Introductions by Debra
This is a true, first-hand account of the innermost thoughts of Art to his beloved Lois, written while serving our country as a United States Marine during World War II. My name is Debra and I am sharing the gifts of Art’s Love Letters. Art was my grandfather and Lois was my grandmother. It was 1944 and they were 21 years old when the letters began.
The Letter Transcript
Wednesday, June 21, 1944
My Darling Lois,
Just finished writing to your Mother, hope it is satisfactory as I did try to make it that way. Thanked her and Father for the wonderful weekend they showed me.
Wonder of wonders received two letters from you today. Sure didn’t expect any so soon but were darn welcome.
Well I’ll answer your questions first. Today I talked with my “Gunner” about a weekend pass. Then I really got it. Some how or other he knew I was gone but didn’t say anything. He is a real guy and I have no kicks about him. But he told me after all the time off I had, it would be a good idea if yours truly would start buckling down to a little work. And he thought it would be nice if he seen me on the base this weekend. So that sort of puts a change on things for this one. He did say though I’d probably get to see you the following weekend. You see he knows about you too as I told him awhile back. He sort of smiles when ever I ask to go to Washington. Honey, I’ll miss you terribly this weekend but after those four days of paradise it will hold me over for a little while. The Gunner also told me we might be here for a little while longer. Good news huh?
My Mother’s name is Louise Bornemann. Am writing to my sister today and having the engagement put in the papers so as soon as I get one will send it your way, Darling. You do the same, huh?
Sorry I didn’t call Darling, the first day. Simply wrote you a letter and tumbled in the sack.
Yes, Honey, I did pick up my things at the Service club but remembered after I hit the station. My buddy asked me where the other bag was. Good thing the club isn’t far from the station. I need a woman to take care of me. It looks that way doesn’t it.
Excuse the way the writing is travelling up the page, Lois, as I’m writing this while lying down. Worked this morning teaching classes and am still washing clothes. Have a bucket full now soaking. Have so many now that I hate to think of it. Haven’t told you I don’t think, but my luggage came in from Norfolk this morning. Sure am tickled happy with the world now.
Really, Lois, I’ve never been so happy in my life. At home people asked me if I ever smiled but since knowing you life has become wonderful. Seems like everything is going my way. Love sure is grand!
I wish you would write to my sister, Lois, but hold off till I hear from home. Should be hearing tomorrow or the next day. I’ll send the address up tomorrow, okay?
Had a nice surprise today. My buddies all paid me back what they owed me. The Gunner gave a talk awhile back saying none of us should borrow from each other. Instead we are going to have a fund, pitching in a little each month and then when ever one of us gets short we can borrow from the fund.
So everybody liked the ring? Glad to hear it Darling for you deserve nothing but the best. I’d still like to know what you’d like for your birthday. Give me a little time to get it then as its impossible to buy a darn thing down here.
Lois, there is still something I’d like to know, pertaining to our talks. May I ask it is or is it forbidden?
Now that I have my camera will take some pictures this weekend and I’ll bring them up with me. Hope our pictures come real soon. Promised all the fellows I’ll show them the prettiest girl in the world.
Time to close, Darling, must continue with my washing. Wonderful wife I’d make for some girl. Expect a letter tomorrow. It gives me something to look forward to. Bye Darling.
With Love Ever Yours,
Art
P.S. I love your kisses.
Questions, Conclusions and Commentary
Commentary: I have just two thoughts after reading today’s letter. The first is about the laundry. I am guessing Art couldn’t just pop into the laundry room on base set up with commercial laundry equipment based on the fact he states his laundry is sitting in a bucket. I know my grandfather is not one to shy away from hard work but no wonder he hates the task of laundry so much if he has to use an old fashioned wash bucket.
My second reflection is Art stating that he barely smiled when he was at home. I believe that. Art didn’t have an easy life at all. I have no doubt that Lois was a fresh breathe of heavenly air that Art seems to convey she is.
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The Calling 