Thursday

Dec. 7, 1944

My dearest wife:

Today, as you know is the end of our third year of war. At this time three years ago, I was at home enjoying a nice weekend, it was on a Sunday-how well I remember. I only hope I don’t have to put in another three years. Today, also is 3 ½ years of army for me. I know one thing, I will have another hard march before I am out. I hate to think of it, but if it has to be it has to be.

I am still waiting for that package that you sent Monday. Every morning and afternoon I am after the mail clerk to see if a package came for me, but no such luck just yet. Maybe tomorrow. I hope it wasn’t lost on the way, or maybe the horses went lame. By the way honey that money I sent you is for your Christmas present and whatever you have to get. I didn’t know what you wanted, and I don’t have the time to look around for anything. Maybe you can pick up a few sweaters and skirts. It’s all up to you. Did you ever get your Christmas cards together yet? I wanted to mention it to you before, but I always forgot.

Maggie, I have the information you want in case I won’t be here when the baby comes (which may happen) I enclosed in a form to fill out. You fill out the other copies, keep the one marked “your copy” and send the other two copies to the address in the back of your copy marked in pencil, also send a copy of the birth certificate and before you know it you will be getting your check. You may have some questions on it, but it really isn’t so difficult to figure out. In that section II it gives the date of birth and the name of the baby.

I guess that covers everything for tonight honey, except I love you very much.

Goodnight, Maggie,

All my love,

Pres.

Be seeing you-soon