Training in the USA
April 20, 1944
A scene from their camp in England; DeKalb Avenue is in Brooklyn, so Ted is clearly wishing he were going he were heading home rather than England.
[postmarked April 20, 1944]
Wednesday –
11:30 PM.
Dear Helen –
It is my opinion that this will be the last letter I’ll be writing from Camp Forrest. By weighing all evidence and by deduction – I think that by the time you will have received this letter – we will have arrived at our destination.
Again – by pure guesswork I think that we’ll land someplace in New Jersey. My next letter will no doubt be censored – but if these calculations are correct I will let you know by putting a comma after – Dear Helen, - if I’m not in N.J. it will be Dear Helen – (with a dash instead of a comma). I know you won’t mention any of these facts to anyone – if you know where I am, you will keep it under your snood.
The rumors on passes and furloughs are brighter – but, for no apparent reason. So, keep your fingers crossed – but don’t let your hopes too high. If we do get passes, at least, and I’m close enough – I’ll let you know some way or other – and you know that I’ll do everything possible to see you.
If I’m within a reasonable distance from Washington – my letter will begin with “Helen dear” – it’s getting complicated, eh Mata Hari?
The preparations for this movement have been grueling – with lots of work and hours and consequently not enough sleep – I see that now, it is you who are learning to get along on less sleep – whereas, now, I am the one who is not used to late hours. We’ll have to get together on this so that we both will be either wide awake or both sleepy at the same time – Utopia!
This morning we were up at 4:00 AM and I don’t know what time it will be before I get to bed – but I’ll manage.
I like to read the way you describe yourself in these letters, “draped on the couch”, what you’re wearing, what you would like to be doing – I form a mental picture from the description and, of course, add a little from memory and experience and then put myself on the couch with you and as you put it “m-m-m”.
About your job, Helen, I want you to do as you think best – and once you’ve made up your mind, act decisively. I know all about the red tape involved in changing jobs – I’ve seen exactly the same thing happen here. But, if you’re not happy in your present assignment – don’t hesitate to change – (if possible) – And if your Chairborne Infantry boss doesn’t behave – tell him that your fellah, who shot expert with the carbine this morning will be gunning for him.
And now – I too – am getting sleepy – and I must admit that I am thinking the same thing as you – per today’s letter from you.
I miss you more and more each day – Regards from my folks and mine to yours,
Love,
Ted