WWII Letters

34th Bomb Squadron, 17th Group Lt. WWII Letter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:04:00 +0000

This letter was written by a Lt. who was with the 34th Bomb Squadron, 17th Group. That is the same squadron and group that the famous James Doolittle was with. The letter was written on July 19, 1944. From the letter…..

My Dearest One,

   Nothing much new and also it is quite late so as usual a short shorty to say hello and to let you know how much I love you.
   At present I am listening to Bob Hope guess I forgot to tell you that we now have a radio. It is an Italian job, we bought it from Bohlan. He is going home so we took it off his hands. Spent a very busy day. Can’t remember doing a thing but I guess I did manage to stay on my feet.
   Say I believe that a tan is developing, not sure as yet but the red seems to be changing color. At present I am quite a two tone job, imagine I will remain that way too because I don’t dare chance getting my rear sunburned (spend too much time on that thing) Hope you don’t get frightened when you see this two toned job advancing toward you in your boudoirs. Certainly hope that time isn’t far off.
   Well sweetheart I must say goodnight for now and a million kisses. Write often sweet I love so much to get your letters and I haven’t had any for three days. I love you darling with all my heart, body and soul.

Always your husband,

Sadly this Army Airman never made it back home to his wife. He was killed in action, and was buried in an American Cemetery in Florence, Italy.

76th Hospital Train WWII Letter and Photos

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:59:00 +0000

Written by 2nd Lt. 76th Hospital Train Unit, March 25, 1945. From the letter…..

Dearest,

   Although I shouldn’t call you dearest for I haven’t’ heard from you for two weeks. Even though you’re busy please take time out to write for unless we write we won’t know one another and I’m damn afraid of that. Dear I love you and want to come back to you, please always remember that.
   Haven’t yet seen one gal in all my travels who compares at all with you. Our chief nurse says that you’re one of the truly beautiful girls that she has seen in her life. I was very pleased and proud to hear this.
   Everybody knows about your mink coat and five new suits. Spend thrift that you are. But I can’t help but love you even tho I’d like to wring your neck.
   I visited Germany the other day. Also covered all of Luxembourg, all along the Moselle River. I saw evidence of the terrific struggle put up by the Wehrmach, German Army to you. The river bank was lined for miles with fox holes, zig zag trenches and gun emplacements. The debris of battle was all around. Went over one newly built bridge (built of nothing on nothing) and all the G.I.s came out to watch to see if we’d make it. Pillboxes dominated every hill top, barb wire was all around. The sky was full from horizon to horizon with planes. The German villages nestled down in the valley, long high buildings typical Rhine country architecture. Visited Trier, Germany the first hospital train to go there. The place was a wreck, a city larger than Worcester and hardly anyone home. Thousand of houses full of furniture and everything except what the people could carry with them.
   Found a roll of bills. Do you know how many marks I have? 1,000,000,000, one billion. But they’re no good. If they were I could buy out Henry Ford. We wanted some wine so we took 3 five gallon jugs and a hose and went over to the local pub, went down stairs and then through a hole in the wall just large enough to admit me. I dropped into a subterranean cellar. It was so damn dark and spooky in there that all I could think about was Dracula. Took our pick of the barrels and by applying suction, each one taking turns, to the hose, we drew out the wine. How I would have loved to have you there for the adventure of the thing. Everybody has on steel helmets and guns, the tanks are rumbling by, the town is in ruins and there we are down in the cellar siphoning wine. Also got three German belts with “Gott Mit Uns” on them, a beer stein, coffee grinder, copper antique lantern, German officer hats, and lots of other things. Saw 8,000 Germans just captured. All in one field. We were at the front! The anti aircraft guns were going off and the war was being fought. Have all kinds of souvenir bullets and the next time I go up, I’ll get Clif a Luger pistol. Had to be careful of mines and booby traps. What a thrill to be right in Germany right at the front.
   I’m sending home this box of souvenirs, hold a belt for me and anything you want to keep and give th rest to the kids. To show you the shortage of various things over here it seems whenever I smoke a cigar some Frenchman offers me a dollar for it. I feel like a millionaire smoking cigars that are worth a dollar even though I only pay 5 cents for them. There are very strict regulations over here to prevent one from selling such rationed goods and these regulations are very necessary for the soldiers would sell everything they got if they weren’t in affect. Inflation is a terrible thing and America should be glad that the O.P.A has done so much in curbing it. I’m enclosing some pictures from Life Magazine showing bridges and taxis. I’ve ridden in the taxis and seen the bridges. Please write more often. Wednesday I’ll be 32. I can’t believe it. I’d better get home and start that family and bank account in a hurry.

Love,

Some of the photos below show actual scenes mentioned in the letter above.

On the back of this photo he wrote, Trier Germany. These men only captured 2-3 hours ago, 8,000.

This sign warns of Mines and Booby Traps, "Watch your step, your first mistake will be your last"

This photo shows a trench zig zagging across a file next to a hedgerow, also mentioned in the letter above. On the back of the photo, it just says trench in Germany.

This photo show more trenches. On the back was written Moselles river defenses, Germany. An arrow on the photo points out a hole made by an artillery shell.

This photo shows the hospital train. On the back is written Texas Sgt.

WWII Letter Tokyo Harbor, USS Bristol Sep. 13th, 1945

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:58:00 +0000

This letter was written September 13, 1945, from Tokyo Harbor, less than 2 weeks after the formal surrender of Japan, by a sailor who was serving aboard the USS Bristol DD-857. Some excerpts from the letter…………

Dearest Mother and Dad,

Here we are in the Japanese home waters. There are a million and one U.S. Navy fighting ships and fleet auxiliaries here: many battleships (BB’s), quite a few large carriers (CV’s), lots of cruisers (CA’s + CL’s), destroyers (DD’s) and patrol craft (PC’s), escort carriers (CVE’s), oilers (AO’s), cargo vessels (AK’s), transports (AP’s), LST’s, LCI’s,LSM’s, mine sweepers (YMS’s), and all kinds of other specialized ships. This is an immense harbor-Frisco is a pee-wee compared to this one………I can see many acres of burned and demolished buildings, factories, houses, pagodas, radio stations, and other structures along the Yokohama and Tokyo waterfronts. Mass destruction by the B-29’s and the American fleet…….The Iowa, Indiana, Alabama, Missouri, Wilkes-Barre, Essex, South Dakota, North Carolina, Hawkins, Higbee, and Bristol are all new ships. The Japs’ ships are at the bottom of the ocean: the greatest underseas fleet in the world! Ha, Ha!………..

Sailor Describes Sinking of USS Princeton 1944 WWII Letter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:55:00 +0000

This letter was written by a sailor who was on the USS Princeton when it was sunk. This letter was written by him while he was on shore. From the letter written on the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1944.……..

   My Dearest Ruth,

   Well sugar, I arrived at last. At the present I am in a relocation camp (Elliott) which is near San Diego, it was one hell of a trip back. Those damned transports are awful. I expect to be leaving here within the next 3 or 4 days for home.
   Sweetheart I’ll never be able to find words to tell you how much I love you. You are all that I have to look forward to. I am hoping that you will spend your Christmas with me, but sweets I can’t ask you to leave your home unless you want to.
   I suppose you are wanting to know about the mighty P. Well honey, there are some mighty bloody thing that I won’t tell. She was hit with a 500 lb. armor piercing bomb which set it on fire. The fire set off 8 torpedoes which were in planes standing by to go after the Jap fleet. They did not see the Jap plane until he had dropped the bomb as he came out of the clouds directly overhead. I was sure that we were hit as soon as it exploded. The whole ship shook like a leaf. Our communications was knocked out so we couldn’t find out just what was happening. The only thing we could hear was the Public address system telling the engine rooms to leave them as they were full of smoke and the guys were suffocation. Eventually they did get word to us to go topside. It was hell as those damned fish kept exploding and rocking the ship. I left the ship by climbing down a chain that hung over the bow. The waves were awfully high but the current was swift and carried me away from the ship pretty fast she was sure a mess. Her whole topside was blowed all to hell and burning. I was in the water about 3 hours (10 AM to 1AM) I was picked up by the Destroyer USS Morrison . We went back then and fought the fire from the destroyer. As luck would have it we were not along side when the bomb magazine exploded or I wouldn’t be here today. That was the most awful thing I ever saw. It blew the ship half into. The cruiser Birmingham was along side. It was riddled from stem to stern with shrapnel. 300 of her crew was said to be killed. I hope to hell I never see anything like that again. The Destroyer took us to Vlithe ? In the Carolinas Islands. We were transferred to a transport and brought to Pearl Harbor. I am feeling good. I am still a little nervous but I think I’ll get over it in time to come. Only 98 enlisted men and 11 officers of the Princeton crew was killed which is pretty good.
   Well honey, I am hoping and praying that I will soon have you in my arms again.

All my love and kisses,

WWII Letter 919th Field Artillery Germany March 23, 1945

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:02:00 +0000

This letter was written on March 23, 1945, by a soldier who was with the 919th Field Artillery Battalion. He was in Germany at the time he wrote the letter. Some excerpts from the letter……..

Dearest Darling,
Tonight I am of course in Germany, and in a town, and drinking Germany beer which isn’t bad at all. This is about all I can tell you……..Maybe if you listen to the radio or read the paper about the Third Army, you can find out more. At any rate honey, I am feeling fine, although a little scared once in a while, but I guess I will get use to it. Hundreds of others are plenty scared here too, even more than I. One thing I have seen not long ago, and it might sound like a lie or some crazy story, but it is true. I have seen Germans walking back to our lines and surrendering all by them selves. Sometimes five or six, sometimes one or two. They would walk along the road, with a white flag and head to the nearest town where we had plenty more as prisoners.

Mother looking for Son Missing in Action WWII Home Front Letter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:02:00 +0000

This letter was written by a mother who’s son was missing in action. She was writing to a soldier in Fort Sam Hospital, trying desperately to find out about her son. From the letter…..

Dear Sir:

   I will introduce myself. I am the mother of the Clifford ?, Aviation Ordnance man Third Class U.S. Naval Reserve who was reported missing in action on July 20, 1943 on a night mission on Vella Lavalli (Lavella) Islands. I read a piece in Marvin Star where you were wounded on July 25. I was wondering if by any chance you would know anything about him. His pilot Winn and radio man Reynolds are also missing. This is an awful worry on me. He was only 18 years when reported missing. He was a Naval Gunner. His commanding officer wrote me a nice letter he was well liked by all his buddies.
   I am sorry you are in the hospital but hope you a speedy recovery. I have another son a radio man in Army Core in California. He is 21. Your home is not far from us. My husband was Marshal her for nearly 8 years.
   If you know anything concerning my son. Would like to hear from you if you are able to write. Hope you will soon be able to be home again. God bless you and help you.

Bataan Death March 1942 Photos

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 15:10:00 +0000

The Bataan Death March occurred in 1942, when the Japanese forced over 70,000 Filipino and American prisoners to march 60 miles from their point of capture to prison camps. During the march, they were subjected to inhumane treatment, which in many cases resulted in the death of the POW. The inhumane and torturous treatment included, but was not limited to, denial of food and water, stabbing, beating, shooting, being disemboweled, and throats cut, with some beheadings. Prisoners were routinely killed for not being able to walk, and they also faced the wrath of their captors for trying to help their fellow POWs. Many thousands of prisoners died before even reaching the prison camp, with many more dieing later.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)

American POWs with their hands tied behind their backs. Obviously suffering from hunger.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)

Filipino soldiers and police comprised over three-quarters of the Death Marchers. Here, a group of Filipinos carry fellow soldiers unable to walk.

This Photos shows Americans surrendering at Corregidor, Philippine Islands, 05-1942.

It is a National Archives Photo: Part of, Photographs of the Allies and Axis, compiled 1942 - 1945. NAIL Control Number: NWDNS-208-AA-80B-1
Select List Identifier: WWII #129

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)

A very large group of American POWs wait to begin the Bataan Death March.

Many of these men never reached the prison camp.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)
A large group of American prisoners prior to the beginning of the Bataan death march.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)

A long line of prisoners on the Bataan Death March.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)
A wounded American soldier being marched during the Bataan Death March.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)
Soldiers being searched by Japanese.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)
U.S. Servicemen on the death march, carry dead buddies to be buried at Camp O’Donnell.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)
This photo shows Japanese artillery firing on Bataan.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)
Japanese soldiers celebrate after the fall of Bataan.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)

This surrender leaflet was created by the Japanese, and was meant to encourage Americans to surrender. On the leaflet, it says that if they surrender they will be kindly treated, but after the Americans did surrender, some soldiers that had this leaflet in their possession, were executed for not surrendering sooner.

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (click on image for full size)

Another surrender leaflet, encouraging Americans and Filipinos to surrender to the Japanese.

The photo shows the remains of one of the more than 100 American Prisoners of War captured at Bataan and Corregidor and burned alive by the Japanese at a Prisoner of War camp, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. Medical personnel were attempting to identify them.

National Archive Photo: From, Signal Corps Photographs of American Military Activity, compiled 1754 - 1954. NAIL Control Number: NWDNS-111-SC-212111

This Library of Congress Photo shows Filpino injured in the fighting on Bataan, Jan. 28, 1942.

Photo Details

This Library of Congress Photo Shows, General Douglas MacArthur, congratulating Captain Villamor of the Philippine Air Force. Captain Villamor performed heroic service in the Battle of Bataan.

Photo Details

Major General Jonathan Wainwright (left) is shown with General Douglas MacArthur, in this Library of Congress Photo. Wainwright took over command when MacArthur was ordered to Australia.

Photo Details

Lieutenant Mary Lohr, a Army nurse, of Greenburg, Pennsylvania (left), was awarded the Royal Blue Ribbon, for gallant service at Bataan. With her is Lieutenant Robert L. Laub of Richland, Missouri, who received the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism as torpedo bomber pilot in the Battle of Midway. Library of Congress Photo. Photo Details

This Buy War Bonds Poster, says "Remember me? I was at Bataan"

It is at the National Archives, as part of the Series: World War II Posters, compiled 1942 - 1945

NAIL Control Number: NWDNS-44-PA-1626

Making good on his promise to return, General Douglas MacArthur wades ashore during initial landings at Leyte. National Archives Photo: Part of; Series: Signal Corps Photographs of American Military Activity, compiled 1754 - 1954. NAIL Control Number: NWDNS-111-SC-407101

This National Archives Photo shows Douglas MacArthur and Lieutenant General Jonathan Wainwright greeting each other August 31, 1945 in Japan. It was their first meeting since parting on Corregidor more that three years before.

In this photo, an Army Chaplain, who was taken prisoner at Bataan, in April, 1942, blesses the flag made from supply parachutes by Allied POWs, at Maibara Prisoner of War Camp, Japan. The photo was taken in 1945.

Photo: Australian War Memorial. details

Ever hear of the Angels of Bataan?

WWII Letter Morfolden Germany May 1945

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:31:00 +0000

Written by a soldier who was in Morfolden ? Germany, during WW2, in May 1945. He was with the 33rd Armored Regiment, and was with the 3rd Spearhead Division. From the letter…….Honey are they saying anything in the states about the men from over here getting out or anything of that sort? I sure hope I don’t have to go to the Pacific. I would just as well stay over here instead of going over there. But I would love to go to the states. Well Dear there isn’t much I can say. I am not sure if we can write of some of the places we have been. We were able to visit Nordhausen when they found that camp. I know the people in the states know about it as you wrote and told me about it. That is where General Rose got killed at. Honey that is one place I never will forget. You can’t tell people about it as they wouldn’t believe it. I guess you have saw some of the pictures that they took didn’t you? Well nearly all camps over here just like that was the same. The was we treat the prisoners in the states is really too good. I wondered a lot of times since I have been over here if they leave them go around just like they did at Knox……...Well if Bob is in the 1st maybe sometime soon we may meet. Well they couldn’t shell around him any more than they did me. I know we had a plenty. I don’t know about the nervous wreck but if I have to go any where else I sure will be……. I got my first bath for almost 4 weeks……..Closing with all the love, kisses and hugs I can send to the best wife, girl friend and sweet heart I ever want to know........

919th Field Artillery WWII Letter From France Feb. 11, 1945

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 15:41:00 +0000

This letter was written by a soldier in France, during WWII, February 11, 1945. He was serving with the 919th Field Artillery Battalion. From the letter…..

Sweetheart,

   Next Wednesday is the first day of Lent. Maybe this doesn’t’ mean much to you, in fact in the army it really doesn’t effect us. Wednesday is also Ash Wednesday, I am sure you have heard of that day. All this means that Eater will be here soon. Well enough for that talk, so now I will tell you what letters of yours I have received today.
   I received three letters dated as follows, Jan 20, 21, and 24th from you. Also received a letter from your Mother dated Jan 21st.
   I wish I could see a movie once in a while myself. I haven’t seen any in over a month. All it seems we do is work and sit in our room and write letters or play cards.
   I do however spend much time with the people in back, playing cards and trying to talk. When I say trying to talk, I mean because of our different languages it is difficult for us to try to speak and understand each other. Although I do fairly well.
   Last night I played cards again with the fellow, or I should say father of the two little children.
    And today believe it or not I had a real home cooked meal. Yes sir, a good meal. It consisted of sauerkraut, veal, fried potatoes, and the drink was not coffee, but cider. Yes, instead of eating dinner over at the Mess or our own kitchen I ate with these people. This was my second time that I was invited to eat with them.
   In your letter of Jan 21st you mentioned me learning you how to maybe cook dehydrated foods if possible. Well, Honey, don’t worry. I love you so much that I’m willing to teach you anything I know.
   I hope all your dreams come true, and if it is possible I will make them come true. I am sure we will be happy, and I know you will be the best wife any man could ask for, and I’ll try my best to be a good husband.
   We may have times, that will be tough and things wouldn’t be easy, but together we can’t fail in anything we do.
   And it will be a grand reunion, when my brother rand I get home again. I know that when my Mother and Dad, brother rand his wife, and you and I all meet it will be a day we all will never forget.
   Just keep praying for me, and I hope and am sure your prayers will be answered. And soon we will be untied together.

All my love,

British RAF WWII Letter From India 1944

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:08:00 +0000

This letter was written by a British Soldier, who was with the Royal Air Force, in India, August 16, 1944. From the letter…..

Dear Mum,
   Well here I am again writing to you. I have already written one letter to you earlier this evening, but things seem a bit quite for the time being so I will try and fill this letter up with something of a sort. If the mosquitoes will give me a chance, they seem to be very busy tonight.
   Before starting this letter I have been reading the local rags. I have had four just recently. I’ve had them all for May now. They seem to be carrying on in the same old way. One thing about having them, is that I read much more of them than what I did at home. I always look forward to them so let them all come.
   I had an airgraph from Miss Harris yesterday telling me about the present she also mentioned about Bubbles being dead, I guess the nights are much more peaceful now. I’m sorry to hear that the has gone, he was reaching a ripe old age, about 125 or so if I remember right. Talking of dogs, How’s dinkie getting on these days? Still got her I suppose, and how’s the cat family still as many as ever? By the way does Freddie still keep his rabbit or is he too busy with parades etc: or maybe with Babs. Must be something in ti when he don’t go with his pals. Maybe he’s taking an interest in fishing?
   Glad to hear that Ag is getting on okay with her American Boy Friend and that you all like him, remember me to him when he next comes round.
   So the old boat is still going strong, oh boy am I looking forward to the snaps, I hope they turn out alright. Tell Bags she could have done no better for me than bringing her camera and taking the snaps. I am on the lookout for them already. As anything come of the other photo effort I told you about? If they haven’t come round about it yet and if they do, if ever, you might let them know my address at this place, as I only put RAF India, because I didn’t’ know where I might be, of course if they have already been round it doesn’t matter they w3ill reach me sometime.
   How did Ron get on his medical? I hope he passed okay, because I do know that he does want to join the RAF. If only for a good job in civil aviation after the war. If I had been okay for the last course I was on it would have been a good job for after the war. Since I’ve been back, I’ve heard that one of the lads passed the course okay and is now a Sgt. Nice work if you can get it.
   The camp cinema is still going strong. I’ve been going to most of the shows since I’ve been back. So far I haven’t’ seen any of the pictures before. I should have liked to have seen tonight's picture. “Seven days leave” have you seen it? Just think of it 2 years ago I was having seven days leave. I haven’t had any leave since I have been out here yet. The food on the camp has improved a lot whilst I was away, which is a good job after being where we could buy what we wanted. The weather here is very nice. It’s a bit warm during the day, but at night it gets quite cool, tonight I put on a jersey as it was cold sitting here writing. Today we had a few showers, the monsoons are not over by any means yet. During the last fortnight in July it rained practically every day.
   If Stan is still on leave and you see him remember me to him. Tell him to get all the leave he can. It’s easier to get it at home than out here. One of the lads was inquiring about railway fare to go and meet his brother-in-law. It would cost him about 5 to get to the place he would be staying at. Well I guess I’ve just about filled the letter up, so Cheerio for now.

Lots of love,

Camp Blanding Florida WWII Letter, July 26, 1944

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:23:00 +0000

This letter was written by a soldier at Camp Blanding Florida, July 26, 1944. At the time, he was with Company C, 214th Battalion. From the letter…..

Well how are you all getting along? I hope all right. I sure was glad to hear from you all. I am going to try to be a good soldier. I bet you are glad you are out of school. I know I was. I was sorry I could not come out and see you all when I was up there. I sure will be glad when I can get out of this camp for a day or two. I sure would like to see Mother and all the rest. It is hot down here, we have a big lake and we go in swimming every Sunday and it is a nice lake.
It will be 10 more long weeks before I will get a furlough then. I.V. is out in the west somewhere we have not heard from him since he left. He said he was going to9 fight the Japs somewhere. I told him I hope to meet him in Japan. The officers in our outfit think we might go to the West Coast. Well I will write Mother now.

Love,

P.S. Tell your mother I will write her later.

British Royal Air Force WWII Letter Mobile Operatons Filter Room 1945

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:11:00 +0000

This letter was written by a fellow in the R.A.F. (Royal Air Force). At the time he was with No. 1 Mobile Operations Filter Room, South East Asia Air Forces, June 20, 1945 (India). From the letter…..

Dearest Mother,
   It is with the greatest pleasure that I write this airmail hoping sincerely that it will find you in the very best of health. Many thanks for the two which you sent, one written on the 6th and one post March 9th. I was very sorry to hear about Agnes, I would rather you have told me before, I had an Idea something was wrong. I hope this letter will find her in much better hearth. Tell her not to worry about writing to me. Tell her to get herself well first. She seems to be having a rough time. I expect when Harry comes, that helps to cheer her up. Remember me to Harry when he comes up. I guess they don’t quite know they stand these days does he think he will be going home soon? So you said in your letter things may turn out for the best. Give Ag my love, and tell her to hurry up and get well again. By the way will you ask her what as happened to Yvonne, as I haven’t heard from her in a long time, maybe she as got another boy, maybe she can let me know how things stands, not that I’m worried about it.
   I’m writing this letter to you in the club which I mentioned in the other letter I wrote, it is the first time I’ve sat down to a table to write a letter. Nearly forgot how to do it, the radio is on, the programme at the moment is Forces Favorites, I’ve just finished a nice cup of holicks, everything in the garden is lovely, it has just finished raining. We have been getting a few showers the last two days.
    I had a gave of football today, first time I’ve played for along time. The side I was on managed to win one mil. It wasn’t a very good game as a lot of the chaps couldn’t play very well, but it was good fun while it lasted. Well the hill party I mentioned in the other letter, I don’t think we shall be going on it. It seems that other chaps are more entitled to it than me, so I have to wait my turn. That’s how it goes out here.
   Sorry to hear that some of your pen-friends haven’t been writing. I too haven’t heard from any of them, Good Pals.
   I was hoping to get some more money but it hasn’t come through yet. Still I can manage, as I have a bit saved up, and I think the other money will come through by the time I’ve spent my reserves, as there isn’t much to spend it on, at this place. But don’t worry about it I shall get by okay. I would rather you have the money than spend it out here.
   Have you received the parcel I sent yet? Bob’s mother received the only Bob sent at the beginning of the month, so you should have got your by now at least I hope you have. Well I’m again getting at the end of the letter, I hope that you are all keeping in the very best of health, as it leaves Bob and I the same. Bob send his love and best wishes to you all. Take care of yourself and keep smiling. Bob and I still keep smiling and cheerful under the trying conditions. Cheerio for now, lots of Love, and

Some Gave All, Letters Written by Members of the Military who Were Killed in Action During WWII

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:56:00 +0000

"Some Gave All"

This group of letters were all written by members of the military who gave their life while serving their country. There is a famous quote, "All gave some; some gave all". The writers of the letters on this page "Gave all". I always feel a bit of reverence when handling letters written by those who served in WWII, but when I know the writer gave their life, reading them can be somewhat emotional. Then you start to wonder how their families dealt with their loss, and how many lives changed because of their deaths.

34th Bomb Squadron 17th Group KIA July 1, 1944
34th Bomb Squadron 17th Group KIA July 9, 1944
34th Bomb Squadron 17th Group KIA July 17, 1944
52nd Bomb Squadron, Killed in Training, April, 1943
British Sailor, HMS Dido Oct. 27, 1943
Marine Bomber KIA March 29, 1944

34th Bomb Squadron, 17th Group WWII Letter, Lt. Killed in Action 1944

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:53:00 +0000

This letter was written by a Lieutenant, who was with the 34th Bomb Squadron, 17th Group. He never came home. He is buried in an American Cemetery, in Italy. He is writing to his wife. From the letter…..

My Dearest One,

   Hope you haven’t given up hope of ever hearing from me. Today would have been six days without writing. I really couldn’t’ help it sweet. I was out with Hill trying to see a bit of the country over here (hitch hiking). Will tell you all about it tomorrow, really had quite a time but missed my ?? Very much.
   I will try to answer all of your questions. The first question you asked if I would be home by July, well I doubt that in fact I’m sure that I won’t because it is already July. Not even sure about September. (2) For the second or third time dear, not the fifth Army, I’m in the Air Force. (3) No I haven’t been in the invasion. (4) Yes we fly after 60 missions. (5) the 4th answers this one (6) H. (7) Yes darling I remember you and I mean really, just as though we had only been apart for a day or two, really sweet I can’t even forget you for a minute. (8) No sweet I haven’t changed even a little, the war couldn’t have much effect on me, at least I haven’t notice any difference. (9) Yes sweet, with all my heart I love you. (10) Do I? and I also might add that I am being very very true to you just as I told you I would be. (11) Yes sweet I do say my prayers every night, without fail.
   Had quite a batch of mail waiting for me today when I came back, 11 from you and five others. Not to bad for twelve days.
   Well sweet must close for now, will write often from now on, so don’t forget to love me.
   I love you sweet with all my heart and sold. Goodnight sweetheart and a million kisses.

Always your husband,

H.M.S. Valkyire Sailor's WWII Letter Royal Navy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:04:00 +0000

This letter was written by a sailor in the British Royal Navy. When he wrote the letter, his return address was H.M.S. Valkyire. The letter is dated August 8, 1944. From the letter……

Dear Folks,
   You will have my other letter now and probably a wire which I intend to send off tonight. They explain each other except that at the moment there is over 3 hours delay on the telephone. I’ll try again towards the weekend.
   I hardly remember Aunt Ellen as I only saw her once after they went to Gateshead-- and I don’t suppose you saw here much more?
   I see Alan has gone over to chickens from rabbits and I must say he is wise- they are more profitable and more interesting I should say. He certainly does get things done. I hope he doesn’t get rid of the pup- I saw some Spiller’s biscuit’s the other day but the shop was closes. We get “shopping leave” for an hour or two afternoons next week or so. I’ll see about some Spratts. I’ve heard complaints about “no films” so I’m afraid a 620 is very doubtful.
   I had letters from Dora as well at Speckington, she’d addressed it to Yeovilton on 4/4/44 (April 4) and I received it on 4/8/44 (August 4)!! When they’d readdressed it at Chatham, they made an error and put down “HMS Yeovilton” so I don’t know where it had been! I’ll have to reply to them tonight.
   I’m duty watch tonight which merely means staying on board sitting here near an open window and watching the holiday makers stroll along the prom. I’ll be able to make up a bit of sleep, this 0530 business every morning is a bit tiring.
                                                 To be continued after supper.
   Supper was a bit of nondescript stewed meat and potatoes with a slice of bread and butter, so that didn’t take long. I’ve now adjourned to the Rec. Room which would surely be the dining room when this was a boarding house. It has a ice big bay window, a few tables and easy chairs and a wireless set.
   It rained this morning but got out beautifully again after dinner and now it is perfect holiday weather again. A strange thing about tea time was to see a huge stretch of thick fog maybe 200 feet in depth, roll right up to the island and completely obscured two of the headlands only a mile away, then it retreat4ed again and now looks more like a cloud on the horizon. I’m told its quite common and sometimes comes right over the island like a pea-souper! If I’d been here for a holiday I’d have been as brown as a berry now, but the sea is much too cold for a Mediterranean sailor! There was a nice indoor bath I’m told but of course it would be closed for a boiler-clean for a month!
   Lat night five of us walked along the prom. As far as we could and back again to a pub where we met three girls on holiday, from Lancashire of course. One of the girls and I went off to the Palais De Danse?? but we stayed so late I hadn’t time to see her home! That was midnight and I was up again at 5:30 this morning! Two of lads went to sleep in class this morning! But the schooled is a very decent chap and some mornings he daren’t sit down himself in case he goes to sleep. He told us that one day so many of his class went to sleep when he’d been talking for a while that he decided to change things round and make them read from his notes. He started off at the back of the class and after ten minutes passed the book on to the next chap. Then he went to sleep when the third chap took over and the poor fellow had to come and give him a shake when he got to the end of the book. As far as the course is concerned I think I shall probably be first in this part as well.
   And that is about all my crack just now--
   I’m duty on Saturday again but I don’t intend to stay on board if I can help it. On Friday night I look afte this Rec. Space for the Divisional Officer who is going sailing for four days, so I think he will probably give me a chit to go ashore on Saturday instead.
   On Thursday evening I am going up to meet Hemmings’ wife. He got married after he left “Dido” but of course I knew all about her before that. I told you he is an instructor here and she has been here for some months but he is afraid his Far Eastern draft is on the way and she’ll have to go home and start work again.
   We have to do a bit of rifle drill the next morning or two and the 20 of us in my class will be the Captain’s Guard at Sunday Divisions. I shall be all right there as I did a course in rifle drill at Portsmouth. The ship’s company (that is the regular sailors here, not the men on course) usually have the Guard but they are starting their leave this week and on Sunday one half will be going and the others coming back. The Command decided we “Rillicks” were the only people who ought to be able to take it on without much previous drill! Somebody’s bound to drop his rifle or something, but still we shall get away much earlier than the others and so have more time to either sleep, write letters or just get ready to go ashore. Crowds of people come along the Prom. To watch the Sunday morning turn out but I hope there aren’t any amateur photographers about.
   We had an issue of chocolate today but Bentley who got them put them in his room at ??? And somebody swiped the lot before we finished this afternoon. The Div. officer has given us permission to kill him first and report him afterwards, if we should happen to catch the culprit!! As if we wouldn’t anyway.
   The news has been pretty good for a few days now and I don’t think the Germans will last much longer, and the Yanks are doing well in a quiet sort of way as well, here’s hoping. And now to send doff that wire I hope you did keep some money in the house but if you didn’t we can go into that later.

Love to all,

British Sailor Royal Navy WWII Letter Air Station Yeovilton June 25, 1944

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:12:00 +0000

This letter was written by a sailor, in the British Royal Navy. At the time he wrote the letter, June 25, 1944, he was at Speckington Mess, R.N. Air Station, Yeovilton. His handwriting is a little hard to read, so if I have a doubt on a word, I will put a question mark. From the letter…..

Dear folks,
   You see I have made the change and it is certainly for the better! Four of us came together leaving Chatham in the morning, lunch in London, and arriving here just after tea. Transport met us at the station and brought us up here where Murphy met me at the gate so I was soon settled in. I’ve met Taylor too and one or two other semi-familiar faces.
   As you se we are attached to a Fleet Air Arm place but are a mile away from them in a few Nisson? Huts set in an orchard next door to a farm. Apple trees are all around usk, wild roses growing in the hedges, and all the country round about is soft farm land, whilst the villages are all quaint thatched roof places. But I suppose Dad will know the type. The nearest village is 2 miles and the next small market town 4 miles, so I hired? A bike this morning, 10/6 for a week and we had a run around within the 8 mile radius. This afternoon I slept comfortably in my bed, it is just like Steve’s billet at Purbright?.
   Tim has a date tonight so I’ve arranged to meet him at ?? later on where we can sample the local cider. Beer is pretty scarce I’m told.
   Tomorrow we start our course and for this purpose we go to a manor? a couple of fields away. It’s a nice non-service atmosphere and if the course goes as well as I expect, I’m sure I’m going to like it here.
‘   Please send me these as soon as you can, a writing pad, a face-cloth, one of my cigarette cases, my last diary and whilst I’m here you might send me a bit of pie or something now and again but not much at a time, about half what you sent last time. This is my last sheet of paper so cheerio for now.

Love,

H.M.S. Dido British Sailor's WWII Letter 1942

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:38:00 +0000

This letter was written by a British Sailor, who was serving aboard the H.M.S. (Her Majesties Ship) Dido, November 8, 1942. The letter has a censor’s stamp on it. From the letter….

Dear Folks,
   Only another three weeks now have we to put up with this wobbly writing. To go ashore in blues I have had an old jumper split up the seam inside the right sleeve so that I can get it on over the P. of P! So you can see apart from stopping my swimming it has had little effect on my normal activities.
   Since I wrote you last week we have returned to what I shall call our “July base” and have received mail among which I got Dad’s 3rd Sept. letter, Mum’s cards of 4/10 and 11/10 and Alan’s 11/10 card. Now and again I forget to acknowledge Stanley news but they arrive with every sea-mail. In one, I read this week I saw Bert Hook’s picture-I’m surprised he didn’t come to see me; I should’ve if I’d known which ship he was in.
   You have certainly appreciated my accounts of the tours better than I had expected, but my style must suffer greatly alongside the author you mention, although I know I could do much better if we could write whilst it is fresh in our minds giving place name, etc. There are on or two copies of the book you mention on board but I haven’t’ got round to reading it yet.
   The only thing being read and discussed on boards today is the latest invasion, that on the coast of North Africa- and the continued advance of the 8th Army in Egypt. We have already decided that the Navy will make a hash of the evacuation they will attempt- and from there some have worked out the end of Italy and the end of the war!! By the time this reaches you at any rate I hope you can be thinking as optimistically.
   It’s a coincidence you should mention not having any spice loaf this year, Alan, we each had a piece for tea today. It’s the first for months. Of course it’s sawdust compared to “home cake” but with a bit of butter on it is edible. I don’t know where I shall spend Xmas this year but we should have plenty even though it is not first class. I hope you manage to get just a bit more than you want! I’m very much afraid I shan’t be making it this time but we shall surely have a celebration some time in 1943.
   I knew by sight that fellow King you mention, Mother, but that was all. Of course if I’d met him here we should know each other!! I’m not sure but I think I once met him at Fareham
   I‘ve been ashore once this week. We had leave til 11:30 AM so I nearly went down to see Mitch but it would have been a case of hitch-hiking which meant a doubt about getting back in the morning, and as there had been a special notice about being adrift I didn‘t risk it. We stayed the night at a S.A. Hostel, a nice comfortable little bed with clean sheets yet the next morning I awoke at 6 o’clock as usual and couldn’t go to sleep again! A cup of tea in bed, a leisurely breakfast and a walk along the sea front before coming off mad it a very nice morning. I left some snaps ashore so next week I shall be sending you one of myself in hot-weather rig.
   It is hot still during the day, but in the evening it is cool enough to wear a white suit or blues. By the way I know now where flies go in the winter time, they are partly responsible for this bad writing!
   Not only is it poor but I start after supper to just make it by “pipe-down’! I have written one or tow letters besides these I send to you but very few and everybody else will have to wait for a right handed one now.

Good Night,
Love,

WWII Letters From Okinawa

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:01:00 +0000

807th Engineer Aviation Battalion August 17, 1945
807th Aviation Engineer Okinawa August 24, 1945

WWII Letter from Okinawa August 1945 807th EAB

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:52:00 +0000

This letter was written by a soldier who was in Okinawa, August 17, 1945. The letter is written on Red Cross letterhead. He was in the 807th Engineer Aviation Battalion. From the letter.....

Hi Honey,
   Just finished a letter to Mother and now can write to my sweetheart.
   I am kinds glad you didn’t get the treasurer job again this year that the reunion. You have enough work to do. Yes, I certainly would have enjoyed being there. Maybe nest year.
   Tell the little ones hello. Also the rest of our family. Of course my dear I wouldn’t care if you wrote with pencil. You could write with a hair pin like Blondie did but be sure if you do that you press hard. I’m glad everyone thought the letter was interesting. I will be able to tell you lots of interesting things sometime. When the wind is howling around the corner of the house and we are setting before our own fireplace. Gee won’t that be nice.
   Well Dear, have some work to do, so for this time. I love you and miss you terribly.

Love to all,

Photo of a Brewster XA-32 mock-up

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:04:00 +0000

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (U.S. Air Force photo)
Click on Photo to see Full Sized Image
This photo is of a Brewster XA-32 mock-up, taken May 9, 1942.

Photo of "Yankee Doodle", B-17

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:03:00 +0000

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (U.S. Air Force photo)
Click on Photo to see Full Sized Image
Photo of "Yankee Doodle", B-17

Photo of German BF 109E

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:02:00 +0000

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (U.S. Air Force photo)
Click on Photo to see Full Sized Image

This German BF 109E (designated AE 479 by the Royal Air Force) was the first enemy aircraft to arrive at Wright Field, Ohio. Note the British roundels on the lower wing.

Photo of Bell P-39s, in 1943 at Wideawake Field

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:00:00 +0000

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (U.S. Air Force photo)
Click on Photo to see Full Sized Image
Bell P-39s, in 1943 at Wideawake Field, Ascension Island, between Brazil and Africa.

Photo From B-29 Over Japan, November 1944

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:21:00 +0000

National Museum of the US Air Force Photo (U.S. Air Force photo)
Click on Photo to see Full Sized Image

This photo, taken in November 24, 1944, shows a view of Mt. Fuji, Japan, through nose of a B-29. The main target was the Musashino aircraft plant.

Camp Maxey Texas November 11, 1944 WWII Letter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:27:00 +0000

This letter was written by a soldier in training at Camp Maxey, Texas, November 11, 1944. He was being trained in Anti Aircraft Artillery. In the letter was an Anti Aircraft shoulder patch, with AA on it. From the letter……

My Only Darling,
   Here he is again that old husband of yours and loving you as always darling.
   Lt. Martin has gone with the rest of the Lts. Perhaps good riddance, who knows. He gave me quite a loine before he went. Am tired of this mix-up and will be glad when it is all over.
   Go before a board tomorrow which is a big farce and then we break up Wed. and scatter to the four winds. We will go though 6 weeks of real tough grinding training and then we will be replacements for overseas. Does not sound very interesting after all we have been though. They broke a Com. Sgt. In another Gp. Here after two weeks so I am expecting it soon. I fear I will make a very poor pvt. I shall do as little as I can and still get along. Feel half sick over it.
   I wish I would get a letter from you darling. I know they are on the way and they sure will look good. There is nothing I would like right now more than a letter from you sweetheart. Rather have you though.
   Been a really warm day here darling and it seems funny after being back in Suffolk. It gets quite cold at night here though and I had two blankets over me last night.
   Have a little package of field rations I am going to send as I can have the mail clerk send it. The P.O. is some distance from here. It is the most spread out thing I have ever seen. There must be a heck of a lot of men here and they are arriving by the hundreds from A.A. The Col. Gave us a talk and said they were breaking it all up so you see I am not any worse off than loads of others. It may turn out OK in the end you can never tell.
   Have not said a thing about the election. Sure was a bad one and I am glad that you got to vote for the right man. Your conscience can be clear anyway. Wish I had done as much. Have never voted in my life. Was quite a surprise to hear that you got to vote.
   Sweetheart I must take my shower and go to bed. I will lay there and dream about you my sweetheart. I just lay and miss you till I drop off to sleep. Good night and God bless you, my darling.

Love and Kisses,