I have less than 20 letters to go, Will finish up around December 16. Give me some input as to continuing the BLOG using letters and excerpts from WWII letters I have found.
Babbling Brooke
Monday, November 30, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 107
June 2, 1951
Yonju
(If you enlarge this map, you can see WonJu just below the line that is the 38th parallel)
Hello, Darling
Lots of moving so no mail for me and none for you. Lots of rain and today very pretty. We have had showers all week but they left today. Plenty hot and lots of flies around. Lots of unburied dead cause it. So far we have had pretty good camping places. Don’t know what lies ahead.
Saw one of our planes shot down today, pilot bailed out. Wasn’t enough of the plane left to tell what sort it was. We have received some mortor fire but now are out of range. Sure as Hell been pouring out artillery fire on the Chinks.
Heard a good one today from a prisoner we captured. He said Russia had given us the Atom bomb to drop on Japan and that we didn’t have any more and that if we didn’t get out of Korea , Russia would drop one on New York City. He believed that too. We are in a dead spot for radio so don’t get much news. The rotation draft for this month that I wanted to be on was knocked off. Glad I didn’t make it now. Too many casualties the past two weeks.
Damned flies are eating me up so I’ll close now, Darling.
With all my love,
Your Bill
June 2, 1951
Yonju
(If you enlarge this map, you can see WonJu just below the line that is the 38th parallel)
Hello, Darling
Lots of moving so no mail for me and none for you. Lots of rain and today very pretty. We have had showers all week but they left today. Plenty hot and lots of flies around. Lots of unburied dead cause it. So far we have had pretty good camping places. Don’t know what lies ahead.
Saw one of our planes shot down today, pilot bailed out. Wasn’t enough of the plane left to tell what sort it was. We have received some mortor fire but now are out of range. Sure as Hell been pouring out artillery fire on the Chinks.
Heard a good one today from a prisoner we captured. He said Russia had given us the Atom bomb to drop on Japan and that we didn’t have any more and that if we didn’t get out of Korea , Russia would drop one on New York City. He believed that too. We are in a dead spot for radio so don’t get much news. The rotation draft for this month that I wanted to be on was knocked off. Glad I didn’t make it now. Too many casualties the past two weeks.
Damned flies are eating me up so I’ll close now, Darling.
With all my love,
Your Bill
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 106
May 30, 1951
Hi, Toots,
We moved up yesterday and I have never, never seen so many dead people in two wars. They were in the road until our trucks had to pass over them to get by. When they are that thick you know there were lots of Laundry men killed. Horses---never saw do many –every one has a horse. Chinese used them for pack animals and for mounted patrols, so now the Marines ride every place around camps.
I’m having one Hell of a time writing this. Mt. Tate is here. I have had phone calls, Stinson from King Btry. Came in, had turned a gun over---broke the sight mount so I’ll have to hunt Ord. Btn. Up tomorrow and get him a new gun. Never rains but it pours and that brings me back to here and the rainey season is upon us. Rumor has it that staff NCO’s are to be flown out. Maybe I’ll be home by August in spite of all I can do.
Shirl’s letter said you need new brake linings on the car. Have it done at Gorgans and let me know how much it costs. I’ll draw some money and send you. Can’t have you or Shirl driving a car with no brakes. That would be the last straw, having one of you get hurt for lack of a few dollars. I don’t know how much I have, the brakes can’t be much but is sure a hundred or so dollars, so let me know, I’ll have to send to Masan for it.
By the way, we are on the 28th again,
can’t say which way we will go. Supposed to have 6000 Chinks surrounded just over the hill. Maybe they will surround us again, who can tell?
Well, Darling, I’ll close now, a fellow just came in from Mike Btry. Wants some emory paper, maybe I’ll get to write a long letter some morning when I get up before the mob starts coming around. I Should be a Red Cross hut or USO gang out!
Lots & Lots of love.
Your Bill
May 30, 1951
Hi, Toots,
We moved up yesterday and I have never, never seen so many dead people in two wars. They were in the road until our trucks had to pass over them to get by. When they are that thick you know there were lots of Laundry men killed. Horses---never saw do many –every one has a horse. Chinese used them for pack animals and for mounted patrols, so now the Marines ride every place around camps.
I’m having one Hell of a time writing this. Mt. Tate is here. I have had phone calls, Stinson from King Btry. Came in, had turned a gun over---broke the sight mount so I’ll have to hunt Ord. Btn. Up tomorrow and get him a new gun. Never rains but it pours and that brings me back to here and the rainey season is upon us. Rumor has it that staff NCO’s are to be flown out. Maybe I’ll be home by August in spite of all I can do.
Shirl’s letter said you need new brake linings on the car. Have it done at Gorgans and let me know how much it costs. I’ll draw some money and send you. Can’t have you or Shirl driving a car with no brakes. That would be the last straw, having one of you get hurt for lack of a few dollars. I don’t know how much I have, the brakes can’t be much but is sure a hundred or so dollars, so let me know, I’ll have to send to Masan for it.
By the way, we are on the 28th again,
can’t say which way we will go. Supposed to have 6000 Chinks surrounded just over the hill. Maybe they will surround us again, who can tell?Well, Darling, I’ll close now, a fellow just came in from Mike Btry. Wants some emory paper, maybe I’ll get to write a long letter some morning when I get up before the mob starts coming around. I Should be a Red Cross hut or USO gang out!
Lots & Lots of love.
Your Bill
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Dearesr Betty
Letter # 105
May 29, 1951
Hi, Sweetheart,
What in the world is the Marine Corps doing? Just came from Novack’s office and he has a almar that will get all the reserves out who have had a year’s active duty yet they are increasing the Corps.(enclosing handwriting, don't know what "Almar" means)
I found this quote from a Book review by Jason D. Grose: "From little things like failing to capitalize "Marine" and calling the ALL MARINE messages "ALLMAR" instead of the correct term "ALMAR," to the major snafus such as his definition of a Marine, this book gets more things wrong than I have time, energy, space, or patience to list." The book was : Jarhead : A Marine's Chronicle of the Gulf War and Other Battles (Hardcover) by Anthony Swofford
One way you look at it , it is good, more promotions for us regulars but maybe we won’t be here as soon as we expect too. Only time will tell , I just hope for the best and lay my future in the lap of the Pentagon. They should know what they are doing.
Well we got a shower unit today. 14 shower heads, hot too so I went over and drenched the body. Felt good . this country is stinking now and more as the Laundry men get “ripe”. So many dead that they just can’t bury them although the Koreans are working all day gathering them up. They are still laying around popping open and stinking.
Well you know as much as I do if you hear the news we hear over from LA at nine and every hour at nights from Tokyo which gives the real news.
I was up at King Btry. Today with Tate and five Chinks surrendered to us. All looked good had hair cuts and were armed. I had a pistol and Tate didn’t have a sign of a weapon, but they wanted to give up. More and more are turning in. My opinion is that this war is about to end but where will it break out next?
I just hope I get back to my Sugar before too long. This seeing you in my dreams is OK for a while but I want to see you & talk to you when I am awake.
Lots & Lots of Love,
Your Bill
May 29, 1951
Hi, Sweetheart,
What in the world is the Marine Corps doing? Just came from Novack’s office and he has a almar that will get all the reserves out who have had a year’s active duty yet they are increasing the Corps.(enclosing handwriting, don't know what "Almar" means)
I found this quote from a Book review by Jason D. Grose: "From little things like failing to capitalize "Marine" and calling the ALL MARINE messages "ALLMAR" instead of the correct term "ALMAR," to the major snafus such as his definition of a Marine, this book gets more things wrong than I have time, energy, space, or patience to list." The book was : Jarhead : A Marine's Chronicle of the Gulf War and Other Battles (Hardcover) by Anthony Swofford
One way you look at it , it is good, more promotions for us regulars but maybe we won’t be here as soon as we expect too. Only time will tell , I just hope for the best and lay my future in the lap of the Pentagon. They should know what they are doing.
Well we got a shower unit today. 14 shower heads, hot too so I went over and drenched the body. Felt good . this country is stinking now and more as the Laundry men get “ripe”. So many dead that they just can’t bury them although the Koreans are working all day gathering them up. They are still laying around popping open and stinking.
Well you know as much as I do if you hear the news we hear over from LA at nine and every hour at nights from Tokyo which gives the real news.
I was up at King Btry. Today with Tate and five Chinks surrendered to us. All looked good had hair cuts and were armed. I had a pistol and Tate didn’t have a sign of a weapon, but they wanted to give up. More and more are turning in. My opinion is that this war is about to end but where will it break out next?
I just hope I get back to my Sugar before too long. This seeing you in my dreams is OK for a while but I want to see you & talk to you when I am awake.
Lots & Lots of Love,
Your Bill
Friday, November 27, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 104
May 26, 1951
Dearest Betty
Well we have rain & more rain and frogs galore. Seems to rain them.
Then I reckon we will move again or tomorrow. The Laundry men are drawing back again. Operation “Yo Yo” we call it up and back. They let 17 prisoners aloose up ahead of us last night. Don’t see their reason but quite often they do being funny to figure them out.
Long time no write. Been moving quite a bit haven’t had any mail from you till last night. Received one letter 15th---several on the way someplace. Also had a long letter from Mother, two pages on both sides and she had written another page but forgot to enclose it.
Well had good news today, the gods to be have authority to promote all Sgts to the rank of S/Sgt. Who have a year in grade. That will bring us up to strength in S/Sgts so may get home by August. Anyway, sure hope so. Just came from the Sgt. Maj office, they have 30 sgts eligible for S/Sgt. To be made June 1st or abouts.
Peel drops by three or four times a day just sits around then leaves. I think he takes a dim view of this war.
Sure felt close to you last night, Sugar for some reason, not that I don’t always feel close but last night I lay awake listening to the radio till after one.
boy, what a tirade that was. Reckon I better stop this sort of stuff till I have you to really tell it to you.
Your Bill
May 26, 1951
Dearest Betty
Well we have rain & more rain and frogs galore. Seems to rain them.
Then I reckon we will move again or tomorrow. The Laundry men are drawing back again. Operation “Yo Yo” we call it up and back. They let 17 prisoners aloose up ahead of us last night. Don’t see their reason but quite often they do being funny to figure them out.Long time no write. Been moving quite a bit haven’t had any mail from you till last night. Received one letter 15th---several on the way someplace. Also had a long letter from Mother, two pages on both sides and she had written another page but forgot to enclose it.
Well had good news today, the gods to be have authority to promote all Sgts to the rank of S/Sgt. Who have a year in grade. That will bring us up to strength in S/Sgts so may get home by August. Anyway, sure hope so. Just came from the Sgt. Maj office, they have 30 sgts eligible for S/Sgt. To be made June 1st or abouts.
Peel drops by three or four times a day just sits around then leaves. I think he takes a dim view of this war.
Sure felt close to you last night, Sugar for some reason, not that I don’t always feel close but last night I lay awake listening to the radio till after one.
boy, what a tirade that was. Reckon I better stop this sort of stuff till I have you to really tell it to you.
Your Bill
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 103
May 23, 1951
Good Morning, Darling
Didn’t write yesterday, just didn’t feel up to it for I had sort of planned on getting on my way to you, now I have another month to sweat out. But I am sure-- as you say the time is getting shorter & shorter. As I told you, they didn’t let the fourth group go on the last list so they all are on this one---oh yes, we also got to rotate two officers. The first to go from Artillery and who was on it? TATE. What happened? He was taken off by Regiment and Reserve Captain put on it.. A Captain who no one ever liked, Everyone seems to think Tate & I have both been given the shaft but as he told me the longer we stay over here, the less likely we are to have to come back sooner.
Well, enough of this sort of stuff.
We move today as you know by my letters & by the news we can’t trust the S. Korean Army so they are being pulled off the line & American troops going in---ah, I suppose they will use them for patrols but the Army 2nd Division just to our right flank, have been catching Hell & big enemy concentration is being built up to hit again see we are moving over to give them a hand up. If the Laundry men do hit we will bounce a few off their heads.
Well everyone is back from Chow and I just can concentrate so better stop now and get to moving around. Got two letters from you last night, mailed the 11th. Well I’ll write again soon, there are four people sitting around my bunk talking to me.
All my love,
Bill
May 23, 1951
Good Morning, Darling
Didn’t write yesterday, just didn’t feel up to it for I had sort of planned on getting on my way to you, now I have another month to sweat out. But I am sure-- as you say the time is getting shorter & shorter. As I told you, they didn’t let the fourth group go on the last list so they all are on this one---oh yes, we also got to rotate two officers. The first to go from Artillery and who was on it? TATE. What happened? He was taken off by Regiment and Reserve Captain put on it.. A Captain who no one ever liked, Everyone seems to think Tate & I have both been given the shaft but as he told me the longer we stay over here, the less likely we are to have to come back sooner.
Well, enough of this sort of stuff.
We move today as you know by my letters & by the news we can’t trust the S. Korean Army so they are being pulled off the line & American troops going in---ah, I suppose they will use them for patrols but the Army 2nd Division just to our right flank, have been catching Hell & big enemy concentration is being built up to hit again see we are moving over to give them a hand up. If the Laundry men do hit we will bounce a few off their heads.
Well everyone is back from Chow and I just can concentrate so better stop now and get to moving around. Got two letters from you last night, mailed the 11th. Well I’ll write again soon, there are four people sitting around my bunk talking to me.
All my love,
Bill
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter 102
May 21, 1951
Good Morning,
Well, rain rain rain and another rotation draft. Yes, they made four S.Sgts. so far out of the 3000 that the paper said that was being made, but we can’t send any staff home this time and I remain first on the list. Sounds like a lot of B.S. and a big run around to me.
We received a ration of beer last night, eight cans and a friend of mine gave me a case but you know me, I don’t drink too much beer so I divied up with Street & Nester. Still stays cold here at night but warms up during the day, that is when it isn’t raining.
I was beginning to get my hopes up of getting out of all this sooner but when this list came out with only 23 men on it from the 7/11, Staff NCO & officers just aren’t being rotated.
Received your two letters last night and glad you went out to the Club, Sugar. Boy the place sure must be changed, don’t sound like I’de like it very much. So Hunkey “shipped over” eh? Will he stay aboard ship or has he worked his bolt for a transfer? We are betting he will be back to J’Ville before the year is out.
Jimmy has been around all morning. Doesn’t get any sleep at night---too much shooting. We fire all night and of course the Laundry men usually attack at night but our lines are holding. The Army & ROK’s are falling back on the East & West sector leaving us up front in the central part.
All my love
Your Bill
May 21, 1951
Good Morning,
Well, rain rain rain and another rotation draft. Yes, they made four S.Sgts. so far out of the 3000 that the paper said that was being made, but we can’t send any staff home this time and I remain first on the list. Sounds like a lot of B.S. and a big run around to me.
We received a ration of beer last night, eight cans and a friend of mine gave me a case but you know me, I don’t drink too much beer so I divied up with Street & Nester. Still stays cold here at night but warms up during the day, that is when it isn’t raining.
I was beginning to get my hopes up of getting out of all this sooner but when this list came out with only 23 men on it from the 7/11, Staff NCO & officers just aren’t being rotated.
Received your two letters last night and glad you went out to the Club, Sugar. Boy the place sure must be changed, don’t sound like I’de like it very much. So Hunkey “shipped over” eh? Will he stay aboard ship or has he worked his bolt for a transfer? We are betting he will be back to J’Ville before the year is out.
Jimmy has been around all morning. Doesn’t get any sleep at night---too much shooting. We fire all night and of course the Laundry men usually attack at night but our lines are holding. The Army & ROK’s are falling back on the East & West sector leaving us up front in the central part.
All my love
Your Bill
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 100
May 19, 1951
Good Morning,
Well how’s my Sugar today? Raining all the time here. Had to make an amo run to Wonju night before last --- up all night.
Last night the guns were going steady. The Laundrymen have been at it for three days now. Don’t see how they can keep on coming but if they insist on walking into artillery they sure won’t go far.
Saw Peele yesterday, he is a verry worried man. Doesn’t go for this sort of stuff at all. Can’t blame him either.
I suppose we will be moving again soon. Division Post Office moved yesterday which means we won’t be getting mail for a day or so. Happens every time they move.
Well, Darling, I don’t know anything new or interesting. Frank Cutting was recommended for 2nd Lt. Limited duty should make a good platoon leader.
Well, every one is getting up now and stirring around so better close this and get on with the day’s work. Hot cakes for breakfast but they never have syrup---just four. Ah!
Well everyone can’t cook like you.
All my love,
Bill
May 19, 1951
Good Morning,
Well how’s my Sugar today? Raining all the time here. Had to make an amo run to Wonju night before last --- up all night.
Last night the guns were going steady. The Laundrymen have been at it for three days now. Don’t see how they can keep on coming but if they insist on walking into artillery they sure won’t go far.Saw Peele yesterday, he is a verry worried man. Doesn’t go for this sort of stuff at all. Can’t blame him either.
I suppose we will be moving again soon. Division Post Office moved yesterday which means we won’t be getting mail for a day or so. Happens every time they move.
Well, Darling, I don’t know anything new or interesting. Frank Cutting was recommended for 2nd Lt. Limited duty should make a good platoon leader.
Well, every one is getting up now and stirring around so better close this and get on with the day’s work. Hot cakes for breakfast but they never have syrup---just four. Ah!
Well everyone can’t cook like you.
All my love,
Bill
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 100
Dearest Betty
Well, the Laundrymen didn’t hit last night. I hardly expect them till the moon is full. Any way we are doing O.K.
Today we all received four more “shots” two in each arm and boy are they sore! Haven’t had mail for three days. Skies are so cloudy planes can’t come in. Hope we have some tonight but doubt it.
Turkey for supper last night, roast beef tonight, six cans of beer tomorrow and a movie every night. Tea For Two and on top of that it has rained day & night since Saturday, but I have my bunk set up so I can just turn over on my right side and see the movies. Had to make a long jeep ride last night up to Love Btry (who are separated from us) to repair a gun. Was late getting back but the show can’t start till 10:00.
I have been on my sack most of the day reading and just doing nothing at all but getting in usual amount of thinking, planning, and wishing about you & Shirl. Wish I sere with you today. It is so dreary I know you would have a wonderful light to shine on the entire outlook.
Yours forever,
Bill
Dearest Betty
Well, the Laundrymen didn’t hit last night. I hardly expect them till the moon is full. Any way we are doing O.K.
Today we all received four more “shots” two in each arm and boy are they sore! Haven’t had mail for three days. Skies are so cloudy planes can’t come in. Hope we have some tonight but doubt it.
Turkey for supper last night, roast beef tonight, six cans of beer tomorrow and a movie every night. Tea For Two and on top of that it has rained day & night since Saturday, but I have my bunk set up so I can just turn over on my right side and see the movies. Had to make a long jeep ride last night up to Love Btry (who are separated from us) to repair a gun. Was late getting back but the show can’t start till 10:00.
I have been on my sack most of the day reading and just doing nothing at all but getting in usual amount of thinking, planning, and wishing about you & Shirl. Wish I sere with you today. It is so dreary I know you would have a wonderful light to shine on the entire outlook.
Yours forever,
Bill
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter #99
May 13, 1951
Hi, Toots
Well here we are just waiting for the Laundry boys to come ramping out of the hills. All intelligence reports say 140,000 of them are prepared to jump us tonight or tomorrow but we lay better that 100,000 of them out before they break. Just hope the Army holds on our left flank. If they do we will have them.
Ah! Well let’s get to the better parts of life. Last night we had movies, “Kim”, tonight September Affair. Did they have everything so at the last minute as I was bathing, the Maj sent for me . Generator “hava no” so I borrowed one from the 1st Ord. Btn, and we had a show at 10:00 O’clock last night. Doesn’t get dark til then.
The Doctor came over and had me start his generator for him, gave me a pt. Of 100 proof and tonight I get my teeth cleaned. Was a good deal. Is very hard to get teeth cleaned out here.
Well, I’ll close now and have Kim mail this. Lots & lots of love,
Your Bill
May 13, 1951
Hi, Toots
Well here we are just waiting for the Laundry boys to come ramping out of the hills. All intelligence reports say 140,000 of them are prepared to jump us tonight or tomorrow but we lay better that 100,000 of them out before they break. Just hope the Army holds on our left flank. If they do we will have them.
Ah! Well let’s get to the better parts of life. Last night we had movies, “Kim”, tonight September Affair. Did they have everything so at the last minute as I was bathing, the Maj sent for me . Generator “hava no” so I borrowed one from the 1st Ord. Btn, and we had a show at 10:00 O’clock last night. Doesn’t get dark til then.
The Doctor came over and had me start his generator for him, gave me a pt. Of 100 proof and tonight I get my teeth cleaned. Was a good deal. Is very hard to get teeth cleaned out here.
Well, I’ll close now and have Kim mail this. Lots & lots of love,
Your Bill
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 98
May 12, 1951
Good morning, Sug,
I checked into Kapa, no word in his airlift of any C.M. Was evacuated to Japan for “piles” and as far as the 1st Marines know is still there. Yes, Hunkey is lucky had a ship under him all the time. Plenty of liberty in Japan and above aqll lots of room to store any thing he may have picked up. If we could have had any place to lug our souvenirs we could have had priceless loot from the Seoul mansion temples in Hamhung and any amount of native works of art but with just enough room for the necessities of life we don’t even carry over four pair of socks, two skivvies and a change of underwear. If we can’t wear it we don’t take it.
Sure wish I could have been with you & seen you on your first “shorts” day.We too are having nice weather but no pretty girls running around in shorts. The wimmen wear slacks here, no young ones just the feeble & old and what slacks the have. The crotch down below the knees and tight at the ankles & loose the rest of the way up.
The waist is just under the titties and a short jacket over that so when they walk with anything on their head & steady it with the hand, one tit flops out and around. Real funny & pathetic. They too carry every thing on their backs & head. Funny little shoes made of straw or rubber turned up like little boats.
Lots of troop movements today. We will probably move up too. A Army self propelled 155 gun came in last night & set up just ahead of us. Range 26,500 yds. Our range is 16,500 so we are really in the rear now but the moon is getting fuller every night & the Laundrymen always come on the full of the moon.
This has been a pretty long letter, run along and get to work. Had a bulldozer make a swimming pool here yesterday & it over ran the officer’s tent last night when it filled up. Lots of fun about 1:30. Have to fix a slues gate. Ah yes your add about Kim was a coincidence. Last night “Kim” was playing back at the 1st tank btn. Area so I sent Jackson, our jeep driver & Kim to see it. Jack said our Kim was very pleased ---said he & Kim “same same”.
Well, Sugar if I can’t get those “shorts” off my mind I’ll have to go to work till I do.
All my love forever.
Your Bill
May 12, 1951
Good morning, Sug,
I checked into Kapa, no word in his airlift of any C.M. Was evacuated to Japan for “piles” and as far as the 1st Marines know is still there. Yes, Hunkey is lucky had a ship under him all the time. Plenty of liberty in Japan and above aqll lots of room to store any thing he may have picked up. If we could have had any place to lug our souvenirs we could have had priceless loot from the Seoul mansion temples in Hamhung and any amount of native works of art but with just enough room for the necessities of life we don’t even carry over four pair of socks, two skivvies and a change of underwear. If we can’t wear it we don’t take it.
Sure wish I could have been with you & seen you on your first “shorts” day.We too are having nice weather but no pretty girls running around in shorts. The wimmen wear slacks here, no young ones just the feeble & old and what slacks the have. The crotch down below the knees and tight at the ankles & loose the rest of the way up.
The waist is just under the titties and a short jacket over that so when they walk with anything on their head & steady it with the hand, one tit flops out and around. Real funny & pathetic. They too carry every thing on their backs & head. Funny little shoes made of straw or rubber turned up like little boats.Lots of troop movements today. We will probably move up too. A Army self propelled 155 gun came in last night & set up just ahead of us. Range 26,500 yds. Our range is 16,500 so we are really in the rear now but the moon is getting fuller every night & the Laundrymen always come on the full of the moon.
This has been a pretty long letter, run along and get to work. Had a bulldozer make a swimming pool here yesterday & it over ran the officer’s tent last night when it filled up. Lots of fun about 1:30. Have to fix a slues gate. Ah yes your add about Kim was a coincidence. Last night “Kim” was playing back at the 1st tank btn. Area so I sent Jackson, our jeep driver & Kim to see it. Jack said our Kim was very pleased ---said he & Kim “same same”.
Well, Sugar if I can’t get those “shorts” off my mind I’ll have to go to work till I do.
All my love forever.
Your Bill
Friday, November 20, 2009
Dearest Betty
Well I took my first ride in a helicopter yesterday. Had to take some confidential overlays to Div. So Maj Coffee called for a copter. Lit right in front of my tent goes straight up & then takes off. Well while I was at Div. I saw Col. Brown, he is much p----- off. He is going to the KMC’s (Korean Marine Corps) as liaisons officer, doesn’t like that at all. Thought he would come to the 2nd Div. Is going to go to Europe so I’ll stay back. Can’t see going to Europe so soon in fact can’t see going overseas again under any circumstances.
How about a fast hug around the neck and then let’s have a big breakfast. Sure could use a cup of your coffee and toast---haven’t had any toast in months but have been getting some fresh eggs. Yes, I have an inside track in the galley so get mine cooked almost like I like them. Tate just dropped in so am having a hard time concentrating. He is right along side of me talking. The 1st Marines got 20 cases of whiskey last night (they just got back off the line) and Tate is figuring out how long 120 bottles would last him---3 the first day, 2 the second day and so on. He is always looking at things like that.
Well, Darling, I really got to go now so remember I love you and am counting the days till I can really tell you how I have missed you and love you
Your Bill
How about a fast hug around the neck and then let’s have a big breakfast. Sure could use a cup of your coffee and toast---haven’t had any toast in months but have been getting some fresh eggs. Yes, I have an inside track in the galley so get mine cooked almost like I like them. Tate just dropped in so am having a hard time concentrating. He is right along side of me talking. The 1st Marines got 20 cases of whiskey last night (they just got back off the line) and Tate is figuring out how long 120 bottles would last him---3 the first day, 2 the second day and so on. He is always looking at things like that.
Well, Darling, I really got to go now so remember I love you and am counting the days till I can really tell you how I have missed you and love you
Your Bill
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 96
May 9th, 1951
Dearest Betty,
We have been in a good position for several days and have had good weather. Sure have enjoyed the rest.
Say, I got a special fitness report going in on me for T.Sgt asking to waiver my time in grade. I have to be a S.sgt. two years before I am eligible and I only have 1 year. Well hope I make it sometime. Can use the extra money and as Street said it is a good buffer. He is quite OK, Sugar, does everything I suggest (mostly) but does provoke me. He is so lazy but a good friend.
Well, Darling I’ll close now.
All my love for ever & ever.
Yours truly, Bill
May 9th, 1951
Dearest Betty,
We have been in a good position for several days and have had good weather. Sure have enjoyed the rest.
Say, I got a special fitness report going in on me for T.Sgt asking to waiver my time in grade. I have to be a S.sgt. two years before I am eligible and I only have 1 year. Well hope I make it sometime. Can use the extra money and as Street said it is a good buffer. He is quite OK, Sugar, does everything I suggest (mostly) but does provoke me. He is so lazy but a good friend.
Well, Darling I’ll close now.
All my love for ever & ever.
Yours truly, Bill
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 95
May 6th, 1951
Dearest Betty
We are in a very pretty camping place now with a nice stream just beside our abode and I am at peace with my fellow man. The sun is shining and I love you even if I haven’t had mail for two days and the last letter mentioned Joe so I know he is OK. You said he would stay on the porch with Shirl and also that he was “courting” again so he is bound to be OK.
Are we ever getting good chow for a change. The Army has big trucks with freezers on. Chicken yesterday noon, steak today at noon, more chicken tonight, eggs for breakfast.
I better get a letter off to you today so that you will have one on Mother’s Day which is not too far off. I wrote Mother today also ---one of my rare letters (a nice one too).
I told you Frizelli was rotated didn’t I? I am next on the list if they ever get another StSgt to come out ---therin hints that a large draft on NCO’s are due out soon but don’t get hepped up. I’ll be here just as soon as I can, probably make it August.
Well, Honey this isn’t much of a Mother’s Day letter but will have to do.
I love you, Mother Betty.
Your bill
May 6th, 1951
Dearest Betty
We are in a very pretty camping place now with a nice stream just beside our abode and I am at peace with my fellow man. The sun is shining and I love you even if I haven’t had mail for two days and the last letter mentioned Joe so I know he is OK. You said he would stay on the porch with Shirl and also that he was “courting” again so he is bound to be OK.
(Note: this was before neutering)
Are we ever getting good chow for a change. The Army has big trucks with freezers on. Chicken yesterday noon, steak today at noon, more chicken tonight, eggs for breakfast.
I better get a letter off to you today so that you will have one on Mother’s Day which is not too far off. I wrote Mother today also ---one of my rare letters (a nice one too).
I told you Frizelli was rotated didn’t I? I am next on the list if they ever get another StSgt to come out ---therin hints that a large draft on NCO’s are due out soon but don’t get hepped up. I’ll be here just as soon as I can, probably make it August.
Well, Honey this isn’t much of a Mother’s Day letter but will have to do.
I love you, Mother Betty.
Your bill
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 94
May 5th, 1951
Hi, Toots,
Well it is raining today and of course turned cold. Good thing I bathed yesterday so today I have been reading. Have to paint signs for Maj. Coffee some time this afternoon.
Yes, the stories on the radio are dillers. We hear radio China---they have POW’s on every night from 6:45 to 7:00. You can tell each one is dictated. All rave about the useless killing of women & children and ask your Congressmen to get all troops out of Korea. Well we have lost contact with the “Chinks” or “Laundrymen” as we call them and that ain’t good. We try & know their location but at times thousands of them just drop out of sight then turn up at the darndest places & times.
Well, Sugar better stop now & paint that sign.
May 5th, 1951
Hi, Toots,
Well it is raining today and of course turned cold. Good thing I bathed yesterday so today I have been reading. Have to paint signs for Maj. Coffee some time this afternoon.
Yes, the stories on the radio are dillers. We hear radio China---they have POW’s on every night from 6:45 to 7:00. You can tell each one is dictated. All rave about the useless killing of women & children and ask your Congressmen to get all troops out of Korea. Well we have lost contact with the “Chinks” or “Laundrymen” as we call them and that ain’t good. We try & know their location but at times thousands of them just drop out of sight then turn up at the darndest places & times.
Well, Sugar better stop now & paint that sign.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 93
May 4, 1951
Hi, Toots
News last night sounded good for the Marines. Besides giving us credit for breaking the Chinese break through, they are voting on increasing us to four divisions. May be good and again may not be. Who is to say ---if we have only one division in the field we get all we need---four divisions in the field we get ¼ of what we need and the Lord only knows we do need lots of things. Our guns are about shot, our trucks are almost gone. Jeeps we have to depend on wrecked Army convoys for jeeps and spare parts but as always, we will get by with what we have. Just gripes us to see Army convoys with a driver & one man and a MC convoy with 22 men aboard. Well that is plenty of this. Think I will go to the river for a bath & maybe a swim. Saw a snake this morning. Hope they don’t get chummy. Boy will I ever use that shower in our little bathroom. Our commode will beat hell out of a 55 gal. Barrel with the end cut out, won’t have as good a view but I can stand to be shut in.
Well we are having beautiful weather here now but nothing else much to write about.
All my love
Bill
May 4, 1951
Hi, Toots
News last night sounded good for the Marines. Besides giving us credit for breaking the Chinese break through, they are voting on increasing us to four divisions. May be good and again may not be. Who is to say ---if we have only one division in the field we get all we need---four divisions in the field we get ¼ of what we need and the Lord only knows we do need lots of things. Our guns are about shot, our trucks are almost gone. Jeeps we have to depend on wrecked Army convoys for jeeps and spare parts but as always, we will get by with what we have. Just gripes us to see Army convoys with a driver & one man and a MC convoy with 22 men aboard. Well that is plenty of this. Think I will go to the river for a bath & maybe a swim. Saw a snake this morning. Hope they don’t get chummy. Boy will I ever use that shower in our little bathroom. Our commode will beat hell out of a 55 gal. Barrel with the end cut out, won’t have as good a view but I can stand to be shut in.
Well we are having beautiful weather here now but nothing else much to write about.
All my love
Bill
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 92
May 2, 1951
Dearest Betty,
Another move completed. We are now back in the X Corp. so warm and nice we have turned our tents and stove in but still have sleeping bags. We procured a 17 X 40 ft. tarp today and have stretched it across our truck and out each side so have lots of room with all sides open so we have lots of fresh air etc. It could rain etc but makes a very good home. Also have a nice spring and a small river for bathing. Still sort of cool but effective. Won’t be long before mosquitoes start coming out of course. We can’t have a light at night but it doesn’t get dark till around eight. We do have our radio so will hang onto the little generator. Haven’t had mail call yet, probably won’t have any tonight on account of the move but I’ll get one, maybe two tomorrow. Reckon I can wait for that to happen.
Tate just told me that if everything goes right I should be out of here by June 6. who knows?
Say, Honey, just for fun, how about writing to the AAA and have them plot us a course for a trip just in case we got to Charleston, SC---side trip to P.I. up to Abingdon on to Grand Forks and you pick a return route by someplace we should see. We may be able to take a couple of weeks off and have a little bit of by our self for a change. Who knows, just a thought. I am sure you and I both will be able to figure out why we shouldn’t do that but it could be fun.
Well, Sugar, that finishes all my news for today. By the way this letter was written in two parts my thinking on the first page was this morning. Am anxious to hear if Joe is O.K. or if we “have no” I’ll expect the worst any way.
All my love,
J.R.C.
May 2, 1951
Dearest Betty,
Another move completed. We are now back in the X Corp. so warm and nice we have turned our tents and stove in but still have sleeping bags. We procured a 17 X 40 ft. tarp today and have stretched it across our truck and out each side so have lots of room with all sides open so we have lots of fresh air etc. It could rain etc but makes a very good home. Also have a nice spring and a small river for bathing. Still sort of cool but effective. Won’t be long before mosquitoes start coming out of course. We can’t have a light at night but it doesn’t get dark till around eight. We do have our radio so will hang onto the little generator. Haven’t had mail call yet, probably won’t have any tonight on account of the move but I’ll get one, maybe two tomorrow. Reckon I can wait for that to happen.
Tate just told me that if everything goes right I should be out of here by June 6. who knows?
Say, Honey, just for fun, how about writing to the AAA and have them plot us a course for a trip just in case we got to Charleston, SC---side trip to P.I. up to Abingdon on to Grand Forks and you pick a return route by someplace we should see. We may be able to take a couple of weeks off and have a little bit of by our self for a change. Who knows, just a thought. I am sure you and I both will be able to figure out why we shouldn’t do that but it could be fun.
Well, Sugar, that finishes all my news for today. By the way this letter was written in two parts my thinking on the first page was this morning. Am anxious to hear if Joe is O.K. or if we “have no” I’ll expect the worst any way.
All my love,
J.R.C.
Joe (our dog)was fine and out lived my dad.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 91
May 1st, 1951
Hello, Sugar
Have had a very good day, never lost my temper but once. Frizzeli kicked my box & spilled my coffee so Kim fixed us another one & just as it about got cool enough to drink, John Nester stumbled over my box again & spilled that one. So after expressing myself I took a bath & listened to Bob Hope & G Russell from Camp Pendleton. Had several good laughs. Pretty good news tonight, broke the Red’s May Day attack so hope we don’t have too many casualties and interfere with our rotation plans. Have lots of hopes but am afraid to express them. I would have made this draft if those 30 Staff Rats had of been in before the list was made up. So do hope to make the next one but please don’t get all hepped up about it for as I told you last night you will know I am on my way 30 days before I get home.
We, 1st Marine Division, revert to the X Corp tomorrow still in the 8th Army have been in the IX Corp. Just different sections. We got a Good go for plugging the hole the ROK deserted the other day & for stopping the Red breakthrough. By the way, we got another Pres. Unit Citation, makes four for the 1st Marine Division & three for me but who wants one from H.S.T.---I like mine from F.D.R.
Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1st_Marine_Division_%28United_States%29#Korean_War
Well this is enough for tonight, seen a cartoon today a G.S. in Korean Chinaman to my left---Chinaman to my right & I have to do my own laundry.
Love,
Bill
May 1st, 1951
Hello, Sugar
Have had a very good day, never lost my temper but once. Frizzeli kicked my box & spilled my coffee so Kim fixed us another one & just as it about got cool enough to drink, John Nester stumbled over my box again & spilled that one. So after expressing myself I took a bath & listened to Bob Hope & G Russell from Camp Pendleton. Had several good laughs. Pretty good news tonight, broke the Red’s May Day attack so hope we don’t have too many casualties and interfere with our rotation plans. Have lots of hopes but am afraid to express them. I would have made this draft if those 30 Staff Rats had of been in before the list was made up. So do hope to make the next one but please don’t get all hepped up about it for as I told you last night you will know I am on my way 30 days before I get home.
We, 1st Marine Division, revert to the X Corp tomorrow still in the 8th Army have been in the IX Corp. Just different sections. We got a Good go for plugging the hole the ROK deserted the other day & for stopping the Red breakthrough. By the way, we got another Pres. Unit Citation, makes four for the 1st Marine Division & three for me but who wants one from H.S.T.---I like mine from F.D.R.
Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1st_Marine_Division_%28United_States%29#Korean_War
Beginning in early 1951 the division participated in several United Nations (UN) offensives in east-central Korea. This was followed by defending against the Chinese spring offensive composed of over 500,000 troops. By June 1951 the 1st Marine Division had pushed northward and secured the terrain around the Punchbowl and then settled into a defensive line 11
miles long.[29]
Well this is enough for tonight, seen a cartoon today a G.S. in Korean Chinaman to my left---Chinaman to my right & I have to do my own laundry.
Love,
Bill
Friday, November 13, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 90
April 30, 1951
Hi, Sug
Yes, another letter from my best girl today. Delivered Kim’s to him, he is very proud of his letters and will answer them soon---so he said. That word you asked for led to a lot of arm & hand waving and all I can get out of it is “Korean speak Big Book. You figure it out.
Nothing new around here today, Sugar. Just one of those days we just laid around the tent.
I got my hair cut, made a sea food salad out of canned shrimp, lobster, crab etc that fellows had from boxes sent from home. Not enough by them self but plenty combined. Red pepper & chili sauce
Yes, I am sure I’ll land on the West coast (all do) and Clum & I have talked over getting across country and we think we will hitch hike---whoa Lady not on the road, we will contact Army Navy or Marine Corps air stations seeking a plane to Cherry Point, Washington or some place close to J’Ville. If we can’t we will ride a train much faster and boy will that ever be a long trip. I dread the time wasted from the time we leave here until we get home, but it will seem years it will take about a month to make the trip. Have to stop four days in Japan, get our gear we left, have it inventoried and get more shots. Outfitted, Schooled on what to & do upon arrival in the States. Get leave & orders to duty stations---one Hell of a big run around. Wish they would bring the entire Div. Home at once ah! Well I’ll walk, just to be back with you.
All my love
Bill
April 30, 1951
Hi, Sug
Yes, another letter from my best girl today. Delivered Kim’s to him, he is very proud of his letters and will answer them soon---so he said. That word you asked for led to a lot of arm & hand waving and all I can get out of it is “Korean speak Big Book. You figure it out.
Nothing new around here today, Sugar. Just one of those days we just laid around the tent.
I got my hair cut, made a sea food salad out of canned shrimp, lobster, crab etc that fellows had from boxes sent from home. Not enough by them self but plenty combined. Red pepper & chili sauceYes, I am sure I’ll land on the West coast (all do) and Clum & I have talked over getting across country and we think we will hitch hike---whoa Lady not on the road, we will contact Army Navy or Marine Corps air stations seeking a plane to Cherry Point, Washington or some place close to J’Ville. If we can’t we will ride a train much faster and boy will that ever be a long trip. I dread the time wasted from the time we leave here until we get home, but it will seem years it will take about a month to make the trip. Have to stop four days in Japan, get our gear we left, have it inventoried and get more shots. Outfitted, Schooled on what to & do upon arrival in the States. Get leave & orders to duty stations---one Hell of a big run around. Wish they would bring the entire Div. Home at once ah! Well I’ll walk, just to be back with you.
All my love
Bill
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter #89
April 29, 1951
Hey, You
What gives, I just wrote you a letter and here I am again. Must be love or maybe I am just lonesome, or maybe I am disillusioned with this damned withdrawal. Pretty hard for some of us old Marines to take falling in with the Army tactics. They aren’t are way at all.
Well Street & I put on a batch of brew with Tate’s instructions of course---blackberry ja,, sugar, yeast & water in a 5 gal. Can. Should take tour or five days. Wonder how it will turn out, what voltage? Will let you know when we tap it.
Kim wants a camera very bad, that is why I asked you to price one for me. He has been saving his money to buy one, of course we will have to convert his Won into
dollars. Exchange is up now 6000 Won for 1 $. He gets 40,000 Won a month so let me know what a cheap one costs & we will send you the money for it.
Sure wish I could help you piddle around in the yard in the evenings. How is Joe, you haven’t mentioned him lately. Is he still with you or he got himself run over?
(This is Joe)
Novack showed me some pictures Ginny sent him of his kids. Cut his mother-in-law’s picture off of a family group. Damndest fellow I ever saw. Sure forgot what I was going to say.
The generator stopped so had to do a little repair job on it.
Tell Shirl I’ll write her tomorrow. Meantime I am going to bed, didn’t get much sleep last night. Maybe my Betty will come to see me tonight. Could be , so all my love, Darling. Till next we talk via Mr. Parker & free mail. The Ike I spoke of is Eisenhower. Tended bar with Whitt.
Love, Bill
April 29, 1951
Hey, You
What gives, I just wrote you a letter and here I am again. Must be love or maybe I am just lonesome, or maybe I am disillusioned with this damned withdrawal. Pretty hard for some of us old Marines to take falling in with the Army tactics. They aren’t are way at all.
Well Street & I put on a batch of brew with Tate’s instructions of course---blackberry ja,, sugar, yeast & water in a 5 gal. Can. Should take tour or five days. Wonder how it will turn out, what voltage? Will let you know when we tap it.
Kim wants a camera very bad, that is why I asked you to price one for me. He has been saving his money to buy one, of course we will have to convert his Won into dollars. Exchange is up now 6000 Won for 1 $. He gets 40,000 Won a month so let me know what a cheap one costs & we will send you the money for it.
Sure wish I could help you piddle around in the yard in the evenings. How is Joe, you haven’t mentioned him lately. Is he still with you or he got himself run over?
(This is Joe)Novack showed me some pictures Ginny sent him of his kids. Cut his mother-in-law’s picture off of a family group. Damndest fellow I ever saw. Sure forgot what I was going to say.
The generator stopped so had to do a little repair job on it.
Tell Shirl I’ll write her tomorrow. Meantime I am going to bed, didn’t get much sleep last night. Maybe my Betty will come to see me tonight. Could be , so all my love, Darling. Till next we talk via Mr. Parker & free mail. The Ike I spoke of is Eisenhower. Tended bar with Whitt.
Love, Bill
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 88
April 29, 1951
Hi, Toots
Everything OK with you? Just had a nice bath & Shave in a clear mountain stream. Colder than Hell but good cause sho needed a bath.
Jimmy brought us some ammunition up yesterday and had to spend the night. Sure took a dim view of living any place near any shooting. Of course we ribbed him quite a bit. Spent a very restless night, went back to Service Btry. This morning. Hope we drop back to the river soon. They are striating the lines up and the Marines are way ahead so will surely have to fall back on line with the Army. Good mountain road all the way so should be no strain.
The weather is getting hot here now, wonder what it will be like in another month? But I still like heat better than cold.
Lots of mail came in today but hasn’t been put out yet. I probably should wait & see if I have any questions to answer when I get mine by golly. Think I will It’s chow time any way. Kim’s new words for “Chow Hound” is “mess Hall dog”. I’ll be loving you, Suger till I resume this writing.
Well, Sugar I’ll mail this now. Wish I could really be with you in some of those good dreams you have had. Maybe won’t be too long. My plans for my thirty day leave: Loving you, eating salads, drinking milk, seeing picture shows, & fixing up around the house.
Yours truly, Bill
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 87
April 27, 1951
Dearest Betty,
Not so good news today. We can hold but the Army on our left flank (Seoul) are dropping back so suppose we will have to follow. I hope we don’t reuse that old B.S. about falling back to prepared positions for we have none. I can only say one thing, The China boys paid dearly when they hit the 1st Marine Division. I have never seen such an intrusive barrage --- many many rounds and the Chinese dead are up into the thousands and still they keep coming regardless of loss. I saw them four abreast on a road with artillery bursting over their heads & in them ---they just walked over the fallen and kept coming.
Well, Honey haven’t seen any mail for a day or so, just wanted you to know I am O.K. and will keep that way cause I want to get back to you and the sooner the better.
All my love
Bill
April 27, 1951
Dearest Betty,
Not so good news today. We can hold but the Army on our left flank (Seoul) are dropping back so suppose we will have to follow. I hope we don’t reuse that old B.S. about falling back to prepared positions for we have none. I can only say one thing, The China boys paid dearly when they hit the 1st Marine Division. I have never seen such an intrusive barrage --- many many rounds and the Chinese dead are up into the thousands and still they keep coming regardless of loss. I saw them four abreast on a road with artillery bursting over their heads & in them ---they just walked over the fallen and kept coming.
Well, Honey haven’t seen any mail for a day or so, just wanted you to know I am O.K. and will keep that way cause I want to get back to you and the sooner the better.
All my love
Bill
Monday, November 9, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 85
April 25, 1951
Good Morning, Sugar,
Well we have had two nights and one very hectic day. The gap in the line that 5000 U.S. Soldiers & Korean troops ran from left us wide open. The 1st Marine Reg. Tried to stop the Chinks and did a damned good job of it but they got flanked so the 7th Reg. Extended and we layed down a barrage of Artillery that was out of this world. About six yesterday morning we came under small arms fire from a hill just in front of our guns. In the mean time we picked up what was left of the Army’s 105 and used them as point blank firing. Well, that kept up till good day light when the Air strikes commenced. They Napalmed Hell out of that hill and finally claimed it. All of our F.O. forward observers were cut off and one was out of radio connection but found a field phone that was working so directed fire from behind the Chink’s lines all day. Was pulled out by a counter attack from the 5th Btn.yesterday afternoon. We pulled back across the river last night and have been firing almost steady ever since. Today things seem lots quieter. Haven’t heard the radio for two nights. Hope we can run the generator tonight (radio won’t work in the day time).
Well that about covers my side of the world. Rec. a letter from you with more
"McA." News. Every one seems pretty much put out & I agree, with Winchell. The darned English will whip us yet. Wouldn’t be surprised to see them join with Russia before this thing is over.
Saw Jimmy last night. He was up forward with some injuries to be treated but went back to service soon after. He takes a dim view of this war.
Well, loads of love, Darling till next time. Sure wish I were with you. Seems ages and ages since I last saw you.
Your Bill
Note:
I found this link:
http://www.army.mil/features/KoreanWar/textversion.html
April 11, 1951
President Truman relieves Gen. MacArthur as CINCFEC /CINCUNC after MacArthur had publicly and repeatedly questioned President Truman’s strategy for the war.
April 22-29, 1951 & May 16-20, 1951
Chinese Spring Offensives. After forcing the outnumbered Eighth Army to make tactical withdrawals, Chinese and North Korean units in April and May are decimated by superior UN firepower. This is the last attempt by either side to win the war by inflicting a crushing battlefield defeat on the enemy’s army.
April 25, 1951
Good Morning, Sugar,
Well we have had two nights and one very hectic day. The gap in the line that 5000 U.S. Soldiers & Korean troops ran from left us wide open. The 1st Marine Reg. Tried to stop the Chinks and did a damned good job of it but they got flanked so the 7th Reg. Extended and we layed down a barrage of Artillery that was out of this world. About six yesterday morning we came under small arms fire from a hill just in front of our guns. In the mean time we picked up what was left of the Army’s 105 and used them as point blank firing. Well, that kept up till good day light when the Air strikes commenced. They Napalmed Hell out of that hill and finally claimed it. All of our F.O. forward observers were cut off and one was out of radio connection but found a field phone that was working so directed fire from behind the Chink’s lines all day. Was pulled out by a counter attack from the 5th Btn.yesterday afternoon. We pulled back across the river last night and have been firing almost steady ever since. Today things seem lots quieter. Haven’t heard the radio for two nights. Hope we can run the generator tonight (radio won’t work in the day time).
Well that about covers my side of the world. Rec. a letter from you with more
"McA." News. Every one seems pretty much put out & I agree, with Winchell. The darned English will whip us yet. Wouldn’t be surprised to see them join with Russia before this thing is over.
Saw Jimmy last night. He was up forward with some injuries to be treated but went back to service soon after. He takes a dim view of this war.
Well, loads of love, Darling till next time. Sure wish I were with you. Seems ages and ages since I last saw you.
Your Bill
Note:
I found this link:
http://www.army.mil/features/KoreanWar/textversion.html
April 11, 1951
President Truman relieves Gen. MacArthur as CINCFEC /CINCUNC after MacArthur had publicly and repeatedly questioned President Truman’s strategy for the war.
April 22-29, 1951 & May 16-20, 1951
Chinese Spring Offensives. After forcing the outnumbered Eighth Army to make tactical withdrawals, Chinese and North Korean units in April and May are decimated by superior UN firepower. This is the last attempt by either side to win the war by inflicting a crushing battlefield defeat on the enemy’s army.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 85
April 23, 1951
Good Morning, Sugar,
I better write to you this morning may not be able to write again for a day or so. We did move yesterday and expect to move again tomorrow. Last night I saw, with my own eyes something I have heard of many times but didn’t quite believe. Americans and Koreans in full flight actually running away from the enemy. In fact they didn’t stop until they got back as far as our Mike Btry. The Koreans lost or left all their trucks & guns. The Army lost some self propelled 105’s. Our guns and some Army 8mm blasted all morning destroying what they had left. The 1st & 5th Reg. Was in reserve and were hurried up front to block the break through. Everything is under control now. The R.O.K.’s apparently were relieved for they have been going back steady all day. Lots of our Air Planes flying around so suppose everything is OK. I hope it is the Chink’s spring offensive. Be glad to get it over with. We are in a good place now. Our first in a long time---a valley with good road. T. Sgt. Is going home from our section on rotation. I was supposed to have been on the list but the Maj. Said I was instrumental and that we are short S. Sgts. In the Btn. So reckon I’ll be home in August. Any way that is the dope now but if a bunch of S-Rats come out and some of these Sgt. Are rated 7, may get in sooner---one can never tell.
Well I’ll close now
All my love,
Bill
April 23, 1951
Good Morning, Sugar,
I better write to you this morning may not be able to write again for a day or so. We did move yesterday and expect to move again tomorrow. Last night I saw, with my own eyes something I have heard of many times but didn’t quite believe. Americans and Koreans in full flight actually running away from the enemy. In fact they didn’t stop until they got back as far as our Mike Btry. The Koreans lost or left all their trucks & guns. The Army lost some self propelled 105’s. Our guns and some Army 8mm blasted all morning destroying what they had left. The 1st & 5th Reg. Was in reserve and were hurried up front to block the break through. Everything is under control now. The R.O.K.’s apparently were relieved for they have been going back steady all day. Lots of our Air Planes flying around so suppose everything is OK. I hope it is the Chink’s spring offensive. Be glad to get it over with. We are in a good place now. Our first in a long time---a valley with good road. T. Sgt. Is going home from our section on rotation. I was supposed to have been on the list but the Maj. Said I was instrumental and that we are short S. Sgts. In the Btn. So reckon I’ll be home in August. Any way that is the dope now but if a bunch of S-Rats come out and some of these Sgt. Are rated 7, may get in sooner---one can never tell.
Well I’ll close now
All my love,
Bill
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 84
April 20. 1951
Hey, Gal,
No mail today. Division moved up so recken we will be going up again. A big draft formed for rotation. 11th got 160 men but still no staff recken. They think we can stay forever. Staff NCO’s & officers are taking a beating on this deal. Ah! Well reckon I’ll get home before too long.
It has turned cold again after several days of warm weather but we had a hard rain & has been cold ever since.
Oh well, Sugar Pie no news and nothing but camp life so may as well close now and read a bit then it will be bed time and I may dream of my one and only sweetheart so by by till next time, Sugar.
All my love,
Bill
Friday, November 6, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 83
April 18, 1951
Greetings, Sugar
Did I tell you that Peterson is cooking down at 1st Ordinance Bn? I see him quite often and today I passed the 1st Marines moving up and Lee yelled at me. Didn’t have time to talk to him just a glimpse & a yell.
Just heard the news, sounds like N. Korea are sending out Pease terms. Hope they move out. I have just about had enough of this. Almost a year now.
Well, Sug I have to go to bed now. I want to bathe and have Kim boil my clothes out tonight. I have to go back to ord tomorrow. Say, that anti tank grenade was the first one captured so had to take it and my report in to Div. Intelligence.
Well night night Sugar
Your bill
April 18, 1951
Greetings, Sugar
Did I tell you that Peterson is cooking down at 1st Ordinance Bn? I see him quite often and today I passed the 1st Marines moving up and Lee yelled at me. Didn’t have time to talk to him just a glimpse & a yell.
Just heard the news, sounds like N. Korea are sending out Pease terms. Hope they move out. I have just about had enough of this. Almost a year now.
Well, Sug I have to go to bed now. I want to bathe and have Kim boil my clothes out tonight. I have to go back to ord tomorrow. Say, that anti tank grenade was the first one captured so had to take it and my report in to Div. Intelligence.
Well night night Sugar
Your bill
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 82
April 17, 1951
Dearest Betty
Two letters from you today, 5th & 6th. One from you said Pete wasn’t home because maybe her mother was worse. Pete didn’t feel like driving home after the funeral so I suppose she is dead dead dead. I just had to got up to Maj. Coffee and pick up a new Russian made anti tank grenade. I’ll have to take it all apart tonight & see what makes it tick so I can write a report on it & probably hold school. I get a kick out of doing things like that for when I start everyone finds some excuse to go someplace away from the tent. They won’t admit they are scared, they just dribble out and first thing I know I am alone and that is best for I can think & study best when no one is around to ask questions. Big fires around us tonight someone has set the hills on fire. Starting to get warmer here now, even see a few mosquitoes now & then. Probably be bad before long .
Well, the Stg. Maj. Said tonight not to expect to go home before August. Said a big draft of NCO’s were due out here in July. Seems so long when a set time is given but I can’t see how they can just relieve all S.NCO’s at one time like that.You asked about Tate, he is just like us---delay delay delay, so we still have him with us.
Well, Sugar, if things don’t get any rougher than it is now, I’ll survive and hope till August comes around fast.
All my love,
Bill
April 17, 1951
Dearest Betty
Two letters from you today, 5th & 6th. One from you said Pete wasn’t home because maybe her mother was worse. Pete didn’t feel like driving home after the funeral so I suppose she is dead dead dead. I just had to got up to Maj. Coffee and pick up a new Russian made anti tank grenade. I’ll have to take it all apart tonight & see what makes it tick so I can write a report on it & probably hold school. I get a kick out of doing things like that for when I start everyone finds some excuse to go someplace away from the tent. They won’t admit they are scared, they just dribble out and first thing I know I am alone and that is best for I can think & study best when no one is around to ask questions. Big fires around us tonight someone has set the hills on fire. Starting to get warmer here now, even see a few mosquitoes now & then. Probably be bad before long .
Well, the Stg. Maj. Said tonight not to expect to go home before August. Said a big draft of NCO’s were due out here in July. Seems so long when a set time is given but I can’t see how they can just relieve all S.NCO’s at one time like that.You asked about Tate, he is just like us---delay delay delay, so we still have him with us.
Well, Sugar, if things don’t get any rougher than it is now, I’ll survive and hope till August comes around fast.
All my love,
Bill
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 81
April 16, 1951
Dearest Betty
Well the “Old Man” is in a much better mood tonight. Everything is going smooth so I am going smooth. I sort of worked off part of my nerves. Last night Scheckler slapped Kim after teasing him for a long time. Kim got the best of him as usual and Scheclker got all peed off & slapped him. Well it flew all over me so I sort of pushed him & broke his nose. We are on speaking terms again after he apologized to Kim and me to him. Was good for me he was getting me damn well.
We are digging in for a few weeks stay here. We are straddling the 38th and doing lots of work on the guns. I hear there are a lot of replacements leaving the States today. Hope my replacement is aboard. Hardly expect to leave before Tate does. He sure hangs on to what he wants and we are what he wants.
It makes me so mad thinking of all the Marines that still have a home to stay in & they seem never to have to leave. Has Rogers ever been transferred or did he “break another leg”?
Jimmy sure is taking this life hard, takes long walks keeps to himself a lot, seems sort of lost. Wants to revert back and go out but can’t. Feel sorry for him at times.
Well Lots of love to you Sweetheart
Bill
April 16, 1951
Dearest Betty
Well the “Old Man” is in a much better mood tonight. Everything is going smooth so I am going smooth. I sort of worked off part of my nerves. Last night Scheckler slapped Kim after teasing him for a long time. Kim got the best of him as usual and Scheclker got all peed off & slapped him. Well it flew all over me so I sort of pushed him & broke his nose. We are on speaking terms again after he apologized to Kim and me to him. Was good for me he was getting me damn well.
We are digging in for a few weeks stay here. We are straddling the 38th and doing lots of work on the guns. I hear there are a lot of replacements leaving the States today. Hope my replacement is aboard. Hardly expect to leave before Tate does. He sure hangs on to what he wants and we are what he wants.
It makes me so mad thinking of all the Marines that still have a home to stay in & they seem never to have to leave. Has Rogers ever been transferred or did he “break another leg”?
Jimmy sure is taking this life hard, takes long walks keeps to himself a lot, seems sort of lost. Wants to revert back and go out but can’t. Feel sorry for him at times.
Well Lots of love to you Sweetheart
Bill
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 80
April 15, 1951
Hi, my Darling Girls,
A beautiful day, got all finished with the mines for this area. Did some work on a couple of guns, had one free Beer Blatz tonight. No mail as yet. Started to read a mystery story, but couldn’t settle down to it so thought maybe I’d try a letter to you and see how I make out but I’ll be damned if there isn’t so much confusion in the tent, I can hardly write sometimes. These people get on my nerves so much I could scream. Their little idiotic laughter “he he he” just goes all over me. One man in particular every thing he does is better than any one else and after each silly utterance “he he he” I’ll scream if he don’t stop. Don’t worry about me tonight, Sugar just nervous. Suppose I was most tense all day but this Joker gets me
Frizelli & I took Kim to a KMC Korean Marine Corps Camp today & told him we were going to enlist him (just wanted him to talk to some of his own people) We went over to the 2nd Btry. When we came back---couldn’t find Kim anywhere--- came on home & by Gosh he was already here and had coffee made. Made quite a joke out of it.
Well, Darling that is all I am going up & talk to Novack & on to Tate for a while, then to bed. I love you both, Darling so much.
Your Bill.
April 15, 1951
Hi, my Darling Girls,
A beautiful day, got all finished with the mines for this area. Did some work on a couple of guns, had one free Beer Blatz tonight. No mail as yet. Started to read a mystery story, but couldn’t settle down to it so thought maybe I’d try a letter to you and see how I make out but I’ll be damned if there isn’t so much confusion in the tent, I can hardly write sometimes. These people get on my nerves so much I could scream. Their little idiotic laughter “he he he” just goes all over me. One man in particular every thing he does is better than any one else and after each silly utterance “he he he” I’ll scream if he don’t stop. Don’t worry about me tonight, Sugar just nervous. Suppose I was most tense all day but this Joker gets me
Frizelli & I took Kim to a KMC Korean Marine Corps Camp today & told him we were going to enlist him (just wanted him to talk to some of his own people) We went over to the 2nd Btry. When we came back---couldn’t find Kim anywhere--- came on home & by Gosh he was already here and had coffee made. Made quite a joke out of it.
Well, Darling that is all I am going up & talk to Novack & on to Tate for a while, then to bed. I love you both, Darling so much.
Your Bill.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 78
April 17, 1951
Hi, Sugar,
Well, I speck I owe you a letter or so. Didn’t write yesterday or the day before been pretty busy. We moved up above the 38th Parallel and set right up in a mine field so I have been cleaning the area and most through now.So we should start moving again.
I gave Jimmy the message said he was getting mail now so he had all the dope. John Nester started home on an emergency leave got as far as Masan and it was cancelled by his sister. By the way if anything ever happens to any of you or to Mother you will have to have me notified by b by the Red Cross. They are the only ones that can get through officially. So we have John back in the Ord. Sec. Again, We don’t get much news here. The Chinks “Jam” all the news casts so it comes in at unexpected times. Sign on the road near here “If you wanta get back dispense with Harry, If you don’t believe me ask poor old Mack Chows chows chows."
Silly eh?
Must close now
Your Bill
April 17, 1951
Hi, Sugar,
Well, I speck I owe you a letter or so. Didn’t write yesterday or the day before been pretty busy. We moved up above the 38th Parallel and set right up in a mine field so I have been cleaning the area and most through now.So we should start moving again.
I gave Jimmy the message said he was getting mail now so he had all the dope. John Nester started home on an emergency leave got as far as Masan and it was cancelled by his sister. By the way if anything ever happens to any of you or to Mother you will have to have me notified by b by the Red Cross. They are the only ones that can get through officially. So we have John back in the Ord. Sec. Again, We don’t get much news here. The Chinks “Jam” all the news casts so it comes in at unexpected times. Sign on the road near here “If you wanta get back dispense with Harry, If you don’t believe me ask poor old Mack Chows chows chows."
Silly eh?
Must close now
Your Bill
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Dearest Betty
Letter # 78
April 11, 1951
Hello Sugar
What do you think about Truman relieving Japan’s Emperor? Sort of glad he did, the old boy’s been out here too long. I told you that Ridgeway was my man quite a while ago didn’t I?
Kim received Shirl’s letter and has spent all day writing her. Quite a job for he has to refer to his Korean/English dictionary for each word. He prints well. The letter he wrote to you was written by one of his buddies in another Btry. A Korean interpreter. Was quite a letter. I want to be sure and see this one too.
Haven’t seen Jimmy in quite a while and no one else has as far as that goes. We are still perched on the side of a mountain and don’t get about much any more. Had a pt. Of 190 Alkie last night---cut it with a qt of fruit juice just a cup apiece. Listened to the radio, griping, writing and oh! Yes I read a book The Great Gatsby. Wasn’t good & wasn’t bad.
Well, Honey, I want to be home so bad to be with you and our home. I have so much to do and always have so little time to do it.
Till I see you in my dreams, Dear.
Good Night,
Bill
April 11, 1951
Hello Sugar
What do you think about Truman relieving Japan’s Emperor? Sort of glad he did, the old boy’s been out here too long. I told you that Ridgeway was my man quite a while ago didn’t I?
Kim received Shirl’s letter and has spent all day writing her. Quite a job for he has to refer to his Korean/English dictionary for each word. He prints well. The letter he wrote to you was written by one of his buddies in another Btry. A Korean interpreter. Was quite a letter. I want to be sure and see this one too.
Haven’t seen Jimmy in quite a while and no one else has as far as that goes. We are still perched on the side of a mountain and don’t get about much any more. Had a pt. Of 190 Alkie last night---cut it with a qt of fruit juice just a cup apiece. Listened to the radio, griping, writing and oh! Yes I read a book The Great Gatsby. Wasn’t good & wasn’t bad.
Well, Honey, I want to be home so bad to be with you and our home. I have so much to do and always have so little time to do it.
Till I see you in my dreams, Dear.
Good Night,
Bill
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