September 12, 1944 (to Marion Sneen)

Same place

Sept. 12, 1944

Hi there –

And how are ya, Marion? Haven’t heard from you since way last yesterday so thought I’d ask. Gee, and did I hear from you! You sure gave me h-E-double-toothpicks about that 12 day lapse between letters. I’m truly sorry, Marion, and I promise to try not to let it happen again – unless Uncle makes it rough for us – and that is possible.

But listen “hear” little one how do you expect to get by – bawling me out like that! After all, I’m an officer in the U.S. army and not exactly used to takin’ orders like that. So if you’re not careful I’ll up and pull “rank” on ya.

S’cuze me for almost writing Mrs. on the outside envelope – did you notice? Thought I was writing to one of my married girlfriends – I guess. Hmm.

This letter of mine might be delayed for a few days, because I’m writing it in the field. You see we are out on maneuvers again. The mail service consequently gets a little screwed up – more than usual I mean. This living in the field has it’s discomforts & disadvantages, but I sure like it better than staying in camp and following a monotonous training schedule.

Don’t have anything startling to say tonight, Marion, except that, doggone, I wish I was back there now. It must be perfect weather. I can just about smell the neighborhood bon-fires of raked autumn leaves. There used to be always three or four gutter piles burning down the block. It’s a silly thing to think about I guess, but somehow it’s one of those memories that means “home.”

And another thing – when I think of all the wiener-roasts we could be out on these moonlit nights, I really start to hurt. Or if you don’t like wienies – we’ll make it a steak-fry. I’m not a bit fussy and probably wouldn’t be very hungry anyway. This would also be an ideal time of the year for one of those yearly “joint-club” excursions to Taylors Falls. Remember? Wish I knew how soon all these things will be realities.

Wonder what Bob Coll is doing now? He’s in France you know – or didn’t you? I’ll bet that lad will have a lot of tall tales to tell when he returns. If we can get his attentions away from Ardelle for a couple of hours.

Just had a letter from Rolie and he’s still in So. America. He seems to be (like all the rest of us GI’s) getting mighty fed up with playing war. He says there’s a chance he might be getting home after the European war is over. Wish I could say the same.

Haven’t seen Lee for about three weeks but am planning to get in touch with him next weekend if nothing prevents it.

Your trip to Chicago sounded like a “howling” success. Like yourself, I enjoy Chicago for a good time – a fling as it were – but wouldn’t care to live there – too noisy. I’m shocked at you though, Marion, staying out ‘till 4 o’clock in the morning with a strange Capt!!! Why that’s just about the time we get up for reveille here. I hope – naw, never mind.

That “thing” you’ve got to surmount before you’re champ of 2nd flight at Meadowbrook is spelled obstacle. I know cuz I just looked it up in Webster’s Collegette, Collegiatte, College, oh well, Dictionary! Anyway, Marion, good luck and don’t forget to keep your noggin down.

Say, don’t forget – when you whip up that yellow sport dress – take a picture of it on you. There’s a guy over here that would really appreciate seeing you in it.

Now, if you don’t mind, Marion, (and I know you don’t) I’ll say good night. Oh – just a minute – let me have your key & I’ll open the door for you – there. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Good nite.

Love, Dip