New Guinea
Wednesday
July 26, 1944
My Precious;
Hi, Tootsie Wuggles! How are you? I'm tired. It isn't the army working me too hard. I was playing too hard. We have two afternoons, Wed and Sat, off duty for organized athletics. I told you the other day they were getting up a ball team and I was going to take a crack at it. Well today the first platoon had challenged our headquarters platoon to a game. There is as much rivalry between such units as between any teams you could find. We had one of those games you always remember. Our team was on the small end of a 5 - 1 score at the beginning of the 9th. Then things happened. Gebby opened up the race after we already had two outs by laying out a triple. Another man, and then another hit singles. Then the old man came up and I hit a single which stretched into a triple by an error on the other side. Next man also hit and I scored the tying run. It went on that way for three more innings and we had to call it for darkness. Not a bad game, huh? I'm still not too old, honey. I can hold my own with most of these youngsters yet.
See what you have coming? As I've heard it expressed, you had better take a good look at the walls and floor before I come home, 'cause you won't see much but the ceiling for some time after.
Bragging again ain't I?
While I'm at it, I might as well make it good. Last night I had been to the show. "Cover Girl". A nice musical with Rita Hayworth. Have you seen it? Well anyhow, in the course of the show, Rita, who is a beautiful redhead called "Rusty" had run out on her sweetheart and was going to marry another man, more for spite than anything else. She leaves this guy at the alter and goes back to her one and only, so everything is fine and dandy.
While walking back to the tent I was commenting about the show to one of the fellows. He asked me if I would take a girl back after she had done that to me. I said I guessed I would, cause my wife would have to do something a whole lot worse to even start a quarrel. He took that up and asked if I meant we had never even had a fight of any kind. "Hell no!" I went with her for four years and we've been married almost that long and never have been close to a quarrel. "That's pretty good." he said. "but I can maybe see why." "You have as good a disposition as anyone I've ever seen." That rather surprised me, however I didn't accept all the credit. I told him you were even better natured than I. Wasn't bragging about you either. How's that for a long story just to blow my own horn? I guess I must be pretty nice. I really didn't think I had been very good natured or easy to get along with since I've been away from you. Without you I don't have as much to keep me happy and contented. There, that evens us up for the time you told about the compliment the Hood boy at the Standard station handed you. "You may not be beautiful but you have a grand personality." I still say he must be rejected because he is nearly blind. I think you are beautiful as well as a lot of other very nice things. I'm so in love with you darling. I'm hurtin plenty. Nice anticipatory hurt though. We'll make up for it somehow, sometime, if it takes the rest of our lives. It'll be an awful long time before I ever again accept you as a good, everyday wife. You're a very special, intriguing, and exciting one from now on. I'm thoroughly wakened now. I sure was a dummy for a long time.
I was a little quick about requesting the Gazette. I got two issues today. May 23 & 26 and while they have the old A.P.O. they have the post office department confirmation so I guess they will come O.K. I also got your July11 air mail letter. Nice one too. At the time you wrote that one you had gotten nearly all the V-mail I wrote. I hope the air mails come to you in good shape. Yours are doing very well. Seem to be about a 15 day proposition. The time and distance as compared with service in the states is very good. Three times as long for about 8 times the distance.
You said in one of your letters that you and Louise thought it funny that neither Mickey or I had said anything about women we saw. well I can't talk for Mick, 'cause I'd think he'd be seeing plenty of them. As for me I think I've mentioned every time I saw anything that I could recognize as female without a very close and repulsive examination. I have seen a few native females with dried up or pendulous bubbles as the case may be, very immodestly displayed. No more thrill at the sight than looking at a side show freak. If these black females looked anything like the girls in "Stormy Weather" with Lena Horne -- well, you would be justified in wondering why I hadn't mentioned them. That kind would probably look very white and attractive after several months away from home. I'm safe as though locked in your closet at home. You're my one and only wife. I'm in love with you.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Letter # 431 July 25, 1944
New Guinea
Tuesday
July 25, 1944
Hello Sweet and lovely;
I told you I was going to write you another letter and a good one too?? Well at least I have good intentions of as much as I can send at one time. I'm on the easy end of the guard detail now and have been writing letters all morning. Work hard don't I? I don't think I'm really lazy, I'm just saving as much of me as I can for the day, when from all you say, I'll need it and probably more. It sounds very attractive though and I'm ready to start anytime. I'm going to use most of this up in answering your letters. I'm getting behind again. If keeping mail coming, and all girls were like you, would help to win this war, it should be over soon. No kidding sweetheart, they help ever so much. They provide the high spots in my day. I love 'em honey. I read them all over several times. Some of the real special sweet ones I've almost committed to memory. Don't think because I'm not keeping your letters that you can back out of anything you've said. You can't. I'll remember it as long as I live. You're stuck with me for good or bad.
You say you could live on kisses and all that goes with it for at least a week and want to give it a try. I do too, and the way I feel now I think it would be possible. That's one side of me talking now. When I really think about it, I'm afraid it's stretching things too far. The spirit is willing but I'm not so sure of the flesh. I'm sure I won't have any weight to spare or excess to use up for energy. I'll need plenty of that fulfilling your expectations and any promises so don't you think we can squeeze out a few minutes a day to fill my belly a bit? Now don't misunderstand. The eating will be purely secondary and only a means to an end. I'll do my damndest, honey, even trying to increase the number of Effingers in the world. Is that a satisfactory promise?
My squeamish wife, as you call yourself, has shown that it was all a case of not knowing how much she was really capable of doing. I know you could do a lot of things you said you couldn't but I never did expect you to be as capable in all ways as you are. You are doing a grand job. I'm so proud of you.
If you like to hear me say we are partners I'll keep on saying it. I always tried to treat you as such only you never seemed to care much about the business end of our partnership. You were doing your part being the best little wife a man ever had. Kept me happy, satisfied and well fed. What more could anyone want? If you want I'll take over the business end again when I come back only I'd just as soon you had your say in it also. I really do think that is the best way. Two heads are always better than one. You are a 50-50 partner in any way you want to participate. It isn't a case of yours and mine. It's ours. Together, we can do anything we want and be so happy it'll be unbelievable. Right?
Now I'm going back a way to your June 29 letter which I got last night. It may be a little old but I like to answer all of them. You say so many sweet things that I just have to comment on. They aren't nearly all true but I'm glad you think they are. Hope you never find out you are wrong.
You're right. There are so many things we had planned to do around our place and were doing when we were interrupted. It's been almost 16 months now. I sure as hell hope it won't be more than a fraction of that time longer before we can start in again where we left off. Of course you may have your hands full with the talked about little ones but I think we can still manage to do all we have planned and more. Did I surprise you by not objecting to your hopes for a little Velma? The objection is a thing of the past. All that remains is the ability??
From your letter you certainly didn't pass up the opportunity of learning all you could about the business while you were at Ed's. The information may be handy. Who knows? I did know most of the mechanics of it. Now we both know.
The code cable address is the one you would use to send an urgent message by wire and get it here quick. You see it is really the same as an A.P.O. The code numbers are used because you don't have an exact address.
I'm glad to know how the package system really works. You don't send much of anything but what I ask for. It has to be small and mostly things that can be disposed of quickly in case of a move. I'll be glad to get anything in the eat line anytime and tobacco etc. I'll mention the Gazette again. If a request is necessary to get it over here, I'm requesting it. Newberry will probably know about it.
Thanks so much darling, for the box already on its way. Hope it doesn't take too long for it to get here. Well I'm about up to weight on this letter. Bye, my darling wife. I'm loving you and waiting.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Tuesday
July 25, 1944
Hello Sweet and lovely;
I told you I was going to write you another letter and a good one too?? Well at least I have good intentions of as much as I can send at one time. I'm on the easy end of the guard detail now and have been writing letters all morning. Work hard don't I? I don't think I'm really lazy, I'm just saving as much of me as I can for the day, when from all you say, I'll need it and probably more. It sounds very attractive though and I'm ready to start anytime. I'm going to use most of this up in answering your letters. I'm getting behind again. If keeping mail coming, and all girls were like you, would help to win this war, it should be over soon. No kidding sweetheart, they help ever so much. They provide the high spots in my day. I love 'em honey. I read them all over several times. Some of the real special sweet ones I've almost committed to memory. Don't think because I'm not keeping your letters that you can back out of anything you've said. You can't. I'll remember it as long as I live. You're stuck with me for good or bad.
You say you could live on kisses and all that goes with it for at least a week and want to give it a try. I do too, and the way I feel now I think it would be possible. That's one side of me talking now. When I really think about it, I'm afraid it's stretching things too far. The spirit is willing but I'm not so sure of the flesh. I'm sure I won't have any weight to spare or excess to use up for energy. I'll need plenty of that fulfilling your expectations and any promises so don't you think we can squeeze out a few minutes a day to fill my belly a bit? Now don't misunderstand. The eating will be purely secondary and only a means to an end. I'll do my damndest, honey, even trying to increase the number of Effingers in the world. Is that a satisfactory promise?
My squeamish wife, as you call yourself, has shown that it was all a case of not knowing how much she was really capable of doing. I know you could do a lot of things you said you couldn't but I never did expect you to be as capable in all ways as you are. You are doing a grand job. I'm so proud of you.
If you like to hear me say we are partners I'll keep on saying it. I always tried to treat you as such only you never seemed to care much about the business end of our partnership. You were doing your part being the best little wife a man ever had. Kept me happy, satisfied and well fed. What more could anyone want? If you want I'll take over the business end again when I come back only I'd just as soon you had your say in it also. I really do think that is the best way. Two heads are always better than one. You are a 50-50 partner in any way you want to participate. It isn't a case of yours and mine. It's ours. Together, we can do anything we want and be so happy it'll be unbelievable. Right?
Now I'm going back a way to your June 29 letter which I got last night. It may be a little old but I like to answer all of them. You say so many sweet things that I just have to comment on. They aren't nearly all true but I'm glad you think they are. Hope you never find out you are wrong.
You're right. There are so many things we had planned to do around our place and were doing when we were interrupted. It's been almost 16 months now. I sure as hell hope it won't be more than a fraction of that time longer before we can start in again where we left off. Of course you may have your hands full with the talked about little ones but I think we can still manage to do all we have planned and more. Did I surprise you by not objecting to your hopes for a little Velma? The objection is a thing of the past. All that remains is the ability??
From your letter you certainly didn't pass up the opportunity of learning all you could about the business while you were at Ed's. The information may be handy. Who knows? I did know most of the mechanics of it. Now we both know.
The code cable address is the one you would use to send an urgent message by wire and get it here quick. You see it is really the same as an A.P.O. The code numbers are used because you don't have an exact address.
I'm glad to know how the package system really works. You don't send much of anything but what I ask for. It has to be small and mostly things that can be disposed of quickly in case of a move. I'll be glad to get anything in the eat line anytime and tobacco etc. I'll mention the Gazette again. If a request is necessary to get it over here, I'm requesting it. Newberry will probably know about it.
Thanks so much darling, for the box already on its way. Hope it doesn't take too long for it to get here. Well I'm about up to weight on this letter. Bye, my darling wife. I'm loving you and waiting.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Letter # 430 July 25, 1944
V-Mail
July 25, 1944
My Beautiful;
Yes, you are too and don't feel let down because this is one of these things after I promised you a good one for today. This is only a little extra and mostly about what you are giving me no chance to forget. Requests. You're a devil, however a very nice, not devilish, devil. Know what I mean? How's this? I love you. I really didn't intend to say that kind of stuff in here but I can't seem to help it.
Now about this other stuff. Writing paper, air mail type. Tobacco and cigarette papers, a pipe or so, cigarette lighters, anything to eat that you think will get here in good shape. The soap doesn't seem to be so important now. We're able to buy it and have a small stock hoarded. I like nice pictures of you too. You know, small ones, not many, but one, once in a while. That is the important items. As I gather from your letter, you only need a request for something and you can spend the allowance on anything else.
I have been told recently that I would probably need to request the Gazette to get it. I haven't yet received any over here and would like it very much. I had sent change of address cards to the Colliers and Digest which act as requests. You might check with Newberry about it.
Your Hubby.
Norm.
July 25, 1944
My Beautiful;
Yes, you are too and don't feel let down because this is one of these things after I promised you a good one for today. This is only a little extra and mostly about what you are giving me no chance to forget. Requests. You're a devil, however a very nice, not devilish, devil. Know what I mean? How's this? I love you. I really didn't intend to say that kind of stuff in here but I can't seem to help it.
Now about this other stuff. Writing paper, air mail type. Tobacco and cigarette papers, a pipe or so, cigarette lighters, anything to eat that you think will get here in good shape. The soap doesn't seem to be so important now. We're able to buy it and have a small stock hoarded. I like nice pictures of you too. You know, small ones, not many, but one, once in a while. That is the important items. As I gather from your letter, you only need a request for something and you can spend the allowance on anything else.
I have been told recently that I would probably need to request the Gazette to get it. I haven't yet received any over here and would like it very much. I had sent change of address cards to the Colliers and Digest which act as requests. You might check with Newberry about it.
Your Hubby.
Norm.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Letter # 429, July 24, 1944
New Guinea
Monday
July 24, 1944
My sweetheart;
This won't be much of a letter I'm afraid. I'm on guard as boss of the first relief so I don't have very much time. I don't know why I'm even writing a note like this when I'll have plenty of time to write tomorrow. I guess it's because I love you and want to keep some sort of letter coming as often as possible. I'll write you a good one tomorrow.
Now the air mail letters are coming ahead of the V-mail. I got your airmail of the 10th and also one of the old ones from June 30. There are still a few missing. They'll probably come along sometime. I haven't anything to kick about according to some articles in Yank. One fellow says he has kept track by months and in some cases had gotten as few as 12 out of 30 letters from his wife. He was also in New Guinea. Guess I'm plenty lucky.
I also got three other V-mails. One from Mom, Hazel and Marg. It's funny. Mom got her change of address notice ahead of yours and apparently ahead of the other letters I sent. I know I had written a couple to her on the boat, V-mail too. I'm sorry I didn't call your attention to the new A.P.O. but I never dreamed the one the army sent wouldn't get there first. Just didn't think. I need you to take care of me and tell me about things I forget or never even think about. Gosh, honey, I sure miss you an awful lot. You're very necessary to me all the time in all ways. I wonder how I ever get along at all now that I don't have you around to look after me. I hope you can read this. I'm writing it on my knee. Bye, sweetheart, I'm loving you so much.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Monday
July 24, 1944
My sweetheart;
This won't be much of a letter I'm afraid. I'm on guard as boss of the first relief so I don't have very much time. I don't know why I'm even writing a note like this when I'll have plenty of time to write tomorrow. I guess it's because I love you and want to keep some sort of letter coming as often as possible. I'll write you a good one tomorrow.
Now the air mail letters are coming ahead of the V-mail. I got your airmail of the 10th and also one of the old ones from June 30. There are still a few missing. They'll probably come along sometime. I haven't anything to kick about according to some articles in Yank. One fellow says he has kept track by months and in some cases had gotten as few as 12 out of 30 letters from his wife. He was also in New Guinea. Guess I'm plenty lucky.
I also got three other V-mails. One from Mom, Hazel and Marg. It's funny. Mom got her change of address notice ahead of yours and apparently ahead of the other letters I sent. I know I had written a couple to her on the boat, V-mail too. I'm sorry I didn't call your attention to the new A.P.O. but I never dreamed the one the army sent wouldn't get there first. Just didn't think. I need you to take care of me and tell me about things I forget or never even think about. Gosh, honey, I sure miss you an awful lot. You're very necessary to me all the time in all ways. I wonder how I ever get along at all now that I don't have you around to look after me. I hope you can read this. I'm writing it on my knee. Bye, sweetheart, I'm loving you so much.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Letter # 428 July 23, 1944
New Guinea
Sunday
July 23, 1944
Hi, Sweet and Lovely;
Sunday again and it isn't a duty day. I have planned to make it just a lazy day. Write a few letters and lay around and read. I had planned that last week and then went swimming all day so all I got done was write your letter. That's the way I usually seem to do. Can't stay quiet as long as there is something I want to do. Guess I'll never change in that respect. I don't think there will be as much difference between us in that respect now, unless you are kidding me about somewhat enjoying getting out and working around the yard. We can divide our time and still be close most of the time. I won't spend all my time out and you won't spend all your time in. Honest, honey, I won't ever object to you following me around every place. I'll like it. I'll need a boss to tell me what to do anyhow after this period of army life. They treat a man like a baby that hasn't yet learned to do anything or think for himself. See what a big job you are in for? Still want me to come home? You better. I want to come home. I love you and love you and love you some more.
Just what I thought. The boys are getting up a ball game and I'm going to play. Hard ball too. Bet I'll be a star at that. Haven't had a hard ball in my hand since high school days. That's quite a long time too. Thirteen years already and I've found out that I've wasted most of that time. I really began to live on Sept 8, 1940. Gosh, I was a long time wising up wasn't I? That makes a lot of years we have to make up for. We'll do it too. Another promise. I'm sticking my neck way out in case I'd ever change my mind about you, ain't I? My usually cautious self doesn't enter into this at all. It's not a matter of thinking. It's a matter of feeling and knowing. I'll never want to change. When you said, "I do", I got the best of all women rolled into one. If you were any better you would have to be imaginary. You're not imaginary by a long way. I can remember! Guess I think you're pretty nice don't I?
Go ahead and dream about Steve all you want to, you devil. As long as they aren't day dreams I don't mind. Someday I'll get even. I'll dream about some peachy red head.
Your tip about writing about the fellows when I don't have anything else to talk about is good. I'll try to remember to do that. Most of them aren't very interesting subjects, but I'll try to tell you anything that is.
Johnny tells me that his wife had another very nice letter from you and you had also sent a picture of us.
She seems to be very pleased. You're nice. Everybody loves you.
I think I know what you mean by, "going through this experience so calmly." I had heard so many fellows say it was so darn hard to go up that gangplank and was all set to feel my knees shake. It really surprised me when it created very little emotional stir, in fact, it was a thousand times easier than saying goodbye to you in front of the Terminal last spring. I was hurtin then. Again, I was surprised at the lack of emotion as the shoreline of the old U.S. faded from sight in the blue distance. Maybe in most ways I'm still hard and unemotional as ever. My own capacity for stirring emotion may be in your direction. I'm plenty stirred and emotional there.
We were well prepared for this to happen. Had been thinking about it for a long time and you weren't there so there really was no separation. I know darn well, if you had been there, like the scenes in the movies, it would have been mighty tough. Only real difference now is, I know I won't have a chance to see you at least once every six months. This will be the longest and better be the last separation.
Gosh, honey, we should get along together. We are so much in love and then everyone seems to be for us. Traditionally, mother's-in-law aren't supposed to be very fond of sons-in-law or daughters-in-law. As you tell me, the whole family seems to be for us. I'm glad. I think my in-law Mom & Pop are very swell too. Like their daughter, couldn't be better.
I'm not half done with this letter yet but my paper is so heavy, I guess I better quit and continue it another time. Tomorrow. You have made some statements and and asked some questions that are going to take a lot of comment. You know, about the homecoming plans and etc. Bye now sweetheart, I'm loving you so much.
Your dough boy that needs an oven
Norm.
Sunday
July 23, 1944
Hi, Sweet and Lovely;
Sunday again and it isn't a duty day. I have planned to make it just a lazy day. Write a few letters and lay around and read. I had planned that last week and then went swimming all day so all I got done was write your letter. That's the way I usually seem to do. Can't stay quiet as long as there is something I want to do. Guess I'll never change in that respect. I don't think there will be as much difference between us in that respect now, unless you are kidding me about somewhat enjoying getting out and working around the yard. We can divide our time and still be close most of the time. I won't spend all my time out and you won't spend all your time in. Honest, honey, I won't ever object to you following me around every place. I'll like it. I'll need a boss to tell me what to do anyhow after this period of army life. They treat a man like a baby that hasn't yet learned to do anything or think for himself. See what a big job you are in for? Still want me to come home? You better. I want to come home. I love you and love you and love you some more.
Just what I thought. The boys are getting up a ball game and I'm going to play. Hard ball too. Bet I'll be a star at that. Haven't had a hard ball in my hand since high school days. That's quite a long time too. Thirteen years already and I've found out that I've wasted most of that time. I really began to live on Sept 8, 1940. Gosh, I was a long time wising up wasn't I? That makes a lot of years we have to make up for. We'll do it too. Another promise. I'm sticking my neck way out in case I'd ever change my mind about you, ain't I? My usually cautious self doesn't enter into this at all. It's not a matter of thinking. It's a matter of feeling and knowing. I'll never want to change. When you said, "I do", I got the best of all women rolled into one. If you were any better you would have to be imaginary. You're not imaginary by a long way. I can remember! Guess I think you're pretty nice don't I?
Go ahead and dream about Steve all you want to, you devil. As long as they aren't day dreams I don't mind. Someday I'll get even. I'll dream about some peachy red head.
Your tip about writing about the fellows when I don't have anything else to talk about is good. I'll try to remember to do that. Most of them aren't very interesting subjects, but I'll try to tell you anything that is.
Johnny tells me that his wife had another very nice letter from you and you had also sent a picture of us.
She seems to be very pleased. You're nice. Everybody loves you.
I think I know what you mean by, "going through this experience so calmly." I had heard so many fellows say it was so darn hard to go up that gangplank and was all set to feel my knees shake. It really surprised me when it created very little emotional stir, in fact, it was a thousand times easier than saying goodbye to you in front of the Terminal last spring. I was hurtin then. Again, I was surprised at the lack of emotion as the shoreline of the old U.S. faded from sight in the blue distance. Maybe in most ways I'm still hard and unemotional as ever. My own capacity for stirring emotion may be in your direction. I'm plenty stirred and emotional there.
We were well prepared for this to happen. Had been thinking about it for a long time and you weren't there so there really was no separation. I know darn well, if you had been there, like the scenes in the movies, it would have been mighty tough. Only real difference now is, I know I won't have a chance to see you at least once every six months. This will be the longest and better be the last separation.
Gosh, honey, we should get along together. We are so much in love and then everyone seems to be for us. Traditionally, mother's-in-law aren't supposed to be very fond of sons-in-law or daughters-in-law. As you tell me, the whole family seems to be for us. I'm glad. I think my in-law Mom & Pop are very swell too. Like their daughter, couldn't be better.
I'm not half done with this letter yet but my paper is so heavy, I guess I better quit and continue it another time. Tomorrow. You have made some statements and and asked some questions that are going to take a lot of comment. You know, about the homecoming plans and etc. Bye now sweetheart, I'm loving you so much.
Your dough boy that needs an oven
Norm.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Letter # 427 July 22, 1944
New Guinea
Sat. eve.
July 22, 1944
My Sweetheart;
Gosh honey but you are a good looking girl. I have the two new pictures here in front of me. Never saw a better looking girl in my life. I mean it too. One of the boys was looking at the pictures and he wondered what a good looking girl like you ever saw in an old man like me. They all like your looks a lot. I sure wish I had you as close to me right now as you were then. I'd hug you and kiss you and look at you for a while and then - Remember the story of the twenty toes? Uh huh. I sure would. Gotta quit thinking of that. I'll have myself in trouble.
We took the afternoon off and went swimming again. I'm surely getting in my swimming this year aren't I? I like it. It was real rough today. Big waves rolling in all the time. They're fun. I like to lay and float, letting the waves pick me up and drop me. Sometimes today they would lift a good fifteen feet. Look around like having a grandstand seat and then I'd slide down into the trough and could see nothing but sky. The tough job is to fight out far enough to swim. No more than get started and a big wave will wash me back to where I started. Really give a fellow a workout in short order. I have plenty of excess energy to get rid of these days anyhow. Nothing but work to use up my strength and you probably remember I never did enough work to completely wear me out. I usually saved enough to take care of you. I'm loving you.
No letters today. I really didn't expect any after the three dandy's I got yesterday. I think I'll answer
them now.
Your hope that your letter would find me in tip-top shape is realized. I'm always in good shape and at present I'm as good as I have ever been. Of course I have a few little irritations such as jiggers and heat rash but they are very minor ailments. I'm afraid I'll never get my chance to go to a hospital and have a nice red headed nurse take care of me. I've seen a few nurses at the beach that would do very nicely. No red heads though. One of them was built on your general lines. I took a good look too. Several of them in fact. She had a bathing suit that didn't seem to want to entirely cover the places it was designed to cover. A wave slap her and she would very close to flop out. Get me?
I don't quite remember if you guessed the date of my first letter or not. I think I wrote one on Sunday but not sure anymore. That was the first day out. The 28th of May, 1944.
I was wondering if you could make out the V-Mail. I try to get as much on one sheet as I can and I thought it might be too small and close to read. You say they are legible so now I know I won't have to change my style. I was also tickled to hear that at least one of the letters written on more than one sheet, came all at once. You tell me it was one of the sweetest letters I have ever written. I don't doubt it. I know if I succeeded in putting half of my feelings about that night on paper it would have to be sweet. Honey, you'll never realize how many times the memory of that night has comforted me. You were so darn brave, sweet, and beautiful. You really gave me a real send off and a lot of sustaining and inspiring memories. I needed the example you set to give me the courage to go back. I was really hating to go back. I'm not kidding either. You're a wonderful help to me even at this distance.
I wasn't worrying a bit about the Life Insurance or anything else about the home or business. I knew you were taking care of everything as well as I could if I were there. I spend all my thoughts of home on something a lot more important and precious than things like that. I'm talking about my beautiful wife and sweetheart.
I hardly expected the birds to like our feeder so well that they would use it in the summer. I was tickled about it because even one bird had used it. The idea may yet work out. As the song goes, We'll have plenty of time for things like that when the lights go on again all over the world. There are so many things that we are going to have fun doing together around our home. Of course those sideline activities will have to be worked in between the more important matters such as getting acquainted again, having our reunited honeymoon, and maybe raising that family we have been thinking about. How's that sound for a good beginning?
Bye now darling. I'm loving and missing you so much. You're my wife.
Your hubby
Norm.
Sat. eve.
July 22, 1944
My Sweetheart;
Gosh honey but you are a good looking girl. I have the two new pictures here in front of me. Never saw a better looking girl in my life. I mean it too. One of the boys was looking at the pictures and he wondered what a good looking girl like you ever saw in an old man like me. They all like your looks a lot. I sure wish I had you as close to me right now as you were then. I'd hug you and kiss you and look at you for a while and then - Remember the story of the twenty toes? Uh huh. I sure would. Gotta quit thinking of that. I'll have myself in trouble.
We took the afternoon off and went swimming again. I'm surely getting in my swimming this year aren't I? I like it. It was real rough today. Big waves rolling in all the time. They're fun. I like to lay and float, letting the waves pick me up and drop me. Sometimes today they would lift a good fifteen feet. Look around like having a grandstand seat and then I'd slide down into the trough and could see nothing but sky. The tough job is to fight out far enough to swim. No more than get started and a big wave will wash me back to where I started. Really give a fellow a workout in short order. I have plenty of excess energy to get rid of these days anyhow. Nothing but work to use up my strength and you probably remember I never did enough work to completely wear me out. I usually saved enough to take care of you. I'm loving you.
No letters today. I really didn't expect any after the three dandy's I got yesterday. I think I'll answer
them now.
Your hope that your letter would find me in tip-top shape is realized. I'm always in good shape and at present I'm as good as I have ever been. Of course I have a few little irritations such as jiggers and heat rash but they are very minor ailments. I'm afraid I'll never get my chance to go to a hospital and have a nice red headed nurse take care of me. I've seen a few nurses at the beach that would do very nicely. No red heads though. One of them was built on your general lines. I took a good look too. Several of them in fact. She had a bathing suit that didn't seem to want to entirely cover the places it was designed to cover. A wave slap her and she would very close to flop out. Get me?
I don't quite remember if you guessed the date of my first letter or not. I think I wrote one on Sunday but not sure anymore. That was the first day out. The 28th of May, 1944.
I was wondering if you could make out the V-Mail. I try to get as much on one sheet as I can and I thought it might be too small and close to read. You say they are legible so now I know I won't have to change my style. I was also tickled to hear that at least one of the letters written on more than one sheet, came all at once. You tell me it was one of the sweetest letters I have ever written. I don't doubt it. I know if I succeeded in putting half of my feelings about that night on paper it would have to be sweet. Honey, you'll never realize how many times the memory of that night has comforted me. You were so darn brave, sweet, and beautiful. You really gave me a real send off and a lot of sustaining and inspiring memories. I needed the example you set to give me the courage to go back. I was really hating to go back. I'm not kidding either. You're a wonderful help to me even at this distance.
I wasn't worrying a bit about the Life Insurance or anything else about the home or business. I knew you were taking care of everything as well as I could if I were there. I spend all my thoughts of home on something a lot more important and precious than things like that. I'm talking about my beautiful wife and sweetheart.
I hardly expected the birds to like our feeder so well that they would use it in the summer. I was tickled about it because even one bird had used it. The idea may yet work out. As the song goes, We'll have plenty of time for things like that when the lights go on again all over the world. There are so many things that we are going to have fun doing together around our home. Of course those sideline activities will have to be worked in between the more important matters such as getting acquainted again, having our reunited honeymoon, and maybe raising that family we have been thinking about. How's that sound for a good beginning?
Bye now darling. I'm loving and missing you so much. You're my wife.
Your hubby
Norm.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Letter # 426 July 21, 1944
New Guinea
July 21, 1944
My Gorgeous Wife;
Gosh, sweetheart I got three air mail letters from you today. July 3, 4, & 7th. There is another case that really goes to show you really can't tell about the speed of the two types of letters. My last V-mail was July 4 and here I have an airmail from the 7th. There are several of each still missing. Gee, honey I sure do like to get your letters. They mean so much to me. You can write as good a loving as lots of girls could put out in person. You're a very wonderful girl. So wonderful that, as I said last night, I can't find a word expressive enough. I love you darling.
I'm going to hit a few high spots on all the letters and then I'll really answer one or two. The pictures were in one of the letters. If I needed any assurance that you are beautiful and all the other things I say, these pictures are it. You're one grand looking girl. That close up is a dandy picture, especially of you. You show more than a suggestion of the things I like so well. It surely proves you have everything when you take a look at me. Nothing but you could make me look so damn happy. I'll have to take a little credit myself, be it right or wrong. You look pretty happy yourself. Guess I'm kinda nice too.
Your little drawing of the twenty toes is cute only it doesn't end quite right. Anyhow, not now. I guess there was a time when it was true but now, nix. My toes wouldn't point away that easily. Even when they did,
it wouldn't be for very long. Remember the warnings or promises I've made. I mean all of them and like you, think I can back them up. I'm loving you honey, and I'm hurtin all ready. What will I be like by the time I get home again.
I can well imagine how you felt when you got all those letters. I only wish they had all been air mail. I know how I couldn't do any other thing until I had read the first bunch I got from you. I think I got either 7 or 9 in the first installment. Gabby said he wasn't going to open any of his until he had them all in rotation. I told him he was crazy and went after mine. He held out for a while and then couldn't wait any longer either.
Mel's question, "What have you got" only goes to prove my, as you call them, prejudiced statements. I'm not much different than any other man and yet they seem to think I write to my wife more than most fellows. It's because I have such a perfect wife. I know darn well I can't replace her so I have to keep her reminded I'm still around. Beside, I like to write to you. You say you like 'em and I would do most anything to please you. If that isn't love, it will answer until I can do more. I bet they don't understand the "la-de-da" you told them I write about as well as I do. If they knew what was in some of my letters they'd have me arrested for abusing the mails.
I'm very sorry to hear about the troubles Art and Marg are having. Art's eye was bad enough and then to add Margaret's to it, especially at so unfortunate a time. Well, it's plain hell. I'm hoping as hard as I can for them. I know if there is anything you can do to help, you'll do it. Give them my best wishes.
All the old standbys at the lake seem to be dying. Hal and now John Skala. He was a good old boy.
You didn't need to send the clipping from the Gazette to prove you are assistant librarian. I believe everything you say. I see by the clipping that the Gazette is as acurate as ever or else I'm crazy. I'm thinking you taught four years at Weymouth instead of two and they started it as though you had never done anything but teach. If anyone thinks that is all you can do, I'll sure tell 'em different. You may be a hell of a good teacher but you're a hell of a lot better wife. I know.
That about covers one letter and I can't answer another without getting too much letter for the price. I'll work on these others over the weekend.
I've been on C.Q. all day so I deserted the saw mill. When I wake the company in the morning I'll be done with this job for a while again and can go back to the mill. I'm getting quite a kick out of it.
I'm glad, sweetheart to hear that you're as happy as you can be with me away. I want you to be happy and it does me a lot of good to hear you say it. Keep the old chin up, and continue being the wonderful, brave girl you are for a while longer. It can't last forever. I'll come back and help carry the load you are managing so well by yourself. The two of us together can take most anything that comes. I love you, honey.
Your hubby.
Norm.
July 21, 1944
My Gorgeous Wife;
Gosh, sweetheart I got three air mail letters from you today. July 3, 4, & 7th. There is another case that really goes to show you really can't tell about the speed of the two types of letters. My last V-mail was July 4 and here I have an airmail from the 7th. There are several of each still missing. Gee, honey I sure do like to get your letters. They mean so much to me. You can write as good a loving as lots of girls could put out in person. You're a very wonderful girl. So wonderful that, as I said last night, I can't find a word expressive enough. I love you darling.
I'm going to hit a few high spots on all the letters and then I'll really answer one or two. The pictures were in one of the letters. If I needed any assurance that you are beautiful and all the other things I say, these pictures are it. You're one grand looking girl. That close up is a dandy picture, especially of you. You show more than a suggestion of the things I like so well. It surely proves you have everything when you take a look at me. Nothing but you could make me look so damn happy. I'll have to take a little credit myself, be it right or wrong. You look pretty happy yourself. Guess I'm kinda nice too.
Your little drawing of the twenty toes is cute only it doesn't end quite right. Anyhow, not now. I guess there was a time when it was true but now, nix. My toes wouldn't point away that easily. Even when they did,
it wouldn't be for very long. Remember the warnings or promises I've made. I mean all of them and like you, think I can back them up. I'm loving you honey, and I'm hurtin all ready. What will I be like by the time I get home again.
I can well imagine how you felt when you got all those letters. I only wish they had all been air mail. I know how I couldn't do any other thing until I had read the first bunch I got from you. I think I got either 7 or 9 in the first installment. Gabby said he wasn't going to open any of his until he had them all in rotation. I told him he was crazy and went after mine. He held out for a while and then couldn't wait any longer either.
Mel's question, "What have you got" only goes to prove my, as you call them, prejudiced statements. I'm not much different than any other man and yet they seem to think I write to my wife more than most fellows. It's because I have such a perfect wife. I know darn well I can't replace her so I have to keep her reminded I'm still around. Beside, I like to write to you. You say you like 'em and I would do most anything to please you. If that isn't love, it will answer until I can do more. I bet they don't understand the "la-de-da" you told them I write about as well as I do. If they knew what was in some of my letters they'd have me arrested for abusing the mails.
I'm very sorry to hear about the troubles Art and Marg are having. Art's eye was bad enough and then to add Margaret's to it, especially at so unfortunate a time. Well, it's plain hell. I'm hoping as hard as I can for them. I know if there is anything you can do to help, you'll do it. Give them my best wishes.
All the old standbys at the lake seem to be dying. Hal and now John Skala. He was a good old boy.
You didn't need to send the clipping from the Gazette to prove you are assistant librarian. I believe everything you say. I see by the clipping that the Gazette is as acurate as ever or else I'm crazy. I'm thinking you taught four years at Weymouth instead of two and they started it as though you had never done anything but teach. If anyone thinks that is all you can do, I'll sure tell 'em different. You may be a hell of a good teacher but you're a hell of a lot better wife. I know.
That about covers one letter and I can't answer another without getting too much letter for the price. I'll work on these others over the weekend.
I've been on C.Q. all day so I deserted the saw mill. When I wake the company in the morning I'll be done with this job for a while again and can go back to the mill. I'm getting quite a kick out of it.
I'm glad, sweetheart to hear that you're as happy as you can be with me away. I want you to be happy and it does me a lot of good to hear you say it. Keep the old chin up, and continue being the wonderful, brave girl you are for a while longer. It can't last forever. I'll come back and help carry the load you are managing so well by yourself. The two of us together can take most anything that comes. I love you, honey.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Letter # 425 July 20. 1944
New Guinea
Thurs. Eve.
July 20, 1944
Hello Sweet & Gorgeous;
I guess I should have a dictionary or something so I could find some different and more expressive adjectives to apply to you. You'll be getting tired of the same old line all the time. I'll tell you what. You can look them up for me and tell me all about them in a letter. Don't take that dictionary as a request. You tell me some new ones that you would like to be called and that will be sufficient. It may be necessary to invent a word or words of my own. I doubt if anyone has yet found a word that exactly expresses what I think of you.
You're so darn sweet, loving, loyal, beautiful, intelligent, efficient, and passionate or comfortable as the occasion demands that it's going to be a problem to find the right ready made word. "Perfect Wife" is as near as I can come to it and, as you can see, it's weak. Can't forget that I love you so much I hurt good all over. That must be in there too. You wrestle with it a while. I can't get anyplace.
I know you'll think I'm silly, but damn it all, you are everything to me so why shouldn't I want something real nice and expressive to call you? In case you haven't realized it, I'm in love with you.
I could go on and on like that and still not fully say what I'm feeling or do justice to the subject. Oh hell! I have to leave it go until I can show and tell you all about it at the same time. Does that make you anxious for the day to come ? It doesn't me. No - not much. I'm hurtin plenty. Almost enough to say to hell with everything and take off swimming back to you. Bet I'd be water logged by the time I got there.
I'm all right, sweetheart. I didn't get any letters to answer so I'm just rambling and saying whatever is in my mind. Seems like a certain very lovely girl is taking up most of my thoughts. It's always that way. When I'm busy I only think of you every few minutes but when I'm at leisure I think of you all the time.
This date, July 20, brings back the start of one of my most beautiful memories. Know what it is? You should. You'll probably look it up to catch me so I'll admit I don't know the exact date but it's darn close. Remember the teasing letter I wrote? I said I had some very good news to tell you in the first part of the letter and then didn't tell you what and asked you not to peak. Then after several pages I told you I was coming to Knox and wanted you to come see me there. Sure, you remember. You read it to Jean and it even gave her goose flesh. Wasn't I a devil? The truth about it is I was so happy and excited at the prospect of seeing you again I couldn't help building up the suspense before I told you the great news. I was missing you so much and slowly finding out how much you meant to me and had no slightest expectation of seeing you so soon that it was the most thrilling suspense I had had up to that time. You probably wonder why I say up to that time. Well, darling, since that time you have given me some very thrilling surprises too. Get me? You know, things like the chair incident at Wilkerson's was expressive of. Gosh, honey, I still get a buzz out of it.
I can't imagine Hartman's thinking I was nervous because the bus was late when I was all jumpy and fluttery and darn happy 'cause I was going to have my wife for a while again. They were teasing you all the way down because of the way you acted. It must never have occurred to them that I could have the same reaction. They just don't know me do they? I loves my wife so much. Then we had to spend time looking for rooms and go out to camp before we could really see each other.
I did sneak, no not sneak, just squeezed you and kissed you and - well can I help it if my hand over your shoulder wouldn't behave? Then we sat and talked on the porch swing. Gosh, honey, everything about that three weeks is as clear as though only a week instead of a year has passed. There are lots of things like that, that have happened to us I'll never forget. I wish I could write another letter with as good news in it as that one. Our day is coming and this time I think we can enjoy it to the fullest. No thought of being separated soon again to mar the perfect relationship. Well, honey, this is it for today. I'll be dreaming of you. I love you.
Your doughboy.
Norm.
Thurs. Eve.
July 20, 1944
Hello Sweet & Gorgeous;
I guess I should have a dictionary or something so I could find some different and more expressive adjectives to apply to you. You'll be getting tired of the same old line all the time. I'll tell you what. You can look them up for me and tell me all about them in a letter. Don't take that dictionary as a request. You tell me some new ones that you would like to be called and that will be sufficient. It may be necessary to invent a word or words of my own. I doubt if anyone has yet found a word that exactly expresses what I think of you.
You're so darn sweet, loving, loyal, beautiful, intelligent, efficient, and passionate or comfortable as the occasion demands that it's going to be a problem to find the right ready made word. "Perfect Wife" is as near as I can come to it and, as you can see, it's weak. Can't forget that I love you so much I hurt good all over. That must be in there too. You wrestle with it a while. I can't get anyplace.
I know you'll think I'm silly, but damn it all, you are everything to me so why shouldn't I want something real nice and expressive to call you? In case you haven't realized it, I'm in love with you.
I could go on and on like that and still not fully say what I'm feeling or do justice to the subject. Oh hell! I have to leave it go until I can show and tell you all about it at the same time. Does that make you anxious for the day to come ? It doesn't me. No - not much. I'm hurtin plenty. Almost enough to say to hell with everything and take off swimming back to you. Bet I'd be water logged by the time I got there.
I'm all right, sweetheart. I didn't get any letters to answer so I'm just rambling and saying whatever is in my mind. Seems like a certain very lovely girl is taking up most of my thoughts. It's always that way. When I'm busy I only think of you every few minutes but when I'm at leisure I think of you all the time.
This date, July 20, brings back the start of one of my most beautiful memories. Know what it is? You should. You'll probably look it up to catch me so I'll admit I don't know the exact date but it's darn close. Remember the teasing letter I wrote? I said I had some very good news to tell you in the first part of the letter and then didn't tell you what and asked you not to peak. Then after several pages I told you I was coming to Knox and wanted you to come see me there. Sure, you remember. You read it to Jean and it even gave her goose flesh. Wasn't I a devil? The truth about it is I was so happy and excited at the prospect of seeing you again I couldn't help building up the suspense before I told you the great news. I was missing you so much and slowly finding out how much you meant to me and had no slightest expectation of seeing you so soon that it was the most thrilling suspense I had had up to that time. You probably wonder why I say up to that time. Well, darling, since that time you have given me some very thrilling surprises too. Get me? You know, things like the chair incident at Wilkerson's was expressive of. Gosh, honey, I still get a buzz out of it.
I can't imagine Hartman's thinking I was nervous because the bus was late when I was all jumpy and fluttery and darn happy 'cause I was going to have my wife for a while again. They were teasing you all the way down because of the way you acted. It must never have occurred to them that I could have the same reaction. They just don't know me do they? I loves my wife so much. Then we had to spend time looking for rooms and go out to camp before we could really see each other.
I did sneak, no not sneak, just squeezed you and kissed you and - well can I help it if my hand over your shoulder wouldn't behave? Then we sat and talked on the porch swing. Gosh, honey, everything about that three weeks is as clear as though only a week instead of a year has passed. There are lots of things like that, that have happened to us I'll never forget. I wish I could write another letter with as good news in it as that one. Our day is coming and this time I think we can enjoy it to the fullest. No thought of being separated soon again to mar the perfect relationship. Well, honey, this is it for today. I'll be dreaming of you. I love you.
Your doughboy.
Norm.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Letter # 424 July 19, 1944
New Guinea
Wed eve.
July 19, 1944
My Sweetheart;
It's rather late for old, "early to bed" me. I've been to the show again tonight. It was a good musical with dancing and skating. "Lady Let's Dance". That Belita gal can sure use her legs. A lot of the scenes reminded me so much of the Ice Follies and Sona's Ice Carnival that we have seen. Again though I wasn't thoroughly happy. There was something missing as always seems to be the case these days. I find myself thinking you must be there by me and when I look I only see G.I.'s. They are company but not the kind of company I'm wanting. You said in one of your letters that you were getting sick of female parties and thought you wouldn't even want to go to another after I come home. Well, that sure goes on my side of the fence too. I never did go very much without you and I surely haven't acquired any desire to be without you in the past year or so. I'll hang on to you rather tightly. I'm not even sure I'll let you go out without me even if you wanted to. I'm going to need an awful lot of you for a long time.
You may not be able to do a perfect job of taking care of me but that assumption must be based on what a person considers a perfect job. Maybe some of the older people wouldn't think your job too perfect, but they are looking at things from a very different point of view than I am. From my point of view you always did a swell job and you've changed for the better in the only way that I might have thought you weren't quite perfect. Get me? You're better now than any expectations I ever had.
I know I used to sew on a few buttons once in a while or wait while you darned a pair of socks, but I never went hungry or got very hard up. Yes, honey, you are very satisfying any way I think about. Best damn girl a man could ever find if he searched the whole world. I've been over quite a bit of it and have never found one that even came close. No getting around it, sweetheart, you were made for me and I'm going to keep you come hell or high water. That's another promise.
You surely did do a good job. Writing four pages in answer to one V-mail. Wish I could do that good.
I didn't get any letters today. I've been answering your July 2 and wandering around just gabbing.
Gus seems to be doing all right at getting home. If he doesn't have to go any farther from home than he has so far it won't be too bad. More power to them. If they enjoy being together as much as we did they'll have a lot of good times.
I'm run down and my empty cot is calling. I'll imagine you are there. Bye, honey. I'm loving you.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Wed eve.
July 19, 1944
My Sweetheart;
It's rather late for old, "early to bed" me. I've been to the show again tonight. It was a good musical with dancing and skating. "Lady Let's Dance". That Belita gal can sure use her legs. A lot of the scenes reminded me so much of the Ice Follies and Sona's Ice Carnival that we have seen. Again though I wasn't thoroughly happy. There was something missing as always seems to be the case these days. I find myself thinking you must be there by me and when I look I only see G.I.'s. They are company but not the kind of company I'm wanting. You said in one of your letters that you were getting sick of female parties and thought you wouldn't even want to go to another after I come home. Well, that sure goes on my side of the fence too. I never did go very much without you and I surely haven't acquired any desire to be without you in the past year or so. I'll hang on to you rather tightly. I'm not even sure I'll let you go out without me even if you wanted to. I'm going to need an awful lot of you for a long time.
You may not be able to do a perfect job of taking care of me but that assumption must be based on what a person considers a perfect job. Maybe some of the older people wouldn't think your job too perfect, but they are looking at things from a very different point of view than I am. From my point of view you always did a swell job and you've changed for the better in the only way that I might have thought you weren't quite perfect. Get me? You're better now than any expectations I ever had.
I know I used to sew on a few buttons once in a while or wait while you darned a pair of socks, but I never went hungry or got very hard up. Yes, honey, you are very satisfying any way I think about. Best damn girl a man could ever find if he searched the whole world. I've been over quite a bit of it and have never found one that even came close. No getting around it, sweetheart, you were made for me and I'm going to keep you come hell or high water. That's another promise.
You surely did do a good job. Writing four pages in answer to one V-mail. Wish I could do that good.
I didn't get any letters today. I've been answering your July 2 and wandering around just gabbing.
Gus seems to be doing all right at getting home. If he doesn't have to go any farther from home than he has so far it won't be too bad. More power to them. If they enjoy being together as much as we did they'll have a lot of good times.
I'm run down and my empty cot is calling. I'll imagine you are there. Bye, honey. I'm loving you.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Letter # 423 July 18, 1944
New Guinea
Tues. eve.
July 18, 1944
Hello Beautiful;
Got another letter from my sweetheart today. You kind of got twisted up on that one I think. You had it dated July 4 and the postmark was July 3. When I started to read it I found it was written on the Sunday you came back from Bub & Bettys'. It must have been the second of July. You hadn't had anything to drink either. Guess you just had too much vacation. My goodness, going out with men and seeing such people as the Louis Bromfields. Getting kinda snooty aren't you? I'm glad you had a good time honey.
This makes two airmail letters and three V-mail since you heard from me. There are still some from June
I haven't gotten. I didn't say but this one today was airmail. Very sweet, complimentary one too. I'll go into detail on it later in this letter.
It rained a light shower last night. The first in a week. That may be a record for all I know. I don't know which is better, dry or wet weather. When it rains all the time it is so damp and steamy and when it doesn't, it's so damn dusty. The dust is real fine and black. Looks like coal smoke. Take a bath and before I get dried off I'm black again.
I'm still in the lumber business. We sawed some rather unsatisfactory boards and then decided to saw out timbers and etc to rebuild the rig. I think it will work better this time. Anyhow it's fun to fool around with. It is set up right on the edge of the jungle and that makes it more interesting. I always was attracted to the woods and this is new and so strange I'm intrigued. Too bad I don't have a hobby of collecting bugs and worms and etc. This seems to be the original incubator for them. All shapes, sizes and colors. Some of the most beautiful butterflies I've ever seen.
Now I'll go back to your letter. I'm sorry you didn't get the airmail letters along with the V-mail. Oh well, I thought you would get the whole bunch all at once. There must be at least another eight that were mailed at the same time. Some of them were continued on two or three sheets. I thought when I did, that you'd probably get one half and have to wait for the rest. Wasn't a very good idea, only I didn't have any other paper. I wanted to write more than I could on one sheet.
So far your airmail has been coming through nearly as well as the V-mail and gosh, honey, I like 'em so much more. I don't have any trouble at all reading your V-mail.
Don't belittle yourself sweetheart. Your writing is lots better than some I get. Look at Margs'. I bet her
V-mail will be very legible.
I guess I explained that I didn't date some of my letters because I was told I couldn't and then the order was changed.
I'm waiting for the big story about your visit with the Bromfields. I imagine it was interesting. Don't get too high hat, honey. Remember your husband is only a poor working man and won't be able to keep up with you.
From what John [Clarius] says I doubt if you will get much news from Bonnie. He says he only says hello, I'm feeling fine. I love you and goodbye. I guess that is about all I say too, only I use a lot more ink and paper doing it. I don't care. I like to ramble on much as though we were talking. Did I ever tell you, you are a very good listener and fun to talk to. You're darn swell in any way. I love you.
Honey, you think way too much of me. I'm not that good. "You're taking it like the man you are and I'm proud of you." I'm glad you think that way but when any compliments for "taking it" are handed out you deserve the lion's share. I'm really proud of you, the way you keep your chin up and write me sweet letters all the time when I know you aren't having it too easy. You're a much better soldier than I. Keep it up, honey. I'm all for you.
You can bet I can't be taken far enough in this world to keep me from thinking of you and missing you. I'd much rather miss you close though. You know, so I could reach out and feel to see if you are really there. Then you say, "Yes, I'm still here." Remember? That's the way I like to miss you. Night darling. I love you.
your hubby.
Norm.
Tues. eve.
July 18, 1944
Hello Beautiful;
Got another letter from my sweetheart today. You kind of got twisted up on that one I think. You had it dated July 4 and the postmark was July 3. When I started to read it I found it was written on the Sunday you came back from Bub & Bettys'. It must have been the second of July. You hadn't had anything to drink either. Guess you just had too much vacation. My goodness, going out with men and seeing such people as the Louis Bromfields. Getting kinda snooty aren't you? I'm glad you had a good time honey.
This makes two airmail letters and three V-mail since you heard from me. There are still some from June
I haven't gotten. I didn't say but this one today was airmail. Very sweet, complimentary one too. I'll go into detail on it later in this letter.
It rained a light shower last night. The first in a week. That may be a record for all I know. I don't know which is better, dry or wet weather. When it rains all the time it is so damp and steamy and when it doesn't, it's so damn dusty. The dust is real fine and black. Looks like coal smoke. Take a bath and before I get dried off I'm black again.
I'm still in the lumber business. We sawed some rather unsatisfactory boards and then decided to saw out timbers and etc to rebuild the rig. I think it will work better this time. Anyhow it's fun to fool around with. It is set up right on the edge of the jungle and that makes it more interesting. I always was attracted to the woods and this is new and so strange I'm intrigued. Too bad I don't have a hobby of collecting bugs and worms and etc. This seems to be the original incubator for them. All shapes, sizes and colors. Some of the most beautiful butterflies I've ever seen.
Now I'll go back to your letter. I'm sorry you didn't get the airmail letters along with the V-mail. Oh well, I thought you would get the whole bunch all at once. There must be at least another eight that were mailed at the same time. Some of them were continued on two or three sheets. I thought when I did, that you'd probably get one half and have to wait for the rest. Wasn't a very good idea, only I didn't have any other paper. I wanted to write more than I could on one sheet.
So far your airmail has been coming through nearly as well as the V-mail and gosh, honey, I like 'em so much more. I don't have any trouble at all reading your V-mail.
Don't belittle yourself sweetheart. Your writing is lots better than some I get. Look at Margs'. I bet her
V-mail will be very legible.
I guess I explained that I didn't date some of my letters because I was told I couldn't and then the order was changed.
I'm waiting for the big story about your visit with the Bromfields. I imagine it was interesting. Don't get too high hat, honey. Remember your husband is only a poor working man and won't be able to keep up with you.
From what John [Clarius] says I doubt if you will get much news from Bonnie. He says he only says hello, I'm feeling fine. I love you and goodbye. I guess that is about all I say too, only I use a lot more ink and paper doing it. I don't care. I like to ramble on much as though we were talking. Did I ever tell you, you are a very good listener and fun to talk to. You're darn swell in any way. I love you.
Honey, you think way too much of me. I'm not that good. "You're taking it like the man you are and I'm proud of you." I'm glad you think that way but when any compliments for "taking it" are handed out you deserve the lion's share. I'm really proud of you, the way you keep your chin up and write me sweet letters all the time when I know you aren't having it too easy. You're a much better soldier than I. Keep it up, honey. I'm all for you.
You can bet I can't be taken far enough in this world to keep me from thinking of you and missing you. I'd much rather miss you close though. You know, so I could reach out and feel to see if you are really there. Then you say, "Yes, I'm still here." Remember? That's the way I like to miss you. Night darling. I love you.
your hubby.
Norm.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Letter # 422 July 17,1944
New Guinea
July 17,1944
My Darling;
I wish I could put all the expression in that salutation that I'm feeling and would be able to put in the spoken words. I think I'm in a specially sentimental mood tonight anyhow. I've just come from the show. It was
"In Our Time". Ida Lupino playing the lead. If you have seen it you can probably understand my mood. It is one of the best shows I've seen in a long time. The love story mixed into the entire show was very beautiful. It brought a lump in my throat more than once. It reminded me so much of our own love story. Ours is also very beautiful. You're every bit as sweet, generous and understanding as she. Like him, I need you an awful lot. You're my inspiration, my wife and sweetheart.
Now honey, that is over, I'll get back to normal. You say your letters might sound queer or even a bit screwy to me. How must some of these things of mine sound to you? I ramble around a lot and repeat myself time after time and yet never really get things said the way I mean to say them. I mean every word of it though. I hope you can understand what I mean. If you can't here is something you can't mistake. I love you and miss you so damn much I'm hurtin. You're my wife. I love you when I'm happy, I love you when I'm sad. I love you when I'm blue. I'm never very mad atcha so I love you all the time.
I got your July 4 V-mail today. They seem to come a bit quicker than air mail but they make me so damn mad. They aren't at all like you and you can't say much more than hello and goodbye.
I'm surprised at the news that Steve may possibly have been shipped. He really wasn't expecting it at all. If it's true, he'll be hurtin. Leaving a new bride almost before they have time to get acquainted.
I also had a letter from Harold. It was written on May 29 and sent regular mail. It was at the same time that you had been in spreading the news of getting a whole bunch of letters from me at once. He thinks you must be in love the way you bubble over about even getting a letter from me. I can imagine. Your ability to be so pleased and happy over most any little thing is one of the reasons you're so lovable. You're the sweetest thing. I love you.
Johnny got another bunch of pictures from his wife that were taken on the trip to the coast. I have ordered a set, so some time in the next couple months you will get another batch from her. Most of them aren't very good but some are swell. I'll explain them to you some day. Soon, I hope.
Well, sweetheart, it's my bedtime again and another day off the waiting period. Bye darling. I'm loving you and sending lots of squeezes and the kind of kisses you like. I love you.
your soldier.
Norm.
July 17,1944
My Darling;
I wish I could put all the expression in that salutation that I'm feeling and would be able to put in the spoken words. I think I'm in a specially sentimental mood tonight anyhow. I've just come from the show. It was
"In Our Time". Ida Lupino playing the lead. If you have seen it you can probably understand my mood. It is one of the best shows I've seen in a long time. The love story mixed into the entire show was very beautiful. It brought a lump in my throat more than once. It reminded me so much of our own love story. Ours is also very beautiful. You're every bit as sweet, generous and understanding as she. Like him, I need you an awful lot. You're my inspiration, my wife and sweetheart.
Now honey, that is over, I'll get back to normal. You say your letters might sound queer or even a bit screwy to me. How must some of these things of mine sound to you? I ramble around a lot and repeat myself time after time and yet never really get things said the way I mean to say them. I mean every word of it though. I hope you can understand what I mean. If you can't here is something you can't mistake. I love you and miss you so damn much I'm hurtin. You're my wife. I love you when I'm happy, I love you when I'm sad. I love you when I'm blue. I'm never very mad atcha so I love you all the time.
I got your July 4 V-mail today. They seem to come a bit quicker than air mail but they make me so damn mad. They aren't at all like you and you can't say much more than hello and goodbye.
I'm surprised at the news that Steve may possibly have been shipped. He really wasn't expecting it at all. If it's true, he'll be hurtin. Leaving a new bride almost before they have time to get acquainted.
I also had a letter from Harold. It was written on May 29 and sent regular mail. It was at the same time that you had been in spreading the news of getting a whole bunch of letters from me at once. He thinks you must be in love the way you bubble over about even getting a letter from me. I can imagine. Your ability to be so pleased and happy over most any little thing is one of the reasons you're so lovable. You're the sweetest thing. I love you.
Johnny got another bunch of pictures from his wife that were taken on the trip to the coast. I have ordered a set, so some time in the next couple months you will get another batch from her. Most of them aren't very good but some are swell. I'll explain them to you some day. Soon, I hope.
Well, sweetheart, it's my bedtime again and another day off the waiting period. Bye darling. I'm loving you and sending lots of squeezes and the kind of kisses you like. I love you.
your soldier.
Norm.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Letter # 421 July 16, 1944
New Guinea
Sun. Morn.
July 16, 1944
Hello Sweet and torrid;
Sunday again and a no duty day. Ain't that something? Slept until 7 and had a very good breakfast of French toast, bacon and coffee. Then I sat down, answered Jim's letter and am now starting this one to you. I'll write at it by starts all day I reckon. I know there will be a time out very soon to read a Sunday paper. Imagine that, a Sunday paper, over here in the jungle. It wasn't delivered by a paper boy and isn't exactly new. It's June 4 and arrived in that shipment I spoke of last night. It's the Sioux City Journal. Hanson's paper. I have butts on it as soon as he finishes. Aren't we smart? So far I got the June Reader's Digest and June 17 Colliers'. Lots of things to read. Guess grand pop better get his glasses out. Here's my funnies so I'm taking a break.
There, I've disposed of the funnies so I can come back to this. I haven't changed so much after all. The funnies come first. I know of one thing that would come before them. Can you guess what it is? Yes, that's right. That would probably always have come first if you had been your usual sweet self the first thing in the morning.
I know now that you always have come first with me but it took this final shock of being separated to make me admit it even to myself. I was so stubborn I hated to admit that anything could so stir me from my complacent existence. You have. Am I sorry? I'll say not. I'm tickled pink it happened. I'm very much in love with you, sweetheart. I'm lucky as hell that the only girl for me is such a peach and loves me too.
We have been having beautiful, hot weather for several days. Hasn't rained for almost a week and that is unusual down here. After I again got used to being wet with sweat all the time I don't mind it a bit. Can't work as hard or as steady as I could in the north. Since I've learned to slow down and stop frequently it's not at all bad. It's really swell sleeping too. Sometimes wake up shivering under one blanket. I'm really being a sleepy head too. I was up one night until the very unheard of hour of 11 o'clock. Most of the time I'm in bed sometime between 7 - 9. Get up at 5:30. Means I have from 8 - 10 hrs sleep. One for Ripley isn't it? The nights are so long and very little to do so I go to bed. Close to the equator the days and nights are always of nearly even length. Almost no dawn or twilight period. Only day and night. Boy will I be full of pep and vitality when I come home. Be a wild savage, outdoor man. Think you can like that kind and maybe tame me to civilization again? I'm going to enjoy the process. You'll have little troubles such as trying to get me to keep the window closed and etc. I still sleep raw though.
That's enough rambling. Now back to your letters. I'm glad to hear the rose bushes are finally getting a start and the sheep are letting them alone. Maybe if we give them time enough they will get there yet.
Don't worry about the weeds. Let them go. If you can hire someone late in the fall to cut them it would be a good idea. In the spring they would be a bit of a fire hazard. Not very important. I may be there by spring. I hope. I wouldn't expect you to use that scythe. It's like the lawn mower. Built for a man and a fairly husky one at that. I am proud of the great number of new accomplishments you have acquired. I don't expect and don't want you to become an Amazon. I want my wife just as she has been. She's perfect that way. I love her.
Yes, I knew Mac was engaged. It happened just before we left Polk. I'm wondering if it really means anything or if it was only the pressure of leaving. I know it wouldn't stop him from getting around if there was any getting around to do. Like one of the black boys in the show said, "The theme song of the G.I.'s in New Guinea. I don't get around much anymore." Rather true. That doesn't bother me. I don't want to go places anyhow unless I have you. I'm lost when I do go out. Any time I think of pleasure of any kind you're a big part of it.
Well, honey. I'm run down. I'll quit for today and do some reading and laying around. Oh yes. I would like to have a fairly good world map. At least of all the war fronts. Something you can mail. Not too big and not expensive.
Bye, honey. I'm loving you and missing you.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Sun. Morn.
July 16, 1944
Hello Sweet and torrid;
Sunday again and a no duty day. Ain't that something? Slept until 7 and had a very good breakfast of French toast, bacon and coffee. Then I sat down, answered Jim's letter and am now starting this one to you. I'll write at it by starts all day I reckon. I know there will be a time out very soon to read a Sunday paper. Imagine that, a Sunday paper, over here in the jungle. It wasn't delivered by a paper boy and isn't exactly new. It's June 4 and arrived in that shipment I spoke of last night. It's the Sioux City Journal. Hanson's paper. I have butts on it as soon as he finishes. Aren't we smart? So far I got the June Reader's Digest and June 17 Colliers'. Lots of things to read. Guess grand pop better get his glasses out. Here's my funnies so I'm taking a break.
There, I've disposed of the funnies so I can come back to this. I haven't changed so much after all. The funnies come first. I know of one thing that would come before them. Can you guess what it is? Yes, that's right. That would probably always have come first if you had been your usual sweet self the first thing in the morning.
I know now that you always have come first with me but it took this final shock of being separated to make me admit it even to myself. I was so stubborn I hated to admit that anything could so stir me from my complacent existence. You have. Am I sorry? I'll say not. I'm tickled pink it happened. I'm very much in love with you, sweetheart. I'm lucky as hell that the only girl for me is such a peach and loves me too.
We have been having beautiful, hot weather for several days. Hasn't rained for almost a week and that is unusual down here. After I again got used to being wet with sweat all the time I don't mind it a bit. Can't work as hard or as steady as I could in the north. Since I've learned to slow down and stop frequently it's not at all bad. It's really swell sleeping too. Sometimes wake up shivering under one blanket. I'm really being a sleepy head too. I was up one night until the very unheard of hour of 11 o'clock. Most of the time I'm in bed sometime between 7 - 9. Get up at 5:30. Means I have from 8 - 10 hrs sleep. One for Ripley isn't it? The nights are so long and very little to do so I go to bed. Close to the equator the days and nights are always of nearly even length. Almost no dawn or twilight period. Only day and night. Boy will I be full of pep and vitality when I come home. Be a wild savage, outdoor man. Think you can like that kind and maybe tame me to civilization again? I'm going to enjoy the process. You'll have little troubles such as trying to get me to keep the window closed and etc. I still sleep raw though.
That's enough rambling. Now back to your letters. I'm glad to hear the rose bushes are finally getting a start and the sheep are letting them alone. Maybe if we give them time enough they will get there yet.
Don't worry about the weeds. Let them go. If you can hire someone late in the fall to cut them it would be a good idea. In the spring they would be a bit of a fire hazard. Not very important. I may be there by spring. I hope. I wouldn't expect you to use that scythe. It's like the lawn mower. Built for a man and a fairly husky one at that. I am proud of the great number of new accomplishments you have acquired. I don't expect and don't want you to become an Amazon. I want my wife just as she has been. She's perfect that way. I love her.
Yes, I knew Mac was engaged. It happened just before we left Polk. I'm wondering if it really means anything or if it was only the pressure of leaving. I know it wouldn't stop him from getting around if there was any getting around to do. Like one of the black boys in the show said, "The theme song of the G.I.'s in New Guinea. I don't get around much anymore." Rather true. That doesn't bother me. I don't want to go places anyhow unless I have you. I'm lost when I do go out. Any time I think of pleasure of any kind you're a big part of it.
Well, honey. I'm run down. I'll quit for today and do some reading and laying around. Oh yes. I would like to have a fairly good world map. At least of all the war fronts. Something you can mail. Not too big and not expensive.
Bye, honey. I'm loving you and missing you.
Your hubby.
Norm.
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