New Guinea
Wed. eve
Aug. 23, 1944
My sweetheart;
As you have probably noticed by the stationery, I got your first package today. There were only a very few and Mac and I both got one. Good job, honey. First to reach here for us. Now you can rest easy, the wrong address didn't have any bad effect, apparently. Everything but the envelopes in perfect shape. The box was well banged up but not a thing damaged. Just like Christmas. I got a big kick out of it. Kinda makes it seem you are closer and still taking care of me. Wish it didn't only seem that way. I love you.
That packing around the camera sure surprised me. I knew from the many times you mentioned it, it must be something "queer" but I never thought of that. I held it up and exclaimed, "My God, look what she uses for packing!" The boys got a big kick out of it. We've been trying to find some use for them but the best we could think of so far is to hang them outside like a flag and make everyone wonder where we've been. Of course it had to get a bit dirty too. Someone wanted to know why not a slightly used one so it would at least have a "smell". Wouldn't that be something? Well anyhow it did the job and beside I like personal things of yours. Never had any love for those things though, did I? Blame me? Every time they show up I loose a lot of special loving. If we go on with our plans we may not have to bother with them for some time. You can throw your "package" away too. I'm not letting myself think of the long bad stretch if it works. Really have to keep on the ball the first half year won't we?
The camera is as good as when it left home. I'll start getting some pictures but don't expect to get any too soon. It takes a long time for developing and printing. The soap got here just in time. I haven't been able to get any for some time and I used my last this week. Laundry soap I mean. The lighters all work swell. Very glad you sent them too. I have three or four books of matches left and that's all. I'm smoking my pipe now for the first time in several weeks. Gosh it tastes good. I bought a package [all I could get] at the P.X. and when I opened it, it was so musty I couldn't use it. This is dandy.
I'm sorry I can't say much good about the air mail paper. This is alright but the envelope type I don't care for. I'll use it on other people I don't have much to say to. It'll be better than V-mail in a pinch too. The envelopes are all sealed tight from the dampness but the stamps are O.K. If you send any more things with glue on them put pieces of cellophane [off packs of cigarettes] over the glue area. Glue won't stick very tight to it. Have to do that here all the time. Even have all your pictures covered with it or the dampness at night will curl them up.
There, I guess that about covers the package. You're a very sweet wife. I love you so much. Thanks a lot, honey.
No letter again today but I did get July 7 Gazette and a Colliers. Contact is established all around now.
I was thinking if I don't loose this camera and get it safely back to the states, it will surely be a well traveled camera. Over almost all the States and Steve even had it in S. America. Now it's in N. Guinea. Sure is getting around.
Honey, all the things I've talked about in this letter can be considered on the request list again. I can use it all the time. I'd also like a new pipe, yellow bowl, or something similar. $1.00 - $1.50. I lost one and so now I have to use the same one all the time. Few cigars might be welcome also. If you ever get a chance to buy another couple of lighters, like the one you sent or similar, I'd like them too. How am I doing on requests now? Enough to suit now? You're sweet. Have I told you that recently? Don't dare tell you too often or you'll be getting too conceited for your own good. You've plenty to be conceited about though, so I guess it's all right. I love you so much I can't see any, [at least very few] of your faults. You're my perfect wife.
The time on the package isn't at all bad. July 3 to Aug 23. I figured at least 8 - 10 weeks or even more. I think you must have the Post Office Department charmed or something. I seem to get better service than most of the boys do. You're some girl.
I take it you're kidding about me sending a baby kangaroo. You'd better be. Even if he could stand the trip, by the time he got there he wouldn't be a baby anymore. Afraid a grown one would be a little like a bull in a china shop.
Yes, I've often thought, that as much as you hate bugs, you'd go wacky in no time over here. Couldn't sit down to read or go to bed if a fly was buzzing around.
Played ball again this afternoon. Put me in to pinch hit in a tight spot again and this time I did it. The game ended 2 - 3 in our favor. I can run all right again too. Like a colt. [an old one though].
Don't ever think I wouldn't like to come home and tell you about the rest of the world. You probably get more immediate information from a letter but there would be times when we could take a long enough break to tell you some things. Maybe at the end of two or three months you have heard most of it.
I'm loving you, honey.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Letter # 459 August 22,1944
New Guinea
Tuesday eve.
Aug. 22, 1944
My precious;
It was a good thing I did stop my letter last night. I got it in the envelope and it really started to blow and rain. One of these tropical storms you read about. We were busy for a while lowering the tent sides and making our homes as water proof as possible. At that we all got slightly wet. The storm let up several times and then took a fresh start. I went to bed and soon knew nothing more about it. This morning the ground was nice and wet but not muddy. It's so sandy that a few hours is sufficient to drain off all water. Trying to rain again tonight so maybe our dry spell is over. Damn these fleas. They're so thick I can hardly write tonight. The desk right around the light is crawling so thick with them I can hardly see the wood. Sure is a wonderful place for bugs. I'll be able to live with the few flies and mosquitoes back home and never know they are around. I've heard it said that old timers in the tropics actually miss all the vermin when they get away from it. I can see why. A nuisance, but so constantly with one that they become a part of the life. They burn with a nice little crackle when they fly into the light. Make good kindling if I needed a fire. The only ones that even attract much attention from me any more, are a species of overgrown June bug. These fellows are big enough to cut steaks from. They sound like a transport plane in flight and when they collide with a person, it's like being hit with a baseball. I've seen some of them at least three inches long by an inch thick. The skeleton is so hard they will almost stand a man's weight before they break with the crunching sound of an eggshell. There is my tall story for tonight. It happens to be true though. I could go on to tell some of our speculations. The other night we were wondering if we caught a few and harnessed them, if they wouldn't make a fair means of air transport. Have to work on that idea and sell it to the army. They bite on things almost that silly.
The company has a victory garden. I never told you about that. Have one about twice as big as ours at home. The officers got hold of some seeds and its' been in the making for some time. Doing darn good so far. Things grow about a half faster than at home. The fellow in one tent took some Lima beans from the kitchen and planted them around the edge of their tent. That was about a month ago. They happened to be pole beans and are all over the tent now and ready to have beans. I've been wondering about the bugs. So far they haven't damaged them at all. Tomato plants are also doing swell. Don't imagine the garden will be much value but it's an interesting experience. Caretakers are recruited by means of those committing small offences. Out of uniform, haircuts, shaves and etc.
While I always liked a garden at home, this is somehow different, so I haven't as yet been able to satisfy one of my foolish desires. Let my beard grow for a month and see what I looked like. Crazy isn't it? Wouldn't you raise a howl if I came home with a full beard or even a mustache? I can still remember one of your not very sweet or inviting comments. " Yuck, Whiskers." and proceed to wipe your lips. That was what kept me from trying to kiss you again for a long time. [At least a couple months.] Unless I'm wrong the first successful occasion was on your 20th birthday. Am I right? Then I got scared and took off without seeing the effect. All I know is I was pretty much pleased with myself and the tingle I got from it. From then on I got a good share of tingles and thrills, even if I did have to keep my lips tight closed for quite some time. Remember? You were a devil and had ideas you gradually changed. "No bare man will ever sleep with me." Have you kept that promise? I'm teasing you ain't I? I'm loving you at the same time. Feel it?
I have inquired about the color film developing and it can't be done here. Might be able to get it done in Australia. Anyhow I'll try to get you some color pictures when it gets here. They say it's very hard to handle exposed film here. The climate does something to them. Have to be taken care of very soon after taking or put in some moisture proof container. Some of the fellows are putting them in "rubbers" and that seems to solve the problem. No other use for them anyhow, unless to make balloons of.
You're doing swell. Twelve rolls of film will go quite a way. Good old Babe always comes through. You're swell, honey. I love you.
Sweetheart, I was only kidding when I mentioned you sharing my letters. I certainly don't care a bit. You can read 'em all to anyone. I don't care if you don't. I mean all I say and don't care who knows it. So there too.
Don't you worry about me at all. Taking care of me comes first all the time. I have so much to come back to, I'm taking no chances of anything happening to me, to, in any way, handicap the homecoming plans we have. I'll bring along a good supply of the loving and tenderness you say you'll be needing. That's what I have plenty of. I loves you, bubbles.
Mick being attached to an infantry outfit doesn't mean anything special. Each outfit has its own specialized men along. Complete units. He never was assigned to any unit before. He was what we call a "basic". He will probably now get some sort of rating. He certainly should, at any rate. I've been attached ever since the first days of my army career. That's why my ratings came regularly.
Those cookies you are sending sound plenty good. Wish they were here now to munch on before I go to bed. Sometimes now I would take you up on a sandwich or two before bed. Remember you always were a bit put out with me when I wouldn't eat with you? I was fat and satisfied then.
The old washing machine must still be running and seems to come in handy for stranded people. Not bad for an old wreck is it?
That headquarters platoon I play ball with. Every company has what is called a headquarters platoon. It is composed of the office men, cooks, mechanics and other specialized men. The other platoons are the fighting men.
The legs are back in perfect shape again and they'll cover the distance back to you and still be in good enough shape to do all required of them.
So Jean was slinging a line to K. Kirk. Leave it to her. She can do it. Kenny evidently didn't know I was in the 775. The pts. and pfcs. were the only ones sent out of the old outfit. I mentioned it at the time we were leaving Polk. Remember?
By the way, where is Kenny and what outfit? Never did know if he had a rating or not. The last I heard he was a meat cutter or something.
Well darling, it's time to close again for tonight. Anyhow I'm almost caught up and I'll need the rest to get started tomorrow, in case I don't get anymore new ones. None today, either. Night my beautiful wife. I'm loving and missing you so much.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Tuesday eve.
Aug. 22, 1944
My precious;
It was a good thing I did stop my letter last night. I got it in the envelope and it really started to blow and rain. One of these tropical storms you read about. We were busy for a while lowering the tent sides and making our homes as water proof as possible. At that we all got slightly wet. The storm let up several times and then took a fresh start. I went to bed and soon knew nothing more about it. This morning the ground was nice and wet but not muddy. It's so sandy that a few hours is sufficient to drain off all water. Trying to rain again tonight so maybe our dry spell is over. Damn these fleas. They're so thick I can hardly write tonight. The desk right around the light is crawling so thick with them I can hardly see the wood. Sure is a wonderful place for bugs. I'll be able to live with the few flies and mosquitoes back home and never know they are around. I've heard it said that old timers in the tropics actually miss all the vermin when they get away from it. I can see why. A nuisance, but so constantly with one that they become a part of the life. They burn with a nice little crackle when they fly into the light. Make good kindling if I needed a fire. The only ones that even attract much attention from me any more, are a species of overgrown June bug. These fellows are big enough to cut steaks from. They sound like a transport plane in flight and when they collide with a person, it's like being hit with a baseball. I've seen some of them at least three inches long by an inch thick. The skeleton is so hard they will almost stand a man's weight before they break with the crunching sound of an eggshell. There is my tall story for tonight. It happens to be true though. I could go on to tell some of our speculations. The other night we were wondering if we caught a few and harnessed them, if they wouldn't make a fair means of air transport. Have to work on that idea and sell it to the army. They bite on things almost that silly.
The company has a victory garden. I never told you about that. Have one about twice as big as ours at home. The officers got hold of some seeds and its' been in the making for some time. Doing darn good so far. Things grow about a half faster than at home. The fellow in one tent took some Lima beans from the kitchen and planted them around the edge of their tent. That was about a month ago. They happened to be pole beans and are all over the tent now and ready to have beans. I've been wondering about the bugs. So far they haven't damaged them at all. Tomato plants are also doing swell. Don't imagine the garden will be much value but it's an interesting experience. Caretakers are recruited by means of those committing small offences. Out of uniform, haircuts, shaves and etc.
While I always liked a garden at home, this is somehow different, so I haven't as yet been able to satisfy one of my foolish desires. Let my beard grow for a month and see what I looked like. Crazy isn't it? Wouldn't you raise a howl if I came home with a full beard or even a mustache? I can still remember one of your not very sweet or inviting comments. " Yuck, Whiskers." and proceed to wipe your lips. That was what kept me from trying to kiss you again for a long time. [At least a couple months.] Unless I'm wrong the first successful occasion was on your 20th birthday. Am I right? Then I got scared and took off without seeing the effect. All I know is I was pretty much pleased with myself and the tingle I got from it. From then on I got a good share of tingles and thrills, even if I did have to keep my lips tight closed for quite some time. Remember? You were a devil and had ideas you gradually changed. "No bare man will ever sleep with me." Have you kept that promise? I'm teasing you ain't I? I'm loving you at the same time. Feel it?
I have inquired about the color film developing and it can't be done here. Might be able to get it done in Australia. Anyhow I'll try to get you some color pictures when it gets here. They say it's very hard to handle exposed film here. The climate does something to them. Have to be taken care of very soon after taking or put in some moisture proof container. Some of the fellows are putting them in "rubbers" and that seems to solve the problem. No other use for them anyhow, unless to make balloons of.
You're doing swell. Twelve rolls of film will go quite a way. Good old Babe always comes through. You're swell, honey. I love you.
Sweetheart, I was only kidding when I mentioned you sharing my letters. I certainly don't care a bit. You can read 'em all to anyone. I don't care if you don't. I mean all I say and don't care who knows it. So there too.
Don't you worry about me at all. Taking care of me comes first all the time. I have so much to come back to, I'm taking no chances of anything happening to me, to, in any way, handicap the homecoming plans we have. I'll bring along a good supply of the loving and tenderness you say you'll be needing. That's what I have plenty of. I loves you, bubbles.
Mick being attached to an infantry outfit doesn't mean anything special. Each outfit has its own specialized men along. Complete units. He never was assigned to any unit before. He was what we call a "basic". He will probably now get some sort of rating. He certainly should, at any rate. I've been attached ever since the first days of my army career. That's why my ratings came regularly.
Those cookies you are sending sound plenty good. Wish they were here now to munch on before I go to bed. Sometimes now I would take you up on a sandwich or two before bed. Remember you always were a bit put out with me when I wouldn't eat with you? I was fat and satisfied then.
The old washing machine must still be running and seems to come in handy for stranded people. Not bad for an old wreck is it?
That headquarters platoon I play ball with. Every company has what is called a headquarters platoon. It is composed of the office men, cooks, mechanics and other specialized men. The other platoons are the fighting men.
The legs are back in perfect shape again and they'll cover the distance back to you and still be in good enough shape to do all required of them.
So Jean was slinging a line to K. Kirk. Leave it to her. She can do it. Kenny evidently didn't know I was in the 775. The pts. and pfcs. were the only ones sent out of the old outfit. I mentioned it at the time we were leaving Polk. Remember?
By the way, where is Kenny and what outfit? Never did know if he had a rating or not. The last I heard he was a meat cutter or something.
Well darling, it's time to close again for tonight. Anyhow I'm almost caught up and I'll need the rest to get started tomorrow, in case I don't get anymore new ones. None today, either. Night my beautiful wife. I'm loving and missing you so much.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Letter # 458 August 21, 1944
New Guinea
Monday eve.
Aug 21, 1944
My Darling Babe;
Before I do anything else, I've an apology to make to you. I'm apologizing and sorry as hell. Here's the story. Remember a while ago I bawled you out a little for not telling me what was wrong with Mom? Well today I got a missing letter that for some reason I hadn't missed. July 12, 1944. That had the story. I had rather supposed it was something like that but after Marg's very inadequate letter, I wasn't so sure. Mom is no youngster anymore. I got the silly suspicion that you folks just weren't telling me. You see, Mom and Hazel never said much about it either. I am sorry, honey. I should have known better than think you wouldn't tell me. I'll accept your promise and never doubt you again. You do write very good letters and keep me informed about things. Love me a lot in them too. I love you, sweetheart. Am I forgiven?
In the same letter you talk about the request letters again. There really isn't a thing but what I've asked for already that I need or want. [That is, that you can send] I'm not kidding, I mean it. Life over here is very simple and almost primitive. The army furnishes all we need. There are so many things in ordinary life that are considered indespensable but over here they have no value whatever. We eat, sleep and work and play. All as simply as possible. Tobacco, pipe, pipe cleaners, cigarette lighters, soap, writing paper, and special little snacks to eat, are about the only items. I like a new picture of my wife once in a while too. She's good to look at and every new one I get is somewhat like seeing you again. [Only seeing though] You're good for a lot more than looking at and you're wonderful to look at. Get what I mean? You will as soon as I can get close enough again. I love you doughgirl.
Am I doing allright on the requests now? I don't hate to ask you for things, honey. You're so sweet about it, I love to ask you. I just don't know of anything to ask for.
I told you about the refrigerator deal. We had one for a few days and it was taken away. Nothing cold at all. Miss it for a while but soon get used to it and don't even think about it.
So you don't know where I kept all my sweet talk hidden all these years, huh? I don't think I was hiding it. I never learned to say things like that until I was forced to say in words, and on paper, at that, what I had formerly expressed only in actions. Not too well even then. At least that is one thing I can credit the army with teaching me. Hard to teach an old dog new tricks, though. It's not spontaneous even yet. I have to think about it and grope for words to express what I mean. Afraid I'll never be glib and easy at that sort of thing. I'll try though and with what I can say together with expressive actions, I think you'll be able to get a satisfactory idea of my thoughts.
You're darn right I mean you and no one but you when I say nice things. What I'm trying to say couldn't apply to anyone but my wife. No one else near nice enough to deserve half as much loving. Not from me anyhow. You say, "Guess I'm something after all". You're silly, honey. You're the most something I've ever had the good luck to come in contact with. Gosh, what contacts too. Tingle like an electric contact when I'm near you. Gosh, I'm glad I gotcha.
I also got a regular mail letter from Harold today, written on July 15. Your's sure got waylaid, someplace.
Now to go back to your recent letters. Aug 7.
Honey, you're leaving me a hell of a big opening, saying you're satisfied with anything I do. You'd better retract that one, 'cause if you don't I'll remember it and who knows what I'll do. You know, keep 'em tied tight or they are liable to stray. Don't know where I'd stray ever, here.
I don't mind your laughing at my ball playing injury a bit. I was disgusted as hell and still it was even funny to me. Thinking I'm in such good shape and then let a ball game get me down. I'd be a sad sack if we got into anything like wire over here to get into. At that it's probably the worst injury I'll get.
Johnny must have built up what I said about a meeting in La.a bit. Partly true only very much in the speculation stage. I did say, that now that you and Bonnie are mail order acquainted you would probably like to really meet. The date is ok by me. I always did want to show you what La. looks like.
We'll have to make up our minds though, which it is to be. Travel or a family. They just don't go together. You know that was one reason we didn't want a family before. We wanted to be able to take off any time we wanted and have no one to think about. I said at the time, I only wanted you for four or five years. Four of them are up only we got cheated of nearly half of them. I'm perfectly willing to go either way you want, only as you say, we aren't getting any younger. Something to think about isn't it?
It's getting windy and raining again and I'm having light trouble so I'm going to cheat you and stop here for the night. Bye my cover girl. I'm loving you more and more all the time. You're my sweet, lovable wife. I love you too.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Monday eve.
Aug 21, 1944
My Darling Babe;
Before I do anything else, I've an apology to make to you. I'm apologizing and sorry as hell. Here's the story. Remember a while ago I bawled you out a little for not telling me what was wrong with Mom? Well today I got a missing letter that for some reason I hadn't missed. July 12, 1944. That had the story. I had rather supposed it was something like that but after Marg's very inadequate letter, I wasn't so sure. Mom is no youngster anymore. I got the silly suspicion that you folks just weren't telling me. You see, Mom and Hazel never said much about it either. I am sorry, honey. I should have known better than think you wouldn't tell me. I'll accept your promise and never doubt you again. You do write very good letters and keep me informed about things. Love me a lot in them too. I love you, sweetheart. Am I forgiven?
In the same letter you talk about the request letters again. There really isn't a thing but what I've asked for already that I need or want. [That is, that you can send] I'm not kidding, I mean it. Life over here is very simple and almost primitive. The army furnishes all we need. There are so many things in ordinary life that are considered indespensable but over here they have no value whatever. We eat, sleep and work and play. All as simply as possible. Tobacco, pipe, pipe cleaners, cigarette lighters, soap, writing paper, and special little snacks to eat, are about the only items. I like a new picture of my wife once in a while too. She's good to look at and every new one I get is somewhat like seeing you again. [Only seeing though] You're good for a lot more than looking at and you're wonderful to look at. Get what I mean? You will as soon as I can get close enough again. I love you doughgirl.
Am I doing allright on the requests now? I don't hate to ask you for things, honey. You're so sweet about it, I love to ask you. I just don't know of anything to ask for.
I told you about the refrigerator deal. We had one for a few days and it was taken away. Nothing cold at all. Miss it for a while but soon get used to it and don't even think about it.
So you don't know where I kept all my sweet talk hidden all these years, huh? I don't think I was hiding it. I never learned to say things like that until I was forced to say in words, and on paper, at that, what I had formerly expressed only in actions. Not too well even then. At least that is one thing I can credit the army with teaching me. Hard to teach an old dog new tricks, though. It's not spontaneous even yet. I have to think about it and grope for words to express what I mean. Afraid I'll never be glib and easy at that sort of thing. I'll try though and with what I can say together with expressive actions, I think you'll be able to get a satisfactory idea of my thoughts.
You're darn right I mean you and no one but you when I say nice things. What I'm trying to say couldn't apply to anyone but my wife. No one else near nice enough to deserve half as much loving. Not from me anyhow. You say, "Guess I'm something after all". You're silly, honey. You're the most something I've ever had the good luck to come in contact with. Gosh, what contacts too. Tingle like an electric contact when I'm near you. Gosh, I'm glad I gotcha.
I also got a regular mail letter from Harold today, written on July 15. Your's sure got waylaid, someplace.
Now to go back to your recent letters. Aug 7.
Honey, you're leaving me a hell of a big opening, saying you're satisfied with anything I do. You'd better retract that one, 'cause if you don't I'll remember it and who knows what I'll do. You know, keep 'em tied tight or they are liable to stray. Don't know where I'd stray ever, here.
I don't mind your laughing at my ball playing injury a bit. I was disgusted as hell and still it was even funny to me. Thinking I'm in such good shape and then let a ball game get me down. I'd be a sad sack if we got into anything like wire over here to get into. At that it's probably the worst injury I'll get.
Johnny must have built up what I said about a meeting in La.a bit. Partly true only very much in the speculation stage. I did say, that now that you and Bonnie are mail order acquainted you would probably like to really meet. The date is ok by me. I always did want to show you what La. looks like.
We'll have to make up our minds though, which it is to be. Travel or a family. They just don't go together. You know that was one reason we didn't want a family before. We wanted to be able to take off any time we wanted and have no one to think about. I said at the time, I only wanted you for four or five years. Four of them are up only we got cheated of nearly half of them. I'm perfectly willing to go either way you want, only as you say, we aren't getting any younger. Something to think about isn't it?
It's getting windy and raining again and I'm having light trouble so I'm going to cheat you and stop here for the night. Bye my cover girl. I'm loving you more and more all the time. You're my sweet, lovable wife. I love you too.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Letter # 457 August 20, 1944
New Guinea
Sunday
Aug 20, 1944
My Darling Wife;
I've been having a very busy morning. Relieved from C.Q. at 7:30 and then had a big washing to do. Clothes being wet all the time and this black dirt and dust form an excellent combination for the laundry business. Some of the more enterprising boys take in washings and make good money at it. Fifty cents a uniform. One fellow I know of has made nearly a hundred bucks since we've been here. I'm too lazy for that. I wash my own and save that couple dollars a week and that's the best I can do. We can use that saving for a good time some day. I also washed my blankets today. I thought they needed it and the water sure proved it. Full of dust. Got almost enough out of them to start a garden. I hunted up the rag bale again and I now have part of a nice flowered dress to throw over my blankets during the day and keep out some of the dust. To look at my bed now, you'd think I had a little deicer living here with me. The feminine touch you know. Like to see what the former owners of these articles look like. The size is about right. Probably belonged to some Australian girl.
Last night I started to send a request and then got sidetracked and forgot about it until this morning. I can use some pipe cleaners and you better keep the soap coming too. Not too much but some. Part of the time we can get a limited supply and then again none at all. I'm talking about laundry soap, mostly. Something to fess on will always be welcome too. There really is very little I want that you can send. You're a sweet girl to keep thinking about it. I love you so much. You're my perfect wife. Passionate parcel too.
I also wrote a few others letters too, this morning. Jim, Mom & Hazel, Jr & Garnet. I should write some more but I think when I finish this one I'll have plenty for today. I don't get any fun writing to other people so I don't do any more of it than I have to. Hell of a way to feel about it, isn't it?
Big ball game with the colored boys today. I'll have to see that. Afraid they will get taken plenty.
Now I'm going to answer some more letters. I can see you holding that triple run and almost busting to play it. I get a kick out of how excited you get when you have a perfect hand. You wouldn't make a very good poker player but who cares? I ain't either. We'll stick to our bridge and pinochle just for fun.
Betty's question about Art and Marg is a poser. I've often though of it too. Where there's a will, there's a way, they say and in a case like this there would be plenty of will. I think we'd manage if we had the same handicaps, don't you? We were slowly approaching it at one time too and didn't experience any trouble. One nice thing about it. No sharp bones or hard places to bump into. You like padding too, don't you?
I was interrupted by going to the ball game. It turned out much as I expected. We got beaten 10-0. The black boys are pretty good ball players but still not too good. Put me in once for a pinch hitter and I struck out. The colored boys only earned two runs. Rest made on errors. That's the kind of teams to play to improve. I like to play against colored boys. They always clown a lot and make it interesting and they are swell sports. Remember when the Grange team used to play the foundry team? Good games.
Honey, I'm going to warn you. If you continue making such egotistical remarks, I'm going to quit telling you how nice you are. Fancy anyone saying, "Maybe she'll appreciate me more and how nice I am if she doesn't see me so often." You were talking about Louise and not seeing her so often now that she was on the afternoon shift. That stinks, sweetheart. Let me tell you how nice you are. You can believe it and know it but don't be bragging. I'm bawling you out. Did you know it? All kidding aside, you are a darn swell person. As good as they ever come. You're my perfect wife and passionate parcel as well as my bobbing bubbles. I love you. Did you mean to give me the impression that Louise was beginning to get up again or was it just a comment? Don't take any shit, honey. Tell 'em off if they don't treat you right. I'd tell 'em off too. I'm on your side you know. Don't think you could be far wrong about anything.
You know all about my ideas and desires don't you? I sure would go for some crocodile hunting if I was where there were any. I think that would be fun. Sure ought to have enough firearms available for the job. I can't promise not to if the opportunity ever presents itself. That would be a hard promise to keep. You know me.
You're a devil, honey. Figuring out that we could pack a lunch and take a thermos of coffee along with us so we wouldn't have to waste time walking the great distance necessary to eat in the kitchen. You may have something there at that. I may be too tired to afford the expenditure of energy for that. Other, more important uses for it, don't you think?
I'll have to have a talk with Mother Nature and put her on the ball. We don't want you in any but the best condition then. I'll be a wild man and need some taming.
Honey, that "Little Velma" business was only a figure of speech. I certainly didn't mean it was my choice of a name. That's the only thing I don't like about you. Sounds so very old maidish and prudish or something. doesn't fit you at all. I'm afraid I'm not much of an authority on names and have only a few that I'm allergic to. That list of names of the boys in the picture will be something to start on, on the masculine side. Some pips there.
I'm sorry, honey, that I have been confusing you on who is in the picture. There were two sets of them taken and I must have them twisted. The one I'm thinking about may be in the bunch Bonnie is sending you now. I told you about ordering them from Johnny. Anyhow, now that you have them all named in the picture you can pick them out. The buck Sargent you speak of is Jarvis. Pvt. Jarvis now. As near as I can remember you have Talkington spotted. The tall T/4 is Brashier. He is six foot three so he should look tall.
Gus sure has a time with his poison ivy. To think he went all the way to the big city to get it when he got it in his own front ditch a couple years ago.
Don't worry about the jiggers. They aren't bad right around here and we are supplied with repellents to keep them off when we go out in the jungle. I neglect to put it on sometimes.
I rather expected an indirect answer to my question of who would get up first. I know you. If you had promised, I wouldn't believe it. No, sweetheart, I was only kidding. I don't mind a bit getting up first. If, however, you do develop into a wide awake and loving wife that early, I'm afraid we'll both have to get up together or I'll be late for work.
Night, darling. I'm loving you.
Your lover
Norm.
Sunday
Aug 20, 1944
My Darling Wife;
I've been having a very busy morning. Relieved from C.Q. at 7:30 and then had a big washing to do. Clothes being wet all the time and this black dirt and dust form an excellent combination for the laundry business. Some of the more enterprising boys take in washings and make good money at it. Fifty cents a uniform. One fellow I know of has made nearly a hundred bucks since we've been here. I'm too lazy for that. I wash my own and save that couple dollars a week and that's the best I can do. We can use that saving for a good time some day. I also washed my blankets today. I thought they needed it and the water sure proved it. Full of dust. Got almost enough out of them to start a garden. I hunted up the rag bale again and I now have part of a nice flowered dress to throw over my blankets during the day and keep out some of the dust. To look at my bed now, you'd think I had a little deicer living here with me. The feminine touch you know. Like to see what the former owners of these articles look like. The size is about right. Probably belonged to some Australian girl.
Last night I started to send a request and then got sidetracked and forgot about it until this morning. I can use some pipe cleaners and you better keep the soap coming too. Not too much but some. Part of the time we can get a limited supply and then again none at all. I'm talking about laundry soap, mostly. Something to fess on will always be welcome too. There really is very little I want that you can send. You're a sweet girl to keep thinking about it. I love you so much. You're my perfect wife. Passionate parcel too.
I also wrote a few others letters too, this morning. Jim, Mom & Hazel, Jr & Garnet. I should write some more but I think when I finish this one I'll have plenty for today. I don't get any fun writing to other people so I don't do any more of it than I have to. Hell of a way to feel about it, isn't it?
Big ball game with the colored boys today. I'll have to see that. Afraid they will get taken plenty.
Now I'm going to answer some more letters. I can see you holding that triple run and almost busting to play it. I get a kick out of how excited you get when you have a perfect hand. You wouldn't make a very good poker player but who cares? I ain't either. We'll stick to our bridge and pinochle just for fun.
Betty's question about Art and Marg is a poser. I've often though of it too. Where there's a will, there's a way, they say and in a case like this there would be plenty of will. I think we'd manage if we had the same handicaps, don't you? We were slowly approaching it at one time too and didn't experience any trouble. One nice thing about it. No sharp bones or hard places to bump into. You like padding too, don't you?
I was interrupted by going to the ball game. It turned out much as I expected. We got beaten 10-0. The black boys are pretty good ball players but still not too good. Put me in once for a pinch hitter and I struck out. The colored boys only earned two runs. Rest made on errors. That's the kind of teams to play to improve. I like to play against colored boys. They always clown a lot and make it interesting and they are swell sports. Remember when the Grange team used to play the foundry team? Good games.
Honey, I'm going to warn you. If you continue making such egotistical remarks, I'm going to quit telling you how nice you are. Fancy anyone saying, "Maybe she'll appreciate me more and how nice I am if she doesn't see me so often." You were talking about Louise and not seeing her so often now that she was on the afternoon shift. That stinks, sweetheart. Let me tell you how nice you are. You can believe it and know it but don't be bragging. I'm bawling you out. Did you know it? All kidding aside, you are a darn swell person. As good as they ever come. You're my perfect wife and passionate parcel as well as my bobbing bubbles. I love you. Did you mean to give me the impression that Louise was beginning to get up again or was it just a comment? Don't take any shit, honey. Tell 'em off if they don't treat you right. I'd tell 'em off too. I'm on your side you know. Don't think you could be far wrong about anything.
You know all about my ideas and desires don't you? I sure would go for some crocodile hunting if I was where there were any. I think that would be fun. Sure ought to have enough firearms available for the job. I can't promise not to if the opportunity ever presents itself. That would be a hard promise to keep. You know me.
You're a devil, honey. Figuring out that we could pack a lunch and take a thermos of coffee along with us so we wouldn't have to waste time walking the great distance necessary to eat in the kitchen. You may have something there at that. I may be too tired to afford the expenditure of energy for that. Other, more important uses for it, don't you think?
I'll have to have a talk with Mother Nature and put her on the ball. We don't want you in any but the best condition then. I'll be a wild man and need some taming.
Honey, that "Little Velma" business was only a figure of speech. I certainly didn't mean it was my choice of a name. That's the only thing I don't like about you. Sounds so very old maidish and prudish or something. doesn't fit you at all. I'm afraid I'm not much of an authority on names and have only a few that I'm allergic to. That list of names of the boys in the picture will be something to start on, on the masculine side. Some pips there.
I'm sorry, honey, that I have been confusing you on who is in the picture. There were two sets of them taken and I must have them twisted. The one I'm thinking about may be in the bunch Bonnie is sending you now. I told you about ordering them from Johnny. Anyhow, now that you have them all named in the picture you can pick them out. The buck Sargent you speak of is Jarvis. Pvt. Jarvis now. As near as I can remember you have Talkington spotted. The tall T/4 is Brashier. He is six foot three so he should look tall.
Gus sure has a time with his poison ivy. To think he went all the way to the big city to get it when he got it in his own front ditch a couple years ago.
Don't worry about the jiggers. They aren't bad right around here and we are supplied with repellents to keep them off when we go out in the jungle. I neglect to put it on sometimes.
I rather expected an indirect answer to my question of who would get up first. I know you. If you had promised, I wouldn't believe it. No, sweetheart, I was only kidding. I don't mind a bit getting up first. If, however, you do develop into a wide awake and loving wife that early, I'm afraid we'll both have to get up together or I'll be late for work.
Night, darling. I'm loving you.
Your lover
Norm.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Letter # 456 August 19,1944
New Guinea
Sat. eve
Aug 19, 1944
Hello Mom;
We're getting a little bit previous with this Mom and Pop business aren't we, honey? It's kind of fun to talk about anyhow. Mom rather fits you. I always did call you Mummy, but that Pop business just doesn't sound like me. Don't get me wrong. I'm not backing out unless we both decide together. It's strange and I can't imagine myself in that role. Won't I look funny, toting an ornery kid around or working around with it tagging me around. Oh well, it's all talk yet. We've still to prove ourselves capable. I bet we'll try plenty hard.
I got two more letters today. Aug 7& 8th. That makes six in two days and all in rotation. Mine are in order now and yours seem to be jumping around and skipping several days. That one you got in 7 days is a record. Best I've heard of here.
I've been on C.Q. again today. Comes pretty regular when so much of the company is away on detail. They came back today so things will be normal again next week. It's nice here with only a few men around. No lines to sweat out, plenty to eat, not that we ever do starve, but there's always seconds, thirds or more when there is so few men.
The kitchen is done except for building a couple doors and I've been getting a lot of compliments on it. It is a bout the best looking structure in the camp. That isn't saying much, however. I built a frame like a house with only the studding up. Remember the night it rained so hard when our little house was that far along? You and I tried to keep dry under a piece of sheathing and didn't do so good. I was disappointed 'cause I was hoping to get the roof on before it got wet.
I'd like to be building for us now, instead of the army. Anyhow I'm keeping in practice so I can finish our upstairs and make room for that maybe crib. Room up there for triplets or more. Think you can produce? Get it over with all at once that way. I love you, honey.
I guess I got to rambling, didn't I? Built this frame out of the produce of Newberger, Brown Lumber Co. Ltd. New Guinea branch and then the mill quit producing so I used bamboo poles for the roof rafters. Covered the roof with tent canvas and sided up four feet from the ground with canvas. The rest is fly screen. It doesn't look bad for a fast job and what we have to work with. Give me my set of tools I have at home and some time, I'd be able to do a real job. It doesn't matter at all here. It's only temporary and only something to keep us busy and out of mischief.
Now I guess I'll answer away at your letters. You surely are learning a lot about this country. It wasn't a very often heard of place until the war. I know I, with my interest in strange places and desire to see the other side of the hill, never learned much about it. Might be because I always looked north instead of south. You are finding out about it much faster than I, but as I learn, I'll try to remember to tell you all about it. It is interesting. I'm aching to get a chance to see the interior. Back up in the mountains. Some of the wildest, most primitive country left in the world today. But I wrote my geography lesson last night and don't have much new to say tonight. Have to study and question some more.
Mick's telling Louise about the air raids and etc. shouldn't worry her unduly. Mick is a non-combat man and he has plenty of protection ahead of him. The only danger is air attack and that isn't very effective against trained men. A fox hole is protection against anything but a nearly direct bomb hit. As safe as driving an auto on some of our congested highways.
Honey, if I'm doing a grand job of writing, as you say I am, it's only because you keep me on the ball and I can't do anything else. You write so regularly and such grand, sweet, long ones that I'd be worse than a piker if I didn't do my best to somewhere near equal you. Even with my best efforts you out write me a couple pages a day.
Remember when I was leaving you for the first time? Over at your folks. Pop was taking me to the bus. You asked me to write every day and I said nix that, two or three times a week was plenty. I did that for a while too, until you made me ashamed of myself by writing every day, no matter what. I like your letters so much, and being as we are 50 - 50 partners, you should get as many as I. Anyhow, I like to write to you. The only way I can talk to you now. I love you.
No, sweetheart, you never bossed me very much. Not as much as you should have, probably. I know I used to call you teacher whenever you did but I think I usually did what you said. It was usually nothing more than "Go wash your face, you taste salty" ,or "Don't wear those dirty clothes again", " Come over here by me" , "Kiss me", "Where are you going? I want to know" . Gosh I'd love to hear those familiar words again. I'm loving you so much and missing you like hell. I'm waiting impatiently for that "big oven" you say I'm going to get. Sounds good to me. Perfect in fact. From the way you talk, I'm going to need every bit of my supply of energy to anywhere near keep up with you. Could be I'll be glad when those bad days come, instead of disgusted, as I used to be. Need the rest. Think so? Or are you kidding me a little? Right now I hope you mean it and still don't know your full capacity for loving. Cocky aren't I? Yes, I'm still keeping track and marking my calendar. For some reason I get a kick out of it. Guess it's because it's something like taking care of you. I got that particular habit back in '39. You know why too. You finally broke down and quit being so hard on me. May not have been proper but I'll never regret it. Will you? I love you, bubbles.
This request business again. I'm trying to remember to request something once a week. There is so little I need it will probably be the same thing over and over. I'm not the only one not sending enough requests to satisfy the wife. Gebby said tonight, his wife was calling him down about it. She said, " What's the matter, isn't there anything you want?" after that in parenthesis "I can't send that!" Apparently we aren't the only ones hurtin and hoping and waiting. Gebby told me one day, in all seriousness, "I don't like it too often." "Weekends are the time." "Then I don't have to get up in the morning." Must be something wrong with him or else he hasn't wakened up yet. How does it sound to you? Don't you dare say good. If you do I won't believe all you've been telling me and I'll have to think I was dreaming the last few times I saw you.
Night, sweetheart. Guess I'll hit the hay. So far my pillow hasn't had any bad affects. Thinking of you does though. I love you Mom.
Your "Pop"
Norm.
Sat. eve
Aug 19, 1944
Hello Mom;
We're getting a little bit previous with this Mom and Pop business aren't we, honey? It's kind of fun to talk about anyhow. Mom rather fits you. I always did call you Mummy, but that Pop business just doesn't sound like me. Don't get me wrong. I'm not backing out unless we both decide together. It's strange and I can't imagine myself in that role. Won't I look funny, toting an ornery kid around or working around with it tagging me around. Oh well, it's all talk yet. We've still to prove ourselves capable. I bet we'll try plenty hard.
I got two more letters today. Aug 7& 8th. That makes six in two days and all in rotation. Mine are in order now and yours seem to be jumping around and skipping several days. That one you got in 7 days is a record. Best I've heard of here.
I've been on C.Q. again today. Comes pretty regular when so much of the company is away on detail. They came back today so things will be normal again next week. It's nice here with only a few men around. No lines to sweat out, plenty to eat, not that we ever do starve, but there's always seconds, thirds or more when there is so few men.
The kitchen is done except for building a couple doors and I've been getting a lot of compliments on it. It is a bout the best looking structure in the camp. That isn't saying much, however. I built a frame like a house with only the studding up. Remember the night it rained so hard when our little house was that far along? You and I tried to keep dry under a piece of sheathing and didn't do so good. I was disappointed 'cause I was hoping to get the roof on before it got wet.
I'd like to be building for us now, instead of the army. Anyhow I'm keeping in practice so I can finish our upstairs and make room for that maybe crib. Room up there for triplets or more. Think you can produce? Get it over with all at once that way. I love you, honey.
I guess I got to rambling, didn't I? Built this frame out of the produce of Newberger, Brown Lumber Co. Ltd. New Guinea branch and then the mill quit producing so I used bamboo poles for the roof rafters. Covered the roof with tent canvas and sided up four feet from the ground with canvas. The rest is fly screen. It doesn't look bad for a fast job and what we have to work with. Give me my set of tools I have at home and some time, I'd be able to do a real job. It doesn't matter at all here. It's only temporary and only something to keep us busy and out of mischief.
Now I guess I'll answer away at your letters. You surely are learning a lot about this country. It wasn't a very often heard of place until the war. I know I, with my interest in strange places and desire to see the other side of the hill, never learned much about it. Might be because I always looked north instead of south. You are finding out about it much faster than I, but as I learn, I'll try to remember to tell you all about it. It is interesting. I'm aching to get a chance to see the interior. Back up in the mountains. Some of the wildest, most primitive country left in the world today. But I wrote my geography lesson last night and don't have much new to say tonight. Have to study and question some more.
Mick's telling Louise about the air raids and etc. shouldn't worry her unduly. Mick is a non-combat man and he has plenty of protection ahead of him. The only danger is air attack and that isn't very effective against trained men. A fox hole is protection against anything but a nearly direct bomb hit. As safe as driving an auto on some of our congested highways.
Honey, if I'm doing a grand job of writing, as you say I am, it's only because you keep me on the ball and I can't do anything else. You write so regularly and such grand, sweet, long ones that I'd be worse than a piker if I didn't do my best to somewhere near equal you. Even with my best efforts you out write me a couple pages a day.
Remember when I was leaving you for the first time? Over at your folks. Pop was taking me to the bus. You asked me to write every day and I said nix that, two or three times a week was plenty. I did that for a while too, until you made me ashamed of myself by writing every day, no matter what. I like your letters so much, and being as we are 50 - 50 partners, you should get as many as I. Anyhow, I like to write to you. The only way I can talk to you now. I love you.
No, sweetheart, you never bossed me very much. Not as much as you should have, probably. I know I used to call you teacher whenever you did but I think I usually did what you said. It was usually nothing more than "Go wash your face, you taste salty" ,or "Don't wear those dirty clothes again", " Come over here by me" , "Kiss me", "Where are you going? I want to know" . Gosh I'd love to hear those familiar words again. I'm loving you so much and missing you like hell. I'm waiting impatiently for that "big oven" you say I'm going to get. Sounds good to me. Perfect in fact. From the way you talk, I'm going to need every bit of my supply of energy to anywhere near keep up with you. Could be I'll be glad when those bad days come, instead of disgusted, as I used to be. Need the rest. Think so? Or are you kidding me a little? Right now I hope you mean it and still don't know your full capacity for loving. Cocky aren't I? Yes, I'm still keeping track and marking my calendar. For some reason I get a kick out of it. Guess it's because it's something like taking care of you. I got that particular habit back in '39. You know why too. You finally broke down and quit being so hard on me. May not have been proper but I'll never regret it. Will you? I love you, bubbles.
This request business again. I'm trying to remember to request something once a week. There is so little I need it will probably be the same thing over and over. I'm not the only one not sending enough requests to satisfy the wife. Gebby said tonight, his wife was calling him down about it. She said, " What's the matter, isn't there anything you want?" after that in parenthesis "I can't send that!" Apparently we aren't the only ones hurtin and hoping and waiting. Gebby told me one day, in all seriousness, "I don't like it too often." "Weekends are the time." "Then I don't have to get up in the morning." Must be something wrong with him or else he hasn't wakened up yet. How does it sound to you? Don't you dare say good. If you do I won't believe all you've been telling me and I'll have to think I was dreaming the last few times I saw you.
Night, sweetheart. Guess I'll hit the hay. So far my pillow hasn't had any bad affects. Thinking of you does though. I love you Mom.
Your "Pop"
Norm.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Letter # 455 August 18, 1944
New Guinea
Fri eve.
Aug. 18, 1944
Sweet and Lovely;
I"m having a fight getting started on this letter. I told you we hadn't had any rain for a long time. Two weeks I think. Well, it's making up for it tonight. Quite a breeze with it too and that's what is bothering me. Can't keep my lights lit in these open air tents. I've got shelter halves strung up all around me to break the wind. Working to some extent too. Usually the rains come quietly, no wind at all. We'll at least get away from the dust for a day or so. In spite of all the dampness at night, it was dry as hell here. Streams are even way low. Guess New Guinea isn't used to such spells of drought. In all the time we've been here it's only been muddy once. This will make twice.
I hit the jackpot at mail call tonight. Four from you. Aug 3, 4, & two 6. That is all in rotation too. The two were for Sat & Sunday, both written on Sunday. All the letters are here up to that. Not too bad, is it? Twelve days for the latest ones.
Gee, honey, that rain sounds good on the tent roof. I always did like to hear it pattering down. Remember we used to sit in the car and love and let it rain? Then later, after Sept 8, 1940 we'd think it a swell night to go to bed and love. Swell night to go to sleep, period, tonight. I'm always thinking of you and things we've done. Had a lot of fun, and sweetheart, there are lots more of them coming. I love you, darling.
That night of Sept 8th it rained, like the devil too, didn't it? The lights were all out in the little town where we stayed. Ate supper by candle light. Then we went to our cabin and - gosh, honey I'm tingling and thrilling all over. Who said I was numb? Lots of life left in the old thing yet. I see why Mel asks what you got. It's some girl that can be so far away and have that affect. You're perfect honey. I'm loving you. Don't dare look at your leg picture or I'd be like the old days when I had to go home and leave you.
I couldn't find any trace of my little ring. I'm in production on another and if my luck holds, I may get it done in time. I'm still awful mad about it. It may not be very important but to me it's as important as anything could be. I have always, contrary to the usual story, remembered that anniversary and always will. Biggest thing ever happened to me. I was very lucky. Got me a perfect wife. I'm in love with her. I'd sure be a lost guy without you.
Now I'll start on your letters.
If Steve did leave on July 20, he should be here by now and getting his first initiation to New Guinea. Wonder how he likes it? I'm going to write him a letter at the address you sent and take a chance on it being right. Very seldom land at the place you head for. We got sidetracked and he may have also. I would like to see him but it's hard to get places here. No bus or train or even roads.
I'm glad the indications are much better that Steve picked a good wife. He's a lot better fellow than most people know. I expect I knew him better than anyone else in Medina or maybe anyplace. Being somewhat the same way myself, I could understand him even if I didn't always approve. I never could tell why I stayed with him so long. Some bond or attraction that always held me even when I was disgusted with him. I know she can't compare with you but she can still be a damn nice girl. I surely hope so. Don't think Harold would be taken in very easily, if she wasn't.
I don't mind your comment on New Guinea a bit. In fact, I like them. Tell me more. I'm learning more from your letters than I'm learning here on the spot. I too was surprised at the size of the island. The army gave us a handbook on it. That, and your letters are my source of information. It is roughly 1300 miles long and 400 miles wide at its' widest point. Twice the size of Japan and much larger than Germany. Has the most rugged stretches of tropical country in the world, much of which was undeveloped until the war came along. The backbone of the mountains rises in places as high as 16,000 feet and is perpetually snow covered, even in this latitude. You may have learned all this already, but some of it may add to the picture.
The food of the natives is much as you write about. There are others, however. Roots of lilies, yams, breadfruit, corn and manioc, sugarcane, pineapple, fish and some game. Breadfruit is a knobby, yellow green fruit, looks somewhat like a pineapple and can be either roasted or steamed. The trees are of medium size with leaves like big fig leaves. You know what a fig leaf is "cause I remember the story you tell about the first one you saw at the fair in Chicago. These would be very adequate for size. Manioc is the grain tapioca is made from. Sugarcane grows wild. New Guinea is its' original home.
The coconut palm is a big food and drink producer. Thirsty: pick a green husked nut that is nearly full size. The meat is starting to form and the whole nut is filled with milk. Cool and refreshing. Hunger: The meat is very nutritious and can be shredded and squeezed to get a cream similar to milk cream. By adding water to this, a passable substitute for milk is obtained. Even the growing tops of the tree can be cut and cooked like cabbage.
This sago palm you speak of is a thorny palm which they cut down and split. The pith inside, similar to the center of a cornstalk, is soaked and squeezed in water and the sediment is dried into flour. It's very starchy.
The white grubs from rotten logs and etc. are big fellows. I've found some that are almost the size of shrimp and for that matter, look as good. No, I haven't eaten any yet and don't intend to until I get darn hungry.
Betel chewing is the natives tobacco. I don't know about it being intoxicating and my manual only says it will blacken the teeth.
There are jungle schools, which some of the boys attend, where, under native or Australian supervision, they are taught to know and find the various foods, sources of water, and how to travel in the jungle. Don't know if I'll get a chance at it or not but I've been talking to some that have. The jungle is hostile to strangers, but it's possible and even rather easy to live indefinitely off the jungle, once initiated into the tricks.
You're darn right I know why you called Art a bastard. I'd like to call him one right now for the same reason. That was a hell of a time to call, about the third picture in the series of 20 toes. It was only a temporary delay though. Temporary delay is a lot better than this delay.
You won't have to keep me by you, honey. I'll stay willingly. I know where I'm well off and very well taken care of. You'll have to beat me away with a club.
Bed time again, honey. I'm loving you. You, my wife. Gee, but you're swell and I'm glad I gotcha. Night, Tootsie Wuggles.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Fri eve.
Aug. 18, 1944
Sweet and Lovely;
I"m having a fight getting started on this letter. I told you we hadn't had any rain for a long time. Two weeks I think. Well, it's making up for it tonight. Quite a breeze with it too and that's what is bothering me. Can't keep my lights lit in these open air tents. I've got shelter halves strung up all around me to break the wind. Working to some extent too. Usually the rains come quietly, no wind at all. We'll at least get away from the dust for a day or so. In spite of all the dampness at night, it was dry as hell here. Streams are even way low. Guess New Guinea isn't used to such spells of drought. In all the time we've been here it's only been muddy once. This will make twice.
I hit the jackpot at mail call tonight. Four from you. Aug 3, 4, & two 6. That is all in rotation too. The two were for Sat & Sunday, both written on Sunday. All the letters are here up to that. Not too bad, is it? Twelve days for the latest ones.
Gee, honey, that rain sounds good on the tent roof. I always did like to hear it pattering down. Remember we used to sit in the car and love and let it rain? Then later, after Sept 8, 1940 we'd think it a swell night to go to bed and love. Swell night to go to sleep, period, tonight. I'm always thinking of you and things we've done. Had a lot of fun, and sweetheart, there are lots more of them coming. I love you, darling.
That night of Sept 8th it rained, like the devil too, didn't it? The lights were all out in the little town where we stayed. Ate supper by candle light. Then we went to our cabin and - gosh, honey I'm tingling and thrilling all over. Who said I was numb? Lots of life left in the old thing yet. I see why Mel asks what you got. It's some girl that can be so far away and have that affect. You're perfect honey. I'm loving you. Don't dare look at your leg picture or I'd be like the old days when I had to go home and leave you.
I couldn't find any trace of my little ring. I'm in production on another and if my luck holds, I may get it done in time. I'm still awful mad about it. It may not be very important but to me it's as important as anything could be. I have always, contrary to the usual story, remembered that anniversary and always will. Biggest thing ever happened to me. I was very lucky. Got me a perfect wife. I'm in love with her. I'd sure be a lost guy without you.
Now I'll start on your letters.
If Steve did leave on July 20, he should be here by now and getting his first initiation to New Guinea. Wonder how he likes it? I'm going to write him a letter at the address you sent and take a chance on it being right. Very seldom land at the place you head for. We got sidetracked and he may have also. I would like to see him but it's hard to get places here. No bus or train or even roads.
I'm glad the indications are much better that Steve picked a good wife. He's a lot better fellow than most people know. I expect I knew him better than anyone else in Medina or maybe anyplace. Being somewhat the same way myself, I could understand him even if I didn't always approve. I never could tell why I stayed with him so long. Some bond or attraction that always held me even when I was disgusted with him. I know she can't compare with you but she can still be a damn nice girl. I surely hope so. Don't think Harold would be taken in very easily, if she wasn't.
I don't mind your comment on New Guinea a bit. In fact, I like them. Tell me more. I'm learning more from your letters than I'm learning here on the spot. I too was surprised at the size of the island. The army gave us a handbook on it. That, and your letters are my source of information. It is roughly 1300 miles long and 400 miles wide at its' widest point. Twice the size of Japan and much larger than Germany. Has the most rugged stretches of tropical country in the world, much of which was undeveloped until the war came along. The backbone of the mountains rises in places as high as 16,000 feet and is perpetually snow covered, even in this latitude. You may have learned all this already, but some of it may add to the picture.
The food of the natives is much as you write about. There are others, however. Roots of lilies, yams, breadfruit, corn and manioc, sugarcane, pineapple, fish and some game. Breadfruit is a knobby, yellow green fruit, looks somewhat like a pineapple and can be either roasted or steamed. The trees are of medium size with leaves like big fig leaves. You know what a fig leaf is "cause I remember the story you tell about the first one you saw at the fair in Chicago. These would be very adequate for size. Manioc is the grain tapioca is made from. Sugarcane grows wild. New Guinea is its' original home.
The coconut palm is a big food and drink producer. Thirsty: pick a green husked nut that is nearly full size. The meat is starting to form and the whole nut is filled with milk. Cool and refreshing. Hunger: The meat is very nutritious and can be shredded and squeezed to get a cream similar to milk cream. By adding water to this, a passable substitute for milk is obtained. Even the growing tops of the tree can be cut and cooked like cabbage.
This sago palm you speak of is a thorny palm which they cut down and split. The pith inside, similar to the center of a cornstalk, is soaked and squeezed in water and the sediment is dried into flour. It's very starchy.
The white grubs from rotten logs and etc. are big fellows. I've found some that are almost the size of shrimp and for that matter, look as good. No, I haven't eaten any yet and don't intend to until I get darn hungry.
Betel chewing is the natives tobacco. I don't know about it being intoxicating and my manual only says it will blacken the teeth.
There are jungle schools, which some of the boys attend, where, under native or Australian supervision, they are taught to know and find the various foods, sources of water, and how to travel in the jungle. Don't know if I'll get a chance at it or not but I've been talking to some that have. The jungle is hostile to strangers, but it's possible and even rather easy to live indefinitely off the jungle, once initiated into the tricks.
You're darn right I know why you called Art a bastard. I'd like to call him one right now for the same reason. That was a hell of a time to call, about the third picture in the series of 20 toes. It was only a temporary delay though. Temporary delay is a lot better than this delay.
You won't have to keep me by you, honey. I'll stay willingly. I know where I'm well off and very well taken care of. You'll have to beat me away with a club.
Bed time again, honey. I'm loving you. You, my wife. Gee, but you're swell and I'm glad I gotcha. Night, Tootsie Wuggles.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Letter # 454 August 17, 1944
New Guinea
Thurs. eve
Aug 17, 1944
My Darling;
Honey, I'm so mad tonight, I don't know if I can write a decent letter or not. Remember you asked if I couldn't make a bracelet like Tony sent May and I said I was working on a project of the sort then. I was making a ring from a florin [ 32 cent piece]. I had it all done and was going to send it so it would be a token on our anniversary. Some son-of-a-bitch stole it off my desk today. Didn't have much value but I spent a good many hours making it. It was rather cute, thin silver band with slightly flared top and I had cut and set a tiny heart on it. One fellow offered me three pounds for it, so it must have been ok. I'll try making another, but I don't think I'll be able to get it done in time. I'd have to mail it by a week from today. It makes me so damn mad I'd half kill the guy if I could catch him. I wanted to send you something. As I said, it wasn't worth much except as a token or keepsake. To me a ring is a good luck charm. When you accepted my ring it was the best piece of luck I ever had or expect to have again. The damn fool took that and never touched my billfold, watch,knives, or anything else. I hope he dies with a hard on. There, I feel a little better after crying on your shoulder. You're a big comfort, honey. I love you so much. I'll build another. Hope I can do as good a job this time. Anyhow, I tried to send you something.
I got a letter today, honey. Aug 2. Also got one from Jim. It was postmarked the 9th and marked "inter island". Took plenty long to cover that short distance, if your information is correct. That's only about 700 miles east and slightly south of here. As usual he doesn't say much in his letters. I'll answer your letter and then if I have room continue with the trip story.
Gosh, honey, I know your bridge parties were noisy and sometimes rather vulgar. I used to be in the basement once in a while, but I don't think they were quite a battle.
Rather a coincidence you write about Jim's letter and where he is and the same day I get a letter from him. His probability of getting home sounds good and I sure hope he does. He's been over here long enough, but from the dope I get on the rotation plan, at least in the army, it's very improbable he'll get home before the end of the war. Rotation plan sounds good but in action it's absolutely crazy. Jim has been in the service since Oct 42 but didn't go over until about the time I went in. As near as I can recall he said he was over fourteen months in April. That would be seventeen now. Hell of a long time to be away from a wife. I'm hurtin and it isn't five months yet.
That's the ticket, sweetheart. Just keep on thinking of us as all right. We will be even though there may be times when you don't hear for long periods.
I'm not a bit disappointed that most of the boys are going to Europe while I'm in the Islands. For some reason I always hoped to go into it on this side, if at all. Anyhow, I'm here so I better be satisfied with it.
You're a smart girl, honey. When I was belittling your pictures of the toes I didn't think about starting all over again. Could be any number of cycles before the last picture, couldn't there? Leave you to think of that. My how you've changed. I can remember times when one such performance was nearly too much trouble to bother with. "Get it over with". Remember? Don't let it bother you. I'm only teasing and anyhow, I loved it a lot then. I didn't know how much better it could be so I was satisfied. Don't you ever try that on me again. I know better now. That's a warning. I have to get my teasing in while I can. From the sound of your letters, you will probably be teasing me the same way soon. I'm not too sure of being able to keep up with you. I'll try like hell though. I'm loving you my passionate parcel of charms.
There. You always laugh at me when I say you look like a 20 year old and here you say you feel 19. Not very consistent, honey. You'll be able to keep up with me alright. I'm not worried about it at all.
I know you're taking it very well. Everyone says about the same as Betty told you. Didn't think you could do so well. You've grown into a brave, resourceful woman as well as a beautiful one. I'm proud of you. I love you.
I'm learning some new things too. I told you I had lost my waistline that you built up last fall, so my pants were loose in the waist. I've been altering them to fit a 31 or 32 instead of a 34 as they were built for. Some different than the 38 I came into the army with. Isn't it? Padding all gone. Watch out for the "ran into a door" feeling again. I also got the notion to build me a pillow. Got a bundle of rags today and I found a nice hunk of dress that made up into a swell pillow. It's filled mostly with the remains of silk panties. Damn. I wish they were full like they once were, but, on second thought, it would probably interfere with my routine of eight or nine hours sleep and that would never do. Couldn't stand it to loose sleep over anything like that. No. Not much. Couldn't stand to waste time sleeping would be more like it. Of course that is all based on the assumption that I'm talking about my "bubbles".
Night, wifey darling. I'm loving you more and more all the time.
Your hurtin lover
Norm.
Thurs. eve
Aug 17, 1944
My Darling;
Honey, I'm so mad tonight, I don't know if I can write a decent letter or not. Remember you asked if I couldn't make a bracelet like Tony sent May and I said I was working on a project of the sort then. I was making a ring from a florin [ 32 cent piece]. I had it all done and was going to send it so it would be a token on our anniversary. Some son-of-a-bitch stole it off my desk today. Didn't have much value but I spent a good many hours making it. It was rather cute, thin silver band with slightly flared top and I had cut and set a tiny heart on it. One fellow offered me three pounds for it, so it must have been ok. I'll try making another, but I don't think I'll be able to get it done in time. I'd have to mail it by a week from today. It makes me so damn mad I'd half kill the guy if I could catch him. I wanted to send you something. As I said, it wasn't worth much except as a token or keepsake. To me a ring is a good luck charm. When you accepted my ring it was the best piece of luck I ever had or expect to have again. The damn fool took that and never touched my billfold, watch,knives, or anything else. I hope he dies with a hard on. There, I feel a little better after crying on your shoulder. You're a big comfort, honey. I love you so much. I'll build another. Hope I can do as good a job this time. Anyhow, I tried to send you something.
I got a letter today, honey. Aug 2. Also got one from Jim. It was postmarked the 9th and marked "inter island". Took plenty long to cover that short distance, if your information is correct. That's only about 700 miles east and slightly south of here. As usual he doesn't say much in his letters. I'll answer your letter and then if I have room continue with the trip story.
Gosh, honey, I know your bridge parties were noisy and sometimes rather vulgar. I used to be in the basement once in a while, but I don't think they were quite a battle.
Rather a coincidence you write about Jim's letter and where he is and the same day I get a letter from him. His probability of getting home sounds good and I sure hope he does. He's been over here long enough, but from the dope I get on the rotation plan, at least in the army, it's very improbable he'll get home before the end of the war. Rotation plan sounds good but in action it's absolutely crazy. Jim has been in the service since Oct 42 but didn't go over until about the time I went in. As near as I can recall he said he was over fourteen months in April. That would be seventeen now. Hell of a long time to be away from a wife. I'm hurtin and it isn't five months yet.
That's the ticket, sweetheart. Just keep on thinking of us as all right. We will be even though there may be times when you don't hear for long periods.
I'm not a bit disappointed that most of the boys are going to Europe while I'm in the Islands. For some reason I always hoped to go into it on this side, if at all. Anyhow, I'm here so I better be satisfied with it.
You're a smart girl, honey. When I was belittling your pictures of the toes I didn't think about starting all over again. Could be any number of cycles before the last picture, couldn't there? Leave you to think of that. My how you've changed. I can remember times when one such performance was nearly too much trouble to bother with. "Get it over with". Remember? Don't let it bother you. I'm only teasing and anyhow, I loved it a lot then. I didn't know how much better it could be so I was satisfied. Don't you ever try that on me again. I know better now. That's a warning. I have to get my teasing in while I can. From the sound of your letters, you will probably be teasing me the same way soon. I'm not too sure of being able to keep up with you. I'll try like hell though. I'm loving you my passionate parcel of charms.
There. You always laugh at me when I say you look like a 20 year old and here you say you feel 19. Not very consistent, honey. You'll be able to keep up with me alright. I'm not worried about it at all.
I know you're taking it very well. Everyone says about the same as Betty told you. Didn't think you could do so well. You've grown into a brave, resourceful woman as well as a beautiful one. I'm proud of you. I love you.
I'm learning some new things too. I told you I had lost my waistline that you built up last fall, so my pants were loose in the waist. I've been altering them to fit a 31 or 32 instead of a 34 as they were built for. Some different than the 38 I came into the army with. Isn't it? Padding all gone. Watch out for the "ran into a door" feeling again. I also got the notion to build me a pillow. Got a bundle of rags today and I found a nice hunk of dress that made up into a swell pillow. It's filled mostly with the remains of silk panties. Damn. I wish they were full like they once were, but, on second thought, it would probably interfere with my routine of eight or nine hours sleep and that would never do. Couldn't stand it to loose sleep over anything like that. No. Not much. Couldn't stand to waste time sleeping would be more like it. Of course that is all based on the assumption that I'm talking about my "bubbles".
Night, wifey darling. I'm loving you more and more all the time.
Your hurtin lover
Norm.
Letter # 453 August 16, 1944
New Guinea
Wed. eve.
Aug 16, 1944
My perfect wife;
That is still the best description I can think of that takes in everything. Means you're beautiful, sweet, intelligent, faithful, generous, thoughtful, loving, and have a darn nice, luscious chassis to hold it all together. Slight bit chubby but that is more advantage than drawback. Gives bigger and better curves and a jimmy roll to pinch. Just what I want, sweetheart. Now you've recently discovered that you can live up to your looks too. Best loving ever came down the road. I love you Mummy. Wish you were coming down the road now.
Still having very dry weather here. Hasn't rained in nearly ten days now. Boy is it dusty. Thought I had seen dusty roads before but nothing ever like this. Every time a vehicle moves it stirs up a dust trail thick enough to cut and a mile long. Never very much breeze and it hangs like a blanket of smoke. Instead of being ordinary dust color, it's black as soot. Every time I play ball I come in looking like a Negro.
We had another game today. Easy one 13 - 2. Even I played a few innings. Our team has entered a league in this area and the first game is Sunday. Negro team. I'm afraid we are taking an awful big bite. Some of these teams are from big outfits and they play ball like the major leagues back home. We'll see.
I have another couple days work on the mess kitchen and I'll be ready to start something else. You can tell Franklin Elder that I have been entirely in charge of the construction with as many as twelve men, most of them buck Sergeants and even a staff or two. Most of them are damn poor help though. Ordinary routine they don't work, only see the work is done. I'll take the privates any day when it comes to working.
No letter again today. Gosh I'll have a nice bunch of them again when they do come. Be way behind in answering for a few days. I haven't anything more to say so I'll continue with the second installment of my trip. Hope you like to hear all about it. I know you were interested in the route. The extra comments are added attractions. If you don't like them you can always stop reading. You might miss an I love you or something along that line that seems to slip into whatever I'm writing about. I do love you and think of you all the time. Seems I don't do much for me anymore, it's always for us. You got me tied to your apron strings permanently and loving it. I always did like apron strings, pajama strings, and other strings. Remember? Later, hooks and means of unfastening became very enticing. Bad boy, ain't I?
Guess I ended the trip last night at Douglas, Arizona. This southern part of Arizona was a pleasant surprise to me. I know it had become a popular winter vacation spot and that irrigation had reclaimed a lot of what had once been only second rate range land, but some how or other, the very name Arizona is associated with semi desert. Some of it is. A continuation of New Mexico but as we approached Tuscon small patches of irrigation showed up as a green island in a sea of hilly wasteland. Then we came into the bog areas of irrigated land. Large sections of almost perfectly level land between low, barren mountain ranges were now as beautiful farms as you could ever see anywhere. Wide variety of crops too. Grains, cotton, rice, vegetables of all kinds, and fruit. It all looks so pretty. The contrast from the barren mountains which are always in sight in the distance and the green, growing valleys crisscrossed by the network of shinning irrigation ditches. Beautiful too.
On to Tuscon and one of our daily breaks to get off and stretch. Pretty little city. Well landscaped parks. Palms, flowers, and everything. U.S.O. there at the station tended by some Red Cross women. Coffee and doughnuts free. Then we stood around and looked things over. Of course most of the things we saw were the female of the species. Seemed to be an over abundance of them too. I'd have been willing to stay there a while. The boys were calling and whistling at them as usual. I didn't but I didn't keep my eyes shut by a long way. Some peaches. The efforts to attract attention were meeting with only moderate success so Charlie, the outfit's bugler, got out his trumpet and played a few numbers. He's real good and that did attract attention. A specially nice looking girl was passing and trying to appear unconscious of the admiring looks and sounds and carrying it off very well. She also had a red dress that didn't help any if she wanted to remain unseen. Charlie played "The Lady in Red" as she went past. That got her and she broke down, waved and gave us all a nice big smile. The boys all cheered.
Chandler. Resort town and very pretty. Almost as nice as the photo cards of places. Most of the architecture through all this borderland is Spanish. It sure is pretty set off by palms, flowers and trees. One fellow in our company had worked at Chandler a couple years. He says the winters are perfect. Only an occasional cold day and very little rain. Hot days in the summer and cool nights. Sounds attractive doesn't it? Saw my first orange groves, olive groves, and grapefruit orchards or whatever they are called. Very little difference in appearance between orange and olive trees to a stranger. For miles I sat with this fellow, he is T/4 Rickey, and guessed and was corrected until I could tell the difference.
Phoenix. The same as Tuscon, only larger. No girl in red either. You'd almost think I was girl crazy wouldn't you? I am, about you. I like to look at all the rest but none has ever had enough of what it takes to get more than a good looking over. I've got the best of the lot waiting for me back home, so why fool with second rate stuff. I'm spoiled. I love to be spoiled that way. I love you.
The southeast part of Calif is largely like New Mexico. Some spots of irrigated farming. Into the rail yards of Los Angeles to make our connection and pick up another engine for the long hard haul over the mountains. Didn't see very much of the city except the industrial part. What I did see was much the same as Frisco. Back home we think Akron is a hilly city. You should see these. Good thing they never have snow or ice or there'd be hell to pay. Roads so steep it takes low gear to climb them. Houses set on side hills, the fronts level with the ground and the basement entirely out of the ground in back. How would you like to mow lawns on a place like that?
Well honey, I guess we'll take a break at Los Angeles for tonight. More in the next installment. I wish we were really taking this trip, just you and I. Stopping for a break at L.A. or any place would be something to write home about. We'll have number five honeymoon someplace, only it will be number one in ecstasy and enjoyment. Night, bubbles, I'm loving you.
Your dreamer
Norm.
Wed. eve.
Aug 16, 1944
My perfect wife;
That is still the best description I can think of that takes in everything. Means you're beautiful, sweet, intelligent, faithful, generous, thoughtful, loving, and have a darn nice, luscious chassis to hold it all together. Slight bit chubby but that is more advantage than drawback. Gives bigger and better curves and a jimmy roll to pinch. Just what I want, sweetheart. Now you've recently discovered that you can live up to your looks too. Best loving ever came down the road. I love you Mummy. Wish you were coming down the road now.
Still having very dry weather here. Hasn't rained in nearly ten days now. Boy is it dusty. Thought I had seen dusty roads before but nothing ever like this. Every time a vehicle moves it stirs up a dust trail thick enough to cut and a mile long. Never very much breeze and it hangs like a blanket of smoke. Instead of being ordinary dust color, it's black as soot. Every time I play ball I come in looking like a Negro.
We had another game today. Easy one 13 - 2. Even I played a few innings. Our team has entered a league in this area and the first game is Sunday. Negro team. I'm afraid we are taking an awful big bite. Some of these teams are from big outfits and they play ball like the major leagues back home. We'll see.
I have another couple days work on the mess kitchen and I'll be ready to start something else. You can tell Franklin Elder that I have been entirely in charge of the construction with as many as twelve men, most of them buck Sergeants and even a staff or two. Most of them are damn poor help though. Ordinary routine they don't work, only see the work is done. I'll take the privates any day when it comes to working.
No letter again today. Gosh I'll have a nice bunch of them again when they do come. Be way behind in answering for a few days. I haven't anything more to say so I'll continue with the second installment of my trip. Hope you like to hear all about it. I know you were interested in the route. The extra comments are added attractions. If you don't like them you can always stop reading. You might miss an I love you or something along that line that seems to slip into whatever I'm writing about. I do love you and think of you all the time. Seems I don't do much for me anymore, it's always for us. You got me tied to your apron strings permanently and loving it. I always did like apron strings, pajama strings, and other strings. Remember? Later, hooks and means of unfastening became very enticing. Bad boy, ain't I?
Guess I ended the trip last night at Douglas, Arizona. This southern part of Arizona was a pleasant surprise to me. I know it had become a popular winter vacation spot and that irrigation had reclaimed a lot of what had once been only second rate range land, but some how or other, the very name Arizona is associated with semi desert. Some of it is. A continuation of New Mexico but as we approached Tuscon small patches of irrigation showed up as a green island in a sea of hilly wasteland. Then we came into the bog areas of irrigated land. Large sections of almost perfectly level land between low, barren mountain ranges were now as beautiful farms as you could ever see anywhere. Wide variety of crops too. Grains, cotton, rice, vegetables of all kinds, and fruit. It all looks so pretty. The contrast from the barren mountains which are always in sight in the distance and the green, growing valleys crisscrossed by the network of shinning irrigation ditches. Beautiful too.
On to Tuscon and one of our daily breaks to get off and stretch. Pretty little city. Well landscaped parks. Palms, flowers, and everything. U.S.O. there at the station tended by some Red Cross women. Coffee and doughnuts free. Then we stood around and looked things over. Of course most of the things we saw were the female of the species. Seemed to be an over abundance of them too. I'd have been willing to stay there a while. The boys were calling and whistling at them as usual. I didn't but I didn't keep my eyes shut by a long way. Some peaches. The efforts to attract attention were meeting with only moderate success so Charlie, the outfit's bugler, got out his trumpet and played a few numbers. He's real good and that did attract attention. A specially nice looking girl was passing and trying to appear unconscious of the admiring looks and sounds and carrying it off very well. She also had a red dress that didn't help any if she wanted to remain unseen. Charlie played "The Lady in Red" as she went past. That got her and she broke down, waved and gave us all a nice big smile. The boys all cheered.
Chandler. Resort town and very pretty. Almost as nice as the photo cards of places. Most of the architecture through all this borderland is Spanish. It sure is pretty set off by palms, flowers and trees. One fellow in our company had worked at Chandler a couple years. He says the winters are perfect. Only an occasional cold day and very little rain. Hot days in the summer and cool nights. Sounds attractive doesn't it? Saw my first orange groves, olive groves, and grapefruit orchards or whatever they are called. Very little difference in appearance between orange and olive trees to a stranger. For miles I sat with this fellow, he is T/4 Rickey, and guessed and was corrected until I could tell the difference.
Phoenix. The same as Tuscon, only larger. No girl in red either. You'd almost think I was girl crazy wouldn't you? I am, about you. I like to look at all the rest but none has ever had enough of what it takes to get more than a good looking over. I've got the best of the lot waiting for me back home, so why fool with second rate stuff. I'm spoiled. I love to be spoiled that way. I love you.
The southeast part of Calif is largely like New Mexico. Some spots of irrigated farming. Into the rail yards of Los Angeles to make our connection and pick up another engine for the long hard haul over the mountains. Didn't see very much of the city except the industrial part. What I did see was much the same as Frisco. Back home we think Akron is a hilly city. You should see these. Good thing they never have snow or ice or there'd be hell to pay. Roads so steep it takes low gear to climb them. Houses set on side hills, the fronts level with the ground and the basement entirely out of the ground in back. How would you like to mow lawns on a place like that?
Well honey, I guess we'll take a break at Los Angeles for tonight. More in the next installment. I wish we were really taking this trip, just you and I. Stopping for a break at L.A. or any place would be something to write home about. We'll have number five honeymoon someplace, only it will be number one in ecstasy and enjoyment. Night, bubbles, I'm loving you.
Your dreamer
Norm.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Letter # 452 August 15, 1944
New Guinea
Tues. eve.
Aug 15, 1944
Hi. Bouncing Bubbles;
How's my passionate parcel of pulchritude tonight? In good shape, I imagine, and probably almost ready to be passionate should the occasion arise. Don't wish you any hard luck but I hope it doesn't arise until I'm there to be the lucky one. I'd think it would be a lot harder for you to be absolutely true than for me. Temptation can't be very far away from you most of the time. Over here there is no temptation. By the time you get this letter it will be as long since we've been together as it has ever been and this time there is no hope for a furlough. Hard lines, but if you can take it as bravely as you are, I surely ought to be able to. Everyone that writes me says you are being so grand and keeping your spirits and - well just being your own swell self that I'm getting so proud of you, I'm almost busting. See, people are thinking of you too.
Mable Dulany wrote a very nice boost for you. John says he still can't see how you ever married a roughneck like me. I agree and often wonder how I was so lucky. I'm not going to be foolish enough to complain about my luck. I'm going to keep that break if there is any possible way to do it. The only way you'll ever get loose from me is to tell me you no longer want me. Even then, I'd be hard to convince. I'm in love with you and getting more and more so each day. You're my perfect wife.
Sweetheart, you must have a high estimate of my intelligence, to send me a poem like that. Hell of a lot of big and almost perfectly strange words. I can get the meaning though. First time I read it, I didn't think much of it, except the last verse. Then I read it again and the third time I began to get it. It's all right. That last verse, if it ever came true, would be the end of me. Very little left to live for. At the first sign of anything like that happening, I'm going to take my "bit of heaven" and go hide someplace in the bush with her. If I know my Babe, she'd go too. Nobody can do that to us for the older, wilder ways always. The wilder the better I say. You do too, by the sound of your letters. You backed up your talk before and I don't doubt you can again. Be any kind of wild thing you want to be, only don't scratch and be willing. Whoops! Round and round we go. Where we stop - we don't know yet. I hope never. I'm "hurtin". Loving and missing you so much, sweet and luscious.
No letters today and I don't have any to answer either. All caught up for the first time in a couple weeks. I'll take time now to tell you some things you wanted to know that I couldn't talk about until now. The time limit is up.
First, the trip from Polk to Stoneman. Left Polk at 6 P.M. the 8th of May. All army train. Pullman. Here is the route we covered. DeRidder, Lake Charles, Beaumont, Texas, San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston, Spofford, Del Rio, Comstock, Sanderson, El Paso, Columbus, New Mexico, Hachita, Douglas, Arizonia. Herford, Tuscon, Phoenix, Yuma, Calevico, Calif. Niland, Indio, Redlands, Los Angeles, San Bernadino, Mojavo, Bakersfield, Fresno, Mersed, Pittsberg. There, you can follow the trip on a map and see where we went. It was a very interesting trip, and I for one, never lost interest or wanted the trip to end.
Our own kitchen on the train, and were fed on paper plates and cups, so no dishes to wash. Three men to a double seat. Gebby, our first Sargent, and I shared one. Gebby and I had the lower berth. Always made me mad when it got dark and I could no longer see the country. It was very warm all during the trip until the last night. Damn near froze then. I'll get to that later.
Gebby and I slept with the windows open and it was very comfortable. Usually when we stopped at night the cessation of motion would wake me and I'd see all I could wherever we were. I know I missed a lot even then. We were on the train for four nights and only three days.
No more than left the state of Louisiana and the country changed for the better. The lower eastern part of Texas looks to be very rich crop land. Lots of small farms, vegetables and fruit. The pines stop almost as if they couldn't grow in Texas. From San Antonio west, the country changes again and gradually becomes semi arid range land. Fort Sam Houston and the famous Alamo of the days of Texas' birth.
Saw a lot of my old friends of Colorado days. Sage, mesquite, greasewood, prickly pear, prairie dogs, gophers, and hosts of others. Went past what must be one of the big ranches we hear of in Texas. I had noticed for miles that there was a high fence built with concrete posts and woven wire paralleling the tracks. Then we went past a big gate with a sign reading, Lazy R Ranch. Road leading back among the sage covered, rolling hills to an oasis of trees and green with glimpses of masonry buildings and red tile roofs. Then more miles of the same kind of fence. It finally right angled away from the tracks and disappeared over distant hills. It must be a mammoth number of acres. I'd guess we were well over half an hour passing it. Like to ride over it once. Not nearly as nice range land as Colorado. The grass is scarcer and the sage and mesquite bigger and thicker. Need to be an Indian scout to find cattle in that stuff. The prickly pear, those are flat leaved long thorn cactus, were in blossom. Big delicate yellow flowers. Lots of other wild flowers too. That was spring then.
On to Del Rio, border town. Curious mixture of Mexican and American. Neat, pretty Spanish type masonry homes, red tile roofs and then the poorer section. Not so pretty. Del Rio is the border town with the radio station. Remember the quack doctor that used to broadcast advice on any medical subject until the government finally hung one on him? Old Mexico is in sight from there. On to and over the big gorge cut by the Pecos River. It is supposed to be the 2nd highest bridge in the world. I know it's a long way down to the river. A house down near the river level looked like a doll house and people like dolls. Don't know the footage figures.
Sanderson and a brief stop and interesting diversion. Troop trains always attract, especially in small, out of the way places. A dozen or so Mexican or half breed girls, mostly young, sixteen or so, walked up and down the train flirting and talking with the boys. Weren't allowed to get off or I'm afraid we'd have lost some men. One girl was really a beauty. Dark, like a girl that spends all her time on the beach, jet black hair and eyes. Dressed in a plain red dress. On her it wasn't plain. She was built and plenty friendly too. I was on guard at one of the steps and they nearly needed a guard for me. If you weren't in my thoughts all the time, I'd have been a deserter.
Finally arrived in El Passo at 6 A.M.the 10th. Does that give you an idea of the size of Texas? Two nights and a day to cross it. Thirty four hours and it wasn't a slow train either. The last time I came home I made it in 29 hours.
El Passo is real pretty in places. One of the most attractive train stations I've ever seen. Creamy white masonry and red tile roof. Ask Louise. Looked good to me and I don't wonder they had a good time there.
Columbus, Hachita, and many other wide spots in the road are all typical arid country towns. Almost pass for ghost towns. Large percentage of the houses, if you can call them that, adobe mud brick construction. Lots of little half breed looking urchins and seedy looking people. Guess they don't have much to do at any time of year but fish and _____. Sounds rather attractive at that, only I'd leave the fishing out too. Oh for that vacation that's coming. I love you, sweetheart.
The mountains begin to show up from El Passo on. Not very big, but rugged, sand blasted humps of rock and sand with only a sparse covering of sage and grass. Very little grass. Barren, God forsaken land, but yet, it's grand. Seems to cast a spell of some sort. The immensity and nothingness attract where ordinary land doesn't. May be only the contrast but I don't think so. I had that feeling before when I lived in similar country. Oh hell. I can't explain it It'll just have to be one more on the list of things we hope to see and do together. I'll have to show you so you can understand what I mean. Remember the dream Gebby and I were dreaming one day? I wrote you about it. Wouldn't that be a swell way to spend the first part of our reuniting honeymoon together? Taking a nice long trip home together and showing you some of the things I'm talking about. Of course it would undoubtably interfere with other business but not too much. Nights are long and it might be a good thing to be otherwise occupied part of the time. Might not know when to quit and we don't want to wear out too quickly.
I guess the rest of the trip will have to be in the next installment This letter has about reached its' limit. Night my passionate parcel. I'm loving you.
Your wandering boy
Norm.
Tues. eve.
Aug 15, 1944
Hi. Bouncing Bubbles;
How's my passionate parcel of pulchritude tonight? In good shape, I imagine, and probably almost ready to be passionate should the occasion arise. Don't wish you any hard luck but I hope it doesn't arise until I'm there to be the lucky one. I'd think it would be a lot harder for you to be absolutely true than for me. Temptation can't be very far away from you most of the time. Over here there is no temptation. By the time you get this letter it will be as long since we've been together as it has ever been and this time there is no hope for a furlough. Hard lines, but if you can take it as bravely as you are, I surely ought to be able to. Everyone that writes me says you are being so grand and keeping your spirits and - well just being your own swell self that I'm getting so proud of you, I'm almost busting. See, people are thinking of you too.
Mable Dulany wrote a very nice boost for you. John says he still can't see how you ever married a roughneck like me. I agree and often wonder how I was so lucky. I'm not going to be foolish enough to complain about my luck. I'm going to keep that break if there is any possible way to do it. The only way you'll ever get loose from me is to tell me you no longer want me. Even then, I'd be hard to convince. I'm in love with you and getting more and more so each day. You're my perfect wife.
Sweetheart, you must have a high estimate of my intelligence, to send me a poem like that. Hell of a lot of big and almost perfectly strange words. I can get the meaning though. First time I read it, I didn't think much of it, except the last verse. Then I read it again and the third time I began to get it. It's all right. That last verse, if it ever came true, would be the end of me. Very little left to live for. At the first sign of anything like that happening, I'm going to take my "bit of heaven" and go hide someplace in the bush with her. If I know my Babe, she'd go too. Nobody can do that to us for the older, wilder ways always. The wilder the better I say. You do too, by the sound of your letters. You backed up your talk before and I don't doubt you can again. Be any kind of wild thing you want to be, only don't scratch and be willing. Whoops! Round and round we go. Where we stop - we don't know yet. I hope never. I'm "hurtin". Loving and missing you so much, sweet and luscious.
No letters today and I don't have any to answer either. All caught up for the first time in a couple weeks. I'll take time now to tell you some things you wanted to know that I couldn't talk about until now. The time limit is up.
First, the trip from Polk to Stoneman. Left Polk at 6 P.M. the 8th of May. All army train. Pullman. Here is the route we covered. DeRidder, Lake Charles, Beaumont, Texas, San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston, Spofford, Del Rio, Comstock, Sanderson, El Paso, Columbus, New Mexico, Hachita, Douglas, Arizonia. Herford, Tuscon, Phoenix, Yuma, Calevico, Calif. Niland, Indio, Redlands, Los Angeles, San Bernadino, Mojavo, Bakersfield, Fresno, Mersed, Pittsberg. There, you can follow the trip on a map and see where we went. It was a very interesting trip, and I for one, never lost interest or wanted the trip to end.
Our own kitchen on the train, and were fed on paper plates and cups, so no dishes to wash. Three men to a double seat. Gebby, our first Sargent, and I shared one. Gebby and I had the lower berth. Always made me mad when it got dark and I could no longer see the country. It was very warm all during the trip until the last night. Damn near froze then. I'll get to that later.
Gebby and I slept with the windows open and it was very comfortable. Usually when we stopped at night the cessation of motion would wake me and I'd see all I could wherever we were. I know I missed a lot even then. We were on the train for four nights and only three days.
No more than left the state of Louisiana and the country changed for the better. The lower eastern part of Texas looks to be very rich crop land. Lots of small farms, vegetables and fruit. The pines stop almost as if they couldn't grow in Texas. From San Antonio west, the country changes again and gradually becomes semi arid range land. Fort Sam Houston and the famous Alamo of the days of Texas' birth.
Saw a lot of my old friends of Colorado days. Sage, mesquite, greasewood, prickly pear, prairie dogs, gophers, and hosts of others. Went past what must be one of the big ranches we hear of in Texas. I had noticed for miles that there was a high fence built with concrete posts and woven wire paralleling the tracks. Then we went past a big gate with a sign reading, Lazy R Ranch. Road leading back among the sage covered, rolling hills to an oasis of trees and green with glimpses of masonry buildings and red tile roofs. Then more miles of the same kind of fence. It finally right angled away from the tracks and disappeared over distant hills. It must be a mammoth number of acres. I'd guess we were well over half an hour passing it. Like to ride over it once. Not nearly as nice range land as Colorado. The grass is scarcer and the sage and mesquite bigger and thicker. Need to be an Indian scout to find cattle in that stuff. The prickly pear, those are flat leaved long thorn cactus, were in blossom. Big delicate yellow flowers. Lots of other wild flowers too. That was spring then.
On to Del Rio, border town. Curious mixture of Mexican and American. Neat, pretty Spanish type masonry homes, red tile roofs and then the poorer section. Not so pretty. Del Rio is the border town with the radio station. Remember the quack doctor that used to broadcast advice on any medical subject until the government finally hung one on him? Old Mexico is in sight from there. On to and over the big gorge cut by the Pecos River. It is supposed to be the 2nd highest bridge in the world. I know it's a long way down to the river. A house down near the river level looked like a doll house and people like dolls. Don't know the footage figures.
Sanderson and a brief stop and interesting diversion. Troop trains always attract, especially in small, out of the way places. A dozen or so Mexican or half breed girls, mostly young, sixteen or so, walked up and down the train flirting and talking with the boys. Weren't allowed to get off or I'm afraid we'd have lost some men. One girl was really a beauty. Dark, like a girl that spends all her time on the beach, jet black hair and eyes. Dressed in a plain red dress. On her it wasn't plain. She was built and plenty friendly too. I was on guard at one of the steps and they nearly needed a guard for me. If you weren't in my thoughts all the time, I'd have been a deserter.
Finally arrived in El Passo at 6 A.M.the 10th. Does that give you an idea of the size of Texas? Two nights and a day to cross it. Thirty four hours and it wasn't a slow train either. The last time I came home I made it in 29 hours.
El Passo is real pretty in places. One of the most attractive train stations I've ever seen. Creamy white masonry and red tile roof. Ask Louise. Looked good to me and I don't wonder they had a good time there.
Columbus, Hachita, and many other wide spots in the road are all typical arid country towns. Almost pass for ghost towns. Large percentage of the houses, if you can call them that, adobe mud brick construction. Lots of little half breed looking urchins and seedy looking people. Guess they don't have much to do at any time of year but fish and _____. Sounds rather attractive at that, only I'd leave the fishing out too. Oh for that vacation that's coming. I love you, sweetheart.
The mountains begin to show up from El Passo on. Not very big, but rugged, sand blasted humps of rock and sand with only a sparse covering of sage and grass. Very little grass. Barren, God forsaken land, but yet, it's grand. Seems to cast a spell of some sort. The immensity and nothingness attract where ordinary land doesn't. May be only the contrast but I don't think so. I had that feeling before when I lived in similar country. Oh hell. I can't explain it It'll just have to be one more on the list of things we hope to see and do together. I'll have to show you so you can understand what I mean. Remember the dream Gebby and I were dreaming one day? I wrote you about it. Wouldn't that be a swell way to spend the first part of our reuniting honeymoon together? Taking a nice long trip home together and showing you some of the things I'm talking about. Of course it would undoubtably interfere with other business but not too much. Nights are long and it might be a good thing to be otherwise occupied part of the time. Might not know when to quit and we don't want to wear out too quickly.
I guess the rest of the trip will have to be in the next installment This letter has about reached its' limit. Night my passionate parcel. I'm loving you.
Your wandering boy
Norm.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)