Posted by: notsofancynancy | September 12, 2013

World War II, chapter 81, Victory in Europe Day

World War II

Victory in Europe Day

Chapter 81

Unknown Soldier's Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

Unknown Soldier’s Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

It seems like these last few chapters we find Dad pretty busy. He is doing all the maintenance on his truck as well as trying to keep it clean in a not so clean country. Then he stands guard and works on his correspondence course. If nothing else it makes the time go faster.

6 May, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darlings, Hi Honey. I didn’t get in last night until 9 and took a bath and went right to bed. Boy was I tired. Didn’t get any mail so there wasn’t anything to write about anyway. I did today though. Got one from you and a V-mail from Aunt Rosa and Uncle George. So I felt better. The mail had forgotten me for about 4 days.  I guess your [sic] getting yourself a job spoiling Butch. When I get home she won’t have a thing to do with me. So you’ll have to take care of her. “HaHa” Won’t that be nice. We had a U.S.O. show today and was it good. I laughed until I thought I spilt a gut. They had two girl [sic] one a singer and the other just all around. And three men. I think I heard the best accordion player today. He was really good.  I don’t think I’ve had a banana since I left the states. I would even settle for a chocolate banana split. Remember the one I bought you. One of Rosa & Harold’s twins died about 3 weeks after it was born. Le Roy is the other. I guess I never did tell you about them. Died just one week after Mom did. Aunt Clara didn’t have much to say. Said Betty won’t be going to teach next year. Although they offered her $25 more a month.  Guess its [sic] been awful wet there. They hadn’t been in to the folks for a while. She says Pard comes home every time he gets a 48 hour pass. Guess he gets at least 15 hrs home. Well gosh honey this isn’t all the news but I’m all run down tonight. Perhaps more tomorrow I’ll see you then. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. I love you I love you I love you Mommie I love you so much. All my love, Lefty

Marvin Cain's Quartermaster Lapel Pin Courtesy of the Cain Family

Marvin Cain’s Quartermaster Lapel Pin Courtesy of the Cain Family

7 May 1945 Hostilities with German Forces end to be effective 0001 9 May 1945

According to Wikipedia:

Victory in Europe Day—known as V-E Day or VE Day—was the public holiday celebrated on 8 May 1945 (in Commonwealth countries, 7 May 1945) to mark the date when the World War II Allies formally accepted the unconditional surrender of the armed forces of Nazi Germany and the end of Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich, thus ending the war in Europe. The formal surrender of the occupying German forces in the Channel Islands was not until 9 May 1945. On 30 April Hitler committed suicide during the Battle of Berlin, and so the surrender of Germany was authorized by his successor, President of Germany Karl Dönitz. The administration headed by Dönitz was known as the Flensburg government. The act of military surrender was signed on 7 May in Reims, France, and on 8 May in Berlin, Germany.

8 May, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darling Wife & Mary Lynn, Well Mommie V-E day. Finally here we have been looking forward to the day for a long time. Once we thought perhaps it wouldn’t last as long as it did. But you know it was just another day for us. Had the same things to do and did them as usual. It wasn’t as we expected. Nothing of the sort. We didn’t even get any mail to celebrate on. Boy these mail less days are bad now. We sweat out many days before and still are.

That is it? It was a day of celebrating at home in the States  but for our soldiers still in the field it was just another day. We have all seen the pictures of Times Square and how they celebrated. It was not like that for these soldiers they still had a job to do and do it they did.

I got a letter from you today. Boy it sure was nice. Any letter from you is just pretty damn good in any language. I love you Mommie. You know the 1st of May I don’t even know what I was doing. Had to ask what today was. It doesn’t really make much difference. We work in the day time and sleep at night if we haven’t anything to do. And one should be able to tell the difference there. Wow it doesn’t seem like Mary Lynn should be getting teeth yet. Boy it won’t be long until she will be a big girl huh. Man the things you tell sure make me feel like popping the buttons a few times myself. Bet she is a little pill. And man how much I want to get out of this God Damn country and home to you and her. Will that be a happy day for me. I’m glad Mom & Pop like the idea of having Mary. I knew they would but with me over here and all I wonder if they didn’t think me sort of a heel or something. Just got “The Stars and Stripes” and there is a big head line VICTORY. Guess I am going to have to read—Little Abner. Well I didn’t get to read it but I guess the folks back home had quite a celebration. Well more power to them. If they can celebrate good??? I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. Gee Darling I love you I love you Mommie. I love you. All my Love, Lefty

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

My sister will turn four months old on 11th May I have to wonder how much longer it will be until Dad is finally sent home.

10 May, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darlings, Well honey this damn country finally warmed up. Its [sic] worse than some of those days I came to see you and had on a wool uniform. Boy I sweat today. I brought the truck in. Come up and took a shower and walk[ed] back though the park and what do you know a damn tire blew out. The spare to boot. Don’t know why it should have done that and it did and I had to fix it. And that was that. I sweat like a working man again. That isn’t the half of it. I have a heat rash on my face and if I am not mistaken I won’t be looking so good tomorrow. This Army is suppose [sic] to make a man of one. I would like to see him. I was never bothered like that before. Now every time it gets hot I do it. Lucky if it isn’t all over me like some have it. Didn’t get any mail from you today. Did get a letter from the church. Sure wish I could get home so I could get acquainted around there. It wouldn’t be quite so bad then. The way it is I just don’t know anything about such so I don’t do anything. I know I should but don’t. I have a “Stars and Strips.” I’ll send and you can read all about it. And it will save me a lot of writing. I guess you can read that better anyway. How many pictures have you gotten all together. I don’t remember exactly how many I sent but can come pretty close. Hope they all came. Well Mommie I hope Mary Lynn is pretty well now and not to [sic] spoiled. Boy would I like to see her. I love you my Darling I love you so much honey. I love you Mommie I love you I love you I love you so much. All my love, Lefty

13 May, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darlings, Boy two letters from you today. And did I need them. Came in from a long trip (just last night I told you there wouldn’t be much to do here) But the letters were sure good. We came in and had to go someplace else for supper because we knew we wouldn’t get anything here and didn’t have anything for dinner but a sandwich so was pretty hungry. Got fed though so everyone’s happy for tonight. Sure are going to have to get those GI’s on the ball taking those pictures. Going to have to have them. Have I been showing the ones I have. Everyone thinks Mary is awful cute. Bob sure wishes he had one of his own now. I wish he had one too. He would have a chance of getting out too. Not much of a chance without a baby though. I’m sure glad Uncle Gerald’s operation might be a success. It will be a long time though huh. Well it won’t be so bad if Aunt Dick can be there with him and see him once in a while. Don’t talk about warm weather to me. I’ll bet I sweat off 10 pounds today and couldn’t afford it either. Its [sic] awful hot here. Drop in honey and we’ll have a beer. I’m having one now. Of course the Ice Man doesn’t come around so its [sic] really good beer. The best I have drank over here. Now I’m out of something to write.  Sure wish they would release the censorship a little and maybe I could write something. Had quite a deal today. But can’t tell about it.  You know Mary is getting to be quite grown up now. Man if I could only get home. Boy Honey I’m hoping more every day. Well I love you my darling. I love you so much honey. I love you I love you Mommie. I love you Darling. I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty

Grandma Susie and Mary Lynn

Grandma Susie and Mary Lynn

14 May, Burgdorf, Germany

Hello Darlings, Well I didn’t write again last night. Didn’t have time. Had a 9:00 detail and was tired when I got home. I guess I’ll be having a little more time now for a month. At least things look so. Am on a D.S. [I wonder what that means?] and haven’t to [sic] much to do except keep the trucks going and that isn’t so hard. Haven’t gotten any mail for the last three days so really haven’t much to say. Have been discussing the chances of getting out. Cross your fingers honey. Perhaps nothing definite though. No one knows much of whats [sic] to happen. Well I’ll dream anyway. You know I might keep on and get something said yet. Have been shooting the bull and trying to write both. It has taken me over an hour to write the first two paragraphs and haven’t gotten anything said. Its [sic[ sure been hot around here. You know I believe its [sic] summer. Sure am getting to hate to do anything. Its [sic] just to[sic] hot. And do I sweat. Boy its [sic] cool right now though and I don’t think its [sic] as hot as in Alabama. So we have that to think about. Sure did a good one today. Washed my shirt and didn’t get it dry until to [sic] late for chow. The other was already in the laundry so I haven’t a shirt to put on. Did borrow one to go to a show. Had seen it before so won’t say much about it. Has Mary been learning more new tricks lately. Boy sure hope I get home to you two damn soon. Well honey this is about the end for tonight.

Hope I get some mail tomorrow so I can have something to write. I love you honey. I love you so much Darling. I love you I love you sweet I love you Mommie I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty

15 May, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darlings, Well honey I’m going to write if I get this pen in the same mood I’m in. I’m all bursting with news. Got a letter from Madelyn Murphy today. She is getting married in July. Let’s go to her wedding huh! Man she must really be in love cause that’s about all she talked about. He is a sailor and is stationed near Oakland. And man did she tell about him. About all I don’t know is when he was born. She even said she would send me a picture of them. Hope its [sic] here soon. I didn’t write last night. Had a drivers meeting and then went to a show. The meeting didn’t take long but we discussed it and the show was good.  Don’t remember the name right now. You say Pop is driving back to Kansas. Is Mom going too? Are you and Mary? Just checking up on those things. Information might come in handy. It always does. We have had Ice Cream the last two nights for supper. Man is it good. Hits the spot too. But darn weather cooled off and its [sic] {kinda chilly. You talking about yours and Mary Lynn’s appetite. Have a pretty good one lately. Have been eating all the time here lately. Making up for the times I missed. Sure hope we can keep on a steady diet now for a while. Sure sounds like Mary is gaining weight. You wrote 12# 7oz and Mom said 13# something. Sounds good to me. I’m rushing this have to go on guard in about 20 minutes. And that isn’t that long. I got a letter from Eva yesterday too and she is having boy trouble. AS usual. Said the one she was engaged to sent her some things from over here. I love you my Darling. I love you Mommie. I love you so much. I love you I love you honey. I love you. All my love, Lefty

VE-Day and no end in sight for the men of the 35th Quartermaster. After all these men had to haul the men going home as well as get supplies to those who were still in the field. The Quartermaster has a lot of work to do before they can go home.

Robert “Bob” Winter

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | September 11, 2013

9/11 Memorial~We Must Never Forget

Ground Zero, July 2011

I remember I was watching the morning news when the first plane hit. I was confused by what I saw on the television but was looking right at it when the second hit. One of the first things that went through my mind was I was glad my dad was not here to see this. He instilled how important it was to honor our country and he served overseas in World War II to help ensure his kids were safe in their own country. This kind of terrorist attack was what he fought against. So that his kids did not have to see such atrocities as he saw fighting that war.  I knew that was why he was called home in October 2001. To greet all those souls when they arrived in heaven.

I sat in front of the television and ended up late for work. I was stunned and could not have done my work no mater what I tried. My mind kept going back to the moment when I saw that second plane hit. I knew it was intentional even though my mind did not believe it.  I never would have thought that twelve years later I would visit the place it happened.

I had never been to New York before, in fact I had never been on a plane before I went to my Nephew’s wedding in New Jersey in February of 2010. I had a fear of heights which carried over to being afraid of flying. My oldest sister passed away in 1998 and I have always been close with her three son’s, who are only 8 years younger than me. I grew up with them and when they were young it was like we were brothers and sister rather than nephews and aunt. When they moved to New Jersey in 2007 I was devastated. I thought for sure I would never see them again. That was until the day the oldest called me and told me he was getting married. With my sister being gone I felt it was the right thing to do, to face my fear, get on a plane, and represent my sister at his wedding.

A fitting memorial

That first plane ride was one of the scariest things I have ever done. But I did it and it didn’t kill me so I returned in July to see the younger nephew who had the lead role in a play. I stayed a couple of weeks and they insisted they take me to New York. Now I had no desire to go to the city, in fact it scared the hell out of me, but I played along. I did not know what to expect other than all the really tall buildings and lots of people. I hate crowds and had a horrible fear of this big city. Lets just say that TV does not always portray New York as a safe place to go. That first trip conquered my flying fear and reminded me of how safe I always felt with my nephews around me.

October 2011

The middle nephew had to be away from home in September of 2011 so I went back to New Jersey for a couple of months to help out with his teenaged kids. While I was there my niece had gotten tickets to see the 9/11 memorial and invited me along. I was excited and scared. Of course it is scary going to a place which had so much devastation. I was not sure if I was going to be able to handle all the pain the site held.

Memorial Wall

I have to admit it was an experience I would do again. I was afraid that I would feel the terror the hero’s felt when they perished.  I found that the memorial was an eerily peaceful place. Yes I cried a few tears but I don’t feel like the people’s souls who were murdered still remain in this place. I was amazed at all the different nationalities that were represented there. All of us there to show our respect to those who lives were sacrificed.

It is really a peaceful place. It is unexpectedly quiet and serene, but at the same time commands respect. I found a bench and sat down to take it all in. It was a warm day and as I sat I felt a cold breeze pass hitting first my legs and then my arms causing goose pimples. I feel it was the angels who reassured me the souls are not trapped but have made it to the other side in record time.

Amazing water featured drown out the city noise.

The two big water features are amazing and they bring about a calm sense to the area. The noise from the fountains drowns out the noise from the city. You can’t help being touched by the memories this sacred place holds. It certainly is a touching tribute to those who fell that day, September 11, 2001, a day I will never forget.

A Family Member Memorialized

Let us Never Forget

Flag reflecting in a building

Flag reflecting in a new building. Notice there are two crosses also. I wonder if that was intentional??

© notsofancynancy 2012

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | September 5, 2013

World War II, chapter 80, Butch

World War II

Butch

Chapter 80

Dad Overseas

Lefty overseas

You would think that fighting in a war would be enough of a job but Dad must have been a little bored so he sent for a correspondence course. After all he now had a family to support and needed a career to do that. He has two lessons done and has finally gotten the results of the tests he had to take. Now mind you the mail service to those overseas is spotty to say the least and there are still letters and packages he is waiting for. I figure it will be at least a month for him to hear back from them. The first lesson he scored a 98 and with this next one being a 96 I would say he is getting good grades. Go Dad!

26 April, 1945 Quartermaster move to Burgdorf, Germany fifteen (15) miles NE of Hanover

28 April, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Well Darling I fooled around and didn’t get you written last night. But am getting an early start tonight. So maybe I’ll get a little done, if I’m lucky. Its [sic] pretty nice out today. A little chilly but one can stand that. The sun shine will come if it keeps on. I’ve had my long handles on and off so much they jump every time I walk by thinking they get to go again. Boy Mommie I hope that Dr gets you straightened out by the time I get home. I don’t want you wasting any time having to run to the Dr for treatments or shots. I just hope everything gets along ok anyway.

My mother suffered from endometriosis  and I have to wonder if it is showing itself so early in their relationship. This condition would haunt my mother causing two miscarries between my third oldest sister and me. After my younger brother was born she was forced to get a hysterectomy but by then there were five of us so I think that was plenty.  After all Dad is adamant he only wanted two.   They came from such different families. Dad being one of eight children and my mother was an only child. Dad was one of the youngest so he dealt with a lot of nephews and nieces growing up. Mom had no one except a few friends and some cousins.

Guess Mary Lynn is getting on the ball now. I never could get along on milk she will make that 8 ozs look sick. Next week watch out Mary Sue [a friends baby who Dad feels they are in competition with] here we come. I suppose you missed my letter telling about how I broke my toe. Well when I went back to La Harve I got two quarts of Champaine [sic] and dropped one on my toe and broke both. Boy sure hated that. Needed that Champaine [sic] The way it was Bob only got one and I didn’t have any. I brought the one back to him. Boy one kid has been gone and his mail just caught up with him. He has about 50 letters. Boy wish I could catch that. I don’t know though perhaps I have gotten all of it. Sure would be nice to sit down and read about 40 letters all from you. Man I think I could do it too without stopping. I got another test paper back today. 96 on this one. They skipped one though. I have gotten the 1st & third back and not the second. I must get on the ball and get another on the road. Have till the 5th. It must be going by then. You only have [a] month for each lesson. This one is on exterior finishing of houses. Am just to where they are boxing the windows. Not a bad subject either. I haven’t seen a show for some time. At least a week. Sure wish they would get one here. Could use a little morale raising. Well darling. I must close now. Think I’ll read a little and then go to bed. Am tired—got up at 5:30 this morning. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. I love you & Mary Lynn. All my love, Lefty (10 more pictures)

Shirley B. Wood, Reynold G. Hansen, Allen L. Ozanne

Shirley B. Wood, Reynold G. Hansen, Allen L. Ozanne Photo Courtesy of Marvin Cain’s Family

30 April, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter. Well Gosh here I am again. Didn’t write last night. There just wasn’t a darn thing to write about. I didn’t do much yesterday and what I did do I couldn’t write. But believe me it wasn’t anymore than I had to do. Broke an oil line on the truck and by Christ it took Bob and I two hours to put a new one on. Man they can sure put things in the Darndest places to fix. Guess they didn’t realize it would ever brake [sic]. I got two letters today. One from you and Mom. They were both pretty nice and I hadn’t gotten any mail for about three days so I really got a bang out of them. Boy your mail has been coming right through. In about 7-10 days. Good Huh? Say Mommie you said you were a hostess at the next Starette Meeting and had to furnish drinks and such. I have a quart of cognac want me to send that. Of course it may not fit the purpose. But I’ll bet everyone would have a good time. What would George think? I am in the doghouse now. I’ll bet that locket and ring Dick and Gerald sent are nice. Gosh she is getting so many things. I just can’t realize just what she has. You tell me and I try to picture that and what it looks like and I can’t. But I’ll get to see them someday if the boat don’t sink. Might be a couple years but we have hopes. I was talking to a couple Nebr. Boys today. Didn’t know either one of them but we sure had quite a talk. One was from Broken Bow and one from North Platte. It sure seemed good to talk to them. We exchanged a few stories and such.  Bob and I haven’t had a good talk for a long time. So I don’t know how Madeline is. Guess they have had the snow. Bob did say tonight he had a sweet letter from her so guess she is on the ball. It sure doesn’t seem that Roberta’s baby is 6 months old. Its [sic] even hard to believe Mary Lynn is almost 4. Time sure has flown and has the water gone under the bridge. Yes I guess so. I have 10 more pictures to send tonight and I think 9 left. So I’ll get them all on the road as soon as possible. Perhaps I’ll send them in Mom’s letter. I love you my Darlings. I love you so much honey. I love you I love you I love you so much my Darling. All my love, Lefty

2 May, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darlings, Guess what? I did it again. Didn’t write last night. There just wasn’t a darn thing to say. Didn’t get in until after nine and was awful tired so went to bed. Didn’t get any mail yesterday so there wasn’t a darn thing to write. Man I thought before things were darn scarce to write. But anymore its [sic] worse. Once in a while we did something to write about. Perhaps we are now and just can’t write it. Think so?

It is hints like this that really make me wonder what really is going on around him. I know  they are doing things that they cannot talk about, but you can hardly tell there is a war going on reading these letters.

I got two letters and the three pictures you sent. They were pretty good. The one of the four was quite good. I love that thumb in Mary’s mouth. She looks like she is the queen of the coop. Rowan didn’t look like she cared but Mary sure does. The sun must have been shining she has her eyes squinted. The others were quite good except a little blurred. Your telling of Riverside Rancho made me homesick. Boy sure wish I could go to a dance. Man we have a mess hall finally where we can sit with our legs under a table again and also have a phonograph fixed up to play in each of the two rooms. Boy the music sure hits the spot. You almost get rhythm in your eating. When I get home you better have your dancing shoes polished.  Ruth said she got locked in the rain the other day. Said Carolyn locked the door and couldn’t get it opened again. I’ll bet someone got tanned. She said she had to crawl through a window to get in. I heard about Butchie being a name. But I thought that was in the funnies. The name might last her the rest of her life. But I’ll just call her Butch. Butchie sounds too sissified to me. And by the sounds of the temper and things she isn’t a sissy.

written on back: Mary Lynn eating his firs ice cream cone

written on back: Mary Lynn eating her first ice cream cone

And that is how my sister got her first nickname. You know when I was working with our family pictures I came across one that called my sister Butchie and wondered who that was. I am glad I can put a story to the picture.

Here I am back again. First I got all the pictures you sent and looked at them. Boy I can sure see the change in Butch in them. Then I took the last ones over and showed them to Bob. He had just finished a bath. He thought they were good and then I had to talk a while. And here it is 9:30 and I started this at 6:30 so you see. I’m not feeling just right tonight. Nose is all plugged up and head kinda hurts. Guess I have a cold and have been sleeping in a room with not enough ventilation. That’s the whole thing. Have to [sic] much blackout. I love you my Darling. I love you I love you honey I love you so much Mommie.  All my love, Lefty (the last of the pictures I have are here)

Written on back "Rowan and Mary Lynn-She thinks she has had her picture "took" enough!

Written on back “Rowan and Mary Lynn-She thinks she has had her picture “took” enough!

3 March, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darlings, Well Mommie here I am again. Went down to drink some beer and it didn’t even look good so here I am. All I want now is to be home with you and Mary Lynn. The Company has gotten some beer somewhere and are having a time. Not many are there though. The beer isn’t so good. You know Mommie I wish you could have had some way to have been looking out the window with me tonight. Boy waite [sic] until I can tell you about what we saw and also about this damn country. I just don’t know honey. I got busy and finished another lesson today.  Now I have to do the test and send it in. Should do that tomorrow. It is suppose [sic] to be on the road by the 5th and that isn’t very far away. (this pen is getting awful dirty) (it almost won’t write) [There is a big blob of ink on the paper and he changes colors] Now I cleaned the damn thing and see what it did. Well maybe it will do better from here on. I hope. I’ll get along fine on what I get. I have been wondering about you though. How are you getting along? I got another raise when I made PFC. $4.80 so I’m getting 8 something now and not a damn place to spend that. I’ll  save it and maybe something will turn up who knows. Boy have I a cold. About all I get done is blow my nose and man I think I about have my blower blowed out. Sure hope it doesn’t last long. Cause I hate to have things hanging on. Should write some more letters too. But sure ain’t in the mood. I’m going to bed. By Gosh honey I guess I just don’t know what to write. I can’t think straight. All plugged up. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. I love you I love you sweetheart. I love you I love you Mommie. All my love, Lefty

Dad tries out his typing skills 5 May 1945

Dad tries out his typing skills 5 May 1945

5 May, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darlings, Hello Honey how are you and Mary. I am fine I hope except for this cold I have and I think it is getting better but I’m  not building my hopes too high. Anything can happen and I wouldn’t drought [sic] but what it will. This is the first time I have done any typing for a long time and boy are the key’s ever mixed up. But I didn’t have any thing else to do for a while and thought I would try anyway. Didn’t get any mail today so haven’t any thing to write much. Did get a letter from Lucille though. She didn’t have much to say. Only the usual things. She said that the yard was all dug up for the water and didn’t know just when they would get it all in. I guess the kids were in the last day of school and she seemed very happy about that. She said that they had gone on a hike and in the afternoon they were going to tour the town. I didn’t write last night because I was on guard and didn’t get off until midnight. Boy that was a long time. It wasn’t so cold though so we had that to our advantage. Man one would think the country would warm up some but it sure doesn’t seem like it will ever do it. I don’t know how the people get along around here. Even the thought of getting out turns my stomach. I sent in the fourth lesson today. Man I wish I had the other ten in. I have been so busy doing nothing that I hardly have time to do anything like that anymore. It’s still very interesting though and I still like it very much. Just running my head off though and haven’t the time to do it. But I’ll get it done. I’m getting my truck in pretty good condition now. It sure was a wreck when I got it. I guess it will out last the war though. I sure hope so I don’t want to get out some where and get stuck. But I’m not worried about that now. It hasn’t gotten me into any trouble yet.  I was wondering if you wanted any more of that parachute silk. I have a lot more of it and I just haven’t sent it home. I guess I should cause I have a couple of swords to send too and I have to get at it. Man if I had sent home all the things I wanted too I would have had a house full. But the small things aren’t so bad. (I hope) ——— [the next page is hand written] 4 hours later and someone else has the pecking machine so I continue by hand. Haven’t much more to say anyway. Except of course how much I love you. Bob and I went down and was going to drink a beer but decided it wasn’t worth it so just talked over old times and are planning on going to bed. I love you my Darling. I love you I love you honey. Gee Darling I wish I were home with you. I love you both so much I love you I love you I love you. All my love, Lefty

A couple of swords and some parachute silk? It seems like my dad sent home some guns also as I remember one of them hanging on the gun rack that graced our patio wall. My brother got all the guns when my parents went into the rest home and I just don’t remember but it seems as though there are two that came home from overseas. I do not remember the swords.  I also have a vague memory of parachute silk and also will never forget the two wool blankets he brought home. They were so itchy I could not stand them and was thankful when my mother made them into quilts sewing flannel over them. Then they became my favorite blanket.

It seems like Dad is in charge of his own truck maintenance no matter who was assigned to drive it that day. Dad was always handy with working on a car and did the maintenance on all of our cars growing up. I tell you I spent quite a few hours with my dad under the hood of a car handing Dad tools and I would not have changed that for all the shoes, clothes, and make-up in the world.  I was my father’s notsofancynancy daughter.

© 2013 notsofancynancy

Robert “Bob” Winter, Shirley B. Wood, Reynold G. Hansen, Allen L. Ozanne

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | September 2, 2013

My Dad and the Shotgun

The Girls

Recently I unearthed some photo’s that were taken at the only slumber party I ever had. It had to have been about 1970. There were 8 of us girls there. I would say our ages had to be about 12-14. We were a bunch of teen girls all in one house.  I was surprised that my mom allowed it but since she did I was running with the idea before she changed her mind.

We got to use our patio as our own little private cabin. The sweet scented pine boards lining the walls put there by my father’s own hand, made it more believable.  My dad had a brick fireplace built and the walls of “our cabin” showcased pictures of places we had traveled. The ones I remember most were ones taken of the hot pools and “Old Faithful,” in Yosemite.  A pair of steer horn’s hung over the mantel in honor of our ancestors who lived a hard life as homesteaders in Kansas and Nebraska back in the late 1800’s. This pair was given to my dad by his brother, my Uncle Mike.  There was an old radio and cupboard built into the pine walls. The radio no longer works but to this day it still resides in that wall right where my dad put it when they built the room some 50 years ago now. The shinny cement floor was always cool in the summertime. It was the perfect place to have a slumber party.  As each of my friends arrived Mom and Dad opened the door to our private cabin and let each girl in. The back door leads to our own outside private play area. The house we grew up in had a nice size yard and it was really a fun place to be.

The “Cabin”

I don’t remember much of the actual party but I do remember what happened that night.  The boys we hung out with were going to come and crash our party. Our house was only one house from the corner so they would only have to go through the crazy ladies (doesn’t everyone have a crazy lady in their neighborhood?) back yard to get into ours.  Instead of coming across the back yards they chose to hop the fence that separated the front yard to the back. Unfortunately for them it passed right under my parent’s window. We knew the boys were coming and we watched anxiously out of the dog door in the back door for their arrival. What we saw confused us. When we finally glimpsed the boys they were running across the yard as fast as if a dog was chasing them. They hopped over the fence in one jump and were gone. They looked as if they had seen a ghost, and we were perplexed at why they did not stop and come to the dog door as planned. As Cookie and I hung out the dog door as far as we could try to figure out where they went, the door from the house to the patio slowly opened…I jumped, could it be a ghost that scared the boys away? Our house was quiet except for labored breathing of the girls that were behind me now, mouths open and eyes wide. It seemed like it took forever for that door to open. When our eyes adjusted to the dark there stood my Dad with shotgun in hand.  Cookie and I knew we were in trouble but still we tried to act like we did not know those boys plans.

Cookie in her Jamies

I will never forget how my dad looked with the light at his back as he slowly opened that door to our dark cool cabin. He looked like a very tall shadow with the outline of that shotgun pointing in what we were sure was right at us! We screamed! It was really like a one of those slasher movies where all the kids got killed. Thank God it was only my dad and Thank God he was on our side.

It was a story we still talk about this day some 40 years later and one I laughed about with my dad until he passed. What a great memory that was and I am so happy that because of facebook I am actually able to be in touch with some of the girls from that memorable slumber party. And if any of them read this. Thank you so much for being a part of such fun memories.

© August 20, 2011, notsofancynancy

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | August 29, 2013

World War II, chapter 79, A Break Would do Good

World War II

A Break Would do Good

Chapter 79

Truman "Ben" Howard in the snow Guirsch, Belgium

Truman “Ben” Howard in the snow Guirsch, Belgium

Since my father was mustered into the Army he has been writing my mom almost every day. He has missed a few days here and there. According to the “Various Stations occupied by the 35th Quartermaster” document I have they are now moving every couple of days. In the last chapter the last letter was written on the 15th and there is not another until the 17th. Then they are sporadic throughout the end of April. I wonder what the heck he is doing to make him so busy so I will look for clues in his words.

16 April 1945 Quartermaster moved to Dolle, Germany

17 April, Dolle, Germany

My Darlings Wife & Daughter, Gee honey you have been neglected again. You know I think your mail is going to be a little lax for a while. But when I’m not busy I’ll be on the ball. Be sure and write Dad and let him know I’m ok. I should write that much. Your [sic]about the only one I ever get enough in the mood to write to. I got some more pictures today. 39 in this bunch. I guess one wasn’t good cause there should have been 40. I will send them soon. I also got a letter from you and a V-mail from Rose & Elmer. Rose didn’t say much. Just what they had been doing and that didn’t seem to be to [sic] much. I’m glad Mom enjoyed her visit. Boy sure wish I could go on a visit sometimes. Man a break would do good. I guess we have had them though. Sounds like your troubles with Mary are just beginning her staying awake now. Boy won’t be long until she will be up and running. Well you know honey if Mary is a jabber box she sure doesn’t take after me. I don’t talk enough. Your suppose [sic] to holler and act up so everyone knows you [are] either trying to suck ass or make a damn fool of yourself. Of course if you don’t want to work or do anything like such just holler around and show off because if you make enough noise that’s enough. Well honey I love you very much I love you my Darling I love you Honey. I love you I love you. All my love, Lefty

20 April 1945 Quartermaster moved to east of Tangerhutte, German approximately four (4) miles west of Elbe river

21 April, Tangerhutte, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Hi Honey, It seems like a long time since I wrote or does it. Time has gone so fast I haven’t had time to catch up. I haven’t written for two days anyway. The first night I was gone and didn’t get back until after eleven so I went right to bed. Was tired. I have 56 more pictures to send home. I’ll send a few of me this time. I have gotten my own film back. The only thing wrong the picture I took of the Dutch Mill wasn’t good. The only one in 5 rolls that wasn’t. But I have part of it. I got lots of mail while I was gone. 2 letters from you one from Mrs Johnson, Lucille, Norma, Dorothy Peterson also a roll of film from Norma. You know for all the letters I got I haven’t much to say. The dog I had back home died. Remember the one that was at Elmer’s and Rose’s when we were there. Old age I guess. Its [sic] raining here today. For a change it is good. Been awful dusty. And I hate dust. It hasn’t done so bad though. Just sprinkled so far. And I imagine it will quit. You know you were talking about some of the pictures I sent looking like the country around home. Most of it does. Its [sic] good farming land here. And even though the people haven’t much equipment to work with. Its [sic] all farmed. Maybe you’ll see a cow or horse work together. Or a couple cows or just maybe someone out with a shovel and hoe. But everyone works. They have to eat. I guess. Its [sic] pretty country. Gosh I didn’t realize you would get back allotment for Mary Lynn. I thought it would start from the date applied. Boy I’ll look good to you Huh! If Mary and Betty Wagner don’t get to Calif soon I don’t think it will do them much good. Do you. Jobs will be all filled up out there soon. And then what will one do. Oh well I have that to figure out too. Well honey I have to go again so I better start stopping. I have to get my stuff packed and all that. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. I love you. Sure hope Mary Lynn isn’t causing to [sic] much trouble. By Golly I would like to see her. I love you I love you sweet. All my love, Darlings, Lefty

Dad and Bob Winter in the doorway of the Windmill

Dad and Bob Winter in the doorway of the Windmill

22 April, Tangerhutte, Germany

My Darlings, Well here I am again. Boy been traveling again. Am settled again for a couple days. Got a rest. Think I have been working to [sic] hard. Well it is kinda rough. The roads just beat me to pieces and we have a few extra drivers so one is taking my place if the truck has to go. Boy I was looking over my letters and have I a bunch to write again. Man I didn’t think they could pile up so fast. I have about 6 from you to answer and at least 3 from Mom. Besides that I have 10 more pictures to send. You should have [unreadable] of them by now. I heard about the snow they had in the states. Sounded cold huh. It wasn’t so bad here at that time. But kinda chilly. In fact it hasn’t been to [sic] darn warm. But then we really can’t complain. Only the damn rain. It dries up. You know your description of Mary’s & Betty’s boy friend and date sure does coincide with what I told you when we were there. I said Mary was a go getter. Well gosh I’m getting no where fast and I was going to write Mom too. Here I haven’t enough to write you. Boy I’m about half asleep and would be the rest if I lay down a minute. Your right the light must have been just right when the photos of Mary Lynn were taken because the eyes just shine. Man can see them sparkle. So you mobilized Mary huh? Bought a buggy! Sure hope she enjoys it cause if she were all over town she should show her appreciation that much. You know it sounds like she is either darn independent or spoiled because Mom had to hold her to feed her. Sure sounds like Gerald had a time huh? Bet he could tell some good stories. Man sure would like to talk to him. Of course my stories and his would be quite different but interesting. [My Uncle Gerald was in the Pacific Theater Operation] Sounds like a good idea buying Mary some bonds. She will be able to use the money then when she wants it. I never really found out whether you bought that insurance for yourself or her. If you get it for yourself I think she should have some as soon as possible. What do you think? I’m almost for the insurance business. Well honey I guess Mom isn’t going to have a letter tonight. I’m going to bed. Have 10 pictures though. Ben took them. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. Gee Darling I love you I love you I love you Mommie. All my Love Darlings, Lefty 

Well that explains why Truman “Ben” Howard is in so many of these pictures. Someone sure had a good idea when they decided to share their pictures with their fellow soldiers. It has sure given diversity to the collection.

Trueman "Ben" Howard

Truman “Ben” Howard

23 April, Tangerhutte, Germany

My Darlings, Hi everyone. Believe it or not I got a letter written to Mom tonight. Guess what I did last night though. I got the one I wrote you mixed up and didn’t send it. So if you get two for the same day don’t mind. Friday the thirteenth wasn’t a day for me either. Didn’t do much. Nothing happened had a little fun and all that. You know if that box gets here I’m sure going to enjoy it. I know I would if it were here now cause I’m sure hungry and its [sic] a long time until breakfast and I have 3:20 guard to stand. Boy what a life.  I sure hope you get all the pictures I have sent. Am sending 10 more tonight. Also a letter for Mom in the same envelope. So it should be a big letter. We are kinda short on envelopes around here right now. So much else to be bothered hauling them. It won’t be long though and I will have plenty. You said I wasn’t bashful. Remember the first time we went to a show and the day your folks and you were out to Grandma & Grandpa Vance’s and I came out. Boy were they the days. Even now I have to laugh. Man. Guess you were partly right cause there was times when I thought my pursuit all in vain. Good thing I have a lot of patience.

My Great Grandmother was a Vance. It was at her brother's barn dance my parents met.

My Great Grandmother was a Vance. It was at her brother’s barn dance my parents met.

That is a major comment in the story of my mom and my dad and one I did not know. If you go back to the very beginning of their story [insert link] they met at a barn dance at the Vance’s in Nebraska. Mom lived in Kansas where Grandma Susie’s family was. My great-great grandmother, Pop’s mom was a Vance, in fact my Pop, was given that as a first name, no middle name just Vance. To me the above statement makes me wonder if maybe my father worked for the Vance’s in Nebraska. I also know that Dad’s best friend back then was a Vance. Regardless it shows that even back then Dad had his eye on this little country girl from Kansas. When you look back they started writing in 1937 and did not get engaged until 1943 when he once again came across this same girl where he just happened to be stationed on the California coast in 1942. I will always wonder if the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the war is what finally brought my parents together. Had my father not been sent to guard the California coast I am not sure we would have this wonderful story.

Went to a show this afternoon “Ministry of Fear.” Not bad. I hadn’t seen one for a long time and it did seem good. Got your V-Mail. It wasn’t the best but I sure enjoyed it. The only one I got that day. Boy I sure am sleepy. Was going to write Bob tonight but guess not. Should have time tomorrow. If I don’t I sure won’t worry. Only have three from him to answer. Oh well. That lemon pie sure sounded good. Man Mrs Johnson used to make us lemon pie.  Was it good. She would take it to the canteen and then save it until Bob and I came in. We had chocolate cake for supper. We have an awful good baker in the Co. [Company] Well honey I love you I love you so much my Darling. Gee honey I love you so much my Darling. Gee honey I love the things you tell about Mary Lynn. Boy sure wish I could see her. I love you both so much. I love you I love you Darlings. All my love Darlings, Lefty

26 April, 1945 Quartermaster move to Burgdorf, Germany fifteen (15) miles NE of Hanover

26, April, Burgdorf, Germany

My Darlings, Hi Sweet. Hows [sic] the little problem tonight. I got your letter of Apr 19 today. They have really been getting here lately and have I been enjoying them. By Gosh honey this mail right now is spoiling me. What will I do if it ever gets balled up again. I’m sure glad you are getting the pictures. I guess they would have been more interesting had I been able to write more about them. I don’t really know how much I could write. But wasn’t taking any chances. One time we couldn’t write anything. I’ll tell you all about them when I get home. You know I never get time to write you before nine. Had some funnies someone sent and I had to read them and here it is almost 10 O’clock and am I sleepy tonight. The lights went out last night just as I finished. Had to put the letter in the envelope by candle. I’ll send some more pictures tonight. 7 in all. That’s the end of another group. Be sure and look them over and if any are alike or nearly so send them to Dad. I sent him a box the other day. Of course I want whats [sic] in it when I get home but he has more room to do with the contents than you have. And besides it would be a lot of bother to you. I sent a couple German guns and a couple of knives. Not bad and might have some fun with them someday. I hope. Shorty’s house sounds pretty nice. Sure would like to see a really modern house again. They aren’t bad here what’s left of them but still aren’t anything like back home. That dampness could be taken out don’t you think. Well with a little work it could. Or maybe one just has to get used to it. Sure had a good bath today. Man I filled the tub (A bath tub too) about half full and just soaked. Man this life is rough. We have been awful busy though. You know Mommie from what you and Mom have been telling me of Mary Lynn I’m sure getting to know her. Now if I could only see her and really get acquainted. Boy am I wishing I could see you both. But I sure like reading about her. Clark usually reads what his baby does and I read him what Mary Lynn does. Of course his baby is about 3 years old . We have quite a line together. I guess I should quit and get the pictures ready. Boy am I in a mess. I haven’t written anyone in so long I guess they think I’m kaput. I love you my Darling. I love you so much I love you Sweetheart. I love you and Mary Lynn. All my love, Lefty

Dad wrote "Bob and Judson in Orleans, AND lady friend"

Dad wrote “Bob and Judson in Orleans, AND lady friend”

27 April Tangerhutte, Germany

My Darlings, Hello honey. I missed writing again last night. Seems I am missing more lately than I am writing.  It’s all in a days [sic] work though. I love you just as much though. Guess I just can’t think of anyone else cause I set down with 40 letters to write and you are the only one who gets one. Its [sic] late now though. The light should have gone out some time ago. I have a candle going just in case. Went to a show. “Bowery to Broadway.” Wasn’t bad either. Wish we could have seen it together. I got two letters from you yesterday. Only one got mixed up in some other mail and I got it today.  So I got one both days. They were good too. Nice for my morale. But seeing you would be much better. Or even knowing what was to happen.  Gosh Mommie I do dream of that cottage. You know sometimes when I’m day dreaming. I can picture Mary Lynn and you and gosh everything just seems so real. The things we could be doing. Going up to Mrs Johnson’s and just what each one in the family would say about Mary. And their meeting you. And then showing you two off to the rest of the town. I think that’s going to be about the happiest day in my life. If I could only get home to do some of the things I want. Yes heard President Roosevelt had died only that morning. Or the next. It came right to us. It was to [sic] bad. Everyone seems to be getting kick out of Bob’s and Judson’s “Girl Friend” They have more pictures & things like that here than any other place in the world I think. I would say they are the most immoral people in the world. I love you so much my Darling. I love you honey. I love you sweets. I love you so much. I love you I love you my Darlings. All my love Lefty (the lights just went out no pictures)

© 2013 notsofancynancy

Robert “Bob” Winter, Judson Haviland, Harmon E. Clark, Truman “Ben” Howard

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | August 22, 2013

World War II, chapter 78, Just Doing Their Job

World War II

Just Doing Their Job

Chapter 78

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

Notice the pup tents and look closely at the road. Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

You can click on the photographs to make them bigger

Still traveling in Germany the 35th Quartermaster is doing their job getting those supplies and such to where they needed to be and collecting the fallen. Dad is in charge of making sure his truck is in running order after it has been used by others. It is just another day in the ETO (European Theater Operation) when Dad goes out and finds two flat tires on his truck.

6 April, Gladbeck, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter. Oh Gee Oh Boy Oh Gosh another letter from you 28th not bad huh! Hope they keep coming like that. I was sure glad to get it. I also got one from the church. George put a note on the bottom. He was bragging about Mary Lynn. He said “Your baby was in church last Sunday and kept quieter than most of the adults.” What power of concentration! And at such an early age too!” She must have been good huh! You asked me to write him. Well I’m wondering now if he sent another letter or if this is the one. Oh well I’ll answer this one and wait and see. I’ll have to waite [sic] until I’m in a good mood though. If I only knew something about the set up it wouldn’t be so bad. Yes honey we have crossed the Rhine. And everything you said was true. Of course being on the outskirts of Berlin sure wish we were there though. Do you know how long it would take laundry to get dry hanging out here. Well I believe we could have hung it out last October and it wouldn’t be dry yet. This would sure be a swell country for a duck farm. And you needn’t worry about getting them a place to swim. Sure hope you get some of those snaps taken of Mary Lynn soon. Every letter I get I look to see if there are any pictures in it. I showed a kid that lock of Mary’s hair the other day and asked what color he thought it was. He said “I’m not color blind its [sic] redder than hell,” I thought it was red too. The new outfit sure sounds good. Sure wish I could see it. Sounds like you really went for the Navy blue. Say Mommie don’t rush yourself with the candy. If your [sic] awful busy I’m really in no hurry. I can’t think of another thing I want except you and Mary. And of course its [sic] me that will have to come to you. Hope I can do that soon. I sure hope Mary Lynn gets over being scared by the time I get there. I hope she gets over it soon anyway. Don’t believe I have ever seen a baby that wasn’t scared though. Maybe not quite so bad. I’m sure glad Johnnie’s folks are hearing from Bob since the Bulge. I’ve been wondering about him. I didn’t even know where he was but you said quite some time ago he was in Germany so I didn’t know. Well honey I’ve run down even if I haven’t said much. Didn’t do much today just fooled around. I love you darling. I love you so much. Gee honey I love you I love you Darling. I love you I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty (8 more pictures tonight honey. I must have skipped 8 somewhere because it coming out 72 instead of 80)

7 April, Gladbeck, Germany

My Darling Wife & Mary Lynn, No letters today. But I have one from yesterday I can answer. So maybe I’ll have something to write about. Say will you send me the recipe on how to gain weight. Boy sure seems like your[sic] doing it. Perhaps I just need some of your good cooking. I think I got something today. Yea a black eye. It isn’t black yet but its [sic] awful red and has a little cut on the upper lid. Nothing to talk about. But makes conversation. Playing football and ran into someone’s elbow. The songs you wrote about have heard “Rum & Coco Cola.” I guess that’s all. We hear mostly older songs. And they sure sound good. We had a darn nice day today. The sun was shining and it was warm. I worked on my truck this afternoon. It just came in from D.S. [I wonder what D.S. means?] and was it a wreck to look at. What was wrong with it you wouldn’t think it could have fixed. Well it won’t be so bad in a couple days. Can’t complain though. Tell you what I’ll bring the books home from my AFI course. They are quite interesting and I find it good reading. I have about ½ of the 4th lesson finished. It is on exterior finishing. It tells pretty much all. I’ll explain it more next time. This is pretty heavy paper and fills up pretty fast. Well honey I’m tired and must have my beauty sleep. So I guess this is about all I have. Isn’t much is it. The important thing is how much I love you. I do Darling. I love you so much. Gee honey every day I love you more. I love you I love you my Darlings. All my love Darlings, Lefty

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

9 April, Gladbeck, Germany

My Darling Mommie & Mary Lynn, Hi honey hows [sic] my Darling tonight. Boy what a night. We went for a walk. Of course you can’t go over a couple of blocks but we went all four ways and came home. There is a law against walking so we don’t do it. But it was too nice to stay inside. I got a letter from you and one from Bob and Norma. So it wasn’t such a bad day. Was on guard last night and slept late this morning. Then the truck was gone so didn’t have much to do the rest of the day. When it came in tonight there was a few small things to do so I did that after chow. Its [sic] nice to keep things like that caught up. Then there’s never to [sic] much at once. Right now there is a thousand and one things anyway. I got a V-Mail from Aunt Clara yesterday. She didn’t have much to say. She said she had had a letter from Mom and I guess Mom told her about Mary.  Say I guess Mary let them know she was around at the clinic. Good for her. Its [sic] no fun being around and not having anyone notice you. That’s whats [sic] the matter with me I never made enough noise. One thing you didn’t say though was if she was still healthy. Sounds like Phyllis is getting all worked up. Sure hope everything goes well for them. Wish her warms wishes from me. Gosh honey guess I’m all run down again. Sure can’t write much anymore. Perhaps sometime I’ll get on the ball again and put out some decent letters. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. I love you my Darling. I love you sweetheart I love you I love you. All my love, Lefty (The last 8 pictures are coming tonight honey. Now I have to get some more before I can send them)

There he goes talking about Mom’s weight again but in this case I wonder if it because he is not getting enough to eat. I wonder if that is why he is losing weight. What about this football game? How normal does that sound? I am sure after some of the missions Dad has been on there is a need for any kind of normalcy.

11 April, Gladbeck, Germany

My Darling Mommie & Mary Lynn, Well its [sic] sure swell out tonight. Just came back from a show. “Here Comes the Waves” Was pretty good. Had a lot of laughs. But I thought Bing Crosby was the wrong one for the part. It was crazy in places.

Back to the weather. Its [sic] warm in fact I helped load up today and really had a sweat up. I didn’t write last night. Didn’t get in until after 8:30 and had two flat tires to fix. And I never saw tires that were so stubborn. The kid helping me broke a hammer handle and it hit him about the same way that one did me if you remember. Only it didn’t cut him so bad. He really had a headache though. Boy I sure hope those pictures you had made of Mary Lynn are good. I’m sure wanting to see them. I got your letter today telling about them. It was written Apr 2. That’s not bad. I’m glad you are getting some that I am sending. I have 8 more now but am going to waite [sic] awhile. Hardly anyone has seen them and they are some that everyone one wanted to see. Well they did when we took them. I’m glad you got the letter telling about me being busted. Thought you would be mad. Well I was mad when it happened too. Mommie I would have to write a book to tell you just how and why it happened. I just got mad and asked for it. That’s the truth honey. What made me mad and such. Well I guess I just got my pride hurt and right now I think some can see what I said was true. Its [sic] my turn to laugh now honey. Well [sic] forget the rest. I don’t want to talk about things like that when I get home either. All I want to talk about is you and Mary Lynn. 

And he didn’t talk about it or most of his time overseas. There were some things he talked about but I have to believe he talked Mom’s ear off when he finally did come home.

You talked about writing Ruth. By gosh I haven’t even written Dad for about a month. By the masterful thinking I did guess I haven’t written him since I was busted. Guess I’ll have to get that done. How time does fly. Yes Darling time does fly. Its 10 now and 5:30 comes pretty early in the morn. Especially when you’re on the go about 18 hrs a day. I love you honey. I love you Darling. I love you so much. I sure wish you could send Mary Lynn here so I could see her. I love you Darling. I love you I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty

My sister was three months old on 11 April 1945. Dad has a couple of pictures of her but is waiting for more recent ones after all a newborn changes day by day. I hope she is not scared of my father when he comes home.

12 April 1945, Quartermaster move to Recklinghausen, Germany

According to Wikipedia:

Recklinghausen (German pronunciation: [ʁɛklɪŋˈhaʊzən]) is the northernmost city in the Ruhr-Area and the capital of the Recklinghausen district. It borders the rural Münsterland and is characterized by large fields and farms in the north and industry in the south. Recklinghausen is the 60th-largest city in Germany and the 22nd-largest city in North Rhine-Westphalia.

12 April, Recklinghausen, Germany

My Darlings Mommie and Mary Lynn, Gosh honey Mary was three months old yesterday and I did not even mention it in my letter. But I was thinking about it sometime yesterday because I knew what day it was. You know honey I got those three pictures today. They were sure good. Gosh she is just as sweet as you have been saying. Is the serious one though I don’t think you and I have a chance. She looks just like her Granddad Wikoff. Boy I don’t think anyone could find anything different in that picture. He was the first I thought of when I saw them. Bob sure went nuts about her too. Just the other day he was saying he wished he and Madeline had one. Wonder what he thinks now. I got the returns from my first test on my schooling today. 98 not bad for me. Sure wish some of my old teachers could see that. Would their eyes come out. I guess everything came today. The test-the pictures-three letters from you one from Mom and one from Frank & Dorothy. I sure enjoyed them all. Guess Franks have been having a time. One boy broke a collar bone and from what she wrote I guess the rest have had something happen to them. Worst of all the tractor broke down and they had one hell of a time getting parts for that. I guess everything was under control when she wrote. I think they had that show “A Song to Remember” for us one night only I was on guard and didn’t get to see it. The ones that did sure didn’t like it. Of course over here your taste for shows change a lot. It has been awful nice here today. But had to ruin it by raining tonight. And me as a sap had to be out in it. It isn’t cold though. I haven’t even changed clothes. The mail came just at the right time and I was out talking to Bob was the reason I got wet. We were to [sic] lazy to move inside. Boy sure sounds like Mary Lynn has sure got an appetite. Boy so have I. I guess I eat to [sic] much, but I’m always hungry and eating is the only thing that helps. Its [sic] getting awful dark now and the lights are out so I better kinda stop this and go to bed. Boy honey those pictures are sure good. I love them very much. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. I love you I love you sweetheart I love you I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty

13 April 1945 Quartermaster moved to Querenhorst, Germany approxmaetly 45 miles NE of Braunschweig (Brunswick)

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

14 April, near Querenhorst, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Hello Mommie here I am again. Believe it or not. Didn’t get to write last night again was kinda busy. Didn’t get in till about 12 and boy was I tired. Well I’ll live and anyway I didn’t have much to do today. I still have a couple of letters to answer from you. Good thing because I sure haven’t much news. I have those pictures of Mary Lynn about worn out from showing them around. Boy you should see them smile and look when I show her. Man honey I sure do like them. I think she is sweeter every time I look at them. Once Aunt Clara said Mom could write a couple pages on how cute she was. I can see where she gets that much material now. Gosh Mommie I just don’t know what to say. I sure think she is swell. I sure hope Mom enjoyed her visit with Dick and Gerald. Hope you got all the things done you had to sounded like you were going to have a busy day. Some of the trees here are about budded. Man they are going to be kinda pretty. It seems good to think of spring again. Because I really believe it is here and after the winter boy spring is wonderful. Well honey Its [sic] 10 and I have to get up at three in the morning so I better get to bed. Boy that is going to be a short night. I love you my Darlings. I love you so much honey. I love you I love you Darling. I love you I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty

15 April, Querenhorst, Germany

My Darlings Mommie & Mary Lynn, Gosh honey have I been busy. Made a box and it wasn’t a masterpiece either but it sure served the purpose. Here it is 9 and I’m only beginning to write you. So you can see this won’t be to [sic] long. Its [sic] been a hectic day anyway. You know we don’t know if its [sic] going to be nice here or not. It can be so darn cold one day and warm the next. Shall we say its [sic] Calif weather unusual. Yes honey the money I sent you was German. One Mark is worth about 10 cents now. So you would be quite rich if the money were any good. Its [sic] not though. But you can dream. Yes Mommie you sound like you had a busy time while Mom was gone. I guess she should be back now though. Hope she had a good time while gone. Boy the women here are sure the busy ones too. Got a letter from Rose & Elmer yesterday. Guess I should read it again so I’ll know what happened. Then I’ll tell you. Must have lost it. Oh well she didn’t write much anyway. Said the wind was blowing. Our mail is all balled up again. Don’t know whats [sic] the matter with it. Should be coming though. You know honey I think those pictures are swell. So do about half the others. Gosh sure wish I were coming home to see her. Well Darling I must get to bed. Its [sic] up early again and man this early mornings are getting me. I love you my Darling. I love you so much Honey. I love you I love you Darlings. All my love, Lefty

Five Generations of first born daughters

Five Generations of first born daughters, about 1956, and interesting side note. They spelled my great-grandmother, my grandmother and my mother’s names wrong.

Life goes on in the ETO. My father has been overseas for eleven months and my sister has just turned three months old. Mom is still living in Pasadena, California with her parents. Grandma Susie loved having a baby around and I know both she and Pop spoiled the heck out of my sister. I have heard stories about how much my grandparents loved having my sister around. Mary Lynn made it five generations of first born daughters. It must have been hard on my mom not having her husband around but then this was not uncommon in 1945. With a half a million young men fighting I know there are many people back at home enduring the absence of their loved one. I know most of our country was affected by this war in one way or another.

© 2013 notsofancynancy

Robert “Bob” Winter

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | August 15, 2013

World War II, chapter 77, A Driver’s Works is Never Done

World War II

A Driver’s Work is Never Done

Chapter 77

Dad and his Beep

Dad and his Beep

In the last chapter Dad made it clear he is done with this war and he is ready to go home. Unfortunately the Army is not done with him yet. He and his fellow Quartermaster’s have a lot of driving to get done before Uncle Sam is finished with them. It seems a driver’s work is never done in this war as there are provisions that need to be delivered, men that need to get to where they are going, and supplies that need to get to the front lines.

29 March, Lohnen, Germany

Dearest Mommie and Mary Lynn, Boy I have lots to write about tonight so I’ll dig out the paper and perhaps it will be a lighter. If I do I’ll probably forget all I have to say. I got the Easter card from Mary Lynn and you today. It was nice and the letter was too. Boy it sure seemed good to get it. I also got an Easter card from Ruth & Babe. She didn’t say anything though. I saw Lucille’s brother. Boy is he fat. Seems this country is good for him. But he like the rest of us has had enough and is ready to go home. He is doing the same thing. I am almost. Guess he has had a pretty exciting time since he left the states. I think by now you have gotten my letter asking about insurance. So that answers your question as to how I feel. I think its swell and in 18 years Mary will be able to use a little of that money. You talk about dreary weather. Man have we got it. Harker Harvey and I are sleeping in the back of the truck and last night every time he turned over I could hear water run off onto the floor. The roof leaks. But not to [sic] bad I guess. The floor leaks too so it runs on through and we don’t have to stand on it. The only thing dry about this country is the drinking situation. No drinking liquor. By gosh I would have like[ed] to have been over here in the Gay Nineties. I’ll bet the women didn’t ware [sic] all that crap. I believe they are getting civilized enough to ware [sic] a little bit now. I’m thinking then they even had the dresses off. Have you ever heard the line about the laugh boys in the last war feeding the girls in Paris the big he stuff. Well I think the women were just looking out for themselves and took the men for a ride. And they are doing the same thing now so the big boys tell me. Haven’t been there myself. I’ll answer Georgie’s  letter Mommie. It might be a little late because we haven’t much time anymore. And I am glad of that. Keeps one’s mind busy. I have been going to write him but just haven’t worked up the mood lately. In the mood I’ve been in it sure wouldn’t do any good to write him.  I’m not much on dates Mommie. I guess Easter just slipped the mind. I didn’t even wish you a happy anniversary this month. I didn’t forget just didn’t write it. Guess you’ll have to be my date [unreadable] from now on. Well honey I have some more pictures. I have an idea about. I’m going to explain them on a sheet of paper and send it. If it does pass the censor don’t mind. I have written on the back something about them so here comes the story behind the story. I think I’ll end this and start that. I love you so much my darling. I’m hoping too that I’m home by next Easter. I love you so much my Darling. I love you Honey. Thank Mary Lynn for the card. I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty

I never did find the paper with the “story behind the story” on it. Many of the pictures I have are written on but there are still many that are blank. This is why this journey started in the first place. It was to honor the men in those pictures. It has been interesting to now find out that the soldiers shared their pictures with each other allowing other’s to order a set of their own pictures. With what I originally thought were my father’s personal pictures show insight not only in his time overseas but also capture his fellow service men’s time in the European Theater Operation.

Dad Wrote "I am not sure but I think this was once was a house. several look like this "

Dad Wrote “I am not sure but I think this was once was a house. several look like this “

30 March, 1945 Quartermaster moved to Dinslaken, Germany

April 1, 1945 Quartermaster moved vicinity of Gladbeck, Germany

April 1, Gladbeck, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Gee Honey Guess I’ll have to do like some did just write April Fools and sign it. I sure won’t be able to write much anyway. I didn’t write last night. We had fried chicken and by the time that was all over with it was past time for bed. Have to get up early lately. The chicken was good though I thought.

2 April [written on same page]

Hello Honey. As you see I didn’t finish this last night. Got sleepy to [sic] soon. Just came in from guard and haven’t got to [sic] much time before the lights go out. So this might be short tonight too. Didn’t get any mail today so haven’t any more news. I have some more pictures. I sent 8 last night in Mom’s letter and will send 9 tonight. That makes 32 in this group. I sent 8 in another bunch. So you have 40 on the way with these. Oh yes when they all get there if you have two of that’s about alike why don’t you send some of them to Dad. I haven’t sent any home. We had a March day today. The wind blew, well maybe a little [unreadable] was mixed up too cause it rained. Over here though doesn’t matter what month or day it rains just the same. Sounds like Mary Lynn is really getting fat. And as if she is getting to notice things too. Sure wish I could drop in and see her. Man would I ever like that. Mommie if I ever get home I’m going to be hard to get outside the door from fear someone will want me to leave again. Boy honey as a letter writer I sure punk. But there isn’t a darn thing to write about. Oh yes was looking at a Dr’s book and know all about having babies. If you want any advice just ask me. Wow???? Well Darling its [sic] a short time until morning and I have to spend part of it on guard. So I had better close this. It isn’t a hell of a lot. But I love you lots. And to me that counts more than the letters. Gosh honey I just sit and think of how much fun we had and are going to have when I get home. I love you Darling. I don’t know what I did without you. I love you I love you honey. All my love, Lefty

Bombed House

Bombed House

3 April, Gladbeck, Germany

My Dearest Darlings, Boy the mail man was good to me again today. Two letters from you and one from Mom. They were the 9-10 but I sure did like them anyway. Boy honey the days just aren’t complete anymore without mail from you. Of course we don’t get them every day.  But I miss them then. Then I guess I have those most wonderful wife in the world cause I sure miss her enough.  Just seems I can’t waite [sic] another day to get home to you. God honey I couldn’t get along without you now. The sun came out for a while today. But last night on the last tour of guard it rained the whole time. I guess it rained nearly all night. Not much but enough to make it awful miserable. I was slightly damp when I came in. It wasn’t so cold though. Sure hope it clears up toot sweet. Gosh honey Easter kind of slipped up on me and was gone before I knew what was happening. I do hope you got uptown and bought something new for the day. Don’t just remember what I did. Guess I wasn’t working guess to [sic] hard anyway. (if I were doing anything) I guess Bob and I have switched to barns. I’m supposed to build Bob a barn when I get home.  Have the blue prints in one of the books and have been trying to sell him the idea. It is a good one but it would take a small fortune to build. Anyway we were only talking. I am beginning to like the course more all the time. I have finished lesson three now and haven’t heard from the first one I have sent in.  Hope they get through ok. You know when and if I get home I might be able to find a school right there in or near Pasadena to go too. You know I think a lot about that too and the more I think the more I’m bound to do it. I’m thinking it’s a good idea. Nope Mommie I’m sure not sorry I got married. I have something to look forward to now. I have you Mary Lynn and look how much fun we have had. It was the best two months in my life that we were together. I just hope we are together soon.  Then on the other hand Mommie you have saved the money like I should have. I am awful proud of you and the things you have done to make me happy. Just hope I can do the same for you. And we can both be twice as happy as ever. I know we can if we get the chance. I love you my darling. I never did find out how much Ray’s baby weighed. He doesn’t talk about him and I haven’t asked any questions. He and I don’t talk to [sic] much anyway. You have the right girl though she did work at the store. I was awful surprised though. He usually tells about everything but didn’t even mention that. I’m sure glad Mom and Pop like Mary. I thought maybe at first before she was born they wouldn’t think so much because of me being over here and such. But they are just not the people to be mad at one. I sure think they are swell always have. I’ll send some more pictures tonight honey. What’s worse I’ll bet they never all get home. Well 8 more tonight. I still haven’t gotten mine so am still on the 80 bunch. You know the trees here are almost in bloom and flowers have been out from some time. Gosh it doesn’t seem that late. Its [sic] really chilly here. Wet too. The birds have taken a powder I guess haven’t seen many around. Guess they have gone back to the coast where they can lay eggs instead of bullets. You know there is a regular thunderstorm outside. Usually the Artillery makes one think of such but this time it’s the real thing. Perhaps Mary Lynn is afraid to sleep alone. Boy I was when a kid I just wouldn’t do it. Or perhaps she thinks your lonesome and has to take care of Mommie. Remember how you used to kid me about my styes. Now its [sic] my turn Ho Ho. Well I hope it is ok now anyway. The toe I had broken is all well except I think I’m going to lose the nail. Boy I don’t think I will ever forget that. So Mary Lynn does have red hair officially. I’m glad. Kinda like it myself. It will probably be blond before its [sic] all over with. Its [sic] quitting time honey. I love you my darling. I love you so much honey I love you sweetheart. I love you I love you Darlings. All my love Darlings, Lefty

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

Courtesy of Murray Combs Family

4 April, Gladbeck, Germany

My Dearest Darlings, Hi Honey. It isn’t quite time to write. Haven’t had supper yet nor the mail hasn’t come in. But we are supposed to have a show tonight and I don’t want to miss it. Haven’t seen one for so long I won’t know how to act anyway but I’ll go and stare. I just wrote Grandma and Grandpa Warta. I have been going to do that for a long time and finally did the job. Hope someday I’ll catch up with my writing. People around here have some well kept gardens. Man these German women are just like plow horses. They seem to be working all the time. Well they have a lot to do so I need to worry. That’s pretty good washing your hair in the wrong water. Had to laugh at that. My hair needs washing too. Want to drop over tonight and do it. You won’t have to save the rain water here. There is always plenty around. If not just waite [sic] 10 minutes.  You were asking about our lighting system. Well I don’t know just which area you were referring too. We have had anything from candles to electric lights. Right now we have a generator and generating our own power. Once or twice we had light from a truck and used a truck battery. We could see with them and that’s about all. The deal we have now we can use one radio. Hear it. I heard Henry Aldrich and some darn good music today. The news is what we listen to most. It all seems good but not good enough. What I want to hear is the peace treaty. The sterilizing of those bottles sounds like quite a process. Boy these babies raised the scientific way sure got a break huh? All the bugs should be dead after 10 minutes don’t you think. Well guess I’ll waite [sic] until I see if I have any mail today. So until then I love you Darling. There wasn’t any mail and we did have a show. The name was “Murder my Sweet” Dick Powell, Anne Shirley, Clara Trouer. Sure was good. Boy would I have liked you to have been there with me. It was one of those where you would have just cuddled down real close. You know like you used to do. Boy I love that. Gee Honey I’m all run down. All except I love you. I love you my darling. I love you honey. I love you so much honey. Hope Mary Lynn isn’t leading to late hours for you. I love you both so much my Darling. I love you honey. All my love Darling, Lefty

Dad talks about Henry Aldrich, Henry had a teenage geared sitcom, radio show which was quite popular. Here is what Wikipedia has to say:

The Aldrich Family, a popular radio teenage situation comedy (1939-1953), was also presented in films, television and comic books. In the radio series’ well-remembered weekly opening exchange, awkward teen Henry’s mother called, “Hen-reeeeeeeeeeeee! Hen-ree Al-drich!”, and he responded with a breaking adolescent voice, “Com-ing, Mother!”

Courtesy of Wikipedia

Courtesy of Wikipedia

I found this great website where you can listen to old time radio shows. I have listened to a couple of the shows as I write this chapter and I try to put myself in my father’s shoes. Did he laugh at this part or that? Did he listen to this exact show, did Mom?

(RadioLovers.com allows you to listen to old time radio shows)

5 April, Gladbeck, Germany

My Darling Mommie & Mary Lynn, Boy Mommie I got two more letters from you today. The 20th and the 27th. Boy the last one sure came over the waves didn’t it. Man were they good. If this isn’t to [sic] long tonight don’t say anything. We had a show tonight and it didn’t start until 8 and was extra long. The name was “My Baby Likes Music” Sure was good. Had one this afternoon too. It was “Experience Peerless” or something. Couldn’t see it quite so good and to me it was all mixed up. I don’t imagine we will have many more for awhile. That’s about the limit. Guess what. We had some chicken soup today. Wasn’t bad either. Somehow we came across a chicken and it was too damn old to fry so we stewed it. Man Mommie you should see the way we operate on a chicken. We sure do a sweet job of it. Sure have been listening to the radio myself lately. Just got the darn thing so it would work good. And it isn’t to [sic] good. Now can only get a couple stations. But one is an English station so we have that. Man Mommie I’m hoping you don’t have those treatments to take for long. Going to the Dr is bad enough. But I imagine that is little discouraging. You sure aren’t losing much weight though are you. Bet you will though as soon as it gets hot there. You know that pop corn you said you popped sounded good. I think I told you Lucille sent some to me and also Bob’s folks to him. We sure had pop corn for a while. We didn’t really have a good place to pop it though and in places it was kinda discolored due to excessive heat. They really have some good music now. Man I could listen to it for a long time.  You know I sure would like to go to a dance. Man by the time I get home I won’t even know how. Its [sic] been over 10 months now since I have been to a dance. Boy that’s a long time. Next month it will be a year since I left you too. And boy do I want to get back now. Sure am lonesome for you honey. I love you so much. Sure hope Pop has gotten ok with the back. Well darling I’m about run down now. I love you so much my Darling. I love you honey. Gee Darling I didn’t ever thing I could love someone as much as I do you. I love you Mommie. I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty (8 more pictures today)

I could not find listing for either “My Baby Likes Music” or “Experience Peerless” on the internet but the number one song from this time was “Rum and Coca Cola” by the Andrew Sister’s so I will end this with a link to listen to this song. Now let’s imagine we are sitting in the barracks writing a letter to the one we loved after a long day of driving supplies around but I don’t really think we could ever imagine what that was like.

© 2013 notsofancynancy

Harvey Hawker, Robert “Bob” Winter, Truman “Ben” Howard, Donald R. Edlund, Murray Combs,

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | August 8, 2013

World War II, chapter 76, Oh Boy a Letter today!

World War II

Oh Boy a Letter today!

Chapter 76

Heilbronn, Courtesy of the Cain Family

Heilbronn, Courtesy of the Cain Family

Dad and his fellow soldiers arrived in Germany on 5 February. The pictures from Marvin Cain’s Photo Album show there was a lot of bombed out buildings yet my father goes on writing like there is not a war going on.

18 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Dearest Darlings, Oh Boy! A letter today. Mar.6. Sure seemed good to get. Man we had lots of mail today. Guess a boat came in. Some letters were clear up to Mar 12. I only got the one from you. But that’s all I look for anyway. As long as I get them I’ll be satisfied. We had chicken for dinner today. Sure was good. Also had potatoes gravy and some chocolate pudding. And the usual. Seems I have [not] lost my appetite though cause I sure could eat. Had cherry pie for supper. Good too. I am sure glad you got the pictures. There are some more on the way and by the first I should have quite a number more to send. In the ones I took there should be a few more of me than in the ones I have sent. You see we have someone take the pictures send them in than order each a set. The last time I think over 25 sets were ordered. That’s a lot of pictures there were 80 in the set.

Heilbronn, Current day. Compare it with above picture

Heilbronn, Current day. Compare it with above picture-Thanks to Mustang Koji for finding it!

I finally know the story on the pictures. This explains it all. I have been lucky enough to have been able to share my father’s photos with several families of the men my father served with. As I have gotten on in the letter’s I have found there are quite a few men posing for the camera. As I transcribed the letters I have not seen some of those men even mentioned yet we have several pictures of the same men. Now we know for sure that the men shared their pictures with each other the way a family would.

Boy it sure took you a long time to write this letter. Sure hope Mary hasn’t been giving you to [sic] much trouble. Gosh honey I wish I were home. I just don’t remember who was by that hole. It was a bomb crater. Just one of the holes left the time we were bombed. Wasn’t bad though. I think I sent two pictures of the mule as you called it. One was Ben and one Edlund. The kid was French and owned it I guess. One with the crashed plane was Morris don’t remember any more. Tell you the rest tomorrow nite. Well honey this sure isn’t very long and I would like to write more  but have to get up early in the morning. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. Gee honey I guess I’ll always love you. I love you Darlings. My best girls. All my love, Lefty

Dad Wrote "Judson Haviland in bomb crater"

Dad Wrote “Judson Haviland in bomb crater”

20 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter. Hi Darling, Hows [sic] Mary hope in the best of spirits. Boy I sure would like to be home. But I guess that’s not just the right thing. Wasn’t through here yet. Haven’t gotten any mail the last couple [days]. Well from you anyway. Got a V-mail from Rose & Elmer and one from George and Clara. Aunt Clara wishes us a happy anniversary and told Uncle Gerald was home and what was wrong with him. Rose didn’t say much. Said Dad was ok and that’s about all. Was in Brussels again yesterday. I kind a wanted to buy you something but you know what you could buy for a dime back home would cost about $3.00 here so you could see what something really nice would cost. Saw some real nice flowers. And both Bob and I said we wished we could send some home. I’m afraid they wouldn’t look like much when they got there. That Palm reading was quite the thing. Hope the first part is right about marrying the spouse of your dreams. But the 6 or 7 kids is out.  I’ll have gray hair after the second one. I sure am tired tonight. I got to bed at 12 last night and was up at 6:30 this morning and have been going ever since. Have to work a little more now. Its [sic] a hell of a lot better though.  Gee Mommie mind if I stop for now. I love you so much honey. I love you my darling. I sure hope you and Mary are ok. Gee my Darling I love you sure do wish I were home with you. My Darlings your all I want in the whole world. I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty

I love that Dad and Bob feel comfortable enough to share their thoughts with each other. I know they really loved both of their girls. Dad expressed so in his letters but he also gives great insight to how much Bob loved his girl, Madeline. It was nice to find out that Bob and Madeline got married in 1946 and had two sons. My parents ended up with five kids, not so far off of the fortune reader’s prediction. If you consider in the fact that Mom had two miscarriages it was spot on.

21 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Here’s that old man of yours. You know if I were as old as I felt I sure would have made a statement then. But I’m not. Haven’t done anything all day so I shouldn’t be so bad off. No mail again today. Sure wish it would get on the ball. This waiting around sure doesn’t get it. Makes me awful, awful lonesome for you. You know I was setting listening to a radio today and dozed off and had the darndest dream. It was so real. You were with me, but Mary wasn’t and I’ll be darned if you could find her. Everything just seemed so real. God Darling I’ll be glad when we won’t have to be dreaming things like that any more .

It is sad that those nightmares would be replaced with ones of the atrocities he saw in this war.  My mother told me once how bad they were at first. He really had a hard time getting used to the fact he was no longer in danger’s way and was home safe. Back then they did not have a name for what haunted my father and many of his fellow soldiers long after this war was over.

I’m just not sure what I’m going to write tonight. I have scanned about everything I know of and haven’t found a darn thing worth a darn. I guess the French do their washing in cold water in the winter time as well as summer. Once we were at Chow and I believe it had been almost a blizzard all day and finally cleared up and here the two women were wringing clothes in a little creek. Don’t see how they kept from freezing cause I almost did and I could see they didn’t have as much on as I did. I guess they just use lots of elbow grease to get the dirt out because the soap they have sure isn’t worth a damn. They have lots of crude ways here. Well Gee honey I have reread all the letters I have from you and can’t find anything I haven’t written about. Sure wish something would happen so I could write. But then if it did I couldn’t write it so maybe its [sic] better.  I can always tell you how much I love you Darling and they won’t cut that out. I do love you so much. Say Rose said in her letter that Della May Vance got married. I had just received a letter from her mother saying she was about to. Now she dood it. Hope this time it lasts. My nose is sure itchy tonight. What does that mean? A pleasant surprise huh! I sure hope it is. Well Honey I got the second lesson ready to send on my correspondence course. Haven’t heard from the first yet. I love you my Darling. I love you both so much Darling I love you I love you Darling. All my love Darlings, Lefty

Book one done and Dad is about 17 lessons away from being a carpenter. I am not sure how much experience he will get driving a truck.

Dad and his friend

Dad and his friend

22 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Two Best Girls, Hi Sweet. Hows [sic] the small subject today. Not a darn thing special. Didn’t even get shaved. Had time though but just had spring fever and was to [sic] lazy. Got a couple darn nice letters today. One from you which was by far the best and one from Mrs Johnson. She sure had the news to tell. Mostly about us coming up when I get home. She was kind of put out that I wouldn’t write and request her to send me something. She is just that way I guess. She wrote all the latest gossip from Ventura which was very nice. Said none of the old gang had gotten married. Honey trench foot is a lot worse than either athletes foot or trench mouth. But as you say its [sic] pretty bad. If not taken care of it will cause the loss of the feet and sometime death. Its [sic] just pretty bad. Mrs Johnson said Dorothy sure got a big laugh when she read where I wrote of Mary’s red hair. Dot just hates red hair and I was always kidding her about it. Mrs Johnson said she bet Mary did not have enough hair to really tell. I guess she has quit working at the Canteen up there. Since we left there there hasn’t been enough business and what there was was all Navy and she didn’t seem to like that so well. She works in the school cafeteria once in a while now and several other things around there. Guess she has her hands full. You know lately there are two things I can’t get enough of. Eating and sleeping. Guess if I would go to sleep when I got to bed I would get enough sleep. But I have to have a couple hours a day to really think of you. Of course I always do but mostly the mind is on something else during the day. Oh Mommie I love you so much. Then I’m always eating between meals so when chow is served I can’t eat much then. Well my Darling I love you so much I love you my sweetheart. I haven’t told you lately about the toe I broke. Its [sic] ok again. Only has a joint in the wrong place. I must go to bed now honey. Must have my beauty sleep you know. Oh Gosh Darling I’m so lonesome for you. Sure hope Mary is well and gaining lots of weight. I love you honey. I love you I love you. All my love Darling, Lefty

23 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Gee honey is it ever nice out. The moon is shining and its even worm enough to be out without a coat. Sure hope the winter is over. I imagine it will be a little chilly yet though. Had frost on the windshield one morning. I sure wish you were there to have spring fever with me. As you used to say. In spring a young man’s fancies turns to love, or something. We didn’t get any mail today. I guess  the rest got some. But I’m the unlucky one for today. My day is coming though. I’ll get beaucoup mail. And then we’ll see. Walt and I were going to Brussels tomorrow only it was only a dream. We were really seeing the town. And those damn street cars. I heard someone express them this way. They had as many outside as in and they were really packed. Said people on the outside platform were hanging on to each other and from what I’ve seen I believe him.  Bob just came over and we have been talking. Don’t seem the same anymore since he isn’t here to heckle. Of course he is only about 20 feet down the road. But we have different jobs now and hardly see each other over five minutes at a time. I sure hope Mary Lynn is doing ok. And not giving you to [sic] much trouble. You know Mommie I just want to talk and talk about her. But just don’t know anything to talk about. Harker had a picture of his boy. 2 months old and Mary one. Boy she is twice as big. Sure looked good to me. I love you my Darling. I love you so much. Gee honey I sure wish I were with you. I’m awfully lonesome. I love you Darling. I love you sweetheart. I love you. All my love, Lefty

24 March, Bruggen, Germany

Hello my Darlings, Boy Mommie I got two good long letters from you tonight. Sure were nice. Hadn’t gotten any for quite some time and they are sure good to get any more. I love you Darling. Oh yes! The lock of hair you sent. I have asked about everyone as to whether it is red or blonde and the biggest share have said red. And I think so too. Well maybe not all together red but its [sic] almost. Talking about film. Awhile back I miss read one of your letters about getting film and requested you sent me some. Since- I have figured out you couldn’t get any for yourself let alone me. So forget my request. I still have a couple and someone will have some film around. And I think I can get some from them. Yes Mommie the Holland people are quite it. They are the best we have been around. The Belgium people aren’t bad but somehow the Hollanders are more cleaner. Once when we were parked near a Holland House the women scrubbed the door about 4 times.  Every time a truck came by and splashed  mud on it out she would come and do it again. All she had was a rag and pail of water. They scrub the sidewalls once a day. Once we lived in a sort of a dance hall and the people who owned it lived next to us and we had a writing room in their house. They really kept that place clean. Scrubbed about twice a day and were always sweeping. The men of the town were out with fire hoses washing the streets where we drove to keep the mud off. It was awful muddy then. And everything was dirty anyway. But they were very progressive. Seems as soon as the German’s were out they were working to build the towns and country up again. You know Mommie if Mary Lynn is big enough to play hide & seek when I’m able to get home. You’ll have to find yourself a new man. Christ Mommie I’m not worth a damn now what will I be in a couple more years. Gosh honey did I ask you to send gum too. Sure must have been off the Beam that day. Took a reading the other day and have about 10 packages of gum and don’t chew any—- too much so have plenty. You know maybe I have some hidden talents I don’t know. You say Mrs Grilla though I was a football hero. Perhaps she was feeding you a line. She didn’t ask for a loan after telling you those things did she. I guess I just didn’t have my mind on women when I was in school was the reason she said I didn’t know she was alive. Anyway she was just talking. I know her that well even if she wasn’t alive. I don’t know whether I told you or not but you’ll get one check of $30 and from then on it will only be $20 So in all you should get $110 one month then $100 from then on. Well I probably won’t be sending much home only getting about $4 now. But I’m not going anywhere anyway.

German ME 109

German ME 109

I wonder if that is per month. That would be $114 dollars a month.  What amazes me most is that my father only keeps out four dollars a month. As I look back on my father’s letters it is a common theme. Everything is too expensive where he is.

Except to Berlin. And that’s free of charge if I don’t get shot trying. Hope that’s enough for you?? I guess I’m going to have to pen a shorter name for Mary Lynn.  It takes me a week to say all that. Don’t get me wrong I think it’s a swell name and like it very much. We’ll see. No Mommie I guess I don’t mind to [sic] terrible much if you miss writing a couple three days. There was a time when I almost went nuts when I didn’t get your mail. But you soon learn different here. One thing just comes after another and they soon get so you’re used to it. And then it doesn’t matter. At first when the mail didn’t come it was awful. Now we don’t mind so much. We are all so damn lonesome we can’t be much worse. Could be maybe that’s why I took a bust. Perhaps someday honey will make that money back. But I’m not worried. I must quit now darling. I love you so much. Gee honey I love you. I love you my precious wife. I love you both my Darlings. All my love, Lefty

In my mind I can see my dad running around asking the other men what color that lock of hair was. He probably showed it around quite a bit to get a general consensus of what color it was. He seems really proud to have a baby. It is sad that she is two and a half months old and he has not seen her face-to- face yet. I wonder how old my sister will be before Dad gets sent home.

26 March, 1945 Quartermaster move to area east of Rhine in town of Lohnen

27 March, Lohnen, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Let’s see. Don’t just remember just when I wrote last. Must have been two days at least. Been awful busy. Haven’t even shaved for about 5 days. We got in about 4 this afternoon and by the time we had eaten and done the chores it was 6 and had to go on guard at 7. Well we have one thing to look forward to. The same thing tomorrow. I’d be satisfied if it only helps get this damn thing over. Getting awful tired having someone trying to kill me.

That is the first time I remember Dad saying anything like this. It made my heart skip a beat when I read it. I would love to know the details because if left to my imagination it is not such a good thing.

Hows [sic] Mary tonight. Boy I’m hoping to see her soon. But there just isn’t that much luck for me to have. Gosh Mommie I have a letter somewhere to answer, but I’m not sure where my things are. And I haven’t gotten any mail since the two I have written about. My mail calls are awful slim lately. I did get a letter from Eva. She said she had heard from you and some of her troubles. Her Bro is in the hospital and she feels bad about that. Otherwise she didn’t say much. I’m using Bob’s writing material. Mine is with your letter and I’m not in the finding mood tonight. Boy am I tired. I love you so much my Darling. I love you Honey. Gee Darling. I love you so much. I am going to bed now. I love you. All my love Darlings, Lefty

What really happened on this trip? Not only does Dad seem out of sorts but he does not know where his stuff is. He really sounds fed up with the whole war but as we know he had no choice other  than staying there and doing whatever is sent his way.

Donald R. Edlund

Donald R. Edlund

28 March, Lohnen, Germany

Darlings, Well Mommie if this seems to be dripped on don’t mind. Its [sic] raining outside and I’m a little wet. Not bad though. But by morning it might be worse. The Tops [officers] might like sleeping in a truck. When and if we sleep. Hasn’t been bad though.  Last night I said we should have to go again today. Well we got a brake [sic] and didn’t have to go out until noon. I didn’t get up until 10. Wouldn’t have then but those whiskers and wool blanket didn’t go good together and I had to get up and shave. Its [sic] a good thing I did. Had hot water and had I waited a while longer I wouldn’t have so I didn’t miss so much sleep. Its [sic] sure March weather here. All except the wind. It doesn’t blow so hard. But it rains. The sun did shine and believe me everyone had spring fever for a while. But that’s all over now. Haven’t time for daydreaming. There seemed to be lots of mail again today. But my luck still holds I didn’t get any. Oh yes I did [get] a paper. I think it was sent last year. So the news was old. Some of the pictures we sent for came today. So I’ll be sending some of them. I think by the time they all get sorted I’ll have 88 to send. And quite a few more are coming. Sounds like Kansas is having its trouble with teachers. When I was about a Jr or Sr about 6 or 8 people quit because they were pregnant but none were teachers. The teachers were all to [sic] old for things like that.  To [sic] bad about Deloris. It would have been nice had she been able to spend her leave at home. I imagine Aunt Maude was quite worried about her. Lets [sic] see Mommie. I guess I made a mistake when I explained the Dutch Windmill. The blades do turn by the wind. But when the wind changes you have to change directions of the blades by hand. The windmill I told you about was in Germany. I don’t believe I ever saw one in Holland. That[‘s]surprising isn’t it. Mary Lynn sure doesn’t seem to bother your weight loss does she.  Harker’s  wife had to stop nursing the baby because she was losing so much weight. You know in the picture before the baby was born I noticed you had a double chin. And by gosh in the last one you still have it. It looks bigger and better than ever. Going to have to get you doing a little road work when I get home.  Well Darling I hope you & Mary Lynn are both ok. I love you so much I love you my sweetheart I love you darling. I love you so much. I love you All my love Honey, Lefty (have 8 pictures to send in one group. Here are some)

Ok Dad, stop with the weight thing. That is just not a good thing to say to the woman who just carried and has been caring for your child alone for the last two months. My father’s aunts where pretty heavy and became and later became bedridden relatively early in life. I have to wonder if this is what sparks this kind of chatter. I also know these words would have thrown my mother into a tizzy. I really feel sorry for her and this is an emotion I don’t think I have ever felt for my mom before this journey.

 © 2013 notsofancynancy

Robert “Bob” Winter, Raymond Linden, Walter D. Huntsucker, Harker W. Harvey, Marvin Cain, Donald R. Edlund

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | August 1, 2013

World War II, chapter 75, Busted

World War II

Chapter 75

Busted

Courtsey of The Cain Family

Courtesy of The Cain Family

Now in Germany, Dad and his fellow soldiers trudge on doing things Quartermaster do. For Dad that means driving and I mean a lot of driving. He drove all over France, Holland, Belgium, and now Germany. My sister is now two months old and Dad has only known her name for one of those. In all reality we will never know how it felt unless we look between the lines of these letters.

10 March, Straelan, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Hello honey got another swell letter from you today. Boy you sure must have gotten the mail from me. 7 letters in three days. That was some you should have gotten when you didn’t get any. Guess you know how I feel about Mary. Sure do think she’s swell. What you have told me about her sure sounds wonderful. We went to a show last night. First one since the first part of January. Sure was good too. “Hollywood Canteen.” Sure had the stars in it of course the name tells you that. What’s this Red Cross Clinic you were talking about taking Mary too? The book says if you don’t understand the lesson ask questions. If I have any knowledge of girls I know the daughter will have a few more people beside me wrapped around her finger. It sounds like Uncle Gerald was a little worse off than everyone expected. That malaria just isn’t anything to sneeze at. Don’t get over that so easy. (if you do) Sure hope you get to see them when they come out. Say Mommie what do you think about insurance for Mary. And yourself too. If you could we should get something like 20 year pay or at least in that line. Then how about some kind of a savings for her. You said something about Stamps and Bonds. You know I think I can get something like that here. Or send you the money and you get it. They have a 7.50 bond perhaps I could get that. Not a bad idea anyway. Its [sic] bed time honey. I love you both so much. Gee Darling. I wish I could only see you. We could sure talk things over and then see how things stand. I love you honey. I love you so much I love you I love you so much honey. I love you. All my love, Lefty

Courtesy of the Cain Family

Courtesy of the Cain Family

The story about the “Hollywood Canteen” is a fascinating one in the fact that there was actually a real Hollywood Canteen. It operated from October 1942 through November of 1945 in, of course, Hollywood. According to Wikipedia:

Opened as a club offering food, dancing and entertainment for servicemen, usually on their way overseas. Even though the majority of visitors were U.S servicemen, the canteen was open to servicemen of allied countries as well as women in all branches of service. A serviceman’s ticket for admission was his uniform and everything at the canteen was free of charge.

The driving forces behind its creation were Bette Davis and John Garfield, along with Jules Stein, President of Music Corporation of America, who headed up the finance committee. Bette Davis devoted an enormous amount of time and energy to the project and served as its president.[citation needed] The various guilds and unions of the entertainment industry donated the labor and money for the building renovations. The Canteen was operated and staffed completely by volunteers from the entertainment industry. By the time the Canteen opened its doors, over 3000 stars, players, directors, producers, grips, dancers, musicians, singers, writers, technicians, wardrobe attendants, hair stylists, agents, stand-ins, publicists, secretaries, and allied craftsmen of radio and screen had registered as volunteers.

Stars volunteered to wait on tables, cook in the kitchen and clean up. One of the highlights for a serviceman was to dance with one of the many female celebrities volunteering at the Canteen. The other highlight was the entertainment provided by some of Hollywood’s most popular stars, ranging from radio stars to big bands to novelty acts. On September 15, 1943, the one millionth guest walked through the door of the Hollywood Canteen. The lucky soldier, Sgt. Carl Bell, received a kiss from Betty Grable and was escorted in by another beautiful star, including Marlene Dietrich.

A Hall of Honor at the Hollywood Canteen had a wall of photos which honored the film actors who served in the military.

By 1944, the Canteen had become so popular that Warner Bros. made a movie titled The Hollywood Canteen. Starring Joan Leslie and Robert Hutton, the film had scores of stars playing themselves. It was directed by Delmer Daves, who also wrote the screenplay. At the time the Canteen closed its doors, it had been host to almost three million servicemen.

I wonder if Dad ever knew about the real Hollywood Canteen. After all he was stationed on the California coast for quite a while after Pearl Harbor was bombed in December of 1941. I know that the 35th Quartermaster was driving up and down the coast of Southern California until March of 1943. It seems unlikely he ever went to the Hollywood Canteen but it is possible.   You know this history thing can be quite interesting, who knew?

11 March, 1945 Quartermaster moved to Bruggen, Germany for rest period

13 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Hi honey hows [sic] the daughter. Well heres [sic] the good news. I haven’t written for a couple days. Been gone again. Had a couple hours work that took two days and a half. Only I got down in the back again and came in last night about 10.  Was up to go again this morning but Bob took my place. He had to go as a mechanic so just went where I should have. I slept most of the time. The back isn’t to [sic] bad. Just having a little kidney trouble and that always gets me in the back. So I guess I’ll even live that over. You know today makes the third day and no mail. Boy sure hope some comes tomorrow. This mail sure comes in squirts and the squirt ran out. Sure hope Mary Lynn is completely over the colic. In your last letters she seemed to be pretty over it but now I hope she is all over it. You know the pictures you have sent sure have given me something to do. Now I can look at them and dream. I sure think they are good. You know I have a bright idea. You’ll have all the money you need. And I have more than I can spend. All the money I can send home. Lets [sic] either buy bonds or put in a savings for Mary. Now maybe I won’t have much to send and it may come a time when I’ll have less. But its [sic] something to think of. Now what do you think of that? Bob was saying the other day that Madeline had gotten a letter from you telling about Mary and if you wrote many more like it he was going to have to have a baby by proxy. Don’t know what she wrote but she sure envys [sic] you. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. Wish I could write more but I am about out of time. I love you sweetheart. I love you my Darlings. All my love, Lefty

Murray Combs Courtesy of the Combs Family

Murray Combs Courtesy of the Combs Family

14 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Boy got mail today. One letter from you and one from Mom written Mar 1 & 2. Sure seems good to have later mail. And am glad you are getting some mail. Guess all my efforts aren’t in vain. Now waite [sic] until the time comes when I didn’t write. Then you’ll not get any. I hate that honey but there sure isn’t anything I could do. Just wasn’t here.  You said Mary had gained 2# 9 1/2 ozs. Is that what she should have or in other words is that good or bad? Sounds good to me. But I’m looking forward to beating Mary Sue so better work a little more Spinish [sic] in her diet. Its [sic] like spring here. Guess its [sic] that time. Sure smells good. I mean the fresh air and all. And besides that it hasn’t rained for a couple days. Just when I almost had the web feet completed too. Now I’ll have to start all over again. Sure is a good country to be in though. I have made a collection of coins and plan on making some bracelets out of them. Tonight I polished them with what metal polish we had left and does the darn stuff stink. I have enough coins for about [unreadable] bracelets now. If I can find some way of fastening them together. I’ll send some home. Did my wash today. It didn’t get dry and have it on the line. Sure hope this isn’t the day the weather changes and it rains. Didn’t have much but hate to have that outside in rain. You know I sure hope this letter makes sense to you cause I’ve just written on and on and am not responsible for whats [sic] on the paper. Bob is suppose [sic] to come over in a little while and we’re going to have pop corn. Have been waiting for him so he can pop it. Don’t like to myself. Sounds like Mom sure does enjoy having Mary around huh! Sure like to get her letters telling me what she does. Of course I love yours too. But Mom had that certain way of telling that sound just like you. Guess I just like her letters too. Oh be the day when I can come home to you two. Gosh honey I’ve dreamed about a millions things to do and when we have a chance I’d sure like to so some of them. I love you so much my Darling. I love you sweetheart. I love you so much. I love you I love you Darlings. All my love honey, Lefty

15 March, Bruggen, Germany

Dearest Vi & Mary, Hows [sic] my daughter tonight. And you too honey. Sure hope you are in good spirits cause I have something to tell you that may not sound so good. But then it really isn’t so bad as all that. Got my dare up today and before it was all over got myself busted. It was all my own fault. No one had anything to do with it but myself. So now you can write to Pvt. Woodside again. I’ve been telling you perhaps you would be getting $5.00 taken off you one allotment. Well heres [sic] why. The decrease was something like $16 and I was only getting $14.21 So by taking 5 off I’ll still be getting enough to do me. Only I’m afraid Mary’s savings will be kind of slack. I think its [sic] best this way. I’ll know later anyway. Don’t get to [sic] mad. If you throw any dishes be sure its [sic] the old ones. We had some pop corn tonight and are my teeth ever a mess. Have to brush them before I go to bed. The corn was good and I need to brush them so everyone is happy. Gee honey you know I think of you so much. And the more I think of you the more I love you. I love you so much my Darling. And now money has come into our lives you know that’s the setting for a swell little cottage. You know one of those cozy affairs with a little fireplace and you Mary and me sitting in front. It may seem crazy but I’ve been dreaming up something like that. I can sometimes just reach over and almost touch you. But about that time someone has to either wake me or attract my attention and you’re gone. I love you so much Mommie. We have been talking about the furloughs we had and how we drove on went [sic] between. Sure was some wild driving. Sure wish we were doing that again. Bob has two eggs over to his house and I’m to go over at 9:30 and have an egg sandwich. Sure wish I knew where he was today. I’d go there tomorrow. Well honey hope you aren’t to [sic] disappointed about me getting busted. It will all come out in the wash. And even then won’t be bad. Oh yes I got 4 bracelets made today except putting the fasteners on them. I love you my Darling. I love you so much honey. Gee Darling am I looking forward to seeing you. I love you both my Darlings. All my love honey, Lefty

Dad got busted? This is a story I have not heard but whatever was done to get him busted must have been a story he could not tell about. He does start addressing his letters as a private though.

Dad was busted back to a Private

Dad was busted back to a Private

16 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, No mail today. I sure hope there will be tomorrow though cause I’m sure needing some morale building. And your letters sure seem to do the job. Gosh there just isn’t anything to write about either. Only the mail I haven’t answered and man I could write pages on that. I only have a couple bags left to empty now. Perhaps when things quiet down I’ll get things started again. It rained a bit here today. Not to [sic] much but I imagine if one had been out in it he would have gotten a little water soaked. But it isn’t so cold. One can stand the rain or cold one at a time. But both together sure makes it rough. Sounds like Kansas got the works. 8 inches of snow is sure a lot. I guess we had that much a couple months, but really didn’t notice it so much. You see the trucks we have just aren’t like the cars. That much snow is just a little bit to them. Although we did have a couple slides and once upset a trailer. Nothing was hurt though. Just a little extra work. Unloading and loading it up again. You know honey I sure wish Mary would get over the darn stomach sickness. Boy I know they all have it and it lasts so long but man it sure seems a long time to me. You know I don’t think I said anything about her birthday. Here she is 2 months old and I didn’t say anything. I didn’t forget it. If I remember I just didn’t write the eleventh.  I love you so much my Darling. Gee honey I’m anxious to see you. I love you I love you so much my Darlings. All my love Darlings, Lefty

George W. Bronson, Calvin E. Wheatly

George W. Bronson, Calvin E. Wheatly

17 March, Bruggen, Germany

My Darling Wife & Daughter, Well honey I am now officially a private. Don’t feel a damn bit different but a hell of a lot luckier.  Instead of taking 5.00 off your allotment I took $10 so now you’ll be getting only $20 in the Class E. You’ll get the full thirty this month but starting next pay off. Someday I’ll tell you the whole deal. Its [sic] kind of complicated and I couldn’t write about it. Oh yes the mail came today. Got three letters from you and one from Mom. They were Dec 6-7-9 Also got a couple Christmas Cards. Even if they were a long time overdue they were swell. You said you love me and I guess that’s all that counts.  Gee honey you know the only reason I didn’t tell you I loved you before we were married I was to [sic] bashful. I guess I loved you enough, but didn’t tell you about it. Thought you would think me crazier than I was. I guess like to tell you I love you now though darling. Because I do love you so much. I would just like to set here and write that all night. Just seems when I start I just remember how happy we were the short while we had together and how much fun we’ll have if and when we get together again. And then I just love you so much more. Gosh my Darling I just think sometimes I couldn’t possibly love you another bit. But I do. When the time comes there is lots of room. Oh! Shit honey I’m so damn lonesome for you I just don’t care whether its rain or snowing all I want is you. I saw a picture of Colorado street [Pasadena, California] in the Yank Magazine tonight and in it I could see the little jewelry store where we officially became engaged. Sure brings back old memories. That’s almost two years ago isn’t it. How time does fly. I haven’t seen Mom or Pop since then either. Sure seems a long time. Sure wish I were walking down that street to you tonight. Sure would solve a lot of problems. You know Darling to me you are the most beautiful person I know. And believe me if I haven’t told you I have for a long time. I wish I could send you the flowers too. I love you so much Darling. I hope Mary Lynn is ok. Your letters today were written before she was even born. Sure seemed funny. I am sure looking forward to getting home to you both. I love you Darling. I love you so much. Gee honey I love you I love you sweetheart. All my love Darlings, Lefty

This letter is one of the most heartbreaking ones I think I have read. With Dad being busted down to a Private, no mail, and being so homesick you can really feel the depression in his words. What are the chances he would get a hold of a magazine that has a picture in it of the jewelry store they got engaged in? I have to wonder what Dad did to get himself demoted but we will never know. He has been overseas for ten months now and there is no sign of him going home anytime soon, or will he?

© 2013 notsofancynancy

Robert “Bob” Winter, Calvin E. Wheatly, George W. Bronson, Marvin Cain, Murray Combs

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Posted by: notsofancynancy | July 26, 2013

The Death of (another) Friend

Once again I have been hit with the death of a friend. I don’t know how to handle this death and it has hit me hard.

She would kill me if she knew I used this picture, but it is one of many fun times

She would kill me if she knew I used this picture, but it is one of many fun times we shared

In 2002 I was working for a family owned business which did payroll for their four moving companies. I had neck surgery and was going to be out of work for at least three months during recovery and even longer when all was said and done. The company hired Janet to fill in for me which eventually turned into a permanent job for her when I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and could not return.

Janet had a big job on her hands and a short time to learn it. Doing payroll for five different companies is not an easy task and in the short time I had to train her I did my best to remember everything but left my phone number with Janet and assured her I would do whatever I could to help her get through the learning process. This would be what tied our friendship together and made us still friends eleven years later.

We spent a lot of time on the phone at first as I relayed how to get through the task she was confused on.  In the first few months after the surgery I could do nothing but lie on the bed so her calls were welcomed. Eventually the need lessened but our friendship didn’t. It only became stronger. She was caring and became better at the job than I ever was. She never forgot the color coding system I set up for each of the companies and always told me this was the one thing that helped her the most when dealing with that many different payrolls.  She always complimented me on how I was able to organize so much material and how much easier it made her job.

This last year I have not had a vehicle so our visits became less.  Just yesterday I thought I need to call her and get together because it has been way too long. But once again I am having problems with my vehicle. She lives 22 miles away from my house so we are not close. Lastly I don’t like to call her at work and by the time she was home I had forgotten. I hate that I did not follow through on that call.

Today I got an instant message on Facebook from one of the employees from the company asking me if I had heard she had passed away. I thought maybe they were talking about another employee when I realized there were no other Janet’s I knew of. I was shocked (and still am). I don’t know much more than it happened this morning and I was told she had an aneurism. I am stunned, I cannot believe she is gone and will no longer be calling me to do lunch or just call to talk.

This whole thing makes my heart hurt and my eyes leak. What happened? Had she not been feeling well? Did she go to sleep and just not wake up? I have so many questions but I am no longer in the loop and am not sure I will ever know. All I do know is that I lost one of my dearest friends and that really sucks.

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