France

April 30, 1945

My dearest wife:

I guess you people at home had some excitement yesterday when you heard the rumor the war was over. According to the paper, some towns really went wild. I guess the people that had some whiskey saved for the big occasion is about all used up by now. The poor civilians. It really didn’t bother us over here as we are used to rumors and didn’t think anything of it. It makes me boil to hear the people at home waiver to the prisoners and I have an article here where some hide are putting a PW on there back. What’s wrong with the America people. I saw and read some true facts about the German prison camps. I think the best German is the dead one. The war is at the final stage and probably just a matter of days. I’ll sure be glad when its over. I also saw an article in the York where some civilian women wanted to come overseas. They think they can make more money and they also think the prices are very high in the states, well they should come over here and see how conditions are. You pay about 40 or 50 dollars for a dress, maybe more. I’d sure send them a letter if I’d know their address.

Here I am blowing my top when all I want to tell you is I love you darling, awfully much. How about buying me a quart and keep it until I come home. And honey you have my permission to have a big drink when you hear the war is over. I want you to celebrate for both of us. Do you think you can drink that much?

I have the old watch working now. It had kept perfect time for the last 4 ½ days. I finally won. Don’t forget a Searle never gives up.

I don’t think France is very healthy. In fact I have had a cold ever sence. I am her and so have some others. Just let me come back to the good old U.S. I have been through most of those places you mentioned. I take it you received that last money order of 9/5 seeing that our bank account went up some. That’s not even enough to by yourself a wardrobe-is it?

I had a few letters from mother yesterday and she says she hasn’t heard from you for such a long time. I think she said the last time was in March some time. You really disappoint me honey. You must find just a little time to write to her. If you can’t find enough time, stop writing to me that night. You know she likes to hear about you and the children too, they are her grandchildren too you know.

Does Polly sleep all night? I’ll bet she is getting to be a good little girl. She is just about three months old now. Is she anything like Allen in size and weight? Is she big for her age? Tell Allen to be a good boy for his daddy is going to be home one of these days soon.

Goodnite my sweet,

All my love,

Pres