Somewhere in Holland

September 19, 1944

Dear Mom-

Well our stay in Belgium was nice, but too short- and here we are in Holland I really can say that I enjoyed my stay in Belgium. I sent you a package of a few souvenirs I picked up in France and Belgium and I hope to send another soon. I certainly do hope it gets there ok. My letters have been spaced lately and maybe more so as time goes on. We’re very busy and most of my off hours are spent in sleeping so as to be in condition for the next night’s work (I’m still on the night shift). I pray that this thing will soon be over for even if there are phases that are interesting there are others that are definitely not, I’m just waiting for the day they pull us out of here and send us home.

I had letters from Helen, Cheatham and you a few days ago, first mail I’d had in quite a while except an occasional letter from you. I won’t be able to write to all my friends until we get a rest period- if we do- so pass the word along that I’m still seeing the world and that I’m okay in body and spirit.

As for the Xmas present the only thing I really need is a watch- I wish I could be at home to collect that Xmas- it’s possible too- if you do send it, it would be best to use first class mail. It cannot be insured and I think that’s the best way to send it.

I got along fine in France and Belgium with my lingo- of course here it is different. Many of the people here speak Dutch, but others German, and a few a little French. However, I’m studying up on the language and guess I’ll make out okay, I don’t think I’ll care to talk to many of the people in Germany. I’ll console myself by talking to the patients.

So long for now, look for the letter when they come and for me when you see me.

Love,

Jack