Pvt. Oliver Bilhorn,
.
Saturday May 1, 1943
Dear Ollie,
We have moved back and are nearly settled but have aching “backs, legs and other things” hence my delay, again, in writing!
Mother told us of her conversation with you last Saturday evening, and we were very glad to hear that you are not being sent across now. Congratulations on having completed your basic training! Now, I suppose, you are digging into your assigned job. It will take some time to get adjusted to the change, but I think you’re a swell soldier, Ollie, you are adaptable– and that’s what the army or scout life requires, almost above everything else!
Mom said that she didn’t know what your work was supposed to be. Is it Quarter- master corps?
I haven’t seen mom since Easter- as I’ve been so blamed crippled. I think I over- lifted or worked or something but if we continue to have such marvelous sunshine as we have today, (after continued cold & frost even up there last night!!)I’ll be healed soon, I am sure.
Our gardens are started but there’s so much work remaining! Also, Phil bros home seventy two baby leghorn chicks and do they keep on hopping! He couldn’t get his pal “rocks” but we are thankful for these! My bay window here is ablaze with red and yellow tulips and golden daffodils! Soon our other tulip beds will be flowering! The buds are opening today. I hope to bring mom out to see “the passing show” next week, if I can use my achy leg to drive with!
This week
Tuesday, I brought Fred Roloff and Louisa over for the film and lunch and part
of the P.M. Fred was to leave yesterday for his encampment in
I
understand from mom that Ray Struble will be coming this way in mid-June with
his bride, Ruth. Fred says that she is a lovely girl! He and Ray have
been keeping in touch with each other while Ray was in
Did mother
tell you of the nice Easter at
See! I’d love to see you and chat with you and ask a hundred questions!!!
Do you
think that you will be stationed at
I’ll be eager to get your next letter! I just called mom and she gave me your changed address.
Phil is going to town now so will send this on its way with a load of best wishes, and love from
Your
sis – Xen, from Phil, too and Barkey!
His toe is quite well now – but he still has a bad mark on his tight from his
last fight – with Prince! What a dog!
On back of Envelope:
Pvt. Oliver Bilhorn writes,
You ask me what I’m fighting for
In this vast global war?
I see a child at mother’s knee
In prayer for God at sea
I see a youth engaged in play
In his own carefree way
I see a couple newly wed
I think of those who fought and died
I see and then think of those who fought and died
2 divisions
4 4 4 4
couple hills& valley
men & women