The Thirtieth of October [1944] – Belgium

Dear Mom –

Here it is the end of October, and this mess still goes on. We have great hopes that it won’t be long now before it’s all over in both theaters. The news of the pacific war is good. The great naval battle which greatly hinders Japan will help tremendously.

Last night I had the good fortune of seeing Bing in “Going My Way” and as you wrote it really was wonderful. Also saw “Take it or Leave it” with Phil Baker, “In Our Time” with Ida Lupino and Paul Henried, and “Stand Up and Cheer” with a host of stars. We really do enjoy these shows. They’re arranged by Special Service.

I don’t know how fast my letters are reaching you now, so I’ll take this opportunity to say “Happy Birthday” even if it is a few days early in arriving. Wish I could send you something but birthday presents are rather scarce in these parts. Hope to be with you on your next birthday.

We’re still very comfortably settled and I’m making the most of our rest period. I have a room with two other fellows and we’ve fixed it up with odds and ends and it’s very cozy. It’s the nearest thing I’ve had to a home since we were in England. I’m really quite content now, but still have the memories of so many little things we miss. By the way, if you can get it I wish you’d send some Coca Cola syrup. I’ve got an idea for making carbonated water and a coke would really go good sometimes. Also if you could get some Root Beer mix like aunt Hetter used to make. We could make up some of that too.

So long for this time. I’ll write again soon.

Love

Jack

P.S. Got your letter without the APO #

and the one explaining it too. Even if

you didn’t put it on the package it will

get here OK, So don’t worry..