PFC Oliver Bilhorn – 36722105 William Courtney
CO A 3rd Tng
Bn 1830
N. Sawyer Ave.
December 30, 1943
Dear Ollie,
I hope you
had a very merry Christmas this year. Were you in Camp at Christmas time, or were
you somewhere else?
* * * * *
I had a most enjoyable Christmas
Day. I spent most of it reading a book called “The Nazarene” by Sholem Asch. It
is a novel based on the life of Jesus Christ, and is the most absorbing,
informative book I have ever read in the past three years. If you can, try and
get a copy—and tell me what you think of it
*
* * * *
I’ve been
spending my Christmas vacation (from school) with Bill Ronney. His leg (it was sprained
playing football) has been sore lately, but he can ride his bike and walk on
the leg.
We roam
around on our ‘cycles or sit up in his shack and blast at lead soldiers with
his “BB” gun.
We are also
collaborating with a friend of ours, Bruce Wilson, on a “Merchant Marine” game.
The game is our pride and joy and the sole user of our mental energy for these
last three days. It is very complicated, and the rules are difficult—but it’s
fun.
* * * * *
It may be a
little late but—Congratulations on your promotion to Private 1st
Class!!
* * * * *
One of my
closest friends, my locked partner in school, was drafted into the Navy. He was
18 in October and was inducted yesterday. He (his name is Robert Monder) is a
swell guy. It’ll take me a long time to get used to his absence.
* * * * *
Best of
luck always!
* * * * *
An
ex-“Star,”
William
D. Courtney