2
10
97
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/e258c50537858e9fa18cd4b1cac33899.jpg
bc5d7f35bfe1fc4cb00de4deae499f45
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/5f31d5206c89a642ea3a689f38a6a919.jpg
9316d5ef5cb49b8b621050359c9c8ba3
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/39c209399725862b336fab07585b894c.jpg
65cdcdba8bfec5456fae82cbcc478f70
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/5848175ee0ba8c769e5bfb46563264a0.jpg
4b0d1b97ea6b415f46c1589e87996560
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/846080813929e35c835c7a19b4e12861.jpg
45498c5a2472735bdbd5aa531fedfa65
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
November 8, 1944
Dear Geraldine,
Well, I'm still in the doggone hospital and don't know when I'll get out. It seems there is a record of your case which has to pass two different boards before you are released, at least that's the way I understand it. Still I'm enjoying the rest, so I'm not kickin'.
Boy, you women certainly amaze me. You see, I've received two letters from you to-day, the one with six snaps of you included. Now they were all sufficient to knock the eye out of any GI Joe and yet you term them "these awful pictures." A collosal piece of prevarication if I ever heard one. I guess I know how to pick em even six years ago. At least I think so in your case and am not alone in the opinion either. I wish I had some as good to send you but as far as my pictures go I never apologize because after all a camera can only record what the lens sees. Get me!
Well, I'm going to try to answer your letters point for point although it's rather difficult. You ask a question and by the time I get your letter and you get my reply about three months pass.
To start, don't ever worry about writing too much as you could never do that. Letters mean morale over here. You should see the way the mailman is mobbed and the look on a Joe's face when he gets a bundle of letters after waiting six, eight or more weeks.
By the way, your letters were from Sept. 3 and Oct. 2. Hope you enjoyed your holidays.
I'm a PFC alright however it's nothing new. I've held that same rank since last March. I could add a few words about that line but that's a long story so I won't go into it here. You certainly aren't going to get much news out of this epistle. I hope I'll be more 'newsy' next time.
I can't think of anything you could send me. My buddy in the next bed just suggested that you send a lock of your hair. Not a bad idea if it's not too sentimental for us. I hardly know what to say but maybe you will when you finish reading this.
Say, never apologize about remembering old times. We Joes always talk over the good times we've had and what we'll do when we get home again. What else is there to talk about?
Now I'm going to refer to your letter of Sept 12 which is so old you've probably forgotten what it was about. If so just skip over the next two pages. It seems you had received my letter in which I had spoken of weiner roasts, dancing out on the lake shore etc. and if I remember correctly, I said that it was too bad you didn't live closer to Buffalo at that time – and it was. You go on to say that if I don't visit you after the war you'll be disappointed and that I probably have a few young ladies waiting in Buffalo for me and therefore would not have time to see you. Well, you lady, I'm free, white and twenty-three with no entangling alliances. When I get back I start from scratch. You see, I figure a guy has no right to ask a girl to wait for him when he's in the army, unless he's engaged or some extraordinary circumstances. Now this may seem irrelevant – maybe it is but I'm having a hard time writing this so bear with me please.
Now then, the reason why I bring up the following paragraphs is because of your conclusion in your letter of Sept. 13. I know you've forgotten what it was and maybe didn't mean anything by it anyway. To refresh your memory, you mentioned six years, remember – that's when I was your beau. Here's the point I've been trying to bring out and I leave it up to you. I'm the same now as then myself (i.e. consider you the nicest girl I've ever known) and I'd like to carry on where I left off yet I know I don't have the right to after the dumb way I acted.
That's why I never express myself other than impersonally in these letters (no love, no nothin). I'd like to but don't know what you'd think. Well, Jerry, there's the whole thing in a nut shell. Remember, if this doesn't interest you just ignore it in your letter. Just mention receiving my epistle of Nov. 8 and let it go.
At any rate, regardless of your answer, I'll continue writing as often as I can and will make it a point to pay you a visit when I get back even if you're married. Give the old man the once over, you know. If you're free, I warn you to prepare yourself for a long, long talk.
Well, Geraldine, I guess that ends my thoughts for to-day. I hope you are well. Don't work too hard and until I know your answer and I'm not too optimistic, I'll sign off merely,
As ever,
Johnny
P.S. If I ever get out of here & get payed I've like to send you something for Xmas. I hope you won't mind. Note new address if you didn't get it from my other letter. Thank you!
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
134
Location
The location of the interview
Llandaff
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-11-08
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny writes about his relationship with Geraldine, and implies that they were once in a closer relationship. He admits that he has no right to ask, but says that he wants to return to romance.
Title
A name given to the resource
November 8, 1944
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/7f9fdf561f8a743d8fd6207e13b4d51f.jpg
ab1d3f9c3bb5319dc7f7559217cc3b7e
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/39f9e0ed07d7e100380320ff0c5ec1e5.jpg
4ff9ce843e69952e87a388758d98c310
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/c8a63f0f1ae1bdae0cadac62a7a3d438.jpg
1100efa38d610c7c1f75fdad4f897344
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/06f337e26e78c62a26730157b9290d6f.jpg
429a52bf432a66890f3c6b85c6c4eae8
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/b88a0619edc80da8ec720491d6b01c1d.jpg
eac13a6a0f096203fbab60f62aaeff6b
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
November 10, 1944
Dear Geraldine,
Well toots this probably won't be much of a letter but I'm in the mood news or no news. I've just finished a letter to a friend of my mothers whose boy, a pal of mine, is over here too. She hasn't been hearing from him much so I thought a letter from old Wall might help a little. We look somewhat alike except that he's an inch or so taller plus a few pounds heavier. I, by the way, have lost quite a little weight. The major told me this morning that I could stand ten pounds easily. I replied that feeling well was more important than being robust. I could stand some pounds though, I know.
Interesting letter don't you think, but I warned you that I had no news. I forgot to mention that I was released from the hospital two days ago in the late afternoon. Aside from being low on stamina I'm in pretty good shape.
I took a walk into town last night with one of the sergeants and nearly 'pooped' myself going up these doggone hills. I didn't realize my legs were so weak. To make a long story short, we spent an enjoyable two hours up in Mabel's room. That by the way is the name of the picture we saw. I didn't capitalize it as you notice. Poor joke, I guess.
Coming back, we bought a train ticket for two pence to save walking. It was a four minute ride but well worth the price to escape the chill winds that blow down from these hills.
I wish I could take you for a walk up one of these hills. You get a wonderful view from the top and the hike up is fun too.
Pardon me if I digress for a minute but every time I look at the snap of you leaning against a log, you look prettier. Someone is going to be mighty lucky some day and I don't mean maybe & don't tell me I'm nuts.
One of the fellows on the train has a camera so I may be able to send you an up-to-date snap sometime soon. We have a place where we can develop pictures so I'm hoping to get in a little darkroom work. The first developing I ever did was in Ft. Wayne and it made a big hit with me although my results weren't exactly professional.
This morning, the hills were white with frost. It remained very cool all day with a thin ice film over any stray puddles of water. We'll soon be putting on long johns if this keeps up.
You know, I could gab on and on to-night but I guess I better hit the bunk instead. You better watch out for my letters when I once get your answer to that little question no matter which way you answer it.
Now, I'll say good nite to my favorite correspondent. Don't work too hard. Hoping to hear from you soon, I still remain,
As ever,
Johnny
P.S. Is this how you got your job in the bank. heh heh!
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
134
Location
The location of the interview
Llandaff
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-11-10
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny remarks that he's been released from the hospital, and went on a hike in the hills of England.
Title
A name given to the resource
November 10, 1944
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/61f5ac382064ff9b9f20a30a5c68c36c.jpg
79a16de213df347844c7b24da1bff052
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/7de3fcadf5df6fdeef954a7f32453c74.jpg
d2718e20bd88d52b2e0d5064e47b4d39
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/c18ca1fc0981f065fca5cfbcb1645c93.jpg
ff5def7b70fcfbcb5e3d59ad83321fda
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/e4664ab5518cecb6a88cecc216ce5f94.jpg
87d511ce268d81341e0e9ad6f00d8f3b
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/d035ba620fa29709ea5cd27687db9fc8.jpg
d89ffac3d748310cd0ade7a13977f6e2
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/7639b66842a11a157e6d92b46ba23200.jpg
5365f9b15d37a03163958f5f964c70a0
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/e4824c0c4c4a5e724781f675867e83be.jpg
78e066335f522d670c6c0e17627843f7
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/46a3866ee1f9cbc834b34e1b569e87a7.jpg
49e50192c8140fe2876dd097f85195da
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
November 11, 1944
Dear Geraldine,
I was pleased to receive two more letters from you today. These were only three weeks on the way.
Today we had the afternoon off so my buddy and I came to this town to do some sightseeing and shopping. I should say we attempted to do the latter, as we found it impossible. The just isn't anything for sale which is suitable as a gift. We ran into several Joes on similar quests and they were equally unlucky. We are pretty disgusted at present, believe me.
We went into one shop to buy some Xmas cards. That proved difficult too. Apparently the British go in for calendars rather than cards. The cards they do have depend on their message from the picture on the frontispiece rather than on the verse. Personally, I like a nice verse rather than a pretty picture. No doubt I inherited that from my mother.
While in the store, which was also a novelty shop, I noticed a lieutenant examining some lapel ornaments. She bought one so I went up and asked her if they had any feminine appeal. She said they were quite unusual and the only thing she had seen in town which she liked so I asked her to pick you one out. Now my problem is mailing it without getting it squashed. It's only a couple of inches wide and very flimsy so I'll have to make a box for it. This is not a present, by the way, just something to remember me by. Since it appealed to the lieut I thought you might like one as a sort of souvenir.
After leaving the store, we visited the town's cathedral, the centre of interest of any English town. I won't take the time to describe it in this letter, suffice it to say that it was very beautiful. The only thing I don't like about their churches is their habit of burying people under the floor with a small tablet saying so and so lies underneath. I don't like walking over tombs. We met the Lt. in the church again and stayed for a short service which ended at five o'clock. Now my buddy and I are in the Red Cross and have just finished our meal. I'm writing this before we go out to a show.
Say, I didn't know you were twenty-two. Hells bell, I'm only twenty-three myself and figured you were a couple of years younger! You must have had a birthday recently. Congrats!
I'm re-reading your letters now so I can comment on them. to begin with, I agree most heartily that Harold is a lucky fellow. He's following a good course if he goes after a BS in chemistry.
I don't know who you thought would tell me about your male interests as you're the only one I hear from in Sarnia with the exception of my Unc. Anyhow, all I have to say about it is that if you always think before you leap, you'll not go far wrong.
Your fortune telling visit was quite interesting even though I don't believe in those guys. He did a good job of leaving me out of the picture didn't he but you my friend did that long ago, doggone it. Thanks for thinking of me anyway.
I must have given you a wrong impression about those gray hairs. It's true I have some as white as the new driven snow but you can't notice them when my hair is cut short, at least I don't think you can.
My mom misses me naturally, however, she's doing O.K. according to my aunt who saw her in October. Why don't you drop her a line sometime if you want to? She always did like you and said more than once it was too bad you didn't live closer to Buffalo.
Well you should soon have the picture I sent you. I doubt if you noticed much change in my appearance. It doesn't show in a photo, besides I haven't changed much. I look different now than in the snap because of the weight I lost which was fourteen pounds.
Well, my chum is impatiently tapping his feet so I must rush. Thanks a million for writing and I hope you don't mind my doing the following, namely sending you my love. You can always take it in a brotherly way, you know, and so I remain affectionately, As ever, Johnny
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
134
Location
The location of the interview
Llandaff
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-11-11
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny describes a trip into the local English town.
Title
A name given to the resource
November 11, 1944
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/d3f91fe28454fb591e80f3fb75e74e49.jpg
dd2a5e115bff457ff6e44715d800b25b
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/850df276bce4e6758e9e08694e040faf.jpg
0fb80a2719e9f4786551210e7b713c3c
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/18572a139cc2e74966883ea0c01037fb.jpg
2c1d8387cd290c4cc20c31373788b7ff
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/f68ba2fc6cbfa061a261d7ac59b73f0b.jpg
bfd9fd9693716aea4e63a559b2867e91
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/2a488843900c375eeae172cadbc13f18.jpg
0eb18684c5b996ee7e5ba7c9bce0c7c0
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/2859a6ce8b5a4f05b8b7973a588cc681.jpg
047ff6d6c950f342cc2390a7007f69bb
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/cc328b936f372c4e63837f31892a96f8.jpg
15f22ae8a342290325d4dbf5ad304037
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
November 14, 1944
Dearest Geraldine,
This makes the fourth letter I've written to you in a week but I received another letter from you yesterday so I might as well answer & keep up to date. Maybe then we won't find it so hard to know what we're talking about.
I'd have given a months salary to have traded places with you when you ran into Susy - just for that brief meeting. That little dog means a lot to me. She has a lot of friends in Buffalo from the vet who sewed her together when three cars hit her to the kids on the street. She always enjoyed the small children on our street especially my sisters two sparkplugs. She used to keep them from going into the street by jumping up and down in front of them. I hope she remembers me when I get back.
Glad to hear that you enjoyed yourself with your girl and boyfriends on the farm. It must be nice to be able to do all the things you mentioned and be your own boss. You're a versatile young woman aren't you — everything from barn dancing to horseback riding. I wouldn't know how to begin to square dance and the only horseback riding I ever did was behind the ninety horses of my car. Not much to brag about I agree. I don't know as I could trust myself on a weekend with you 'livewires'. Still I'd probably make a good chaperone. I'll bet you like that last remark.
We made a short run of eight hours on Sunday. I was mighty glad it was short as I was 'pooped' as it was and hit the hay early. I think I'll have to take some vitamin pills until I get my strength back.
Our kitchen car came back today so we'll be eating good again. They started out good with tender roast beef, mashed potatoes, peas, bread and butter and coffee for supper. Dessert was chocolate ice cream and chocolate cake. You can have all you want to.
You may be memorizing a new address soon as our original assignment to this train is up in thirty days. We may stay then or be on the move again.
Well, I'm getting well stuck for news but you can't say much over here anyhow. About all a letter amounts to is talking about when you were a civilian and about what you'll do when you reach that heavenly status again. I know I'm going for eighteen holes of golf with my dad. I've never beat him yet but I will.
I almost forgot, I've thought of something I need, namely a pocket dictionary. You've seen these pocket book editions they sell in the dime store and elsewhere. They make a dictionary too, I believe. I can't get one over here of any size. I guess the limeys know how to spell everything, however, I'm just a poor Yank and mighty glad of it. Say your folks aren't English are they? If so you better get rid of this epistle but quick.
Seriously though, you would be doing my buddy and I a great favor if you can find a pocket edition. Thanks pal!
Too bad I have to correspond by mail as I'm in a good mood tonight. Oh well, such is life. If I write too much or if you have any other complaints, let me know. I hope you are well and don't work too hard.
Cheerio precious, Love and stuff, Johnny
P.S. Let me know if you appreciate my literary efforts. You probably don't.
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
134
Location
The location of the interview
Llandaff
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-11-14
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny talks about his family, his current activities, and his needs.
Title
A name given to the resource
November 14, 1944
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/235067953743c72cdc8ee6da3d7da9f3.jpg
362d9832059573c0c4bb65a8a22d7489
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
November 20, 1944
Dearest Geraldine,
Say that's a mighty sweet aroma on those last three snaps you sent me. How about putting a little in something so I can take a whiff occasionally. We don't smell anything like that over here, so how about it? This won't be much of an epistle as we haven't been doing much for the past week. Tonight we're putting out on a run, so I may have more to say in a couple of days. Three of us went to see "The Spoilers' last might. It's an old picture like all the others we see, still it helps to pass an evening. By the way, the theatre closes at eight-thirty and you think Sardines is slow. It was pouring rain when we came out. We always have a job finding our way back in the blacked out streets, especially when the sky is overcast as it was last night. I always manage to make it though. I don't know how much longer I'll be with these fellows. The major told me today that our original order for sixty days attachment has been changed to thirty days and we're overtime already. If I join my company again I'll get a change of scenery. I wish I could tell you about things, however, secrets are secrets. You know how women keep secrets, heh, heh! We've got some hot jive on the phonograph playing through the radio. Makes you want to start cutting a rug.
Well, toots, stay as sweet as you are and remember your G.I. Joe sometimes.
Love, Johnny
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
134
Location
The location of the interview
Llandaff
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-11-20
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny provides a little information about his activities and wonders about his next assignment.
Title
A name given to the resource
November 20, 1944, #1
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/d8361a010f18a153fa56ab9f6c091a7f.jpg
b8b0b1323438206d45f484327dd29e11
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
November 20, 1944
Dear Jerry,
Can’t write much, the censor is to blame,
Just saying I’m well and signing my name.
Can’t tell when I came here or tell where I’m at
Can’t tell when I’ll leave here, no one knows that.
Can’t tell what we’re doing, can’t describe the place
Just saying I’m healthy and still in the race.
Can’t mention the weather, can’t say if there’s rain
All military secrets, must secrets remain.
We work in the daytime, stand guard at nite,
We live in tents with candles for light.
We exist on corn willies with beans for dessert,
No tables to sit at - we eat on the dirt.
There are a lot better places and some not so good
But we’re not complaining, no reason why we should.
We jump in our bed sacks at the end of each day
And dream of our homes back in the good old U.S.A.
Some days I’m happy, some days I’m blue,
But there’s not a day when I don’t think of you.
All feelings aside it’s not so bad,
We joke and laugh and refuse to be sad.
Don’t take this too seriously, not having a bad time,
This isn’t much of a poem but the sentences rhyme.
This is enough nonsense for one person to write
So I’ll call this my letter and close with good nite.
Johnny
P.S. I didn’t compose this but it describes pretty accurately my first five months over here, especially living conditions.
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
134
Location
The location of the interview
Llandaff
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-11-20
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny copies a poem about the standard GI experience.
Title
A name given to the resource
November 20, 1944, #2
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/b05539de4b2e5052eecebecbb05d4d2f.jpg
ef343c9b561b2249a8aaff9df76e9308
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/91edda70d7fa6c96b01993f68cad0ba4.jpg
8f0f5f13556f14a44d4d4f1c4fad7425
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/07a476180ff5e2171cf3acc89e743bb0.jpg
e6210e5a4a631d161fc3836da4e840f5
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/af185fc41188716559b452a50bda9c61.jpg
3c45ce742451a2a4f1843794118bdf7c
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/0af27b0566d43abd4d54ac8d02de38e4.jpg
ed60e43a56c81caf269a9ced4bb867d1
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/348975466a69e98756d40e31b0534ea3.jpg
fdcf3ba62041541c5d542ea173912adb
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/46976b6b989469859067dd222bda2551.jpg
411185f988a6c57b15b2105d409ac63f
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/55d4effb8f086ba7d5daf876275fe24b.jpg
270a313ead6ae3551fc5eea9f373284f
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
November 24, 1944
Dearest Geraldine,
This air mail doesn't go through as fast to the U.S. but I'm not sure that U-mail will reach you. I sent one to you last Saturday but forgot to put a stamp on it so whether you'll ever get it is something I don't know. Here's hoping though.
We've been on the run since Monday night until last evening. That's the longest run I've made so far. Trouble is that I can't tell you what I saw because of the censor. Suffice it to say the weather was generally lousy and the scenery as usual. Very enlightening isn't it.
We had our Thanksgiving Day dinner last night after we got in. I didn't even realize yesterday was the day until a fellow asked me if they would be served turkey on the train. Of course that is impossible when we have only one kitchen car, however, they would get their turkey at the hospital. It's funny how time passes in the Army. Half the time I don't know what day it is.
I've been on the ball tonight in so far as letter writing is concerned. I've knocked off five letters so far and my buddy has written ten. The entire train personnel is in the mood tonight from the captain down. He told me to try to get my mail in tonight so he could censor it and take some of the load off the major tomorrow. They much get a kick out of some of the letters.
We pulled into a station last Tuesday where two other hospital trains were. In the one my two or rather two of my buddies are serving as maintenance men like I am on this one. One is a sgt. and the other a cpl. We were together for five months over here working together so I was glad to see them. Their orders have been changed like mine so we'll probably soon be together again. The cpl. is the one whose wife sent him the sachet so get on the ball—please—and send some of the fragrance that haunts your letters. Well phrased don't you think.
It looks like I won't be able to send you anything other than that damned do-dad. You just can't buy anything over here. We've all tried and end up disgusted.
I just stepped outside for a moment and was surprised to find it a clear night after all the rain we've had. The hills are standing out against a cloudless sky. The moon is as sharp as a piece of lightning against the thunder cloud and the stars are twinkling merrily.
I can't remember when it has been ever so light outside at night. Certainly not since I've been on duty with the train. I'd like to see a night like this when I get home. It would be just right for riding slowly along with some nice dance music on the radio. The St-sgt. is supplying the music for me now on our electric phonograph. There's a heck of a lot missing though.
To help fill in my epistle and also because I think you may like it, I enclose the following lines courtesy of Det. H mailman: G.I. (govt issue) Sitting on my G.I. bed
My G.I. hat upon my head
My G.I. pants, G.I. shoes
Everything free, nothing to lose
G.I. razor, G.I. comb
G.I. wish that I was home.
They issue everything I need,
Paper to write on, books to read.
They issue food that makes me grow
G.I. wish I'd get a furlough.
My bed, my shoes, my G.I. tie
Everything free, nothing to buy
I eat my food from a G.I. plate
Buy my needs at a G.I. rate.
It's G.I. this and G.I. that
G.I. haircut, G.I. hat.
Everything is gov't issue
G.I. wish that I could kiss you.
Here's another out of Stars & Stripes. Our grandmothers believed that there was a destiny that shaped our ends. But the modern miss places her faith in girdles. Heh, heh! I don't think destiny or anything else could improve much on you though, don't your navy friends agree?
Well Toots I guess I better sign off for now. I hope you are well and don't work too hard at work or play. Now hoping they're either too young or too old, I remain as ever with love,
Johnny
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
134
Location
The location of the interview
Llandaff
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-11-24
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny writes about writing letters, Thanksgiving dinner, and trying to purchase gifts to send home.
Title
A name given to the resource
November 24, 1944
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/77c402bf4be029a7eac1f77bb6edf8aa.jpg
a470cdbb6440ced44490928af7308671
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/65b5cf95517a02db7134fe2c5b858d8a.jpg
1d3fa7e84e39e9c4f794de75bc181928
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
Dec. 1, 1944
Dearest Geraldine,
Apparently my mail is taking the long was around again, at least I haven't had any for two weeks. We've been busy as bees lately. We never know when we go to bed where we'll wake up as we've been pulling out on runs in the middle of the nite lately. We've had seven runs in the last six days—one was on all nite affair. They are the kind that tire you out. I'm sitting now all alone in a ward car listening to records I'm selecting and playing through the radio. At present I'm listening to Harry James playing 'When You're A Long, Long Way From Home.' Very appropriate, don't you think. I've found that the first year in the army is the hardest. After that you just coast along and take what comes. There's nothing new to bother you. I imagine you'll receive this letter about Xmas time, so I hope you have a very happy one. Don't eat too much though—you musn't forget your girlish figure you know. My sister is on a permanent diet. My how women suffer! Tsk, tsk! Well, Guy, my favorite, Lombardo is playing 'Goodnite Sweetheart' now so, I'll confess hoping you are well and don't work too hard.
Cheerio, Johnny
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-12-01
Description
An account of the resource
This letter captures Johnny's love of music. He mentions Harry James and Guy Lombardo and two songs he listens to while writing.
Title
A name given to the resource
December 1, 1944
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/f70b556ad88ec0ad128f3307c88528af.jpg
ea4bc7aca1ff5ccd40685c3b89f197ee
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/5da40b7103c5691aebf4ea90e7d01a03.jpg
2d817cd336e8609c82b600f0dc6e8e2b
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
Dec. 2, 1944
Dear Gerry,
I knocked off a VMail to you last nite but I received your letter of Nov. 6 today so thought I might as well acknowledge it now while I've got a spare moment. You'll note I have a new A.P.O now so you can change my address again. Fun ain't it?
I don't see why you worry about being short, as you call it. There are plenty of people smaller than you. Besides, wouldn't you rather be small and cute rather than tall and homely? We're on our way again so you'll have to excuse my writing. It's a fair day at present but plenty chilly. I imagine it will be about five hours before we reach our pickup point so I'll have time to rest up a bit. This will be an all nite session again as most of our runs lately seem to be. I don't do much window gazing anymore, we've seen so much country that there is nothing new to see. I did see some snow yesterday though when we were pulling through a valley near some large hills or maybe they call them mts. I wouldn't have wanted to climb them anyway. Here's a little 'pome' I just saw in the Stars & Stripes: Found a little rabbit, called him Jim, Got 18 more, Her weren't no him. There is generally a goofy rhyme in every edition. I'm out of room I see, so you will excuse me for now. Don't work too hard & stay well.
Best wishes for Xmas & love, Johnny
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
511
Location
The location of the interview
Burnham-On-Sea
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-12-02
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny comments on body image and describes some of his activities.
Title
A name given to the resource
December 2, 1944
-
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/daaf645c767b1d8a6e80de811a854642.jpg
49126306b33319fad6c4862047a0a9d3
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/c4edc25daefeb6a2193ee23f682a614a.jpg
d5f23d4d99e45e31bf99850f0fad7bcc
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/17b7774f03880efb40260d9d8813e9ff.jpg
085e41a63f6bd5a3d03b736521d5e610
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/0286147fe9f46c214dfee1a9e3010d2e.jpg
f8d876a9fbd9979b55d143b06cd16680
https://swroberts.ca/deargeraldine/files/original/f93093710dd0c531aa063b2df9d31dec.jpg
5dfffc1a2eb9b5e6a904e5458abd6278
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letters from 1944
Letter
Text
Any textual data included in the document
December 17, 1944
Dearest Geraldine,
This will probably be one of the last if not the last letter I'll get to you this year. I don't know if my epistle of Nov. 8 scared you or not but I haven't heard from you in at least a month. I realize that my mail is long winded in arriving and you have a heavy correspondence list but—say, I've just through what is probably the matter—you had a relapse after gazing at the picture I sent you. I send you my condolences.
Your package arrived one day last week. I intended to write sooner to thank you and here I am just getting around to it. Thanks a million, Jerry. They couldn't have come at a more opportune time. We were unable to get cigarettes for about three weeks so I shared my good fortune with a couple of my buddies. We all thank you heartily.
We've been in our stable now for two days—correction—three days, however we will be going out again to-morrow.
I actually managed to get into town on Friday night to see a movie. It was "The Canterville Ghost" with Charles Laughton and Robert Young. Charles was his usual entertaining self. There was a young girl by the name of Margaret O'Brien I believe it was. She was the cutest child star I've seen since the days when Shirley Temple was the rage.
Our weather is the usual—you know what that means by this time.
So far I haven't heard one Christmas carol. Either they don't go in for that kind of stuff over here or else I just haven't been around at the right time. I did see one sign of the season yesterday when I went to the hospital for a haircut, namely, holly wreaths on the doors. I think that the less we're reminded about it while over here, the better. I seldom can remember what day it is. That isn't my personal failing as it prevails among most of us especially when we're busy.
Here's another little verse out of the Stars & Stripes, the daily newspaper of U. S. Forces. — To keep our ships on an even keel, takes tons and tons of corset steel, the die is cast, their fate is written, Now our ladies bulge for Britain. They bulge over here too.
Well things are going much the same as far as I'm concerned so I can't tell you anything you don't already know. Nearly everyone is in to-night in order to get a good night's sleep on preparation for to-morrow. One fellow is keeping us entertained by playing records through the radio speaker. All the conveniences of home you know, more or less. We're a heck of a lot more fortunate than Joes in other outfits. As I've said before, I'll be spoiled when I get back with my boys.
Now like the Arab I'll fold my tent and silently steal away. Best wishes for a Happy New Year once again. Pardon me if I repeat myself but if the new year is anything like the old one it will stand for & need many good wishes.
I hope you are well, Toots. Don't work too hard at work or play.
Love,
Johnny
APO
The number of the Army Post Office from which Johnny sent a letter
511
Location
The location of the interview
Burnham-On-Sea
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John C. Waller
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944-12-17
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Johnny describes attending the cinema, Christmas activities, and entertainment with his army unit.
Title
A name given to the resource
December 17, 1944