June 20, 1943

Desert Training Center, California

June 20, 1943

10:30 A.M.

Darling Mark –

Hello Sweetheart!!! Here it is Sunday but you’d never know it out here. I’m just thinking of where I was last Sunday & comparing it with this desert! I just came back from taking a shower & shave. Am now sitting in my tent writing to you. A bunch of us guys are going swimming in the Colorado river sometime today.

I went to Mass this morning right in the middle of the desert – sand & cactus & sun included. I didn’t mind tho. It seemed pretty nice. It was 118 in our tents yesterday & 132 outside of them. I went to the U.S.O. show last nite. We’ve got a stage built out here in the desert too. It was pretty good. Frank McHugh as M.C. Akin Famerioff, Robert Armstrong – Joan Carol Dennison – whoever she is. Pretty cute trick tho. Some bags from NY & Hollywood.

Honey – we sure have some beautiful moons that come over these mountains; wish you were here. I never slept better in my life as I do out here. Used 2 blankets last nite. Honey – I’ll finish this letter when I come back from that swim. Maybe I’ll get a letter from you by that time. Bye now.

12:00 P.M. Hello Darling – I just got your letter – mercy I was glad to get it. It boosted my morale sky high honey. I really needed it too. Well honey – I’d better rush for show now. I’ll write more later – Bye now honey.

Well – I just finished chow. Ham - sweet potatoes - stewed tomatoes - lettuce & tomato salad – bread & butter – pineapple & cookies & lemonade. It wasn’t bad for out here.

The mail clerk just told us to leave – 9^th Arm’d Div – off of our return address – so you won’t have to write it on your letters now.

We’re just waiting to go swimming now. It’s about a 50 mile ride from what I hear.

You want In My Arms honey? I’d like to be in yours. I’m not sure of this but here’s what I know. In my arms – in my arms – aint’ I never going to get a girl in my arms. In my arms – in my arms – ain’t I never going to get a bundle of charms. Comes the dawn – I’ll be gone – I just gotta have a honey holding me tight! You can keep your knittin’ & purlin’ if I gotta go to Berlin. Give me a girl in my arms tonite! That’s all I know.

Well honey I guess I’d better mail this letter now – so still get out tonite.

It sure is hot here. You don’t notice you sweat here – it drys right away. If you got a shirt on you can tell it. I’m just sitting here in shorts.

8:45 P.M. Hello honey – we were called out suddenly & just got back at 8:00. We went to some lake about 50 miles away. It was big & beautiful & the water was green as ink. I don’t think I’d like to make the trip again tho. It was too long & hot.

Well honey – I’d better close now – I’m pretty tired. That swim was the most energy I used in a month. Goodnite honey. Answer soon.

All My Love

Johnny X O X

P.S. Leave out – 9^th Arm’d Div. & Desert Maneuvers on my address.

June 19, 1943

Desert Training Center, California

June 19, 1943

3:00 P.M.

Darling Mark –

Hello Sweetheart! How you was today? No letter from you yet – but I’m not giving up hopes. I guess it’ll take a little longer to get here than it did at Fort Riley.

Not much happening today. I was on detail for a couple of hours this morning but I didn’t work very hard. We had guns issued to us today – just something else to clean every time we turn around.

As usual – it’s hot as hell again today.

I’ve been made navigator for the 2^nd platoon today. I hope I can lead them to L.A. someday.

I’m just laying around this afternoon again – dreaming. Gosh honey – I miss you. Next week we start our problems. I guess they’ll be pretty rough. I hope the hell I don’t lose us on this desert someplace.

They’re having another stage show tonite – I guess I’ll take a chance on it. I couldn’t stand the last one.

Well honey I guess I’ll go take a shower & cool off for a couple of minutes.

Please answer soon honey. I’m always thinking of you. Bye now.

All My Love Johnny XOX

XXXXXXXX

OOOOOOOX

XXXXXXXO

June 3 - June 16, 1943: the l-o-n-g train trip

Desert Training Center, California

June 3, 1943

Sat. Eve.

(inside envelope flap)

Hello

Sweetheart!!

I MISS YOU Honey

LOVE – XOX X – a long one too!

ANSWER SOON

Darling Mark –

Hello Sweetheart!!! Honey – I was really glad to get your letter today. It was the first one since last Tues. I was on K.P. today & just got off at 7:00 P.M. Boy am I tired. That’s the most work I’ve done since I’ve been here. When I got your letter at noon tho – I didn’t care how much work I had to do. It was all I needed & it’s all I’ll be needing from now on honey – so write honey – write as often as you can.

Well – as far as I know, I’ve got tomorrow

Hear about the moron who felt so low, he got his face slapped! - oh nuts!

to rest up. I might go into Needles for a while – just to get away from here – cause there’s not a darn thing in there. One beer joint & it’s always so crowded, you’re lucky to get a drink. So you finally got my picture – huh? But I don’t see how it could be as good as you say! Too bad about Fairyland burning – but I never went there a great deal anyhow.

Sweetheart, I think I dream about you always. I keep wondering when I’ll be able to see you again & hold you in my arms. Boy I can almost feel it now.

Honey, I’d better sign off now, it’s getting a little dark & I’m tired as hell. I’ll dream about you. Bye now,

All My Love

Johnny

XXX

How ya was? Boy – what a dreary day. It rained like hell last nite.

We were supposed to leave at 1:30 this afternoon but now it’s postponed till 4:30 & then it’s not definite. I don’t like this waiting around & doing nothing. Now if you were here we’d probably leave in nothing flat! Honey, I miss you so much.

I won’t be able to mail this letter here – the first chance I get – I’ll drop it off somewhere.

As you see I’ve put a stamp on this letter & no return address. They might try & stop it if I didn’t – 9:15 P.M. – as you were honey. We can’t mail any letters along the way. It’s been 5 hours since we left camp and are now just pulling out of Topeka. I’m laying in my berth now trying to write – so bear with me if you have a tough time reading this. Manhattan was flooded & the water was over the tracks so we had a slow drag thru there. I’m wondering where we’ll be in the morning. I’ll keep writing this letter till I get to Cal. honey. This berth would be nice & cozy if you were along.

Gosh honey, I sure miss you & I’m getting farther away from you every minute – only in miles tho honey. I’ll close for tonite honey & continue in the morning. Good nite sweetheart. I’m thinking of you always. I hope I dream of you.

June 16, 7:30 A.M. – Morning sweetheart! Well we’re still in Kans. Breakfast is about ready. Train is kinda bumpy. I’ll write more after chow.

8:00 A.M. – We’re now in Colorado about 60 miles. Nothing but flat land & sagebrush. I’m going to quit now – I’m having a tough time of it – as yo can plainly see.

9:30 – We’re now in La Junta, Colo. We stopped for exercises. We’re going to pull out pretty soon so I’ll close again. Hope you can read this. Bye now.

11:20 – Here I am again honey. We’re now stopped at some town between the Rocky Mts. I don’t know the name of it but I’ll try & find out. I found it – Trinidad. We’re moving out sweetheart so I’d better close now. We’re getting ready for chow now too. We’re about 80 miles from La Junta. I just sent a kid after a pint of ice-cream. I hope gets back before we pull out. I'd hate to be stuck in this place. The kid got back but no ice-cream. We’re pulling out soon. Bye for now honey –

12:00 P.M. – We’re now going thru a 3 mile mountain tunnel.

1:00 P.M. – Hello darling we’re now in Raton N. Mexico Just another town stuck between these yar hills. There’s some kids selling candy & potato chips here. Prices are sky-high. Donuts 50 c dz.

4:30 – Hello again honey! We’re in Las Vegas N. Mex. now. We got out & took a walk around town for exercise. All these towns out here are mostly Mexican. We’re pulling out again honey. I haven’t seen any town yet I liked. The air is thin here – I have a hard time getting enough of it. I’ll write more later honey.

Hello honey. We’re now in Albuque N. Mex. It’s 9:45 P.M. We’ve been here since 9:30 & are still waiting. This is the first city that’s really nice.

I bought you a hat & pair of shoes from some Indian woman. Send them first chance I get. We’re moving out now honey so I guess I’ll get some shut-eye. About 700 miles along the road – Indians live in adobe (mud homes). Kinda quaint. Goodnite now darling.

Morning honey – we’re now pulling out of Flagstaff, Arizona. It’s 8:00 A.M. There a lot of Indians in this town too. Mostly mts. & hills covered with pine trees outside the city. Not much of a place – I’ll take K.C. It’s about time for breakfast honey so I’ll close again.

3:30 P.M. – Well here we are in Needles Cal. honey. They say it’s not very hot today – 105. It’s a pretty nice town – the streets are lined with palm trees. I’ll finish this letter when I get into camp honey. We got a little ways to go yet. Bye now.

Well, darling, here I am in camp. Ain’t much to say about it. Just desert & more desert & mountains. It looks like it’s going to be a pretty rugged life. I don’t think I’ll mind too much but we’re sure a heluva ways from nowhere. I’m going to miss you an awful lot honey! I was in heaven when I was with you. I can see now.

Honey – if hell is this hot I’m going to start being a good boy. If I had a brother in hell & one out here I’d get the one off the desert first.

Well honey I guess I’ll start closing now & get ready for chow. Write very soon honey. I miss you so. Goodnite now.

All My Love

Johnny

XXXXXXXX

OOOOOOOO

XXXXXXXX

XXXX

OOOOO

Desert Training Center

Johnny begins the long train trip from Fort Riley, Kansas to the Desert Training Center in Needles, California.

June 14, 1943 (later that same day)

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 14, 1943
3:00 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
SWEETHEART!!! X O X
I MISS YOU SO MUCH!
LOVE XXX WRITE SOON XXXX
X O X X O X



Darling Mark,
Hello Sweetheart!!!

I’M WRITING AGAIN – I JUST GOT A LETTER FROM YOU THIS NOON. The one you wrote at work. I t was a pretty long letter honey – that’s what I like.

There were about 20 of us that came in late this morning. We’re catching all the last minute details around here now. I don’t care what they do to me – it was worth being with you that much longer.

They had us loading the kitchen cars this morning. I gold-bricked most of the time tho. I took off at 2:00 & now I’m just laying on my bunk, writing to you. There’s a crap game going on at the foot of my bed – but I swore off.

We get our meals served to us in our seats on the way down. If you’re asleep – no eat. Today is our last day to get mail here – so if you wrote a letter today to me here I probably won’t get it till I get to Cal. -

Let me know when you get my picture – I ‘m going to call tonite & see if they mailed them yet – if they haven’t – I’ll go up & mail myself.

This waiting & doing nothing around here gets on my nerves. I won’t mind the details so much – they make the time go faster.

You told me not to be blue honey – so I won’t tell you I am.

Honey – I hated to say good-bye to you last nite. I knew then how much you mean to me honey. Oh – I miss you so much. I wish I could have taken you with me. You’d be nice to have around out on that desolate desert! Thanks again honey – for that prayer-book. I’ll always carry it with me & you’ll always be with me in my prayers.

Honey, I’d better start closing now. I guess I’ll probably see you in a couple of months – I hope.

Bye now – Darling. ANSWER SOON
XXXOX All My Love XOX
XXXXXXXOXXXXXX Johnny

June 14, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 14, 1943
6:30 A.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
SWEETHEART!
I MISS YOU!
XXXO
LOVE X WRITE SOON XOX



Darling Mark,
Hello Sweetheart!!!

How are you today. I got back in camp at 4:00 this morning & got up at 5:00. I’m not sleepy tho – but I’m sure thinking of you a lot.

I just finished packing my bags this morning. I didn’t think I had accumulated so much junk till I tried to get it all packed. I don’t think they’re going to do anything about us guys coming in late as long as we were here for reveille. I think he told us 12:00 just so we’d be sure to be here this morning.

Honey – I sure hated to leave you last nite. I wanted to tell you a lot of things but I guess I was kinda choked up.

Well sweetheart I’d better close & get ready to fall out. Please write soon darling!

All My Love XOX
XXXXXXX Johnnie
XXXXXOXOXOX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

June 11, 1943 (later that same day....)

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 11, 1943
7:30 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
SWEETHEART!
ANSWER SOON I MISS YOU
LOVE X O X HONEY! X O X



Darling Mark:
Hello Sweetheart!!

I did get a letter from you today. I’m so happy to get them honey – even if they are short.

Baby – did I have a soft day today. I got up at 6:00 ate breakfast – went back to sleep till 10:00 got up & ate dinner at 10:30. At 11:00 we fell out & the guys that didn’t fire before fired today. Six from our platoon had qualified in shooting so we went back & scrubbed the barracks! We finished that in an hour & the rest of the we layed around. I have to get up at 4:30 tomorrow morning & go to the target pits. We have to have all of our equipment packed by morning. There’s a rumor going around that we don’t leave till Tuesday now. If it’s true I’ll try & call you Monday nite.

I just came back from getting a G.I. haircut again. He really peeled me!

I wish I could have been with you on that picnic honey – but when I get back just you & me are going on a picnic by ourselves – I want you all to myself with no interruptions. Honey I miss you so much – if I ever get ahold of you again I’ll never let you go.

Well I’ve quit playing craps again, maybe I’ll learn someday.

It sure is hot & sticky here tonite. I guess Cec is (on) maneuvers – I haven’t heard from him for quite awhile. Gosh I miss that guy!

I feel half-naked with my hair cut this short.

Honey – I’m going to Riley again tomorrow to see about my pics. They’ve been in there 18 days now.

I’d better close honey – I have to write home & get to bed. 4:30 comes awful fast.

Please answer soon.
X O X All My Love X O X
XXXXX Johnny X O X
X X X X X X O X O X X X
P. S. 4 kisses per hug!

June 11, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 11, 1943
Fri. Morn.



(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
SWEETHEART!
I MISS YOU HONEY!
LOVE X O X ANSWER SOON
X X X X X O X O X X O X




Darling Mark,
Hello Sweetheart!!!

How you all? We didn’t have to get up till ten this morning – but I had a lot of things to do. I didn’t get a letter from you yesterday honey.

I went to Junction City last nite & seen “Bataan”. There wasn’t anything else stirring so we came back to camp. It’s a sure thing I’ll never miss Ks. Or Mo. But I’ll sure miss certain people that live here. Gee I thought a lot about you last nite. I had a dream of you & Lucy. I remember giving Lu. a “special” & did it get results!! Well honey I’d better close – I guess I’ll get a letter this afternoon – but whether I do or don’t I’ll write anyway. I miss you so much honey.

Answer soon. X O X
All My Love X O X
Johnny
X X X X X X
X X X X X X
O O O O O O
X X X X X X

(insert)
New Address Honey.
Pfc. John F. Jambrosic 37234941
“C” Co. 89th Ren. Bu.
9th Arm’d Div. A.P.O. 259
C/O Postmaster
Los Angeles, Calif.
(Desert Maneuvers)

June 9, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 9, 1943
9:00 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO SWEETHEART!
LOVE XOX
ANSWER SOON HONEY
O X X O X X O



Darling Mark,

Hello Sweetheart!!

Gee – I got two letters from you today. One you wrote Sun & Mon. I’ll know now if you don’t write – you got a good excuse. A three page letter too – honey you’re cooking with gas now. It sure made me feel good to get two long letters from you.

I went to Riley tonite to see about my pictures – but they weren’t back yet. She told me to come back Sat. – but after Friday we’re restricted to the camp area. I might be able to get away if I talk fast enough. Just in case I don’t – I told her to mail them for me.

I just came back from the show – I seen “China” – it was sure good.

I’m listening to Kay Kysen now.

It looks like it’ll rain again tonite – it has for the last 3 nites. Oh-oh the lights just went out – they’re still flickering – yep – it’s started to rain. I just heard a train going to K.C. – mercy! How I’d like to be on it. To be with you again honey would be glorious.

We didn’t do much today. This morning we had 1 hour drill – then it started raining. The rest of the morning we spent packing – I was already packed – so I washed out my lingerie.

This afternoon we had 1 hours hike & 1 hour of training films. We were supposed to practice sighting the rest of the day – but the guns are all packed. So we got off at 2:30. Oh! That’s the kind of day I like!

Honey – I’ll try & not write any more blue letters – but sometimes a guy gets so disgusted he has to tell someone. I’m a little blue tonite thinking how much I like to see you again & how much I miss you. But I’m reading your letters over & over & they make me feel better sweetheart! I do hope you write whenever you can darling! You’ll never know the feeling I get when I get a letter from you. Oh – it’s grand!

A rumor just went around that we have to get up at 4:00 tomorrow morning to eat breakfast. If it’s true – here’s one guy that’s going to miss breakfast.

Well honey it’s about time for lights out & since I’m already in bed I’d better start to “Roger out”.

Please answer soon sweetheart. I miss you so much !!!

If you can’t read this letter – I’ll send you the key to decipher it.

Goodnite now Darling,

All My Love
X O X Johnny X O X
X O X O X O
X O X O X O
X O X

June 8, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 8, 1943
6:30 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
SWEETHEART!
I MISS YOU WRITE SOON
LOVE X O X XOX XOX



Darling Mark!

Hello Sweetheart! I got your nice card today – but why no letter? You must be awful busy honey!

It rained like hell here last nite. It’s hotter than hell here now.

I just finished shaving & just laying around now. It’s so damn lonesome around here – wish you were here – I’d go to a show if I didn’t have to stand in line so long!

I was on the range today from 6 to 4. I was hit in the leg today by a ricochet shell – nothing serious tho.

I should write some more letters, but I think I’ll go get a few beers. It’s getting on my nerves around here.

Tell Lu. hello honey – for me.

Please write soon?
Bye now – sweetheart.
I miss you honey!

All My Love XOX
XXXXXXXXX Johnny
X O X O X O X

June 7, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 7, 1943
8:00 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
SWEETHEART!!
I MISS YOU!
P.A.S.
LOVE X O X



Darling Mark!
Hello Sweetheart! Here it is Monday & I haven’t any letter since Friday. I still have hopes tho.

I went to Riley to see about my pictures yesterday – but I won’t get them till Wednesday.

I spent a very dull week-end. I went to sleep at 9:00 last nite. I’m going to sleep early tonite too – I have to get up at 4:30 tomorrow morning to check scores on the range.

This morning – I was barracks guard. Just sat around on my dead butt. It was the life.

It won’t be long honey & I’ll be saying good-bye to Ks. I think we’re pulling out Sunday afternoon sometime – between you & me.

Honey – I’m sure going to miss you an awful lot.

I haven’t much to talk about honey – just thinking a lot.
Please answer Soon?

I miss you -------------------

All My Love XOX
XXXXXXX Johnny X
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

November 11

In honor of Veterans Day, I wish to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to everyone who has served in our Armed Forces and helped to preserve our freedom and our way of life in the greatest country ever. I appreciate your sacrifice!

June 6, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 7, 1943
8:00 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
SWEETHEART!!
I MISS YOU!
P.A.S.
LOVE X O X



Darling Mark!
Hello Sweetheart! Here it is Monday & I haven’t any letter since Friday. I still have hopes tho.

I went to Riley to see about my pictures yesterday – but I won’t get them till Wednesday.

I spent a very dull week-end. I went to sleep at 9:00 last nite. I’m going to sleep early tonite too – I have to get up at 4:30 tomorrow morning to check scores on the range.

This morning – I was barracks guard. Just sat around on my dead butt. It was the life.

It won’t be long honey & I’ll be saying good-bye to Ks. I think we’re pulling out Sunday afternoon sometime – between you & me.

Honey – I’m sure going to miss you an awful lot.

I haven’t much to talk about honey – just thinking a lot.
Please answer Soon?

I miss you -------------------

All My Love XOX
XXXXXXX Johnny X
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

June 6, 943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 6, 1943
Sun. 8:30

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU MORE THAN I CAN SAY – HONEY.
LOVE
GUM CHUM? WRITE SOON




Darling Mark!
Hello Honey. Glory – how I miss you. I just came back from Riley to get my pictures but they won’t be ready till about Wed. They must be trying to retouch them to resemble something living.

I tried to call you last nite & was waiting for them to call me back – so I went to confession. They said they called while I was gone.

I tried again tonite & I must have been gone or they called back when another guy was using the phone. It’s hard as hell to get a call out from here.

I’m feeling pretty low & blue tonite – I had counted so much on seeing you this week-end.

I don’t know whether I got a letter from you today or not – the mail-man is on a pass.

Oh – honey how I’d like to be with you again. I miss you sooo much.

Honey I’m already in bed so I’ll close now & get some much needed sleep. I just got off guard at 5:30. Please answer soon Sweetheart.

All My Love
Johnny
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXOX

June 5, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 5, 1943
10:00 A.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU!
ANSWER SOON
LOVE X O X



Darling Mark!

Hello Sweetheart: -
12:30. I was called out suddenly. But I’m back again mad as hell! I’ve just been placed on guard for tonite. OH Damn. I feel like tearing this place apart! I won’t be able to come in this week-end sweetheart! I guess this would be the last chance I’d get to see you again. OH honey am I blue. I was counting so much on seeing you again. Mercy!!!

So you finally went horseback riding eh? How’s your fannie feel?

Honey – I’ve got to shower & get ready for guard mount now so I’d better close & get agoin’. I’ll try & call you tonite honey. If I can pay a guy to take my guard tonite I’ll give him his own price.

Please answer soon honey. I miss you an awful lot & always thinking of you. Bye now.

XXXXXXXXXXXXX
XOX All My Love
Johnny
P.S. Someone borrowed my pen & forgot to return – so pencil.

June 4, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 4, 1943
Fri. 8:20 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
HELLO
SWEETHEART!
I MISS YOU!
LOVE X WRITE SOON



Darling Mark,

Hello Sweetheart!!

I just got off duty & out of a crap game.

I didn’t get a letter from you today – honey – I couldn’t help being disappointed. I’m writing anyway cause I’m thinking of you an awful lot.

I slept till 9:30 this morning. It sure felt good. I missed breakfast but we ate dinner at 11:00. We didn’t start the day till 12:30. I had a soft morning for once.

We were out on the range firing the carbines till 7:30. I won $13 & 2 cartons of cigarettes for having the highest score in my platoon – 168 out of 200. I should have had more – 2 of my rounds didn’t fire.

It sure turned cold here this morning. I thought winter was coming again but it warmed up this afternoon.

I’m breaking in a new pair of G.I.’s & my feet are really sore – corns, blisters & bunions.

I was going to quit smoking but I guess I’ll have to smoke those 2 cartons.

Say – honey what’s the idea dating your letter May 1? Kinda behind in time aren’t you? You must be a pretty busy gal!

I don’t know what train or bus I’ll catch tomorrow nite – if I get a chance to catch any.

Honey – I’ve got to go now. I have to shave, shower & do some laundry. We have to do our own laundry now.

I’m going to saddle soap these shoes too & see if I can soften them up any.

Gee – I miss you honey!!! I hope I get to see you again before I leave. If I don’t I want to make a date about 6 months from now – OKAY?

Well Sweetheart I’d better close for tonite. I hope I get a letter from you tomorrow.

Goodnite Honey!
Please answer soon.

All My Love XOX
Johnny X
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXOOOXXOXXOX

June 3, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 3, 1943
Thurs. Eve.

Darling Mark!

Hello Sweetheart! I’m going to answer your letter now. I’m going to Riley & see if my pictures are back yet.

We had a compass problem this evening & didn’t get off till 6:30. I was going to mass & confession but I was too late.

We have to get up at 5:30 tomorrow but our day doesn’t start till 10:00. We have to work till 8:00. We have the same schedule for Sat., so I won’t be able to catch a train till 9:20 & won’t get to K.C. till around 1:00 A.M. Sun. morn. Sat. we fire the carbine rifle for record. The one’s that make the lowest scores will do K.P. on the train when we move out. I sure hope I do some fancy shootin’.

Today we had village fighting. We practiced capturing a simulated German village. It was a lot of fun. I was sure blasting hell out of everything I could. There’s only 1 guy been killed & 1 wounded out there.

This afternoon we seen another film on German occupations of small countries. There titled – “Why We Fight!” & Sweetheart they’d make anybody fighting mad! They’re actual films & they’re horrible! Civilians never get to see these films.

Honey I hope I get to see you this week-end. I’m coming in if I only have a couple of hours home. If I miss that 9:30 train I’ll catch a later one – even if I don’t get in till Sun. morning.

Sweetheart I miss you more every day! I think about you constantly.

Well honey I guess I’ll be getting’ to Riley before it’s too late. Answer soon sweetheart. I hoping – but I guess I won’t get a letter tomorrow – the way you talk in your letter!

Bye again Honey
All My Love X O X
I MISS YOU!! Johnny X

XXXXXXXXOOXOXX

June 2, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
June 2, 1943
Wed. 5:30

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU
LOVE XX WRITE SOON



Darling Mark!

Hello Sweetheart! I’m just writing a short note to tell you how much I miss you & am thinking of you. I’m going to a USO show tonight – they’re having “Hellzapoppin” on the stage.

I didn’t get a letter today but I expect one tomorrow.

This afternoon we had a 2 hr. hike. Boy was it hot & still is. The wind is blowing like hell!

Well – honey I’m going to close & get this in tonight’s mail.

I miss you very much honey – hope I get to see you again soon. Please answer soon honey!

Bye now.

All My Love
Johnny

X X X X
X O X
O X O
X X

May 26, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 26, 1943
Wed. Eve.



Darling Mark!

I got your note today so I’ll answer it now.

We had a test today on maps & if we flunked it we don’t get a 3 day pass, but I’m pretty sure I passed it, so I’ll see you about Friday nite.

Honey – this letter is going to be short too. I’m trying to make a show tonite & get this in tonite’s mail besides. I haven’t been to a show for a month.

I finally got to Riley & got my proofs. The pictures won’t be ready for about 10 days to two weeks.

We have to go thru an infiltration cause tomorrow with live ammunition firing 30 in. over our heads. If I don’t get my B-T too high I’ll be seeing you.

Well Honey I’d better close & git agoin if I want to make that show. Answer Soon Sweetheart!

All My Love
XXXXXXXOOX
Johnny X


What’s better than being deep in the heart of Texas?

May 24, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 24, 1943
Mon. 1:00 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU LOVE
X X X X X




Darling Mark,

Hello Sweetheart! I got your letter this morning when I woke up. I went to sleep as soon as I got on the train. I wish I had of stayed an hour longer with you last nite. I missed that 11:00 train by 5 min. So I was there early enough to get a seat on the 11:55. I got 1-1/2 hours sleep this morning. All morning – a few of us were loading vehicles on flat-cars. The rest of the co. is out on the pistol range & some are at the motor-pool. I’m going to stay right here on my bunk until they find me. If they want me – they know where to find me – (and they probably will)

I feel like just laying down & sleep for about a week.

Honey – I’m going to close for while & try to get in a nap. I’m going to Riley tonite to see the proofs of my pictures! Bye for now honey!


5:00 P.M.
Here I am again honey. I did get to stay in all afternoon. I was called out once but turned around & came back. I’ve just finished shaving & now I guess I’ll go get a haircut before they tell me to, & get K.P. besides.

It rained like Betty Hell here this afternoon – but it looks like it will clear up.

I hope I get my 3 day pass this week or next.

I haven’t much more to say – I don’t do very much around here anymore – but try & keep out of sight. The less I do the less I want to do. I think I’m getting lazy honey. But I have a feeling some day I’ll have plenty to do. Oh unhappy day!

I’d better close now honey & get movin to Riley.

The radio is playing “I’m Goin Back to Where I Come From” remember?

Well Bye again honey. I miss you too much!

Please Answer Soon!

All My Love
Johnny
X X OOO X X
O XXXOO

May 20, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 20, 1943
Thurs. Eve.
4:45 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU!
LOVE XXXX WRITE SOON! X




Darling Mark:

Hello Sweetheart. I got your letter today. How happy they make me.

I’m waiting for chow – it goes at 5:00 & at 5:30 I have to report to the guard house. I’m on guard tonite from 6-8 & 12-2 & all day tomorrow.

This morning we had maintenance of vehicles & I gold-bricked most of the morning. This afternoon I spent getting ready for guard mount. I was supposed to get my proofs today – but I guess I’ll have to wait till Sat. I’ve got to go to chow now – honey – so I’ll finish this sometime later. Bye now.

8:05 – Oh! Am I weary & tired. I can get a little rest now till midnite. I’m going to have a tough time getting any sleep till 10:00. There’s too much noise & activity going on around here.

Honey I’d better close & get some rest. I’ll write again tomorrow. Goodnite now. I miss ya like everything! Please answer soon.

All My Love,
Johnny
XXXXXOXX

May 19, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 19, 1943
8:30 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
LOVE X X X X I MISS YOU EXTRA




Darling Mark:

I hope you don’t mind if I write to you everyday – but I think about you so much I have to.

We’ve just finished having an inspection of our equipment. Friday we have another one.

I sure missed your letter today honey!

Another rough day & I’m already in bed ready to sleep as soon as I finish this letter.

It’s raining again tonite!! Damn - wish it would stop.

I’m on guard tomorrow & Friday & I don’t feel like I’d want to walk in the rain.

Honey – we might get a 3-day pass next week before we leave. I’m not sure but, I’m sure praying.

Didn’t do much today. This morning we had lectures & this afternoon had a class on the pistol, sub-tommy & carbine rifle. Very boring – I could take them apart blindfolded – but I guess they didn’t have anything else for us to do.

Well – honey close to the bottom so – I’d better close.

Goodnite now. Please answer soon.

Love
Johnny

XXOXXXXXXXXXX

May 18, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 18, 1943

(inside flap:
Hello
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU EVER SOMUCH!
LOVE x xxx ooo)




Darling Mark:

I’m dreaming of you again – I mean yet!

I got your letter this evening – I hoped for it – but didn’t expect it till tomorrow.

I’ve just finished taking a shower & am now ready for bed as soon as I finish this letter. These 12 hr. days don’t agree with me. Today we had a problem on dead-reckoning with compasses. We walked over more hills & muddy roads than I want to see again. This evening we cleaned all of our guns & vehicles ready to be shipped. The cars are all dead-lined so I guess we’ll be doing a lot of foot-work till we leave.

It’s raining again tonite – I wish the hell it would stop.

I fooled you sweetheart – I did have my pictures taken. HUH? You won’t have to blow your top!

Honey – I don’t know what I’m going to do – not to be able to see you every week. I miss you so terribly much!

I’m still sorry about last nite honey – but I didn’t drink much – it just made me sick. I guess I can’t take it. I’m sure it won’t happen again.

Honey I’m closing for tonite – I’ve just got to get some sleep.

Goodnite darling!
Please answer soon.

All My Love
Johnny
*XXXXXXXX*XXXXOOOOOOOX

May 17, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 17, 1943
Mon. Eve. 8:30

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU! XXX LOVE XX




Darling Mark:

Hello Sweetheart how ya doing? I got back to camp this morning at 12:00, and mercy me we had to get up at 4:30. We also had to work till 6:00 tonite.

When I got off the train it was raining like hell again – but I didn’t mind it as long as I had you on my mind.

This afternoon we took a hike in the rain with full field pack. My poor feet just can’t take it! I’m dead tired but I can still write to you.

As soon as we were off duty – I shaved & dressed & went to Riley & had – now relax – my pictures taken! No fooling honey – I even missed chow so I could. I’ve just come back from there. They won’t be ready for at least 2 weeks – so I guess I’ll have to have them mail it to you.

It’s still dark & cloudy out – I guess it’ll rain again tomorrow.

I was supposed to operate a radio today on a problem but the car that my radio was in, was dead lined & couldn’t go out. So I ended up on that damn hike. I guess I’ll have to tell them who I am around here.

I sure did miss not getting a letter from you today honey!

Honey – I’m still sorry about last Sat. nite. I wish you had of clubbed me with a chair or something! Maybe I would have woke up. I guess I can’t take it anymore.

I guess I oughtta get some long letters from you this week – being as how you’re on a vacation – wish I could be with you but I guess it will still be quite some time before I see you again.

Today we were issued mosquito? head nets & dust respirators.

Wednesday we start wearing our summer khaki’s.

If we don’t work this week-end & if I’m not on detail, & if we’re still here & if we’re not restricted to camp – I’m going to try & get a 3-day pass, if I can & if I do – I’m going to hold you every minute of the time.

Some G.I. got married over the weekend & just gave me a cigar – I’m debating whether or not to smoke it. I’ll probably end up like I was Sat. & I never want to feel like that again.

Sweetheart I guess I’ll close for tonite & start dreaming of you. Write & let me know what you do this week if it’s not too personal & if you want to. Honey – I’m going to miss you so much.

Goodnite honey – please write soon.

All My Love
Johnny
XXXXXXXXXXOXOOOOOXOX

More Than Ever lyrics

More Than Ever

Do I
Do I love you baby
Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah
More than ever
I remember all I wanted in a lover
Was just a pretty face but all I found were hearts of stone
Spent a lifetime
On the road to nowhere till I found my way back home
You gave me shelter from the cold and the rain - whoa and
Now I know pleasure where
There used to be pain

Do I
Do I love you baby
Yeah yeah yeah yeah
More than ever
Do I do I need you baby
Yeah yeah yeah yeah
More than ever
You saved me with warmth and understanding
You're everything that I could ever want
And after so long
We're standing here together
And forever we'll live on
In time most other loves just wither and fade
I tell ya
Ours just gets stronger each and every day
Do I
Do I love you baby, baby
Yeah yeah yeah yeah
More than ever
Do I do I need you baby
Yeah yeah yeah yeah
More than ever
Hey come over here for a second
I got something I wanna say
Even though I may not think to tell you every day
Oooh I'm so happy you're still mine
Oh, you came along with a love so sweet, took me by surprise
Knocked me off my feet
You still send shivers up and down my spine
Oh I gotta be the luckiest man alive

Do I
Do I love you baby
Yeah yeah yeah yeah
More than ever
Do I do I need you baby
Yeah yeah yeah yeah
More than ever
You saved me with warmth and understanding
You're everything that I could ever want
And after so long
We're standing here together
And forever we'll live on
In time most other loves just wither and fade
I tell ya
Ours just gets stronger each and every day
Do I
Do I love you baby, baby
Yeah yeah yeah yeah
More than ever
Do I do I need you baby
Yeah yeah yeah yeah
More than ever
Hey come over here for a second
I got something I wanna say
Even though I may not think to tell you every day
Oooh I'm so happy you're still mine
Oh, you came along with a love so sweet, took me by surprise
Knocked me off my feet
You still send shivers up and down my spine
Oh I gotta be the luckiest man alive

May 14, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 14, 1943
Fri. Eve.

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU I LOVE YOU
ANSWER SOON!




Darling Mark:

Just finished reading your letter again! I’m so tired I didn’t know whether to write tonite or not. But I don’t think I’m that tired. I also got a letter from Lu today. Boy we put in a 13 hr. day again today! All I did was sit in an amphib with a radio but I even got tired doing nothing. I got off the alert tonite & tomorrow I don’t know how I did & I’m not trying to find out. I’m not on guard this week-end so I guess I’ll come to K.C. & get tight as hell – because I think it’ll be my last!

It’s been cloudy all day & now its raining like hell – I hope it clears up over the week-end.

Frank Moon is singing “More Than Ever” now. I could just write that song to you & you’d know what I want to say. Do you know it?

Honey – I’m going to have some pictures taken as soon as I get time. Maybe this week-end!

Honey – I’m sorry I backed away from that kiss. I wish I had it now. But I just felt kinda mean.

Honey – I guess I’ll close for tonite – I get to thinking about you & can’t write.

Answer soon Sweetheart – I miss you.

Goodnite honey.
Love
Johnny
X O X X X O

May 13, 1943 8:15 AM

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 13, 1943
8:15 A.M.

Darling Mark,

Hello Sweetheart!!
How I miss you – I can’t say. I thought about you all day. I hope I get to see you next week-end.

I got in camp at 4:00 this morning & got up at 5:30. I walked around half way sleeping & day dreaming today. We had a lecture this morning & I kept going to sleep every 5 minutes. It’s really hell to have to fight to stay awake.

I’ve just finished taking a shower & shaving & am now laying on my bunk ready for some sleep – as soon as I write home.

Mercy! It was sure hot today! What time did you get up today – or did you?

Baby – how I’d like to have you in my arms tonight! Damn honey – I write one line, then stop & think about you for an hour it seems.

Some guy just offered me 25 c for my thoughts, but I wanted $5 or nothing. He wasn’t that curious. I didn’t want to sell them anyway.

At the station last nite I bought a round-trip to Riley – it was only 15 c more than a one way. Well – as soon I sat down on the train – I had the ticket in my hand – I fell asleep. The next time I woke up we were in Topeka & I still have my round-trip. I went back to sleep & woke up in camp & I still had the round-trip & I still have it. I don’t know how they missed me, but I wasn’t curious to find out. I get to use it this week-end.

This afternoon I fell asleep after chow & when I woke up I was the only one in the barracks. It took me half-hour to find my platoon & another hour explaining where I had been. He must have believed the line I gave him – I haven’t heard anything – yet!

Honey – I’m going to sign off now. I gotta write home & hit the hay.

I could really go for a “charge” now.

Goodnite Honey – Please answer soon.
All My Love
Johnny
XXXO OXXX
P.S. 8:15 – See what I mean? XOX

May 13, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 13, 1943
8:15 A.M.

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
LOVE! I MISS YOU




Darling Mark:

Hello – sweetheart. I’ve got a little time off this morning so I thought I’d start a letter. We got all ready to go on a problem this morning & now we don’t go out till this afternoon. Just part of the co. went out & we have to wait till they set up their defensive positions. We’re also going to do some combat firing this afternoon. I’m going to have it easy again today. I’m operating a telephone radio in a jeep.

It’s still cloudy & dreary out today. I wish to hell it would stay warm awhile.

I went to sleep last nite around 9:00 & I’m still sleepy & tired. I don’t know why – I haven’t done anything all week.

Oh-oh – we’re being called out now for a little lecture. Bye now.




Well, I’m back again. A Lt. gave us the dope about this afternoon’s firing. We’re firing live ammunition. I hope a certain Lt. gets in front of me.

I just came back from firing the 60 M.M. mortar. Am now just waiting for chow call. I think I’ll take a little nap now. Kinda sleepy.



9:00 P.M.
Hello again honey – I just finished shaving & taking shower & am now getting ready for some good ole sleep. I was going to have some pictures taken tonite but its’ too late. We didn’t get in till 7:00 this evening. We’re on the alert again tomorrow & Sat. so I won’t get to take them then. I guess I’ll have to wait till next week. But I promise I’ll send you one as soon as possible.

Thanks to you & Lu for the chocolates. They were really good while they lasted. Boy! I got a lot of pals. I also got a letter from you – I must rate! You’re improving honey – 4 pages – but I’d be disappointed if I didn’t. I got some kisses for you too. I got off on the wrong track. I guess I shouldn’t talk about 4 pages. NUTS – honey for the past 15 minutes I’ve been in a stupor thinking about you.

That’s what takes me so long to write a letter – I stop about every other line & dream of you. Here I go again!

I got a letter from Cec. today – I’m going to write him after I finish this & then I’m going to sleep – I hope I dream of you.

How did you know I took up pipe smoking? I never said anything about it – did I?

Well honey I’d better close for tonite. It’s getting late. 9:45. Write soon sweetheart – my day isn’t perfect without a letter form you! Goodnite now – honey.

All My Love
Johnny
XOX
XXXXXXXOOOXXX

May 11, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 11, 1943
7:30 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
LOVE!

X O X Write Soon



Darling Mark:

Thanks to you & Lu for the card! I wish I could have shown you a better time. It’s nice out here again tonite – these are the kind of evenings I wish I was with you.

We’re on the alert again from noon today till tomorrow noon & then from Friday noon till Sat. noon. I think we’ll get off at noon Sat. – but the 1st Sargeant will probably have me on guard. Out in the field yesterday, he asked me if I got everything straightened out at the hospital. I assured him I did.

This morning I was over at Div. Hq’s. for an interview for Army Specialized Training School. This afternoon I helped clean the grease off of some new Tommy guns that came in.

I’m kinda glad we’re on the alert tonight. I’ll have a chance to get some sleep. Last nite a kid took me to Fort Riley to see “Lady of Burlesque”! Mercy!!

I didn’t do much today but for some reason I’m kinda tired. I can’t find a comfortable way to lay on this bunk & write.

As you see I’m sending some snaps I took at Lake Nemaha.

What are you doing tonight, Honey? Taking care of the kids? Ha! Or drunk again?

I feel like getting tanked up tonite – but in the first place – I can’t go to the P.X. & second I’d likely feel like hell tomorrow.

I guess- I better get a letter from you tomorrow. Bye for now honey. Write soon!

All My Love
Johnny
XXXXXXXXXX XXO

May 10, 1943

Written on a radio operator's "MESSAGE" pad

Fort Riley, Kansas

____________________________________________________

Time Field: 9:15 Msg Cen No. How Sent

____________________________________________________
URGENT MESSAGE

Classification (SUBMIT TO MESSAGE CENTER IN DUPLICATE)

No.:_____________________________________ Date: May 10, 1943



To: Darling Mark:

Did you and Lu get home okay Sun. nite or Monday morning? I wish I could have shown you a better time while you were here. Just seeing you was good enough for me.

You’re probably “wondering” why I’m writing on this message sheet huh? We’re out on a problem this morning & I’m operating a radio. It’s raining like hell here yet. We finally got sense enough to put the top on – after we got wet. I’ve got it pretty soft – just sitting here by the radio. Kinda cozy – wish you were here. We’re on the defense against “A” co. I might get this written between calls on the radio.

It’ll probably be too late when I get in tonight to write on stationery – but if I have a letter from you I’ll stay up & write.
Nothing has happened as yet to me – but I’ll probably hear something tonite. I don’t care what happens – it was worth it.

Honey – I better close for now. This radio is keeping me pretty busy all of a sudden.
Write soon – Honey – I miss you. Pretty tired today? I’ll bet! Do you still “wonder” Sweetheart?

All My Love
Johnny

XXXOXXXXX
XXXXXXO

May 7, 1943, 9:00 PM

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 7, 1943
Friday, 9:00 P.M.

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
LOVE!

XXXXXXOOOXX Write Soon




Darling Mark:

I received your letter this afternoon – you don’t know how happy I am to get them. I just came back from sending you another telegram. I sent one earlier this evening telling you not to come, because we were on the alert & couldn’t leave the area. Then I got a telegram from Lu. saying you were coming up. So – I went to the first Sargeant & explained things to him with a sad look on my face. He told me to tell you to come on up & he’d find a way to let me go. I don’t know why I’m telling you this now cause I’ll be telling you Sat. nite personally. I’ll probably get into a little trouble – but it’ll be worth it.

It rained all day here & we just layed around the barracks waiting to be called for physicals. We finally got examined about 7:00 P.M.

I’ll bet I find a couple of gray hairs in my head by morning. I don’t know what to write about now honey. I’m so confused & worrying how things will come out Sat. I can’t think straight.

There’s a big poker game going on in the middle of the floor – it’s awful tempting to get into. I don’t think I will tho, it’s about time for lights out. I’d better get some sleep tonite if I can.

Well – honey I’ll close for tonite & hope & pray I get out of here tomorrow. I’ll see you in Manhattan Sat. eve.

So my letters are short & sweet eh? I wouldn’t say yours were so long, altho they are sweet too.

Tell Lu. she had better write soon or I’ll be mad on her. Oh-oh here comes C.O. to turn out the lights I’d better close quick like.

Goodnite honey. I’ll be seein you. Write soon.

All my Love
Johnny

XXXXOXXXOXXoX

May 7, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 7, 1943
Friday, 9:00 A.M.

(inside envelope flap)
Hello
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU

Love XXXXXXOOOXX




Darling Mark:

Well, babe it’s happened again. I’m sending you a telegram tonite to cancel your trip. We’ve just been placed on the alert from Sat. noon till Sunday noon. We’re not allowed to leave the co. area during that time, & are subject to call any hour of the day or nite. The way it’s worked around here – one co. of the 9th Div. is on the alert for a week, and out of 15,000 men our co. had to pull it this week.

I’m sorry,, honey, very sorry – but it can’t be helped. I tried to talk my way out of it for the week-end but no use. “This is the Army Mr. Jambrosic”

I was happy all week to think you were coming up – but now I’m so disgusted & blue I feel like getting tanked up & go A.W.O.L. That wouldn’t do much good – I’d just be in more of a mess.

I’m remembering what you said- if I canceled your trip this time, & I’m going nuts worrying.

I hope you don’t get too mad sweetheart. Write soon, darling please? Bye now.

All my Love

Johnny
XXXXXXXXXOOXOXXXOX

May 7, 1943 WESTERN UNION TELEGRAM

WESTERN UNION TELEGRAM

1943 MAY 7 PM 7 14

KN209 10=FS CAMPFUNSTON KANS 7 614P 23
MISS MARGARET MINGHINI=
1606 WEST XX KSC=

CANCEL TRIP WEVE BEEN PLACED ON GUARD THIS WEEKEND LOVE=
JOHNNY

May 5, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 5, 1943
7:45 P.M.



Darling Mark:

I expected your letter today & got it. I’d have sure been a disappointed guy if I hadn’t.

I was thru with guard duty today at 4:00. I’ve just finished chow & feel like a contented kitten. I have to fall out at 8:00 & listen to some Articles of War. When I get back I’ll finish this letter.

Mercy! – is it windy & dusty here now. The sky is full of dust – I hope it rains & settles it. Honey – I’ll close for now – I gotta go! I miss you more than I can say – honey.


9:00 P.M. Well – that’s over. In other words – they told us we had better be good little soldiers – or else!

The wind is getting stronger every minute – it must be blowing about 50 miles per (20 MIN. INTERRUPTION)
Some kid has been sitting here talking about the day when he’s married & has kids. The punk’s only 18. He’s got two women & don’t know which one he wants or which one wants him or “sumpin”. I think he’s had a hard day – or this Army’s getting him down.

How did you come out in your golf lesson – honey? Think you’ll be able to beat me? You’ll probably have to give me a handicap of about 10 strokes.

Honey it’s getting late & I have to do some studying tonight yet – before lights go out.

I’ll write again tomorrow even if I don’t get a letter from you. I hope I do tho.

I’ve just lit up a pipe full of tobacco. I can sit here & smoke & concentrate on you till I fall asleep now. I hope I can dream of you tonight – then I will have pleasant dreams.

I hope I’m not restricted this week-end or I’ll go A.W.O.L. despite the lecture they gave us tonight.

I guess I’ll meet you & Lu. on the 11:00 bus won’t I?

Well Sweetheart, I’d better start studying for a test tomorrow.

Goodnite Honey. I’m thinking of you – don’t forget.

Please write soon, Mark!

All My Love
Johnny
XXXOOXOXXXXX

May 4, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 4, 1943
9:30 A.M.
Tuesday

(inside flap)

Hello
Sweetheart!!
I MISS YOU!!
LOVE X O X X O X)



Darling Mark:

Here it is Tues. morning & I’m just laying around. We don’t start work till 11:00. We usually take a walk about an hour & then come back & eat. I suppose we’ll fire again today.

There’s a big blackjack game going on in the middle of the floor – I wonder if I’m lucky today? I don’t know whether I could concentrate on cards or not – I think of you so much.

It sure is a swell day. They tell us we’re going to start wearing our khaki uniform the 15th, but I wish they would start sooner – it’s so hot. Honey – I’m going to stop for awhile now, but I’ll write after chow & tonight I’ll finish this letter. I just got thru mailing one. I don’t want to mail them the same day – bye for now – honey XOXXX.

2:20 Hello honey – I’m on guard tonight so I didn’t have to go with the co. today.

I’ve just finished showering shining my shoes & cleaning my pistol. In about ½ hr. we go out for practice guard mount & at 4 we relieve the old guard. I’m guarding the motor pool tonite & I hope I catch a Louie down there – I’ll blow daylight thru him. I sure feel mean today – you ought to be here.

I told the orderlie room clerk to put me on guard today – so I wouldn’t have to take any chances of getting it on the week-end.

I got 9 1/2 hrs. sleep last nite – it sure felt good. I won’t get much tonite tho. They’re calling me it now – honey. Bye again.

7:20. Here I am again – I go on guard at 8:00 tho. I just finished chasing a prisoner around.
It’s nice up here this evening – I wish you were here with me. Oh-oh – I got to go again honey –

10:00 I’ve just come off guard. I don’t go back now till
2:00 next morning. I’d better finish this letter now honey – or I’ll be writing a week from now. I expect a letter from you tomorrow – then I’ll write again.

Goodnite honey – I’ll be seein’ ya! I love you.

All My Love
Johnny
XXXOXOOX
X O X

May 3, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 3, 1943
9:45 P.M.

Darling Mark:

I just had to write you – I was thinking of you so much.

I got back in camp about 9:20 this morning. We worked till 7:20 this evening. I had a terrific headache this afternoon – but it’s a lot better now.

Today we went on the range & fired the 60 M.M. mortar & 29 M.M. anti-tank gun.

It sure is nice to lay on a bunk again & write letters. I haven’t much time to write tonight – lights are going out in about 10 min. I have to write a letter home yet tonight if I have time.

I stopped in Manhattan this morning & made reservations for a room next week-end. So don’t fail to come up.

I miss you so much honey – you’re always on my mind.

I’m going to close now for tonight honey – I’ll write you tomorrow nite – More than one page too, maybe. So please answer soon – sweetheart. I Love You

All My Love
Johnny
XOXXXXXOOXOXXX

May 1, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
May 1, 1943

Darling Mark:

I just received your letter – I was writing one to Cec. We just got back to camp about 11:30 this morning & have been getting straightened out & scrubbing the barracks. We got paid at 1:00 today. I sent you a telegram this afternoon which you no doubt got already. I didn’t have time to make any reservations for a room. Next week-end you can come up for sure.

Well Sweetheart I’ve got to hurry to catch my ride to K.C. tonight that’s why I’m scratching this letter out in a hurry. A little is better than none isn’t it? I hope I get to see you tonight. I guess this letter will sound kinda crazy by the time you get it.

Well – Honey please write soon. If you only knew how much I look forward to your letters!! When I get one - I’m happy the rest of the day.

Bye for now- honey. I’ll be seeing you! Write soon.

All My Love – Johnny
XXXOOXXXOXX
X o X

April 29, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
April 29, 1943
Wed. evening

Darling Mark:

I just woke up for mail call to get a letter from you - & believe me that’s the only thing that could have got me up – except maybe chow.

We worked till noon yesterday & got the afternoon off to sleep – but I didn’t. Last night from 8:30 till 7 this morning we were on a night problem. Boy – am I tired. I’ve been sleeping all day but I’m still tired. We have another all-night problem coming up tonight too. I guess we’ll have them the rest of the week.

We’re camped beside Lake Nemaha somewhere up in Kans. about 7 miles from Neb.

How’s the measles coming along – honey? I hope you’re feeling better. I so tired I can hardly stay awake.

I sure wish I was with you honey – I miss you terribly. I know I could stay awake with you.

How did you come out in your last golf lesson? Is Lu. taking up golf too?

Oh- honey How I wish you were here or I down there. I think about you all of the time. I hope I get to see you soon.

Sweetheart I guess I could write on & on but it would only be repetition of what I’ve been saying & I miss you & love you very much honey.

I guess I’d better close now & get my equipment ready for tonight. It looks like rain tonite too. I bet it’ll be a long nite – but then that will give me more time to think of you.

The Capt. got on amphibian on the lake now – just having a heluva time. There’s about 350 acres of water in the lake.

Tell everyone hello for me honey. Tell ”Dede”? hello too.

Good-nite sweetheart!! Please write soon!

All My Love – Johnny
XOXOXOX
Your letters are never dull honey! I miss you honey!

April 25, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
April 25, 1943
6:30
Sunday


(inside flap:

Hello Sweetheart!!
I miss you very much
XXOOXX
Write soon.



Darling Mark:

I received your letter this morn. We’re back at the barracks for today. This morning the whole 9th Am’d Div. was out and lined up along the streets, and guess who came by and looked us over – the President! That guy sure gets around.

We got up this morning about 4:30 & it was raining like hell! I had my uniform outside & it got soaked & I had to wear it to church this morning. I went to Communion too. They hold services out on the parade grounds, but I went to the chapel – it looked like it was going to rain again.

Tonight about 8:00 we move back to the bivouac area. I hope my tent is still up.

They’ve been calling men out for physical exams for overseas duty. I’ll probably be called pretty soon. Not many are passing them.

Boy this sure is a dreary day to be Easter. I wish I was with you. I sure do miss you honey!

Hope you’re feeling better sweetheart?

You better learn to play golf pretty good by the time I see you again – we’ll go out & shoot about 36 holes.

Here’s a joke I ran across yesterday:

MOTHER – entering room abruptly – WHY! – I NEVER!!
DAUGHTER – Oh, Mother – you MUST have!

Well – honey I’d better close for now & get ready to move out.

Get well soon honey. Write soon.
I miss you – sweetheart!

All My Love
Johnny
XOXOXX
BE GOOD

April 24, 1943

April 24, 1943
Sat 3:00 P.M.
??? – Kans.

Darling Mark:

I received your card yesterday – it was really nice. Then I got your letter today. It sure gave me a pickup – I’m so dead tired – I can hardly stand.

Last nite 2 of us fellows went to Manhattan. I sent you a telegram but they wouldn’t let me send any Easter greetings. After that we went to a show & saw “Slightly Dangerous”. We got out of the show about 11:30 & missed the last bus to Fort Riley where a truck was going to take us back to our camp. So – we started hitch-hiking but there wasn’t much traffic out in this god-forsaken place.

We left Manhattan at 12:30 & got back to camp this morning at 4:00 A.M. It was about a 14 mile hike. I never seen such a long damn highway. You could see for miles ahead. My poor feet are killing me. The muscles of my legs are tied in knots & sore as hell. I don’t know how we ever made it back. I felt like laying down beside the road & to hell with the Army.

All this morning we had maintenance – so I crawled in a secluded tent & got a little rest. We’re off this afternoon & as soon as I finish this letter somebody’s going to bed mighty early.

Tomorrow at camp they’re going to hold Easter services in the field. I hope I can get to confession. I need to – after last nite.

So – you got the measles. OH – sweetheart – I bet you sure look sharp.

I haven’t heard from Lu this week yet. I guess I told you we were pulling out of here Monday morn for a 200-mile trip. Next couple of weeks we’re supposed to be back in garrison.

Boy it’s really hot here today. I think I’ll strip & get a sun-tan. I’m going to miss you this week-end honey. Bye now. PLEASE ANSWER SOON.

All My Love
Johnny
XXXXXXOOOXOOOXXXXXX

April 23, 1943

WESTERN UNION TELEGRAM

1943 APR 23 PM 8 23

HX125 10 NL XC=MANHATTAN KANS 23
MISS MARGARET MINGHINI=
1606 WEST XX KSC=

SORRY I CANT BE WITH YOU THIS WEEKEND HONEY. LOVE=
JOHNNY.

April 22, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
April 22, 1943

Darling Mark,

I miss you honey! I haven’t anything else to do so I’m writing to you – so ya can see. I got a letter from Cec. today & just finished answering it.

We were told at noon today that the whole U.S. Army was restricted this week-end.

Sat. morning we go back to camp for a parade & something else – but the Capt. Said he didn’t know what it was. Something must be in the wind. If anyone is not in camp at 10:00 Sat. nite it means a court-martial.

Early Monday morning we’re pulling out and going about 200 miles north. It’s somewhere close or in Nebraska. The rumors around here say we’ll be there a week & then are coming back to the barracks at Funston. I hope so.

Last nite I was gently awakened at 11:00 by a Sargeant who asked if I would go on guard with 5 other guys? (I said yes) We were supposed to have been attacked by another co. last nite but nothing happened. What a miserable nite. The rest of the fellows in camp slept all nite & knew nothing about it.

I’m going to move & hide my tent tonight where they can’t find me.

I just finished cleaning my gun & so I guess I’ll go for a swim & try & shave.

It was cold as blazes last nite but now it’s hot as – yes it is.
Well sweetheart – I’ll close for now. Answer soon – huh?

I’ll be seeing you honey I hope. Bye now.

All My Love
Johnny
XXXXOOOXXXXXXXOOOX

P.S. I got my new Easter bonnet today – 2-1/2 lbs of steel – G.I. Green.

April 21, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
URGENT
April 21, 1943

Dearest Mark –

Here I am again. I just finished writing to you about 2 hrs. ago. I just got word from a Lt. that no one will be able to leave the co. area this week-end. So if you were coming up – I guess you will have to cancel it. I don’t know what’s up – but we have to dress in uniform all day Sunday.

If I get a chance I’ll try & call you Sat. nite.

I just finished writing a letter to Lu. – hope you get this letter in time. I had a fellow mail the other one in Manhattan this afternoon.

It shore is getting windy here now. It looks like rain too. Well Sweetheart, going to sign off now.

I think you’d have a better time home for Easter anyhow. Maybe we can make it after Easter, huh? Good nite Darling. I sure miss you. I’m thinking of you from Taps till Revelle.

All my Love X
Johnny
XOXXXXXXOXOOOXX

April 19, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
April 19, 1943

Hello Darling!!

I just received a letter from you that I didn’t expect. I was going to write anyway.

I got back to camp about 4:20 this morning. I missed breakfast to get an extra half-hour sleep – total 1-1/2 hrs. I’m lucky tho, we didn’t have such a hard day & got off this afternoon about 3:00. I just finished polishing some shoes & straightening out my tent. Boy was it a mess. Say honey wait a couple of minutes, huh? It’s about time for chow & I’m hungry as a horse. There goes the gong & I’m late, I had my shoes off – Just as well take my time now – it only takes a couple of seconds for the whole company to line up. XXoXX.

Back again honey – Hamburger tonight & iced tea with lemon, but it was a bit chilly for iced tea. I got a nice big red apple – wanta bite?

We haven’t moved as yet, I hope we move closer to Manhattan. I’m having a buddy make a reservation for a room Sat. & Sun. I’m not so sure I be able to get one, they’re really crowded. His wife is moving out so I’m trying to get it before anyone else. Are you still coming up here? Let me know for sure honey! I’m looking forward to it.

Mark sweetheart I sure do miss you more every day. Not having a wonderful time – but wish you were here.

Well Darling I’d better close for tonight. Please answer soon & write often – huh? I think I’ll turn in early tonight I’m a very tired little soldier!

Goodnite Darling
Answer soon sweetheart
All my Love
Johnny
Xxxxxoooxxxooxxooxxxooxxxxx

April 21, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
URGENT
April 21, 1943


Dearest Mark –

Here I am again. I just finished writing to you about 2 hrs. ago. I just got word from a Lt. that no one will be able to leave the co. area this week-end. So if you were coming up – I guess you will have to cancel it. I don’t know what’s up – but we have to dress in uniform all day Sunday.

If I get a chance I’ll try & call you Sat. nite.

I just finished writing a letter to Lu. – hope you get this letter in time. I had a fellow mail the other on in Manhattan this afternoon.

It shore is getting windy here now. It looks like rain too. Well Sweetheart, going to sign off now.

I think you’d have a better time home for Easter anyhow. Maybe we can make it after Easter, huh? Good nite Darling. I sure miss you. I’m thinking of you from Taps till Revelle.

All my Love X
Johnny
XOXXXXXXOXOOOXX

April 19, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
April 19, 1943

Hello Darling!!

I just received a letter from you that I didn’t expect. I was going to write anyway.
I got back to camp about 4:20 this morning. I missed breakfast to get an extra half-hour sleep – total 1-1/2 hrs. I’m lucky tho, we didn’t have such a hard day & got off this afternoon about 3:00. I just finished polishing some shoes & straightening out my tent. Boy was it a mess. Say honey wait a couple of minutes, huh? It’s about time for chow & I’m hungry as a horse. There goes the gong & I’m late, I had my shoes off – Just as well take my time now – it only takes a couple of second for the whole company to line up. XXoXX.

Back again honey – Hamburger tonight & iced tea with lemon, but it was a bit chilly for iced tea. I got a nice big red apple – wanta bite?

We haven’t moved as yet, I hope we move closer to Manhattan. I’m having a buddy make a reservation for a room Sat. & Sun. I’m not so sure I be able to get one, they’re really crowded. His wife is moving out so I’m trying to get it before anyone else. Are you still coming up here? Let me know for sure honey! I’m looking forward to it.
Mark sweetheart I sure do miss you more every day. Not having a wonderful time – but wish you were here.

Well Darling I’d better close for tonight. Please answer soon & write often – huh? I think I’ll turn in early tonight I’m a very tired little soldier!

Goodnite Darling
Answer soon sweetheart
All my Love
Johnny
Xxxxxoooxxxooxxooxxxooxxxxx

April 21, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas
April 21, 1943
Wed. 3:00 P.M.


Darling Mark,

I received your letter about an hour ago. I also got an Easter Card from Lu. I’m going to write her a letter & try to beg her to come with you Sat. I guess I should have called her Sun. but my mind was only on one track.

We’ve got the whole day off now & I’m taking it easy in my nice comfortable pup-tent. We’re at our new bivouac area now – we moved out yesterday evening. We’re about 12 miles from Manhattan, so if you come, stop off at Manhattan.

Last night we were on a problem till 3:00 A.M. this morning. We attacked another co. that was camping out. It was a lot of fun while it lasted. Then we came back to our new camp area & pitched our tents. It rained pretty hard last night, but I kept dry. Once our tent blew down – had my buddy get up & fix it.

Honey on days like these, that we have nothing to do – your on my mind continuously.
Sweetheart your letters are never boring. I read them over & again till I get the next one from you.

I’ve got to go into camp tomorrow & report to the personnel office. Maybe they’re going to ship me out or maybe it’s a court-martial.

Have you started to learn to play golf yet? The next time I come in we’ll go out & shoot about 18 holes, huh? At about a dime a hole.

Sweetheart – I guess I’ve nothing much to say - there’s not much happening lately. I miss you a lot honey _ wish I was there. It sure is quiet around here today. I haven’t anything to do but think of you & I don’t mind that a bit.

I wish I had some of that cake your sis baked last Sun – AHEM!

Well – sweetheart I’ll close for now & I hope you wrote that letter last nite. Honey I think I’ll have enough covers to keep warm. Anyway I’m a pretty rugged guy. I won’t be able to live in a house after this.

Bye now & write soon & often honey.
All my Love
Johnny
Xxxoxxoxxoxxxooxxx

April 13, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas

April 13, 1943

My Darling Mark,

I just received your letter about 15 min. ago. Talk about a morale booster – WOW! I was feeling kinda blue ever since Sun. nite. I’ve already read your letter 4 times, & I’m just beginning.

Honey, I’m thinking about you so much right now I can hardly write. Besides that I’m writing by the light of a fire, & half the time I can’t see. It’s too hot to get close & if I move away, there’s no light. So bear with me, if you have to (have) this writing translated into readable words.

Mark – sweetheart, last nite I wrote & told you to come up this week-end. – well honey, I’m afraid, as much as I regret it, that you’ll have to postpone it, if you were coming up. We’re out in the field & I don’t know for how long. There’s a chance that I might be able to meet you in Junction City next Sat. but I don’t want to take the chance of you coming up & then me not getting to see you. I’d be awfully tempted to go A.W.O.L. for a couple of days. In this Army honey, you never know from one min. till the next what’s up. They keep us going around in a vicious whirl here. Boy is that fire getting hot. The flames throw so many shadows, I don’t know whether I’m writing on the paper or what.

INTERRUPTION

They just blew assembly call & I was informed that I’m on guard tonight. I go on from 10-12 & then from 4-6. I’m glad I got you to think of tonight.

Well – sweetheart it’s about 9:45 now so I’d better be closing, as much as I hate to. I can hardly see to write anyhow.

Sweetheart I guess I’ll just have to wait & pray it isn’t too long till I see you again.

Will let you know when I can see you next. And tell Lu. I’d like to have her come too, besides I wouldn’t want you to make the trip alone.

Honey I’ll have to finish this in the morning, I don’t think I’d better try to address an envelope. Good-nite honey xxxoxxox.

April 14, 1:00 P.M.

Just finished chow & am now going out on the firing range to fire 50 cal. machine gun. Mercy it was cold on ground last nite. Write soon Sweetheart –

All my Love

Johnny

April 12, 1943

Fort Riley, Kansas

April 12, 1943

10:00 P.M.

Darling Mark!!

I got to thinking about you so much I had to write. It’s about time for lights out now.

I nearly missed my train last night – it was pulling out when got to it. I got in camp about 4:00 this morning. We didn’t get up till 7:00 tho, so I got 3 hrs. sleep.

This morning we had an hour of exercises & did push-ups. I made 24, then they picked me up. After that we ran 4 miles in 29 min. Mercy I thought I’d never make it.

We got this afternoon off – to pack everything we have.

Sweetheart if you can come up here next week-end – please do – I’d like to see you once more. The way things look, I don’t think I’ll be around much longer.

Mark, I didn’t think I could miss anyone so much as I do you. Last week-end was the best I’ve ever had in town.

I’d better close now honey, & get some sleep. Hope I dream of you tonight. Bye for now. Write soon & often as possible honey. Your letters are about all I look forward to. Think you can find time – huh?

Bye again.

All my Love

Johnny

Xxxxoxxooxxxooooxxxx