Dear July 10, 1943 through April 11, 1944

Email Somewhere in Missouri February 8, 2011 1:02AM CST
Dear,
More than a year ago I discovered my mother saved my fathers letters from WWII. They sat until three weeks ago, unread. Since there were so many papers to go through I had considered throwing them away. Thinking it only right, before disposing of them, I should at least read one or two. Learning that my father knew how to write a letter, I continued reading. Realizing there was a story, I began rereading and putting the letters on the computer in the hopes of maybe a best seller that would make me rich. Dreaming of the fortune and intrigued with the evolution of my fathers experience of enlisted life I continued on, plodding through learning how to type and fixing the millions of errors on each page.
Then I got the bright idea to put some of the letters on the blog as anonymous dear letters as well as continuing to add them to the journal as originally planned. The more I read, the more meaningful the story of a married man with child volunteering to fight at a time when the draft did not take married men and fathers.
More, it is the story of being thirty-one and naïve, learning about the world and war.
As I read an type and live the age of WWII I consider my feelings about sharing my fathers communications to my mother with the world, as much of the world that is reading the blog I have begun and I believe the correspondence is valuable as hopefully a tool for someone to learn from. They both lived through the war and we have only his letters to tell the story. The incomplete story of censored mail and guarded feelings, yet through out there is the young man reaching holding and longing to be home while moved to fight for what he believes he must do.
Forty-five thousand words later and I am not half finished but I have decided since the uprising in Egypt that these letters are more important and can do more good right now and being rich and famous is the childhood dream we all have and grow out of every day as we make difficult decisions.
I shall be releasing all the letters, as soon as possible for dial-up.
At some point I will hook the scanner up to this computer and scan some of the pages and enclosures because they will add some reality and flavor to the story. There have been many before us who have given to us and they have taught me the value of sharing and I have learned that lesson.
I cannot say, in good conscience, enjoy what you read but I can hope that you, as I have, will be enriched by the story that is unfolding.
miceLLe
P.S. 3/2/11 It is slow moving. They had what was called Vmail which is a shrunken Photostat that I must read through a magnifying glass. It is nice to know, that this is the age of technology and I can share this quickly with whomever wanders along the path. It is said that we will not have another war such as that, that a bio war is more the preference since it does not destroy the infrastructure. More food for thought.
　
PPSS The transmission changed the format of the letters also the color of the type and underlining. Since there are many more letters I at this time will not change how it transmitted. 　
　
　
　
　
CAMP UPTON, NEW YORKFree mail
****Letterhead: UNITED STATED ARMY SERVICE CLUB
CAMP UPTON, NEW YORK
July 10, 1943
Dear Jean,
It is now 8.45 P.M. and I have just come from attending a concert held here at camp. My right arm is a little sore after receiving two injections, the boys tell me that I will feel it tomorrow, but otherwise no ill effects.
I received a pretty good mark on the I.Q. test, and it seems as if I may receive my rating, but as yet nothing is definite.
How are you and Lucille, I keep thinking of shipped out to Louisiana by Monday, you may write to me here, my address is on the envelope.
Sorry I have to close now when I have so much to say but it's 9.15 and I have to get back to my barracks before the lights go out at 9.30.
Give my best wishes to your Mom - Dad and Joey, Will write soon.
Love  Sal.


Free mail
 (homesick postcard)
July 11, 1943
Hello Jean,
Hope you received the card and letter I sent. I have been kept very busy and don't have much time to write.
Regards to all.
Sal.
　

Free mail UNITED STATED ARMED SERVICES CLUB
CAMP UPTON, NEW YORK
July 12, 1943
Dear Jean,
I trust this letter finds you in the best of health.
I called you from Camp Upton there was such a crowd that I was afraid I was going to get stuck a couple of hours. You know here in camp we have no Saturday or Sunday off. Every day is a work day.
I sent everyone a card, but I forgot to put my number on them, so maybe they didn't receive them but will send them another one soon.
Last night we went and saw Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. It was a swell show.
Every night they have a different form of entertainment.
Well I am getting accustomed to army life. The food is pretty good.
Another thing, before I go any further those needles I received seem to have stiffened my right muscle, and I can't for the life of me seem to improve my handwriting. Everyone here has the same trouble.
I am still here at camp Upton, Eddie, Joey's friend was shipped out last Friday, as a matter of fact most of the boys from Ave X are out of here.
I wish I get out of here, so I can start my basic training.
I am sending you some papers hold on to them you may need them.
Don't send anything until I let you know, I will let you know what I want, the two harmonicas, the set I received from Helen, and the set from Marion and Pete, and instead of sending me the original marriage certificate, get me a photo static copy from the department of health. The marriage certificate, I must have within six months.
Give my regards to your mother and father and Joey, also Helen and Connie, and thank the Grazianos downstairs for me, for permitting me to use their phone.
Take good care of Lucille and yourself, Bye Bye
Love
Sal.
(enclosure Application for National Service Life Insurance $10,000 each for wife and child monthly premium $0.72 also application for War Department Application for Dependency Benefits, wife and child)


Free mail
Post card ' WE ALL HAVE A "GOOD WORD' FOR OUR SARGENT (BUT HE CAUGHT ME USING IT!)
July 15, 1943
Dear Jean,
This is the last card you will get from Camp Upton, I am now on my way will write as soon as I arrive at my new camp. Keep your chin up.
Love Sal.
　
　
　
CAMP CLAIBORNE, LOUISIANAFree mail
UNITED STATES ARMY
CAMP CLAIBORNE, LOUISIANA July 19, 1943
Dear Jean,
I arrived here last night after riding for 3 days and two nights. We all traveled in Pullmans, all along the line people were waving at us it made us all feel so sad. They also had the band playing as we left Camp Upton, and a band to receive us here.
Well it is very hot here in tents, with a mosquito net about us.
We are here for our basic training, and it sure is going to be tough.
I haven't any idea how long I'll be here, but I hope they send me up north some where.
Everyone is very sociable here and I have met quite a few masons also.
We are quarantined here for two weeks, going to get some more needles.
The food is very good here, and we get all we want.
To-day is Sunday, and we don't have to work, but nevertheless we can't leave camp. This camp is tremendous, there are so many soldiers here that it is impossible to estimate the amount. As a matter of fact it is a city within itself.
I missed the package that you sent me, but they will forward it to me.
The first chance I get for a furlough, I will be home but God knows when that will be.
Most of the fellows here are married, and some like I have children.
There isn't much more I can say except to give my regards to Helen, Connie, Joe your dad and mom, all my friends and tell them I won't have much time to write, until my basic training is over.
Well good - bye Jean and take good care of Lucille until that day when I can take care of you both.
Bye Bye
Love
Sal.
　
MY ADDRESS
PVT. SALVATORE ACITO
ASN. 32973273
361 ENGINEERS. CO. C PRIME
CAMP CLAIBORNE, LA.


Free mail envelope postmarked July 15,1943
UNITED STATES ARMY
CAMP CLAIBORNE, LOUISIANA
Dear Jean,
This army life sure is tough, I guess it will toughen me up. It wouldn't be so bad if it wasn't so hot. Everyone here perspires so much, even as I am writing this letter I am perspiring like a pig. To give you a better idea of how hot it is here is an example, I washed my undershirt this morning and hung it out to dry, in exactly five minutes it was completely dry.
Another thing you wanted Frank and Larry to put dates on their letter, well listen we in camp don't even know what day it is, much less the month and date. Everything here just keeps rolling, all days are the same, on some of the letters I have written you I thought I had the right date and then found out I was wrong.
Have you heard from Frank and Larry yet. Has my brother Danny come back yet, if so let him write to me.
Give my best wishes to Pete and Marion, also Louis and Millie, not forgetting the Grazianos, and all my friends to numerous to mention here. Bye Bye and don't forget to write.
Your husband
Sal.


Free mail UNITED STATED ARMY
CAMP CLAIBORNE, LOUISIANA July 21, 1943
Dear Jean,
I haven't received any of your mail yet, not even the package. I should be getting it soon, I hope; The only thing we fellows talk about down here is the weather. It was 128 degrees(symbol) to-day.
Some of the fellows here had to march eleven miles, then go into a gas attack, then march back.
Nine of the fellows had to drop out, they were human wrecks.
Incidentally most of the fellows here are volunteers. It reminds us of the French foreign legion.
We are still living in tents; matter of fact I am sitting outside the tent now writing to you, and it is thundering which means we may have some rain.
To-day they showed us how to dismantle the rifle and assemble it again, very interesting indeed. It is going to rain any minute now,.
How are you Jean, and how is the baby. How is every one else. Will you send me the camera I got from Sonny. I know it is hard to get films, but we here in camp cannot get any films of any kind. Don't send the camera if you can't get any films.
We are kept very busy here and we don't get any time to write. Soon as I start my basic training I won't have anytime at all to write. So don't worry if you don't here from me often. I will receive your letters nevertheless.
Love
Sal.


Free mail
Eagle insignia stationery
July 24, 1943
Dear Jean,
I finally received the package that you sent. Thanks a lot. Everything was in fine shape.
I sent you a few letters but have not received any from you. That's because I was not able to get to the mail man on mail call.
Here they call out mail at 12.30 P.M. and at six thirty. They keep us so busy that we can't get the mail.
To-night I am on guard duty. I came on at 5PM and don't get off till 5PM the following day. It is now 1 P.M.
How is Frank making out, also Larry have you heard from them recently.
To-day we were issued our rifle and bayonet. This Monday, we start our basic training. This training is the toughest part of the army. We are on twenty-four hour duty. In other words we can be called out of bed after an hours sleep.
I will let you know more about it as I go through it.
In any event, as I've told you before, I may not be able to write. But you continue to write.
The sargent of the guard just came in an we all have to fall-out. So long Love to all, especially you and Lucille,
Your husband
Sal.


Free mail eagle insignia letterhead July 26, 1943
Dear Jean,
I have been receiving your letters regularly, matter of fact you are the only person I have received any letter from at all.
In one of your letters you said that you would like to come down here.
Well let me give you some information about this place, I didn't want to tell you but I guess I'll have to.
First of all the weather is always hot averages between 110 degree symbol and 130 degree symbol. Your clothes are wet of perspiration all day, and I mean wet. At dinner and supper we all sweat so much that you would think we had taken a bath and forgotten to dry ourselves. Another thing these soldiers are dropping out by the dozens from heat prostration. I believe Winchell summed it up better than I can ever do. He calls it, " The Alcatraz of the South."
I guess that's enough about Louisiana.
I'm sorry I won't be able to call you up, it costs about $3.65 for three minutes. I'll keep writing instead
Another thing, I may be here for another 5 weeks only and then get shipped to another camp. I just hope they ship me to a northern camp. Something else before I forget leave the Prime off the address, it is just Co C.
Well so long and write soon.
Take care of Lucille, don't worry about her cold.
Love
Sal.


Free mail
UNITED STATES ARMY
CAMP CLAIBORNE, LOUISIANA
July 28, 1943
Dear Jean,
I have been receiving your letters regularly, I hope you have been receiving mine. Of course I can't write you every day, you wanted to know my routine well here it is.
We rise and shine at 5.30 A.M. we are allowed ten minutes to get up, dress, wash, make our beds, and sweep our place out, by the way I am living in barracks now, and its much better.
At 5.40A.M. we have roll call and God help any one who doesn't answer to his name.
At 6.00 A.M. we have breakfast, It takes us about fifteen minutes for breakfast. The rest of the time we go back to our barracks to get every clean for inspection.
At 7.00A.M/ we do policing meaning, we clean the grounds of match sticks paper, etc.
7.30A.M. we have calisthenics until 8A.M.
At 8A. M we drill for an hour, then we get ten minutes off to have a smoke, incidentally I have the same kind of rifle that Larry has, a Garand it weighs about ten lbs.
At 9A.M we get a lecture on marksmanship, and military courtesy, we get a ten minute rest period every hour.
Ten to twelve we drill some more then lunch.
We are allowed one hour for lunch period.
At one A.M. we do some more drilling, at two a lecture on how to dismantle, and assemble the rifle.
Three to five we do some more drilling, meanwhile we are soaking wet all the time.
Another thing we are not permitted to drink any water from eight AM to 10.30 AM we are allowed one drink till noon, at noon time we are permitted to drink all we want, In the after-noon we are permitted one drink at three o'clock and no more until five PM. After five we may drink all we wish.
We also are compelled to take 3 to six salt tablets a day, so we won't de-hydrate.
This Camp Claiborne is the toughest camp in the country. The weather hovers between 110 to 130 (degree symbol) all day.
Another thing the Engineers is the second highest branch of service, first comes the air corps. In other words, we can't transfer to any other branch.
To get back to my routine, at five we quit, we have to take a shower, shave, shine our shoes, and be ready for supper at six. At six thirty we have mail call which lasts till 8 o'clock, now I realize what it means to be in the army and not receive mail.
At 8 PM we go back to our barracks to clean our rifle and our rifle have to be spick span, or we will get some extra work to do.
At 9PM I sit down to write a letter, and it is now 10.15, I have 45 minutes to go before they turn the lights out, and every one must be in bed.
We have about the same routine every day; excepting Saturday and Sunday, Saturday one of us will have to do K.P., and that really is work, we start at 5A.M. and don't finish till 9.30 at night, after a day at K.P. one is so tired that he just falls in bed and stay there.
Then we have guard duty, that's another killer, we are on duty 24 hours, we are on guard two hours and off 4 hours.
If we don't yet any detail on Sunday, we are off, which is rare.
Monday we start the same routine, with slight variations.
You can plainly see that we haven't much time for ourselves.
Everyone here hopes to be sent north after basic training which lasts about 5 weeks. Of course we don't know where we'll be sent, some of the fellows may even be sent across. I don't believe they will send me across for about a year. But within a year this war will be all over. And we'll all be coming home, Frank Larry and I, and everyone else we know in the service.
Don't send me any cookies or candy, because it is cheaper to buy everything here, all sodas are a nickel, candy an chewing gum are four cents.
The only thing I would like to have is the camera, with some films, I realize it is very difficult to buy films in the city, so if you can't buy any just forget about it.
Tell Joey, I said thanks for the gift, I didn't receive it yet.
Give my best regards to Marion and Pete, Louis and Millie and everyone else.
It is now 10.45 Jean, and I have only a few minutes to close this letter, undress and go to bed.
How is Lucille coming along, her cold all-right, and how are you.
Another thing quite a few of the sargents here are masons, but it doesn't mean a thing. I am still on my own, and if I expect any stripes I will have to work very hard to get them.
I now have ten minutes so take care of yourself and don't worry, everything will be allright, Best regards to your Mon and Dad, Joey, Your aunts and cousins, Helen, Connie, and the whole gang. So Long
Your husband
Sal.
　
*****
Free mail
Eagle insignia
August 8, 1943
Dear Jean,
I have been receiving your letters regular, as a matter of fact it tales only one day for your letter to reach me, to-day I received one post marked the 7^th that's pretty good service. How long does it take for my letters to reach you? I have been sending them regularly, I hope you have been receiving them.
Don't you worry about me, this is a tough grind, but I think I can make it, although the heat gets me once in a while. It makes me lose all my pep.
I told you we were going to be sent to Columbus, Ohio after my basic, which I should finish in about 4 or 5 weeks.
When I am in Columbus I will be able to get a furlough and come home, and I'll do just that at the first opportunity.
I don't believe it would be possible for you to go there, didn't Ruby tell you the lousy time she had in Pittsburg. Well it would be much worse in Ohio.
You talk about me being in the army, as if I enjoy being here, you know darn well, that I wish I were home where I belong, taking care of you and the baby.
I was very sorry to hear about Edith, also that she lost the baby, but I hope she pulls out of it allright.
Concerning the Raleigh people, you may do what you think best I'll leave it up to you.
I was glad to hear that you visited my aunt and uncle, I drop them a line once in awhile. Mary Acito wrote and told me that my uncle was working on the ship yard I'm glad to hear that, it will give him a chance to make some money.
I also received a letter from Frank Quercia, and I answered it right away, I was glad to hear from him.
I sometimes think that if people knew what the soldiers go through, they would write more often, you should see them at the end of a hard hot day of frilling and crawling in the mud, soaking wet and filthy, you could knock them down with a feather, but as soon as the y hear mail call they run like hell, to be the first one there, if they receive mail their faces brighten up and they are new men, the men you've people back home knew, if they don't receive any, well I rather not describe that, I'll just let it go at that.
I believe I wrote to you letting you know that I asked Danny for money, well I wrote later to Roy asking him to send me some, when I found out that Danny was still in Africa.
Well I hate to ask you this, but I'm afraid Roy won't answer me, but I need some money bad. I am running out of writing paper, and I can't buy any cigarettes, so if you can spare any send it along. If you have to borrow it. I will try to repay it as soon as I get paid. I haven't received any yet and I won't get any till Sept. It really hurts me to have to write for money, especially when I used to criticise others who did.
Don't tell your mother this, but Frank is in a real tough outfit. He's in the combat engineers, and they really give them the works. My outfit is tough now, but when we go to Columbus, we will have it pretty easy, as a matter of fact we are non-combat. We handle all of the parts that the engineers need, if they need a part for a tank, rifle, truck, machine gun or any part at all we make sure they get it, we will be working in a supply depot. This is an outfit composed entirely of clerical workers. And we are getting the works, so as to harden us up.
Larry I believe is in the toughest outfit of them all, the marines carry respect wherever they go, and they are giving a good account of themselves.
We honestly believe that this war will be over sooner than people expect, I think the same as Frank does. I hope to god we are right.
You notice I have been writing all my letters in pencil, and you know how much I was against that, but ink is scarce; and even if I get a bottle I have to keep it in my barrack bag, and it will spill all over my clothes, therefore you have to excuse the pencil.
Well take care of yourself and Lucille, and give my best wishes to your Dad, Mom, Joey, Graziano the rest, and tell them all I hope to see them soon.
Love
*****

 

Sal.

Free mail
ARMY AND NAVY
MASONIC SERVICE CENTER
July 31, 1943
Dear Jean,
Here it is Saturday and they gave me a sixteen hour pass, so I have come to Alexandria. There really isn't much to this city.
The entire city is filled with soldiers. Prices are sky high. It seems as if everyone here is trying to get rich on the soldiers. It is a discouraging fact. In New York City it is entirely different, the soldiers really get a break there.
I am now writing from the Masonic temple. it's a great place, and everyone treats us swell. They have all forms of entertainment here. Ping Pong, pool tables checkers, writing paper, books , magazines etc, and its all free.
I have told you in recent letters of conditions at Camp Claiborne, it is a hell hole and I'm not kidding, another thing I have been transferred to another company, and after I get my basic training I believe I will be sent to Columbus, Ohio, at least I hope so, note my new address.
The weather down here is still very hot, as I am writing my hands are all wet from perspiration. Here's a tip to pass on to any friends who are thinking of going to this camp, tell them what I said about it, and to steer clear of it.
My new outfit is one of the toughest there is, I am still with the Engineers but I am in the Parts Supply. I believe I thought that when I finish my basic, I will be set pretty good.
How is Lucille, much better? How is your mother and dad, and Joey.
I haven't received any letters from anyone yet, not that I care though, as long as I hear from you. Just keep on writing. You may not hear from me for the next couple of days., as I want to write to your brothers Larry and Frank. It takes quite a bit of my time to write these letters. I don't get any other time to read the papers, as a matter of fact very few soldiers read the papers, but we saw the headlines, that Mussolini has quit, and that Italy will make peace, that's a good sign and I really believe that this war is going to end sooner than we all think.
We'll all be home soon so until then keep your chin up.
Love
Sal


Greetings from Alexandria La postcardFree mail August I, 1943
Hello,
This is one time I can't say having a swell time wish you were here. Instead having a terrible time, wish I was in New York.
Sal.
　
　
　
　
　
Free mail
UNITED STATES ARMY
CAMP CLAIBORNE, LOUSIANA
August 5, 1943
Dear Jean,
Since I was transferred to this new company, I have to start my basic training all over again, some of fellows who were transferred with me had had 4 weeks of basic, and now they have to start all over again.
I believe through that I will get about 5 or 6 weeks more of this and will be sent Columbus, Ohio, I think that is about 800 miles from New York. I will go to school there for six weeks, and they tell me that after that I may get a furlough. I hope so.
This darn army life is tough and I don't mean maybe. I wrote to Frank and Larry, but I guess it will be quite awhile before I get an answer.
I received a letter from Mary Acito, but as yet I don't know if Danny is home or not.
There isn't much change in the weather here, it has been terribly holt, and we haven't had any rain for a long time.
To-day I am on K. P. got through pretty fast so they gave us an hour off, and I am in my barracks writing this letter.
The days here don't seem to pass, they just drag and drag; I am in the army a month and it seems as if I have been here a life time. It isn't the army life that's bad, it's the darn heat, its allright for the natives, because they are very slow moving, but we in the army are always doing things in quick time.
Now I can understand why you didn't receive so many letters from Larry and Frank, I am surprised how they were able to write at all. People don't believe it, but a soldier has so many things to do on his off time that he has no time at all to write letters.
I explained my routine in the last letter, now I will tell you what we have to do at night.
We stop drilling at 4.45 P.M. we have to shave take a shower change into our khakis, clean our rifles, shine our shoes, and be out for inspection of our clothes and rifles by 5.40 P.M. This is called retreat, or the lowering of the flag.
After supper, we stand outside the mess hall waiting for the mail call, if we receive any its well worth it, if we don't well its just too bad. After mail call we go back to our barracks and get ready for to-morrow.
While we are doing this we are all perspiring like pigs, our khakis are soaking wet and you can see streaks of white on our shirts, which is the salt coming out of our systems. That's the reason they make us take six salt tablets a day.
And to think I used to complain about the heat in New York. Anyone of the soldiers here would give their right arm to be back in New York.
I just hope that this darn war ends soon, its got us all batty down here.
How are you and Lucille; before I forget, they told us here that if you ever need any help go to the army emergency relief, and don't be ashamed, because that money was raised by soldiers, and it belongs to the soldiers, and not the government.
I think I may as well let you know that I wrote to Roy and told him to tell Danny if he is home to send me ten dollars, I couldn't write and ask you, as I know you haven't any.
I haven't received any pay since I have been in the army and won't get any until the first of September. That's the reason I'm broke, and its tough to be broke in the army.
Well Jean, how is your dad feeling; and your mother and Joey. Is everything allright. Give my regards to Connie, Helen Pete, Marion, Louis, Millie, Charlie, and Teresa, and everyone else.
Your husband
Sal.
　
　
　
Free mail August 10, 1943
Dear Jean,
Haven't you been receiving my letters, How long does it take for my letter to reach you. I have been sending you one practically every day. I have been receiving yours regularly. Thanks a lot.
Its been raining all say, but yet we had to drill in it, and we were soaking wet, Then they had us march a few miles in the mud, and we sure looked like the dickens. We were also on the obstacle course to-day, we have to jump over fences, in and out of trenches then climb rope ladders and come down, we had to scale a six foot fence, then climb up a pole, and slide down on a rope. It was a tough day, but I made it. Naturally every day it gets tougher. To-morrow we enter the gas chamber, I will let you know about that in my next letter.
You want my advice about Red and his wife, well this is it, they can both go to hell. You do what you think is best, and don't worry about anyone, because they don't mean a dam. This army gives everyone a different point of view.
I received a letter from my cousin Jimmy, and he seems to like the army, that is one thing I can't understand, because everyone here hates it, and we are waiting for the day to come when all over the world people will yell and shout, Armistice!
I didn't receive the package yet, but I'll let you know as soon as I do. Thank your mother and Joey for me, also your dad, by the way how is he feeling any better.
I told you we were going to Columbus, now you know you can't come out there, and anyway I'll be coming home on furlough in a couple of months.
I haven't received any pay yet, and if I knew you were that bad off I wouldn't have written to you asking for money. I also told you that if you need any help to go to Army Relief, they are supposed to help you. In any event you should receive an allotment in September.
Well isn't getting late, and I still have to clean my rifle, shave, shine my shoes, and take a shower, and I haven't much time to do it in, before I close I want to let you know that I just wrote a letter to Pete and Marion they should receive it the same time you do.
Give my regards to all
Love
Sal.



Free mail
August 13, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received the package, also the two dollars you sent. Thanks a lot, and thank Joey and your Mom and Dad. I am sorry to say that the macaroni was bad, and it looked so good too. Advise your mother not to send any to Frank or Larry. Everyone in the barracks was bunched around me waiting to eat it, and they were very disappointed.
I also received $5.00 from Roy, so don't send me any money as I believe I have enough for awhile. I also received the camera, films and Joey gift.
Don't expect to hear from me as often as you have, I am surprised how I am writing this to-night. We all had a tough day. We had to hike four miles with a 60 lbs pack and a rifle weighing 12 lbs. The sun was playing havoc with us all day. It took us one hour to go on skirmishes. Yesterday we went into the gas chamber and they had us take off our mask, our eyes were burning and tearing, then they gave us a taste of all different gases, so that we will be able to recognize them if they are ever used by the enemy.
You were talking about a baby carriage, that I will leave up to you, as long as you don't touch any money, you know what I mean. We are going to Columbus to be taught manes of the different parts and to get us acquainted with our work. We will get six or seven weeks of that. This camp in Louisiana is only a basic training center; and believe you me its hell. I am so black form sun tan that you wouldn't recognize me. I will be seeing you on my furlough. Best wishes and lots of luck, and take good care of Lucille.
Your husband
Sal.



ARMY AND NAVY
MASONIC SERVICE CENTER stationery
August 15, 1943
Dear Jean,
Have been receiving your letters as usual, sorry that it takes so long for my letters to reach you.
To-day is Saturday, so I an in Alexandria, I spend most of my time here in the Masonic center, they have quite a place here. Two pool tables, writing desks, ink and paper, all sorts of games, and a library, they really treat us swell, its the only place we receive decent treatment.
To-morrow if I get a chance I will take some pictures, and soon as they are developed I will send them to you.
This basic training is getting tougher as the days go by, we don't mind the toughness if it wasn't so darn hot, the weather really gets is al down,
Sometimes we have to stand at attention in the hot sun for what seem hours, but actually it is fifteen minutes, the perspiration is making our eyes smart and are our clothes are soaking wet, yet we can't make a move to wipe the sweat, They tell us this is to teach us discipline, we say they are trying to break our spirit/ Well they are doing a good job if it.
I received a letter from Tony and Jimmy, I also received one from you aunt. I answered Tony and Jim and to-night I am going to write to Angie and give her a piece of my mind for not writing to her brother, he might be awfully lonely.
How does your father feel? Any better, and your mother is she all-right.
Frank and Larry are going through hell all-right, but don't let your mother know. The only reason I am telling you and Joey this is because I want you and him to write as often as possible to them. That's the only thing which will keep their courage going.
I know just how they feel, because I am going through the same thing, so keep writing often to the three of us, if necessary see that they get theirs first, as they need it more than, I, they are overseas, I an not. Helen probably understands, but remind her anyway, of what I just told you.
This war is going to be over sooner than we think, and when we do come back, some body is going to pay for it, and pay dearly, we won't forget so easily.
I am sorry if this letter makes you feel bad, but I think its best that I tell you these things, so you can understand.
I sent my sister one card, I doubt if I will send her any more, unless she writes to me.
Its 10.30 P.M now and this place closes at 11PM. So I will have to sign off but I do, I want to let you know that cigarettes in Camp are 12 1/2(cents sign) a pack, its here in Alexandria that they cost 21(cents sign).
I want to repeat again that if my letters should stop. Don't worry as we expect to go nm bivouac, that is they take us into a forest and make us live there for three or four days, with out coming into contact with anyone. While I'm free I will routine to write.
Give my best wishes to all, and keep on taking good care of Lucille.
Your
Sal.
P.S. Take good care of yourself too.



Free mail
(eagle and cross insignia on envelope, eagle insignia on letterhead)
August 16,1943
Dear Jean,
I am trying to wrote as many letters as I possibly can, to make up for the time when I shall not be able to write, and the time is drawing near.
I got back from Alexandria about 12.30 P.M. Sunday, I had to sleep on the floor in the U.S.O. club. No one is able to get a place to sleep on Saturday night. I had to lunch in the camp, and right after got to work on my rifle. My rifle was pretty rusty so I had to work on it three hours. The perspiration was just pouring down on me, words can't describe it.
After that I tool some pictures and I am having them developed. It will take about two weeks. The service here is very poor. Soon as I get them , if they come out, I will send them to you.
I am now going into my third week of basic, and it gets tougher as we go along. Soon we will have to crawl on our stomachs, as they shoot real machine gun bullets over our head, Then they will have us marching along the road, and time bombs will go off all around us, as long as we stay in the center we won't get hurt.
I was out on the rifle range and will send you the target in a few days, I did fair, but I could have done better. Will send it along in the next letter, Give my regards to everyone, will write again at the first opportunity.
Love
Sal.


(ditto eagle etc..)
August 16, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received your letter, also the five dollars you sent, Thanks a lot. Don't send any more as I believe I have enough till pay-say. If I need any thing I will let you know.
To-day we had an easy say for a change, they taught us how to pitch tents in the morning, in the afternoon we went to see a movie short on rifle marksmanship, after that we had a class on tank identification. Most of us know less now about tanks than we did before class, the reason for that is that they are trying to cram everything. They don't give us a chance to concentrate on one thing,. There is one thing I can say for my outfit. Is that it is one of the best, when it comes to frilling and general work, we have won an excellence pennant for the past 8 weeks. That's the reason this outfit is so tough, the commanding officer wants to keep that pennant.
I can't find the target that I was going to send you, will send it as soon as I find it. To-morrow we go no the rifle range, and we will spend the entire day there, we will have to eat out of our mess kits, and we will be allowed one canteen of water. Will let you know how I make out, I don't epect to get such a good mark. As I have difficulty in getting the right position.
Didn't Pete and Marion receive my letter? I sent the m one. I will write them another one at the first opportunity. I have written to almost everyone I know.
I just got through cleaning my rifle, then I took a shower, here we clean rifles and take a shower every night, and after I get through with this letter I have to shave, another chore which has to be done every night.
There isn't much more that I can tell you about as you are up to-date with my activities.
I haven't heard from Frank and Larry yet, but I know how long it takes for mail to travel to them, If I get a chance I'll write to them again. Those boys are certainly going through something, but its not only them. that's true for everyone all over the world.
The popular opinion here is that we will beat Germany in six months, after that Japan will collapse, as the combined strength of the U.S. England, and Russia will be to much for her.
So keep your chin up, and before you know it we'll all be back home again.
So until then take care of yourself and Lucille, and give your mother and dad, and Joey some strength.
Till the next letter
Love
Sal.


ARMY AND NAVY
MASONIC SERVICE CENTER
August 15, 1943
Dear Joe,
I received your letter and gift and wish to say thanks a lot. This South sure is a hell hole, especially camp Claiborne. Its so darn hot here. But no matter how bad it is here, Harry and Frank are going thru hell you can take it from me, don't tell your mother, what I just told you.
So don't forget to write to both of them, as they need plenty of encouragement and write to them often.
We soldiers don't get much time to write, we are kept so darn busy, that we have all to do to keep ourselves and rifles clean, and we and the rifles must be kept clean or else we will get some extra work to do.
Here they worry more about the rifles than the men.
Well Joe I'm glad to hear you are making out all-right in school, keep up the good work.
Droop me a line when you have time and I will do my best to answer you right away.
Best regards to all.
Your Brother in-law
Sal.



(three 2 cents United Nations Nations United for victory stamps - air mail)
(eagle insignia)
August 18, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received your letter of the 16^th to-day, I also received a letter from Pete and Ade. I am sorry to hear that it takes so long for my letters to reach you. But there is nothing I can do about it, as it would be too expensive to send them air mail. I caught a cold the first day I came down here, but since I haven't, I weigh about the same, although my appetite has doubled.
What you want to do concerning Lucille is up to you as you are the one raising her, that also goes for the homework, its entirely up to you.
We were out on the rifle range yesterday, but I didn't do so good, About three o'clock we got a dust storm, it's a terrible thing, dust everywhere we had all to do to breathe. Then we had a rain storm and we had to march back, about three miles. We slushed through puddles, and mud, we looked as of we had been through a battle.
When you go to see Marion tell them I am sorry to hear they're not feeling well, I haven't time now, but I will drop them a line this week.
I received a letter from Roy, with another five dollars in it, I appreciate it very much. Don't send me any money as I think I have enough till pay-day.
It will take about two weeks for me to get the pictures developed, all I tool was one roll, I want to make sure the camera is all-right, before I take the rest. Will send them as soon as I get them.
To-day was an easy day, in the morning we went to the obstacle course, I wrote about that course in one of my previous letters. Then we had close order drill with rifles. In the afternoon we had sports and a movie. All these movies are training shorts, not dramas.
This Saturday we are going on a 8 mile hike with a full pack and rifle. This won't be so bad, but what we do dread is the twenty mile hike which we will get in the last week of basic, We can't wait for this basic to end. It is a grueling workout, and there's no way to get out it neither. Its an experience which very few soldiers talk about, they are better off forgetting it anyway.
So far I have been able to take anything this army can dish out, but I can't say anything foe whats coming. I just hope I can take it.
Well so-long Jean and give my best wishes to everyone. Its so hot here that this pen dries up as I am writing, its hard to believe but its true.
Love
Sal.
P.S. Don't send any stamps they stick together.



Free mail August 21, 1943
Sat nite 6.15 P.M.
Dear Jean,
Received your letter, with your mothers picture in the papers, I was glad to receive it, It seems as if she is losing weight, is she?
I also received the pictures you sent awhile ago. Tell your mother not to feel bad about the macaroni, its so hot here that everything goes bad, We have the same conditions here as in Africa, that's the reason I advised her not to send any to Frank & Larry.
Well yesterday we went out on the range again, and I feel better because I received a much better score, my shooting improved 100%. These rifles have such a kick, that it seems as if your shoulder is being knocked off.
You asked how the rifles get rusty. Well, this company doesn't use the Garand, we using rifles from the last war, this is only temporary, as we will soon be getting automatic Carbines, these rifles which the cowboy's use on the range . To get back to my rifle, when we say rusty we don't exactly mean rust, one spot like a dot (circle with dot in it), is considered rust in the army. The weather is so damp that every thing rusts.
This ends my third week of basic, Thank God, all we have is two more, then Columbus.
You should be receiving an allotment soon, although I haven't received any pay yet.
To-day we went on a hike, and attack, we had to run with our gas masks on, breathing through a mask is tough enough, but when you have to run with it on, well that takes the cake. In the afternoon we went to the camouflage area, They showed us how to dig fox holes, and how to hide planes and different types of cannon.
This weekend I am staying in the camp, there's no sense going to town if the prices are so high.
In one of the letters you wanted to know if the fellow who delivered meat to Ferro's, was the mason well he is . His name is Jim Dodson. Another thing I met a fellow here whom I know from N.Y. butchers, he used to work in the office, he's in 757 Engrs, he is located right next door from us.
I also wrote a couple of letters to boys from my place, but I haven't received an answer yet.
We had a picture taken here of the entire company, soon as I get it I will send it on to you.
I received a letter from Tony and he said they may let him out of the army, because they are re-classifying all men in limited service. I hope he succeeds.
Well Jean I have to close now and don't worry, because I'll be home on furlough sooner than you think, and don't let anyone tell you that it will be five or six months, because we know different.
So long and give my best to your Dad, mom, Joey and the baby.
Your husband
Sal.



(UNITED STATEDS OF AMERICA 6 cents air mail stamp)
August 23, 1943
Monday
Dear Jean,
I received four letters yesterday and I am going to try to answer them all to-night. One from you, one from Tony, Frank Guercia and Pete & Marion. I was very glad to hear from all of you. Oh yes about an hour ago I received a letter from Charlie, I'll try to answer him also.
Last night I went to the open air theatre herein camp, and I saw the Gay Desperado, it was a fair show. In this camp we don't have much entertainment, that is near my outfit. They have some good entertainment on camp. But I would have to walk about five miles.
The weather is still hot, and no signs of a let up. You should see how tan I am, well you'll see when I send you the company picture, you won't have much trouble finding me as I am at the extreme left, seated I the second row.
You'll receive it some day next week.
Yes I guess this war will be over sooner that we expect, watch for something to happen on the next six months. After that the whole war will collapse.
I haven't received an answer from Frank or Larry yet, but I expect one soon.
How is everything home, coming along all-right. Glad to hear that Joey is getting along swell in his work. Tell him to keep up the good work.
Well so long Jean and give my best wishes to everyone.
Your husband
Sal.
P.S. Don't send any stamps as they stick to-gether. If I need any I will let you know.





Free mail
(A distinctive hotel offering real hospitality.
Three hundred rooms
Bentley Hotel
Convenient to everywhere
Alexandria, LA.
South's finest most modern air conditioned hotel
Coleman J. Hudson, secretary and manager)
August 29, 1943
Dear Jean,
I have been receiving your letters every day. I also received one from Frank Quercia, and Pete and Marion. I also received the five dollars which you sent from my uncle, if you see him tell him I said Thanks a lot. I will also try to write him a letter to-day.
Well this has been a hard and busy week, I haven't had a minute to myself. First we went out on the rifle range, I did much better this time, I got marksman, I just missed making sharpshooter two points. Its good enough for awhile. The following day we went out to the tank area, they had us seek shelter, all we could find were tree stumps and grass, then they were right on top of us and them we had to roll over. If anyone got excited and started to run, these tanks would chase you all over the area. It was really scary affair.
The following day we had the much dreaded hike. We had worked hard all day, there at night at 7.00 PM we started. It was a fourteen mile hike. It got dark about 8 oclock then the fun started. It was impossible to see the face of the one in front or the rear, and the only means of identification we had was the pass-word. We were carrying a rifle and a pack on our back, we were permitted one canteen of water, and nothing to eat. We had to be very quiet, no one was permitted to even talk. It was simulated actual war conditions. We had walked about 8 miles when they gave us a gas attack, we had to put on our gas masks and run like the dickens. While we wee doing this land mines were exploding all around us, it is something which no soldier will ever forget, Everyone in my company completed the hike on foot, and our officer was very proud of us, I can't say the dame for the other companies. As they had quite a few who dropped out. They had trucks and ambulances for those unable to continue.
All in all it a tough but interesting week.
I am sending you a package with my sweater and some pictures in it .The pictures didn't come out so good, but I will take some more.
Don't let the writing paper fool you. My friend and I had to sleep on the floor in the U.S.O. club, we got up about six oclock, and walked around, it is now 8A.M. He suggested we go into this hotel to write some letter, it's a classy place so far no one has thrown us out, so it seems as if I will be able to finish this letter.
The rumors here are that we will leave for Columbus by the 15^th of Sept. we all hope its true, as we are disgusted with the whole state of lousy iana, that how we soldiers pronounce it.
Your father said something about me getting a discharge. There is no such thing as I am in active service, not limited service, I had the doctors here look at ,y ear, and they said its all healed, and that I would not have any trouble with it.
Well Jean give my best wishes to everyone, and don't expect the package for about a week, Take care of yourself and Lucille
Your husband
Sal.



Free mail
(enclosure target score card) August 30, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received your letter with Frank's address and will write to him soon.
You seem to have a mistaken idea that I will not be sent overseas. What ever gave you that idea? I'm not trying to frighten you, but as I told you I am in active service, and after all there is a possibility. Ninety percent of the soldiers are training for overseas duty. Otherwise how is this war going to end.
I will get quite a bit of training before they even consider sending me across.
Nevertheless I would much rather have you prepared for just such eventuality.
To-day I also received a letter from Helen and Larry De Vito. Tell Helen I will answer her at the first opportunity. Also thank her for writing me. To-day I also went out on the rifle range and am enclosing my score card, you may not understand it, but my score was 147, it is a qualifying mark, but not as good as the last time. My old record still stands however.
My basic is drawing to a close with 5 more days to go. We expect this week to be a tough one. We may be leaving for Columbus about Sept 15, so we are told.
The package is being sent out with this letter, in it are photos of the company, those I took and the one on horseback.
It is getting very dark out here now and I can hardly see the lines on this paper, so I will close with best wishes to Joey, Helen, Connie, Danolfo family and last but not least your mom dad, Lucille and yourself.
Your Husband
Sal.
P.S. It is pitch dark now.



Free mail Monday
Sept 6, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received your letter of Sat. glad to hear you went to see my aunt, also that Roy promised a high chair, for the baby.
We have just had some bad news here, we had expected to leave for Columbus in two weeks, now we have been told that we start on advance basic training which may last for 8 more weeks. It has us all disgusted.
The time has come when you will not be hearing from me so often, This Friday night we are going on a ten mile hike, and we are going to sleep in the woods, we will be there for a few days and nights. Explain to Helen that I May not be able to answer her letter for a while.
I received a letter from Pete and Marion, I doubt if I will be able to answer him or not.
In reference to my picture, I may be a little thinner, but it is all muscle now, mo excessive fat. I eat twice as much as I used to and the meals are well balanced. Did you receive the pictures that I tool with the camera. I just took another roll and I am going to try to get them developed here, send the roll to you.
About the allotment, I don't know how that works, you should try to get that information from the war department.
There is one thing I would like to ask you for, if you can get it in New York, that is a dollar pocket watch, I've tried to buy it here, but no success. If you have trouble getting it, just don't bother.
To-night it is raining, and when it rains here it really rains. All you see are torrents of water rushing in all directions, tomorrow morning it will be absolutely dry, there will be no signs of rain at all.
I am glad you realize that I may be sent overseas, although that possibility is very remote at present. I am now in this army two months and it seems as if I were here two years, I sympathize with Frank and Larry who have been in the last couple of years. I just shudder when I think of it.
I never realize what sort of an outfit Frank and Larry was in until I got into the army. They should have some pretty good stories to tell when its all over.
Well Jean its getting late and I have some work to do so I will close with love, also best wishes to all.
Your husband
Sal.
　


Free mail Thursday
Sept 9, 1943
Dear Jean,
I realize that to-morrow is our anniversary, and I am sorry that I can not send you some remembrance. Not even a card, as we are not permitted to leave the camp this weekend, that is so to make certain that all are present for the twenty mile hike which we start to-morrow, we are going to camp in the forest, and return Sunday morning.
We heard over the radio that Italy has signed an armistice, it made us all feel good, now we are pretty sure that Germany will fall very soon, Japan will follow the rest.
As I told you in my previous letter, we are starting advanced basic training, and we will not be going to Columbus for quite awhile yet. When we are ready to go, we are not allowed to leave this area, nor are we permitted to write any letters, so if in the future you don't hear from me for two weeks you will know that I am being sent to Ohio. That day can't come too soon, It is still very hot here, but they tell me it begins to cool off in October.
Yesterday we were taught map and compass reading, they took us out in the woods and had us travel by compass only, it was very interesting, though a bit complicated.
You asked me if they play any tricks on the boys here, well, most of them are very serious minded, and very rarely do they joke around, this camp does something to you. Everyone seems to have a hard face. Its no joke this Camp Claiborne.
How is every one home, your mom and dad all-right, how is Joey and Lucille.
Give my best wishes to everyone, and lets hope when our next anniversary comes around that we will be to-gether again.
Your husband
Sal.
P.S. I may receive the package you sent.




3-2cents Nations united for victory stamps
Air mail) Sunday
Sept 12, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received the package you sent, also your letter and anniversary card. The writing paper will come in very handy, and the salami tasted very good. I also received a carton of cigarettes from Roy, all of which makes me very grateful to everyone one.
In your last letter you seemed worried about my welfare, you need not as I am well able to tale care of myself.
We just got back from a twenty mile hike. We bivouacked in the woods for two nights and one day. We had to do quite a bit of guard duty while there, meanwhile the only thing wrong with me is that I am full of mosquito and chigger bites.
We had a party a few nights ago in honor of our high ratings in the basic training tests, I will send you the program in a different envelope. At the party we learned definitely that we going to Columbus soon, we figure in two or three weeks, don't forget what I told you, if you don't hear from me, as we are not permitted to write when we are about to be shipped, also try to remember that we have lot of work to do. Sometimes we have to do extra detail at night, that doesn't leave us any time at all to ourselves.
This week we go on the infiltration course, we have to crawl under real machinegun fire, but don't worry as the guns are set to fire thirty inches over us. They just want to give us a baptism of fire.
When I got in this army I was afraid it was to tough for me. Now I feel differently, I can take any-damn thing they care to dish out.
I just heard over the radio that the fifth army is on its way to Salerno, that's the outfit that Franks in, and a good outfit it is , you watch them tear through Italy and Berlin, and within six months you will see an armistice.
Frank, Larry and I will be home shortly thereafter. We can all picture that parade up Fifth Avenue. That is one parade we are not going to miss.
The last few days have been cool, and we hope it continues that way, Its hard to believe that only last week it was 130(degree symbol) We are all tickled to get out of this hell-hole, officers and privates alike. That's all you hear the boys talking about, anyone would think that Columbus was Shangri- La. It would bring most of us nearer to home, and that's what we want. We will also get a furlough from there.
Please explain to everyone how difficult it is for me to answer their letters, especially Helen, I'll do my best to answer her this week.
Remember me to every one, your dad, mom, Joey, Helen, Connie, and Pete and Marion.
Take care of yourself and Lucille, and cease worrying about me.
Your loving husband
Sal.


(United States of America 6cents air mail stamp)
(enclosure War Dept Office of dependency benefits postcard)
Monday
Sept 13, 1943
Dear Jean,
I sent you a letter yesterday, and I hope you have received it.
To-day I am doing K.P. we got through pretty fast so the mess seargant is giving us an hour off. It is now four o'clock and we have to be back for five. We will finish up to-night at 8.30 P.M. K.P. is not a punishment everyone has to do it, from privates to seargant. it's a tough grind, but there's no sense in complaining.
I meant to write to Helen to-day, but I can't seem to find her address. Send it to me if you have it, and I will make it my business to write to her.
If you don't hear from me you may continue to put this address on your letters and they will; forward them to me at Columbus, incidentally we expect to be put on the alert any day now, by that we mean be prepared.
How is Charlie making out in the draft, it seems to me he is about due to be called. Has anyone I know been drafted.
This fellow from my place who is here with me received a beautiful package from the company, and they wrote him asking for my address, as they would like to send me a package, they claim that they had my wrong address. They send a package every month.
To-morrow we go out on the rifle range to shoot carbines, these are automatic rifles the type that you see cow-boys on the screen using, they are nifty rifles. Will let you know more about them in my next letter.
Well Jean there isn't much more to say except to remember me to everyone you know who I mean by everyone.
Take care of Lucille and yourself, and I hope I'll be seeing you soon
Your husband
Sal



(Two Thomas Jefferson 3 cents stamps)
Air mail September 16
Thursday
Dear Jean,
I received your letter as a matter of fact I have been receiving one a day, and it feels good to hear from you. I also received one from Pete and Ade.
You misunderstand me on the watch, I wanted a dollar watch not a good one. I'll try to take good care if it.
Well these last two days have been the most interesting of the lot. Yesterday we crawled under machine gun fire, we had to crawl one hundred yards. There was mud dirt and water, I had just gotten over a bridge, and they blew the dam thing up. Some of the fellows got full of water, then we got into a trench and we went over the top. We had to capture the machine gun. We crawled on our stomachs, then we had to go under barbed wire. We could see the bullets flying over our head. They were real ones too. P.S. No one got hurt.
To-day we were out digging fox-holes. I made sure I dug it deep enough, then the tanks came charging over us, but darn it he didn't come over my fox-hole, so I got up and yelled that he missed me, he obliged my coming back, and going right over it. He didn't do a bit of damage to it.
On both of these occasions their was a slight fear, until we really got started, then fear left us, and we were concentrating on our objective.
That's why I say I can take anything they dish out.
Concerning those twins, they are not twins, It is one fellow his name is Tony Scandaliato, he posed on one side then ran to the other side before the camera finished rolling.
There is a fellow here who claims to be Louis Saetta's distant cousin, his name is Saitta, he says his family changed the e- to -i- I never questioned him any further.
You also say in your letter that you - are ashamed to walk on the street because I volunteered. You should be proud of the fact that we are willing to undergo certain hardships so as to make this a safe place for the people whom we love. You know damn well you and Lucille are the only one who mean anything to me. I am trying to do my share, and so is Frank and Larry and the other eight million who are with us. All of us without exception wish we were home, where everything is nice and clean, and to be near our loved ones.
But this is war, and the harder fight we fight, the sooner it will end. Not only the soldiers must fight, but also the people at home.
I just ran out for mail call, and I received one from Larry, all he can say is that he is in the best of health, and that he hears from you quite often. He is wondering if every one back home is all-right.
Drop him a line and let him know. I will write to him to-night.
Best wishes to all
Your husband
Sal.


(two Thomas Jefferson 3cents stamps air mail)
Saturday
Sept 18, 1943
Dear Jean,
This may be my last letter from this camp, as we expect to go on the alert this Monday. We expect to go to Columbus as originally planned.
To-day I received a letter from Danny, and Charlie also, his baby is expected to come home soon. He told me that he expects to be drafted in December.
Last night we went out on a tactical problem. We started out at 8.30P.M. after a hard days work, incidentally it has been raining day and night all week, and its still raining.
Well they marched us out in the pouring rain to the center of a forest, gave us a compass and told us to follow a certain course, and to return in two and a half hours. You can imagine us walking in mud, tall grass, swamps, and rivers, we had to be careful that we didn't step on any snakes. We were in groups of five, which made us feel pretty good. The first course was easy to follow, and we found the marker, we were elated, then we started west, we traveled about an hour, but some-how we couldn't find our second marker, we looked high and low, but to no avail. We had a confad and decided we were lost, which meant that we could not travel by compass anymore. Luckily, we saw a dirt road and followed it, were we surprised to find at the end our headquarters, we were the fourth group to arrive, and the Lieutenant complimented us on our compass reading and speed. We didn't dare tell him we were lost. And had found him accidentally. Others were not so fortunate they were lost for hours.
To-morrow I go on guard duty we are placing a twenty four hour guard around the area no-one is permitted to leave or enter and as I said before no letters will be allowed out, we may receive mail though.
I noticed by the papers that the fifth army is doing very well in Italy, and we hope they continue the good work.
Tell your Mom and Dad not to worry about Frank, as he is well trained, and he is with one of the best outfits in the world. Larry is well able to care for himself, as our marines are the best you can find anywhere, You don't have to worry about me neither.
As I am writing this one of the boys tuned in the radio, and we have the Lucky Strike Hit Parade on, it seems like years ago that we used to sit on the sofa and listen to this same program in the safety and comfort of our own little home. The day isn't very far off when everything will be serene again. We will be able to take that trip to the Canadian Rockies. As we had planned, instead of two, there will be three of us, and the car will be our own, So keep your chin up, the home fires burning and a clean bed for three weary soldiers.
The Hit Parade is now playing the Lady in Red, are you tuned in; remember that song, now it is , in " The blue of the evening." Gosh words fail me now,
Best wishes to all
Your husband
Sal.


(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6cents air mail stamp)
Sunday
September 19, 1943
Dear Jean,
To-day we got the good news, now its definite, we are preparing to leave for Columbus.
All the boys are in high spirits, we have never seen as high a morale as at the present.
I wish to repeat again, that you may not hear from me for awhile. But don't let that stop you from writing as the letters will be forwarded to me.
I haven't received your package as yet, soon as I receive it I will let you know.
To-day is Sunday and I am just lounging around in my old clothes, I can't go anywhere as I have to go no guard duty to night at 6 P.M. It's tedious work, but its got to be done its better than K.P. anyway.
I am spending most of my time writing letters, I want to try to answer as many people as possible before we go on the alert.
Nothing interesting has happened since my last letter, so I will close with the best of luck to all.
Your husband
Sal.
P.S. I received the stamps.
(War department postcard with change of address - Buy war bonds and savings stamps
postmark)
　


COLUMBUS, OHIO
　(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6CENTS AIR MAIL STAMP)
September 26

Dear John,
I received your letter your hunch was right, I received it on the train. We got here last night on a troop train. We got here last night on a troop train, we went two days without shaving or washing as the train had no facilities.
We stopped at Louisville Kentucky, and say the Raleigh cigarette plant also Lucky Strike, our commanding officers gave the townsfolk a show by parading us through the town.
We stopped at a few more places and paraded there also.
The trip was much more pleasant than the one to Louisiana. Its funny though you hear so much in the city about organizations helping us soldiers, matter of fact none have done anything for us, we had ice cream. Cigarettes, candy and gum given to us on the train, but it was brought by us out of our company funds.
We were supposed to arrive here at two in the morning. instead we got here at 6A.M. and we hadn't had any sleep all night, as soon as we arrived here they put us to work cleaning barracks.
We don't mind it so much as long as we are out of Camp Claiborne, that is a hell-hole if there ever was one, nevertheless, I am sort of glad I went through it, it is something one never forgets.
Well at last we are in Columbus, and from all appearances it looks like a nice place. You should receive my mail much sooner now.
I received the watch and writing paper. Thanks but I didn't want such a good watch, we had rough going in Claiborne and a watch like that wouldn't last long, but here its different, we are going to work in warehouses, and they said they would give me a chance at my work, I hope so.
I am sending you a copy of my last will, but don't let it frighten you it is just a matter of form that all we soldiers must fill out. Instead of me keeping it from you I decided to send it on to you.
This is my first day here and I don't know how long it will take for me to get a three day pass, but as soon as I get one I will be home, I'm not entitled to a furlough as yet.
There isn't much more to say and its getting late so I'll close with love and best wishes to all
Your husband
Sal.



(air mail stamp missing)
October 1, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received eight of your letters in one day, including the one addressed here.
To-day I received one from Roy and Mary.
This Columbus is a swell place, the climate is the same a New York, and the attitude of the people is the opposite of Louisiana, Here they can't do enough for us. The work is very interesting, it is in a warehouse where all the different parts are kept, we fill the orders and see that they reach their destination. Our commanding officer said that there will not be any three day passes issued, matter of fact that's the only complaint we have here, that is with passes, we can't even get a week end pass, some of the boys are talking of forming a committee to see the commanding officer, and find out why the restrictions on passes.
I may have some pictures for you in the near future, I tool them to town to have them developed, they were taken in Louisiana.
Well at least I'm not two thousand miles from home, and by hook or by crook I'll becoming home some-day.
I wish that Roy and Mary wouldn't squabble so much, it all seems so foolish in these trying times.
I am glad to hear that Lucille is coming along fine and only hope to God that this damn war ends soon. Have you heard from Frank or Larry? Franks letter should be postmarked Naples, Italy.
When it's postmarked Berlin you will know that the war is at an end, Larrys letter should be postmarked Tokyo, in the very near future, then all our letters will be postmarked New York, N.Y.
There isn't much mire I can say, as I am all through with my basic training, and nothing out of the ordinary has happened as yet.
Give my best wishes to all
Your loving husband
Sal.



Free mail Tuesday
October 5, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received your letters, and glad to hear that everything is coming along fine.
I should not have built up your hopes so much, on my receiving a three day pass. That seems so remote now, that I am beginning to wonder where I ever got the idea. We seem to be having quite a bit of trouble getting g passes here.
There isn't much I can tell you about this place as we have been told to keep our mouths shut, not that its so darn important, but they say its good training. One thing I can say though is that the food is very good, and we get plenty of it.
Well I have finally gotten rid of my heat rash, and chigger bites, they were just a memento from Louisiana.
I am enclosing some pictures which were taken there, they're not very good.
We are not permitted to take pictures here, although I may take some outside of camp.
I received a letter from Jimmy and Charlie, Charlie tells me he is going for induction in December. He has a great surprise in store for him if he gets in this army.
I am really at a loss at what to say, our routine is about the same, rise at 5.45 A.M. in the army we tell time differently, that would read o5.45 hrs, noon is 12.00 midnight is 24.00 oclock.
The nights and morning have been pretty cold, but we don't mind it yet, 130 (degree symbol) heat is still fresh in our minds, give us a little time and we will soon be complaining about the cold.
This friend of mine from New York Butchers is sitting alongside of me writing to his wife also, he came up here with us, though he is in a different company.
We all seem pretty well satisfied with conditions here and hope they remain that way.
Give my best wishes to your mom, dad, Joey, Helen, Connie and especially the Graziani's for permitting me to trouble them with my telephone calls.
Bye bye
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail October 11, 1943
Dear Jean,
I wrote you a letter yesterday, and I hope you received it, to-night it is now 7.00PM, I am fortunate in having some spare time, therefore I am trying to get another letter out to you.
Yesterday I went to Columbus I spent most of my time at the U.S.O., I had a fairly good time playing ping-pong and checkers, and I watched a rehearsal they were having. To-day we worked in the warehouse, filling out orders for parts for tanks, tractors etc, which have been ordered my our boys overseas. We worked until 3.30P.M. then we had to change our clothes, put on our uniform and do a little drilling after that we had retreat, and at 5.15 P.M. we had supper, a little cleaning up, and you know have me writing.
To-morrow we have classes, wherein they teach us the operations of different equipment which are used by the engineers They also want us to get acquainted with the different parts, so we will know what to send when they are ordered. All in all we find it very interesting.
It doesn't seem as if I will be able to get home for quite awhile, they are really clamping down on us, We are all complaining about the pass situation but it doesn't seem to do any good.
Has Toy written yet as to his discharge? He is a very lucky fellow if he get one. Have you heard from Frank or Larry, Frank must be somewhere in Italy. How is your mom and dad, Joey and Lucile?
Give my best to Helen and her entire family also Connie and the rest of my friends.
I'll close now and will write at my first opportunity.
Your loving husband
Sal
　


Four months in the armyFree mail Saturday
October 16, 1943
Dear Jean,
I have been thinking that in seven more days I shall have been in this army four months, here they figure my time as beginning the day of my induction. Its funny what fate does to people.
These are months which shall linger forever in my memory.
You asked about the U.S.O letter head, of course I was at the U.S.O>, they have game rooms, music rooms, and a cafeteria, It seems to me I mentioned it in my last letter, didn't I.
You are right about us being kept very busy, who isn't in this darn army.
About Fanny you can tell her for me that I said she can go to hell.
Yesterday I received a letter from Pete and Ade, also one from Pete and Marion, one from my cousin Jimmy and one from Tony, I haven't been able to answer them as yet.
I wish you wouldn't be expecting me home as that seems quite far fetched now. They don't give out three day passes any more, and its impossible to get home on a weekend pass, they are only given out every other week, ordinarily we should have class A passes, which would permit us to leave every night, as long as we get back for reveille. But that has been done away with, and we just have to obey orders.
Everything is going along pretty good here, and I still can't seem to get interested in this army, its something which I can't explain.
Well its getting close to eleven o'clock and soon we will here the bugler play taps which will be the signal for lights out, and off to bed we go, as usual give my best wishes to everyone.
Your loving husband
Sal
P.S.
I am having trouble writing with this pen it scratches like the dickens.



Free mail
USO stationery Saturday
October 9, 1943
Dear Jean,
I have been receiving your letters every day. It tales exactly one day for your letter to reach me. How long do my letters take.
Well to-day we went on a ten mile hike, and it was a pleasure this time, the weather was perfect, if it had been Louisiana we would have been soaking wet, but as it was we were comfortable all the while, except for tired feet.
I am pleased to hear that Lucille is coming along so well, after all look who is taking care of her.
As I've told you in my other letters there isn't much to tell about this place, to-day we had a new restriction thrust upon us. All camera's must be turned in, which I will have to do to-morrow.
I can tell you though that this is another training period one which we all enjoy as it deals mostly with clerical work.
Have you been receiving your allotment regularly?
Is Joey still getting along well with his job. I'll bet he is, and I am glad that he likes his work.
Sorry I can't say more Jean, but I know you understand.
Keep well_________
Your loving husband
Sal



Free mail Sunday
October 17, 1943
Dear Jean,
Here it is Sunday, and I am sitting on my cot writing you this letter. It is pretty chilly outside but the two stoves we have are doing a good job, they keep the barracks nice and warm. We are still going to school, they are teaching us the elements of good warehousing, they are interesting classes, and while I am learning something new, I can't for the life of me seem to have ambition to progress in them. I can't seem to concentrate on my work, I am not the only one there are many more like me.
I was glad to know that you heard from Frank, he probably is in Italy somewhere, but you needn't worry about him so much, as a rule his outfit should be at the rear of the line of battle, constructing roads, and repairing bridges and airports.
It would be more difficult o hear from Larry as he is in the Pacific Theatre of operations.
We are all hoping that this war ends this coming summer as every one is predicting, according to all indications it may be true.
As I said in my previous letters and I'll say it again, Don't be expecting me to get home on a three day pass/ They have discontinued the practice. We aren't even sure of getting furloughs just yet. This army makes a rule one day and breaks it the next.
How is your Mom & Dad; Joey and Lucille? I trust they are in the best of health. How about yourself, are you feeling allright.
I will close now Jean and give my best wishes to all my friends and yours
Your loving husband
Sal.


(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6cents air mail stamp)
Wednesday
October 19, 1943
Dear Jean,
First of all I would like to have you know that I would not advise your coming here, I don't believe you should leave home.
We had a little trouble here yesterday, the company officer cut the passes down one hour, and the boys refused to accept them. I looked pretty bad for awhile, then they clamped a quarantine on us no one was permitted to enter or leave the area, but that restriction has been lifted now.
I guess we did expect too much from this place, and we are all disappointed.
It is a little chilly here but we don't mind it half so bad as we did the heat. How is the weather in New York, are they wearing overcoats yet.
This Saturday the whole company may go to se the Ohio State versus Northwestern football game. I'm not interested in the game but I may go anyway. That is if I don't catch K.P. I should be getting it soon, they go alphabetically and they are now up to the S's, soon they will be up to my name. It's something which we all have to do.
Before I forget, don't send my pen, leave it home. I'll get along with this one for awhile.
I still have the camera and one roll of film. I may take some more pictures outside of camp. Its going to be very hard but I'll try.
Well things are going pretty good here outside of the pass situation, the food is still excellent, we just wallow in butter and meat, and we get coffee three times a day.
I have a friend who is a cook, and if I need anything extra I can always get it from him, not only that we have a coffee shop here where we can go and have coffee and cake or any thing else we want. Its not free though we have to pay.
I have told you about all there is to say about this place.
Give my best wishes to your mom and dad, Joey, Helen Connie and every one else, take good care of Lucille and yourself, and lets hope this darn war ends soon.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S.I am enclosing some papers, hold on to them.
(no papers were in the envelope)


Free mail Sunday
October, 24, 1943
Dear Jean,
Here it is Sunday, and I am on K.P. it is now 3.35 P.M. they have given us an hour off, as there are very few soldiers in camp to feed, most of them being out on pass.
Yesterday we went to see Ohio State play Northwestern, it was quite a football game. We soldiers were let in free, tickets ordinarly range from six dollars to one dollar ten. Ohio lost 13 to 0.
There seems to be a big shortage of help up here, all you can see are help wanted signs all over town. Women are driving cabs and trucks, you can see most of the women going to work wearing overalls, they are doing a grand job out here.
I received a letter from Danny a few days ago but he didn't mention anything to me, he did say that he expects to leave shortly. He certainly has dangerous work.
Well we had our examination Friday, and I don't believe I made out so well, there seemed to be al lack of interest on my part.
One of the questions was - Who would you see for a three day pass if your grandmother was sick? My answer was That's what I would like to know. Others answered that there was no such thing in our company. Wait until the Lieutenants check our papers. Of course the answer was Headquarters platoon.
I am sorry I couldn't write this in ink as I had trouble with the pen, If I get a chance I will fix it tomorrow
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail Wednesday
October 27, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received your letter of the twenty fifth to0day, I have been receiving your mail everyday and it makes me feel good to receive them, I think though that it would be a good idea if you use regular stamps instead of air mail, as I am not so distant now, however that is up to you.
I sent your mother a birthday card I hope she liked it, did she receive it in time. I didn't receive your mother's package as yet, but I guess I will get it to-morrow, tell your mother I said Thanks.
Another thing don't send me any stamps as I have a few left, I am saving them in case I need them.
As far as the baby carriage is concerned, I leave that all up to you.
Last week when we went on a hike we stopped to rest at the Shrine of St. Theresa, while there the Mother Superior gave us a medal, which I am sending on to you, I hope you like it.
One of the boys here an Italian from Brooklyn is a boxer and I am taking boxing lessons from him, He is now urging me to end this letter so we can do a little boxing.
The past few days they have had me on a carpenter detail making some file cabinets, they have a wonderful work shop. But I still don't like it , if I was on the outside,, I would enjoy it, but here it holds no interest for me.
Well Jean give my best wishes to everyone, this fellow is still bothering me to box so I will close with lover to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.
(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6 cents air mail)


October 30, 1943
Saturday
Dear Jean,
I received your mother's package in good order. It didn't last long though, as soon as I opened it the fellows mobbed me, in about five minutes everything was cleaned up. We have about thirty-five soldiers in this barrack. Everyone praised the cookies, they tasted real good.
I received a letter from Mary Acito and Charlie, soon as I get a chance I will answer them.
The last two nights I have been working in the warehouse we work one week nights and one week days. Its not bad but the only bad feature is that it upsets our routine.
it's a shame the way the civilians work in the warehouse, they do more loafing than actual work. It is especially disgraceful when you realize how important their work is. They are supplying tanks trucks and tractors with spare parts. Which may have been damaged in actual combat. Those fellows across really need those parts.
One of the officials explained that you can't say anything to the civilian he[, as they will up and quit. Labor is so scarce that the government must tolerate them. It seems like a hell of an explanation to us soldier.
So you have the carriage, how is it, does it look good.
I am sorry to hear that Tony isn't going to get a discharge, he must feel pretty bad about it.
The weather has been warm lately with occasional rain. We don't mind the rain as we don't have to drill in it. We spend most of our time indoors.
Everything seems to be about the same here. We haven't heard the final results of the exam yet, not that I expect a good mark.
Give my regards to your Mom and Dad and Joey, also give them my thanks for the package which they sent me.
Remember me to every one else Pete, Marion, Helen, Connie Saettas, etc.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail
(USO postcard) postmarked Nov 16 10pm
Keep Smiling
Dear Jean,
We have an hour to wait before getting the train to Ohio. I am at the U.S.O. and just had some free sandwiches, coffee and do-nuts.
This is a swell place.
Give my best wishes to your Mom, Dad Joey and Lucille.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Its been raining all the way up here.


(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA air mail 6 cents)
Wednesday
Nov, 17, 1943
Dear jean,
I arrived here safe and sound, the trip was tiresome, until we came to the Alleghany mountains, there we ran into a snow storm, the hills and valleys were blanketed with a coat of white, it looked beautiful and then again it seemed to lose its beauty, some how my thoughts were on my wife and baby. Everything is going to be all-right so don't you worry.
When I got here there was five letters waiting for me, three of yours, one from Tony and one from the fellows where I worked, there was also a package from my company, it was filled with candy, nuts and a large fruit cake.
I haven't been put on K.P. yet but I expect it any day. Most of the fellows in my barrack are on furlough, but they are expected back soon.
The weather has been cold all day, fortunately we are working inside.
I wish to thank you, your parents and Joey, for making my furlough an enjoyable one, Lucille contributed her share also.
Will write again soon.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail Friday
Nov. 19, 1943
Dear Jean,
Well here it is Friday, and to-night we have to scrub the barracks. Instead of getting K.P. they put me on Latrine duty, it isn't as bad as K.P.
To-morrow we are slated to go on a short hike, next week we are going on a twenty-five mile hike which will take us eight hours to complete.
They are getting very strict with us, it seems as if they are trying to get us back into Camp Claiborne discipline.
Rumors are still flying around about us being transferred, still nothing definite.
Have you heard from Frank or Larry yet?
How is everything home; Lucille all-right, and everyone's feeling fine I hope.
I am glad I brought this pen with me, as it writes perfectly. Don't have to worry about it scratching or fuming dry.
I wish you would try to get that picture for my wallet as soon as possible, don't send me any large pictures as I haven't any place to keep it also before you send one to Frank & Larry I would suggest that you as them if they have a place to keep it.
If you see Pete and Marion tell them I will drop them a line at the first opportunity.
Also explain to Louis & Millie that I went to visit them but found no one at home.
Give my best wishes to Helen and her family, your mothers Landlord and lady, and her daughters.
Well good-bye for mow and give my best to your Mon and dad and Joey, and I hope your dad will be feeling better soon.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Thank youFree mail Nov, 18, 1943
Thursday
Dear Jean,
I received your letter to-day and was pleased to hear from you.
No I wasn't late, had figured the time out correctly. When I got her I found a few changes. Capt. Reiger is not with us, instead we have a Capt. Allen, for better or worse, who knows, it seems as if they are holding up on the ratings. We don't know why.
I really had an enjoyable time when I was home. And I want everyone to know that I appreciate it.
It was as difficult for me to leave as it was for you to see me go, but after all this is war, It won't be long though this will seem like an ugly nightmare.
There are rumors here that we may be transferred to another camp, of course its only a rumor.
I haven't got much time as they nights are going out in ten minutes so I will say so-long, and my best wishes to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail (USO stationery) Nov 22, 1943
Dear Jean,
I have been receiving your letters quite regular. Glad to know that Frank is safe and well. I wouldn't worry about him if I were you, he can take care of himself and so can Larry and myself.
Glad to receive the pictures of the baby they were cute. I am very anxious though to get that group picture for my wallet.
Well it seems as if these rumors have some foundation to them. Only now they say that we may be shipped overseas. We expect to go on the alert some-day this week, which means that we will not be permitted to communicate with any one, we will be allowed to receive letters. We haven't any idea where ewe are going to be sent.
I feel much better going. Knowing that Lucille is in good hands, I know that your mother, dad and Joey and yourself will see to it that she will be well taken care of.
Someday in the near future we will al be home again, of that I am quite sure, meanwhile keep writing to me even if I don't answer, well you understand, you may expect the same conditions with me as with your brothers. But please don't worry, because I am coming back just for you and Lucille.
I realize that I never told you how I really felt about you, and I feel terrible about it now; I may as well let you know, that I love you dearly and I always will. No one can ever take your place in my affections.
We may have had some misunderstandings in the past. I was mostly to blame, and I want to say here and now that I am sorry.
I have caused your mother and dad some grief too, will you please tell them for me that I am sorry.
After this was I will make it up to all of you somehow.
My aunt and uncle have treated me swell, so have my brother Dan, Roy and his wife and your brothers Frank, Larry and Joey. Tell them all for me that I wish to say Thanks.
All of these people helped me and they never asked anything in return.
I realze it is kinf of late to voice my appreciation, but it ahs been on my mind a long time and I finf it much easier to say it on paper
Give my love to everyone
Your loving husband
Sal.



May be shipped out
(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6cents air mail) Tuesday
November 23, 1943
Dear Jean,
I am trying to write as often as possible as I don't know when they are going to prohibit us from doing so.
I received the photos of the baby and think they are cute, as I told you in my other letters Iwould like to receive the group photo as soon as possible just in case they ship us without warning. Before I go any further, Iwould like to ask you for Larrys adress as I misplaced it, I have a letter written out for him.
I really don't know what to say at a crucial time like this, I feel as if I have so much to say and yet I can't say it. I don't want you to feel bad about it niether , as you and youor family have enough worries now.
According to what Frank told you, and the newspapers, it seems as if it may end soon.
We here are all sick and disgusted of this darn war, it doesn't make sense to any of us. But of course we are I nthe army, and we carry out orders without questioning them.
We had a company dance here in town and I wish you ahd been here. I would still ask you to come but I am afraid that if you do we may be on the alert, and you know what that means. They put guards all over the area and permit ni one to enter or leave. We are afraid that it may happen this week-end?
We are packing all our stuff in crates for overseas shipment our clothes have been exchanged and stenciled with our numbers on them.
We may be sent to a place where ther isn't much fighting going on. Whichever way I go, the Pacific or the Atlantic I will try to make contact with one of your brothers.
Has my aunt or uncle been down to see you? They haven't much time to go visiting/
Frank certainly must have written and interesting letter, I'll bet he was surprised to receive so many letters at one time. It seems to me that they should be gining him a furlough soon. So he may come home. But in this army you never know their word and promise doesn't mean a thing. They say one thing and change it the next minute. That seems to be their perogative.
Well to-day they put me in the headquarters barracks. It may mean that they are going to give me a tryout as transportation clerk. And then again it may not mean anything. I wouldn't mind being assigned to headquarters.
It is now ten oclock, that would be eleven oclock New York time, which mean I haven't much time left as I have to shave, shower and get ready for bed before taps. Before we know it. It will be time to rise and shine. Then we will go and work in the warehouse. We had a feeling that this place was too perfect for an army camp. We were suspicious of this place from the start. Some of the fellows away back suggested that we were being prepared for overseas duty but no one seemed to believe them. Not that it would have done us any good anyway. Maybe its best that we were taken by surprise this way. Some of the boys had their cars here at camp they were given enough gas stamps tp frive their cars home. Everyone on furlouigh must report bacl to camp to-morroe the twenty fouth.
This evidence makes it quite definite that we are going overseas.
It wont be for long Honey so keep your chin up and before you know it, it will be nothing but another experience. Give my best to everyone, and don't foret I will always love you, and I regret that I never showed you my true affections when I should have done so. So if you will accept my humble felicitations now I will feel a lot better. I am sorry that I had to wait for an occasion like this to express myself. But I believe you understand me better than I understand myself.
Bye bye for now
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. It is now 10.45 and no shave or shower, will have to do it during lunch to-morrow.


(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6 cents air mail stamp)
Thursday
November 25. 1943
Dearest Jean,
Here it is Thanksbiving ans we are all so far from home. But don't you fret, this war will soon end, then we'll have a real Thanksgiving.
We worked this morning, but will have the rest of the afternoon off. We are now cleaning yo and preparing for our turkey dinner. Will let you know what we had in my mext letter.
Tuesday we went into a gas chaamber filled with tear gas, we were then told to remove our masks, well our eyes started to tear and we couldn't see a thing for five minutes, it wasn't bad though.
This Sunday we are going to be given a taste of chlorine gas one of the most deadliest fases man ever devised. We were waened not to enter the chamber if we have the least doubts of the condition of our masks. Mine is all-right.
Did you say Larry was made a Seargent! Well that's great there's no telling how far he'll go now. I wish him all the luck in the world.
Well time is drawing closer, but we still don't know when, when you don't receive any mail from me you will know that we are on the alert.
Some say we are going to Pearl Harbor, others Alaska, then the Aleutians, some even say Sicily while others England. They are all a bunch of rumors, in which we can place no stock. If we did know er wouldn't dare tell for fear of our ship being torpedoed.
All transports are reaching their destinations safe and sound so there isn't much fear on that score.
We will all be back safe and sound, and very shortly too. There isn't much more to say except to give my best wishes to all at home and tale care of yourself and the baby.
Your loving husband,
Sal.
P.S. I received the marriage certificate.
Rifle poses

Free mail
(enclosure: 8 negatives Sal posing with his rifle) Monday
Nov 29, 1943
Dear Jean,
I just got through with K.P., it wasn't such a bad day, although the hours were pretty long, 14 hours to be exact.
I am trying to write to you as often as possible, ( even tho it means neglecting others) so you may know when I am on the alert.
I will try to do as you say by numbering the letters I send you, however it may not be practical.
One if the boys just tuned un the Radio on the Lux theratre of the air. I'll bet you are listening to it now, remember when we used to listen to it to-gether.
I'd better stop it before I get homesick.
I am enclosing some negatives which I forgot to take home with me.
Gee honey I don't know what to say, this radio program brings back memories. I think it best if I close, guve my love to all ,especially Lucille and yourself.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. I received a letter fron Frand he says everything is going fine, I will answer him to-morrow.


Free mail
(UNITED STATES ARMY STATIONERY)
Tuesday
Nov 30, 1943
Dear Jean,
I received the photo, it looks very well indeed.
Sorry to hear that the uncle passed away, what from anyway.
Sorry to hear about Mary, it seems as if everything is happening while I am in the army. By the way to-day I received a package from Roy and Mary, it was loaded with candy and cookies. I sure appreciate it ,I also appreciate you asking me if I need anything, but right now I don't a thing. If I ever need anything you shall be the first one I shall come to.
To be frank Jean, I did know that I was going overseas, I meant to tell you, but I didn't have the nerve, I hope you understand.
If you have trouble with your throat, by all means have it taken care of.
I don't believe you will be able to withdraw any money from the bank unless you send me the book and have me sign it, or find out what I have to do so you may withdraw when you please. But do it right away.
it's a good idea if you go to sere Mary as she has been very good to me while I have been in the service.
I have sent the letter to Larry and am going to answer Frank's to-morrow. I will also send a letter to Roy and Mary.
Give my best wishes to your Mom and Dad, Joey, Lucille, and everyone else, not forgetting of course Pete and Marion, My love to you.
Your loving husband
Sal.



(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6 cents air mail stamp)
(postmarked Dec3, 1943 12.30pm)
Thursday
Dear Jean,
I am still in town, much to our surprise and pleasure, we haven't much time left tho, as we have been issued our overseas equipment. We all hate the idea of leaving the States, but if our going is to help end this war then we are anxious to get there and get it over with.
To-day I received a package a Christmas gift from Armour Chicago, a swell package too. It included three packs cigarettes, 6 packs gum, tooth brush, shaving cream, tooth paste, blades, I cakes of soap, candy, peanuts etc.
It made me feel great to think they had remembered me.
I may send you my watch and garrison belt, as we are not permitted to take them with us.
We have been receiving daily lectures on our future conduct overseas, still no hint as to our future whereabouts.
The weather here has been warm to-day it was so warm that we wearing out shirts only. We haven't had any rain for weeks. And hope we don't get any.
I sent the letters to Frank and Larry and will try to contact one or the other.
There is an Italian woman working up here at the depot, who has a son overseas she ahs been kind enough to invite four of us Italians up to her home for Sunday dinner, if I can possibly make it. I'll be there. Will let you know about it Monday.
I haven't heard from my brother Dan, but then I realize he can't write. I did hear from some of the boys working at the plant. I have so many letters to write and so little time, that I am just hoping people will realize it, and not expect me to answer their mail right away.
Whatever you do, don't send me any packages here unless I request it, as I have to get rid of a lot of stuff as it is. We just found out that we can take cameras with us, but its too late now as they have to be packed in waterproof boxes. I will try to get a camera overseas, and will let you know if I need any film.
I miss all of you, your Mom, dad, Joey, especially you and Lucille. It seems like ages since I was home.
It won't be very long and we'll all be to-gether again.
Give my best wishes to all
Your loving husband
Sal.


(UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6 cents air mail stamp)
Thursday
Dec 9, 1943
Dearest Jean,
I am receiving your letters regularly as usual, and I am very pleased to hear from you. I am glad you liked the gift. I regret I couldn't do better.
I can't imagine what the writing on that clipping meant I'm sure I didn't put it there.
This morning we drove 45 miles to the rifle range to test our new carbines (they fire sixteen shots and are semi-automatic) I was slated to ride in #1, truck as my last name starts with an A, somehow I missed it and rode in #4 truck. Well #1 truck hit a telephone pole cutting it in two, and overturning with a load of soldiers in it. They had gotten us up at three thirty in the morning, and it seem as if the driver hadn't had enough sleep, as they say he fell asleep at the wheel. Incidentally quite a few soldiers were hurt, the truck was a mess.
I was my good fortune that I missed that truck.
I received a letter from Mary to-day, and if you see her tell her I will answer as soon as possible.
As I told you before we are all set to go, and are awaiting shipping orders. Any day now it may happen.
We are anxious to get there and finish this dirty piece of business.
I will write to Dan and Larry and exchange addresses with them.
Give my best wishes to your family and all our friends.
Also thank Roy and Mary for me in reference to the hi-chair.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. One of the boys from my place sent me a carton of cigarettes and a beautiful package of cookies, candy and gum. I still have plenty of it left.
(postcard
WAR DEPARTMENT notice of change of address c/o postmaster NY,NY)
　
　
The following letter is out of order　
　
(2 win the war 3 cents stamps air mail)
(USO stationery) Dec 4, 1943
Dear Jean,
I am enclosing the form you sent me. If you care to you can send me the book and I will sign it so you can withdraw any time you need it. You may need it while I am overseas. We can always start all over again when I return. You may cash the bonds also if you see fit. There is some money in my company credit union which you can use if need be.
The company that my friend belonged to is set to go and we will be next. I am going to try call you to-morrow which is Sunday the fifth. By the time you receive this letter I will have spoken to you by phone.
I will continue writing to you as long as I can.
By the way I sent you a small Christmas gift. Its not much, but I wish you like it.
I am sorry I can't send one to each member of the family.
Give my best wishes to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.





SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSOMETIME AFTER Dec 9, 1943
No postmark
Censored mail passed by US army examiner 29195(1) "Somewhere East"
Dec.----1943
Dearest Jean,
I am very sorry to have to disappoint you and your family. I am afraid my friend and I will not be able to keep that dinner engagement.
The night I came home I had so much to say, but I put it off as I thought I was going to able to come home the following day.
It was nice to see everyone, I also noticed a little change on the baby, she seems to have put on some weight.
It was great to see my cousin Jimmy and my Aunt, there were a few more people I would have liked to have seen.
I arrived in camp on time, and tell the Landlord I said Thanks again.
There isn't much I can tell you as my letters are now being censored. There isn't much I could tell you if they weren't censored.
Beginning with this letter I will commence numbering them in the top left hand corner, so you can tell if you receive all of them.That's all for now Jean and give my best wishes to every one.
Merry Christmas
Happy New Year Your loving husband
Sal.



Free mail
Censored
II Somewhere East
Dec 1943
Dear Jean,
I'm afraid I shall not be able to come home for quite awhile. I trust it shall not be so long.
It was great to get home for the holidays, and I enjoyed it immensely.
I arrived in camp on time the morning I left, and I was all set to come home the following night, when we were compelled to change our plans.
There was such a change in Lucille all for the better too, and down deep it hurts to have leave her, also you and your family.
Of course I knew it couldn't last, but yet I didn't expect it to come so sudden. I'm sorry I didn't kiss the baby and say good-bye to your folks. Say good-bye to them for me won't you.
I hope the next time we meet that Frank and Larry will be home. If only this darn war would end.
We are not alone, there are millions like us all over the world.
Jean, if you need any of the money we have, go right ahead and use it, every penny of it if need be.
We can start all over again only the next time it won't be so difficult.
Roy has asked me to remember him to you and the folks. Remember me to them also, and I hope you mother is feeling better. I tried so hared to get a gift for her, but there was nothing, not even a bracelet like I gave you.
When I get overseas I will see if I can send her a little gift.
Bye-bye for awhile, a very short while I hope.
Your loving husband
Sal.



Free mail
Vmail
(2) no dates
Dear Jean,
Everything going along fine. Sorry I couldn't get home to see you. I received one of your letters. I am sending you this letter hoping that you will receive it soon, after this one you may not hear from me for quite awhile. Don't worry everything will be allright. Tale good care of Baby Lucille. Give my best wishes to all your family, I hope the next Christmas will find all of us home. Here's hoping every one a Christmas devoid of unhappiness.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail
No dates
SO WE'LL MEET AGAIN!
BUY MORE WAR BONDS
(POSTCARD)
Dear Jean,
This card will explain better than I could ever do.
Your loving husband
Sal



Free mail
No date
SO WE'LL MEET AGAIN
BUY MORE WAR BONDS
(SENT TO IN-LAWS)
Hello,
I am much closer to Frank now. If I can't see him: I will be able to write to him, which I will do as often as possible. Bye-bye
Sal.
　
　
　
444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444
1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944 1944


Free mail
OPENED BY PASSED BY SASE 0672 US ARMY EXAMINER
(3) Somewhere
January 3, 1943(1944)
Dear Jean,
There isn't much I can say except that I am thousands of miles from home. I expect to be closer to Frank, how close I can't say if I get the chance I will try to contact him immediately.
I need those addresses put of my book, don't send me the book, just right them all on paper and send them to me. Include Frank Tasso's address.
I will write to you as often as possible, but if you don't hear from me don't worry, as I may not have time to write.
I really don't know if I will need anything or not, if I do I will write and let you know.
Give my best wishes to your folks, and take care of baby Lucille till I get home.
Your loving husband
Sal.



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6cents air mail stamp
Passed US Army examiner Lt. Charles J. St. Pierre C.E.
4 Somewhere in England
January 10, 1943(1944)
Dear Jean,
I arrived safe and sound, hope you have received my telegram to that effect.
My first impression was not a good one, it seemed very eerie, I haven't seen much of it, therefore I am not able to pass judgement. For one thing I never tasted anything so terrible as the coffee brewed by the English, the food is passable, so far we have been able to get as mush as we are able to eat.
The American Red Cross has been very good to us, they have continually supplied us with coffee, do-nuts, candy cigarettes and gum, they are really doing a grand job, I deeply regret that I didn't contribute more freely to that organization when I was in a position to do so.
There isn't anything I really need right now. Almost everything imaginable is rationed, the people don't look any the worse for it , matter of fact they are quite jolly, and expect a quick end to this war.
One of the natives advised me that when saying good-bye to forget the phrase so-long and use cheerio instead, I tried it once and instead of hearing cheerio for a response O got a hearty so-long! The correct one of course is cheerio.
My A.P.O has been changed it is now #518, c/o Postmaster New York, N.Y.
I believe Sam Giordano left the same time I did, but he definitely is no where near me, of that I am sure, I doubt very much if I will be able see Frank Tasso.
Give my best wishes to your folks and don't forget to send me those addresses, cheerio
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail Photostat
Censors mail passed by US Army examiner 29195
January 11, 1944
5 Somewhere in England
Dear Jean,
Feeling fine, hope to hear the same from you, your folks, Joey and the baby. I will try to write to you as often as I can as I know how your folks feel when they don't receive any mail from Larry and Frank, incidentally I can't write to either of them till I hear from you. The weather so far has been depressing hope it changes.
Let me know if you have been receiving my mail., also if any of it has been censored.
I hope we can end this mess soon so that we can all be home.
Your loving husband
Sal.


6cents air mail
(Lt chs st pierre etc) Somewhere in England
6 January 12, 1944
My dear Jean,
I received your letter dated Dec.28, and was very happy to hear from you, it has been the only letter I have received in over two weeks.
I wish you would send me the rest of those barber tools that you spoke of .So far I have earned almost double what they cost . Thanks to you,
I told (Ray) Gene as you call him what you had to say and he was pleased to think that you and your folks still think of him. We know him as Ray which is his surname.
About this place I will let you know as much as I can safely tell you. The weather is terrible its been raining since the day we arrived.
Our trip was pleasant and uneventful, I was seasick for five minutes only, others were not so fortunate. It was a grand feeling to sight land even though it wasn't scenic, some of the fellows thought differently, but after all they have never been to the Adirondacks. One thing I noticed while on the train was that there seemed to be a scarcity of trees, and odd sight for one who comes from the States.
Before I forget could your mother put some of those cookies which she bakes into the same package with the barber tools, they taste swell. And besides some of the boys requested that I ask for some. They are a luxury item here, Matter of fact everything is rationed to us soldiers including cigarettes, candy, gum, cookies, etcetera, When I say everything I mean exactly that.
I don't need any cigarettes or gum just yet as I am amply supplied. I also have enough money to carry me through till payday.
We get a twenty percent increase in pay for overseas duty, but they try to take back forty percent by imposing fines ranging from five dollars and up, for the slightest infractions of rules, such as not wearing proper hat, keeping your hands in your pockets, and numerous other infractions. We didn't believe our ears when we heard it but they meant every word they said.
I am terribly sorry I wasn't able to get home, believe me I wanted to see you and the baby once more before I left. Don't worry Jean, its only a matter of time and I will be home again, so will your two brothers.
To the people whom you mentioned in your letters, tell them I send my wishes, sorry I couldn't make it.
It is now 8.30 P.M, which means its 3.30 P.M. New York time we are five hours ahead.
I have been able to write you every night so far but don't feel bad if you don't hear from me very often, I have explained why in several of my former letters.
Bye-bye Jean, or cheerio as they say here till my next letter. Regards to all
Your loving husband
Sal.
% Postmaster
Please permit this person to send parcel to soldier.
Lt. Charles J. St. Pierre C.E.
Ok to send parcel
Western Union Telegram

Postmarked Jan 22, 1944 1AM 2cents stamp
ALL WELL AND SAFE. PLEASE .DON'T WORRY. BEST WISHES AND GOOD HEALTH.
SALVATORE ACITO
　
VMAIL
CENSORED January 17, 1944
8
My dear Wife,
To-day I received letters #16 & 17. I realize you don't care to receive these type of letters as I can not say much. I will write you a long letter at the next opportunity.A few days ago we were issued European campaign ribbons which we wear on our chest. I doubt if I shall ever have, as many ad your brothers Frank and Larry possess. By the way I wrote Frank a letter I hope he gets it.
I exchanged my money for the pounds, shillings etc It was quite complicated for awhile, I think now I can handle it pretty well now. Haven't been to town as yet. Will let you know about it when I do. Love to the folks.
Lovingly yours
Sal.
　
　
　
(out of order))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
Vmail Photostat
Censors mail passed by US Army examiner 29195
January 15, 1944
England
Dear Jean,
To-day I received two letters numbered one and fifteen, I don't quite understand what you meant in fifteen, but if there are any questions I will gladly answer them to the best of my ability.
This is the strangest place I have ever seen, it is midwinter, but the grass is very green, some of the trees are green also. Across the road a farmer had fifteen healthy looking cows which he has on pasture all day.
We haven't seen the sun as yet all we see is mud mud and more If it isn't raining its raining. What a place.mud.
I sure can sympathize with Frank.
I will write to him to-night.
Best wishes to Mon, Pop, Joey Lucille and last but not least my wife.
Your loving husband
Sal.


UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6 cents air mail stamp
Censored mail Somewhere in England
8 January 23, 1944
Dear Jean,
I have been receiving mail dated Dec 12 also some Jan 4.
You don't mention whether or not you have received any mail from me. I also sent you a cablegram.
We are being kept very busy, as who isn't these times. To-day we visited a quaint old English town. It was interesting to see the invaluable antiques, we also visited a church, which is over five hundred years old. The town was very neat and clean the people were very cordial.
Last night in camp I met Louey's brother-in-law, his name is Nick, Louey you remember is Connies brother-in-law. If you see Connie tell her about it.
As I told you in my previous letter I wrote to Frank and am now waiting his reply. I didn't write to Larry as I haven't his address with me.
Its too bad about Charlie does he expect to be an exception, most of the men in my outfit are married, some have three and four children.
Well we haven't seen much of the sun as yet, and its still muddy as ever. I can't for the life of me understand how people can endure this weather.
I wish we had gone where Frank is at, the sun shines there occasionally. I met some of Comare Massini's friends. I will tell you more if you ask me some questions. I also met some of my uncle's friends.
I haven't received any mail from anyone else, although I have written to quite a few. The mail service is terrible here anyway.
There isn't much I can tell you about this place due to army restrictions. All I can say is that they can keep this whole island for themselves and just send me back to Brooklyn, U.S.A.
Give my best wishes to your folks, take good care of baby Lucille and yourself.
Your loving husband
Sal.


6cents air mail
Censored
England
January,25, 1944
11
Dear Jean,
So far everything is going along as good as can be expected under the circumstances We haven't been molested by the Jerries, as Frank calls them, not yet anyway.
I have been receiving your letters although they come all jumbled up. That is one reason why it is so difficult for me to answer your questions.
I am sorry to hear your were sick. Glad you are over it.
I wonder how Charlie is getting along in the army?
By the way how is Larry? I can't write to him till I get the addresses from you which I requested. I am not blaming you, you probably sent them, they must be held up in the p.o.
We are all working hard trying to make this place livable. Its quite a job, but we are progressing slowly. All we have to work with are old crates, matter of fact that's what are barracks and beds are made out of. Conditions are awfully depressing, the weather doesn't help matters neither. What I wouldn't give to se the sun, especially the one that shines in Brooklyn.
The United States is really Gods country, you don't realize it till you hit foreign soil.
We don't get any daylight till eight in the morning, and then its misty and foggy.
After this war, we are going to buy a little farm about thirty miles from the city, and see if we can't forget this nightmare .
I 'm not going to give up my job with Armour and Company as I liked my job, I hope they keep their promise, not like the army, promise you the world and give you nothing. I'm sorry I can't elaborate on my last statement at the present, I have one hope left if I don't succeed I will explain myself.
I am trying hard to get a souvenir for you and your mother, no success yet, as I need coupons for almost anything I want to buy. Give my best to your folks Joey and Lucille,
Your loving
Sal.
Vmail


January 27, 1944
Dear Jean,
I have tried to notify you as soon as possible of my safe arrival, I even sent you a wire, but according to your latest letter dated the fifteenth you haven't heard from me yet period. The wire was held a week before it was sent, we found that out later.
I am pleased to hear such fine reports of baby Lucille, as for the vaccination, I shall leave that to your better judgment.
I haven't received the package from my company as yet, I hope they don't fail me know, as I would make good use of it.
Give my best to all,
Your loving husband
Sal.



Out of order5555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555 Sal.
Air mail 6 cents
Censored England
9 January 25, 1944
Dearest Jean,
For the past week I have been learning to operate a crane, and a tractor, I am supposed to learn to operate all the equipment which is assigned to my platoon.
It is quite a change from clerical work. I work in the open all day, that doesn't mean in the sun neither, there's no such thing in England, instead its rain mud and slop. Its nothing compared to what Frank is going through. By the way I haven't heard from him yet. I did hear from Tony, he says everything is allright. I haven't heard from Danny yet, its possible that we could meet, only if he would send me a wire when he reaches Liverpool.
You asked my opinion in reference to the conclusion of this war.
Well I hate to say this, but you know I have always tried to be truthful, it seems to me that the people in the States are in for a bitter disappointment, From here it seems as if the war will last another two years at least. I hope to God that I am wrong.
So far we haven't had any trouble from the Jerries, I guess we can take care of them if they attempt it.
You may send me a package if you like, cookies etc. I believe I told you that we are allowed one package of gum, two bars of candy and two boxes of cookies per week. Ice cream and soda are unheard of here so is fresh milk and eggs.
I just thought of it, if you have the camera and films will you include them in the package.
I have told you this before, if you need money, cash the bonds or send me a slip so I can sign the bank account over to you. Don't be afraid to use it.
Give my best wishes to your folks, also Joey, Pete, Marion Tasso and the Landlord
Tale care of Lucille and yourself
Your loving husband
Sal.
　


6 cents air mail censored mail
12
England
February 1, 1944
Dear Jean,
To date I don't know whether or not you have received any of my mail, to-day a letter came from you dated January seventh. I imagine you must be having the same trouble hearing from me.
So far I have been operating a crane and a tractor, its interesting work, but I don't care for it . I am still trying to get into my line of work, I was promised it , when I volunteered for the engineers, and I am going to continue to fight for it, if unsuccessful I am considering asking for a transfer out of the engineers completely. I would like to get into the air corps.
Surprise we have had a glimpse of the sun, it wasn't very strong though.
There isn't much going on here that I can tell you about.
Here we get a day off every two weeks. I expect my day off soon.
I sent Frank another letter, still no answer.
How is Larry coming along?
Is Danny back yet?
I'll bet Lucille is growing up, no telling hold old she'll be fore I get back.
I see Gene occasionally, but he's not in my platoon, we are doing different kinds of work.
We don't go out much, I've been to town twice since I have been here, have no desire to go very often. Nothing doing there any way.
Best wishes to all
Your loving husband
Sal.



Vmail
Censored February 1, 1944
ENGLAND
Dear Jean,
Here's another of those de-hydrated news reports. Everything going along fine.
Weather clearing up, days are getting longer, mud is drying up, I've got my finger crossed on that one. Haven't had to wear my galoshes for three days. The last time I said that, I went outside and it was raining.
Have you been receiving my mail, how about the package any sign of it yet, it was registered you know.
I am beginning to understand these English when they speak, their favorite phrase, when you ask information is, 'You cawn't miss it, try and find the place though. Love and cheerio.
Sal.


Free mail
Censored England
February 2, 1944
Dear Jean,
To-day I received your letter of the eighth of January, Gene's letter was enclosed, he was pleased to receive it.
I was walking down the road this morning and saw one of the prettiest birds I have ever seen, about the size of a sparrow colored red on the neck, white and black wings with a gray tail, it also had a beautiful song, it sorta reminded me of Lake Placid. Come to think of it I sent Mr. Ames a letter and may receive an answer shortly. I believe I have written to all whose address I had memorized.
I know it will be about a month before you receive this letter I also know I told you to send me a package.
Well here everything is scarce and we welcome any sort of a package.
Therefore if you care to send me a package you may do so, providing it doesn't put you to a lot of trouble. Almost anything will be appreciated.
I also realize I must request these or they cannot be sent.
Don't neglect Frank or Larry on account of me as they need a package more than I do.
By the way you should be receiving an extra five dollars per month from the Government as I have increased my allotment.
You should also receive a money order for thirty dollars which I sent you. Go out and buy something for yourself and the baby with it.
With the extra five dollars I would suggest you pay the storage on our furniture, as it would make it easier when I return, its only a suggestion, but if you see fit to put it to some other use go ahead. Its allright with me.
I hope the big push that he radios and newspapers are talking about comes off soon, the sooner it happens, the quicker we'll be home. It won't stop till it reaches Berlin.
Well so long for awhile, my regards to the folks, Joey baby Lucille and yourself
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. I still don't know whether you received my cable-gram or my letters. Here's hoping you have. I am also sending this letter regular mail, let me know how the service is.


Vmail censored
England
February 2, 1944
Dearest Jean,
Yesterday I received the cookies which your mother so kindly sent me, I received the cookies in perfect shape, most of the boys receive theirs all crumbled up.
This time I didn't share them with all the boys, instead I divided them amongst five friends, if I had passed them around, there would not have been any left, the boys are just staving for things like that. I didn't forget Gene, he was given some.
Everyone says they tasted swell, and send their Thanks. Tell your mother I said Thanks a million.
Lucille was finally vaccinated. I guess you picked out the proper place.
I also received a letter from Jim, telling me that he is going overseas, if he hits this country I shall look him up.
No I haven't seen Sam yet. I believe I explained myself in my last letter.
No answer from Mr. Ames yet.
Say I told you what to do with the thirty dollars, and I meant it. You can put the extra allotment on the storage if you wish.
You don't have to get me a good camera, almost anything will do, as long as it takes pictures.
Before I go any further, I should mention that I received three of your letters to-day, namely February seventeenth to the nineteenth inclusive. Sure was glad to hear from you.
Lucille is eight month old, how time does travel, I hope she won't be much older before I get a chance to get home.
So your cousin Eddie is coming home, I guess its about time, he should have some pretty good stories to tell, if the army will let him talk.
I am writing this letter in our recreation hall, we have the radio on, Fred Waring is broadcasting, it makes most of us homesick.
It won't last forever this war, it just can't. I believe we are all anxious to get home.
We haven't had any trouble with the Jerries, guess they have their hands full.
It's a tough job writing a letter, knowing that its going to be censored. You get set to write something, then you fear you are breaking censorship rules, so you turn it around a few times, and the result is a letter like mine. I hope you understand what I am trying to say.
Its a tough job walking around in this black-out. I am always tripping or falling over something, either that or bumping into someone. The safest way is to smoke a cigarette or keep whistling.
Thats all for now jean will write again soon, give my love to everyone.
*We are not permitted to send kisses by mail, hope that explains.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. We are not permitted to use exes.


Vmail February 6, 1944
censored England
Dearest Jean,
I received a letter from Tony today. He tells me that Sam's wife received a cable-gram. Well I left before he did. I also sent a wire and numerous letters, can't understand why you haven't heard from me.
Perhaps I should send you Vmail, they seem to travel faster. Tony's letter was dated the twenty fourth of January. Have you taken any pictures of the baby lately? Send me one or two if you have. Would like to note the change in her .
Give my best wishes to Mom, Pop Joey beby Lucille, the Danolfo family and all my friends.
Your loving husband
Sal.



Free mail
Censored
14 England
February 5, 1944
Dear Jean,
Yesterday I received five letters from you, two of them were Valentines. I think they are very lovely. Thanks a million. To-day I also received a letter it was dated the nineteenth of January, I am really surprised that you haven't received any of my correspondence. I did my best to let you know as soon as possible.
Yesterday I visited the city if Birmingham, it's a quaint old city, in some respects it resembles New York. People are hurrying around, running to catch busses and trolleys, their buses are like our Fifth Avenue ones, their trolleys are double deckers.
I saw some of the homes that had been bombed by the Germans, it's a sickening sight, the people tell me that they were even strafed by machine-gun fire.
While in town I bought a couple of gifts for you and Mo, the silver chain with the cross, and the green bracelet is meant for Mom. The necklace and ivory bracelet for you.
Its not much, but I hope you both like them.
By the way I sent them out yesterday by registered mail You will also find a Valentine card, it's the best to be had here.
If you read the papers you probably noticed that London had been bombed again, the English can take it though, it remains to be seen whether the Germans can. I doubt it.
I would discount those rumors you here in the states about an armistice, it seems to me that the Allies are going to knock h--l out of Germany, and force her to surrender unconditionally, thereby eliminating the possibility of another war for our children.
It will take time, don't expect too much, I hope that by Christmas it will be all over.
I also received two letters from my friend Stanley, he's the fellow who worked with me at the plant. He says less than I do in his letters seems as if they have a stricter censorship than we.
I am going to write to him to-night.
Still no answer from Frank, I sent him another letter a few days ago.
Why did Pete and Marion have to report to the local board, not for induction I hope. He can do more good at home.
Have you any idea what branch of service Charlie was mustered into?
I had a talk with my company commander, and told him of the promises which were made when I volunteered for the engineers. He led me to believe that those promises may be fulfilled. Don't put too much stock in it, I don't.
So much for me.
Now about you and the family. Glad to hear that you are feeling better. Too bad you were mistreated by the army emergency relief. They also promise a lot and give nothing. If I were you I would tell them to go to hell, and try to get along as best as you can till I get out of this army.
If you need money ask my brother Roy I am sure he will help you.
Don't worry about me. As I have enough money, also plenty of cigarettes. The only reason I requested those packages was because I knew how badly you and Mom felt when Frank or Larry neglected to do so.
How is Mom, Dad and Joey and Lucille?
You bet that I will treat them as my dad and mom should be treated after this war. You know what I mean. It took a war to wake me up.
I haven't any idea what-so-ever where Sam Giordano is at. I may be able to find him if you send me his A.P.O. number, also Frank Tasso.
Have you seen Roy or Mary as yet? How about my aunt and uncle. What have they to say, you know I wrote to them in Italian, just wondering how many mistakes I made.
You haven't asked me any questions yet. I may be able to answer them.
I wonder why I haven't received a package from my company. Its over a month late now. Hope they haven't discontinued the practice.*
The weather has changed, we had a few flakes of snow yesterday. The md seems to have disappeared.* *(I'm not sure of my spelling anymore. You may find a fey mistakes.) We haven't had any rain for about three days, we have our fingers crossed.
How about my brother Danny, any news yet?
I have found a Masonic temple in town, and am going to try to attend one of their meetings. I'll bet its quite impressive. Will write to my lodge, and tell them about it. I am really sorry that I will not be able to describe it to you.
This country id masonically minded, much more so than the States. I may meet some famous personages at the meeting. I can let you know about that.
Give my best wishes to Helen, Connie, Louis Saetta(send me his address) and family, also my best to the Friscia family, not forgetting Mom, dad, Joey baby Lucille, and last but not least my ever loving wife
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail
Censored February 8, 1944
15 England
Dearest Jean,
Letting you know I am in the best of health and hope to hear he same from you.
The best I can do is to keep writing, hoping you will receive one of my letters, thereby knowing I have arrived safe and sound.
Glad to hear Frank is getting a chance to rest, he certainly has been up on the front a long time. He has earned a rest, so have his whole outfit. I believe they have been instrumental in making General Clarks campaign a success.
Give my best wishes to all, and hope the time is not far off when we shall all be home again. Your loving husband Sal.


Free mail
Censored Somewhere in England
February 11, 1944
Dearest Jean,
To-day I received four of your letters, also one from Mary Acito, I was pleased to receive all five of them.
I would advise against sending then air-mail as it seems to get here to-gether with regular mail. But its entirely up to you, use your own judgment.
One of your letters had the addresses in it , I'll try to write to as many as possible.
Maybe this war won't last as long as I had suggested. Things are getting much brighter now, the Germans are being defeated on all fronts. By the time you receive this letter the Big Push may have been started ,once that starts it will be only a matter of time for the Germans to realize the seriousness of their predicament.
Don't worry about me writing you, because I always will at my first opportunity, sometimes though its hard. We are constantly on the go, because of the importance of our mission, We are trying in our own small way to hasten the Armistice.
The weather here is about the same as you have in the fall. It doesn't get real cold. We haven't had any rain now for a week, hope it keeps up.
I can't seem to get accustomed to these blackouts, I'm always tripping over something or other. I bumped into someone a couple of nights ago, all I heard was the clang of our steel helmets hitting each other. Both of us walked away with out even apologizing.
To-night I walked right smack into a fence, I can't write what I said, guess even the censor would blush.
Its getting close to bed-time any minute mow the bugler should be playing taps, with that all lights go out.
Give all my best to everyone and keep up the goof work with baby Lucille.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Haven't heard from Frank yet, will write to Larry to-morrow.


Vmail
Censored
February 14, 1944
Somewhere in England
Dear Jean,
Glad to hear that Charlie visited my uncle, sorry to hear the other mews about his child. Guess we have a lot to be thankful for, don't you think so.
You were wrong on that date. Will you let you know everything when its all over.
Congratulations to your brother Frank. Haven't heard from him yet, guess they are keeping him very busy.
Have you received the package I sent? Do you and Mom like the gift? I haven't received your package a yet. Thank everyone for me, won't you, and give my best to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail
Censored February 15, 1944
Somewhere in England
Dearest Jean,
I am discontinuing the practice of numbering my letters, as I am quite sure you will not receive them in rotation. I have been receiving yours all jumbled up.
I received three of your letters, one from Danny and one from a friend of mine who works at the plant.
Danny's letter was dated the eight of January. I have answered all the mail via Vmail, as it seems to be the most expeditious.
No your mail is not censored. Why should it be? Haven't heard from Frank yet. I know he is pretty busy now, as they had a piece in the papers about his division. Don't ask me what, as I don't believe it would pass the censor. P.S. Have you received the package? Love Sal
　


Free mail
Censored mail England
February 17, 1944
Dear Jean,
Up to this writing you haven't received many of my letters. I have written to you as often as I could possibly do so. I believe eventually you will receive most of them.
I don't o out of camp very often, at nights I am so tired I just write a few letters and then to bed.
The days are getting longer, they tell me that soon the days will last till twelve midnight. That is it doesn't get dark till then. Guess that means plenty of work for us. We don't mind if it means a hasty and successful completion of this conflagration.
I believe this week we are going to try to form a group of members, and go to town to attend a lodge meeting. Haven't been to one yet. There are about fourteen of them in this company. There are millions of them in England.
No I haven't spoken to the farmer across the road. We haven't time for that. We are slowly but surely making our area a better place to live in. We have erected a recreation hall, - aplace we can go to write letter. We have a radio, writing tables and a few magazines. The walls bear pictures of pin up girls by Varga. I think the pictures was the 1/sgts idea. It helps to liven up the place.
Its Thursday night, one of boys just tuned in to Bing Crosby, He certainly knows hoe to sing .Remember how we used to listen to him. He is singing the Victory Polka. A bit of nostalgia hit me hard. I miss all of you.
I see by the papers where some one predicted the end of the European war by April 15, 1944. I don't see how its possible, but I hope he is right.
I haven't weighed myself but I believe I am putting on weight. I eat almost twice as much as I formerly did. The food isn't bad considering what it may be for the boys in Italy. Most of our food comes from America. Everything is canned except the milk and eggs, they are fried. What we wouldn't give for some fresh milk, eggs and vegetables. Don't misunderstand me, I'm not complaining.
So Jim is in the army, he had better get accustomed to restrictions and confinements, as they have plenty of them. It takes a few months for one to get used to it.
How is Helen and her family getting along Tell them I was asking for them.
What is my aunt and uncle doing? Have they bought a home yet? Have they been receiving my letters? I wrote them one in Italian, did they get it.
Have written to quite a few people but don't seem to receive any answers. If they don't answer they will not hear from me. I could use that time in writing you more often.
Have you taken any pictures of yourself and Lucille recently. If you have, send them along.
Have you received the gift I sent you? Hope you and your mother like them.
Tony wrote me, and told me he is getting a nineteen day furlough. Pretty lucky fellow. Hope he had a good time.
Glad to hear that you are still corresponding with Gene's mother. I see him around but don't get a chance to go out with him, I believe I have explained why in my former letters.
We still have rain and mud as our companions. Nothing we can do about it but grin and bear it . Or should I say complain and bear it. That's more like it. We are always complaining in this army anyway.
I sent Larry a letter yesterday, it takes quite a while for it to reach him. No word from Frank yet.
I don't know if I will get a chance to see him, although I hope I would.
Everything here is still quiet. Perhaps the lull before the storm. When it does storm it will spell the annihilation of Germany. Something which we are all hoping and praying will happen soon.
Its getting late Jean, so I will have to close. But before I do give my best wishes to Mom, pop, Joey baby Lucille and yourself.
Don't worry we will all be home shortly.
Your loving husband
Sal.



Free mail censored mail
photo chrome letter card of Birmingham England
February 4, 1944Free mail
Censored mail
(enclosure card: To my Valentine
Love's gained the Victory
O'er my heart,
I dream of you alone,
Tell me you'll be my Valentine -
I want you for
My own!
Sal.
RAPHAEL & SONS LTD
FINE ART PUBLISHERS TO
THEIR MAJESTIES THE KING AND QUEEN
AND TO HER MAJESTY QUEEN MARY
LONDON NEW YORK
COPYRIGHT MADE IN ENGLAND)
Somewhere in England
February 19, 1944
Dear Jean,
All the while I thought you had received my Valentine card, instead it was returned to me, because it was not mailed here in camp. I had put air-mail stamps on it, to make sure you would receive it in time. Incidentally it costs twenty-five cents to send air mail from the United Kingdom. I had also sent you some pictures of the town I had visited they also were returned. The gift I sent you and your mother will probably be returned to me. I am enclosing the Valentine in this letter, sorry hon that its late.
I will forward the gifts the same day that I receive then, I am sorry for building your hopes in expectation of receiving them. Give my apologies to your mother also.
I received a letter from Roy and Mary to-day, also two V mail letters from you. Mail seems to be coming pretty regular now. I am writing to you as often as I possibly can. In the event you don't here from me, you will know that its because its beyond my control.
There isn't much I can say in my letters as the censorship is becoming stricter. For all I know maybe my former letters were all cut up or blackened out.
Well bye-bye for awhile and give my best to all
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Of that question covering Dominicks boat the answer is NO!


Free mail censored
February 22, 1944
Dear Jean,
I have been wondering if you received the package I sent you. It hasn't been returned to me, I am therefore presuming that they will send it on to you.
The weather here has been cold, with occasional snow flurries, we have had some rain also, just to add a little variety.
To-morrow I expect to visit the same town I did the last time. Will let you know of I visit any historic places.
To-date I haven't heard from Frank or Larry yet, I believe an answer is forthcoming real soon.
It is quite difficult for me to look Pat Barry up, because he has a different A.P.O. number than I.
Sam Giordano must be close by, I haven't contacted him as yet. You see we don't yet much time to ourselves. Matter of fact this has been the first day off I have had in eighteen days.
Mary tells me that Danny received his draft notice, I hope he doesn't get in this army. He may get a deferment because of his occupation.
I though he was coming out this way instead he is somewhere in the South Pacific. I hope that he will be able to get in touch with Larry.
How is everything back home? Have you had Lucille vaccinated, where, on her arm or leg. How many teeth has she now. Glad to hear that she is attached to pop so much. Do you think she will recognize me when I return.
Give my best wishes to everyone.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail
Censored February 25, 1944
ENGLAND
My dear Jean,
Sending you a de-hydrated news report, as you call it, to let you know that everything is going along fine.
Haven't heard from you for five days now, suppose I will receive them all at one time.
Have you received the money order and gift which I sent?
Glad to hear that you received the bond. Go out and buy yourself a dress with it. When you receive the money order buy the baby and yourself some more clothes. I know that you both need them.
Keep smiling, this war can't last much longer. Regards to all
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail
Censored
England
February 24, 1944
Dear Jean,
I had my day off and went to town, as I said I was going to do . The time went so fast that its hard to believe that I have had a day off. I will have to wait approximately three weeks before I can before I can expect another one.
I tried to buy something in town but to no avail, you need coupons. Prices are sky high on everything.
I visited a few places, nothing to write home about tho.
I admire these English people, they have to do with-out so many things, yet they don't complain, keep smiling is their attitude. Most of the women I have seen are poorly dressed, nearly all of them walk around stocking less, in cold weather no less.
I bought a dew picture post-cards which I am enclosing, I hope you like them.
I am going to try to look up Frank Tasso, I've a hunch he is quote a distance from here. Will let you know if I succeed.
Haven't received any mail from you now going into the fourth day, no packages neither. I wish they would improve the postal system.
Oh yes, I received a letter from Pete and Marion, sure was glad to hear from them. I am going to write then to-night.
How is Baby Lucille, bet she's grown quite abit. Sorry I can't be around to see her develop. Is she still a good baby always smiling.
How about Pop, Mon Joey and yourself, everything O.K.
The Jerries interrupted our sleep one night, not for long tho, they didn't do any damage neither.
Well Bye-bye till my next letter and take good care of the baby and yourself.
Your loving husband
Sal.
(enclosure: postcards a real photograph H.M. THE QUEEN Elliott & Fry Ltd, copyright, printed and published by J. Salmom Sevenoaks, England from an original water colour drawing by W. W. Quartremain)
Enclosure

Vmail February 26, 1944
Censored ENGLAND
Dearest Jean,
A whole week has gone by without hearing from you. It seems as if they would attempt to better the mail service. I hope you don't have the same trouble with my mail.
I received a letter from my cousin Jim, he's in Louisiana. He seems to like it.
Its been pretty quiet here lately. Hope it remains this way a little longer.
Were you able to get me a camera and some films? Whatever you do, don't make it an expensive one. Haven't received any packages yet.
Tell everyone I miss them all especially you and the baby. Any pictures yet?
Your loving husband
Sal.

Free mail
UNITED STATES ARMY SOLDIERS LETTER BLUE ENVELOPECENSORED MAIL
EnglandEnclosure cameo photo of Sal
Dearest Jean,
By means of this blue envelope I feel free to say what I think, without fear of my officers reading it, as this letter is censored by some-one other than my immediate officers.
Well they have me acting as a maintenance man, it my job to see that the cranes trucks and tractors are in daily operation. I have been doing my job as best as I know how, but I know as much about cranes, trucks and tractors as the man in the moon. While doing my job I have learned to operate three different types of cranes.
I don't like this type of work, not because of the work, but because I was definitely promised an opportunity to do my type of work when I volunteered for the engineers.
I am sorry that I told you I expected to be made corporal, if they hadn't changed company commanders I believe I would have gotten it.
Now it seems to be a case of who you know, not what you know. By the way its not a reflection on our company commander, as I believe he is honest and doing his best. The trouble seems to go down to the sargents upon whose recommendations he acts. If you associate with the right group you'll get a rating, if not, well no matter how hard you work, you'll never be advanced.
I was going to ask for a transfer out of the engineers entirely, but that seems quite difficult to obtain.
Therefore I am just going to ride along and hope this darn war ends soon so I can tell them all to go jump in the lake.
I was greatly upset for a while about the broken promises, but now I don't mind, and just take it as it comes.
Don't worry about me, as I will continue to do my best, and I'm cot as unhappy as this letter may suggest. Its just a case of getting something off my chest, and this blue envelope gives me that opportunity.
Of course I miss you and the baby, that makes me unhappy at times, but when I see what the English are going through I thank God that we are here to prevent the same from happening to our loved ones.
Don't worry about me playing around with other girls. I just haven't time for them, even if I did have the time I wouldn't do so, as I have too much respect for you and the baby. You and the baby are the only ones who really matter to me.
I never was very good at sentimental speeches, I believe I can say it much better with pen and ink that I love you, always have and always will be
Your loving husband
Sal.

 

February 27, 1944 

Respect
Vmail
Censored
Somewhere in England
Dear Jean,
I finally heard from you today, your letter was dated the second of February.
The weather has been quite cold, we wouldn't mind the cold, if it wasn't so darn damp. You would imagine that we would become accustomed to this climate.
I have written a letter to Frank Tasso and expect to hear from him shortly. I doubt very much if I shall be able to see him personally, as I believe he is quite a distance from me.
I have a firm conviction that Sam Giordano is close by but time is so precious and rare that I doubt very much if I shall ever get to see him unless he tried to contact me, he has more possibilities than I, nevertheless I shall attempt to reach him somehow.

 

 

February 28, 1944

As you know I have written to Frank and Larry and have not heard from them as yet, hope they answer me soon.
I have been writing to you every day, due to that fact I find it very difficult to write an interesting letter also that we have the dame routine day in and day out . If something interesting were to occur, I wouldn't be able to appraise you of it.
I haven't much time left Jean, therefor I will have to close this letter.
Let mom and pop know that I haven't received their package yet.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail
Censored England
March 4, 1944
Dear Jean,
Surprised but happy, to hear that Danny was able to see Larry, and all the time I thought he was headed this way. You can imagine how surprised Larry was to see Danny.
Don't worry about Larry he will be all right. My advice is to pretend everything is fine between Connie and your family, at least while hi is in service. He probably hasn't as much time to write as I. I haven't received the package with the brush yet, anyway thank Joey, Mr. Ryder and Pop for me.
So Mike is going to get married again, hope he is as lucky as I.
You say Nick was married, hi is pretty lucky to be still in the States, others are not so fortunate.
Does Tony expect to be sent overseas, he didn't say yes or no in his letter. I imagine when they give a furlough that way it means something. I think Jimmy is right , it looks as if he is being sent to the South Pacific.
I hope you didn't have any trouble getting my package. Did you have to pay duty on it? I wouldn't be a bit surprised.
Glad to hear that you paid my aunt a visit. I can't understand why the letter was censored so badly, was it the one written in Italian. I try very hard to be careful in what I write, but sometimes it can't be helped. I trust that my letters to you are not that way.
It won't be very long Jean, all indications now point to a hasty and successful conclusion to this war
Give my best to everyone
Your loving husband
Sal.


V mail March 5, 1944
Censored England
Dearest Jean,
I received three letters to-day, one from a friend at the plant, and one from Emeline and my sister-in-law Mary. I didn't receive any from you. I have been receiving your mail regularly.
To-day is Sunday and we have been given the day off, we can hardly believe it, there must be a catch some where. I went out to the straw stack across the road and dilled my mattress with some of oft also shook about ten pounds of dust out of my blankets. I have done all the chores that I haven't had time to do. The army won't take an excuse that we haven't time, they just want it done.
Everything going along fine. Remember me to all the folks back home
Your loving husband.
Sal



Vmail March 6, 1944
Censored ENGLAND
Dearest Jean,
I have written a letter and received a reply from Frank Tasso, we are doing our best to make arrangements, so that we can meet some-where. He seems very interested and would like some first hand information about his kin-folk. He was notified about his mother exactly one month after she passed away. He also requested me to remember him to Pete and his wife Marion, let them know, won't you. Tell the Tasso family not to worry about him as he is all right.
I am also feeling fine, catching up on a little sleep too.
No answer from Frank or Larry as yet. Did you receive the package O.K.
Give my love to everyone.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Free mail
Censored
England
March 8, 1944
Dearest Jean,
To-day I received two of your letters dated February eleventh and twelfth. You notice it has taken almost a month to reach me.
You seem to have the proper name for our barracks, only its worse. When it rains we have mud all over the floor and dust when it dries up. I also used to have a pool of water on my bed until they fixed the roof.
I am surprised to hear that Pete has been inducted, he's lucky though to be in the navy, to think I had to fight my way out of it, I could kick myself now. Sorry I didn't take the navy.
No I haven't gotten in touch with Sam or Pat yet. I have just contacted Frank Tasso and am making arrangements to meet him.
If this letter seems a repetition of my other letters its because I am now answering your letters marked 54 and 55.
In reference to your other query, we never know what we are being trained for, after all its the army, they train you for one thing then do the opposite. I believe I was wrong when I suggested that this war may last two years, it seems now as if it should be over by Christmas.
Sure its a grand feeling knowing that there are two people in the world who really care whether you return or not. All the others don't mean a damn.
I guess my old job will be waiting for me. They treat servicemen pretty good.
We are getting plenty of bread now, couldn't say that a few weeks ago. There seems to be a shortage of sugar, once in awhile we have to drink our coffee without it, and it tastes like hell.
No I don't need any reading matter, I haven't read a thing since I got in this army and I have no intention of doing so. Haven't even read the manuals which are issued to us.
If you wish you may send me some cookies and candy and some canned fruit, that's about all. Thanks a lot.
I finally heard from your brother Frank he is doing well. He has been receiving plenty of packages and mail. I am glad to hear it. Also told him about Charlie visiting my uncle. Send him my uncles address I think he is close by. Here it is. Salvatore Acito, Altavilla di Silentina, Provincia di Salerno.
So long for now, bet this war will be over by Christmas.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Regards to the folks.
P.S. I have decided to enclose Franks letter, the censoring was done by me. Just the cuss words were cut out.
(no letter enclosed)



V mail March 11, 1944
Dearest Jean, ENGLAND
Glad to hear that you and your mother liked the gift. By the way you may expect another one, this time for you and the baby. I will send it out in a few days. Gifts are very difficult to buy as they have a one hundred percent tax placed on them.
Your letters are arriving slowly but surely, sometimes a month and a half after you post them.
I wouldn't mind seeing some of that snow you were talking about. Maybe I will see some of it before the year is up. I've got my fingers crossed.
I received a letter from Tony telling me that his furlough is practically over. Will answer him to-morrow night. Give my love to everyone. Your loving husband Sal.


Free mail
Censored mail
England
March 11, 1944
Dearest Jean,
Received five of your letters to-day.
Yes, I remember Lala, he was pretty lucky to make lieutenant, that fact alone has helped to keep him in the States. Don't believe it when he says he is anxious to go overseas. He wouldn't trade places with Frank for all the tea in China.
I remember that "sour grapes" incident very well. Nevertheless he deserves a lot of credit, he has done much better than I.
Don't worry about Larry, you should be hearing from him shortly. After all he may not have the time to write. We in service realize that.
I too think it is a good idea if you send a few film at a time.
Hope the pictures you took Sunday come out all-right. Would like to have some.
Sorry to hear that your mother isn't feeling well. Hope she feels better soon.
Sal Sabella is lucky at that, to get a discharge for a leg wound. He's entitled to it, anyone is who has seen action.
You go right ahead and cash those bonds, cash all of them if need be. Whatever money you have at home is yours to do with as you will.
Surprised that Roy and Mary didn't stop in to see you. I've received a few letters from them.
Did you receive my Valentine? It wasn't in the box, it was enclosed in an envelope.
Give my best wishes to all, and take good care of Lucille and yourself.
Hope I'll be home for Christmas.
Your loving husband,
Sal.


Vmail postmarked March 13, 1944 U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 518
Censored
(card)
Easter Happiness
To all the folks also.
EVERY GOOD WISH
FOR A HAPPY EASTER
AND
JOYS TO CONTINUE
From
Your loving husband
Sal.



Vmail March 14, 1944
Censored ENGLAND
-page one-
Dear Jean,
Received your letter and package to-day. Thanks for getting me a camera too. The brush is perfect, just what I needed. Haven't tested the cake yet, will let you know about it. The package was in perfect condition.
I think it's a good idea if you buy the baby a doll, she's old enough now.
Let me know your god-mother's brothers address will try to contact him.
Don't send the material to develop pictures as I will not be able to use it. Will let you know if I ever need it.
My cousin Jimmy was always a good boy, I'm sorry I couldn't do more for him. Wish he were coming out here instead of the opposite direction. Too bad I couldn't gain Angie's confidence, I tried hard enough.
Loving husband
Sal
(CONTINUED)
-PAGE TWO- SAME PLACE
Hello-
Lucille finally started to cut here teeth hope she doesn't cut many more before I get home.
I am going to write to my cousin Charlie, as there is a friend of mine with the same Apo number. Incidentally he is a Captain. One of the boys I associated with in the village, most of my friends seem to have progressed exceedingly well.
Everything has been quiet here, haven't lost any sleep in a long time.
I am sending you the gift to-morrow, its not much, just a little something for the baby.
Give my thanks to your folks for helping you with the package, which I sure they did . Remember me to my aunt and uncle.
Your loving husband
Sal
THATS ALL!


Vmail
Censored March 16, 1944
England
Dear Jean,
I received a letter and another package from you to-day. They sure come in handy, as usual the package was in perfect order. I am going to cut the cake to-night, and have some of the boys taste it.
The beer is terrible, I've tried to drink it a couple of times, but no go. Can't answer your other question.
I don't know about that picture in 'Life', we did take a hike but I don't believe anyone photographed us. It may be mistaken identity.
I sent the gift out yesterday, but don't expect it for a couple of weeks after you receive this letter. Packages travel slowly.
Thanks for the package, hope to be home before the year is up.
Hope you enjoyed the opera.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail
Censored mail March 17, 1944
ENGLAND
Dear Jean,
Sorry to hear that my aunt took it so hard. I have written a letter on consolation to her, hope it helps.
Wish Jimmy was coming here instead of the opposite direction. He will be all-right, anyway I believe this war is in its last stages, before you know it, we will all be home again.
The cake tasted swell, I cut it up into fourteen pieces and divided it all up. All the boys liked it too. I still have some stuff left and am taking it easy with it.
Haven't heard from Larry yet. Did you receive Frank's letter that I enclosed .I had censored it myself. There was nothing important cut out, just a few cuss words that we men use.
Love
Sal


Free mail
Censored England
March 18, 1944
Dear Jean,
I have been writing to you as often as I can possibly do so. I hope you have been receiving my mail.
Here it is Saturday and believe it or not, they have given us a day of rest, we are not permitted to go to town on this day. It feels grand to get up late, (minus breakfast) shower shave, mend our clothes and do our other necessary chores that we haven't been able to do all week.
Did you ever receive the Valentine card I sent?
I am still doing the same type of work, and am trying to make it interesting. I don't know whatever gave them the idea that I understood the operation of this equipment.
You asked if this meant we were due for combat. All soldiers over here are subject to combat duty at a moments notice.
We have had some real nice weather lately and hope it continues. Some of the boys are kidding by saying that summer lasts about ten days in this part of the country.
Its a strange sight to see green grass and trees in the winter time, but that is just what we see. The main complaint seems to be the lack of sunshine.
I received a letter from this friend of mine at the plant and he tells me that he, with the help of his mother, have sent me two packages which I should be receiving soon. Nice of them don't you think. I have written them a letter of thanks.
I am requesting the camera to make certain that you don't have any trouble sending it to me.
I should be able to make good use of it.
I really believe this war is going to end before Christmas, after all it can't go on forever. I wish this darn war would end to-morrow.
How are you making out with finances? Don't forget what I told you. If you need the money, use it.
Glad to hear Lucille is coming along so well, keep up the good work.
Give my best wishes to Mom. Pop, Joey and the baby
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail
Censored March 20, 1944
ENGLAND
Dearest Jean,
No mail now for a few days, matter-of-fact no has received any. There should be good a goodly bunch soon.
I received another letter from Frank, he says everything going along fine. He also gave me some advice which I shall heed if the time ever comes.
Censorship makes it difficult for me to write an interesting letter.
Has Danny come home yet? If he comes out this way tell him to try to look me up. He could send me a cable-gram when he arrives.
How is my aunt and uncle feeling? How is everyone home, baby coming along all-right. She's too young to start walking isn't she! Have you received the gift?
Give my love to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail
Censored March 24, 1944
I ENGLAND
Dearest Jean,
I received another letter from Frank he is still going strong and doing fine. He is receiving my mail of which I am glad to hear. He keeps asking me for more. I am writing to him as often as I can do so, I have written to Larry also, but can't seem to get a reply.
Well yesterday was my day off I tool advantage of it by going to town, the same one that I sent you pictures of. It has the same environment as New York City. Time went so fast that it seems as if I had never been there. There is nothing interesting to write about as I spent most of the time at the Red Cross.
Love
Sal
(CONTINUED)
March 24, 1944
II ENGLAND
Dearest Jean,
Spring is here. The only outward sign we have are the trees beginning to blossom, as I've told you before most of the trees were green all winter.
There is no one I would like to have meet me at the boat when I come home but you and the baby. The time may not be far off.
No I wasn't hinting for any Varga girls pictures, we have our recreation hall full of them now.
Maybe I did make a mistake in the date of the letter you were referring to I'll watch that closely to see that it doesn't occur again.
Give my love to everyone.
Your loving husband
THATS ALL! Sal.


Vmail
Censored March 25, 1944
Dearest Jean,
I received your eighty third letter dated March thirteenth, that's not bad service considering that one of the boys just received a letter which took eighty five days to reach him.
Joey will be lucky if he gets a discharge, then he won't have to worry about coming to this hell-hole.
I received a beautiful package from this friend of mine. I wrote and thanked him and his mother for their kindness. By the way I still have some left that you sent me.
Yes I love you and he baby more than anything else in the world. I hope some day to be able to prove it. Will write you a longer letter during the week. Give my love to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail
Censored March 28, 1944
ENGLAND
Dear Jean,
Within the past two days I have received ten letters and another package from my friend Fred. Four of the letters were from you, including the photo-graphs. I think all of you look swell. I also received one from Frank, I will include his with my next letters.
Its happening again, the Jerries have disturbed our sleep, its really nothing serious.
I haven't much time, but will write you a longer letter in a few days.
Give my love to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.


OUT OF ORDER OUT OF ORDER EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
Vmail
Censored March 12, 1944
England
Dearest Jean,
Received two of your letter to-day. You may use whatever type mail you desire. I've noticed you are using regular postage instead of air-mail. I think it's a good idea as I don't believe there is direct air-mail over the pond not for six cents any way.
Don't you worry about me as I will be all -right. I sent you a letter in a blue envelope which you should be receiving soon. I have been frank in that letter, it explains my position.
Haven't received anymore packages as yet. I managed to have the last one last a whole week.
I believe I have written for enough packages for awhile, Perish the idea of me being bashful. Will let you know if I need anything. Regards to all. No word from Larry yet. Your loving husband Sal.
　

Vmail
Censored March 30, 1944
Dear Jean,
Haven't had much time to write, but will try to catch up. Remember what I told you, if you don't hear from me.
Everything is going along fine couldn't be any better.
The weather has improved considerably, maybe it won't be as bad as we had expected.
I heard from my friend Stanley, he's the one who worked at my place and who was in our rival company. Well he is in new Guinea. Its a rough place, I'm glad we weren't sent there.
I have answered your brother Frank's letter, have also written to Larry.
Give my best wishes to everyone.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Green envelopeFree mail green envelope
This envelope must nit be used for money or valuables; cannot be registered and will not be censored by unit censors but by the Chief Base Censor. A SEPARATE ENVELOPE MUST BE USED FOR EACH LETTER.
I certify that the enclosed letter was written by me, refers only to personal matters. And does not refer to military or other matters forbidden by censorship regulations.
Friday
March 31, 1944
Dearest Jean,
Everything going along fine, no complaints.
Have you received the second package I sent?
We are working pretty hard now, and may continue to do so for a long time to come. I don't have to elucidate as I believe you read the papers.
I am still on the same type of work and am learning more of it every day.
I am enclosing Frank's letter, he seems to be doing very well for himself, getting ratings, ribbons and medals. Your family should be very proud of him.
Don't worry about him as I'm sure he will come out unscathed.
Well the Jerries disturbed our sleep again, a very short disturbance at that.
Gosh I'm at a loss at what to write, I'll bet the people in the States think we must have a lot of interesting stories to tell, its quite the opposite I can assure you.
We have the same old routine day in and day out. We live from day to day and hope the future will take care of itself.
If anything interesting were to happen we couldn't write about it anyway.
Have you seen my aunt and uncle lately?
How is your mom and dad coming along, is Joey O.K.
I would like to make a request for six pair of cotton socks. Color white or gray and three black ties. Black ties are the vogue here in the E.T.O. Will you please include some cookies and candy. It doesn't have to be a box of candy, those penny candies are just as well.
Thats all for now Jean will write again soon.
I love you, as ever
Your loving husband
Sal.


Hello Sal,
I can't understand why you haven't been receiving my mail as I've been answering your letters promptly. I received the cookies from home & I write quite frequently. I also told them that we correspond quite regularly. Say Sal- I was awarded the "Silver Star Medal" by the General himself. I'm sending it home as it's a pretty medal. Larry isn't writing home and I guess I'll have to get him on the ball. I'd sure like to see the baby before she get big. There's one thing we've to admit Sal and that's that we've got the best Mom in the world. She'll do anything for us and I'd like to see her real soon. She's pretty smart too. Well Sal I'm forced to close now as there won't be any light in a few minutes so until next time take care of yourself and I'll be seeing you soon. Yep - I might be seeing you soon.(I'm pretty sure.)
Your brother in law,
Frank


Vmail
Censored April 1, 1944
ENGLAND
Dearest Jean,
Received your letter numbered(inkblotted out) its nice to know that Joey tales you to a movie occasionally. Stay away from those type of pictures and I believe you will feel better.
When I get back home I will have to take you and the baby horse-back riding. By the way how is my riding habit, and boots are they in good shape.
To-day I heard from Mary, Pete and Tommy Garacci. That's how the mail situation is, we don't receive any mail for four or five days, then we get them all at once.
You are probably referring to tomatoes, well, we get them juiced, stewed and boiled. I'm kind of sick of them now. Would like a good tomato salad though. Give my love to all, take care of baby I love you too,
Sal.


Free maill
Censored April 6, 1944
Dear Jean,
Received your letters # 89 & 90 to-day. Vmail is the quickest way of the two, but keep it up as you are sending regular mail also.
I also received a package from my company, one from Roy and Mary, and another one from my friend at the plant. If you see Mary tell her I said thanks. As I may not be able to write here for a few days.
I went to town yesterday and tried to buy you a gift, but there was nothing worthwile so instead I am sending you the money (4 [pound symbol] four pounds to be exact. You may do as you wish with it.
It will not be in this letter as I have to turn it over to one of our officers, and he will take care of it.
You don't state whether you received the second package which I sent.
I am sorry to hear about Roy being in 1A. I sincerely hope they don't take him. Can't understand why they are still calling up men.
We've got this thing pretty near finished now. Wish they would leave those fathers home.
We have been having some nice weather, and I hope the camera gets here soon so I can take some pictures. It takes a package about five weeks to reach me.
Everything is going along fine, perhaps our optimistic view that this war will end soon has something to do with it. It just can't last much longer.
I will say so long for awhile, and keep up the good work with Lucille.
Give my best wishes to Mom, Dad, Joey and Pete and Marion. Your loving husband
HAPPY EASTER!


Free mail
Censored April 8, 1944
England
Dear Jean,
I received a letter and a package from you to-day.
The camera is beautiful, I expect to take some pictures to-morrow. It takes quite awhile to get them developed here, in some instances they haven't the paper to print them, therefore they just give us the negatives, we can't mail negatives you know. Those cookies were swell also, I still have some left.
Very sorry to hear about Ann, will drop her a line as you suggested.
Your letters are reaching me all-right, so don't worry about it.
Whatever gave you the idea that the Americans were defeated at Cassino. It seems to me as if both sides are trying a little strategy. There will be a final result shortly.
I sent out the money order yesterday, five pounds instead of four, its equivalent to twenty dollars. Hope you receive this and the gift real soon.
Received a letter from Jimmy, seems as if he is in the same place, I thought he would have been shipped by now, will drop him a line.
You ask me to continue writing for packages, does the post office check to see if its my handwriting?
I have about four packages now, they sure come in handy.
Have written to Frank Tasso, we may be able to meet yet, there's an awful lot of writing to do before we can make a definite appointment.
Give my best wishes to your folks and Joey, and sincerely hope you enjoy your Easter dinner. Too bad we are not home to share it.
Your loving husband
Sal.


Vmail
Censored April 10, 1944
England
Dear Jean,
I received the pictures if your godparents. I think you misunderstood me, what I meant was that they are from the same town, I'll ask if they are acquainted with her family.
Tell Red I couldn't figure out which one was the chicken. All kidding aside the pictures are real good, it seems to me those are the ones I supposed.
If Frank ever comes to this country you and your folks can rest assured that I will get to see him.
Send me the Massini's address and I will drop them a line.
Give my best wishes to all, hope to be seeing you soon.
Your loving husband
Sal.


free mail England
Censored April 10, 1944
Dear Jean,
This letter is supplementary to the Vmail of the same date. You have probably received the Vmail a week ago.
Its very difficult for me to make any sense when answering your letters, for instance four days ago I receives a letter dated March 30^th, to-day I received one dated the 25^th of the same month.
I've answered yours of the 30^th now I am trying to answer the 25^th.
I am terribly sorry to hear about Anne, doctors have been wrong so often that it wouldn't surprise me a bit if they were wrong this time.
About Mrs. Massini's brother, I meant if he was in this country I would try to get in touch with him, also that fellow I met came from the same town, Do you understand now. If not ask me some more questions.
I wish you would write to Jimmy, as I doubt very much if he gets mail. There isn't much anyone can do with her Angie as she won't listen, she will just have to be left alone.
I can't understand Larry, I have written to him a few times. But still no answer. Does he ever say whether or not he received my letters. Maybe my language was a little too strong to suit him. I gave him hell for not writing home more often. Could be that he never received my mail.
Pete always did like to sleep in the kids bed, so he ought to be right at ease now.
I hope they don't take Roy in this army, it would be very hard on his kids. Besides I think he can help the war effort more by working in the ship-yard.
I imagine by this time that Pete Coccaro is in the navy. Kind of rough on his family too.
I will have to close now, therefor remember me to the D'Anolfo family, Pete and Marion and the Tasso's and Saetta's. Also give my best wishes to Mom, Dad Joey and baby Lucille and take care of yourself.
Your loving husband
Sal.
　
　
Vmail
Censored April 11, 1944
ENGLAND
Dear Jean-
G.I.
SITTING ON MY G.I. BED
MY G.I. HAT UPON MY HEAD
MY G.I. PANTS, MY G.I. SHOES
EVERYTHING FREE - NOTHING TO LOSE
G.I. RAZORS, G.I. COMB
G.I. WISH I WERE HOME.
II
THEY ISSUE EVERYTHING WE NEED
PAPER TO WRITE ON, BOOKS TO READ,
THEY ISSUE FOOD THAT MAKES YOU GROW.
G.I. WANT A LONG FURLOUGH!
III
YOUR COAT, YOUR SHOES, YOUR G.I. TIE
EVERYTHING FREE, NOTHING TO BUY
YOU GOT YOUR FOOD, FROM A G.I. PLATE.
BUY YOUR NEEDS AT A G.I. RATE.
IV
ITS G.I. THIS AND G.I. THAT,
G.I. AHIRCUT, G.I. HAT
EVERYTHING HERE IS, GOVERNMENT ISSUE -
G.I. WISH THAT I COULD KISS YOU.
YOUR LOVING HUSBAND
Sal.


Vmail April 14, 1944
Censored England
Dear Jean,
Received a letter from Frank, Helen and yourself.
As Franks letter is strictly personal, I'm not forwarding it as I have done in the past. Its full of advice which he thinks I may need. He is taking good care of himself and doing all-right. So you and your folks needn't worry about him.
I am doing all-right also, everything going along fine.
Have you received the package yet?
Sorry to hear that the Uncle is having so much trouble with Angie. Not interested in the other two people you mentioned. Your mom and dad is good enough for me . Cheerio! Your loving husband
Sal.
　
　
　
　
　
 Sunday