Tag: usmarines

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

Friday, May 5, 1944

My Dearest Lois,

Your honey is feeling just taps this evening. Two letters from you today, really Honey, the pick-up those letters have. Come in from physical training dog tired but when a letter from you arrives that tired feeling simply disappears. All smiles until the sandman calls.

Haven’t written for the past few nights and am sorry Darling but it really was impossible. Had so much work to cover and because one of the nights yours truly fell asleep while studying. Had my book open studying, then my mind wandered to you and next thing I know somebody was awakening me up to go to bed.

Think I’ll start another letter Sunday afternoon. Quite an interesting letter by the way.

Darling, from the sound of your letters, I don’t think you want to be married so soon. Maybe your being the wise of the two of us. I’m so very sure Dearest, that your the one and only and I’d give anything to have you as my own. Lois if you want to be engaged for awhile in order to give you more time to know me better I’m willing, have to be I guess. We’ll be together in Washington quite some time when I get back there so things will work out and besides we can talk about us better when we’re together again. Wish I was on my way now but it won’t be long now.

You bet, Honey, when I do get there we’ll go down and meet your folks. Hope I pass the test!

The Sunday letter cost me quite a mailing but I loved it. You see, Lois, when I read your letters I usually climb up on my bunk and read it. When I tore the letter open didn’t notice the kisses on the back sides. Then I was reading the first page when the boys caught side of the back side. Practically was mobbed by the fellows trying to take the letter away. Finally had to compromise by showing them the back side. Was my face red! Gee “tanks”, Honey, sure was one swell letter.

One of the two letters that came today had a picture of you in it. Well, just what I needed to send home but it’s going to be coming right back as I need it. Have to have that pretty little face of yours in my wallet. Thanks, my Sweet, hope I can send you some very soon. A picture from home should be here tomorrow or the next day. Took a picture today with my camera right after P.T. in my trunks. Will take some more for sure Sunday.

Glad to hear you can stand my letters Lois. And what may I ask is wrong with your letters? Darn it, Honey, I love each and every one of them so don’t let me hear you say one more word about them.

Darling, I’ll be in the States for awhile yet as I only came back in January. And besides we will be on the east coast for some time. We are going to practice instructing for awhile first.

Haven’t any set plans Lois, the first and only thing I’m thinking about is getting back to Washington. After that, well, we can plan together.

Hope I get back in time to see that play of yours at work. Bet I’d get quite a kick out of seeing you on stage. When is it going to take place?

So you took a day off. Don’t blame you, Honey, the monotony of your job must be hard. From your letters don’t think you like the job.

The new department sounds pretty good. All those pillows, him should be nice and comfortable. Have to try it out and what say? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you were fixing up our home, gosh, that would be something. You’d make a perfect wife I know Lois. Maybe I make the grade yet, huh?

You had me wrong on that bar situation Honey. I was buying for the fellows, so help me. I’ve been a “good boy” since leaving Norfolk, and feel so much the better for it. No little thanks to you. That kiss in the last letter was perfect even had to try it. If it only were you Lois!

Field day this evening. Sweep, clean the walls, windows, etc. Have to hurry this letter to a close as my presence has been asked for. No nice way either but then I should give a darn.

Say hello to the girls and here’ s hoping Alice will be home soon.

Bye, Darling, will be writing again tomorrow night. Your Honey thinks about you always.

With All My Love,
Art XXX

Questions, Conclusions and Commentary

Question 1: Art continues to mention Alice. As stated previously, Art is stationed in a fake camouflaged city known as Wonderland. At the end of several of his letters, he mentions Alice. Apparently Alice is not doing so well and has been gone awhile. I would like to know who this Alice is that Lois writes about and that Art continues to provide supportive loving thoughts of. I remain hopeful that I will be able to connect the dots in future letters.

Conclusion: It sound as if Lois is dealing with feelings of doubt about marrying Art. I can infer from the letter reading that she has two concerns. The first is that Art might have given up his promise to stay away from “the stuff” alcohol. He corrects her on this and reassures her only bought the fellows beers. I recall in the previous letter he owed the boys beers on account of losing the bet on the engagement because she accepted. Second, it appears Lois also was plagued with feelings about doubt about Art being shipped off overseas. Art has the answer to alleviate all of her worries. I admire him for not being disappointed upon hearing this and still remaining hopeful.

To receive alerts of future letters, please Subscribe to my Blog here.

To watch a video of today’s letter, visit the YouTube video below. Please SUBSCRIBE!

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

Monday, May 1, 1944

Dearest Lois,

Pardon the paper, borrowed stuff you know. Be able to get some stationary tomorrow as wonder of wonders was paid today. Check came in from Norfolk for $150. Sure was a welcome sight, almost ready to raise the distress signal.

Honey, last night was laying in the sack awhile thinking about you and me. A thought came to me about the engagement ring. Look Honey, I don’t know much about rings and was wondering whether or not you would care to pick it out. If you picked it out I’d know for sure you would be happy with it. That’s all that matters, Darling, whether you’d be happy with the ring. What made me think of that was remembering some of my sister’s experience. You’ll let me know in the next letter, huh?

Two letters from you today, sure am getting mail so often from you. Think your spoiling me, Honey, but I love it. Now if letters from you don’t come I will be terribly lost. See what a situation you’ve got me into now?

That was quite a night at the canteen sounded like a lot of fun. Wish I could have been there. You had better have some of that chicken, southern style, when I get back. Every time you write you tell me about those wonderful meals you cooked and here I am way out here.

Oh, Honey, I only wish you could know what’s going around me. Almost impossible to write. The boys are raising the roof around me. Trying to stop me from writing and almost succeeding. My belly is so sore from laughing can hardly move. Just finished a laughing jag, thought I’d never stop.

May 2, 1944

Sorry, Darling, that I couldn’t finish up the letter last night but the lights went out when the fellows finally calmed down. The enclosed paper is from my sister so you can really believe I wasn’t just kidding.

Think I’d better answer some of those questions in your typed letter. Even thought I prefer written letters, Lois, anything from you is so very welcome. In fact missed receiving a letter from you today. Maybe tomorrow I hope hope.

Yes, Darling, am positive that I’ll be back in Norfolk. And here is some pretty good news. I’ll be leaving here a week sooner that I thought. The fellows I’ll be with are two weeks ahead of me and they are leaving for Norfolk next Tuesday. In order that I catch up with them sooner they are doubling two weeks into one for me. That means I’ll be leaving a lot sooner.

As for as the course is concerned it is B-25 bombers. Will be more or less be an instructor about that plane when I finish this course. My exams for the first week came out on top which pleased me to no end. Anything to keep ahead of my swabby buddies.

Now that I’m leaving so much sooner beginning to think about Kelorama Rd. Hardly can wait until I walk down those stairs to your apartment. Better get that door open in a hurry too, Honey, or there just won’t be any door. And have a big kiss ready cause I’m really going to be coming in on the beam. Started to get excited already, better I should calm down for a while yet.

Anything new around the home Lois? Alice must be back with you girls. Hope she is okay by now. Say hello for me, Honey.

How are you these days, my “Little One”? Still glowing with that wonderful personality I bet.

Say, am I going to get some snapshots of you? Now I really regret not having taken some pics while in Washington. That will be one of the the things we do on the first Sunday, okay?

Had better save something for tomorrow night, Darling, so will close. Night for now.

All My Love,
Art

P.S. Want some more kisses, no more errors on the typewriter.

Transcript of Enclosed Page of Letter From Art’s Sister

Before I forget, I will send Pastor your address. Also he came for yours and Bob’s picture so I had a small one made of your big ones and he was very happy to get it. They wanted it for the church picture.

From the way you have written about that girlfriend of yours well I can say right now, she is tops. I got a very good description of her from the letter and feel as if I know her. You said it, you don’t find such nice girls these days. I’m so glad for you Art, because you really missed a good companion back home here. There never was a girl back here I could see you going with and I mean it. I guess it is because I think so much of you.

I suppose I need not ask how you enjoyed the cherry blossoms because you already mentioned it was very romantic.

Arthur I’m enclosing a letter from Paul Abrams who sent me a letter and wanted me to forward it to you. I’ve been holding it until I got your address. I also wrote him a letter explaining the situation, so when he should write he….

Questions, Conclusions and Commentary

Question: What does southern style fried chicken taste like? I shall add that to my bucket list to try to find that when I go visit Kelorama Rd in Washington DC.

Conclusion: Wow! Art must be really intelligent! Here I thought he was learning to help build the planes and he is actually going to be the instructor on how to build them. Too boot! He is being pushed to do twice the amount of workload as those ahead of him and they apparently believe he is made of what it takes to do so! Kudos Art!!!

• To Listen to video recordings of the letters being read, please visit my YouTube page here>>>> Debra Worden. When you get there, please SUBSCRIBE to the page.

• To Read transcripts of the video recordings as they are posted, please Subscribe to my Blog here.

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.

Although it has been a week since I read Letter #6, Letter #7 was written the very next day. In the last letter, Art had been in the barracks all alone with his thoughts and was very tired. He planned to go to sleep dreaming of her as he always did and sleep until noon.

The Letter Transcript

Sunday, April 30, 1944

Darling,

I did exactly what I said in yesterday’s letter. Stayed in the sack till twelve, finally came to and realized what time it was. Barely made chow but that sleep was just what the doctor ordered. Feel really good this afternoon.

Well, taking pictures this day has been called off on account of rain. Terrible day today, cold and a drizzly rain. Writing to you with part of my body wrapped around the stove. One half of me warm the other half cold. You know it never rains in California, the people call it liquid sunshine.

Mail from house finally has come. One was from my Sis. Told her all about you and she really thinks I have it bad. Sis says you must be one grand girl the way I write. Wish I could send them your picture but that is out as I’d be completely lost without it. Just have to be satisfied with the description I gave of you. Folks never did like the other two girls I went with back home and now after knowing you, Honey, I don’t see what I saw in them either. Mother says as long as I’m sure, swell.

Never was sure of anything in my life before. Love is something hard to define, but when you have it you just know. The true test of love is when two persons, like ourselves, are separated and love continues. Darling, I’m so much love with you that it actually hurts.

When you told me you’d accept a ring my heart started jumping all over. So happy couldn’t keep it to myself. Told all the fellows but said they knew I was crazy over you and the ring was just a matter of formality. Now I have to buy all the fellows beer as soon as I get paid.

Oh my gosh, sitting here thinking about you and remembered that I was going to church this morning. Clearly forgot, so help me Honey. Maybe you ought to bawl me out in your next letter. What to say, do I catch heck or not?

Dear, please don’t mind if this letter is a little short. The plain truth of the matter is I’m running short of writing paper. “P.X.” is closed on Sunday and the boys will not be back until tonight. Will write lots more in the next letter, ok?

Oh yeah, don’t you ever say another word about your letters, just write them and let me be the critic. I love everything you put in them so my “Little One” just keep writing. Bye for now, Honey, hope there’s a letter for me tomorrow.

All My Love,
Art

P.S. Regards to the girls

Art also includes a picture in this letter. On the back it reads “Lois, this is the only picture I have with me of myself overseas. What do you think? Does it look like me? Ha Ha

Questions, Conclusions and Commentary

Question #1: What is up with the picture? At first, I couldn’t see anything at all and then I noticed the butt cheeks. Then it became more clear I was looking at the backside of my grandfather’s naked body imbedded into a picture that looks like water. I have to ask myself… why was this picture taken of him like this? It does in fact look like an image of him overlapping an image of the sea. Was he really overseas? Or was it all just imagery?

Question #2: Why is it so cold in southern California? This is not the first time Art has complained of being so cold.

Question #3: Why is Art alone yet again? I think I’ve concluded Art likes to be alone. Now that I think about it, he was the type of guy that came but never liked to stayed long. He just HAD to go when he felt it was time to go.

Conclusions: Well it sounds as if Lois has told Art she is willing to accept a ring! Can you imagine? I mean these two have only met not even two months ago on March 17th and now here we are on April 30th and they have only enjoyed 3 days together and the rest of their relationship has been through letter correspondence and yet their love for each other is so strong they are both clear they want to be married. Like Art said, love cannot be defined and when you have it for someone you just know.

I decided to research the address where Art has been sending his letters to Lois. Here is the building I found on Google.

• To Listen to video recordings of the letters being read, please visit my YouTube page here>>>> Debra Worden. When you get there, please SUBSCRIBE to the page.

• To Read transcripts of the video recordings as they are posted, please Subscribe to my Blog here.

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.

To recap this Love Story thus far, Art and Lois met each other by chance. She was serving food to people at a church and he was a hungry, young marine who went into the church to be fed. They exchanged addresses. There were 3 letters by Art to Lois and then they spent 3 lovely days together. Art was given orders the very next day to report to California. It has been 2 weeks since they have seen each other.

The Letter Transcript

Saturday, April 29, 1944

Dearest Lois,

Feel terribly lonely for you this evening, it being Saturday night. The barracks is absolutely empty and I am all alone with my thoughts to myself. Really shouldn’t feel that way after receiving those swell letters from you but I can’t help thinking about being in Washington with you tonight. “Sherman” sure was right when he said, “War is hell!”

Two of your letters were old ones. The one that was typed sure had me worried for a while. Especially after reading “Dear Art” and then hearing you weren’t getting any mail from me. My heart was beginning to sink down until I saw the 3rd letter had my right address on it. Commenced tearing that one apart pronto! Boy, I guess you know that was a real red letter day for me.

Felt really relieved to know that my first letter arrived there. Sounds bad, you going all the way home to get my letter Hon. I love it. Tell me more. Things like that make a fellows insides jump a bit.

Honey, I’d love to go down to Williamsburg on that day you said but heck, Lois, traveling back across country is going to take about five days. That sort of puts a crimp in getting there for the 20th. Maybe for the 27th as the first weekend in June positively. Hope the news doesn’t upset plans, Darling, because it is going to be impossible for me to get there the 20th. Look, Lois, I don’t care when you are in Virginia because I’ll get there when I get back if I must use a pack mule. Honey, do you suppose you could change dates a bit as I’d like very much to meet your Sis and Family. Let me know, huh?

One thing was missing in your letter. What did you do over the weekend?

I see from your letter you’re still not doing much at work. Made a parchisi game while at work rather takes the cake. Wish you were out here, I’d keep you busy. Have you typing my home lessons every night – how would you like that? Then this weekend you could help me study. Heck of a lot of studying I’d be doing. Take one look at the book, one look at you and the book would go flying. The next thing I’d know you would be telling me my liberty is up. Darling, I’d give anything to have you in my arms tonight. The more I think of you the more it hurts and to think that school is going to last another four weeks. Oh well, that much more we will have to make up, so what?

School was rather tough this afternoon because of the exams. Sweated through a few questions but believe I came out pretty good. Will know for sure Monday. This mornings instructor was really dry, talked in a monotone and what with the warm sunshine yours truly fell asleep. Had myself really bound up and was given an extra assignment. Usually don’t do that but have been studying pretty late at night and my eyelids had weights attached to them. When I finish this letter, aim to crawl in my sack and stay there until noon tomorrow. Was going on liberty by my financial status is again zero. Had to pay for my laundry today and that put the last touch on my pocket. Should be paid Monday as some of the boys I know in other classes received their checks from Norfolk today. Will still take some pictures tomorrow night on the base.

Oh yeah, I had a little fall today at exercises. Going through the obstacle course and I leaped over the water barrier. My toe got caught in the sand bag on top and down I went. One side of my leg looks like someone used sandpaper all over it.

Darling, even though you have told me you love me, please tell me in every letter. I want to hear it over and over again. I only wish I could tell you how much I’m really in love with you. Writing to you this way drives me crazy because nothing I put down seems to express my true thoughts that are constantly drumming through my head. Maybe you understand, hope so at my rate. Have so much to say to you Honey, but will save it for tomorrow. Writing to you is so damn easy, could just keep writing and writing. Every time I begin to get stuck, simply look at your picture and words start forming. Writing letters at one time would start me boiling but to you it is a cinch.

Darling, was wondering if possible you could send a snapshot or two of yourself so I could carry it in my wallet. Please if you can will you do it for me?

Think I’ll go to bed now and think about you. Do it every night and is such a pleasant way of going to sleep. (All good thoughts, of course). Send a few kisses my way in the next letter. Night

All My Love,
Art

P.S. Regards to the girls and a special hello to Alice.

Questions, Conclusions and Commentary

Question #1: What is a pack mule? I know 1944 was a long time ago but I can’t picture my grandfather actually traveling by mule. Is a pack mule some kind of slang for a vehicle?

Question #2: Who is Alice? Last week we found out Art’s base/school was actually a camouflage fake city known as Wonderland and now we have an Alice? Interesting.

Conclusions: I feel sad for Art after today’s letter. I feel sad he is all alone with this thoughts on a Saturday night while the rest of the boys are on Liberty. I feel motherly concern he is so tired from staying up late studying that he falls asleep in class. I feel compassion for the worry he feels of not knowing where Lois’s mind is at with their addresses changing and letters not catching up timely. I feel a deep understanding when he expresses words seem insufficient to properly convey his feelings of Love for her. Truly language has its limitations in discussions that matter… Communications of the Heart.

• To Listen to video recordings of the letters being read, please visit my YouTube page here>>>> Debra Worden. When you get there, please SUBSCRIBE to the page.

• To Read transcripts of the video recordings as they are posted, please Subscribe to my Blog here.

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.

To recap this Love Story thus far, Art and Lois met each other by chance. She was serving food to people at a church and he was a hungry, young marine who went into the church to be fed. They exchanged addresses. There were 3 letters by Art to Lois and then they spent 3 lovely days together. Art was given orders the very next day to report to California. He comforts himself with Lois’s picture in his journey across the country.

The Letter Transcript

Wednesday, April 26, 1944

Dearest Lois,

Today I am the happiest guy on earth. Received three oh so wonderful letters from my little honey. If you only knew how much I looked forward to your letters and then to get three, well I was just sailing. The fellows that are bunking with me are all strange but no kidding they all came around and asked why the big smile. First time I guess they have seen me smile since I came out here. So I explained and told them all about you being one girl in a million and showed them your picture. I guess you know they sure did approve. Yours truly felt like a king being way above everybody as we talked about you.

Well now to answer your letters, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday. Hope some more come like that or is that too much to hope for?

No Darling I cannot read shorthand but am guessing as to what it said. It says “Do you love me?” and the answer I certainly know. Love you with all my heart. Gosh, Lois, it sure made my ticker beat faster to read you love me. It has been everything I’ve looked forward to leaving Norfolk. Now all I’m going to look forward to is putting a ring on one of those pretty little fingers of yours. When I see you again, the first thing I’ll do is kiss you, oh happy day, then I’m going to ask you to become engaged and after I put the ring on I’m going to ask you to marry me. Maybe these are all dreams but Darling if they are hope I wake up to find them true. You know they do say dreams come true.

Wish I could have been there that Tuesday night, Honey, the house all to our selves, what a time we could have had. Wishful thinking again.

You know, Lois, I don’t understand why your Aunt objects to you that way but if that is the way things are the best thing you can do is stay away. Besides you’ve shown me your capable of running things just perfect.

That closing part of the second letter was really sweet. Kisses were no longer rationed. I don’t go for that rationing stuff. Reminded me of Sunday night when they finally had to be rationed so I’d be able to catch the bus. Funny how that six o’clock bus didn’t leave until eleven. Honey, do me a favor, in your next letter leave the imprint of your lips. Be like having part of you here.

Lois, that is really wonderful of you not going out on invitations. Believe me, Honey, I don’t want to deprive you of any good time so will leave it entirely up to you. As long as you keep loving me that is all that matters.

When you write again let me know about everything, what you did, what your thinking, the home and all. Every little thing you write about I simply eat up.

As for a picture of me goes, well it will be a few days yet as I sent home for one. Had some taken at home while on furlough. As soon as I get one will send it right away, ok?

Yup, am sure studying hard these days. Really shouldn’t be writing you tonight but heck how can I prevent it. Simply couldn’t open a book until I wrote you. Last night had a hundred questions to answer. Tonight only have about fifty to answer. Really put in a full day, from seven till ten at night. Reveille is at five, chow is at six, and school at seven. Those exercises from four till five are really fixing me up good. Am sore in about every muscle in my body. Appetite is really good though and should be a new man at the end of five weeks. Let’s see, only four more to go after Friday. Saturday began my first week.

Am able to get by, Lois, still have five from the money the government gave me for food. According to the latest “Head” rumor we should be paid soon. There is another example why I think your one in a million. Thinking about how I’m getting along, just like having a wife (wish that were true!). No, Honey, as soon as I’m paid will send that money back. Gee, Honey, I’d do anything you say but that. I want to be giving you things not vice versa. Thanks anyway, Lois, but just am funny that way. Please don’t take me wrong as I’m thinking of you when I say that.

Darling must close now but will write real soon again. Hope tomorrow night. Am thinking of you always – in fact my instructor yelled at me to get that love light out of your eyes and get down to work. Night Darling.

All My Love,
Art

P.S. Regards to the girls.

Questions, Conclusions and Commentary

Question 1 From Last Week: What is the North American plant where civilians are instructing our military men?

I researched this plant and found the North American Aviation plant was a privately owned manufacturer of planes in Inglewood California, exactly where Art’s letters were from. Lockheed Martin and Boeing were also located in the same area.

In researching this plant, I happened across a very enlightening story on the Warfare History Network. You can read it yourself if you are so inclined here: ‘Wonderland’: The Fake Cities on American’s West Coast. It gives a whole new meaning of the Wonderland story. Long and short, these aviation manufacturing plants were designed to look like cities by enemy planes from above. In fact, it was top secret town and people were not supposed discuss the fact it was fake. Tens of thousands of people went to work in bogus villages every day assuming they were serving to protect their lives. In fact, there were never any enemy planes that flew over US territory except for Honolulu.

In it’s day, it was the most dramatic exploration in camouflage of all times including painted grass, fake houses, schools and a church. The movie industry capitalized due to their close proximity and talent pool of set designers. All the major Hollywood studios were brought into the effort to collaborate with our government and the military industrial complex.

Question 2 From Last Week: What is a B-25? Sounds like a plane to me. I have confirmed that a B-25 is an airplane. Here is a picture of the North American Aviation plant assembly line which I found at the Library of Congress (loc.gov)

Question 3 From Last Week: What are doggies and swabbies and why are they referred to as that? Also, why is it “about even” at a ratio of 10 doggies, 5 swabbies, and 1 marine?

Doggies are members of the Army. The Reader’s Digest of one WWII GI was quoted as saying “The Army treats you like a dog. You have to wear dog tags, sleep in a pup tent, eat dog food-and they yell at you when you growl.” Members of the Navy are known as a swabby which is a slang term for seaman. I still don’t understand how the ratio of 10 Army men, 5 Navy men and 1 Marine is even. Maybe Art was being sarcastic? He was known to do that.

A New Question: Why Were Kisses Being Rationed? Why did they need to ration and give out kisses to get the bus to finally leave? Kisses??? I have read and re-read the sentence again and again. It says kisses and then he asks her to please put her lips on her next letter.

Closing Conclusions:

I am both in awe of the magic of Love and gut-wrenchingly disgusted in the story that has been narrated by Government for far too long. I am a labeling this the Trifecta Turning Point in U.S. History when our Government, the Military Industrial Complex and Hollywood began collaborating using its own citizens (unbeknownst to them) for its purposes by narrating a story of Fear and a need for Protection all wrapped up as legalized slavery to build planes. I also have to wonder if both my grandparents were not “in the know” about what was going on. After all, he is talking about “Head” rumors and she is wondering if he knows how to read short-hand which looks like hieroglyphic code.

Here we are in 2020, with mass amounts of citizens being used in a story of Fear between BLM and COVID. Again, we are being told all of this is “for our protection” including destroying our protective forces. Everyone wonders what is Truth and what is fake.

My Vision is that Dark times are dying. The Light of Love and Truth WILL prevail and Win. Let’s consider Art’s letter today. Love is a powerful force, particularly when it is True Love.

• Art’s love is energy. When Art was feeling Love for Lois in his heart, his fellow bunkers flocked around him. They needed to know what this magical energy that had Art smiling like a king in heaven above was all about.

• Art’s love is strong. He has only met Lois a short month ago and already desires to marry her. He genuinely feels she is one in a million and doesn’t want to let the opportunity go.

• Art’s love is free. He does not wish Lois to miss out on invitations to go out with others. The only thing that matters to him is that she keep loving him. That is enough.
  
• Art’s love is visible in his eyes. His instructor yells at him to “get that love light out of your eyes and get down to work.” I know exactly what that love light looks like. When my grandfather looked at me with Love, I felt deeply seen and approved of. Loved.

Love is enough. Love is what matters. Love will win. That is my Dream. Dreams do come True. All it takes is to write, speak and visualize them. Shoot for the moon… Always!!!

Let us all look directly into each others eyes and feel Love until next week.

• To Listen to video recordings of the letters being read, please visit my YouTube page here>>>> Debra Worden. When you get there, please SUBSCRIBE to the page.

• To Read transcripts of the video recordings as they are posted, please Subscribe to my Blog here.

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.

To recap this Love Story thus far, there have been 3 letters sent by Art to Lois and they enjoyed 3 lovely days together. Art received orders to report to California the day after their 3 days of paradise. He will be using Lois’s picture to comfort him on his cross-country trip.

The Letter Transcript

Saturday, April 22, 1944

Dearest Lois,

Here I be, way out in California again. Arrived here at about five last night and began school this morning.

All the fellows in the barracks have left for liberty. Only have Saturday night and Sunday off for the whole week, except yours truly. Must write my little darling first. Honestly, Lois, sure have been in the dumps since leaving Norfolk. Had you constantly on my mind all the way across. God I hope these next five weeks pass quickly. Now if only a few letters from you come maybe I can hold out until I see you again. {Narrator’s Note: Remember in our last letter he was notifying her he had to leave that afternoon. He has had no contact since he last saw her on Sunday April 16th.}

The school I’m going to isn’t so bad, am right at the North American plant. Have civilian instructors, eat at the plant, and sleep in some Army barracks across the road. My class in B-25’s is made up of ten doggies, five swabbis, and one Marine – that’s me. Odds I should say are about even, don’t you think? School goes from 7:00 till 4:00 six days a week. Fun is over for awhile but that is okay with me as it will be quite an education. From 4:00 till 5:00 each day we must have exercises. First work out for me for a heck of awhile. Finished up the workout by running nearly two miles and I guess you know I’m beginning to feel it now. By the time we go back to Norfolk, I should be back in shape again – no drinking and very little smoking, thanks to you Honey.

My sea bag and locker box haven’t come as yet, so am a bit fouled up on clothes and other gear. Good thing I put some writing material in my hand bag – was thinking of you when I did that. No pen though, so please excuse the pencil. Everything will be here next week and get back to normal gain.

Gosh, Honey, I hope a letter comes real soon so I’ll be able to know how you still feel about me. No need for me to tell you how much in love I am with you for you sure must realize that. I guess I’ll always be in love with you regardless of the way things turn out. As I look at your picture now, it just seems alive. Remember how I compared the picture with you by placing it under your chin, well that is how I see you every time I look at that pretty little face of yours. Then the way, I liked best, you looked when you sat in front of me on the couch with a half serious expression, head a little cocked and those beautiful brown eyes just sparkling. How I wanted to kiss them! Remember that pose, Honey, for I want you to do it again and then I’m going to kiss you so hard you will know for sure how much in love I am.

How is every little thing with you, Lois? Just glowing with health as usual I bet. Let me know the way things are going in the new house. Still number one cook are you, Honey? Wish I could have sampled some of your cooking, have to be content with the idea you are a wonderful cook. Remember me to the girls, Dear, they sure are a real nice bunch. It is something to know there are still girls like you four still around. Was beginning to think virginity is a thing of the past.

Darling, think I’d better close now as it so so cold in here I can hardly hold onto the pencil. It gets warm during the day and very cold at night. Crawl under the blankets and dream of you. Goodnight darling.

With Love Always,
Art

Questions, Conclusions and Commentary

Conclusion1: Once again, Art experiences inequality and separation. He tells us the fellows have left for liberty except for “yours truly” on his first night of arrival. In previous letters we learned he received less money than his brother when they wired home for their needs. Art’s experiences of unfairness and inequality seemed to be commonplace to him since he tells Lois “naturally” he received less. We also know he was separated from all his buddies in Norfolk for this “special” assignment in California that is supposed to be a good thing. I find this interesting. I look forward to learning more about his “special” assignment. He barely touches the surface except to say he expects to receive “quite” an education.

Question 1: What is the North American plant where civilians are instructing our military men? I would love to know what a typical day was like there, including what they fed them. Perhaps he shall tell us about that in future letters.

Question 2: What is a B-25? Sounds like a plane to me. I am wondering what he was learning about planes since he was not a pilot by trade in his employment. Maybe he was learning to fix and maintain them? He did not do that for work either, but I do know he worked for Gillette and won an award for inventing a clutch for their mechanical assembly line process so perhaps he was learning the mechanics of engines on planes.

Question 3: What are doggies and swabbis and why are they referred to as that? I’m guessing they are other military branches since he says he is the only Marine. Also, why is it “about even” at a ratio of 10 doggies, 5 swabbis, and 1 marine?

Closing Conclusions: It appears Art is not just a deep feeler. He is also a Visionary like myself. He comforts himself with pictures. He appreciates what memories he has of Lois with her head in certain precious poses. He longs to recreate them again and add the detail of kissing her face as he envisions himself doing with the picture. I love and appreciate his DNA more with every letter.

Although I feel, war is a horrible story under any circumstances, I ponder if profound feelings and imagery perhaps only could come forth in souls during times of challenging difficulties. We are in such times now. Let us think good thoughts of Love and kisses on the precious faces we see in person or online until next week’s letter. Stay tuned!

To listen to this week’s Love Letter, please visit my YouTube channel. Don’t forget to Subscribe when you get there! >>>> Love Letters to Lois Letter #4

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.

We are now on Letter #3. In our last letter, we left off knowing they were expecting to meet for a first date on Friday, April 14, 1944. We know that Art has promised to stay away from the “stuff” (alcohol) in order to have this first date with her and that he finds it no big deal because he wants to see her very much.

I have also learned from my mother, that Art joined the Marines when he was 18 years old. So at this point, he has seen and experienced the first-hand horrors of World War II for 3 years. No wonder he was drinking with his buddies when he and Lois bumped into each other for the first time. He tells her in his last letter that he expects he will only be home for a month or a month and a half at the longest.

The Letter Transcript

Monday, April 17, 1944

My Darling Lois, {Narrator’s Note: Awwww… she has gone from “shorty” to “my darling”. How sweet!}

It seems like the world has suddenly collapsed for me. Nobody can realize the way I feel this morning after receiving my orders. Checked in here at seven-thirty this morning and was immediately given orders to report to California. Am leaving this afternoon by myself for a five week course. Nothing could have ruined my plans for next weekend anymore. {Narrator’s Note: Oh no! Poor Art}

Was going to call you up this morning Honey, but am afraid I just wouldn’t be able to talk. {Narrator’s Note: I know what that feels like… when you are so scared and upset that your throat constricts and closes up and you cannot speak any words. Poor Art… my heart breaks for him}

If you only knew how deeply in love I am with you, I know you would understand. Last night coming back on the bus I was the happiest man in the world. I didn’t mind waiting in a line a mile long, didn’t mind standing up on the way back. My insides are just being torn in two.

If only I knew what your true feelings for me were Lois, it wouldn’t be so bad going out there. And if I only knew when I do come back you’ll still be there, I could leave here with a reasonable amount of happiness but being in doubt has me hanging on the ropes. You mean everything in the world to me, Lois darling, and it hurts something terrible. If there were only some way for you to answer me. Please try, Lois, send a letter to the old address and they will forward it to me. What with leaving this afternoon, my pay will not catch up with me for another two weeks and me owing you that money.

Maybe you think I’m being silly telling you all this but regardless of the way you feel towards me, I’m still crazy over you Lois and always will be looking at your picture now, Honey, sends my blood pressure up just like it did when I had you in my arms. If only last night could have lasted forever, thank God I never caught the six o’clock bus.

Everything I write here seems so damn in adequate as to my true feelings but maybe you can get some idea as to my love for you. Time is growing so short now Dear, have so much to do but couldn’t begin to do anything until I wrote you this letter. Please Dear, write soon as you can and I’ll be going crazy until I hear from you. My mind is just one big jumble now and it’s going to be up to you to restore some order. Nobody around me knows why I look so forlorn, leaving you is the main reason and God how it hurts.

Frankie and the rest of the boys are going to Oklahoma tomorrow. Going where I am and by myself is supposed to be really good but I’d gladly toss it all overboard just to be able to see you once again. Couldn’t eat this morning again so you can see I have it really bad.

Hate to stop writing Darling but my name is being called over the P.A. system so am forced to stop. Will be reliving those three days of heaven all the way to California and I know I’ll remember them always. Good-bye for now Honey.

All My Love,
Art

Questions, Conclusions and Commentary

Well… this letter is just a tear-jerker for me. So I guess they didn’t just meet for a Friday night date. They liked each other so much, they spent 3 days with each other from Friday April 14th through Sunday April 16th. The very next morning on Monday the 17th, Art receives the crushing news that this Love Story of his is going to have to wait since he needs to leave for California that very same afternoon. He plans to use her picture to comfort him. My mother coincidentally mailed me a picture of her mother this week and it arrived in the mail today. It appears to be THE picture he used to comfort him.

I can also surmise that my grandfather was a deep feeling person much like myself. As an INJF personality type, I completely understand and feel inside myself all of the emotions he must have been feeling at this news. This poor guy finally gets a breathe of fresh southern belle hospitality and feelings of love after 3 years of war torn horror only to have it stripped away the very next day. How sad. I get why he could not eat his breakfast. It breaks my heart to picture him writing this letter all stressed out inside with his name being called over a P.A. system. The emotions inside him must have been extremely intense.

To conclude, I have much more commentary that cannot be properly be conveyed in words in this blog about my findings in this week’s research to understand these times. I encourage you to listen to the video recording of this week’s Love Letter on my YouTube channel for the expanded commentary. Don’t forget to Subscribe when you get there!
>>>> Love Letter 3 YouTube Video

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.

We are now on Letter #2. To recap, we know Art and Lois met once and exchanged addresses. Art dated Letter 1 just 4 days prior to the postmark of this next letter. We know they are expected to see each other again on April 14th or 15th. We also know there was a promise Lois made but we do not yet know what it is. Since we have only one side of the story, it makes this Love Story a bit of a mystery. I’ve always loved a good mystery!

The Letter Transcript

April 8, 1944

Dear Shorty, {Narrator’s Note: Awwww… her first nickname}

Thought I better write again after receiving your letter as the other one went to the old address, probably will not get to you now. {Narrator’s Note: We know that it did reach her}

Your letter was really swell, even though the first line wasn’t exactly complimentary. Suppose you hadn’t promised a letter, would you have still written? You’ve most likely never noticed the man power shortage but there is one, honest.

Now your a girl after my own heart, giving out that info on the new place, tel, etc. I’m on set now and I’ll be there with bells on, even if it means going over the hill. At any rate, will call up Thursday night and give out first hand dope. {Narrator’s Note: dope = info}

Say, you don’t have much faith in me, have you? I gave you my word and am still going strong. After all, it was an argument me not touching the stuff and I’d have a date, right? Don’t think for a moment I’m not earning the date as I sure am. In our barracks we have a “P.A.” which sells beer. Every day I go through there and my buddies all want to treat me. Really no hardship, Lois, when I think of next Friday.

Norfolk is simply rotten, meaning the town. Only use the place to get up to wash. The base is ok, although we are having a bit of trouble with the guard detail. Will explain about it sometime if you’re interested. Also will let you know why I’m home. As for what I’m doing at present, absolutely nothing. Will only be here at most a month or month and a half.

Yep, I like to do just about everything. You said something about skating while up there, well I’d like to try it again. It’s been nigh on three years since I last had them on. That means roller-skating, ice skating is my home.

Lois, it’s now time for all good men to hit the sack. Now, don’t you work too hard. No worry about me simply an onlooker, and ditto to your last words.

As Always,
Art

P.S. Pardon how scratchy, no can write.

Questions, Answers, Conclusions and Commentary

Question #1 From Last Week: I’m still looking to understand where Southern Hospitality exists today so I can go have a first-hand “real McCoy” experience. Answer: My father shared with me that Lois eventually went on to work for the government and was a union advocate for people. He considered this an extension of her southern hospitality.

Question #2 From Last Week: What were the conditions that brought my grandfather a feeling of “guilt” for having entered the church that way? Why were they desperate enough to do it because they had hungry feelings inside? Answer: I am able to piece together his guilt was because he must have hit the “stuff” a little hard that day. It looks like Art made his own promise to Lois to stay away from it so he can have his first date with her. Apparently, Lois drew a boundary line in the sand right off the get go. Good for her!

Question #3 From Last Week: Did we not feed our soldiers? Furthermore, did we not pay them? Why did these boys have to wire home for money? Answer: I learned from my mother they did get paid but their money was sent home and they would have to wire to get any of it. So he essentially was asking for $50 of his own money to be wired to him and received only $30, while his brother received $50.

Question #4 From Last Week: Who was Frankie Seaman? I would like to learn more about this buddy of my grandfather’s. This one still remains a mystery and will stay on the back burner.

Question #5 From Last Week: What did Lois promise to Art? Well now we know she promised to write to him and she fulfilled that promise. Lois is revealing herself to be a woman of compassion, service, healthy boundary lines, and true to her word!

Upcoming Foreshadow!!

It appears they confirmed meeting on Friday, April 14, 1944 for their first date and may go roller-skating. Yet another way Lois is a woman after my own heart. I recently bought roller-skates and rediscovered my love for it and it makes me feel young again!

To conclude, I researched the postmark date of this letter and the song Long Ago And Far Away from the movie Cover Girl was new in the Top Ten on April 8, 1944. I just had to purchase the movie and watch it and boy was it revealing in more ways than one.

Click To View >>> Letter #2 YouTube Video

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. They were 21 years of age when these letters transpired.

The Year was 1944. Democrat Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected in his fourth term as U.S. President in this year. The Bombings of Bucharest had begun and the United States Marines would occupy the Marshall Islands the following day after this letter was written.

The Letter Transcript

April 4, 1944

Dear Lois,

Remember me? Hope you haven’t forgotten that date Friday the 17th.

I’m practically positive my “C.O.” will okay the pass but perchance something slipped up, would it be possible for us to go out Saturday night?

Let me know if you will Lois, whether that job of hostess at the church compels you to be there or not.

You know, you were really sweet to me up there and thanks a million. That southern hospitality must be the real McCoy. We would have had more sense to go into a church canteen the way we were except for the fact we had that old hungry feeling. When things began to normalize again, it gave me a guilty feeling but your wonderful personality certainly saved the day. The milk was just what the doctor ordered although it caused a little disturbance.

Luckily we made arrangements for the following weekend as yours truly is stuck on the base. My kid brother in the army wired home for $30 dollars and I wired for $50. Naturally, he received the $50 and I the $30. After getting squared away with my buddies, it just wasn’t enough. Oh well, it won’t kill me to stay on the base, and besides it gives me something to look forward to the following weekend.

Hope you have a swell time home. Wish now I knew your home telephone number as I could have called up from here. Frankie Seaman gives his regards and asked whether your cousin’s address is available.

Well, my “Little Rebel”, it is time for taps so will close with a wish that I hear from you very soon. Bye.

As Always,
Art

P.S. Still holding out on that promise!

Conclusions and Questions of Debra

I find reading this letter fills me with all sorts of questions. I am able to draw conclusions for some through reflection and research. Other things remain a mystery and I’m optimistic they will be answered by reading future letters, or perhaps even through comments of Readers/Listeners who have knowledge of this time-frame. Call it a collective, collaborative history lesson for us all. I appreciate any and all input and feedback submitted dearly.

Conclusions Drawn:

To start, I was able to connect the date he asks if she remembers with Friday, March 17th so this must have been the very first time they met where she fed him and they exchanged addresses. I am also able to infer that my grandfather was a romantic at heart since he remembered the date and inquired sweetly if she did as well. I guess my grandmother was as well since she saved this very first letter he ever wrote to her along with many others.

Secondly, I was able to conclude the following weekend they were to meet for their very first date but there is question about whether it may need to be Saturday night instead of Friday as scheduled. We will have to stay tuned for that one!

I also discovered my grandmother served her church feeding people and that just tickles my heart. She was always trying to serve and help people. She truly was a servant of God. I am proud to say I am a lot like her in that way. I also see she was a “Little Rebel”. She was definitely little at 4 feet 8 inches tall but that never stopped her from anything. “Rebel” was not a title I would have given for her but “Rebel” she must have been. She was a feminist paving the way for women’s rights that were commonplace by the time I grew up.

Questions and Commentary:

I am also very much like my grandfather. He was born just after the “Silent” generation and was anything but silent when he had something on his mind. He was a straight shooter and did not hold back even if his Truth was going to hurt. So here are the questions and commentary I have from reflecting on my questions.

Question Line #1: A nice light one…. What is Southern Hospitality? I am from the Northeast. Does this “hospitality” still exist today? If so, where can I have a first-hand “real McCoy” experience of this? I would like to come visit and blog about it.

Question Line #2: What were the conditions that brought my grandfather a feeling of “guilt” for having entered the church that way? Why were they desperate enough to do it anyway because they had hungry feelings inside? Did we not feed our soldiers? Furthermore, did we not pay them? Why did these boys have to wire home for money? Clearly, it took money to leave base and my grandfather didn’t have it after squaring up with his buddies in addition to not getting what he requested he needed.

Question Line #3: Why did my grandfather “naturally” get jilted on the amount he asked for and why was the larger amount given to his brother Bobby? Was it an honest mistake? Why would a parent send their children different amounts anyway? Why not give them both $40 to be fair?

Question Line #4: Who is Frankie Seaman? The name Frankie is near and dear to my heart since it is my son’s and I grew up with boys who were friends of my brother whose last name was Seaman. Wouldn’t it be a small world if there was a relation? I would like to know more about this man who was my grandfather’s buddy.

Question Line #5: What was the promise my grandmother made?

To Listen to the video reading of the letter, please visit my YouTube video >>> Letter #1