HEADQUARTERS

83rd Infantry Training Battalion (Rifle)

Camp Roberts, California

 

13 November 1944

 

Dear Friend:

 

            There are times in the life of every nation when it is forced to call upon its men and women to rise to the defense of the nation’s honor, life, and the principles of justice and morality for which it stands.  The present is such a time in our nation’s history.

 

            I wish to offer my congratulations that your loved one is numbered with the Armed Forces of our country, and is now undergoing his training in the 83rd Infantry Training Battalion here at Camp Roberts.

 

            I am glad to send you my personal greetings, and inform you that your loved one is being cared for in a spiritual as well as physical way.

 

            There are several splendidly equipped chapels at Camp Roberts, designed to meet the requirements of all religious faiths.  Catholic, Protestant and Jewish services are conducted every Sunday and also on weekdays when feasible.  These services are given wide publicity and the men are encouraged to attend.  When the men are out in the field and unable to come to the chapel, the chaplains bring the services to them in the field.

 

            The men are encouraged to see the chaplain, and talk over their problems with him.  It is not easy for a man of peace to become a soldier.  It is not easy for a young man to reconstruct his whole life to accord with army ways.  Very often the chaplain can help a soldier over the rough spots during this period of adjustment, and be source of comfort and strength.

 

            In this hour of perplexity, when men’s hearts are failing for fear, we need the strengthening power of God’s word and message for our faith and life so we can face the dark and troubled days ahead with complete trust in His Fatherly care.

 

            We know that you are proud of your soldier and willing to share his sacrifice.  Write to him often, always in a cheerful, uncomplaining and loving spirit.  The most precious thing you can send him is a letter.  He has a big job to do here.  He will do his job here and do it well, if he receives the proper support from the home front.  A cheerful and newsy letter is always a great help.  If there is serious troubles go immediately to your local Red Cross; they will contact him here immediately and aid you meanwhile.

 

            Be assured that I shall continue to serve you r loved one as a faithful chaplain so long as he is assigned to my unit.  May I ask for your prayers that God may bless my efforts as Chaplain.

 

Wishing you every grace, blessing and happiness, I remain,

 

Sincerely yours,

 

Anthony F. Morrissey