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Dear Dad: -
We haven't started for the Fatherland yet and believe me it is going to be
some fine hike when we do. It rains continually and the mud is ankle deep.
We have been given more blankets and equipment and our load will be heavy.
You see when the fight was on we were not checked up and everything we
didn't need was "lost in action". I had a pack containing one blanket,
shelter half and safety razor when the war ended. Got rid of my rifle and
ammunition belt and have a 45 caliber pistol now. This takes some load
off, at least. Now we have overcoats, leather jerkins, slickers, three
blankets and a page full of other junk. They come in handy at night but
will make some load to tote.
We are ready to enter the enemy's territory and show them who it was put
the final punch into them. Every bit of harness is shined, wagons, guns
and even tin hats painted. New horses and trucks and everything. We'll
show the Germans an army that will cause them to die of apoplexy.
I am still a Sergeant and find life much easier. I am in command of the
first platoon of Hdq. Co. and it would do your old heart good to hear me
put them through the steps and the manual of arms. It is not new work for
me because I was acting Sgt. during two drives on a privates pay. By the
way I have a new nickname, "Old Curled Lip." They call me that because of
the fact that my upper lip has the habit of curling when things aren't
just right, hence the name. I get along good, however, and never have any
trouble with any of them.
We have the largest company in the Regiment, (about 390 men) and when it
falls my turn to take reveille (sic) or retreat it makes some bunch to
handle. Had a job as witness for one of my fellows who was court martialed
for stealing a motorcycle and taking a joy ride. He got off with a fine
and confinement to barracks. He was lucky considering that he was A.W.O.L.
for about two weeks and toured most of France. Said if he could have
rigged it into a boat he would have been halfway home by this time. You'll
know all about him when I tell you his name. Terence Lacey.
Last week we were going about singing "Homeward Bound" but orders have
changed the tune to "We May be Gone for a Long, Long Time" and "Darling, I
am Growing Old". I'll be ready to join the Col. Ellsworth Post by the time
peace is signed and we are mustered out. I can take it with a grin if you
all stay well and I can keep my health. You’ll soon be hearing the tales
of the trenches from the lucky ones, back from the camps. War will be old
stuff by the time we don civilian clothes.
You Republicans want to get on the job now. The Democrats got us over now
let's see the G.O.P. end things up and get us back. We don't get a vote so
you elders want to remember how to vote. We’ve fought to save the country
now why not let the "Iron Division" have a chance to get back in time for
some of the openings back there.
Well, "We're in the army now and not behind the plow" as the song goes and
here is one lad who is glad he is single. These newlyweds were some
disappointed when they found out the wife would be waiting up for at least
four months yet. They are a moon eyed lot.
We only get 48/100 of a candle per man per day, or week most usually and
it is dark at four o'clock so I must save tallow. I am corresponding with
the Central Records Office and soon hope to learn where Hump is buried.
Sure I miss my buddy. Love to mother and all and here's hoping Grace and
Ben are together soon. Best Love!
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