October 29, 1999: Interview with Eugene F Carter



Click here to read the 10/29/99 Interview with
Eugene F. Carter



This interview was conducted by BYU for a National Archive Project.  I'm afraid Grandpa's dementia was apparent in the interview, but still a great piece of history.  Enjoy by clicking here or on the photo.



Please note: I was given special permission by the

Supervisor of Reference Services on March 21, 2013

from BYU's Special Collections to post the manuscript.

August 31, 1943: Speak to Madge

Hello my Sweethearts:

Honey tell Mom and Dad thanks a lot for the 2 bucks, that was sure swell, and I really needed it.  Course I got paid today so I wouldn't have been broke for long.

Darling, how are your colds, are you doctoring up real good yourself?  Remember how easy it was for you to give me nose drops?  (Oh yeah).  Gee I could sure use some now.  I'm going to doctor up tonight, and see if I can get rid of mine.

Honey this will have to be just a short note, cause I'm on K.P. again tomorrow.  We go back out to the field test tomorrow, but just to do K.P. and am I glad.  I guess I better sign off cause 3:30 gets here real early.

But I'll write a real long one on the 2nd of Sept. And tell you all about my shipping orders (I hope).

Bye my Princess, I'll always keep on loving you, and praying you both.  Goodnight Joyce Ann.

Oceans of Love,

Your Speak

Madge I adore you.  You're swell. XOXOXOXO

September 3, 1943: Speak to Madge

Darling Madge:

How's my sweets today, gee I love ya both just tons and tons.  And I'm sure anxious to see that darling of ours.  She sure sounds cute, but then she'd have to be cause look how beautiful her Mom is.

Hon if you knew how tired I am of this place, now that most of my buddies have left, you would want them to ship me tomorrow.  And I don't even care where they send me.

Hansen has gone to the cadets he's still on this field, but we only get to be together about an hour each night.

Simons is still here, but he lives in another barracks, and we get different details each day so we don't see an awful lot of each other.

Boy they sure had us working today, we had to load trash on trucks, and my back, and hands are aching to beat hell.  It's the first real work I've ever done in the army.  And I got blisters on my hands to prove it.

Hey I'm over to the service club, they are having a dance again.  There's lots of girls here, but none of them would hold a candle compared to you, for looks, and I know none of them could be near as swell as you are.  Cause you're the best on earth, and my Princess forever. (No I didn't dance).  I don't ever want to get near any girl until I get home to my own sweethearts.  They don't even interest me, not even to whistle at.

Gee, I think it's swell how Joyce Ann is getting along.  I'll bet she sure enjoys Donny.  Honey no matter how cute she is or how well she gets along, it's all because of you, I sure hope she takes after you in every way.  You are her Mommy, but you will always be my girl.  I love you toots.

Hey I guess you will have to get out that heat pad for this winter cause I won't be there to keep you hot (I mean warm).  It's starting to get cold here at nights too, I guess I'll have to start using my blanket.  I haven't used bedding at all the last two months though.

I sure hope it don't freeze up there for a long time,  so all the farmers can get all their crops in.  Remember how to frost screwed Lee Gammon on his tomatoes last year?  Hope he does better this time.  Has Pop got much stuff that will freeze?

What is Murray doing now?  And how to they like their home?  Do Cullimores still live there?

I'm sure glad Mrs. Mayberry is a good neighbor.  Tell her, and him hello for me.  What is he doing?  Does he still work out to the plant?

Well Princess, it's getting late so I better close, cause remember I'm on K.P. again tomorrow, but I'm going to off if I can.

You know how much I love you, and Joyce Ann, so I won't try to tell you, cause there isn't enough paper in all the world to do that on.  But always remember no matter where I go, or what I do, you will always be my one and only.  Any I'm just waiting for that day, when we will all three be together again.  Remember you are my one and only, so take good care of yourself.  I know Joyce Ann is in care of the best girl on earth.  Bye for tonight soldier, keep your chin up, and keep smiling.

All my Love to you both.
Yours Forever,

Pfc. Carter

P.S. I love ya always, Neeny Boo.

August 29, 1943: Jess to Madge (Tennesee)

Dear Madge,

I decided to take the day and answer all the letters I owe - It's been so damned hot here the last while I haven't done anything except try to cool off and that's almost impossible.  It's the hottest it's been here since 1930.  all the gardens and lawns are burned right up.  everything except the cotton and Tabasco and they look pretty withered.  When we go to bed we lay and sweat and stick to the sheet.  That's what I can't get used to, but I suppose it will cool off sooner or later.

How have you and the baby been Madge?  Fine I hope.  I also hope by now that Speak is home or soon will be.

We had a letter from Alf and Helen yesterday and we're very sorry to hear about her bad luck, but like she says now, she know she can get that way she can build herself up and try it again.

I'll bet they did feel plenty bad I know we would if anything would happen to ours.  Helen's letter saying she had been in the hospital made me feel kinda funny cause about three weeks ago I dreamed she was in the hospital.  She said they had seen you a few times and that your baby was just darling.  Said it made her feel kinda bad.  I hope she can get that way soon again.

I went to a Dr. down in M'boro Thursday he is Mrs. Randolph's family Dr. (she is the lady we stay with).  She went with me - he said everything was fine and Madge I've gained nearly 5 lbs and it's all on my front, boy I've sure filled out in the last 5 weeks.

He gave me another blood test it's just his routine - I guess.  One of the girls I met is also pregnant.  Her husband is a S/Sgt in his squad, they live in Smyrna.

I was sure glad to find some one else that way too.  She is only about two months along.  When we get a place in Smyrna we can have a lot of fun sewing and what not.  Madge I've learned to crochet.  I have finished a petticoat and a pair of flannel slippers.  I also worked  a little Kimono - it had baby Ric rack braid one so I didn't crochet on that.  I have some pillow cases to do but haven't started them yet.

I got me a seersucker brown and white material nity dress.  It's quite cute.  It has elastic gathers on each side of the waist and is real big.  I think I'm going to use Dot's dress from later on.  She said I could before I left.

Lee was in Salt Lake two weeks ago Tuesday they didn't get in SL til around 7 pm and had to wait till 9 pm for a gas truck to come and drain the gas out of the plane so by the time he left the base to go into town it was 11 pm, he went to see Alf and Helen but I guess they were in Provo.  He said their paper and milk were in the hall.  He wrote them a not on the top of the paper but I guess they didn't ever get it cause they didn't mention it in their letter.  He didn't have time to go down home cause they left Salt Lake at 6 a.m. the next morning to come back here.

How is Wanda Madge?  I am going to write her on of these days.  Does Scotty have any idea that he is coming home?  It would be swell if he and Speak could make it home together. 

Madge I sure hope Joyce Ann hasn't had the colic anymore.  I don't blame you and wouldn't let her cry anymore either.  I bet it about scared your pants off didn't it?  Boy! It sure would me.  That sounds like what Mina's baby had.  Grace was saying she cried and couldn't get her breath on nite and that Mina was very worried about her. 

I haven't heard from Harold and Iney yet but I suppose they will write when they get the time.  Have you been up for their place?

Oh! Madge did Helen give you the things she had for you?  Aren't they just darling?

Madge well you do me a big favor?  When you are downtown sometime will you go in Gloria's shop and see if you can find me a dress on the order of the green house dress you got there with the draw string around the waist?  I have looked I can't find one here.  I still wear the blue one I got at home but could sure use another one on the same oaten if you can find one let me know and I'll send you the money for it.

The Dr. changed the date to around the 17 of Dec. I don't know how he figures but guess it doesn't matter as long as I have it in Dec. same time dates it?  I've been feeling swell ever since we've been here.  I only hope I continue to feel as good and I'll feel very lucky.

I know you are busy Madge but write us when you can and take good care of you and the baby.  I'll try to do better in the future and answer sooner than I did this time.

Love,

Jessie and Lee
 

Agust 27, 1943: Speak to Madge

Darling Mommy:

Well honey I've done a days work for the 1st time in a week.  I worked down in the shoe repair shop.  I don't want to over due it so I think I'll screw off tomorrow.  And I want to see Conk off.  He leaves at 11 AM.

Hey toots I'd sure like to be home, and do a little rooting, not the same kind as Joyce Ann either.

Hey in case you don't know, I'm still in Texas, but by the time you get this I may be on my way to my new base.

I'll bet Alf feels silly being the only one left.  But he don't know how lucky he is.  I'll trade places with him any old day.

That was sure swell of Dot, but she can afford it, so don't hesitate about taking it, as I've gave her plenty.

Hey is Helen still sick, how long does it take to get over a miss?  Gee I'm glad your healthy and buxom, I sure do love you all.  And I'll always love you as I do now, my sweet.

What did you mean, you hope it lasts, you Mothers milk, till I get home?  Honey don't worry about saving any for me, there will be others. (I hope) do you?

We have sure had screwy weather here too, it's starting to get cold here at nights, gee just think this year is almost gone already.  And I've only seen you 5 days of it.

Hey some of the guys are leaving her as Pfc. till they finish there next school then they'll be buck sergeants.  So maybe I'll do the same.  I don't care much which they decide.

I sure hope you and Joyce haven't caught a cold, please be awful careful, won't you?  I'm glad you are not going to have her clessed till I can be there with you.  Have you decided who to have bless her.  I'd kindo like Bishop J. Earl Lewis.  He's an old friend of our family and a darn swell guy.  But it's all up to you.  Whoever you want be swell with me.

Well Princess I can't think off anymore news so I'll sign off.  Bye Mommy Bye Joyce Ann.

With all my Love,

Speak

P.S. Simons is stinko and laying on his crack, passed out cold.  I'll laugh at him tomorrow.

S.C.

August 26, 1943: Speak to Madge

Amarillo Texas

Hi my Darlings:

Well sweets I'm still bumming around an waiting for the shipping order.  Conkel is going to leave us tomorrow, I don't know where he is going but I sure hate to see him go.

Hey I go on a detail tomorrow I'm going over and work in the Quarter Master Warehouse #15.  I go to work at 7:30 and work till 5 PM so I don't think I scrwe off, cause that a lot better than K.P.  Simons goes on K.P. tonight at 9:30 and works till 1:30 tomorrow.  So I got the best of the deal.

Toots, I've over at the Service Club they have some girls playing the piano and singing, the guys are making so much noise I hardly know what I'm writing.  I don't think they're listening to the music tho, they are just getting an eye full of girls in formals.

I have just came back from the boxing bouts, boy there's a kid here from Utah that sure bowls em over.  He's the champ of this camp.  I don't know who he is I've never seen him before. 

Hey honey do you remember Leon Frazier, the kid who used to work with Scotty down at Ike Paeys station?  Well I saw him last night, he's here for his basic training as an A.C.Cadet.

He lives down by the frils, I've known him all my life, I used to go swimming and fishing, with him over to the river.  Boy it sure seemed good to see someone I knew.  We had a nice long talk about old time, I'm going to see him again tomorrow night.  I would meet him just as I'm getting ready to leave this place.

Remember when I was in St. Pete I met Ray Heal, we he and Leon are the only guys I've met I knew since I go in the army.

I'm sure getting tired of laying around doing nothing I'll sure be glad to get shipped out of here.  I'll even welcome a little work tomorrow.

How is our angel Joyce ann getting along?  She hasn't a cold has she, be real careful who you let get close to her.  And don't let no kids kiss her, or hold her.  Cause we don't want her getting sick ever.  Hon I don't blame you for not going down to see Wanda, at least while she is sick.  Cause honest honey, we can't ever take cahnces with Joyce Ann's health.

Madge excuse me, I don't mean to be telling you how to take care of your own baby.  But please darling don't ever take any chances, even if it hurts someone.

Gee toots I'm glad Frank, Florence and the rest of them came to see you, now I'll bet you feel a lot better, don't you?  Hey all our friends have sure been swell to us haven't they? 

Gee you must have a lof of clothes for Joyce Ann.  Hey I think Don Giff, was screwy for joining the Marines, especially the paratroops, but he's got what it takes, and I'll bet he makes a damn good soldier.  Tell them I wish him a lot of luck and a safe return.  I'd sure like to hear from him.

I sure hope Chuck is still OK.  Boy he's about done his share.  I don't see why they don't send him home on a long furlough.  I'll bet Florence would be the happiest Mom in the world if they would, don't you?

Hey I wrote to each of the girls and Ed and Lela, and Scotty today.  Now if I can just find something to write to you side of the family I'll be nearly caught up.  But I may wait till I get to my new base.  So I'll have something to write about.

Honey, I love you more each day, and I sure hope you don't ever get tired of these old dry letters.  Hey are you still my Princess now and forever?  Gee your tops Mommy.

Draling each day I'm away from you and Joyce ann I feel I'm being cheated out of a lot of fun and pleasure  I used to say I'd like a kid about 1 or 2 years old, but honest I was only fooling.  Gee I'd give my right arm to be there with you so we could bother watch her grow up together.

Darling I don't think this war will last much longer and then I will be home.  so maybe I won't miss too much of it, do you think she will forgive me, when she gets older?  Tell her I'll try to make it up to her.

Honey I dream of you both each night and I still pray for you.  I can hardly wait to find out where I'm going to be.  I sure hope we can arrange something.

Well sweetheart I imagine youa re getting tired of this so I better close for now.

But remember, Madge how much I love you, and Joyce Ann.  So take good care of yourselves for me.

Keep your chin up soldier.  I love you more each hour.

Yours Forever,

Daddy Speak

XOXOXOXOXOXOXO to both of you.

August 21, 1943: Speak to Madge

Darling Madge:

Gee Honey I'm sorry I haven't wrote more, but they have kept us busy about 15 hours a day.  I am on K.P. tomorrow, so I just had to write tonight and let you know I'm ok.  I have been out on the pistol range for 3 days, and on the rifle range 2 days.

After we got thru they put us on detail making targets.  So I've really been busy, I have moved over to a new squadron, and I expect to move down to post casual squadron any day now.  That is where we go, just before we ship out.

We got plenty of detail now that were thru school.  HOney I haven't the least idea where I'll be sent.  But I believe they do let us know where were going before we ship so if I do I'll try to call you.

I am going to see the Caption again and find out for sure.  What my chances are for a furlough.

Norman Hansen went home today, but he only got a three day pass.  And I sure don't want one of those it take all my time traveling.  He's going to tak about ten days tho, the screwy cuss.

I wish I were there with you tonight, gee I love you.  Honey, hows my two sweethearts getting along?  Gee I've nearly gone nuts lately, not being able to write, or get a furlough.  Madge I've really gone thru hell since I left you.  But after what you've been thru I guess I shouldn't complain.  But my Princess I do want to see you and Joyce Ann, so bad that I don't know what to do.

Honey I love you more each day, and I hope to return to you and my angel Joyce Ann soon.  Gee it's hell to have a swell daughter, and not be able to see her.  and Madge just keep on tell me you're pet peeves, cause I am the one to tell them to.  Oh and honey thanks for the four leaf clover, I hope it brings us together again soon.

Who did you go to Salt Lake with?  How long did you stay?  I sure hope you had a good time.  Well my sweet I better but this one short.  But I'll write a long one Monday.

Hey Is ure did a big laudry tonight, I getting in shape to do the diaper when I get there on that furlough.

Gee we never know what barracks were, going to sleep in we have loved, about 10 times in the last week I guess were just outcasts now.

Sweet I sure hope everything is going alright with the house and you and Joyce Ann.

I'm glad that doctor said everything was ok.  Write and tell me more about your examination.

Sweet I better close its nearly 10 PM and we go on K.P. at 4:30, so I better go to bed and dream of our happiness to come, after this mess is over.

Bye Darlings, I love you both, more than words can ever tell.

Bye for now.

Forever Yours,

Pop and Speak

August 12, 1943: Speak to Madge

My Sweethearts:

Well honey it's all over now, I got my diploma yesterday after school  boy was I ever glad to get it.  that was 5 months I'll never forget, and it was a lot of damn hard work.  I'm going to sent it home as soon as I can get over to the post office.  We are waiting for our shipping orders now, they sent 300 names out today, but I guess it will be at least a week before we get ours, as we are the last class.

In the mean time, we have three more days to spend on the firing range.  We were there all day today (shooting pistols).

We also got out grades for the whole school, so you can look them over.  I was next to the highest in our whole class.  Snell got an 85.17 average, so I'm more than satisfied.

I don't know where I'll go from here, but I hope it's soon, cause this is sure a screwed up mess.  And I sure don't want to be a instructor.  I'm like you, I hope it will be closer to you.  I'm sure sick of this hot weather, I hope the next place is up north.

How do you like my hair cut?  that pin on my shirt is what they gave us, at our graduation services, it is a air plan mechanic pin.  We also have a cheveron sewed on the cuff of our shirt it is an engine, for us mechanics.

Sweet you ask what I did in my spare time out at the field.  We to be truthful we never had any, I was never so damn tired of going from daylight till dark in my life.  And I never thought I'd drink and eat such dirty stuff.  It was the worst I've ever seen.  but then we were supposed to be over there, only it isn't half that bad over there.

I never thought I'd have to steal water, but I didn and plenty, we had to steal it out of the shower tank.

The hike was plenty though but my feet held out fine.  It was 105 degrees the day we took it, and we hiked 19 miles, with a 65 pound pack, when we got in we were wet with sweat from head to foot.  and to make matters worse we wore our gas mask for one hour, while on the march.

We had to go over the obstacle course, the next day with a full pack and pas mask.  And we learned how to mount truck and dismount.  Also, how to drive tanks and destroy them.

We had one day with the submachine gun, two days of camoflouging, and one full day of pictures, and one day of lectures and first aid, and disease prevention.

All in all it was nine days of living hell, but we sure learned what was going on over on the other side, and I'm glad I have had it, cause it may save my life someday.  I'm sure glad my feel didn't hurt me too.

The diploma we got isn't much to look at, but it's what we went thru to get it that counts.  And now I'll be a corpal as soon as I ship out of here.

Darling, I haven't had a chance to write to you, but you and Joyce Ann, we always in my hear and my prayers each night were for you both.

I carry a picture of you both together and pray that I'll see you soon, cause gee honey I love you, and miss you a lot.

You're the most wonderful sweethear and mother in the whole world.  And darling you will never know how your letters helped my out each day while out there on manuvers.  They made me the happiest guy in the world, and made my job a lot easier to know that we were all three doing our part to help clear up this mess.

Princess I'll always love you and be true to you both, and I hope to see you real soon.  Hey you please don't try to go over and work on the farm, or down to Keeley's either. 

Hey I'd sure like to see Edna and Vern, there really swell people.  In fact there's a lot of people I'd like to see back there, so can I bum around for maybe a half day if I get a 15 day furlough?

No Princess, I don't think I'll go over this year.  At least I hope not.  And I haven't had a chew of tobacco for two days wither, so I guess I'll quit.

Honey don't be afraid to tell me about you and Joyce Ann.  I do get home sick, but they keep us plenty busy, so we don't set around and worry about things back home, besides I can take it.

Hey the P.X.s haven't had any film in lately, but I'll send some as soon as I can.  Honey don't take the baby out in the sun too much, or don't take her down to Landrups and her her picture taken, as the bright light may hurt her eyes.  I'd love all the pictures I could get, but for her sake I guess I can do without, until she's a little older, and stronger.  Maybe I'm a grandma am I?

Well honey they're yellering lights out, so until tomorrow.  I'll keep on loving you and think of you both.  Goodnight my Princess and goodnight my doll be good to your Mommy.

All my love.  Yours Forever.

Speak

August 1, 1943: Speak to Madge

Hello my Darlings:

Well toots this is the last letter I'll be writing as a student, tonight is my last day of school, boy am I glad.  It's been a long and tiresome course, but after its all over, it had sure been worth it.  And I've really learned a lot, and met a bunch of swell guys.

I don't know when I'll be able to write from the field, but I will jsut as soon as possible.  It will be some experience out there, from what they tell us.  We don't do very much work on planes, but we study combat tactics, camoflaugh protection from attack, and defence of the air field.  We also are on duty 24 hours a day, ready for call anytime.

Princess, i'm sure proud of you for not starting in (damage to paper - can't ready) how long has it been since you (damage again).

Hey Joe, Dick, and Skinny have got by lucky haven't they?  I still think they stink.

Hey toots that rash on your arm, is just heat rash isn't it?  I get it too where metal touches me when it's extra hot.  I think your is cause from your wrist watch, try not to wear it and see if it won't go away.

Honey what do you mean about taking douches, I guess I'm dumb, but this is all new to me, so let me know about it.

Hey and when are you going to have the baby blessed, who's going to do it?  It don't make much difference does it?  Gee Hon I'll sure be glad when those pictures get here, I can hardly wait.  I guess Mom hasn't had much experience with a camera, but we don't care do we?

I never have expected a letter from Geo Bills cause I knew he couldn't write.

Gosh I'll be happy when I can build a swing, and sand box for our kid.  I'll even pay in it with her, can I?

Toots you always did (paper damage) perfect, and I'll never say a word about them again, this being away from you has really made me stop and think of how swell you are.

And you couldn't be a better wife, cause they don't make em' any better.  I love you truly.

Well toots I got my stuff all packed in my barracks bags and were ready to leave this squadron for good.  When we get thru the field, we will go out to a different squadron and wait our shipping orders.

Boy, I'll look like a read comando for the next week or ten days.  We took a shower and I guess it will last us for the duration of the field test, unless we sneak in some night.

Well my angels, I better get ready for school, so I'll close for now.  I love you both millions and will be glad to get home and see you.  Hope it isn't much longer.

bye for now, I'll write as much as I can while I'm out there.

All my Love,

Your Speak

July 30, 1943: Speak to Madge

Darling Madge:

Gee Princess it was swell to talk to you last night, but I don't seem to say half that's in my heart.

I lov eyou damn much I guess I'll just have to wait until I get home, then show you.

I'm so darn happy and proud about Joyce Ann, she must really be an angel and honey I don't get tired hearing about her.

I brag about her too, and I haven't even seen her.  All the guys ask me how I know so darm much about her.

Darling, I'll be home soon to see you two, if I have to go a.w.o.l., I just gotta see you.

We sure had it sell the last few days in our barracks, there was only 11 of us left, boy we had everything our own way.  But today they filled it up with a bunch of rookies, they are waiting to start school.  Boy it's hard to try to sleep, with them making noise all day, and with the heat.

But they seem to be a pretty good bunch.  we will only be there with them two more days.  We go to the field Monday morning at 10:30, that's whta I been waiting 4 1/2 months for.  Aren't we glad?

Toots, I told you not to do too much work, so let those doors and that cabinet go, I'll do it when I get my furlough.  And don't try to put up any fruit, use what you already have.

Hey that will be swell if Joyce Ann is a night owl, then we can take her with us every place we go.  Honey, I want to do anything but stay there with you two, so don't worry about having her trained, I'll love her no matter what.

Hey and quit worrying about the lot, and flowers looking nice for me, I'll just have eyes for you and the baby, I won't care about anything else.

That's swell that you have to ration book, and stamps for Joyce ann, and I'm sure glad to hear you didn't have to wait in line for a long time.

Everything we do in the army we have to wait out a line, I'll sure be glad when it's all over.

How long have Blaine and Carroll been working on their home, 2 or 3 years?  I sure hop it don't take us as long to build, when and, if we do.

Honey, it sure sounds like all our friends ahve been swell to you, and the baby, and I'm sure glad.  We really have some swell friends.

I'm sure glad to hear the good news about Jerry b. (ain't I ignorant?) But then he's no better than the rest of us.  Now if they'd nail bong, bong.

They are asking a lot of Theola tho aren't they?  I'd tell em to blow it.

Hey swetie pie, don't you dare give Joyce Ann away to the Dr. no matter how swell he thinks she is.  Honey do you think she will like me, when she first sees me?  I hope she does.

Here's some more pictures I had taken, I just wanted you to see my summer cap.  Although the picture is piss poor.  I haven't had a chance to have those others taken you know the one with my tin hat on.  Mayce I'll have to wait till I get to my next camp now.  At least I hope I get shipped out real soon after I finish school.

Can you read this?  I can't.

I wish I could have a picture taken with my cap off, you'd die laughing at me, I really got a G.I. hair cut last time.  It is only about 1/2 inch long all over, I haven't even combed it since I had it cut two weeks ago.  It looks funny but sure feels good.  tomorrow is my last day off, Conk Simons and I are going down town for our last time.  I may have a little picture of my hair taken for you.  Hay these pictures only cost 3 for 10 cents so don't think I'm wasting money on pictures.

Conkel and I are over in the day room, writing and listening to the raio, boy they are playing more of that home sick music.

Gee Madge, I love you tons did you know?

Well Mommy, I guess you are getting tired of this so I better sign off.

I was sure glad to talk to you, and to find out you are both doing so swell. don't forget to go to the Doctor for you check up.  Write and let me know what he says.

Goodnight my two sweethearts.  I'll see you in my dreams.  And write again tomorrow.

Your Forever,

Daddy Speak

You're really tops.  God bless you always.

July 1943: Baby Card from Speak to Madge

July 28, 1943: Speak to Madge

Darling Princess:

Surprise two letters in one day, how am I doing?  Gee Honey, you're the best wife, mother, and sweetheart in the whole world.  I love ya tons did ya know?

I got a letter from Geo B. he told me how nice you looked, and what a swell baby we have.  Gee everyone thinks it's the nicest in the world, I think it's even better than that.

Hey the more I hear about Joyce Ann, the better I like her name, do you still like it?

Gee toots, I'm glad you are able to go out now, even if it is over to the farm.  You have sure got along swell and am I ever glad.

I hope your daughter takes after you, cause thats what I always wanted if it was a girl, remember?

Hey toots, that's ok about Uncle Bert and Aunt Em, we may go visit them when I come home.

Hey I hope Dad gets his 5.00 out of the pears, it will build the house for them won't it?  But I'm like you I'd hate to pay that for 'em.

Honey I'm glad you took Joyce Ann's belly bond off, hey what is it, and what was it on her for?  Toots I better sign off and try to get a little more sleep.  Tell Joyce Ann I love her tons and kiss he, for her old man.  I'll bust if I don't get to see you soon.

Bye my darling, remember how much I love you, and I'll always be true blue to both of you.

Your devoted husband and Dad.

Speak

P.S.  Did I tell you I'm crew cheif again?

P.S.  Did you know you mean the world to me?  I'll always love you as I do now.  Even when we're old and gray.

July 25, 1943: Speak to Madge

Darling Madge:

Honey I'm sure sorry I haven't been able to write the last two days.  Yesterday on my day off, we had to go out to the firing range, then come in and do detail.  We went to school last night, it is sure nice in school at night, but it's sure hot as hell trying to sleep in the daytime.

I guess I won't be able to write very much from now on unless I do it at night in school.  we only have 7 more days of school before we go out to the field test.  and boy are they trying to break us, and make it tough for us.  They told us we didn't no what the army was like, but we would find out the next two weeks.

Honey, I believe we will be able to write, while we are out there, so I'll try to let you know what it's like.  I do know that we go on maneuvers and a 20 mile hike on our day off.  And that we work on planes, under actual battle conditions.

Princess, I tried to call you the last two days but I couldn't get a line thru, I'll try again when I get thru this letter.  I'm sure glad you are nearly as well as ever, but don't try to do too much for a long long time yet.

Gee darling, I'd give anything to be able to see Joyce Ann.  She sure must be an angel and I know I'll hate to leave you both, when I come home on furlough.  She must be the most perfect baby in the world, I'll sure be glad to get that snapshot of you two angels.

Honey, I fixed up that papers for the exta allotment but I gotta get a copy of Joyce Ann's birth certificate. so as soon as you can, why send it to me, will ya?

They sent the papers in, so you shoudl get it in your next check, but if you don't they will probably make it up in the next one.  I sure hope youare able to get along alright on it.  Gee toots, I'll work all the time when I get out of theis army, and try to make a lot of dough, so you can make up for the fun you've missed.

I got that card Mom sent, it was sure swell, tell her thanks a lot.  I guess I won't be able to write them, cause it's all I can do to find time to write to you.

I'm sure glad we got such a lovely daughter, she must be just like you.  It's sure good news to hear she is growing, and that you are able to feed her, I think that's a lot better than on a bottle.  You will soon be able to take her down town and show her off won't you?  That is sure swell of Murray and Bernice to let us use all their stuff.  I would have cost us a fortune to have  bought it.

So Geo Bills didn't know we had our family, I guess I'll write him if I ever get time.

Hey I'm glad Uncle Lee was able to get home, I'll bet they really had a swell time.  It's swell that Jessie is able to go back with him, although I don't think they are doing the smart thing.  She would get lots better care at home.

I'll bet the folks are really thrilled to get started on their home, I know we will when we build our dream home, won't we?  Honey I know you hate to leave our place, but it will be better for you and the baby, and also for Mom.  and Murray and Bernice will take good care of our place.  Princess this war can't last forever, I'll soon be home again, then we will have more happiness than ever before.  So keep your chin up, and try to always think of the bright side.  You have sure been swell thru this, you are a better soldier than any in this army.  I'll never forget it either.

See I love you so darn much, that if I soon don't get to see you I'll bust.  Just think toots, it will be nearly a year since I left (well it seems like it).  I guess I better sign off for now, and go see if I can get a call thru.

Remember darling how much I love you both, and how much I miss you.

Good night my angels, God Bless you both.

All my love,

Your devoted husband and Dad.

Pfc. Speak

July 28, 1943: Speak to Madge

Dearest Madge:

No! My angels, I haven't forgotten you.  These terds have just kept us too busy to write.  We had gas drills all day Monday, and yesterday we were taken prisoner, by the boys out in field test.  We marched and drilled both days until adfter 5 p.m. and after going to school all night, boy was I a sleepy guy, just 4 hours sleep each day. 

They are trying to show us what it will be like in the combat area, cause I guess it won't be long until some of us are in it.  But I'll be fairly safe cause the air field for these big bombers, are always way back of the front.

I just have 12 more days to go including my field test, boy this is one time I'll be glad to get off this shift.  It's nice in school at night but sure hell trying to sleep in the daytime.  I slept from 12 till 4, but it was too hot so here I am wide awake.

Honey, so far my average for the whole school is 84 7/10%.  I have got all 85s but over in test blocks I go an 80, but then that was the eay phase of the bunch, we just screwed up too much.  I got that 80 about the time you were out to the hospital so I waited till you were better before I told you.  But even at that I still have nearly the highest grades in our class, there's just one kid with higher ones that mine, but he don't know a damn thing about these planes, he's just a suck ass.

I guess I'll leave my stuff I won't need in Gonzers car, while I'm out to the field.  He's going to put it in storage down town.  Boy we sure can't have much stuff laying around, cause they took our foot lockers away from us and gave them to the rookies.

Hey, we got ,100 new men in our squadron they are waiting to start school, the poor terds.

They start 100 men each day, but they have a waiting list about 6000 before they start.

Honey, I hope this hot weather isn't too hard on you or the baby, don't go out in it too much will you?  It's sure a bitch down here.  I'd give anything to be able to get a good days sleep in our cool home.  Maybe I will soon, huh?

Hey another reason they have been so tough on us old men, is to keep the new one's in line, and boy are they scared of Lt. Shaffer, but he's a good officer, but tough as hell.

I think the field test will be a cinch for me, but I don't think much of the  hike on our day off as I have damn sore feet.  I got blisters on my left one, and athletes foot on both.  But I just started to doctor them so maybe they will be better by next Monday, that's when we go to the field, about 9 a.m.

I still go around with Simons, Conkel, and Hansen, we have sure been good buddies, I'll sure miss them, I guess we will all be split up, when we ship out of here. 

Hey, how are the folks going to have the house over at the farm, you haven't told me much about it.  Or don't they know yet?  I'll bet Mom will be glad when it's finished, she has sure wanted it for a long time hasn't she?  I wish I could help them build it, maybe we can help out some other way later on.

Gee princess, I love you a lot any my darling daughter too, even if I haven't seen her yet.  Hey ain't that the shits, here I have a child and everyone gets to see her before I do.

She must really be an angel, and I'll sure be glad to get home to you both.  I'm glad she has brought you so much happiness, but I'll sure bet it's a full time job to take care of her.

Well my darling, I'll sign off for now, and go try to get that call thru again, bye my sweets, be talking to you soon. (I hope)

All my Love,

Your Speak

XOXOXOXOXO






















 

July 20, 1943: Speak to Madge

Hi my Darlings:

Well how's the family today, fine I hope.  I'm still getting along, but will sure be glad when we leave this camp.  I just have 20 more days including the field test, and rifle range.

Boy it is sure how down here, and they are still tough as hell with us, but I'd still rather be here than where Scotty is.  I got another letter from him, and boy does he bitch about this army.  I have also received letters from Merlin B and Carl Wilde.  I don't write much anymore except to you, we don't have much time and besides I'll too lazy.

We are going to start eating out of our mess kits tomorrow, I guess they want us to get used to it.  I've dont it plenty before, so it won't be new to me.


We got a bunch of new guys in our squadron they are waiting to start school.  (the poor terds).  Gee I'm glad I'm not in their shoes.  That's one reason they try to keep us on the beam, so as not to learn them our bad habits. 

I sure like working on these new planes, we have a lot of them here, none of them have over 50 hours on them.

Princess are you still planning on living over at the farm with the folks?  How are they coming with their new home?  I'm glad they are thru the cherries, I hope they get the pears done as well.

Gee darling I can hardly wait to get a picture of you and Joyce Ann, I got on of Ed and Larry, I hope our baby is cuter than Larry looked.  but of course he was only 1 month old.  Mayve I expect too much from wee babys, huh?!

Well my Princess, I'll close for now, by telling you again I love you, and Joyce Ann, more than I could ever write in a whole book. 

so I'll show you how much you mean to me, when were together again for good.

Bye Sweets, sure hope you are still getting along ok.  Time for bed, and the dream of my two sweethears.

All my love,

Your Speak

P.S.  Are yo u still my Princess?

July 18, 1943: Speak to Madge

Darling Madge:

Gee toots that's funny about Joyce Ann and Uncle Lee.  But its good for him to learn about them now before his gets here.  Honey, I can just imagine how he treats Jessie, and I'm happy for them.

I sure hope she gets along as well as you did.  Hey toots I've just been learning all about babys, there's a guy here that bunks by me, he has a girl too, she is just 10 months old and he has been telling me all about them.

He's a New Yorker, and it's sure funny to hear him tell about it, but I can understand him now.

Hansen and I just lay on our bunks and laugh ourselves silly when a bunch of them get quarling, gee they talk funny.

Hey Mrs. Carter, I love you now, and I always will, do you mind?

You're the most wonderful girl in all the world and everything I see that's beautiful still reminds me of you.  I'll bet Joyce Ann is just like you (I hope).  She's an angel just because of you.  And she really is a love child.

Madge remember and be real careful, cause you have two of us to look after now.  Well it seems I've run out of paper. 

Bye Sweets,

Speak

July 19, 1943: Speak to Madge

Hello Darlings:

Honey I hope you're not trying to do to much now that you're up.  Gee it will be swell to talk to you again, but I'll wait until you are stronger.  So I'll let you know in a few days when I'll call you.

Gee Princess our baby must be a real angel, every letter I get, they all say how swell she is, and do I love to hear it.  But I'd rather have you tell me all about her her than anyone, so keep it up.

No toots I don't like Dixie Ann for a name, I think we have already picket out a swell one (Joyce Ann)  I know she will like it too.  I hope I don't have to wait too long to see her and you.

Honey, we better not plan on my coming home in August too much, cause I haven't found out about it yet.  But you can bet you sweet life I'll keep on trying.  But I don't want you to think I'm not coming cause I believe I'll get it.  I just want either of us to be too disappointed too much if it's not until later on.  Honey I want you to be home, and not at the station, whenI do get there.  And I won't care one bit if Joyce Ann is good at night or not.  Gee I'd love to walk the floor with her.  I'm still glad it was a girl too.  Gee tooots that is sure too bad about the other babys.  I guess we have really got a lot to be thankful for, haven't we?

Toots my ankle is still just fine, I haven't had a bit of trouble with it since we quit having those cross country runs.  they stopped them cause it is too damn hot here now.  And boy am I glad, cause I couldn't screw off anymore.

Bye the way, there was 26 guys broke tonight for screwing off. (ain't I lucky) but I sure want that other stripe.

I have just got 12 more days to go before we go out on the field test.  It lasts for 9 days, on our day off we go on a 20 mile hike, with full pack, mess kits, rifle belt, canteens and rifle.  And to top it off we gotta wear our tin hats and leggings too, so I'll bete it will be a bitch.  We change shifts next Sunday, we will be back on graveyard it will be hell trying to sleep in these hot barracks.  But it will only be for one week so I can take it.

Well my darling wife and mommy I better close for now.  Give my love to our angel.  I'll always remember how swell you have been thru all this, and love you for it.

Your swell Princess and little Princess.

Bye Now,

All my love,

Dad and Neeny Boo.

July 14, 1943: Speak to Madge

Hi Mommy:

Gee your sure having a lot of visitors, and I'm sure glad for you.  Gee toots you look beautiful tonight, and the baby is a perfect angel (like you).  I'll bet that ring is tiny and awful cute.

I'm sure glad Geo and Follis came to see you, how's Ross, still as screwy as ever?  Honey has Bessie got Gary down with her?  What does he think of the baby?

Gee toots I was sure thrilled to get that lock of Joyce Ann's hair, isn't it pretty, and it's just as fine as silk too.  At least I've got to kiss her hair, thanks to you.  I'll bet you really looked swell when the folks were up last Sunday, cause you always do.

Hey our baby is better than Mina and Kev's so no wonder she's on schedule so soon, I'll bet Bessie and Mom are glad to have her sleep all night, aren't they?

Hey remember when you used to take castor oil before?  that what I thought of when you told me about your taking it last Sunday.  Hon don't be in too big of a hurry to get to the bathroom, you will soon be able to go as often as you want.  I too hope I never have to use a bed pan, I've never tried it, and I don't imagine I'd like it.

It's sure swell of Bessie to come down and take sure good care of you.  Do you ever get to drink a little of that alcohol?

Honey what do you mean, am I feeling better, gee sweet I've never felt better in my life, and I'm the happiest and proudest soldier in the army.  I don't care what they make us do from now on I can take it with a smile.  And I'll sure be happy to get back to you and Joyce Ann, when I get my furlough.  Gee it will be swell to hold my own daughter.  And have you show me how.

I'm sure glad our baby has brought you a lot of happiness, boy she has made me happy too.  Maybe someday we'll have 9 or 10 more, how about it?

Toots all I do now is get up at 6:00 PM eat chow and go to school at 8:00 come back to 4:00, have military training from 4 to 5, phyical training from 5 to 6:10, eat again at 6:30 then bum around till 9 or 10 then go to bed.  We had a lecture from a one star General, last night boy it was sure interesting, he had been all over the world, in all of the combat zones.

Last night we seen a marching contest between the WAACS and some of the non cows, course the soldiers won,  but the WAAC's do pretty good.

Tomorrow we start on a new phase it's prelight and daily inspection, then we just have one more before the field test, and boy am I glad it's all about over with.

Princess I don't know what I got in these last two phases, we won't find out our marks now until we finish school, I don't know why, but I don't care either, just so I finish ok.  I don't imagine we will get very high tho, as we just bum around, with out much to do.

Well my Princess and little princess I better sign off for now, as the guys want the lights out.  Thanks again for the lock of hair.  Bye sweetheart, till tomorrow.  I love you both more than ever, and will sure be glad to see you in Aug.  Keep smiling.

All my love,

Speak

PS - Did you get the card Simonss sent you?  He's sure a good kid.  I'll miss him plenty whenwe get split up.

Bye Darlings,

XOXOXOXO

July 16, 1943: Speak to Madge

Hi Darling:

How's my two sweethearts this morning?  I'm sorry I didn't write last night but we went to a boxing show, it lasted until about 10 PM, then I had to hurry and shower and it was time for bed.  The matches were sure good, they are going to have them each week.  It's about the only thing we have to do, in our spare time.

Hon that was sure swell of Francis and Bill W.  If you pat it to the Dr. we'll give it back to her later on, we will start a bank account for her alone.  I'll bet she will have more dough than us, huh?

Toots remember when you get up why be sure and take it easy for a long time, won't you?  Gee toots, I'm so anxious to see Joyce Ann, and I'll always be her slave and yours.  I love you so much it's a wonder I don't bust.  Honey don't plan on that furlough too much, cause in case I don't get one in August, we won't either one be too disappointed.  But I'm sure going to try and get home as soon as possible.

Hey isn't Uncle Lee the lucky one, what does he think of Joyce Ann?  It won't be so awful long before their turkey gets here, I sure hope they are as lucky as we were.

Well my Princess and sweetheart it's nearly time for school, so I better sing off.  Tomorrow is my day off again, I'll write a book then.  I'm not going to town, I'll just stay here and do my laundry and go to a show.

Bye my two wonderful girls, I'll see you soon (I hope).

Yours Forever,

Daddy Speak