit it pretty close because they told me if they lower the standard I'll get a chance at it. I haven't completed it but from what I hear I'll probable go in as a gunner but I don't feel too bad about it because Ill be able to make about as much money at being a gunner as 2nd Louie. I also feel a little better because only 12 made it out of better than 50 in our bunch and some rather most of them had some college.
We sure had a nice day today it got chilly & the wind blew like the devil. We are out in the stick where the dust and sand comes a flying at you and feel like bolders. We also went through the gas chamber today filled with tear gas. We sure had a bunch of bawl babys come out of there too.
I hope Florence likes her job better by now tell her it can't be any worse than the army even at that. Tell her not to forget we also have to run outside to go to the head.
Well I guess that all for tonight.
Jack
Jan 26 1944
Dear Ma
I'll try to scribble you a few lines to let you know just how things stand now. I was officially notified that I was a armor gunner & that I have 45 more days of basic left. I also found out approxamatle how my I.Q. stands in the army. There are 5 groups starting with 1 & going to 5, I had to be at least in the 3rd group to get in the air corp. Mine is in the middle of the 2nd group so I guess thats not too bad now is it for a E_____.
It started snowing some time last night & is still snowing tonight. It is a rather wet snow too. I don't know just how deep it is but I guess it's around 6 in. so you see we are having a pretty nice snow. It will sure be nice to get out & march in I noticed some fellows marching today & when they did an about face they sort of lit on there ---.
Say what about that roll of film I sent you I sure would like to have those things get here so please try to get them back.
Also please send me my Income Tax stuff so I can file a return on it the time is getting rather short.
Well I'll close for now. Oh yes I got nenes letter & tell her thanks
Jack
Friday, October 24, 2008
December 5, 1943; December 7, 1943; December 11, 1943
We're in the Army now!
Dec 5 -43
Dear Ma
Well here I am and doing really good so far.
We were issued our clothes yesterday & also took or I.Q. tests. They gave us so many clothes I don't know what we are going to do with them all. As for the test I don't know what I made and don't really care much.
We will probable start taking our shots tomorrow so probable won't be feeling so good.
The time has been going by rather fast as we haven't had a whole lot of time to our self but I guess thats ok too.
The food has been pretty good and they treat us ok so the most of us havent got much if any kick comming. It's not near as bad as I thought it would be but the hard part is yet to come.
I sure hope they ship me out of this place by Wed. I take it we will be here till at least Tues so am hoping.
There was a pretty good bunch of fellows we came over with so I dont have any kick there.
I got slightly interrupted so I will start again. We ate dinner which wasn't half bad but I guess it could have been a whole lot better. On the whole though the food hasn't been bad in fact a whole lot better than I expected.
The sun is out again today I sure hope it stays out so it will have a chance to warm up a little.
I made out an allotment yesterday for you & Anita & they said you would get it with in 5 days (I hope)
Well I guess thats about all for the time being. At least you know I am alive
Please don't write until I am settled
Jack
(skipped scanning second page with only a few lines)
Dec 7 1943
Dear Ma
Well I'll try to write you a little not saying I am still kicking - (and how)
We got 2 "shots" this morning one in each arm so some of the fellows arms are rather sore. As for me mine feels pretty good I hope it doesn't get sore.
Our outfit got K.P. for tomorrow so I guess I'll have a rather busy day in fact it will be a 14 hour day and not time & a 1/2 for over time.
I also will have to take a test tomorrow I voluntered to cadet training and if I can pass I'll be setting pretty. If I don't I don't know just what will happen. I sure hope I make it though. I think if I do make it I'll be sent to Denver.
We haven't been doing much except waiting on someone to rush us some place to wait some more.
Say I am enclosing a couple of papers so fill the top one out & etc. Then when I get located send it to me on your first letter-on the same day you recive the one from me.
Well may be this will hold you for the present because I have to leave in a couple of minutes. Jack
Pvt Bernard C E_____ 39215612
CoC.
S.C.U. 1909 (Reception Center)
Fort Lewis Wash.
Mrs. B.C. E_____
504 Grand Ave
Las Vegas New Mexico
Dec 10 '43
Dear Ma
Well I am now in the air corp as a cadet, I made all my tests ok, and went befor the board this morning. 3 officers started firing questions all at once and they sure make a guy exited. But I am in so I'll just have to keep trying from now on out.
Please go up to Otto Zorns tonight and make him write me a letter of recommendation & please dont leave until he gives it to you.
Have been getting along ok and haven't gotten into any trouble so I guess thats ok too.
Belive it or not but the sun has been out for 3 days since we
Please send birthcertificat.
Well I am so excited I can't write anymore I'll send address as soon as am shipped.
Jack
Dec 5 -43
Dear Ma
Well here I am and doing really good so far.
We were issued our clothes yesterday & also took or I.Q. tests. They gave us so many clothes I don't know what we are going to do with them all. As for the test I don't know what I made and don't really care much.
We will probable start taking our shots tomorrow so probable won't be feeling so good.
The time has been going by rather fast as we haven't had a whole lot of time to our self but I guess thats ok too.
The food has been pretty good and they treat us ok so the most of us havent got much if any kick comming. It's not near as bad as I thought it would be but the hard part is yet to come.
I sure hope they ship me out of this place by Wed. I take it we will be here till at least Tues so am hoping.
There was a pretty good bunch of fellows we came over with so I dont have any kick there.
I got slightly interrupted so I will start again. We ate dinner which wasn't half bad but I guess it could have been a whole lot better. On the whole though the food hasn't been bad in fact a whole lot better than I expected.
The sun is out again today I sure hope it stays out so it will have a chance to warm up a little.
I made out an allotment yesterday for you & Anita & they said you would get it with in 5 days (I hope)
Well I guess thats about all for the time being. At least you know I am alive
Please don't write until I am settled
Jack
(skipped scanning second page with only a few lines)
Dec 7 1943
Dear Ma
Well I'll try to write you a little not saying I am still kicking - (and how)
We got 2 "shots" this morning one in each arm so some of the fellows arms are rather sore. As for me mine feels pretty good I hope it doesn't get sore.
Our outfit got K.P. for tomorrow so I guess I'll have a rather busy day in fact it will be a 14 hour day and not time & a 1/2 for over time.
I also will have to take a test tomorrow I voluntered to cadet training and if I can pass I'll be setting pretty. If I don't I don't know just what will happen. I sure hope I make it though. I think if I do make it I'll be sent to Denver.
We haven't been doing much except waiting on someone to rush us some place to wait some more.
Say I am enclosing a couple of papers so fill the top one out & etc. Then when I get located send it to me on your first letter-on the same day you recive the one from me.
Well may be this will hold you for the present because I have to leave in a couple of minutes. Jack
Pvt Bernard C E_____ 39215612
CoC.
S.C.U. 1909 (Reception Center)
Fort Lewis Wash.
Mrs. B.C. E_____
504 Grand Ave
Las Vegas New Mexico
Dec 10 '43
Dear Ma
Well I am now in the air corp as a cadet, I made all my tests ok, and went befor the board this morning. 3 officers started firing questions all at once and they sure make a guy exited. But I am in so I'll just have to keep trying from now on out.
Please go up to Otto Zorns tonight and make him write me a letter of recommendation & please dont leave until he gives it to you.
Have been getting along ok and haven't gotten into any trouble so I guess thats ok too.
Belive it or not but the sun has been out for 3 days since we
Please send birthcertificat.
Well I am so excited I can't write anymore I'll send address as soon as am shipped.
Jack
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
November 13, 1943 & December 1, 1943
More from Bremerton, Washington.
Nov 9 '43
Dear Ma
Ill try to get another letter started and see if I can finish it befor the usual Sat letter.
It is still chilly here & me I have been working out side so I have noticed it. It didn't seem so cold last night until I got off then I noticed it. I have been working on the blisters and most of it is out side work in fact it is all considered outside.
Say while I am thinking about it do I have a shoe ration stamp in one of the new books. I have been thinking about buying smaller pair of work shoes, the soles are out on mine all ready & when it rains I get my feet wet. It also take 2 or 3 weeks to get a pair of shoes fixed here & thats quite a while to wear low shoes.
I got another war bond last night so it means that much more cash in hand. It sure takes them a long time to get them out to us, it doesn't take them that long to get us to sign up for them though. Oh well I guess every one is out after the other fellows money so whats the difference.
Say when is that dear Miss Florence E_____ suppose to finish school. She better start thinking about getting a job as soon as she gets out & I don't mean a 30¢ a hour job either.
I have been thinking about going fishing but am like Dad Kruse just haven't gotten around to it yet. I guess the fresh water season is closed but salt water fishing is always open, you also don't need a license to fish in salt water.
I noticed the yard is tearing down all the bomb shelters & etc. I guess they aren't afraid since they took the islands. Oh well it wouldn't make much difference to a whole lot of the guys if they did blow this place off the map as long as they got out.
Nov 13 -43 (same letter)
Dear Ma it seems that I am so lazy I stink. I shouldn't I just took a shower a couple days ago.
OK here goes and I don't want you to start worrying about it. Your son is Pvt Bernard C. E______ 37215612 in the U.S. Army. Uncle Sam sent me another one of those little papers about 3 weeks ago asking me if I wished to join the armed forces. I felt like saying no but you know how it is when someone beckons you, just like getting married or something. I went over to Seattle & was sworn in I also passed my physical with flying colors. They took me off the Limited service & put me in general service so I was very happy. I will leave here Dec 3rd so judge your mail & also I'll need to send in my ration books so send them too me so they will get here by that time. The physical they gave us here was a snap compared to the one they gave us in N. Mex. I believe if I had taken my first one here I would have passed.
I would have written you sooner but I knew you would just start worrying about it, & there's no sense worrying because I can still take care of my self.
Well we hopped clear across the U.S. last night from West Va to Calif. That's a pretty big jump now isn't it. I sure didn't do any thing either, I welded for about 15 min.
I am planning on working up to a day or 2 of the time to leave. I will have my checks made out to be sent to you just hold them till I get located and then send them to me. I had you made out as Beneficiary & florence is alternate.
Well Ill close now and try to get this thing mailed this time.
Jack
P.S. Get the biggest service flag you can get & charge it to me.
Enclosed $25
Dec 1 1943
Dear Ma
Well Ill try to write you a letter I don't know how I'll end up because I have been going around & around. I quite the yard this morning-that is after a fashion, I guess I am through because they took my convict picture away from me & I can't get back in. I had all my stuff sent to your address such as checks & bonds.
I tried to pack my stuff this morning & I ain't just saying it but I really have a headack. I more or less forgot just when I was supposed to leave & it slipped up on me all of a sudden.
I just can't seem to write my head is swimming thinking about what I haven't done yet. I think I have done almost every thing up to date but I suppose the last minet I'll remember some thing.
(writing with different pen) Well this is my last night - I ship out in the morning about 8:00. This is going to be short but sweet.
I recived your letter today & also one from Marg so I was happy - tell her I'll write after I get located.
I got tight Sat night also today but feel fine now so I guess its ok. - Say send me your birth dates - you and the kids & etc.
Ill let you know where I land the first time I land.
Has been very nice the last few days - raining all the time & I mean rain. Just like N.M. Well I'll have to close now as it is 12AM & I have to get up at 7
Enclosed is a $50 bond.
Every thing will be sent to you.
Jack
Monday, October 13, 2008
September 15, 1943; September 22, 1943; October 22, 1943
Here are a few excerpts from some letters from the autumn of 1943. I'm skipping the scanning this time, and am hitting just the highlights.
Sept 15 '43
Dear Ma,
...
Every one here is worried about the draft. It looks as though it is going to get a few of the draft dodgers. They say they personnel office is packed with them also the draft board.
The have also been talking about putting us on a 9 hour day & having only 2 shifts and every other Sunday off. It would avg us 2 hours a week more than we have it now. I don't know how it would work out but I think we have the best set up we could want, we only put 8 hours on the job and only supposed to work 7 it would really add 2 hours a day to us. We get paid for our lunch time the way it is the other way we wouldn't. Oh well they wouldn't do it the way I want then so what do I care.
...
Every one is talking about going deer hunting. the season opens Sun. I would like to go but what would I do with one if I got one & I don't have a gun so I guess there's not much sense in wishing.
Well I don't have any more to write so I'll close and hope you get this before or on Sat.
Jack
*****************************************
Sept 22, '43
Dear Ma
I received your nice long letter yesterday so I will try to answer it.
You may some day learn to listen to your little son. I am glad you went up and got your glasses. I told Florence that if you didn't go up and get them that she should break your old ones so you would have to. I guess you beat her to it.
...
They tell me they are planning on taking 700 workers out of the yard between now & the first of the year. I don't know but I think I am probable include in that group. They say the are calling in all deferments on guys from 18-25 so it wouldn't do me much good to have a deferment. I doesn't seem to make any difference what rating you hold or how much of a family you have if you come between the age limits.
I got those pictures ok but I discovered one happens to be missing. I am sure the fellows here would enjoy looking at it and would compliment me on such good picture taking. How bout that picture of Bo.
...
Sat
I imagine you have been wondering why I haven't been writing. Just lazyness.
Now listen & get this straight. I want you (right now so I can get it by Sun) to go up to the Folks and go up to Wayne room and ge me a little 30-30. It is sitting near the left hand side of the rack. The barell is a darker color than the rest of the guns looks like stove blackening on it and it chips off. Then get dad Kruse to go out in the shop and see if he can find 2 boxes of 30-30 shells, first try the big box under the lathe. I imagine they are in there it will say 30-30 on the box. about the gun it has a price tag on it that says $12 or $15 I forget just what but its between $10-$15 make sure the shells fit the gun. Now as 2nd and last resort if for some reason you can't do the other. Take my gun out of the box and ask Dad Kruse for about 20 shells for his gun tell him I want some hunting loads. He has some for his Krug also make sure they fit. Don't send either gun in a wooden box put it in card board.
Maybe Glady could call Mr. Woodall he will help if he is in town. I want to go deer hunting next Sunday if possible so please dear Ma don't put this off till this after noon or tomorrow. I would have sent you a night letter but was afraid you wouldn't get it till Mon & I hope this is there by then. I hope you can get the 30-30 together it is a lighter gun & etc. Please try & send it. The 30-30 will be out in the shop so try hard to find them.
I am sending you $30 to cover the cost of handling and packing. I'll pay the express.
Well I'll close for now & hope like LLL that the gun get here on or before Sat. Ask about air express if it is not over $3.50 send it by that.
Jack
Put in Hunting Knife
************************************
And the payoff.....
October 22 43
Dear Ma
May be I ought to drop you a line to let you know I'm still alive. I have been deer hunting just about every day & we I get home (if I do get home) I am so tired I can hardly walk. Yesterday I slept about 13 hours, but the day befor I had 3 hours sleep & the day befor that I had 5 hours sleep - so you see I really had earned a little sleep. Sat morning I went out to one of the welders house & stayed all day Sat & Sun. I sure had a lot of fun, Sat night we went out & they got drunk. I was afraid of getting sick so I didn't. We stayed up til 2 AM Sun & then got up at 8 I then went to sleep around 7 and slept till around 10. It really think I start finding out what a bed is for I haven't been in one enough lately to really know. Sun I went out in the bay and picked up some oysters. We fried and ate them. They were small but good. They do have some big ones on ??? fried they are about the size of the palm of your hand. I am going out again some day when it is sunny & take some pictures out there - it sure is pretty.
We haven't had much luck as far as deer hunting the only thing I got was a heck of a cold.
...
We did catch a big salmon in the creek day before yesterday - the salmon are just starting to run & it is easy to reach down and grab one. The one we got was a dog salmon they are ugly but pretty good eating. I guess thats the kind they smoke. If I had my camera along I would have taken a picture of it.
It has been raining almost every day since I got my gun & it sure makes it miserable to hunt even after it rains because the ferns and underbrush hit me just about the waist.
Well as I don't plan on going out tomorrow & am sleepy I'll close now.
Sat
Well I guess I am going hunting again today, I'll have to get that buck today or tomorrow or never Sun is the last day.
Well we moved over on the West Va last night and really put out for a change.
...
Enclosed $25
Jack
Sept 15 '43
Dear Ma,
...
Every one here is worried about the draft. It looks as though it is going to get a few of the draft dodgers. They say they personnel office is packed with them also the draft board.
The have also been talking about putting us on a 9 hour day & having only 2 shifts and every other Sunday off. It would avg us 2 hours a week more than we have it now. I don't know how it would work out but I think we have the best set up we could want, we only put 8 hours on the job and only supposed to work 7 it would really add 2 hours a day to us. We get paid for our lunch time the way it is the other way we wouldn't. Oh well they wouldn't do it the way I want then so what do I care.
...
Every one is talking about going deer hunting. the season opens Sun. I would like to go but what would I do with one if I got one & I don't have a gun so I guess there's not much sense in wishing.
Well I don't have any more to write so I'll close and hope you get this before or on Sat.
Jack
*****************************************
Sept 22, '43
Dear Ma
I received your nice long letter yesterday so I will try to answer it.
You may some day learn to listen to your little son. I am glad you went up and got your glasses. I told Florence that if you didn't go up and get them that she should break your old ones so you would have to. I guess you beat her to it.
...
They tell me they are planning on taking 700 workers out of the yard between now & the first of the year. I don't know but I think I am probable include in that group. They say the are calling in all deferments on guys from 18-25 so it wouldn't do me much good to have a deferment. I doesn't seem to make any difference what rating you hold or how much of a family you have if you come between the age limits.
I got those pictures ok but I discovered one happens to be missing. I am sure the fellows here would enjoy looking at it and would compliment me on such good picture taking. How bout that picture of Bo.
...
Sat
I imagine you have been wondering why I haven't been writing. Just lazyness.
Now listen & get this straight. I want you (right now so I can get it by Sun) to go up to the Folks and go up to Wayne room and ge me a little 30-30. It is sitting near the left hand side of the rack. The barell is a darker color than the rest of the guns looks like stove blackening on it and it chips off. Then get dad Kruse to go out in the shop and see if he can find 2 boxes of 30-30 shells, first try the big box under the lathe. I imagine they are in there it will say 30-30 on the box. about the gun it has a price tag on it that says $12 or $15 I forget just what but its between $10-$15 make sure the shells fit the gun. Now as 2nd and last resort if for some reason you can't do the other. Take my gun out of the box and ask Dad Kruse for about 20 shells for his gun tell him I want some hunting loads. He has some for his Krug also make sure they fit. Don't send either gun in a wooden box put it in card board.
Maybe Glady could call Mr. Woodall he will help if he is in town. I want to go deer hunting next Sunday if possible so please dear Ma don't put this off till this after noon or tomorrow. I would have sent you a night letter but was afraid you wouldn't get it till Mon & I hope this is there by then. I hope you can get the 30-30 together it is a lighter gun & etc. Please try & send it. The 30-30 will be out in the shop so try hard to find them.
I am sending you $30 to cover the cost of handling and packing. I'll pay the express.
Well I'll close for now & hope like LLL that the gun get here on or before Sat. Ask about air express if it is not over $3.50 send it by that.
Jack
Put in Hunting Knife
************************************
And the payoff.....
October 22 43
Dear Ma
May be I ought to drop you a line to let you know I'm still alive. I have been deer hunting just about every day & we I get home (if I do get home) I am so tired I can hardly walk. Yesterday I slept about 13 hours, but the day befor I had 3 hours sleep & the day befor that I had 5 hours sleep - so you see I really had earned a little sleep. Sat morning I went out to one of the welders house & stayed all day Sat & Sun. I sure had a lot of fun, Sat night we went out & they got drunk. I was afraid of getting sick so I didn't. We stayed up til 2 AM Sun & then got up at 8 I then went to sleep around 7 and slept till around 10. It really think I start finding out what a bed is for I haven't been in one enough lately to really know. Sun I went out in the bay and picked up some oysters. We fried and ate them. They were small but good. They do have some big ones on ??? fried they are about the size of the palm of your hand. I am going out again some day when it is sunny & take some pictures out there - it sure is pretty.
We haven't had much luck as far as deer hunting the only thing I got was a heck of a cold.
...
We did catch a big salmon in the creek day before yesterday - the salmon are just starting to run & it is easy to reach down and grab one. The one we got was a dog salmon they are ugly but pretty good eating. I guess thats the kind they smoke. If I had my camera along I would have taken a picture of it.
It has been raining almost every day since I got my gun & it sure makes it miserable to hunt even after it rains because the ferns and underbrush hit me just about the waist.
Well as I don't plan on going out tomorrow & am sleepy I'll close now.
Sat
Well I guess I am going hunting again today, I'll have to get that buck today or tomorrow or never Sun is the last day.
Well we moved over on the West Va last night and really put out for a change.
...
Enclosed $25
Jack
Inflation Calculator
Here is a nifty tool in case you are wondering about the amounts that Jack mentions in his letters.
The $70 a week he mentions making working graveyards (thanks, Poss, for GY = Graveyard) works out to about $941 today.
The $10 he sent to Aunt Bo as a birthday present would be about $134 today.
One thing that I think we can agree on about Jack. In the midst of his many traits, good and bad, he was always generous with his money.
The $70 a week he mentions making working graveyards (thanks, Poss, for GY = Graveyard) works out to about $941 today.
The $10 he sent to Aunt Bo as a birthday present would be about $134 today.
One thing that I think we can agree on about Jack. In the midst of his many traits, good and bad, he was always generous with his money.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
February 9, 1943
Another peek at the life in the shipyards.
Feb 9 1943
Dear Ma
Well, I don't know if I beat the shoe ration or not haven't found out yet but will probable tomorrow. No one can say I didn't warn them. Although I didn't think it would come so soon. I thought it would come more in the summer than it did. I didn't really need them but thought I better try and get them before they did ration them.
Well we got moved over on the U.S.S Tenn last night. When we move on a boat it is just like moving to a different town. If you don't watch your step you will get lost every time. The big ones are like big towns the little ones like little towns. I never got lost last night but I went past several hatches and then would have to turn around and go back.
It sure is different welding on a battleship and on a destroyer. the bulkheads (walls) on a battle wagon are almost as thick as the hull on a destroyer. The heaviest metal on a destroyer is 3/8 or 1/2 on a battle ship it is some times 14"
The weather is still chilly, it has been frosting every night. To me it doesn't seem as cold as it did, I guess I am just getting use to it.
Say about Floyd B. why don't you write him and tell him you don't need his cash and for him to put it in to Bonds. I think you can get along on what I cam sending you and if you can't you better slow up a little. Don't be like every one else and want all you can get no matter how it hurts the next person.
I haven't heard from Uncle Wayne since Xmas but he will probable be writing me one of these days. I did get a letter from Grandma Goodwin yesterday. Ill have to write her as soon as I finish this. Old Floyd owe me a letter to so I think I'll write him and tell him I thought it was his legs that were hurt not his right arm.
Well that Mal better watch her step or she will end up with a knife in her back if she's not careful. Any one who talks as much as she does ought to have something done about it.
Well I think I'll close
Jack
I am sending as just plain mail so you can see how fast it is.
You forgot to state definitely how much money you received.
Feb 9 1943
Dear Ma
Well, I don't know if I beat the shoe ration or not haven't found out yet but will probable tomorrow. No one can say I didn't warn them. Although I didn't think it would come so soon. I thought it would come more in the summer than it did. I didn't really need them but thought I better try and get them before they did ration them.
Well we got moved over on the U.S.S Tenn last night. When we move on a boat it is just like moving to a different town. If you don't watch your step you will get lost every time. The big ones are like big towns the little ones like little towns. I never got lost last night but I went past several hatches and then would have to turn around and go back.
It sure is different welding on a battleship and on a destroyer. the bulkheads (walls) on a battle wagon are almost as thick as the hull on a destroyer. The heaviest metal on a destroyer is 3/8 or 1/2 on a battle ship it is some times 14"
The weather is still chilly, it has been frosting every night. To me it doesn't seem as cold as it did, I guess I am just getting use to it.
Say about Floyd B. why don't you write him and tell him you don't need his cash and for him to put it in to Bonds. I think you can get along on what I cam sending you and if you can't you better slow up a little. Don't be like every one else and want all you can get no matter how it hurts the next person.
I haven't heard from Uncle Wayne since Xmas but he will probable be writing me one of these days. I did get a letter from Grandma Goodwin yesterday. Ill have to write her as soon as I finish this. Old Floyd owe me a letter to so I think I'll write him and tell him I thought it was his legs that were hurt not his right arm.
Well that Mal better watch her step or she will end up with a knife in her back if she's not careful. Any one who talks as much as she does ought to have something done about it.
Well I think I'll close
Jack
I am sending as just plain mail so you can see how fast it is.
You forgot to state definitely how much money you received.
Friday, October 10, 2008
May 16, 1942; May 23, 1942; May 31, 1942
After we found the box of letters, I sat at BobBIE's and sorted them into chronological order by postmark. That is how I will post them, but by the time he was sending letters from overseas, the postmark (in the States) will probably not always be chronological with the date the letter was written back in England. So, we'll just have to pretend we are Gram or Bo and read them as they probably received them.
As you know, during the early years of the war, before Jack joined the United States Army Air Corps, he worked in the shipyards of Bremerton, Washington. In 1942, they were repairing many of the ships damaged at Pearl Harbor.
The first bunch of letters are from Washington. Because Jack's handwriting is not always the most legible, I'll type them out. I'll keep his spelling errors.
And so he wrote:
Miss Florence E______
Hulitt Hall
York Nebr.
May 16 1942
Dear Bo
Well I am writing you to find out what you want for your birthday. The skys the limit and you can have what you want. I made 12.92 + 6¢ a hour for G.Y. last night so you can see I'll have a little money. I'll get around $70 for this weeks work and will get paid on Friday so answer me right away. You can have some money or Ill send you some thing from here. I haven't been working very hard but have been putting in long hours. I am learning how to weld all over again, what they taught me in Vegas was all wrong, but I'll be making $7.43 a day while learning.
Just ate Breakfast & am getting ready to go to bed (12:00 noon) I got a letter from Ma but she didn't say much as usual. Well I hope you are really knoking them over a college. Us E______s have it in us but know one nows it, ain't that right kid. Now listen Florence Emma if there is any thing you want just let your little brother in on it and we'll see what we can do about it.
Well I'll have to close now & go to bed so write soon. I fact write on the same day you receive this. Inclosed as you all ready know is a self addressed envelope.
(no signature)
I don't have Bo's reply (why aren't the letters from his family around?), but a few days later (gee, the air mail was fast!), Jack wrote again:
May 20 1942
Dear Bo
I got your letter in reply to mine & was dissapointed. If some one wrote me & told me I could have most anything I would have gone higher than 2.95 I would have hit the $100.00 mark or something. Well kid I am sending 10.00 and want you to go out and blow it.
I got a letter from Wayne and he told me about everything & how his pocketbook was getting along so I sent him $5. He has been doing much except run around.
I got a letter form Mrs. Goodwin & a letter from Ma today. She didn't have much to say but was glad to hear from her anyway. She said she may go to York, boy that would be swell I think. Tell Tuck and Jim I said hello & will write as soon as I get a chance.
Ill close now & write soon.
Jack.
Bo must have sent a thank-you note, and here is Jack's reply.
May 28, 1942
Dear Bo
Well I got your letter this morning and that first page really builds a guy up. Well if you need any more money to go home on or just need any money write me or if you don't have time just send a wire and I'll send you what you need.
Boy out here we really know we are at war, as we go in to the gates at nights we have a machine gun staring us in the face, and it isn't just for looks either. I noticed that all the Marines had belts of tear gas bombs. I saw a submarine come in yesterday and also saw it while I was in the yards this morning.
Say Florence would you like to come here and work & make some money or would you rather go to school, if you want to come here I will furnish all necessary money to get here & get started. But if you start to school you will have to go until you are through & I don't mean the summer.
Ma wrote and said she hadn't heard anymore about going to York so she probable won't get to go. I got a letter from Wayne but he didn't say a whole lot, he just told me what he had been doing and thats about all. Say tell Margaret & Jim to write and give me there address & I'll try and write them. Boy to write to every body keeps me busy because I only have about 2 hours a day to do it in.
Well I close now & you better write soon. Don't forget what I said about any money.
Jack
a week latter
May 30
I'm sorry I did sent this but forgot to. How did you come out on the election.
As you know, during the early years of the war, before Jack joined the United States Army Air Corps, he worked in the shipyards of Bremerton, Washington. In 1942, they were repairing many of the ships damaged at Pearl Harbor.
The first bunch of letters are from Washington. Because Jack's handwriting is not always the most legible, I'll type them out. I'll keep his spelling errors.
And so he wrote:
Miss Florence E______
Hulitt Hall
York Nebr.
May 16 1942
Dear Bo
Well I am writing you to find out what you want for your birthday. The skys the limit and you can have what you want. I made 12.92 + 6¢ a hour for G.Y. last night so you can see I'll have a little money. I'll get around $70 for this weeks work and will get paid on Friday so answer me right away. You can have some money or Ill send you some thing from here. I haven't been working very hard but have been putting in long hours. I am learning how to weld all over again, what they taught me in Vegas was all wrong, but I'll be making $7.43 a day while learning.
Just ate Breakfast & am getting ready to go to bed (12:00 noon) I got a letter from Ma but she didn't say much as usual. Well I hope you are really knoking them over a college. Us E______s have it in us but know one nows it, ain't that right kid. Now listen Florence Emma if there is any thing you want just let your little brother in on it and we'll see what we can do about it.
Well I'll have to close now & go to bed so write soon. I fact write on the same day you receive this. Inclosed as you all ready know is a self addressed envelope.
(no signature)
I don't have Bo's reply (why aren't the letters from his family around?), but a few days later (gee, the air mail was fast!), Jack wrote again:
May 20 1942
Dear Bo
I got your letter in reply to mine & was dissapointed. If some one wrote me & told me I could have most anything I would have gone higher than 2.95 I would have hit the $100.00 mark or something. Well kid I am sending 10.00 and want you to go out and blow it.
I got a letter from Wayne and he told me about everything & how his pocketbook was getting along so I sent him $5. He has been doing much except run around.
I got a letter form Mrs. Goodwin & a letter from Ma today. She didn't have much to say but was glad to hear from her anyway. She said she may go to York, boy that would be swell I think. Tell Tuck and Jim I said hello & will write as soon as I get a chance.
Ill close now & write soon.
Jack.
Bo must have sent a thank-you note, and here is Jack's reply.
May 28, 1942
Dear Bo
Well I got your letter this morning and that first page really builds a guy up. Well if you need any more money to go home on or just need any money write me or if you don't have time just send a wire and I'll send you what you need.
Boy out here we really know we are at war, as we go in to the gates at nights we have a machine gun staring us in the face, and it isn't just for looks either. I noticed that all the Marines had belts of tear gas bombs. I saw a submarine come in yesterday and also saw it while I was in the yards this morning.
Say Florence would you like to come here and work & make some money or would you rather go to school, if you want to come here I will furnish all necessary money to get here & get started. But if you start to school you will have to go until you are through & I don't mean the summer.
Ma wrote and said she hadn't heard anymore about going to York so she probable won't get to go. I got a letter from Wayne but he didn't say a whole lot, he just told me what he had been doing and thats about all. Say tell Margaret & Jim to write and give me there address & I'll try and write them. Boy to write to every body keeps me busy because I only have about 2 hours a day to do it in.
Well I close now & you better write soon. Don't forget what I said about any money.
Jack
a week latter
May 30
I'm sorry I did sent this but forgot to. How did you come out on the election.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
"It sounds better since I had it fixed"
Though we took 1,000 pounds to the dump, not all objects found during the Crapture were crap. There were some golden nuggets!
One of them was a candy box filled with dozens and dozens of letters from Jack to his mother and to his sister Bo during the war years. Though obviously he couldn't write any details of the war, the letters do give an interesting snapshot of a soldier's life.
I will be sharing some of them in this space.
First, though, we begin at the end.
I found this anonymous "Short Course to Orientation" among the letters. It seems to be a Navy missive, but I think it applied to all of the military branches. It is on a legal-sized piece of paper, which my lame scanner cannot handle, so I'll type it here. I kept the typos.
A piece of it is below.
SHORT COURSE TO ORIENTATION
OR
YOU CAN STILL BE A GENTLEMAN EVEN IF YOU WERE IN THE PACIFIC AREA
THIS COURSE HAS BEEN WRITTEN BY LEADING AUTHORITIES ON ETIQUETTE AND WILL PROVE INVALUABLE TO YOU.
1. Upon arriving in America, you will be amazed at the large number of beautiful girls wandering about. Remember boys, New York is not Guam or the Phillipines. Many of these girls have occupations, such as stenographers, sales girls, or beauty operators. Therefore, you do not approach them with "How Much?" A proper approach is, "Isn't it a beautiful day?" or "Were you ever in Scranton?" Then you ask, "How Much?"
2. If you are visiting at someone's home, and after spending the night are awakened by a gentle rap at the door informing you that they household is arising, the proper answer is, "I'll be there shortly, etc., etc." DO NOT SAY, "Blow it out your G.D.A."
3. Your first meal in the morning being breakfast, you will find strange assortments of food on the table. Do not be afraid to eat them. They are highly palatable. Such things as cantaloupe, fresh eggs, milk, etc. If you wish some butter, do NOT say, "Throw me the goddam grease." You merely turn to the person nearest you and say, "Please pass the butter."
4. If, while in a group you find a biological urge is coming over you , YOU DO NOT grab a shovel in one hand and paper in the other and head for the garden. You will find that 90% of the homes in the states have one room called "The Bathroom",i.e., a b athroom in most cases contains a bathtub, wash basin, medicine cabinet, and a toilet, and it is the latter that you use in this case.
5. You are invited to another's home. If, upon arriving, you find that all the chairs are in use, DO NOT SQUAT down in the corner in the manner of an Arab and assure your host that you are perfectly comfortable, have patience, and a seat will be provided for you.
6. Belching or passing wind in c ompany is s trictly frowned upon. If you should forget about it, however, and do either in the presence of others, just say, "Excuse Me" but DO NOT SAY, "It sounds better since I had it fixed."
7. When a t dinner you will be amazed to find that each item has in most cases a separate dish. In the Navy you have learned to eat such delightful combinations as corned beef patties and p udding mixed together, or lima beans and peaches. NO NOT empty each small dish into your large one to make the meal more palatable; instead, bear with these strange civilians and in no time you will b ecome accustomed to their "Separate Dish" system and you will enjoy the meal.
8. If you are entertaining at home and plan to serve stimulants (Combat Juice to you), you must be careful. It had been your experience overseas to find that such drinks as Underripe Wine, Alcohol and Grapefruit Juice, or a combination of gasoline bitters and water,wwhich our French friends call "Cognac" were in order overseas and that they were highly acceptable. However, your civilian friends are a little more discriminating, so do not serve any of the above if you wish to keep your friends.
9. If, upon leaving a friend's home, after a visit, you find that you have misplaced your hat, it is highly probable that they have placed it in a closet for you. You meet this situation by turning to your host and saying, "I do not seem to be able to find my hat." "Could you help me find it?" DO NOT SAY, "Don't anybody leave this room, some S.O.B. has my hat."
10. When a person has erred back in the states, especially in strange city, he is infomed by his associates that "Perhaps he has made a mistake" or "Perhaps he has overlooked this or that" If by any chance you feel it is your duty to inform him that he has made a blunder, DO NOT accuse him of having f..... up the detail. Politely let him know that he has made an error.
11. If your travels in the states, particularly in a large city, you feel that it is time to find a place to sleep, you should inquire as to the nearest hotel and upon arriving there, should register, after which you will be shown to your room. Remember, YOU ARE NOT IN COMBAT* DO NOT go up to the nearest house, throw out all the occupants save their daughter and go to bed with her.
12. You do not need to be afraid of bombs in the States, so do not wear your helmet in the house.
13. Upon arriving at home, you will no doubt be offered real American Whiskey. It is at this time that you will be called upon to exercise the peak of control. Merely accept the drink and in due time your glass will be refilled, DO NOT get a wild frantic look in your eyes, snatch the bottle from the hose or hostess and proceed to drain the bottle, cork and all.
14. You will no doubt go to motion pictures in the States. You must remember that seats are provided for all. There is no need for you to take your helmet along. DO NOT WHISTLE everytime a female from eight to eighty walks across the screen. If your vision is impaired by the person in front of you, merely move to another seat. DO NOT SAY "Move your head, Jerk. I c an't see a damn thing."
15. Do not go around hitting everyone of draft age in civilian clothes. He may have been released from the service with a Medical Discharge. Ask for his credentials and if he can show none, then beat the hell out of him.
16. Upon retiring, you will no doubt be given a pair of pajamas ot wear, or possibly will find them lying on your bed. (Pajamas are t wo-piece sleeping garments which are to be put on when a ll your clothing has been removed. They are not to be used as trading material.) Upon seeing these pajamas, act as tho you are used to them . A remark such as "My, what a delicate shade of blue" would show that you were taken aback by their presence. DO NOT SAY, "Pogey Bait, you don't expect me to sleep in anything as valuable as those, do you?"
17. It is exceedingly bad form at any time to open a beer bottle with your teeth, regardless of how anxious you are to get at the contents. In the event that the hostess s ays, "Please pass the nutcracker." DO NOT hand her an empty beer bottle.
18. Last, but not least, never strike a lady without tipping your hat first.
NOTE: Students, you should complete this course in etiquette as as to be ready to face society unashamed. If you are a gentleman at heart, these helpful hints will come easily and naturally to you, but if you are a bum, you may have to work a little harder at it . At any rate, don't fail to send in your application at once.
P.S. Here is another definition of "pogey bait," from MarineCorpsTimes.com.
One of them was a candy box filled with dozens and dozens of letters from Jack to his mother and to his sister Bo during the war years. Though obviously he couldn't write any details of the war, the letters do give an interesting snapshot of a soldier's life.
I will be sharing some of them in this space.
First, though, we begin at the end.
I found this anonymous "Short Course to Orientation" among the letters. It seems to be a Navy missive, but I think it applied to all of the military branches. It is on a legal-sized piece of paper, which my lame scanner cannot handle, so I'll type it here. I kept the typos.
A piece of it is below.
THIS COURSE HAS BEEN WRITTEN BY LEADING AUTHORITIES ON ETIQUETTE AND WILL PROVE INVALUABLE TO YOU.
We have only a limited sup ply of this "Short Course to Orientation" so we will have to operate on the First Come, First Served policy, so get your application early.
APPLICATION
NAME_______________________________ RANK_________ SERIAL NO.________
MONTHS OVERSEAS________ NUMBER OF TIMES IN ___ SCORE OF NAVY I.Q.___
OOD CONDUCT MEDAL (YES) (NO) Delete One.
MONTHS OVERSEAS________ NUMBER OF TIMES IN ___ SCORE OF NAVY I.Q.___
OOD CONDUCT MEDAL (YES) (NO) Delete One.
SIGNED______________________________________
This application must be accompanied by your records and your pro card.With men now leaving our organization to return to the states, we have found from reports drifting back to us, that these men are required to attend school for two weeks. The purpose of this school is to teach them culture and refinement in order that they may re-adapt themselves to the far gentler life in the states. You men are all anxious to return home and two weeks' delay is hard to take; so, in order to remedy this, we have compiled the following data.
After taking this short cours e it will be unnecessary for you to attend any schools. You m ay go directly home, confident that you are able to mix with any g roup, be it s aloon or salon. Our course c arries the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval.
EXCERPTS FROM OUR SHORT COURSEAfter taking this short cours e it will be unnecessary for you to attend any schools. You m ay go directly home, confident that you are able to mix with any g roup, be it s aloon or salon. Our course c arries the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval.
1. Upon arriving in America, you will be amazed at the large number of beautiful girls wandering about. Remember boys, New York is not Guam or the Phillipines. Many of these girls have occupations, such as stenographers, sales girls, or beauty operators. Therefore, you do not approach them with "How Much?" A proper approach is, "Isn't it a beautiful day?" or "Were you ever in Scranton?" Then you ask, "How Much?"
2. If you are visiting at someone's home, and after spending the night are awakened by a gentle rap at the door informing you that they household is arising, the proper answer is, "I'll be there shortly, etc., etc." DO NOT SAY, "Blow it out your G.D.A."
3. Your first meal in the morning being breakfast, you will find strange assortments of food on the table. Do not be afraid to eat them. They are highly palatable. Such things as cantaloupe, fresh eggs, milk, etc. If you wish some butter, do NOT say, "Throw me the goddam grease." You merely turn to the person nearest you and say, "Please pass the butter."
4. If, while in a group you find a biological urge is coming over you , YOU DO NOT grab a shovel in one hand and paper in the other and head for the garden. You will find that 90% of the homes in the states have one room called "The Bathroom",i.e., a b athroom in most cases contains a bathtub, wash basin, medicine cabinet, and a toilet, and it is the latter that you use in this case.
5. You are invited to another's home. If, upon arriving, you find that all the chairs are in use, DO NOT SQUAT down in the corner in the manner of an Arab and assure your host that you are perfectly comfortable, have patience, and a seat will be provided for you.
6. Belching or passing wind in c ompany is s trictly frowned upon. If you should forget about it, however, and do either in the presence of others, just say, "Excuse Me" but DO NOT SAY, "It sounds better since I had it fixed."
7. When a t dinner you will be amazed to find that each item has in most cases a separate dish. In the Navy you have learned to eat such delightful combinations as corned beef patties and p udding mixed together, or lima beans and peaches. NO NOT empty each small dish into your large one to make the meal more palatable; instead, bear with these strange civilians and in no time you will b ecome accustomed to their "Separate Dish" system and you will enjoy the meal.
8. If you are entertaining at home and plan to serve stimulants (Combat Juice to you), you must be careful. It had been your experience overseas to find that such drinks as Underripe Wine, Alcohol and Grapefruit Juice, or a combination of gasoline bitters and water,wwhich our French friends call "Cognac" were in order overseas and that they were highly acceptable. However, your civilian friends are a little more discriminating, so do not serve any of the above if you wish to keep your friends.
9. If, upon leaving a friend's home, after a visit, you find that you have misplaced your hat, it is highly probable that they have placed it in a closet for you. You meet this situation by turning to your host and saying, "I do not seem to be able to find my hat." "Could you help me find it?" DO NOT SAY, "Don't anybody leave this room, some S.O.B. has my hat."
10. When a person has erred back in the states, especially in strange city, he is infomed by his associates that "Perhaps he has made a mistake" or "Perhaps he has overlooked this or that" If by any chance you feel it is your duty to inform him that he has made a blunder, DO NOT accuse him of having f..... up the detail. Politely let him know that he has made an error.
11. If your travels in the states, particularly in a large city, you feel that it is time to find a place to sleep, you should inquire as to the nearest hotel and upon arriving there, should register, after which you will be shown to your room. Remember, YOU ARE NOT IN COMBAT* DO NOT go up to the nearest house, throw out all the occupants save their daughter and go to bed with her.
12. You do not need to be afraid of bombs in the States, so do not wear your helmet in the house.
13. Upon arriving at home, you will no doubt be offered real American Whiskey. It is at this time that you will be called upon to exercise the peak of control. Merely accept the drink and in due time your glass will be refilled, DO NOT get a wild frantic look in your eyes, snatch the bottle from the hose or hostess and proceed to drain the bottle, cork and all.
14. You will no doubt go to motion pictures in the States. You must remember that seats are provided for all. There is no need for you to take your helmet along. DO NOT WHISTLE everytime a female from eight to eighty walks across the screen. If your vision is impaired by the person in front of you, merely move to another seat. DO NOT SAY "Move your head, Jerk. I c an't see a damn thing."
15. Do not go around hitting everyone of draft age in civilian clothes. He may have been released from the service with a Medical Discharge. Ask for his credentials and if he can show none, then beat the hell out of him.
16. Upon retiring, you will no doubt be given a pair of pajamas ot wear, or possibly will find them lying on your bed. (Pajamas are t wo-piece sleeping garments which are to be put on when a ll your clothing has been removed. They are not to be used as trading material.) Upon seeing these pajamas, act as tho you are used to them . A remark such as "My, what a delicate shade of blue" would show that you were taken aback by their presence. DO NOT SAY, "Pogey Bait, you don't expect me to sleep in anything as valuable as those, do you?"
17. It is exceedingly bad form at any time to open a beer bottle with your teeth, regardless of how anxious you are to get at the contents. In the event that the hostess s ays, "Please pass the nutcracker." DO NOT hand her an empty beer bottle.
18. Last, but not least, never strike a lady without tipping your hat first.
NOTE: Students, you should complete this course in etiquette as as to be ready to face society unashamed. If you are a gentleman at heart, these helpful hints will come easily and naturally to you, but if you are a bum, you may have to work a little harder at it . At any rate, don't fail to send in your application at once.
P.S. Here is another definition of "pogey bait," from MarineCorpsTimes.com.
Pogey bait: Candy or snacks. The term possibly derives from the term “pogue,” used to describe anyone working in an administrative capacity. One would use “pogey bait” to bribe a “pogue” into doing a Marine a favor.
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