August 19, 1945

Luzon, P.I.

Aug. 19, 1945

Dear Mom & Dad –

It’s Sunday night – have a few quiet moments to say “Hello” before the movie. Tonight we are having “The Corn is Green” – I believe Bette Davis plays the lead so must be good.

Now that all the excitement has died down how do you all feel about the war news? I’m certainly waiting for the first letter from you after the war’s end. I’m wondering how you – and Mpls. in general reacted to the news. As I told you before, I was on pass in Manila when the rumors first broke thru days before the confirmation and just couldn’t realize or believe it at the time When the U.S. announced the surrender I felt very relieved, but not exactly elated. Maybe it’s because I realize that it’ll still be months before I see home. When I actually get on board that boat sailing for home is when I’ll really feel like jumping up and down.

The Nips certainly are reluctant to lay down their arms. But then that is to be expected, when a country is defeated without even seeing the enemy land on their own shores. Must be the first time that’s ever happened in history. I hope they get the news around the countryside in a hurry. Have my own reasons.

Our training seems to be continuing unaffected by the wars end. I guess the higher-ups don’t believe it either.

We have a daily news sheet here in the Div. called the Tropic Lightning News. I’m sending you a copy of the front page as an addition to the scrap book.

I read where gasoline among other things are no longer rationed. Is that true? If so I guess you people will be getting around again after 4 yrs. of sitting at home – tires permitting of course.

Yes, no doubt I’d get a big laugh out of Lyle in a “yoot soot” – altho it probably be more from scorn than mirth. Don’t s’pose that lad even knows there’s a war on over here (or was). Oh well, maybe I wish I didn’t know it so well.

Denny has probably been over to see you now and given you all the low-down on the “two-five” Division. Hope he does come over & have a long chat with you, cuz I know you have a thousand & two questions to ask him.

Surprised to hear that Joe Schaper is a civy now. There’ll be lots more lucky ones now that the Nips are through. Wonder what happened to Jones? Let me know if they hear from him again soon.

Guess I’ll clean my carbine for a change – I know it needs it. Hope I never have to use it again though. Say help to everyone. So long now.

Love, Dorance