Cherbourg, France

May 11, 1945

My dearest wife:

The censorship regulations were lifted somewhat so now I can tell you where I am. We are in the port town of Cherbourg where some of the big invasions of Normandy started. The town isn’t really damaged much at all, but it is very dirty like most port towns.

I have a few more souvenirs I want to send you when I get a box made. I have a little pair wooden shoes from Belgium, and the cutest letter opener you ever saw, some post cards and a little coin bracelet. Also a handkerchief from Paris. I also have a German helmet, a cap, and a cup and saucer. I don’t know how I’ll ever send it to you but I’ll try, but maybe you don’t want all the junk.

I haven’t heard form you for a week or so. Are you alright? I had two letters today, one from Ray and one from mother. Phyllis says she has the chicken pox, and has one right on the tip of her nose. I guess you had some coal weather at home too. It has turned warmer here now, and has been warm for almost a week.

I still have my black cat. He sleeps all day and catches mice all night. He is a very nice cat, as black as coal and pretty. He is still young and he may get as big as Andy.

The set up for the point system came out today, and I guess you must have seen the system too. If I only would have had a little more time overseas. Oh well maybe better luck next time. The most points I can scare up is 74 and I need 85 or more. I always had the tough breaks like this all my life. I hope it is warmer in China. I was just thinking today, I think I will have to make the army my career, I’ll be to old and laggy to work by the time my term is up.

How are the children Maggie? It seems like a month since the last time I’ve heard anything about them. Bobby is over three months already. She must be growing like a weed, and Allen- is he really almost as big as Neal? I can hardly believe it.

There really isn’t anything new to write about. I am tired and sleepy tonight so I guess I will go to bed.

Goodnite Maggie

I love you,

Pres.