Sept 7, 1941. Birthday Card

Aug 28, 1941

Thursday Aug. 28, 1941

3:30 P.M.

Mary Rose dear:

Sure, maneuvers Are fun.  We spent all morning leisurely cleaning equipment and now in am reclining in my hammock, which is thoroughly enclosed by a mosquito net.  Really the nuts!

This is our third week away from Camp Forrest and to be perfectly frank I don't miss it a bit.  Of course you must sleep out in the night air and miss the comforts of daily showers and clean clothes.  Nevertheless, we have seen real country and the people down here go bats over the cavalry.   One very nice middle aged woman even went so far as to bake a cake for three of us one day while we were out on patrol.  Watermelon- I've had more of it these last two weeks than all other years put together.

It seems as though the whole office force is really absent.  I saw Sanders picture in the paper the other day indicating that his outfit had gone to camp.

After a day and a half of interruptions I'm back to your letter and it is now Saturday morning August 30th.  Boy, how the time does pass or doesn't the same hold true in your life of leisure.

Tonight or tomorrow morning we leave for El Dorado, Ark. which is about 100 miles East of this location, Hope, Ark.  We are just about 40 miles from Texarkana, U.S.A. And if I get the opportunity I want to visit the lone star state.  Chances are that we may visit Texas but after getting this close I don't like to miss it.  

As yet I haven't been able to write Don and am wondering how near he is to induction.  Are any of the other fellows getting close to Uncle Sam? 

It's just about time for noon mess so I'd better get this in the mail before I get tangled up again.  

Bye, Bye, and write soon.

As Ever

Stan

P.S. Say "hello" to everyone.

Aug 24, 1941

Dear Stan;

Surprise; yes its me.  Do you know why.  Tis a short, short story.  I am at June's house trying to get some some sleep but leave it to Wally- he broke into my dreams.  Doesn't make much sense- does it.  Well Wally called June and afterwards I was sitting up in bed- wide awake and waiting to hear all- now June is writing Wally so not wanting June to have anything on me- I'm writing you- so Hello. 

Hello and how are you.  Is life in the wilds of Ark agreeing with you ??? Tell me what is your new horse's name- after all- I can't say how's whazaname- You are liable to think I mean anything from soup to nuts.

Golly I have so much to tell you.  I don't know where to start or for that matter where to finish.

G O S S I P

Did you know Hummy's brother Ed is working in A.A. now.  Yes he is and it's almost like another Hummy- especially when he says "Heck no"  You know their special way.  Now with Jim S, brother John, and Hummy's brother- the roll call will sound something like Sullivan, Boer, etc.  A few of us from the office went riding today and had fun fun.  June and I went down to see Loraine tonight and to wish her "Happy Birthday."  Yes Loraine and Marty are engaged.  June tells me it's a beautiful ring.  Two sentences before I forgot to tell you Loraine wasn't home- hence the second hand talk about L's ring.

You know what- my poor top knob is taking an awful beating these days. Last week at the cottage the boom on the sailboat swung around caught me by surprise and gashed my head when I wasn't looking.  Poor me.  And that ain't all.  Such English Thursday night I took up flying.  My horse- Arab by name fell- so swift I didn't even know he fell and the next thing I know I was flying through the air with the greatest of ease and again I say I landed on my head .  Twas a sad moment.  And am I mad.  Not even a black and blue mark on my forehead to show for all my suffering- just a stiff neck and aching shoulder was all I acquired and nobody thought that worthwhile mentioning.  Poor, pour me [sic].  I make a good self sympathizer don't I.  Do you need any sympathy?

If you could see us- June and I- I mean.  We are sitting side by side on a foot stool in her room scribbling away for all we are worth.  Each with our own paper on the back and front respectively of a camera book.  I must have the front because because I just looked and it has birds and sky and trees on it. 

Yes tis page 3, side 5.  My goodness I'm full of talk tonight.  Blame it on _ _ _ _ _ _ [sic].  Yes it was nice and no it wasn't nice being back to work again.  Betty Bays was ill and didn't come back to work until this past Friday, so Betty, Pearl, June and I had lunch together to celebrate her return.  Tomorrow we will have lunch together to celebrate the start of the week and from then on we will lunch together from pure habit.  Oh yes, I almost forgot to mention Dick Asbury nor Dick Schutte work at Amer. Auto anymore.  Gosh I wish the office would go back to same office as- well as last November.  It was perfect then.  CHS, LAM, Bill White, Allen Eckhoff, Beth Bonte, Jerry, Ann Carter, and Jim Kern, and Mary Staton, and Jean Vaul are all on vacation- so the office has that appearance of when she got there the cupboard was bare.  Cross my heart.

I hope you can read in between the lines on account of these are my afterthoughts.  You know before June starts giving me dirty looks for using up all her stationary, before I run out of thoughts, before drowsiness and sleep catches up with me and drop me into bed. I spect I better say "Goodnight againand ever so many pleasant dreams- until next time."

Sincerely,

Mary Rose

P.S. 12 P.M. June is still writing away - but me- I'm sleepy so I spect I'll bundle off to bed - Have a nice pleasant trip.  pretend you are a sight-seeer [sic] and see all.  Then describe it all to me.  Is it a beautiful as Tenn.?  I wish I could see it.  Oh me- again.  I say "Goodnight" and "hello".  I'm just a writer by heart. 

Aug 15, 1941

Dear Stan;

Hello again from this land of dripping icicles, polar bears, and Eskimos.  This morning when I received your letter I read it huddled over the fireplace now here it is afternoon and I'm writing from the depths of a canvas chair.  Lazy me.  Monday there were terribly big waves on the lake- the biggest I have ever seen- and did we have fun swimming through them.  Yesterday we sailed for six hours and toward the end it didn't even thrill us when the boat would tip so far we were practically swamped with water.  I will send you a picture - (if it turns out) of this sailing feat.  'Twas fun.  Tonight we are going to have a song fest on the beach- this is like a church festival- something one doesn't miss- and so tonight it's every family around the lake yelling- or more gently put singing their lungs out at the beach.  Have you a request.  This is the day after I wrote the rest of this letter and we sang "Green Eyes" for you only I don't think you would have liked it.  I must say the mail service is improving.  I was truly so happy and surprised at receiving your letter the mailman almost had to pick me up.

How was your trip through Arkansas- Are you all prepared to write a book on "Seeing the U.S. From a Horse Trailer".  Please write it- I will read it even if no one else will.   Golly just think you have been gone a week-or should I say five months- just think only two years and one month more to go- Oh well let's say just two years.  

So you are throwing Cincy over for a new horse. What will you name him............?  Is he as pretty as Cincy.  I do hope he lives up to your expectations and tell him for me to treat you nice.

Looking out across the lake I see someone else trying desperately to conquer the water ski which makes me answer "Yes I will be brown as a berry but far from tip top shape.  I never get any farther on the ski then to get a good ducking trying to stand up on them.  I don't suppose I will ever learn- perhaps I will try your method, remember you said "if you make up your mind to, you can do anything" and so you spur me on to more bumps and falls.

Nothing like saving the last paragraph till the next day so here it is Thursday afternoon and I'm rushing toward the end.  Until the next letter it's "Goodbye" and to you pleasant dreams.  

Sincerely,

Mary Rose

P.S.  I have mixtures of dreams and nightmares.

August 8 & 11, 1941

Dear Stan, 

Hello again, yes, I arrived safe- sound and sane I think.  I spent three hours sleeping on the train and the rest of the time I wasted.  Of course on the bus I struck up a few acquaintances but our conversations consisted mostly of grunts on their part sparingly salted with monosyllables from me.  

Ho-hum and wonderful day I feel lazy as lazy can be.  Stan where is this letter reaching you- guardhouse or are you a free man.  I doubt it or did you find your papers.  You know I don't know when you will get this letter because the mail service out of here is terrific but as soon as I finish I'll run it down to the hotel where it will probably lay for days.  Pessimistic aren't I.  If you don't answer before next Monday address the letter to Cincinnati, otherwise I will never receive it.

Fishy, fishy is the brook now I catch him on the hook- the fish.  Mother and Dad caught fifty, yes fifty fish last night.  Is it lawful.  If you hear anything about my looking slightly fishy (ha ha get it) don't pay any attention it will only be from eating too many fish.  This is just a fish story but a true one.  

Excitement, excitement I was practically a first class witness to an A-1 murder but the cops arrived and ruined everything.  It seemed some n*****r lady was going to crown her brother because he swiped her dough while her back was turned.  This clubbing scene all took place at the Toledo bus station from whence he was making his getaway via bus.  I'll bet nothing like that happened on your trip, or did it- tell me.  

Can you sail a boat, me neither but I'm going out shortly and try.  I'll probably end up on the wrong side of the boat but as I always say- what's the difference- wrong or right side.

Of course I am addicted to sending you paper clippings but I'll bet you never dreamed it ran in the family.  My cousin cut out an article told me to read it and after I have done this I will send it on to you.  Maybe.

Aw golly it was fun this past week and a day I only wish it could have been longer.  Dancing, dreaming, talking, swimming, pingponging- all every bit of it was fun, fun, fun.  I saved all this till last because then I can just start thinking and re-dreaming it- then I will have two weeks of fun on one week.  So for now it is "Goodbye" pleasant trip to Arkansas and write me soon.  Suppose you were here- golly I would like that.

Sincerely,

Mary Rose

Sunday Aug. 11, 1941

Dear Mary Rose:

Greetings from that sun struck spot of the solid south, Camp Forrest, Tenn.  A place where a guy sits and waits for the days to roll by and hopes that someone will start a rumor refering to a ten day furlough.  Yes, Yes.  Good old army life, where men are men and boys are boys and glad of it.  Wouldn't you like to be masculine and have the opportunity to serve two and one half years for your country.  So much for the same old story.  

Say just two minutes ago I decided to have a brand new horse.  I was riding this new job all day and yesterday.  I'm torn between Cincy and this new animal, but after much consideration, decided to take a chance and be mother to a horse that doesn't know what a rein is or where his next step is coming from.  But boy does he have smooth gaits and does he look sharp.  -- Wow- there I go judging by looks again.

We leave Wednesday morning for Arkansas and I'm one guy who gets anxious to get away from this place for a short time.  My address until September 1st will be: Troop C 107th Cavalry (H-MECZ) A. P.O. 307, Camp Robinson, Ark.

You are no doubt having the time of your life and I really envy you.  Just think you have 24 hours each day to do with as you please.  My, my, you'll be brown as a berry and in tip top shape.

Sgt. Gray is in charge of getting everyone to bed this evening and is pestering me to turn out the light.  So I must and that's that.  

Your letter will be received while on maneuvers no doubt and it will mean more than ever because everyone is expecting a tough time.

Goodnight and a little dreaming will help me a great deal.  'Til reveille then, pleasant dreams.

As Ever,

Stan

July 24 & 24, 1941

820 Suire Avenue
Cincinnati, Ohio
July 24, 1941

Dear Stan;

For goodness sake- you could have knocked me over with a feather- and to think I was ready to feel bad when I saw how small it was- that, of course was before I read the contents.  Now, you could hardly hold me down.  Just two more days and you will be home. 

In case you wonder at the smallness of my letter- I will tell you- I am saving all my news so I can tell it to you in person.  Smart idea.

And so until "Hello" Sunday its "Goodnight".

Sincerely,

Mary Rose

P.S.  I hope your night-out was good for you.  Don't come home sleepy.

Wed. July 23, 1941
12:45 P.M.

Dear Mary Rose:

I just drew a lucky number and if all goes well I'll be home Sunday morning for 10 days.  Think of that, ten days. July 27 to August 6th.

We're going to be out all night to-nite and I knew I wouldn't have the opportunity to write this evening sitting in a dark pup tent.

This is a very hurried line as you can see.  I'll be calling you-

As Ever
Stan

Another Blog

http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~gregkrenzelok/veterinary%20corp%20in%20ww1/wschweitzer107cavftord.html

Found this great blog on the 107th.

July 16 &18th, 1941

Dear Stan:

Hello again- Tis it "Good morning, afternoon, or evening or just "Hello"

So now its "Cincy"- I like it.  Now tell me- just why did you name him that.  Could it be.  But may I ask how did everyone think up a name beginning with C. and did anyone pick the name "Clown".  I am really curious about this last.

Stan, Stan don't be such a pessimist.  Say over and over "War won't come" then you can at least be happy until it hits you.  For some reason I don't think we will go to war.  Why I believe this I cannot say- Maybe its just a feeling.  Certainly though everything points in that direction but then again there are quite a few articles in papers and books that point away from war.  If only we knew- its all such a question mark.  Perhaps- it is all propaganda- but still I pray each night that war will not come.

You know I forgot to ask you "Did you christen "Firefly" "Cincy" yet- and when you did- did you knock a bottle of                 over his head.  And did he kick (literally speaking) when you did- if you did.

My goodness Camp Forrest is certainly getting blazoned across the country these days.  When was it- Wednesday- Tuesday- there it was practically a whole page about Camp Forrest- and yes your name isunder the title of "We Salute"- Of course there were other names but Francis Cronin uncovered yours and showed it around.  If I can coax it out of her tomorrow I will read what it is all about and enclose it.  So you see that guy Ben Lear isn't pushing anyone back in a dark corner.

My pen has a case of leaks- that is first its heavy then its light - (See first page) its all according to the side you write on. 

Have you heard of "America First"?  Mother and Dad are members as well as quite a few or shall I say numerous friends of theirs.  It is said that this shall we say association is doing its all and fighting tooth and nail against the passing of the "extension of time" bill.  There are millions of members of this club who write to F.D.R. reminding him of promises he made in the past.  Perhaps it is this pressure that is holding the bill back- and if this be true "A thousand times more pressure against it I say".  If a promise to the president means the same as a promise is to me then "its everything" and we won't ever ever go to war.

My goodness now see what you started- me- you just wound me up and I could probably keep going on the subject for a whole book length but not being a writer - nor a preacher I will stop here. 

I'm sorry but I have no second sheets to this stationary so here I am using a first sheet for a second- but don't let it confuse you- and just so it don't I am placing a big -2- right at the top of the page- this minute- now- I'm finished and I hope it keeps you on the straight and narrow.

Well here I am with three pages left and what to write about- well how's about some "shop talk".  You like that- allright here goes.  First of all comes a big surprise- or is it- Helen Van O has left us- a job elsewhere- and so around the circle again.  Betty Boys takes Helen's place- and a new girl name of Miss Minch takes Betty's place at dictaphone.  Francis Cronin, Pearl, Frank Cole (I think) and Troy Dinger are starting their vacations Monday.  Oh yes and its just the walls of A.A. not the building that are coming down.  When you come back may I have the pleasure of showing you around please.  It will be a pleasure I assure you and with so many new nooks and crannies you could never find your way alone- as a matter of fact when we're all settled I will be over in 'Karashuseum?'-spelling- rug Co.  I mean where it used to be.

Guess where I have been- dinner- then a look at the newspapers- the result of which is enclosed.  I said this time no clippings- but alas and alack they intrigue me.  Please don't think I am a paper cutting maniac- at heart I'm harmless- and when you have had enough paper clippings- at least to cover the barrack walls- just yell "stop" and reconsider.

Is it raining you ask.  Well yes aannd nooo.  Lightning and thundering yes.  The angels are rolling beer barrels in heaven.

Two letters in one week- well as you always say "keep up the good work".  By the way Ivy Backherms was married on the first day of his ten day leave.  He and Mary plan to live in Camp Shelby- someone said- I'm just a newspaper man at heart. 

As usual- not enough space and so I end saying "Goodnight- come home soon and if you don't mind instead of dreaming for you- I will dream of you. 

Sincerely,

Mary Rose

P.S.  If you hear even a hint that its time you are coming home- tell me.

July 16, 1941
Kay Kyser Time (8:45) C.S.T.

Dear Mary Rose:

My Gosh, this guy Ben Lear is certainly getting all of the publicity.  We poor enlisted personnel must sit back in the dark outside the world.  But really everyone in the barracks receives some sort of clipping about the golf course incident.  Strange enough they're all different.  The cartoon clipping which you enclosed was the best and funniest yet.

No they're not riding us hard, but we did have to stick around and clean bridles last Saturday afternoon just because the Colonel got his hand a little dusty.  For a while over the week end and the early part of this week it seemed as though there would be a mass uprising against the powers on the throne, but it seems to have quieted down with a few expections.


The 10 day leave is still a Grade A rumor and no order has as yet been issued officially.  I'm going to be the most disappointed boy in camp if this major dream doesn't come true.

Today we changed all of the horses names to those beginning with "C" (Troop C- get it?)  So "Firefly" is now "Cincy".  Pretty classy title don't you think.

What's wrong at the office?  Don't tell me the Carew Tower is crumbling.  Or is the American Auto just knocking out another wall?

My. my F.D.R. is really blowing his top.  Wants us to stay in longer than one year.  But will we?  You know "doggonned" well we will.  It's just one of those things and in the final analysis one-two or three years won't mean anything because war will be declared before the second year has a chance to start.  It's terrible for me to talk like this.  Isn't it now?

Well, I'm in charge of quarters to-nite so I'm the guy that must turn the lights out.  Goodnight and dream a little for me.

As Ever,

Stan

Photos of Camp Forrest, Tenn.

F

From Wikipedia:


"The camp, named after Civil War Cavalry Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest, was originally named Camp Peay. Camp Peay was named after the Tennessee Governor Austin Peay and built in Tullahoma as a National Guard Camp in 1926. Camp Peay covered 1,040 acres (4.2 km²). Camp Forrest covered 85,000 acres (340 km²) located just beyond the old Camp Peay.
The camp was a training area for infantry, artillery, engineer, signal organizations, and cooks. It also served as a hospital center and temporary encampment area for troops during maneuvers. Maj. Gen. George Patton brought his 2nd Armored Division from Fort Benning, Georgia for maneuvers.
William Northern Field, an air training base, was an addition used as a training site for crews of four-engined B-24 bombers of the Army Air Forces.
Incoming troops had the normal amenities such as service clubs, guest houses, library, post exchanges, post office, hospital, religious services, theaters, showers, Red Cross, and Army Emergency Relief facilities. Recreation facilities include swimming, archery, tennis, a sports arena and a nine-hole golf course.
Camp Forrest officially became a prisoner of war camp May 12, 1942. The camp housed Italian and German POWs. Prisoners became laborers at Camp Forrest in the hospitals and on farms in the local community. Initially the camp held civilian detainees who were arrested at the outbreak of the war under a program called "Alien Enemy Control." Many of these internees were incarcerated without legal process. Official government documents made available in the late 1990s indicate that over 25,000 Alien Enemies were held at various locations throughout the United States. Camp Forrest's population was over 700. In 1943 they were transferred to other Internment Camps to make room for actual POWs captured on the field of battle."

July 11 & 14, 1941

Dear Stan;


Tick, tock and now its "I Want Out of My Way."  Shh don't wake me.  No- it's not that- just Guy Lumbardo on Lady Esther Serenade.  It is such beautiful music.

You know if you do come home in the early part of August I might even begin to like the Army.  & Especially when they give you l l l l l l l l l l day leaves.  Looks like days and days- doesn't it.  Well it is.  Are they riding you hard these days or is it all what its cracked up to be.

Uh um (translation- YES) I did see Hummy last Friday.  Why don't you two get together on this civilian clothes problem- I'm afraid you both have a mania for them.  I have a marvelous idea- wouldn't it be swell if you could come home one week and Hummy the next then it wouldn't seem like years and years.  I'm afraid I am just rattling tonight and not making sense- But my one track mind is trailing and wondering, hesitating and stopping on all kinds of dreams.

Stan- I am truly sorry to hear about your brother's wife's death.  I do hope it doesn't hinder his recovery too much.  Why do things like that have to happen.

Pardon me- but I just took time out to chase some buzzing bee out of my room.  You think I wasn't scared.

I am just enclosing this picture and won't say a word about it but "Guess Who?"

Tom Lett has acquired a southern accent from Va. and now writes in a foreign language- but he hasn't a thing on us'ns at home.  We have an honest to goodness southern for a bookeeper- so if I suddenly start dropping my r's don't blame me.  Our office is one mad mess- everyone looks as though they have just emerged from a plaster shower.  As if they hadn't.  One almost expects the ceiling and such other overhead material as we now have to crash down on our heads at any moment.  [she drew a small picture of her at a desk and ceiling falling on her]  Yes, I'm just an artist at heart.

Ah yes and with bugs chasing and ceilings falling- I will leave you with this pessimistic thought say Good- nights, pleasant dreams happy days and Good night.

Sincerely

Mary Rose

Dear Mary Rose:

The picture certainly did turn out just fine, even though they are a bit lop-sided.  Thank you very kindly for sending the set.  I'm going to take a flock of pictures as soon as possible and send you the better ones.

Lt. General Ben Lear (our boy) is getting quite a bit of publicity over the golf course incident .  The article which you sent, however, made no mention of the beautiful damsels being in shorts.  An Associated Press writer, in an article appearing in the Post stated that Ben is the type of General our Army can do without.  So much for our golf playing boss and may he remember that soldiers in trucks just have to whistle at such landscapes.

By this time you have probably seen Hummy in the office.  Most all of the fellows that didn't go home over the fourth are now spending this week end at home.

One of the fellows brought his car to camp with him and we may breeze home one of these week ends.  It is also rumored that we will get a 10 day leave the early part of August.  There is however nothing authentic about this report but even the officers are talking about it.  So maybe it will come true.  Think of it 10 days.  Maybe we'll both be able to get more sleep on the next occasion of a visit.

My brother's wife died and was buried Thursday.  I haven't heard how my brother took it but I'll bet he really broke down.

Well, time and paper are clamping down on me so I'd better close and be on my way to the little cot in the corner where I'll listen to a little music and drowse slowly to sleep.  Goodnight and many many pleasant dreams.

As Ever,

Stan


 ------------------
Side Note:  I wasn't sure about this "Lt. Gen. Lear" so, I wikipedia-ed it...here is the story below:
-Mike

"He was commanding general of U.S. Second Army from October 20, 1940 to April 25, 1943 and was promoted to temporary lieutenant general in October 1940. As such, he was responsible for training a large number of U.S. soldiers during World War II. He became known as a strict disciplinarian.
It was in the lead-up to these maneuvers that Lear acquired the nickname "Yoo-Hoo". He was playing golf at the Country Club in Memphis, Tennessee in civilian clothes on Sunday, July 6, 1941, when a convoy of 80 U.S. Army trucks carrying men of the 35th Division rolled past. The troops in the passing trucks subjected a group of women in shorts to a series of whistles and "lewd and obscene" catcalls. Lear had the convoy stopped and told the officers that this conduct was unacceptable, and they had disgraced the army. Lear's punishment was to make every one of the 350 men in the convoy march 15 miles (24 km) of the 45 mile (72 km) trip back to Camp Joseph T. Robinson, Arkansas in three 5 mile sections. This they did in the 97°F (36C) heat. Many men straggled and a number collapsed. There was storm of public criticism of Lear's action from people who felt that the soldiers had been harshly and collectively punished when they had done nothing wrong. The commander of the 35th Division, Major General Ralph E. Truman was well-connected politically, his cousin being Senator Harry S. Truman, and some Congressmen called for Lear to be retired. However, to Army eyes this was not a case of sexual harassment but of indiscipline, and no action was taken against Lear.^[2] The derogatory nickname "Yoo-Hoo" stuck."

Farewell Party

I just found this photo....On the back it says,

"FAREWELL PARTY  
MANDARIN ROOM
MARIEMONT INN"

"Late December 40' or Jan 41'"

July 7 & 9, 1941

Cincinnati, Ohio 

July 9, 1941

Dear Stan;

No, no you are not crazy- except perhaps just a little nice crazy and that's good for you.  I'm glad you did not have a hard day Monday.  I even prayed for rain Sunday on account of you hoped for it- remember.  Ah!  but whats this I hear about  your Lieut. Gen. Ben Lear- uh- um- the young sprouts.  He is the one you spoke on from your Camp Forrest isn't he?  I would hate to waste all of this space on an unknown to both of us.  So that's how he spends his off-days - and now you know what to "talk" to him- perhaps he will love you like a brother and let you come home real quick.  

        And speaking of coming home- May I say- double what you wrote.  It was truly a happy weekend- and the only sad or shall I say un-nice part of it was that you had to leave.  Someday- we will celebrate your permanent return.  Soon.

       Oh so you saw them- yes and they are all in order.  First you then me, then you, then me- then us.  Then the City.  We positively hug the corners of the pictures and since we do it on all the pictures- IT IS NOT MY Photography.  Truly- I think perhaps I would have died of a broken heart had they been a disappointment- this set is especially for you- on account of I have a set for myself.

       Pardon if there is a bit of swing to my writing - but Ray Kyser is on and far be it from me to hold tight while he plays.  It's the "Hussel"- now "Daddy"- there is only one thing missing "Goodbye Now"  Oh well we can't have everything.

     Thus tenth is is for office news- and so here goes- Tom Lett let off with another missive- just to let us know he is in Camp Lee, Va. and has hooked up with some 210 lbs of 6'5" men and declares after one bowl of "Boopsies" (as advertised by Lil' Abner) (this not is in case you aren't familiar with funny news) he intends to give his friend a glare.  

     Well here I am writing again and hope this continues for but a short time more- I have so much to say but must be short and choice bits of news seep into my letter.  I'm glad your butterflies are all settled.   Mine too.  Please, please write real soon.  They are playing "Taps to R?" by Fred Naring now.  

Sincerely, 

Mary Rose

P.S. And not and after thought, "It was a wonderful time".

Monday July 7, 1941
9:30 P.M.

Dear Mary Rose:

Yes, we arrived here safely at 4:00A.M. just a bit tired and sorry.  We left Cincy about 7:45 P.M. and were escorted to Camp by a beautiful full moon.  Of course all of the boys regreted having to leave after such a short visit and all agreed that it's a cruel world at the present.  We were the first group to return to camp and fortunately we all had a comparatively easy day.  This morning was devoted to hoeing the "yard" so as to get it in shape for the planting of grass seed.  This afternoon was spent in exercising the horses and most all of them were full of pep.  This evening from 7 to 8 we attended a lecture on map reading.  So it really wasn't bad, now was it?
        I must thank you for making my visit so full of happiness and without a doubt the happiest one of my life thus far.  Never before did I have such a desire to see anyone and, like a nightmare here I am once again at camp already looking forward to the time when I will again be free to turn toward home.  It's funny, how a guy, in my position, will sit down to write a letter to his girl friend and soon find them pen talking to him.  If it wasn't for him.  If it wasn't for a good bit of will power the pen would no doubt go on and unveil everything, but I don't suppose it would be right to allow such a thing to happen.  See- at last I'm going crazy.  The army is not solely to blame I don't believe.
       Well, Mary Rose the lights are about to go out (10:30 P.M) and since you are of the opinion it's very difficult to write by flash-light I'll end this little bit of something or other and will await your speedy reply.

As Ever (and then some)
Stan

P.S. Upset stomach gone- no trouble.

May and June 1941

820 Suire Ave.
Cincinnati, Ohio
June 30, 1941

Dear Stan:

Seeing as how your long awaited letter brought such good news I would be willing to receive but one each month if they all brought the same news.  This is going to be one of those "wishful thinking" weeks and I hope it won't all be in vain.  I will probably be up at the break of dawn Friday morning waiting for the phone to ring and probably break my neck answering it every time it does.  Golly it will be good to see you.  I suppose everyone down there is in a complete state of dithers wondering if they will be lucky enough to be one of the homeward bound.

So you're a Corp now-and how does it feel- any different- do you bark orders or does someone bark orders at you- still? Of course you failed to mention this fact but I had heard about it from three different sources long before your letter arrived with Corp etc. inscribed upon it.

Since this letter will not be due at the box until 8:00 P.M. and it is now only 5:00 P.M.  I have literally oodles of time in which to scribble my thoughts away.  Well we had our picnic Saturday a week ago and a fine time was had by all.  Wish you were there.  I was right up there taking batches of pictures in my usual way- and they turned out in the usual way- one out of every four took and it was anybody's guess as to what it was.  You are going to catch me in the midst of a case od sunburned nose which was acquired on yesterday (Sunday morning).  It was fun though.  I even got up nerve enough to fall off the second board and the way I feel today I wonder if I'll have nerve enough to dive from the side of the pool.  So many bones and stuff to ache.

Tis' a lovely evening here- breeze flowing through the trees and blowing my correspondence hither and yon- but far be it from to say "away with the breeze" on with it, says I.

Tom Leth left for the army today and was positively broken-hearted about it- Poor Tom.  They had a stag farewell party for him last Thursday evening.  Such things leaving isms out. 

Ding-Dong time for dinner or shall I say "Mary Rose- dinner has been on the table for 10 minutes when are you coming down" and so its "Goodbye" until Friday morn when I hope, wish and will dream it will be a "Hello" by phone.  You say you will be awake all night- I can beat that I will probably lie awake all week.  Hoping you don't disapoint me- Just four more days.

Sincerely,

Mary Rose



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Friday June 27, 1941
Camp Forrest, Tenn.

Dear Mary Rose:

Honestly I haven't written a single letter in two weeks.  We just got back to camp after having joined in the maneuvers for three days about thirty miles from camp.  The last sentence doesn't make a bit of sense but I hope you'll be able to tear it down and understand the supposed meaning.

Today we learned definitely that two thirds of the troop will be allowed to journey homeward over the fourth.  We will be able to leave here Thursday at 3:00 P.M. and will probably arrive in Cincy about one or two in the morning.  We must be back at good old Camp Forrest at 8:00 A.M. Monday.  One of the fellows is going to drive several of us in a nice new convertible Ford Sedan.  So I'll be on my way before I could possibly receive a reply to this letter.  or will I?

Of course I realize that you in all probability have your program all lined up for the holiday and I don't want my visit to interfere with your plans in any way.

In any event you go ahead with your schedule and I'll call you sometime Friday morning.  (Not during the wee hours however)  If you have any other ideas you might send your bit in an air mail letter which will get here before the "boat" leaves. I wouldn't ask you to do this if the time wasn't so limited.  They didn't let us know definitely about the leave until today and for this reason everyone is rushing about making plans at the last minute (The Army way).

Wait a minute.  I'm not even positive I'll be one of the lucky ones to be allowed off.  So you had better just go ahead with things as you had planned.  As soon as I learn definitely, and if possible, I will let you know pronto.

I've got my fingers crossed and will really be diligent at mass Sunday hoping that everything turns out for the best.

I'd better say good-night and get a letter off to my parents.  Hoping to be with you on my ??? visit.  I'll retire soon to plan the week-end and probably be awake most of the night.

As Ever,
Stan

P.S.  This is certainly a mixed up letter isn't it






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June 23, 1941

Dear Stan:

Are you lost, strayed, stolen, or what.  I am in such a habit of writing you every Monday night I can't quite break away from it and so this puts me one up on you.

Has Firefly bewitched you or have you bewitched Firefly as yet, what I am saying is does your horse still kick when you try to brush her up.  Have you been doing much riding lately and if so= what kind.  I will warn you here and now- I have limited myself to three pages and I have a 10:30 deadline I want to make for catching up on my dreams so don't be surprised if I just drop off.

We had our annual picnic (remember) this past Saturday and it was a wonderful day and a wonderful time.  We all were rather disapointed that bone of you showed up but repeating myself over and over I will say "You're in the Army (Cavalry- what difference) now.

Hoping this time bomb jolts an answer from you- a long one.  I'll say "Goodnight" and hope you answer mighty soon, and I really mean I am hoping.

Sincerely,
Mary Rose

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June 9, 1941

Dear Stan:

Call it coincidence but at this very moment they are playing "There's no Place Like Home"- Lanny Ross program.  Of course it is the 150th anniversary of the composers birth- so the reason.

It's a wonderful night here- not a star not even a moon in the sky- but still it's a perfect night.  Just the kind one dreams of in their day dreams.  Enough for the weather and on with what have for you.  You will probably laugh but I have been tearing around since 5:00 P.M. with your letter in my pocket between dentist- music- and others and have just finished reading (your letter) (is at 10:30 P.M.) and so here I am setting forth my scattered thoughts.  P.S. This is supposed to be at the end but there is no room so I will tell you here.  I will give the cards to Lindsey tomorrow.  You're welcome.

How was your inspection the day after you wrote your letter- Saturday by name- were you right there, neat as a pin and all?  Are you still nibbling away at cookies, candy, etc. or are you over that by now.  Please don't mind if you suddenly track down a smudge of carmel somewhere but I had yearning for them so I'm crunching away.

Well tomorrow Kay leaves us and soon thereafter Thelma Martins and then its more recruits- one thing you can't complain about the sameness of scenery nor the lack of variety in new faces. Rather like a never ending line.

Golly it was grand seeing Hummy come walking in and such a surprise.  0f course, upon looking over the files and seeing his hat I patiently awaited a few additions but so much to my disapointment- only Hummy arrived.  It was good to see him though.  All goes to show you are still alive down that way.  He is certainly looking in the best of health but of course I don't believe I ever heard mention anything about him diving on his head or falling off his horse.  Are you and Wally trying to monopolize the sick list.

I had a dream the other night in which everything from you and the nextdoor girl running her car into trees to Dick Asbury playing ball with little kids- but it being quite lengthy- I will save it for a future date when perhaps I can tell it without writing it.  Until next time.

Sincerely,
 Mary Rose

The image she sent.

Friday June 6, 1941

Dear Mary Rose:

My, what a letter!  You must have really been in the mood.  I really appreciate it and hope that you will continue to write such letters.

Oh yes, I'm again in the swing of things.  My shoulder hasn't completely healed but it's very little trouble.  I still have it held secure with a single piece of tape.  The tape is stretched across the shoulder blade so as not to hamper the use of the arm.  

My Aunt reached the barracks about 11:30 A.M. Saturday.  I showed them the camp and we took a few pictures.  We then spent the rest of the afternoon in Winchester, Tenn., a little burg about 15 miles from camp.  They left about 7 o'clock Saturday eve in order to be able to keep a date somewhere in Ky.  Auntie presented me with a large box of cookies , marshmallows, mints, gum, nuts, and candies.  I have spent a great deal of time nibbling this week.

I'm far ahead of you.  I happened to get a hold of a Times Star and read all about Mr. Sanders appointment .  I'd really like to join his outfit.

You were really busy over the holiday, weren't you?  Golf, tennis, swimming, and horseback riding in one day.  That's a pretty fast schedule.  Was it really one day or is this your week end activities? 

No picture yet, but soon.  I hadn't better say any more or you'll be accusing me of not keeping a promise.  

This will have to be a short letter because tomorrow is inspection and I must tidy up a bit.  My next letter will be a lengthy one telling of the sadness of it all.  Once again I must close hoping and waiting for the opportunity to see you.  Goodnight.

As Ever,

Stan.

P.S.  Will you please give the enclosed credit cards to Lindsey?

June 3, 1941

Dear Stan: 

You can't say I didn't warn you before hand in order to give yourself a chance to be ready for my twelve page letter and please don't be technical if I write but ten.

First and foremost how are you- Still parading around as a one armed soldier or are you fully recovered?  I am still trying to figure your head and shoulder angle out but I spect there is a connection somewhere at that and so all I'll say is "I hope you are well on the road to recovery.

Is there any definite news to date as to when you are coming home.  I mean have they told you "Oh go play in your own backyard" or Sorry, but you can't go home.  If they said the first they will be friends of mine for life, if the other for life they are my enemies.

Did your aunt show up Saturday- morning- noon- or night?  Did you show her the camp or were you still confined to the barracks.

And speaking of people visiting you- Shirley S. is not coming to see you on account of she is now back in her harness at the noted Claim Department.  After a bit of third degree I discovered that instead of a mere sixty miles she was but a mere two hundred miles away and since she had nothing but a broken down nag to use for conveyance she did not come a-visitin.

Then you ask "Has Kay Dorning departed".  The answer is no- Ray won't leave us until next Tuesday and will be married on Saturday June 14.  For the first time since you left Ray had a fit of giggles the other day of course, there was an agitator on the sideline name of Dick Asbury.  Until the next page it is Sincerely, 

Mary Rose.

Dear Stan;

Back again and well on the way to a good start.  Now lets see I was talking shop.  I had all the good intentions of cutting up the Saturday or was it Thursday Times and sending it to you- but alas and whack I was caught in the act and so I will have to say what bit I remember and you will have to sort of filter it out of general talk just what this important news was.  Are you very curious yet?  

Ah ha and on this page the mystery is solved.  It was all about how Mr. Sanders was made a Lt. Col. and will again be active in some kind of work at the Reading Road Armory.  This is all I can recall at the present moment and unless I can beg, borrow or steal the paper clipping from some unsuspecting soul this measly bit of information will have to suffice.  

You know I have just been trying to figure out how I am going to cram this book into the envelope but after a flash of inspiration I remembered the old saying  "Where there's a will there's a way" and so I'll just rattle on.  

In your prize package you mentioned that it rained Decoration Day down there and asked what sort of weather turned up here.  Well it rained on and off in spurts and to date it has done nothing else.  As a matter of fact at this moment it is raining so hard one would think All heaven is emptying its rain stored for months down on us.  But between the rains I have managed a set of tennis at which I was badly beaten, a game of golf on which rolled up a score of 59 (improving) a spot of horseback riding at which I am improving and two afternoons of swimming.  The next installment is forthcoming

Just

Mary Rose

Dear Stan:

Personally I think I'm tearing this off pretty good.  And now back to swimming again.  Did you hear anything that sounded especially like a loud splash- No need to worry It was only me doing one of my very famous "How not to Dives".  Truly I'm improving in this art though as people are beginning to tell me my dives look more like dives everyday.

And speaking of sports, brings to mind the office picnic.  It- that is this great event is to take place on Saturday June 21st and we are all looking forward to it with enthusiasm.  My only wish is that you and the rest could also attend to make it a perfect day.

Well yes and no, there has and there hasn't been any word received about induction into the army but several of them have received their papers regarding it the latest of these being Tom Lett who tells us as he claims the story goes he did all but act dead to scare them away from taking him.  Yes Tom Mc and several others will have to register and are more or less looking forward to this task with anything but pleasure.

There are angles, angles, and more angles to be considered on that "Soldier Dance" proposition.  I rather agree with you in that the girls have a terrible task in acting as I suppose hostesses but even though I admire them in trying to be entertaining and nice I certainly wouldn't care to be in their shoes.

Now don't spoil your horse with too much sugar- pet or no pet.  I would like to see him following you around- untied of course.  Have you taken any pictures of him yet and again how about your picture.  I am becoming more and more anxious to see them.

Well here I am at the end of twelve pages and have still more to say but I will save it until I see you and hope your next letter will bring news- good news of a visit from you to our fair city.  Until then it's "Goodnight".

Always,

Mary Rose

 

Friday May 30, 1941

Dear Mary Rose:

You can bet I'm coming home the first opportunity.  It now develops that it's going to be either a plane or automobile ride.  However it's very difficult to speak of any definite means of conveyance at the present time.  Just as soon as I learn definitely I'll send you complete details.

Shirley Smith didn't stop to see us as yet.  Did she say definitely that she intended to pay us a visit?  Has Kay Dorning departed from your midst to prepare for her marriage?

 Your golf game is improving.  Isn't it?  You should be able to lower your score considerably before you become too interested in swimming and give up the Scotch game.

My Aunt isn't supposed to show up on the scene until tomorrow.  I'm supposed to be confined to quarters.  Since Monday I've been kept at the barracks as a result of an injury to my left shoulder which was acquired when I hit hit on my "haid".  At the present my left shoulder is taped very securely to my side.  I had an x-ray taken Thursday and learn that there is no evidence of broken bones.  The doctor says that their is a mild separation of the ligaments about the shoulder blade.  So, at the present, I'm negotiating as a one armed soldier.  Last night we attended a dance, at the Tullahoma Y.M.C.A., which was given for Troop C solely.  For the most part I acted as a door guard.  Later on I sipped a coke or two and wondered off with the music.  Yes, just to dream of a night in Cincy and how I will be able to do all that I expect on such a short visit.  The dance was very fine but to me it seemed as though the group of young ladies present were from a different world.  Yet, all of the girls were from the very best families of neighboring towns.  To me the girls have the most difficult task.  That is, dancing with anyone who takes it upon themself to tag.  In addition they must carry on a conversation, no matter how bored or disgusted they may be.  If I was in their place you couldn't pay me to attend one of these soldier dances.  Do you agree that I have the right idea?  Or am I being to rash at making such a statement?  In any event I suppose there are many angles to be considered before condemning any of the young fair sex.  This, in all probability, sounds like a lot of useless chatter but I got started so I had to finish.  So please remember this when you begin to feel puzzled.

Say, I'm in a fine mood to continue on to a ten page gospel as promised, or should I say, suggested, in your letter.

The pictures taken in our last bivouac have not as yet returned.  I should have several this coming week.  

My horse is really becoming a pet.  He does not hesitate to follow me wherever I choose to go.  That is, when I leave him untied, understand.  He is very thin skinned and shines very brightly.  After doing a good grooming job I feel very proud of Firefly's appearance.  

How did you spend Decoration Day?  It rained very hard this afternoon here and is continuing to do so this evening.  It was surely welcomed inasmuch as it is the first rain we've had in a month.  I hope your day wasn't spoiled by the weather.

When is the office picnic to be held?  Hummy received several letters from Columbus which indicated that it is forthcoming.  

Have any of the fellows received any word regarding their induction into the army?  I suppose that Tom McLaughlin will have to register since he is now twenty-one.

I suppose it's time to let you rest your eyes after such a weary day at the office - ahem- so I'll be signing off shortly.

Now to shower and then to bed thinking of you and my Aunt's appearance tomorrow.  Sorry I must share my dream to-night.

As Ever

Stan

P.S.  See you subsequently- 

May 28, 1941

Dear Stan, 

Maybe you did and maybe you didn't- but after you hit smack-dab on your haid- have you a tooth left in your head to speak of.  Sorry but until the present moment I had heard no rumors about a missing tooth.  

Yes, you attended a party at M Glassmeyer's right in the midst of the Christmas Holidays.

Seems nice to think of Cold Christmas days in the midst of this heat wave- but there are remedies and so Friday, Saturday and Sunday I think I'll spend my days swimming or should I say sinking.  Which reminds me.  

That trip you mentioned in your recent letters.  I hope that what you said you hoped was the truth I hope so too.  It would be perfect if you could come home so I'll just go on hoping, hoping, hoping.

Golly that must have been some horse show you were in last Saturday.  I would have liked to have been an on-looker.  What do you mean by (so-called dress uniforms) don't you like it.  Also what do you mean no-time at all - a big success.  It is now two months and how many more.

Did Shirley come in to see you or not.  And thinking of vacations Don is having these two weeks and speaking of Don and Shirley reminds me of the office.  Well things are still moving along- Alice Sullivan is leaving and Pearl (as you have probably heard) is taking her place- Betty is taking Pearls and a new girl name of Dorthy Peters is taking Betty's place and so we have a whole new set up.  We have another new girl whose name I do not know who is taking Kay D's place and also helping Peggy at the switchboard.  Last but not least A.A. lost 11-2 last night in a game with Rex Eler.  I think the name of the team was Woe is me.  

Well I'm glad you mentioned something about maneuvers as I have been hearing all kinds of reports as to when they will start.  Seems to me everybody in the army is headed for Tenn.  Must be the thing to do this year.  Bob Berding tells me his brother is in the vicinity of Camp Forrest or do you know this.

Last Sunday I played golf again and again.  I shot an 82 for (close your eyes and read this) (nine holes.  And speaking of shots and shooting did you get your picture shot yet.

One of these days I am going to tear of a ten page letter and tell you everything I want to or have to say but until such a thing happens I will end my four page note and say "Goodnight".

Sincerely,

Mary Rose

P.S.  How was your Aunt's visit?

 

Monday May 26, 1941

Dear Mary Rose:

One of the fellows informed me, this evening at mess, that he hired a private plane to Cincinnati for $65.00.  He said that this private pilot would carry four passengers for this same fee.  I hope that that this is the truth.  We do not contemplate making the trip for about three weeks.  So I will keep you posted as to developments.

Jim Condo is sitting at this very table and we have successfully thrashed out the Glassmeyer situation.  Wasn't I at her home, to attend a party, during the Christmas holidays?

Say- did you hear that I lost a tooth?  Well I didn't.  Lucille Hardy wrote one of the boys (Ferd Spangler) and told him I lost one.  How do such rumors get going.  If you see her you must put her straight.  

Plenty of pictures were taken on a bivouac which took place Saturday and Sunday.  We rode to Manchester, Tenn. a very little town about twelve miles from camp.  We went through the town mounted and when arriving at a selected spot in the woods all went in swimming.  It was really a beautiful place.  Water fourteen feet below a very picturesque falls.  We were diving off a cliff about 15 to 20 feet above the water.  On the seventh or eighth dive I hit bottom smack dab on my haid [head?] that ended my water party for the day.  That evening we participated in a horse show.  We really looked sharp under the flood lights.  The 25 horses that took part were trimmed in white and we had our so called dress uniforms.  According to reports we were very good.  A big success in no time at all.

The latest reports have it that we do not leave on maneuvers until late in August .  The best plan is to live from day to day here because nothing is done according to schedule.  

Since you've taken up horseback riding at such distance stables you might join the Cavalry and ride seven hours a day.  All riding is complimentary and it is not necessary to reimburse the government one dollar for every hour.  

My Aunt (one of them) is going to visit me this week end.  Walt's folks were down yesterday and brought everything from apples to radios.

Goodnight until I hear from you- soon-

As Ever, 

Stan