July 9, 1944

France

Dear Mary and All:

Received your V-letter and very glad to hear from you and to know that everyone is in good health. I’m feeling fine and am ok so I guess I’m lucky. It was right quiet yesterday but it’s been quite a lot of action today. Some planes were over last night but the ack ack soon chased them away. They really give you a start when you are sleeping and they start in action. They make some noise but nothing compared to what the “big toms” make. When they go off it makes the earth shake and the shells just sound like an express train going through the air. I’m darn glad they are going the other way. It’s been raining most of the time we’ve been here and that doesn’t make our type of living very comfortable. I’m living in a fox-hole and had to bale it out several times but its much safer sleeping in the ground than on top. Planes come over most every night but I’m used to that now somewhat. Thanks for offering to send some chicken and I’d really like to have some. Use this for a request if you need to. Have to close for now hoping to hear from you again soon.

Love to all,

Roland