Sept. 2, 1943
Thur. nite 9:30
Dearest Mother,
I just got the letter you wrote exactly one month ago.
It seems that you were worried about me going over to the 84 div for 3 wks. Well, I just wish
that I was still there, that's just how easy it was.
It's too bad that Joe had to go back to camp just as he got home. Did he write and tell you
the reason yet?
My next furlough will be around Easter and then I'll be lucky by the way the co. commander
talked about what we were going to do after maneuvers, but they have to give a furlough before
you see combat so at least I'm sure of a furlough next May or June.
I've been down to the dental clinic today and they checked my teeth and they start work on them
the next time I go down, which will be next wk. same time. I don't have to have any pulled out yet
but after they get me in a chair down there they may not be able to fill one or two of them and may
have to pull them. The dentist said that I have to have 6 filled, but two of them may have to come
out, if they can't be filled.
Today I had to be a guard over a friend here in co. K. who was "over the hill" for 1 mon. I had
to guard him, with 8 bullets in my rifle, for two hrs. during which time he was packing his clothes
in his barracks bag to be kept in the Supply room till he gets out of the guard house which will be
at least 6 mon. to one year.
Mother I really felt funny standing over him with a loaded rifle. Before he went over the hill,
I went to town with him, and I even pitched tents with him out on bivouacs several times, but
today, my friend was my prisoner and believe me I really prayed that he wouldn't try to get away.
Well mother, I guess that this is all for now, so I'll close with love to you daddy and the kids.
Your loving Son,
"Jimmy"
