Shonkwiler |

card - birthday from: George W. Shonkwiler to: Alice Shonkwiler (cover page) A Loving Birthday Greeting For My Wife (interior page) I take so much for granted, Dear And forget, sometimes, the words of praise I ought to speak to one whose love Is the greatest blessing of my days, But, Dear, I do appreciate The helpful, thoughtful things you do, And all the love within my heart Belongs, my Dear, to you. Ronnie and Wesley ...

15 Feb February 15, 1944

Posted at 17:25h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler February 16, 1945 Friday, 11:15 P.M. Noteworthy: existence of radiograms Dearest Wes, I’m all in after a busy day. I wasn’t meant for gadding around. I can see that. This morning I washed the walls of the kitchen, that is, two of them. Then straightened up the house, breakfast, dishes, etc. At 12:30 I brought Ronnie over to Dixon’s as she was letting him take his nap there while I attended the Women’s Club 50th anniversary luncheon with Edith. Tickets were 85 cents, but Edith insisted for it being her treat. We had a nice luncheon consisting of cream chicken on toast, rolls, jello salad, fresh peas. (altho they forgot these on my plate -- darn it!),and for dessert we had anniversary cake and page 2 coffee. Everything was very good. After the lunch a few of the past presidents spoke, and a harpist played a couple of numbers, and we sang a few old songs like "The bicycle built for two," and "Red Wing," "the Old Mill Stream," etc. while girls made an appearance in costumes of 50 yrs ago, etc. I left before the end as Mrs. Dixon had to leave for the beauty shop at 3:45 and I had to pick Ronnie up at that time. After I got Ronnie, I drove over to Sally Hitchcock’s, but found the house empty except for a bunch of painters, etc. I asked if anyone lived there and one of the painters said Sally had moved to California and that the father was moving page 3 into the house. I don’t know whether he meant Sally’s or his folks. I know her folks moved to Chicago several months ago and were living in a furnished apt. It’s funny she didn’t call me before she left, but maybe she left in a hurry and didn’t have a chance. I called her when I got the War Dept. wire about you being wounded, but she hasn’t called me since even to ask if I heard from you or anything. She always said she was having us over for lunch, but never did. When I talked to her in December she was thinking of going to Calif. to live because he liked it so well there that he wanted to stay after the war. One thing if we ever do go West page 4 some day, we’ll have plenty of people to visit. After dinner tonight I took off all the slipcovers on [the] Davenport and the two chairs, washed them and already have them sewed back on again, besides ironing two dinner cloths, 14 napkins and a pr of Ronnie’s overalls. So all in all I had a pretty big day for a little gal, don’t you think? I sent you a Govt. 5 word radiogram of cheer last night. Hope you get it sometime. Sure is hard to figure out what to say in 5 words. I called Gladys tonight to find out if she’s coming in this weekend, and she said she hadn’t had an opportunity to call because Ellen just came home from Florida. She didn’t say whether page 5 Les came home or not. Les was home about three weeks ago for a week, leaving Ellen in Florida, so perhaps he is going overseas now. I’ll let you know more later, as Gladys and Joyce are coming in tomorrow afternoon. I think we’ll take Ronnie and Joyce to the Chicago Theater tomorrow afternoon, and will bake a cake for Ronnie for their benefit, altho I’m having a party for Ronnie on Tuesday (the 20th) to which I’ve invited the Hayes, Campbells, and the Holmes and Pages. I’m only having coke and coffee, tho and not a big spread like when you were home. Marge is having a party for Ronnie and Tommy at their place next week-end, so that’s why I’m not asking the Tostis to my page 6 party. I doubt if they’d come on a week night anyway. The Pages asked me to say "hello" and good luck for them. They’ve given me several messages of greeting, but I always forget to tell you. Mr. Page also said to go see his uncle if you get a chance. Mrs. Page’s brother, (can’t think of his name, oh yes, it’s Howard Bode) is in England now and if he’s near your hospital, they’ve asked him to go see you. I met him and he seems very nice. He’s 37 yrs old, but doesn’t look it. They don’t know just where he’s stationed. I’ll get his address and maybe you can tell. I’m enclosing a letter sent in Aug. that was returned to me today. I wonder why? Guess it’s been all over the country. I sent a lot of letters to this address, as it’s the address that was sent on the postcard from Fort Meade. Did you get the other letters? Good night, darling. I love you Mom and Ronnie. P.S. I haven’t had a letter for 9 days. Hope you’re on your way home. ...

17 Feb February 17, 1944

Posted at 18:25h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: George Shonkwiler February 17th, 1944, 10:00 p.m. Hello Darling, Imagine already writing a letter. Silly, isn’t it? Well you know me? I’ve had quite a day. First of all, I left the car out in front so I could go to the store after Ronnie’s nap. While he was sleeping I went downstairs to wash some clothes, blankets, and so on. When I came up, it was snowing full blast. Great big flakes. It was about 2:00 o’clock. Did I ever page 2 hurry out to put the car in, but already it had become too slippery to get it in the garage. It would get up to the door, all set to go in, then slide way out of the line. I was panicky, but called Mrs. Dixon, and with the help of an electrician who was there, we got it in safe and sound. It’ll probably be July, before I take it out again. Then Edith called and insisted I come over there for chop suey. (She didn’t have half enough). Guess I’ll page 3. have a piece of angel food (are you envious?) before I try to go to sleep? It was good, tho. I hurried home, thinking you might get to call me, (but no such luck). Galassini called and I hadn’t called Sally yet, so I did then, and called him back. The owner is still living in the house, but it belongs to Mulholland Real Estate on 95th. (Is there such a place?) Marge came in tonite for an hour or so, and read to Ronnie, and so on. (He’s sound asleep now.) This noon, he kissed your photo, but tonite page 4 he refused. (Guess he thinks it is a poor substitute for you.) He cried for a while after you left, but ended up by consoling me. I’m so sorry, honey, I had meant to leave with a smile, but it just wouldn’t come. Guess I’m just a baby after all! It’s 10:20 now, and I just can’t bring myself to go to bed for some reason. Would give most anything to have you back, even if you are a meanie sometimes. Guess I’d even have twins, if you wanted ’em. That is, if I’m capable. That’s going pretty far, isn’t it? Hope Page 5. you tear this up, as it would sound pretty silly to a stranger. Cleaned the house up today, and also the upstairs refrigerator, but the lower door (cover for the motor) has no catches to hold it up. S’pose Mr. Page can fix it up, though. Will I have to get all your suits clean, or are some clean? (I mean, haven’t been worn after cleaning.) Well, Darling, hope I hear from you soon, and in the meantime, Ronnie page 6. and I love you very much, and so be good. Always love, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. S’pose the boys will think you have a girlfriend, as the name on the envelope is not Shonkwiler. ...

17 Feb February 17, 1944

Posted at 14:04h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt G.W. Shonkwiler February 17th, 1944. Hello Honey, Well, I went downtown today, but where were you? Got all my hopes up and just had them blasted to bits again. Oh me! That’s the penalty of a soldier hubby, I guess. A girl came up and asked me if I was Mrs. Shonkwiler and said you had phoned her too. Boy I’m jealous. I got there about 11:45 and she had been there since 11:15 and she overheard me ask the clerk about trains from Ft Sheridan, Page 2. and thought perhaps I might be your wife and believe it or not, it was. Anyway, the agent said that no trains from Ft Sheridan stops there after 12:00 noon on Saturdays. But he said you might be at the Union Depot, La Salle Street, or the I.C., or at Dearborn and State, or at the Northwestern Depot, which gave us a lot to work on. We looked around in the I.C. Depot and went home very sadly disappointed. I knew it was a slim chance, but Mrs. Evers (is that her name?) really had planned on seeing him. Page 3. Been spending money right and left it seems. Had June in tonight, while Elinor and I went to State Theater. I bought a bottle of hand lotion and a bottle of Listerine before going in and dropping them both on the way out, stumbling on a step. Just like me, isn’t it? Guess I’d better tell you all the silly things I do, and then you won’t miss me so much. Or do you? Received your nice letter today before I went downtown. Gave Ronnie a kiss for you, page 4 and vice versa. I like ’em better in person, though. What am I saying? (Might as well let you in on it, I sort of like you, honey!) June told us her boyfriend and his <? boyfriend> [friend] came to help her with her exam tonight. I don’t know how to tell her not to bring her boyfriends here. And yet, I promised her grandmother I would. Have you any suggestions? Well, it’s now 12:30 a.m. so sweet dreams, honey and think of us once-in-a- while. Love, Mommy and Ronnie. P.S. Soldiers’ Mail is free if marked, FREE, in upper right-hand corner and your address is in the left-hand corner. ...

17 Feb February 17, 1944

Posted at 17:29h in Letters

letter from: George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Wesley Shonkwiler February 17th, 1944 8:40 p.m. Noteworthy: Dad’s first day in the army. Dear Alice and Ronnie, We have to be in bed and lights out in 20 minutes, so will give you most of those few minutes. We have just come back from seeing a sex hygiene show, a must, and I am telling you we have been kept busy ever since arriving here at 11 a.m. First we were taken into reception room - stripped and given another very fast physical - then dressed and given towel and shaving equipment, then assigned to barracks. They are 90 in this barrack 45 to a floor - we had page 2 lunch at noon (not bad but well spiced). This afternoon we took aptitude tests. Some of them were way over my head. Some were easy. The radio and electric tests stumped me from start to end. We ate at 5 P.M. Beef stew. Show started at 6:45 and after [the] show that brings me up to now. Oh yes - while waiting for supper[,] I lost 45 cents - Poker. Tomorrow I understand we will be issued uniforms and assigned to [the] division of [the] army I am to be in. The fellows here in my barracks are mostly my age or older and so far there has been very little rowdiness. No tough officers as yet and all in all the first day has not been too bad. Well kid, how did you and Ronnie fare after I left you? I wonder if you put the car up and how are the fenders? It snowed all day up here. There is at least a foot of snow on the ground. I am lying in my lower bunk writing this in the very meager light. We page 3 have just [been] waiting for orders to turn out the lights. We get up at 5:45 A.M. Time is up so that’s all today sweet dreams to both of you and give Ronnie a big kiss for me then Ronnie you give Mommy a big kiss for me. I miss you both already, Daddy 6 A.M. Fri P.S. Will mail this when and if I get a chance today. We are still in quarantine. Wes ...

18 Feb February 18, 1944

Posted at 18:27h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: George Wesley Shonkwiler February 18, 1944. Dearest, Sure glad to get your phone call tonite. I’ll bet it cost you a small fortune, even though it didn’t seem very long to me. Weren’t you surprised about Murray being put in 4-F? Imagine? He said he wouldn’t have to go down for his Navy X-rays unless he wanted to, as his 4-F automatically puts him out of all the services. He didn’t say whether he would page 2 or not. Evidently, his scars on lungs weren’t too serious as they told him to report again in 6 months. Well, darling, do you feel any different being part of our Armed Forces? I hope it doesn’t change you too much. Eleanor seemed rather disappointed about not getting the upstairs. I told her the rent, but that would have been okay as later she’d have found someone to live with her. So far, we haven’t mentioned money, but I think it’ll be OK, if not I can always page 3. tell her to get out. I told her if she didn’t like the arrangement, she should feel free to leave as I wouldn’t feel bad. Ronnie sure gets along with her. He was making her fetch and carry all nite for him. I spent this morning cleaning downstairs and all afternoon upstairs. Cleaned the sink, refrigerator, tub, and the doors, and so on. Also cleaned out the dresser chest, and so on. What a job! I still have the big closet Page 4. to do. I wish we had told them we were going to use it ourselves, as I don’t know where I’ll put all the stuff. They have one of those <? fiber> portable closets, so maybe they wouldn’t have minded either. It’s too late, now I guess. I’m sending those snaps of Ronnie that you wanted. Can’t wait to see you in your new clothes. Elinor said she’d stay with a friend if you come home. I have my fingers crossed. Here’s to a "date" over the week-end. Love always, Alice and Ronnie ...

18 Feb February 18, 1944

Posted at 18:59h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. G. W. Shonkwiler 2-18-44, 7 P.M. Noteworthy: A description of Dad’s second day in the army. Dear Alice and Ronnie, The second day is about over and it has been a busy one but not as bad as yesterday. We were up at 5:45 A.M.[,] made beds - cleaned up and breakfasted at 7 A.M. About 8 A.M., we started getting our outfits and I am telling you we got plenty. First we had to strip in an unheated room. Then we were measured and given 5 pr socks 5 suits of underwear (two winter and 3 summer) - the winter is 50% wool and 60% cotton[,] you got me, I can’t figure it out eiter, two pair shoes - both like the kind we used on the farm, not bad fit though; five pair trousers[,] five shirts (two wool, three cotton) two ties[,] wool dress coat, jacket and heavy wool overcoat[,] two over ears caps, one wool cap, one fatigue page 2 cap, one helmet, one fatigue suit (cotton)[,] two belts, two duffel bags, eating and drinking equipment, identification tags and some other small stuff. We put it all in one bag and carried it back. And I mean it was heavy. Then we took our classification test (don’t know yet what I am going to be) took out insurance - made out allotment papers (copies of which I am enclosing). Mailed our civilian clothes home[,] got a haircut (not too bad) and just before supper moved into our present barracks. There are about 25 fellows in this barracks and we have single beds. The <? patrins> is about 50 yards away in another building where we have to go for everything. That brings me up to now. The chances are from what we can gather we will not be shipped out until the first of the week. But nothing is certain. We don’t know a thing yet about what we are going to do over the week end. They say no passes but there might be exceptions, so if I should be lucky will make it home some way. I still have practically all my money as I enjoyed a little luck today noon. They say no gambling in this barracks so I guess I will keep it, too. page 3 Well, honey, I am going out to mail this now and will try to call you, don’t know if we are allowed to or not. Give Ronnie a big kiss for Daddy and let him give you one for me and I hope everything is going all right. Certainly hope I will get to see you before I leave. Keep your fingers crossed. Oh yes[,] we got our 1 st shot today. Daddy ...

20 Feb February 20, 1944

Posted at 16:30h in Letters

letter from: George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Sunday, February 20, 1944, somewhere in Alabama, 7 p.m. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, We are about 40 miles north of Birmingham, Alabama from as much as we can figure out. And from here it looks like we will end up in Florida. We have been riding all day and rode most of last night. We started leaving Fort Sheridan at 2:15 p.m. Saturday, as I told you, but we actually did not board trains until 10:30 p.m. During that time, we were standing around in the cold, waiting. They said the train broke down, but I don’t know, and way after we got on board, it took us two hours to get in Chicago. At 12.30 p.m., we page 2 finally got our bunks made up, and we went to bed. Since I had not slept at all Friday night, I was dead and slept pretty well in my upper bunk. In the lower berth, there are two men, so I was lucky. We were awakened at 6 a.m., had breakfast, sat around all day playing cards. I am a little ahead now. The guys in our <? buvk> are waiting for me to finish this so they can try to get some of it back. It is quite hilly here and we are doing a lot of <? weaving> so don’t mind if you can’t make this out. It is warm here, but has been very page 3. dreary all day, and the whole country is flooded. We have not been allowed out of the car at all, but I gave some [Negro] a card to mail. Now, have you gotten it? I think we were in Tennessee then. I’m sorry you had a trip downtown for nothing, but even if we had left on time I would not have gotten to see you. I wasn’t even supposed to have called you but you know me. The gang here all seem very nice and considerably above average. We think we are going to be in some ordinary division. Of course page 4. it’s just guesswork. There are some paratroopers aboard. So ??? There are two new cars in this train of 16 cars. I am in one of them, so I am really riding in class. The car is really nice and the bunks are quite roomy, but hard -- softer than those damn army cots though. 400 men on [a] train. I think we are nearing Birmingham now -- may get a chance to mail this there so will close. Give Ronnie a big kiss for me and have him give you one for me. I will try to write you tomorrow. They say we will not arrive at where we are going until Monday 9 PM. Guessing again though. Bye, Daddy ...

21 Feb February 21, 1944

Posted at 16:28h in Letters

letter from: George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler February 21st 1944, Savannah, Georgia, 5:30 p.m. Noteworthy: Dad’s train ride to boot camp. Dear Alice, We have just found out that we are going to Camp Brandon, 42 miles south of Jacksonville, Florida and will arrive there sometime tonight. The captain told us we would be placed in quarantine for at least three days, maybe longer, up to three weeks. During which time, we wouldn’t have a chance to do anything. So if you don’t hear from me for some time, that is the reason. This camp we are going to is supposed to be an infantry replacement center where basic training is eight weeks. So you figure it out. Want to try to mail this before we leave Savannah. So will stop for now. I have mailed you a card and letter on the fly so far. Hope you got them. By now, Wes ...

22 Feb February 22, 1944

Posted at 17:57h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt Geo. W. Shonkwiler February 22nd, 1944, 3:30pm Darling, Didn’t get a chance to write yesterday as I was busy cleaning out closets and so on for Elinor, and went up on the Avenue to do some shopping. I bought a chenille doll for Tommy Tosti and a slip for Elsie’s (Beloit) birthday. My money’s going fast. Sure hope the allotment comes along soon. Of course, I’ll have the rent next Sat. I hope. Mrs. Page gave Ronnie a book for his birthday yesterday. Page 2. It has dogs, cats, chickens, and pigs to cut out and paste together as little coverings for each finger. For example, five pigs on his hand and then has a story to go with each set of animals. Real cute. Came from the Palmer House book shoppe -- I s’pect. I stayed up cleaning and so on until 2:30 last night and then I couldn’t sleep when I got to bed. Can’t seem to keep my feet warm. It’s been raining today all day. Rather dreamy. Elinor worked last night and couldn’t sleep this morning, so she got up at 11:30. She’s reading and Ronnie’s sleeping right now. I just finished baking a page 3 cake. The layers are pink sponge with lemon filling and butter icing with pecans on it. It tastes pretty good. Want a piece? Ronnie has been a pretty good boy. Eats all the time and drinks cod liver oil. Elinor bought some too and is making me take it. Maybe I’ll be a chubby girl when next you get to see me. Say -- Ronnie received your postcard today. You certainly got right out in front, didn’t you? Pretty nice picture, tho, altho I’ll have a hard time Page 4. explaining to Ronnie that you’re a soldier. Look more like a Pullman aircrafter in that outfit. Be sure and have a nice photo taken in your dress uniform so I can show Ronnie his soldier Daddy. Your card is postmarked "Jackson, Tennessee". Is this on your way or are you stationed in Tenn.? Ronnie just woke up and I (showed -- bad English?) let him see your picture. I was afraid he’d tear it, so I took it away, but had to give it back as he started to cry and said, "More see Daddy". Saw Murray and Marge last night and he’s going to quit Pullman as Dr. Mc Kamana said it wasn’t doing his lungs any good. Well, bye, dear and write, right away. Love always, Mom and Ronnie ...

22 Feb February 22, 1944

Posted at 15:40h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Camp Blanding, Fla 2-22-44, 6:30 P Now 8:30 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad’s first day in boot camp, Dad gets his Army assignment (Messenger Center Divison) Dear Alice and Ronnie, Just as I started this letter at 6:30 we were moved again - Being moved is something we already have had plenty of. We arrived here in this camp at 7:30 A.M. after being on that damn train three full nights and two full days without ever being allowed off or not knowing for sure where we were going until yesterday. Of course, we had a good idea we were coming to Florida page 2 after we left Tenn. The train ride was not too bad. I played blackjack most of the time - am about $1 50 ahead at present. Camp Blanding has about 40,000 men here and is located 42 miles S.W. of Jacksonville, Florida on Kingsley Lake. It is warm here about 80 degrees today. After we arrived this morning, we had breakfast, received our baggage, and then went through the Classification Center again. This afternoon we had a nice cpl [chaplain?] talk to us getting us initiated to the way they do things in the Army. After supper or chow as they call all meals in the Army, I took a shower, marked my clothes and was starting to write you when we were routed again and assigned to our permanent regiment where we now are. I am definitely going to be in the Messenger Center Division, which, we are being told by the fellows just finishing, is the best and the easiest division in the infantry. We stay immediately behind the lines and receive messages and then send them out again. We do no actual fighting. We have to page 3 learn a little about radio, telegraphy, telephone etc. So far it sounds pretty good to me. We only have 6 weeks basic training and go to school here 11 weeks more[,] 17 weeks in all[,] then we will get a furlough and probably be shipped some place else for further schooling - at least that is what the boys here who are just leaving are getting. They are going to some camp in California. Anyhow, if I had stayed in the rifle Div of Infantry I would have had 17 wks basic and plenty of marching. So far we have had things page 4 pretty nice - plenty to eat - not too bad - my stomach is about the same and so is the itch. I do have a bad head cold, as everyone else has here and they say we will have plenty of them because it is so damp. So please send me that white thing in my top dresser drawer that I used to put up my nose right away. We have 14 boys in this barracks and they range from 18 to 38 in age. However, most of us are 30 or over and married with children. Haven’t had a chance to get acquainted yet page 5 but they seem pretty nice. I could sure use a radio here. See if you can get that small one that i had, <? afuad> together and send it down will you. I mailed you a card and two letters on the train - Did you get them? I handed them to some kids along the road. How is everything at home and Ronnie are you being a good boy? Do you miss your Daddy? Must close now - lights out in 15 minutes. And I want to mail this tonight yet. Give Ronnie a big kiss for me Mommy and Ronnie you give Mommy one for me too and you can write me at this address now. Daddy ...

23 Feb February 23, 1944

Posted at 15:51h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private Geo. W. Shonkwiler February 23, 1944, 11:00p.m. Dearest Wes, Another letter! Two in one nite -- imagine! I mentioned to Mr. and Mrs. Page tonight about sending your radio, and right away he said he’d take it down to Root Bros. and have it packed for me. They were going out tonight for a few minutes, they said, and when they came back at 9:00 he had a box, paper, and twine, and even packed it up for me, so I could send it first thing in the morning, instead of waiting. Ronnie was in page 2. bed, but was kept awake by our talking I guess. Well he came out in his pajamas, and Mr. and Mrs. Page played with him for about 45 minutes, and then he went back to bed. I guess they love both children and dogs, so guess they’re okay. He shoveled all my sidewalks last Sunday. Elinor is still with me. She’s working nites this week and has her car. But next weekend she’s taking it home and will ride with Murray. I bought a house dress today for $2.98. Extravagant, aren’t I? Was looking for a spring coat for Ronnie, but even the page three 50% wools are over $15. It’s a crime to pay that for a child’s coat. Guess I’ll have to get busy and make one. I should be able to get material for about 6 or 7 dollars and save the other 10 dollars. I may use the material Vy gave me if I can’t find any other. AnaLee said she’d drive me to Rockford if I ever want to go. Then she can see Fred too. May even take Mrs. Evers as her husband is there too. Make them pay the gas and I’ll ride free. Not bad, huh? Is there anyone in particular Page four you want me to give your address to, or will you write them yourself? Is there anything you want me to send you? The sky’s (almost) the limit. That is providing it doesn’t cost too much folding money. I’m sending the radio in the morning. You should get it next week, I hope! Hangers are also in the box. Hope there are enough. Well, guess I’ll go to bed now and here’s a kiss to put under your pillow and dream on tonight, Darling. And here’s another from Ronnie. Always love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

23 Feb February 23, 1944

Posted at 14:26h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt Geo. W. Shonkwiler February 23, 1944, 7.10 p.m. Wednesday. Honey, It’s very nice to hear your voice again. Isn’t it just my luck that Mrs. Evers’ husband is in camp Grant and here you’ve been way down in Florida? Would be pretty nice if Ronnie and I could get down there before you leave. The fare is around $50, around trip I think if I remember right. We’ll see how things work out first. page 2 Mrs. Dixon and Bobby and Ronnie and I were down to 63rd today and I just got in and was reading your letter to Murray when you called. I’m sending all the letters I have written. You better read them all. Don’t know how I’ll be able to ship your radio as yet, but we’ll try to find a way. I’m enclosing your inhaler. Eleanor is mailing this, so will write more later. Bye, darling, Always, Mommy and Ronnie. ...

24 Feb February 24, 1944

Posted at 15:48h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt Geo. W. Shonkwiler Feb. 24th, 1944, 11:30 p.m. Honey, Rec’d another letter today postmarked Savannah, Ga. Had a pretty busy day today. Took the car out for the first time since you left. Snow is practically all gone. Got it back into the garage tonight, too. Hooray! Went down the Avenue to buy groceries and a pattern for Ronnie’s coat. Hope you like it. Looked at coats for Ronnie at People’s page 2 store, all $16.98 and up and not good material either. Had liver and onions tonight, gelatin sandwich, and fresh peas and cake and so on. Marge came in for awhile. Analee called and said a man had been trying to serve a divorce summons on Fern, but she hides every time he comes. Finally he told Analee he’d serve it at the plant, then Fern accepted it as she didn’t want to be embarrassed out there. She doesn’t want a divorce now because she doesn’t know how to get along without the allotment, altho she she still won’t live with him. She’s bought three rooms of furniture from some Jew outfit (1.00 a wk, I s’pose) where they furnish even the page 3 pictures on the walls. So far, she can’t find an apt. and Analee is afraid she’ll never leave. Must be a lot of personality to an outfit of furniture like that. Of course, I guess she doesn’t have much personality to express anyway. So much on that subject! Still don’t know whether Judy is having a family or not! Will send you one for a mascot. Huh? Ronnie is learning to eat better by himself now, and sure is talkative. Tonight, when I went over to Bernie’s in the car, he asked, "Where are you page 4 going, Mommy?" (Just as plain as can be.) Elinor said, when I got in the car, he started to cry. -- Guess he thinks every time I leave, I’m not coming back. He kisses Daddy’s photo every noon and night, and he’s also learning the prayer "Now I lay me down to sleep", and so on and at the end, he says, "God bless Daddy, and God bless Mommy". Tonight, all on his own, he added, "God bless Elinor, too". She wasn’t here at the time, but it was so cute. He kneels on his knees, and if I forget, he starts "Now I lay me down to sleep" on his own <? book>. Write. Bye, Love, Mommy and Ronnie. ...

24 Feb February 24, 1944

Posted at 15:44h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 2-24-44, 7:35 p.m. Noteworthy: Army evaluates Dad’s IQ at 123; Dad descrubes the amenities. Dear Alice and Ronnie, I’ve been in the Army one week now and I am still alive. But maybe one week from today I won’t be able to say as much. We start our regular basic training Monday with some of the fellows, not doing anything, took some exercises today Army style. They are moaning plenty tonight. I got out of it because I had a soft job stenciling duffel bags. There were four of us doing it and we do it tomorrow again, they say and I hope. All we do is sit on a bed and stencil. We don’t work any too fast. And we rest quite often. In fact on all detailed work around here, so far there is plenty of loafing on all jobs. Of course they are making up page 2 a new class now and I think the officers are none too strick [strict] while that is going on. They still claim around here that so long as we had to be in the infantry, the Messenger Center Division is the best of the lot. They claim your classification tests and IQ had to be above average considerably, to be assigned to this company. Of course it sounds like the boys are bragging a little bit but we’ll see. Anyhow, I accidentally saw my IQ rating and it was 123. Whether that is good or not, according to Army standards, I don’t know. The food has been pretty good to day[,] for breakfast we had bacon and eggs and cereal, orange, toast and coffee and milk. Lunch, we had pork chops (2) baked potato and either green beans or corn and <? levia> beans, apple pie, lettuce salad[,] coffee and bread. For supper, we had beef and liver, lima beans, salad, chocolate cake, coffee. Butter (plenty), with every meal, so far we have only had milk for breakfast. I guess they want us to drink coffee as the guys all say it is doped with page 3 salt peter. Me, I can’t tell the difference and don’t care. Of course all the meals are not as good as they were today, but they are reasonably digestible. I am writing this in what we call the day room. It is a small building for this company only (160 men). Privates and noncommissioned officers are all allowed in here. There are writing tables, radio, ping-pong table, Coca-Cola machine, lounges, some magazines and books. It’s not bad. Then we have a post-exchange (called PX) where we can buy almost anything from beer to underwear. There are a number of theaters, bowling alleys, volleyball courts, and baseball grounds, and of course swimming. I haven’t taken advantage of any of these yet, but probably will soon. There has been no KP for me yet, but I am keeping my fingers crossed. I understand they take men for KP alphabetically unless we do something wrong. page 4 So I am not due yet. The boys say it is not so bad though. I called you from one of the recreation halls last night. There is one booth there and it took me 1 hr to get thru to you. How much did it cost, do you know? Certainly sounded good to hear you and Ronnie. Well that is pretty much of the news to date. Outside of many of the small things they are teaching us every day. Yes, I can make my bed - and in a hurry. We get up at 6 A.M. - so far. Make our beds clean up barracks wash and be ready for roll call at 6:30. I make it. Most of the boys here are from the southeast. A lot of them from Georgia. They certainly are a lot of Southern drawls wherever you go. Ronnie, ol’ boy, how is mommy treating you? I certainly miss you both. Wish I were there right now reading you all about big bad wolf - and Mama bears and then tucking you in bed after wards. The only consolation I have is that at least 75% of the men here are in the same boat I am. We all run around showing off our wife and offspring, and some of them have quite a flock. Well maybe this damn war will be over yet someday. page 5 What is Murray going to do now that he is 4F? And have you heard any more from Ray Hitchcock? What is this fellow Evers doing in Camp Grant? Boy some guys sure as hell get all the breaks. Well Mommy, I’ve done pretty well for one night for a change, don’t you think? I miss you lots and Ronnie more yet, if that’s possible. So take good care of yourself and especially good care of him for me and I’ll see you around July 1st all sun tanned and tough as hell. The guys going out of here now, having just finished their training, look like they could take anything. Oh yes, the weather today was perfect. It was chilly (about 60 degrees) this morning. About 75 degrees at noon and now about 70 degrees. The only thing, there is plenty of humidity. Clothes take a long time to dry. page 6 But the fellows who have been here during summer say it gets hot. And what I mean hot. Looks like we will get a taste of it. Is Eleanor going to stay with you and how are things working out also with the Pages? Tell them all hello for me and I hope things are satisfactory. Did you get the letter I sent you from Fort Sheridan with the insurance and allotment papers? They were copies, and you should keep them. How are the finances holding up? I still have $14. Haven’t spent much yet. But will over week end, I suppose. We don’t get any passes for three weeks, so don’t do much at that. I am expecting to hear from you not later than Sat. So...

25 Feb February 25, 1944

Posted at 14:18h in Letters

Letterfrom: Alyce Shonkwilerto: Private Geo. W. Shonkwiler.February 25th, 1944, 11:30pm, Darling, No letter from Daddy today. I’m so lonesome! Will be all alone this weekend too, as Elinor is going home. I hate to think of Sat. night all by myself, but maybe <? Onalee> or someone will stop over. I certainly had a hectic day today. First of all, I ironed from 9:00am until 2:00pm without stopping, [ex]cept to put Ronnie to bed, then made lunch for Elinor and I, dishes, page 2 and then started washing in the basement. Hadn’t washed since you left, so, had plenty. Just got a good start when Dr. Elliot’s wife called me and asked if she could call and what could I say, but "yes". She was here about an hr and also brought me a jar of strawberry jam. (Shall I send it to you?) By then it was time for supper. After Elinor left I continued washing clothes, put Ronnie to bed at 8:00, then talked to Mrs. Evans on the phone. She wanted your address because Elle had asked for it. Then Sally called, page 3 and anyway, by the time I got to washing dishes, it was 10:30. Then Mrs. Page came in, and finally I’m writing this letter. Almost a busy day I’d say. Ray may come home within this weekend or next for 10 days. I sure envy her those 10 days. Of course, it isn’t certain, as He’s having some partial plates (teeth) made at camp and if they’re not finished by the time he graduates, he still can’t come home. What a life. page 4 Mrs. Evans said Al had taken tests for clerking and also for x-ray work. If he gets the x-ray schooling, he’ll be transferred to some station hospital, but if he gets the clerk job, it’ll be at Camp Grant. I’m giving you his address too, so you can drop him a line. It is Private Alfred T. Evers AFN 36-902906 Co. A, 1st Platoon 30th BN, Camp Grant, Ill Dick, (is it Risilians?) from Sterling called and said no one there had heard a word from you and got your address. He also said to tell you to drop them a line. Ronnie coughed a little this morning, so I put him on a liquid diet this morning and at page 5 noon, but tonight, he ate a big meal and hasn’t coughed since, so maybe he just got some fuzzy from the blankets in his throat or something. Guess there isn’t a thing wrong with him, as he sure has had plenty of pep all day. He just brought all of his toys out to Mrs. Elliot, and she didn’t approve of the toy tank, as it killed people. He had the room all upset in 5 minutes while she was here. I’ll bet she thinks he’s a terror. Elinor paid me $30.00 for two weeks today (a week in advance). She asked me how much I page 6 wanted, and I asked her if she thought it was too much. She said no, but I don’t know what she really thought. S’pose I should have given her some off for being away this weekend? So far, she’s pretty nice to live with. Even made my supper one night and helps me with dishes at noon and so on. She sure makes a hit with Ronnie. She claims she took two years of child psychology at college and 1 year of child care or something on that order. She thought I had had some course of that kind as she thinks I do wonders with him. Bye, honey. How is your cold? Love always, Mom and Ronnie. ...

26 Feb February 26, 1944

Posted at 15:45h in Letters

Letter from: Alice E. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 26, 1944, 9:10 p.m., Sat. night Hello Honey, Here it is Sat. nite and I’m having a gay time all by myself. The Homes are out and the Pages are out. I just put Ronnie to bed after reading "Mommy Dear" to him. He got to stay up till 9:00 tonite on account of having spent all afternoon in bed, and because it’s Sat nite, I guess. Marge and Murray stopped in about 5:00 for a few page 2 minutes and Martha called to thank us for Tommy’s birthday dolly. Jim wanted to know how you were and whether I had my allotment yet. Pages paid me $15.00 today for next week. I’ve spent $21.00 for groceries since you left, isn’t that terrific? That’s for only 10 days. Of course, I used up a lot of meat points and green points that were due, such as butter, sugar, canned goods, and Crisco, so it’s far from gone. In fact, I have enough groceries on hand for next week, too, so I guess it’s not so bad at that. Page 3 Ronnie is in perfect health and as full of the old Nick as ever. I guess he thrives on having two women waiting on him. I’m so worried about your cold. Please tell me if you’re any better. S’pose I should send you some A,B,D,G vitamin capsules to give you lots of resistance? (I mean it. I’m not kidding!) Sure miss you tonight, honey. I keep trying to imagine myself at the theater holding your hand, but it doesn’t Page 4 help a bit. Seems every song on the radio tonight is sad and romantic. I don’t s’pose you’re lonesome with 40,000 men there, but I hope you miss me just a little bit anyway. I stopped in at Analee and Fern’s tonight, but didn’t stay but a few minutes, even though they asked me for supper too. Maybe if Fern hadn’t been there I’d have stayed. Analee asked if I wanted to go to show too, but Ronnie was so heartbroken when I left Sat I didn’t have the heart to leave him. I asked him if he wanted June to come and page 5. he said, "no, no, June", and started to cry. He just doesn’t want to see her anymore, because he knows I’ll leave. He’s wise and no fooling! She felt so bad when he kept telling her to leave last Sat. He isn’t very subtle either. Just handed her her boots, coat, and hat and went to the door and kept saying, "Open door, bye, June, go away June". Isn’t that the limit? Marge and Murray’s mother were [was] here too, and they couldn’t get over it. You know I just got your letter dated the 22nd, and it’s page 6 the 26th today. Sure took a long time. Put Zone 28 on ’em after this, as it might speed it up. Rec’d your clothes today. Were they ever wrinkled? Funny they didn’t get here before this. Mrs. Page just came home and is whistling and rattling dishes up there. Sounds pretty happy. They’ve been married 21 years and evidently can’t have children, ’cause he was telling Ronnie he wished he had one, and we mentioned Dixon’s having one after 15 years and he said to her maybe there’s still hope. (S’pose there is hope for us?) Bye now darling and sweet dreams, Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

27 Feb February 27, 1944

Posted at 15:38h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 2-27-44, 10 A.M. Sunday Noteworthy: Dad’s first week in boot camp, description of; Dad is willing to trade places so he can go home. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Sunday and a day of rest or nothing to do. I stayed in bed until 9 A.M. Of course I missed breakfast but who cares? That bed certainly felt nice. Besides I had an orange I had saved for just such an occasion. Last night I went to a show with one of the fellas here, saw "The Bridge of San Luis Rey." Not bad. The theater is nice and is about 1 / 2 mile from our hut. They charge $0.15. Or you can buy 10 tickets for $1.20. We got out at 8:15 P.M. and was [were] going to walk down to the lake, but finally decided we didn’t want to get lost in this place the first week. I think we will try it sometime today, though. Before I forget, I wish you would send me about 1 / 2 dz white hankies, 1 pr shoe trees for my brown dress shoes, 1 / 2 dz or so white undershirts and underpants if you can find them, if not I can buy some here, 1 / 2 dz pr cotton and part wool white or army socks, my bathing trunks and some shower sandals. Get real thick page 2 woollen soles if you can find them, some white towels. It is very nice here this morning. Temperature about 70 degrees. And everyone is lazying around taking things easy. I am writing this in the day room - some one is playing the radio with victrola records and there are quite a few boys writing letters and reading. I suppose you are beginning to think I am just on a vacation. Nevertheless, I will gladly trade places with anyone that would like to come down here and take my place so I could go home. We moved again today. About the sixth time since arriving in the Army. This is supposed to be the last time for the duration at this camp. 1st they just brought us here and dumped us into wherever they could find. Then we were put in this company, and now we have been placed in huts alphabetically where we are supposed to stay. There are 16 boys in my hut. There are 5 from Ohio, 1 from Ky, 2 from N.Y. 3 from Ga. 2 from Ill. 1 from Mich. So you see we come from everywhere. So far they seem to be pretty nice bunch. There are no real young men in our hut. One man is 36 and has 5 kids ranging from page 3 15 yrs to 15 months. He comes from Ohio and drove a beer truck. Most of us have children. We were told yesterday that when we finished our training here we would definitely be shipped across. The bunch leaving here this last week all went to Camp Ord California for shipment to the Pacific <? Isle>. So you had better be making up your mind to the fact that in all probability that is what is going to happen to me too. There were 180 men in the last cycle (they call it here) and out of that bunch only four were kept here. And they claim there is no rhyme or reason about the manner they used to pick those 4. I know for a fact that one of the men they are keeping is a kid from the bottom up and just as dumb. Yesterday they issued us our rifles and assigned us to squads and the first unjust page 4 thing in the Army I have so far run across occured. They lined us up according to height. The tallest man in the squad was automatically appointed squad leader. They say you advance upwards from squad leader. Since I am the smallest man in my squad and on the end of the line[,] you can figure it out. We start our basic training tomorrow and here is our schedule for the first day. Arise at 6 A.M. make beds and dress - Ready at 6:30. Breakfast at 7[,] after breakfast we have to clean huts[,] shave, etc. Inspection at 8. 8 - 9 drill, 9 - 11 opening ceremony, 11 - 12 personal and <? sex> hygiene, 12 lunch - 1:15 - 2:15 organization of army and information. 2:15 - 3:15 guerrilla exercises, 3:15 - 4:15 military discipline and art of war 4:15 - 5:15, protection of military information and censorship, 6 p.m. chow. After that we are free unless we are assigned some detailed work. And there is plenty of that. They have posted our first week’s schedule and Monday looks like the softest day. I have received no mail yet. But then none of the boys have either so don’t feel too bad. Certainly hope to get some to-morrow though. I am interested in hearing how things are page 5 working out at home and if anyone misses me very much. You don’t, huh? Have you been driving the car and is it still in one piece? One fellow here has been in the Army since Feb. 1st and says his wife has already received an allotment check for Feb. He says that anyone inducted in Feb. will have full allotment checks sent their wives for Feb. So according to that, you may get a check for this month. Have you gotten it yet? Well Ronnie, ol’ boy how are you and Mommy and Bobby and everyone else getting along? Hope you miss your Daddy a little bit but not too much. I know I certainly miss you plenty. I guess you are going to be a big man before I get to see you again. You be a good boy now and do what Mommy tells you so you will be a nice big man when I do get to see you again. New page. It’s getting close to chow time Mommy so will have to close now. I miss you too Mommy - a little bit. So you be a good girl and take care of Ronnie, and maybe someday I will be able to come home and take good care of both of you. Oh yes, you had better send me a box of those powders. I still have a little stomach trouble occasionally. Bye now and lots of love to both of you, Daddy. . . . . . . . . . ...

28 Feb February 28, 1944

Posted at 23:57h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 2-28-44, 8 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad chews out Mom; Dad asks about "Junior". Dear Alice and Ronnie, Today is over - our first real day in the Army. And I’m telling you, I’m damn glad this day is over. I think I sent you a schedule for the day - and they carried it out to the letter plus adding some in. Those gorilla exercises this P.M. were tough. I thought when I was in school and training for track that I took and knew all the exercises that were known. The Army, I find knows them all, I didn’t. Anyhow I didn’t drop out and there were a number who did. I certainly felt sorry for plenty of those old fellas - including myself. The man in our hut with five children is also quite a beer drinker and he has all the looks of one. He had a hell of a time. I got your first letter tonite. And frankly, I was just a little disappointed. I see you are up to your old tricks - you wrote me a letter on the 24th and forgot to mail it until the 27th - waiting until the 24th was bad enough but to top it off you failed to mail it until three days later. page 2 Temperature here yesterday - Sun - was 85 degrees - today was just as hot or hotter. On top of that we had to wear our wool uniforms most of the day. At our 1st barracks inspection today, I passed everything except my footlocker. Don’t know what was wrong with it, but I will learn. GWS I was practically the only man in our hut who failed to get a letter Monday. And I wouldn’t have gotten one today now if it hadn’t been for Dick <? Briselevis> up at the office. It’s a fine thing when some friend makes enough effort to get a letter to me before my wife does. When I feel in the mood now, I’ll have to see if he isn’t on the top of my writing list I went to a show yesterday afternoon "Friendly Comrade" ["Tender Comrade"] with Ginger Rogers. it was pretty good. Try and see it, if you can. I’ve asked you, in my last letter, about everything at home that is going on I want to know. So far you haven’t answered any of them but I am waiting patiently. However there is one very important thing I am anxiously waiting to hear about. Thought you would volunteer the information - but you didn’t. How is Junior coming? Well Ronnie ol’ boy your old man is quite tired tonite so say an extra prayer for me and try and see that Mommy does a little better with her letters in the future. Daddy ...

28 Feb February 28, 1944

Posted at 14:20h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler February 28th, 1944, 8.30 p.m. Darling, Received another letter dated the 24th today. It was nice and long, too. Hope you keep up the good work. I just put Ronnie to bed, and Elinor and I are both writing letters and listening to Guadalcanal Diary on Lux Radio Theater. Did you get the radio yet? In your letter, you mentioned having it glued together. I had already sent it, so if you wish, I can send you page 2 some glue. Or, can you get it where you are? I’ve got a service flag in the window for you, now all I need is a service pin. Sat. night, after I finished your letter, the Pages came home and asked me to come up for a cup of coffee, sandwiches, and cake. I came down at 1:00 a.m. and got to bed at 2:00 a.m. Elinor went home over the weekend, so that’s how come I was alone. AnaLee came over Sunday afternoon and stayed for the evening. Fern has an apt. now and is moving this week. page 3. Analee is tickled pink. This apt. is 4 rooms, $45 per month plus elec. and gas. She asked Analee if she could get $42 per month out of Jack’s pay because of not being able to support himself and because he’s getting the divorce. Analee told her it would be a dirty trick. The girl doesn’t have any conscience. She bought a $6 sports shirt for Vic (the boyfriend) this week. Just a gift! And $300 furniture (on credit). Her son’s coming March 1st. I can’t wait to see him. Last night (Sun.) Elinor page 4 and I went to bed (Ronnie hadn’t gone to sleep yet either), anyway none of us went to sleep until about 3:00 a.m. Elinor had to get up at 5:30 but I slept on till later, and so did Ronnie. Sure was funny that none of us could sleep. Of course, Elinor was changing shifts, which accounted for her. Of course, I hadn’t had a good night’s sleep since you left. Tell your superior officer, you have to come home at once because your darling has insomnia. Murray is still going to sell his house, and I page 5, was over there for a few minutes last night and noticed an ad for a "newspaper agency" on their table. He left work at noon today, so Elinor said, I wonder if he was going out to check on this agency. Of course, I’m only guessing. He’s not going to leave Pullman until he gets something else to do anyway. Do you really mean I won’t see you until July? Can’t I come down for a visit before then? We’d certainly like to. I’m afraid Ronnie will forget who you are if he doesn’t page 6 see you before then. Please have a photo taken as soon as possible in your uniform, and be sure to smile on it, too. Then Ronnie can kiss his soldier Daddy every day. Have you received any of my letters by now? Hope so. Mr. Page is having a painter decorate their living room sometime this week. It will be in ivory. They asked if that was OK. I’m going to paint my chairs this week, too. They’re using the green set. Decided not to buy their own for a while. Sweet dreams honey, and write often. All our love, always Mommy and Ronnie. ...

29 Feb February 29, 1944

Posted at 15:12h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler February 29th, 1944, 9:30 p.m. Dearest Wes, Guess I shouldn’t write tonight as I didn’t receive a letter today. But, big-hearted me, I will anyway. Murray and Marge stopped in for a couple minutes tonight. I had mentioned not being able to get a rent receipt book in Roseland. So, Marge bought one for me in Harney. Ronnie insisted on going with Marge, even put his own sweater, snowsuit, and all on (backwards), but nonetheless, he got it on. Page 2. Marge felt sorry for him, so fixed him up and took him for a walk down the block and back. I tried to get him to go out in the backyard today to play with his wheel barrow and so on. But he was only out five minutes when he started to cry. I opened the door and asked, "what’s the matter, Ronnie?" And he said, oh, too cold, too cold, Mommy". So, I took him in and asked him if he wanted to go for a walk with Mommy, which was okay. But when he got outside, he insisted on going "bye-bye in car". So, I took him for a ride to pacify him. I’ve been ironing all day Page 3 today and finished all of it, thank goodness. Mrs. Page used the washer today and insisted on paying me 35 cents for it, so I took it, finally. (I’m a miser, I guess.) Wes, is that check for income tax payment in full? Or do you have to make another payment in April? Answer by airmail, (I’ll enclose a stamp). Murray seems to think he’ll have to go in the Army in six months, as he’ll have to report for another physical to see if his spots on the lungs are page four any worse, if not, they’ll probably take him. I got my allotment yesterday, but they enclosed a note saying I won’t get another one until April. I guess they send the first one in advance, so the wife won’t starve in the meantime. When will I get my next gas bill? Can’t wait to see how much it is. It’s turned so cold here since you left that it’ll probably be plenty. It snowed a little today, but turned so cold and windy it stopped again. Elinor went to a dance at the Trianon tonight. A bunch page five of Pullman girls and some married couples, too, were going. Guess I could have gone, but knew you wouldn’t like it, so didn’t in spite of how I love to dance. I’m sure you could trust me whenever I went, as I’m not as flighty as you may think. Guess love slows you down, or something. Can’t explain it somehow. Chicago is now a #1 acute labor shortage area, and all new contracts frozen until old ones are filled, and so on. It finally happened as of March 1st. page six I’m all alone tonight again, as the Pages are also out. Tomorrow I’m gonna wash all doors and woodwork. Envy me? I already washed and waxed the floors Sat. I also washed the fireplace and mantel. Sure was a job with all the smoke and so on from that day you had the draft closed. It looks nice now tho. I even washed the bricks. How do you like the poem I enclosed? Must have been written about me. Sure hits the spot. Let me know if you got the inhaler, hangers, and radio. Sweet dreams, darling, and we still love you very much, so behave, Mommy and Ronnie. ...

29 Feb February 29, 1944

Posted at 16:49h in Letters

U.S. Army, Camp Blanding, Florida 2-29-44 10 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie,I feel pretty darn good tonite even though I have just finished about thebusiest days I have had in a long time. Received two letters from you todayand they were both very nice. So much better than the one I got yesterdaythat I am staying up after "lights out" tonite to tell you about it andto let you know I didn’t mean everything I said in my letter last nite. I got up at 6 A.M. today and just finished our day 1/2 hr ago 9:30 P.M. We were allowed 1/2 hr for lunch and the same for dinner. The rest of the time we were on the go "Double Time". Double time doesn’t mean walk either. We scrubbed our hut this morning, listened to lecture by Colonel of our Regiment, took drilling exercises, <? guerritla> exercises and another lecture in carelessness, 1/2 hr for lunch. Then 2 hr of 1st aid lecture and practice. More drilling, more lectures on saluting officers and about 4 moving pictures on above. Then an examination. I was fortunate to get 100%. Tonite we stood <? Retreat> 1/2 for dinner. Then 2 hr lecture in rifle cleaning, dismantling its care. Then 1 hr lecture on care of kuts and dissipline. And if you think that isn’t a big day -- just try 10 min. of guerrilla exercises. I am so darn stiff and sore that when I sit down I almost need a cane to get me up again. I received a postal <? slijt> saying I had a package but had no chance to go get it today. I hope to be able to get it tomorrow. My cold is a little better but I am still suffering from headaches. A little sinus trouble I think. It’s this damp climate here. We are about soaked every morning from fog and dew and its like putting on wet clothes. Our barracks are nothing more than a roof as the side walls drop down all around and it is just like out doors.I haven’t had any sheets or pillow cases since entering the army. They claim we get them tomorrow but I don’t believe it. Certainly glad to hear you and Eleanor and the Pages are getting along alright. Sounds like Eleanor is paying you enough. Well Ronnie, old boy, you are getting to be a smart boy are you? Just don’t let Monny out of your sight and then we both will know she is being a good girl. No kidding though Mom, you had better get out once in a while. For your own good and then I think you should not let Ronnie get such a hold on you that you have to be around him 24 hrs a day. That wouldn’t be too good for either one of you. Certainly glad to hear that other people believe that you are taking good care of Ronnie and that I picked a good mother for him. Of course I knew that when every one else, or a lot of people did anyway, thought differently. I am still convinced that I got a break getting in the message center inthe infantry. Our instructors claim we are 180 picked out of 50,000 forthe special training and when we are finished we will be qualified to goacross and step into vacant jobs with Battalion, regimental,or Divisionalheadquarters. If I should enought to be sent to a Divisional headquartersit will be right in with all the hight officers and quite far behindactual battle lines. However if I am sent to Battalion headquarters Iwill be about 500 to 1000 yds behind battle lines. Chances are very slimfor anyone being accepted for officers training here. There was one takenout of 75,000 men in the last 4 mo. cycle. You see this is an infantryreplacement training center and it means just that. All men here aregiven a very concentrated 17 weeks training and then shipped across toreplace casualites in divisions already in actions. However messagecenter is something new. There are only two camps in the U.S. having itand we are the second class here. The other camp is someplace in Calif. I think. So we will not exactly replace casulaties but in many cases bethe first to take over where we are sent.That brings me to something I have had in mind for a couple of days.Housing facilities for wives are terrible here but there are quite a fewwives down here I understand. When we are shipped out after 17 weekswe either go on regular troop trains to point nearest our home then allowedto go on <? pan> there home for 7 days. But if we have our own car herewhen out time to go comes we can leave about a day early and are allowedextra for driving home. Now I thought between now and 10 or 12 weeks fromnow if you could learn to drive well enough you could get a driving licenseand a lot of gas and drive down here with Ronnie about the last two weeksof my stay, then we all could to back together and maybe have a littlevacation on the way. Its just an idea but you can start working on it.Maybe <? Einil> Kuester could help you with the gas. The rest would beup to you I’m afraid.Well its 10:45 and we have bed check at 11 PM. By the time I get thismailed and undressed and in bed I’ll just make it. So bye for now andlot of love to both of you. I wish like everything I was there with you.DaddyP.S. How about Junior? ...

01 Mar March 1, 1944

Posted at 21:19h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 1st, 1944, 4 o’clock p.m. Darling, Am writing this short note and enclosing this wire received today. I would wire a reply telling him you are in the army and so on, but would also have to express sympathy, and I don’t know whether this is his wife, child, or if at all related to him. Maybe I should even send flowers. I just don’t know what to do. If you write him, please explain why I didn’t do anything about it won’t you? page 2 If it’s his wife, it must be terrible with all his children. I just wired you, so I guess you’ll get it before this letter. Thought maybe if you did want me to send flowers or something, you could wire me back at once. Well, now that I wired you, I can keep on writing this letter and mail it after Ronnie wakes up. He just woke up now and had to go "toily". He didn’t quite make it, but almost. I gave him a good balling out one morning for wetting the bed. He hasn’t wet it since. Such an influence I page 3 have. He’s a good boy. Of course he might be slightly hen-pecked by the time you get here with all these women. Of course Murray and Mr. Page keep up his moral some anyway. I got a letter from Forrest today. He said he’d mislaid your card, so wanted your address. He finishes boat training Mar. 16th, and the[n] he expects to go to a hospital school, there for 6 wks. then will be shipped out. That means he’ll be shipped out in 3 mo. They really rush ’em through now, don’t they? I’ve sure got the blues page 4 tonight after getting Paul’s telegram, your brothers and your letters saying you’re both going overseas so soon. Elinor is bowling tonight, so I’m alone again. Haven’t been out since a week ago Sat. that’s bad, isn’t it? Will try to get some of those things you want tomorrow if the weather’s nice and I can take the car out. It’s been nice today, but pretty cold. Well, guess I’d better take Ronnie off the what’s it and wash dishes and wash some more doors. I washed the kitchen woodwork today. Good night, sweetheart and drop me a line. Didn’t get a letter for two days, but got one today dated February 27th. Ronnie says, Bye, Daddy. Love, Mom. P.S. Miss me more than a little bit yet? Vida Campbell called and asked about you. Said Ben had asked her to every night. So she finally did. She got your address. ...

02 Mar March 2, 1944

Posted at 21:16h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 2nd, 1944, 11:00 PM Noteworthy: Mom scolds Dad; talk about Junior. Dear Wes, I received your letter of the 28th today and was very much taken aback at your scolding me about not writing, and so on. You also mentioned receiving only one letter dated the 24th mailed the 27th. There is something wrong somewhere because I written you a letter a day except for one day and then I wrote two another day instead. Every letter I written has been mailed not later than the next day. I also wrote page two one every day while you were in Fort Sheridan and while you were on the way but couldn’t mail them until I got the address and then I mailed them all at once, the day after you called, at the post office. I’ve also sent your inhaler in one letter, your radio, and another package yesterday. I got the list of things you wanted. Went out today to buy them and will pack them tonight and will go to the post office to send them tomorrow morning. I think your bawling me out was unfair and I’ve written you at least a dozen letters page three since you left. The ones I wrote before I knew your address I sent in one envelope. I’ve also sent all of them but one by airmail. I also sent you a telegram. I even called the post office today and asked them how come something mailed the 24th would be stamped the 27th. They said it’s possible there was a slip up or got misled or something. You know in your heart I wouldn’t carry a letter of yours around three days before mailing, or have you completely given up all page four trust in me since you got in the army. I’m sorry this misunderstanding came up but I’m sure I’m doing my part. After all there’s such a thing as you’re trying to keep up my morale too. Although I’m not complaining, it’s not the simplest thing in the world being left all the home responsibilities either and then get a scolding on top of it. Well that’s enough of that I guess. I sincerely hope you will get all the rest of my letters and all will be forgotten. You asked about junior. Guess you’ll have to get a furlough as far as I haven’t page five seen any results. Maybe you’d better send your letters air mail as it takes four days by regular mail. Of course, mine don’t seem to be getting to you at all. So maybe regular mail is best. I spent about seven dollars or more today on socks, towels, shower slippers, and so on for you. Didn’t know what kind of undershirts you meant so I sent your old ones. Can you buy white shorts cheaper than 65 cents there? I’m thinking of page six. knit jockey shorts. Is that what you want? Do you by any chance want your jockstrap? If so, let me know as it’s in the storage closet upstairs. Ronnie was on the Avenue with me today and had a big time. We also had lunch at Ford’s and Hopkins. Spent 53 cents on the two of us. Extravagant, don’t you think? Ronnie still remembers that the orange toothbrush is Daddy’s in the rack. He also kisses your picture and says "God bless Daddy" every night. Ernest Hayes dropped in for their house key this afternoon as Edith had gone away and locked him out. Poor Ernest. Bye honey and please don’t stay mad at me as I’m not such a bad kid. Bye, Love, Ronnie and Mommy. ...

02 Mar March 2, 1944

Posted at 16:56h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-2-44, 6:15 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Will try to get in a few lines now before we have to fall out on the double for something else. Every time they want us around here it’s "fall out on the double." And that means run - not trot or walk. This week we have been falling out practically all the time from 5 A.M. to 9:30 P.M. In other words, our training has really started in a big way. We have had lectures, movies, exercise, drill, chemical warfare, gas mass drill, physical inspections, retreat inspections, ex animations, etc. until I am blue in the face. I am still plenty stiff and sore both physically and mentally. We are plenty tired when "lights out," time comes but last nite is the first good nite’s sleep I’ve had since entering [the] Army. My itch is bothering me a little also my stomach, between page 2 the two and my many aches, I am kinda feeling Army life. A little too much for my personal satisfaction. Today, for some reason and on questionable basis, I was picked along with three other fellows to be temporary squad leaders of our respective squads. A squad here is 15 men. The squad leaders originally picked were all replaced. No one knows why. I suppose this time next week they will be replacing me too, because I was really mixed up today. The telegram about Zetta Smith’s death really gave me a good scare for a few minutes. They gave it to me last nite at the retreat and of course I could not open it until after it was over. All the time I was worried about which one of you it was. (Now, 9 P.M., since starting this. Have had 4 long overdue letters from you and saw a "must" picture on "actions of [a] soldier when entering battle for a first time." it was kind of gruesome.) The letters were the first ones you wrote. The ones with the pictures and inhaler etc. Guess I spoke a little too fast a page 3 couple days ago. But it did take them a hell of a long time getting here. I was beginning to think Ronnie doesn’t miss me at all because you hadn’t said anything in the letters I had received so far. But now that you say he does, I guess I feel a little better. The check for income tax is for only part of the tax. The rest will have to be paid in 1945. You do not have to pay any more in April, as I understand it. So you have money now. Spend some for me, will you? As for washing and scrubbing -- Baby, we do plenty of that here. [I] got the radio and hangers last nite and they were O.K. It was very nice of Mr. Page to get the materials to pack it for you. Thank him for me. [I’m] Also glad he fixed up the sidewalks for you. As for taking a picture here of myself I don’t know how or where it can be done because they have no such facilities here in camp. And as you know we cannot get out for at least 3 weeks. The same goes for the pin you asked for. I will page 4 see what I can do, though, at the first opportunity. [I] wonder what happened to Edith and Ernest. As for giving out my address, you can give it to anyone who wants it. No fooling. we are kept so damn busy here we don’t have time to write much. There are a dozen things I should be doing right now instead of writing you. And after I finish this they will still be here to be done before retiring for the nite. I think all my suits not in bags are dirty and should be cleaned. (You see I am kinda going back thru your letters and answering your questions as they come up). Oh yes. when you write my name, write it plain and write the O in Shonkwiler like one not like an a as you are in the habit of writing it. I am very interested in hearing what Murray has done or is going to do. I still believe that someday he will be sorry if he doesn’t get in the army -- as tough as I already know it is and as much as I would like to be home write [right] this minute for good. We are learning a lot and we certainly meet a lot of nice guys. Especially now since practically all of them are older and have been pretty well established in life. page 5 The boys in this hut are all nice and so far very congenial. They come from all walks of life, barber, nite club owner, beer truck driver, salesman, C.P.A. etc. The worst part of the army so far is the guerrilla exercises, marching thru sand, (we have from 6 to 8 <? wiakes> all over here) and wearing those damn leggings. Everything else I have either done plenty of before or is merely routine. The food has been pretty good with the exception of today. Today was really lousy. All starches and mo meat at all. And then we never get milk even once a day. And not enough then. Have not had [a] chance to write to Evers yet. Call his wife and tell her to have him write me. And I will write [him] the first chance I get. Got a letter from Gladys yesterday. All the rest have been from you. Will try to write other people if we ever page 6 get a break which I doubt. They really mean to crowd 17 weeks basic training into 6 wks. I can see that now. Maybe the last 11 wks will not be as tough. Well honey, I am glad you still love me and miss me a little. Even though I don’t tell you very often I love you too and miss you a <? hell of a lot>. Ronnie too. Take good care of him and yourself and I’ll be there someday yet. Lots of love and bye for now. Give each other a big kiss for me. Goodnite Ronnie little boy, Daddy P.S. Tell Oralee hello for me and the trip to Rockford sounds like it might be O.K. Also say hello to your roommate and hope you are both getting along O.K. Lights out, GWS ...

03 Mar March 3, 1944

Posted at 17:32h in Letters

U.S. Army, Camp Blanding, Florida2-29-44 10 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie,I feel pretty darn good tonite even though I have just finished about the busist days I have had in a long time. Received two letters from you today and they were both very nice. So much better than the one I got yesterday that I am staying up after "lights out" tonite to tell you about it and to let you know I didn't mean everything I said in my letter last nite. I got up at 6 A.M. today and just finished our day 1/2 hr ago 9:30 P.M. We were allowed 1/2 hr for lunch and the same for dinner. The rest of the time we were on the go "Double Time". Double time doesn't mean walk either. We scrubbed our hut this morning, listened to lecture by Colonel of our Regiment, took drilling exercises, exercises and another lecture in carelessness, 1/2 hr for lunch. Then 2 hr of 1st aid lecture and practice. More drilling, more lectures on saluting officers and about 4 moving pictures on above. Then an examination. I was fortunate to get 100%. Tonite we stood 1/2 for dinner. Then 2 hr lecture in rifle cleaning, dismantling its care. Then 1 hr lecture on care of kuts and dissipline. And if you think that isn't a big day -- just try 10 min. of guerrilla exercises. I am so darn stiff and sore that when I sit down I almost need a cane to get me up again. I received a postal saying I had a package but had no chance to go get it today. I hope to be able to get it tomorrow. My cold is a little better but I am still suffering from headaches. A little sinus trouble I think. It's this damp climate here. We are about soaked every morning from fog and dew and its like putting on wet clothes. Our barracks are nothing more than a roof as the side walls drop down all around and it is just like out doors.I haven't had any sheets or pillow cases since entering the army. They claim we get them tomorrow but I don't believe it. Certainly glad to hear you and Eleanor and the Pages are getting along alright. Sounds like Eleanor is paying you enough. Well Ronnie, old boy, you are getting to be a smart boy are you? Just don't let Monny out of your sight and then we both will know she is being a good girl. No kidding though Mom, you had better get out oncein a while. For your own good and then I think you should not let Ronnie get such a hold on you that you have to be around him 24 hrs a day. That wouldn't be too good for either one of you. Certainly glad to hear that other people believe that you are taking good care of Ronnie and that I picked a good mother for him. Of course I knew that when every one else, or a lot of people did anyway, thought differently. I am still convinced that I got a break getting in the message center in the infantry. Our instructors claim we are 180 picked out of 50,000 for the special training and when we are finished we will be qualified to go across and step into vacant jobs with Battalion, regimental,or Divisionalheadquarters. If I should enought to be sent to a Divisional headquarters it will be right in with all the hight officers and quite far behing actual battle lines. However if I am sent to Battalion headquarters I will be about 500 to 1000 yds behind battle lines. Chances are very slim for anyone being accepted for officers training here. There was one taken out of 75,000 men in the last 4 mo. cycle. You see this is an infantry replacement training center and it means just that. All men here are given a very concentrated 17 weeks training and then shipped across to replace casualites in divisions already in actions. However message center is something new. There are only two camps in the U.S. having it and we are the second class here. The other camp is someplace in Calif. I think. So we will not exactly replace casulaties but in many cases be the first to take over where we are sent. That brings me to something I have had in mind for a couple of days. Housing facilities for wives are terrible here but there are quite a few wives down here I understand. When we are shipped out after 17 weeks we either go on regular troop trains to point nearest our home then allowed to go on there home for 7 days. But if we have our own car here when out time to go comes we can leave about a day early and are allowed extra for driving home. Now I thought between now and 10 or 12 weeks from now if you could learn to drive well enough you could get a driving license and a lot of gas and drive down here with Ronnie about the last two weeks of my stay, then we all could to back together and maybe have a little vacation on the way. Its just an idea but you can start working on it. Maybe Kuester could help you with the gas. The rest would beup to you I'm afraid. Well its 10:45 and we have bed check at 11 PM. By the time I get this mailed and undressed and in bed I'll just make it. So bye for now and lot of love to both of you. I wish like everything I was there with you. DaddyP.S. How about Junior? ...

03 Mar March 3, 1944

Posted at 12:46h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 3, 1944, 9:40 p.m. Dearest, I received your special delivery letter today. I’m glad you halfway apologized for the nasty letter of the day before. You sure made me feel bad. I mailed you the package today with the thing you requested. That is, all but the shorts, as I didn’t know what kind you wanted, or what size you wear. So, let me know. Did I do the right thing in sending your old undershirts? Or did you want page 2 me to buy "T"-shirts or something different? It’s been raining all day today. Ronnie and I went down to pay that $5 for Collier’s renewal, then went to the A&P to get a box to mail your clothes in. Then came back to pack ’em, and then out again to mail it at the post office. Also stopped in at Hayes’ to get "Tippy", which he had left there a couple of weeks ago. Joan was home alone, so I didn’t stay long. When we came back, I made beef stew for dinner (was real tasty too) and jello with banana, peaches and whipped cream. S’pose you had a better dinner than that, huh? Guess I should be in the Army. Page 3. After dinner tonight, Ronnie, Elinor, and I had a big time. We were all jitterbug dancing. Ronnie sure is catching on. We also (all of us) chased each other (Judy, too, barking and so on) around the room in a circle. Good thing our tenants were out, or they’d have moved at once. When Ronnie was saying his prayers tonight, he said "God bless Daddy" all three times instead of including Elinor and Mommy. I wish you could hear him. Can almost say the whole prayer by heart. Page 4. Ronnie eats practically everything all by himself now. Eats plenty, too. He’s going to grow up and be a 1-A like Daddy. I bought some of that powdered rug cleaner and will try it out tomorrow. Hope it works. Got an electric bill today, it was $5.89, I think. This was from January 28th to February 28th. Wonder what the next one will be. I tried to find out how much that phone call you made cost, but they told me they hadn’t received the data on it from Florida. You could have found out if you had recalled the operator right after you called. I did find out that Page 5. a five-minute call from Jacksonville is $2.80, plus 20% fed. tax, which makes it $3.36, plus the extra 42 mi. to Camp Blending. If you had called after 7:00 PM it would be cheaper. Now, since Mar. 1st it’s cheaper after 6:00 p.m. for the benefit of servicemen who make most of their calls between 6:00 and 7:00 PM. I found out where I can get a driver’s license without an exam, but I’ll have to pay $3.00 for it. Rena got hers that way, and will take me to this friend of hers to get it. You know Hal (Elsie’s love)? He’s working in Aideron again Page 6. now, and Rena told me he and Elsie eat together every day at the cafeteria heads close together, and so on. But he has gone back to his wife and child. Imagine? After telling me he never had seen his child and so on. I can’t help feeling that seeing Ronnie and you and I together, it gave him a feeling that he wanted to see it and so on and that’s how they got together. Of course, it may be that Hal won’t go out with Elsie now since he went back to his wife and if he still does go out with her, she must know it won’t do her any good as long as he went back to his wife when he could Page 7 have had Elsie. She sure gets herself involved. She’s still engaged to Harney tho. I guess that makes her feel better about going with a married man. I don’t know. Honey, don’t you think that’s an awful chance to take, my driving to Florida by myself? I don’t think I’d dare. Couldn’t I come down by train a couple weeks before you leave, and you could still take the extra time allowed for driving and take the train home with Ronnie and I? I’d take a chance driving by myself maybe, but I’d hate page 8 to be responsible for Ronnie too if I had an accident. I’ve been thinking of driving to Rockford but haven’t gotten up the nerve yet. I think if I get my driver’s license next week, I’ll try to go to Rkfd the next weekend. I’ll let you know if I decide to. I got a letter from Chuck and Betty asking me to come in soon as they have the guest room finished now. She said they painted the bathroom last week. Well, honey, it is now 12:30 and Elinor is making a snack to eat before going to bed. So good night, darling, and here’s a nice kiss to sleep on. I love you, Ronnie and Mommy . ...

04 Mar March 4, 1944

Posted at 14:16h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. Alyce Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 4th, 1944. Sat. 1:00 AM [technically Sunday March 5th] Hello, honey, Here I am after a gay evening at the theater with Eleanor as escort. We went to the Capitol and saw "Squadron Leader X" and "Princess O’Rourke". They were both pretty good. Tonight was the first night out of the house in two weeks. After reading your letter that you wanted me to get out once in a while, I decided I’d go to a show. We also had a hamburger, coffee, and sundae after the show. This was our dinner as we had only breakfast and lunch at home. page two. I was going to call June, but Mrs. Page said she’d be home all evening and would look in on Ronnie once in a while. She said he slept all evening thru without a murmur, I saved a dollar by not having June, too. Been cleaning house today, and in the middle of it, Galassini came in, also Murray. Gene stayed for a while. I mentioned I was in the middle of the housecleaning, or he might have stayed longer. Both Murray and Gene said they were going to drop you a line. Hope they do. Gene didn’t say a word about Beale, or the house we told him about, and so on. Page three. Elinor took Ronnie out for a walk to the drugstore this afternoon. We’ve had a regular blizzard today. Woke up this morning and looked out, and it had been snowing all night, I guess, and continued all day with a strong East wind. The temperatures about 20 degrees. Oh, me. Where is Florida? Not only that, but Elinor has cold feet. She just can’t seem to keep me warm. Who will I call to fix our electric pump? The basement is continually full of water in a circle about 10 feet in page four. diameter. We’re getting a lot of little garbage flies in the house, and I think they’re from that sewer water backing up in the basement all the time. I start the pump going by pulling that little what’s it but the next time I go down, the water is all back in the basement and smells awful. Should I call the plumber or electrician? Did I tell you that the Pages had their living room and hall and woodwork and doors painted? The walls are a dark ivory, woodwork and doors off-white. Must have cost them at least $50, because I asked the painter they had how much Page five. he wanted to paint my kitchen, and he said $30 just for the walls and ceiling. So I decided to let it ride until I make a fortune. Guess I’ll wash it, and let it go at that. I’d rather get slipcovers for the Davenport if I ever have any extra money. Didn’t get a letter today, boo-hoo. Guess my sweetheart doesn’t love me anymore. I certainly live for the mailman’s visit now-a- days. I forgot to tell you that I received two identical letters from the government to page six send them "proof of marriage". Last night I went down to the Rev. Dack, and he said he’d make an affidavit for me with the church seal on it, which should be OK. He still claims that same get-by-with "copies" like you sent in, but others don’t. I guess it has to be a photostatic copy, tho. I was s’posed to pick this affidavit up this morning, but the weather was so bad I didn’t dare take the car. Tonight, we used Elinor’s car for the trip to the show. Ronnie and I are still waiting for a picture of Daddy in uniform, but I s’pose you page seven. can’t get one until you get out of quarantine, but make it one of your first stops, won’t you? Be sure it’s an 8X10 photo so I can put it on the other side of the mantle opposite my photo. Just send the picture. I’ll get the frame. Have you been behaving, honey? Are there any WACs there? I’m not really worried, but nothing like warning you anyway. I’m getting awfully sleepy as it’s now 2:00 a.m. I guess I’ll turn in and goodnight Page eight. dear, and sleep tight and try to pretend I’m right there and Ronnie in his crib beside you. Guess we didn’t really appreciate how nice it was to be together at the time, but sure wish you were with us now. Always love and kisses, Alyce and Ronnie ...

04 Mar March 4, 1944

Posted at 17:02h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-4-44 4:30 P.M. Sat. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Well 4:30 P.M. and I guess this week is finally over. We have been going every day practically every minute this week up until right now. And then the first thing I do is write you so you see how you must rate. Tried to call you Thursday evening but operators said there would be a three-hour wait. So [I] decided to postpone it until next week when I hope to have a little more time. It is practically impossible to call from here over the week-end. Those who do have to wait 5 to 8 hrs for a call to get thru up north. Just got and read your letter bawling me out for me bawling you out for not writing me. Of course I see that I was very much too hasty in my criticism and am very sorry. However, page 2 the reason they were held up was because you had failed to put Co. "D" on them and I guess they floated around camp for a few days. You know this camp only covers 125,000 acres of ground, not counting the lake in the center, and can accommodate 100,000 men. They claim there are 80,000 here right now. So you see the Co "D" is very important. I broke my glasses yesterday and am sending them home so you can take them up to Dr. Busch and have the prescription filled. I could get glasses here but in order to do it we have to go on "sick call" which means a day lost plus turning in all equipment. We have to make up all lost time on our own time. So far my record is clean. We all got three shots all at once about 2 P.M. today and right now I have a pretty sore arm. No other effects as yet. Last nite we had a G.I. party. A G.I. party here means page 3 scrub, clean, scrub and clean some more. It happens every Friday nite after chow. And we didn’t finish until after 11 P.M. Then on Sat. A.M. we have inspections by Co. Commander. Our hut must have been pretty good as we didn’t catch any hell. Some of the rest did plenty. There are 14 huts in this co. I am in No. 12. We had gas mask drills yesterday. If you think I look funny you should see me in a gas mask. We also had pitching tent drills. My partner and I was [were] among the first ten completed when we were timed. We did it in about 4 1/2 min. if you think we did any standing around you should try putting up a "pup" tent in less than 5 minutes sometime. page 4 We still take a guerilla exercises every day and I am just now getting so I can walk and get up and down without it almost killing me. So far I have never dropped out and that’s a hell of a lot more than a lot of the rest of them can say. While I think of it, I wish you would send me that small tube of pencil leads I used for my eversharp pencil. It is either in my top drawer or was in one of my suit coat pockets. Oh yes, I got the shoe shining equip.[,] thanks -- but you were a couple days late as I had to buy one just like that (65 cents) a couple days ago. We shine shoes all day long here - then go right out and march them through six inches of sand and come back in and shine them all over again. Got a letter from Vita Campbell page 5 this morning. If you see her, tell her thanks, and I will try to answer it at the first opportunity. It certainly gives a person a nice feeling down here to receive letters, even though they are not all from one’s wife. Of course they are the best. [I] Plan on going to a show tonite. Tomorrow I think I will just rest. Or spend the day dreaming. We can always clean, if it isn’t our laundry, our rifle, our hut, they find something for us to clean. However, I have been very fortunate. No detail work all week and no K.P. I will get K.P. this week though, as they take them alphabetically, page 6 if they don’t have enough violators, and they are now working on the R’s. Have not used the radio yet as there are no "female plugs" here and so far have been unable to buy any. They just don’t seem to be had in this place. May have to wait until I can get out to buy one. Well darling, I hope Ronnie and the home responsibilities isn’t getting you down too much. I know it’s pretty tough, but I also know that you can do it and well. And that you are doing a good job too. As for junior, what do you mean you don’t know? It’s either yes or know [no] by this time - surely. Ronnie, you still remember Daddy a little bit, do you? I am sure glad because I’d hate to come home and have you think your old man was a stranger - time for chow. So bye now and I love you both. Would send more letters air mail but the post office is one mile away and I’ve only been there once. Daddy ...

05 Mar March 5, 1944

Posted at 12:48h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to Private George W. Shonkwiler March 5th, 1944. Sunday night, 9:35 p.m. Wes Dear, Ronnie’s in bed after an exciting day. Mr. Page played football with him this afternoon, then he had his nap, then Mary came over and stayed about an hour, then dinner, and Marge came in and played with him awhile. He took the red ribbon off his elephant and wanted it put in his hair, so he was a little girl tonight. (We were saying page 2 "Bet Wes wouldn’t like that". I also had him out before dinner on his sled. Pulled him all over and we also took a walk for a couple blocks. We had a pretty good dinner today. I made baked Swiss steak and browned whole potatoes, and I also baked fudge cake with nuts. We’re going to have another piece of cake before we go to bed. Mary had the nerve to ask me point blank how much rent we were getting for the upstairs. I told her, but I wished I hadn’t, as all she’ll do is tell Hayes and it’s none of their business. Page 3. Henry Jostis called and asked how you were and also got your address. Said he was going to drop you a line. Marge told me tonight they’re having slipcovers made at Weibolts for their Davenport. She’s paying $2.00 per yard for material, (it takes about 15 yards or more), plus labor charge. Guess if I make some for mine, they’ll look pretty poor in comparison. I’m going down the loop tomorrow night to find some material, only not $2.00 per yard. page 4 Well, honey, can’t think of anything else to write about, as it seems nothing ever happens to me. Tomorrow night after work, I’m going with Rena to see about getting a driver’s license so I won’t have to be scared stiff every time a policeman looks at me. It’s an awful feeling. Guess I’ll never commit any crimes, because now I know how it feels to do something illegal. Miss me anymore, darling, or is your life too exciting? Bye, and heaps of love from Mommy and Ronnie ...

06 Mar March 6, 1944

Posted at 17:15h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 6, 1944 Mon. 10:45 P.M. Dearest, Just came back from the loop. I bought some material for slipcovers for the davenport. Cost me about $10.00. I’m going to make them myself, wish me luck. This morning I got that affidavit from Rev. Dack and sent it in. I also went down to pay for the Tribune. Did you know we owed $8.70? I also got a 6 mo. subscription for you at $2.50. It’s servicemen’s special. If you get page 2 transferred all you have to do is drop them a card and they’ll send it to your new address, even overseas. But you have to take it for 6 mo. and it does not include the Sunday issues. I can get it for you on Sundays too for $1.90 extra for 3 mo. or $3.80 extra for 6 mo. There is no servicemen’s price on Sunday issues. Let me know if you want it on Sundays too. Anyway I spent $11.64 for the Tribune today and $10 for material. Money is sure going fast, as I also spent $7 or $8 on your stuff the other day. I’m sending your clothes to the cleaners tomorrow and having page 3 them sealed in moth-proof bags which will also cost several dollars. At this rate I’ll never get down to Florida to see you, as I should be saving some money for it. Haven’t paid electric bill yet and haven’t rec’d the gas or phone bills as yet either - oh me! How is your money holding out? Did you get paid yet? Ronnie was out in the car with me twice today and does he love to ride! Weather was terrible tho, as it was snowing all week-end and on top of snow and ice, it rained today. Was page 4 pretty slippery driving, but I made it O.K. I went down with Rena to get my driver’s license, but he was too busy with income tax customers. Told me to come back the 16th and he’d get it for me. Ronnie is such a good boy. Elinor just marveles at how sweet he is. I’m getting jealous, they play and dance and have so much fun. But when it comes to Mommy going away without him he won’t let me go without a fuss, so guess he still loves me. Elinor did dishes and put him to bed tonite, while I went downtown, so she’s sort of nice to have around. Page 5 Things are running a lot smoother than I had even dared hope, as far as all of us getting along etc. If I only had my "daddy" here when I get blue and loansome, everything would be O.K. Even sitting reading on the davenport doesn’t seem like it should, as you’re not here for me to "cuddle up" to. The wind is blowing outside and the temperature is going down to 10 or 12 degrees by midnite they say. Aren’t you glad you’re in a warm climate? Speaking of damp clothes in the morning, that’s just the page 6 way it was in California when I was there, My bones always felt achy when I got out of bed in the morning from the dampness. Are you having any rain? Or is this the rainy season in Florida? It is in Calif. about this time of year. Murray said he wrote you a letter last nite. You should feel flattered, because I guess he hasn’t written anything but post-cards to anyone in years. Well, honey, outside of the fact that both Ronnie and I wish we were with you every minute, I haven’t much more to say, so, bye, now and don’t drink too much of that "coffee." Bye, Love always and forever, Mom and Ronnie. ...

06 Mar March 6, 1944

Posted at 16:59h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-5-44, 6 P.M. Sunday Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another weekend is just about gone and although they are the worst as far as getting lonesome is concerned, are still not something long enough to do all things that should be done. I have been trying to write to some of the people I should let know where I am (they all get cards only), wash clothes, saw a couple shows, shine shoes, etc. Shows down here last just two hrs. They show a picture, and that’s all. Saw Balida in "[Lady,] Let’s Dance" last night on Fair. And this afternoon saw [the movie] "Private Hargrove." That’s pretty good and if you can see it you will get a pretty good idea of what I am going through. I am not like Private Hargrove though. However, we do have a lad in our hut who gets in just as page 2 much trouble and is picked on by the "non-coms" just as much. It’s raining hard here now. The first rain we have had since arriving here certainly is refreshing. Now for a day or two we will only sink in the sand a couple three inches instead of six when we march. Have you had the Tribune sent to me yet? I certainly miss it as we get no newspapers here at all. And very seldom get a chance to listen to a radio. When you get a chance you can send me about a half dozen clothes pins too. The wind is continually blowing my nice, clean clothes on the dirty ground. Then I have all my hard work to do over. I think I told you we got those shots in the left arm at once yesterday afternoon. Well it page 3 didn’t bother me much until late in the evening but by 1 A.M. today I was feeling it plenty both in my arm and in my stomach. I had stomach cramps bad for about two hrs. Didn’t give a damn whether I lived or not. Finally, went to sleep about 3 A.M. and today I don’t feel so very bad. All the boys in our hut were affected in one way or another. If you ask me, three of those damn things at once is just too many. The worst of it is we have to go through the same thing again next Sat. If I survive that, I guess that will be all for a while, I hope. Oh yes, I hope you haven’t forgotten sending me my powders. Don’t think I would [wouldn’t] have gotten through the nite last nite, if I hadn’t had a couple left. page 4 This coming week our schedule is more guerrilla exercises, <? diswounted> rifle drill, marching, hand grenade practice, and a bunch of movies. Oh yes, and I am here for KP too for sure this week. I don’t think I will mind the KP so much but we have to make up all the classes we miss on our own time and that really hurts. So if the letters come few and far between this week that will be one of the biggest reasons, I imagine. I have [been] picked mailman for our hut. And it doesn’t sit so well to get letters for all the other guys and not get one myself - so take heed. Today, for instance I got about 30 letters but not one for me. What did you think about my suggestion of you driving down here in a couple of months.[?] There is no hurry yet but understand if we are to get reservations have to ast [ask] a month or two in advance. Nighty night Ronnie and Mommy too, and I miss you both lots, Wes ...

07 Mar March 7, 1944

Posted at 14:53h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-7-44, 9:15 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Well at last this long day is over. These last two days have been the worst yet. I think yesterday none of us were over our shots 100% so to get us back to par I think they gave us an extra dose of everything. Then to see that we didn’t have any time to ourselves after we were supposedly all through last nite[,] they ordered rifle inspections, and gave us 1/2 hour to clean our rifles and prepare for it, during which time we weren’t allowed off the Co. area. Then at 9:30 P.M. they came around and called it off. We had worked like hell cleaning those damn rifles for nothing. Then today all day long it has rained and rained hard. But that doesn’t stop the Army. We went through our page 2 regular routine plus and [an] extra hour of close order drills plus hand grenade practice and extended order drill. We wore raincoats but after 12 hours in the rain they became poor protection from rain and cold. On top of all that[,] at lunch, dinner and after finishing our two one-hour classes tonite we had to take our rifles down clean them and oil them. They claim it has to be done so often in this kind of weather because everything rusts so fast here. Anyhow I hope we don’t have many more days like this one. We finally got a plug for the radio and it is a godsend. The whole gang are in the hut now cleaning rifles, writing letters and listening to it. Someone turned George Burns and Gracie Allen on and that’s what we are listening to. Personally I think they stink but the rest of them seem to be enjoying it so I guess that’s what counts. page 3 Anything is better than nothing which is what we were getting used to. Last nite one of the fellow’s relatives sent him a pack of oranges and a box of candy and cookies. Boy you should have seen that stuff vanish. We get 1 orange a week here and practically no other fruit. It certainly tasted good. I had two oranges and my fill of candy and cookies. I didn’t receive any mail today - you’re slipping - but did get a package slip. But had no opportunity to go get it and doubt if I will be able to tomorrow either as we have nite classes tomorrow too. Glad to hear you can get a driver’s license. As for driving down here, that’s up to you. I know it would be quite a trip page 4 with considerable risk[,] but you see if I don’t have a car here when I am shipped out[,] I have to take the troop train out of here. If your wife is here she goes home on another train. But if you have a car here with or without your wife[,] you are allowed driving time and so much a mile and can take your own car home. Why they have to do it that way is a mystery to me too but I have learned that when you are in the army you do it the army way. So you see you could come down in a train but you would have to go back by yourself. But if you drove down we could go back together in the car. Providing, of course, it is possible to get enough gas. As for coming down here before then - on a train after my six weeks basic is over they say we have it a lot nicer here and have a little more time, so maybe after that then, if you can find the money, maybe I can page 5 find a place for you and Ronnie to stay for a few days. I understand we are allowed passes this week but because I am kinda low on money and have no great yearning to go any place around here anyway[,] don’t think I will take advantage of it. We must be pretty good company because they are giving us passes one week ahead of the usual time. Got a card from Forest saying he would get a 9 day furrow Mar 16th. Crtainly is a break. What I wouldn’t do with 9 days vacation right now. So Ronnie, you are growing up fast and are doing things in a big way. That’s fine and keep up the good work. Sure wished I could see page 6 you and Mommy. Well it’s 9:45 P.M. and past time for "lights out" so had better hurry and get this over and mailed. Daddy ...

08 Mar March 8, 1944

Posted at 14:44h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar. 8th, 1944 Wed. 10:05 P.M. Hello, honey, Guess I must have misunderstood the operator today, as I thought she said you were going to call at 9:00 P.M. tonite. I’ve been waiting here all evening all set to hear the phone ring, but as yet no sound whatsoever. I even kept Ronnie up until a little while ago when I put him to bed, as he was getting so sleepy. He’s been teasing Judy all evening. First fighting with her over the rubber mouse, then by sitting on her, then when she page 2 finally got away and was asleep on a chair, he started piling all his books on top of her. (S’cuse me, I have to let Judy out.) At 9:30 I gave him a bath and off to bed after kissing Daddy’s picture and saying his prayers. He started and ended with, "God bless Daddy." He looks so cute and instead of looking sober he gets that mischievous glint in his eye, while he’s saying his prayer. Edith dropped in for a minute yesterday to see Ronnie and asked about you etc. Said she was going to write you a letter and enclose it with mine sometime. (Can’t afford her own postage, I guess.) Really hit the jackpot today, as I got two letters that page 3 you wrote last Sat. and Sun., also, your glasses. Was so excited opening it, thinking you had sent me something. Was I disappointed? -- Oh me! I did get a package today tho from your sister, Norma. A pair of summer pajamas with two prs. of pants (blue with a teddy bear applique on the left side of the top.) She also sent me a hand-crocheted doily. Tan lace, and about 24" diameter. Very pretty. The pajamas of course were for Ronnie’s birthday. Wonder what happened to the overalls Gladys got for Ronnie’s birthday that were too small. Maybe she got page 4 mad ’cause we teased her about it. You asked again in your letter about my [auto] trip to Florida. Honey, I don’t think I dare with a little guy like Ronnie. If I should get into any trouble you or I would never forgive ourselves. I can and will come down by train tho, if possible. How soon would you want me to come? And how long do you want me to stay? Where would I stay? In Jacksonville? Or nearer the camp? I have the address of a tourist home in Jacksonville that I could write to, and it would be cheaper than in a hotel. Of course if I could get a two-room apartment or something it would be better, as I’d like to page 5 have a place to feed Ronnie. Might be possible I could get a place at Jacksonville Beach. Do you have any better ideas? You said in your letter the reason you didn’t get my first letters was because I neglected to put the Co. "D" on it. I’ll have you know that the address you gave me over the phone didn’t have Co. "D" in it and I can prove it by Murray, as I still have the slip of paper that Murray and I wrote it on when you gave it to us over the phone. The reason I added the Co. "D" later is because of your return address on your page 6 letters. -- So there too!! You’re still holding the bag. It’s 11:45 P.M. and still no call from Daddy! [The] Suspense is terrible! Elinor just came home from bowling and went to bed. It was her birthday (26th) yesterday, altho she didn’t tell me till suppertime. So I baked a cake at 8:30 and we had some at 10:00 o’clock last nite. It was white cake with chocolate filling and white frosting with yellow and green fanciwork. (My artistic ability you know!) I even put 6 candles on it. (She had to imagine the other 20.) Tomorrow, guess I’ll fix the income tax and send it. page 7 Hope I get it all copied O.K. I hope as well as you, that Ronnie won’t forget his Daddy, altho I always talk to him about Daddy and give him your picture to kiss noon and night. I also told him to be a good boy and he could talk to daddy on the phone, but guess he won’t believe me anymore, as Daddy didn’t call. I even read your letters to him and then he proudly carries a sheet or two around with him pretending to read it and saying, "daddy’s letter" and if I try to take it away he cries and says "Ronnie’s letter." I had him out in the back- page 8 yard today playing football with him. It’s so cold and windy tho that we didn’t stay out long. All day long he keeps say[ing], "cold outside, awful cold outside" and looks out the window. I almost finished the davenport slip covers yesterday. They look pretty nice! They’re striped brown, tan and rust and peach color. I’ll finish them tomorrow, I hope! Will send you the clothes-pins and shoe trees as soon as I can. Did you get the box of clothes etc. yet? Good nite, Sweetheart and sweet dreams (of me?) Miss you more every day. Love, Mommy and Ronnie ...

09 Mar March 9, 1944

Posted at 17:30h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar. 9, 1944 8:30 P.M. (Thurs.) Darling, It’s 8:30 and I’m waiting again for that call I thought I’d get last nite. Yesterday I took the stove apart and cleaned it, even took the oven bottom out and scrubbed it. Today I finished the Davenport covers. They look pretty nice too. Hope they stay clean until you see ’em. That would be a miracle, so I won’t even think about it. I’m not bragging, but they look just as nice as any I’ve seen. Oralee told me of a place to have your clothes cleaned page 2 and stored. You pay for cleaning and for storage the first year, then they store them free after that for the duration as a favor to servicemen. She sent all of Fred’s clothes there. I’m going to call them tomorrow. And the bill doesn’t have to be paid until you take them out. Pretty nice, huh? We certainly had an indigestible meal tonight. So far I haven’t felt any ill effects, however. We had fried boneless pike, French fried potatoes, buttered peas, lettuce and tomato salad, cake and ice cream and coffee. Doesn’t even sound good to you, does it? page 3 It really was good tho! Ronnie is now going to embark on a circus career. He piles the chairs and hassock on top of the footstool, then on top of that his books and then both his elephants. When he got all this stacked up tonite, he tried to make Judy jump up on top of the elephants. He even put a chair beside it and said, "get up there, Judy," but she wouldn’t budge. Something new all the time - never a dull moment. Before going to bed now page4 he isn’t content to have you read Mommy Dear or Big Bad Wolf, oh no[,] he has to have every one of his six books read to him. What a life! Wear’s both Elinor and I out? -- What will he be when he grows up? Have you received the Tribune yet? Let me know if you do or don’t. Oralee might ride down to Florida with me if I go. Her folks are there you know. She could take the train back. Of course it’s only an idea, but a good one. Well, honey, bye, again and wish you were here so I could hug you tight and Ronnie could hug you tight. - mmm All our love, Mommy and Ronnie. P.S. I sent you clothes pins, shoe trees, and leads today. Hope you get them. ...

09 Mar March 9, 1944

Posted at 14:29h in Letters

Card from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 9, 1944 (cover page) Soldier Hello there soldier I’m saving something for you and that’s a true confession {Center page) P.S. And if you think it’s this --> (showing a picture of a kiss) You’ve got the right impression Mommy and Ronnie (over) (Back page) Darling, How do you like the "imprints?" Cute, don’t you think? Had a tough time getting Ronnie’s, he’s not used to the finer lipstick art (except second hand from the girls). I’m waiting patiently for your call tonite at 9:00 o’clock. I’ve mailed you a Pkg. Hope you like ’em. I also went down this afternoon with your glasses. He’s rushing ’em, but I still won’t get ’em until Sat, which should get them to you next week sometime. People upstairs bought a new rug today, Colonial Pattern like our dining room rug, also [a] card table set. It really looks darling up there now. Elinor is going bowling right now and will mail this, so bye, honey. Ronnie and I miss you terribly. Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

09 Mar March 9, 1944

Posted at 14:54h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-9-44, 9:20 PM. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Kinda late to be starting a letter but I had no chance at all yesterday and won’t have tomorrow. So it’s now or never for two days. Today my KP duty started. I am through at 6:30 PM tomorrow. Then after that our little scrubbing duty until 11 P.M. So tomorrow is going to be another big day. However, that is rapidly getting to be the usual thing. Last nite classes were over at 8:30 P.M. Just before dismissal about 30 of us were told to report to some officer who interviewed us for about 5 minutes individually alphabetically. Which meant that I was interviewed at 10:15. page 2 I had placed a telephone call to you earlier in the day for 9 P.M. I don’t know what happened to it because I didn’t have a chance to get away. None of us know what the interview was for. You never know anything in the army. He asked the same things we have all been asked about [a] dozen times already. Today I was relieved of my asst squad leader duties. We learned that we are given a week’s trial a piece. Then after everyone is given a chance[,] they pick the squad leader who will be in charge the rest of the cycle. It seems a fair way to do it. Finally got the package and everything was swell also the candy. I can use every bit of it. Also got a very nice letter from Murray. And it if [if it] hadn’t been for his I would have drawn a blank for today. Have to stop now[,] lights out. Love to you both, Wes ...

10 Mar March 10, 1944

Posted at 17:27h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Mr. George W. Shonkwiler March 10, 1944, 10:30pm Dearest Wes, Here it is Friday nite and the moon is shining brightly (which means continued cold, by the way) and Elinor and I are getting our romance by listening to the radio and reading books - oh me, how I wish you were here just to kiss me and tell me you love me, etc. Not very much to ask for, but still impossible. I’m worried about not hearing from you on the phone, especially after the operator told page 2 me you were going to call last Wednesday night. Elinor asked me to go to the show with her tonite, but I refused, thinking I might miss your call. Didn’t do much today that is exciting to write about. I washed clothes all morning until 1:00 P.M. and ironed until supper and continued again until 10:00 o’clock tonite. This morning at 10:30 A.M. I took time off to go out and play football with Ronnie in the backyard. He won’t go out alone to play anymore, says, "it’s too cold." It’s not too cold when I go with him, tho. page 3 He sure knows all the alibi’s for not doing things, now. Ever since you left tho, he cries terribly when I leave the house without him. Guess he’s still afraid I’ll disappear like you did. Do you s’pose he’s figured that out? I’ve only been to the show twice since you left, so he’s so used to my taking him with me whenever I go, that that’s probably it, too. We get such a big kick out of him when Elinor’s home, ’cause he goes up to her, pulls her hand, and says, "Come on, Elinor, page 4 let’s dance." He’s getting to be quite a jitterbug. Elinor thinks he’s getting fatter lately. He certainly has nice rosy cheeks. Picture of health! Murray stopped in tonight at about 6:30, looking for Marge. He was starved and she wasn’t home, so he thought she might be here. He said he went thru Mc Namara’s x-ray file and came across your x-rays. He said he remembered you saying Mc Namara didn’t have any x-rays of you, or something. He says the the Supt. of the TB Santarium <? aut> home wants to see his x-rays and if page 5 his lungs haven’t changed since 4 or 5 yrs. ago, he’s going to try to help Murray get in the Navy. Sounds like he really wants to get in, now. Guess when you can’t do something, you want to all the more. I think it’d be a good experience for him, especially if he got in the Army as a private. He needs a little roughing up to shake him out of his complacency, or something. Guess you know what I mean. He was telling Elinor today that he’d like to live in an Apt. Hotel where he wouldn’t have to page 6 exert himself, just ring a bell when he wanted this or that done. I just can’t help hoping he’ll get in the Army. Am I wicked? I even think Judy misses you. Seems she looks so sad and is always watching the door now-a-days. A Mr. Novak called the other day. Said he was from 120th St. (is that Smith’s?) Wondered if I [you?] still lived here, as he said he had mailed a $10.00 commission check here for you, but it was returned to him. Said he would mail it out again in my name, and I could forward it to page 7 you. Do you know what he’s talking about? I called this place Oralee told me about where they store servicemen’s clothes free after the first year (which you pay for), but of course they’ve discontinued it, so I’m out of luck. I’m still sending them to be cleaned and stored anyway, tho, as the war should be over in a yr. anyway (I hope.) Neither cleaning or storage has to be paid until you get them out of storage, so we’ll worry about that expense then. It’s $1.00 for storage per garment for page 8 a year’s storage, plus cleaning charges of course. Elinore and I are both yawning, but just won’t give up and go to bed. It’s been pretty cold here. Was about 15 to 18 degrees today, will be 30 degrees tonite and possibly 50 degrees tomorrow, but snow again tomorrow nite. Guess Ronnie can go sledding again Sunday. Mrs. Page brought me a book from the Palmer House book shoppe last nite. It is "Dragonwyck" by Anya Seton. She told me I could read it. Quite a break as it cost $2.50. Goodnite, honey, and take good care of yourself, you belong to me. Lots of Love, Mommy and Ronnie ...

11 Mar March 11, 1944

Posted at 17:25h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 11, 1944 1 A.M., (or is it March 12?) Hello, Wes, Here I am again sitting on the Davenport writing my sweetie pie again. We (Eleanor and I, if you’re in doubt!) just came home from the Parkway Theater where we saw [the show] "Guadalcanal Diary" and "My Kingdom for a Cook." They were both good, especially the first. It really shows action. Gave me shivers up and down my spine. I hope and pray you never have to go overseas. I went down to pick up your glasses this afternoon, but they page 2 were still working on ’em. He told me to come back after 7:00 and he said he’d pack them for mailing for me. I picked them up tonite, but couldn’t send them airmail, as the airmail weighing over 1 ounce has to be opened and inspected at the Postoffice. But I sent them regular mail, Spec. Delivery, as otherwise I couldn’t have sent them until Mon. morning and that would take longer than regular mail. Hope you get them soon, as I know you’re lost without ’em. Dr. Bush recommended you get a pair with plastic frames for camp wear. Let me know if you want them made up. page 3 I was part of a searching party for Bobby Dixon today. About 12:00 o’clock Mrs. Dixon came over and asked if Bobby was here and I said "no." She said he’d been gone for 1/2 an hour with his tricycle and she and Dim and her dad had looked all over for him, so I went out too. She called the squad car and when Dim (her husband) finally found Bobby at 1:30 he was playing with some kids at 113th and Wentworth. Imagine? Crossing all those streets and train tracks. Wish I could be so nonchalant. (No I don’t either) She lets him out to roam around all over without watching him. She page 4 claims she was away from the window for only 5 min., but I don’t believe it. After all a 3 yr. old doesn’t have sense enuf to stay home. I guess they really gave him a "blistering" too. I think they should have had one. Don’t you? I put Ronnie to bed tonite before June came, but he saw me take my coat out of the bedroom closet and he started to bawl. I had to put him to bed in the big bed and lay down with him until he went to sleep. He’s getting as bad about letting me out of the house as Joyce is with Gladys and Dick. Don’t know what I can do, do you? He just won’t let page 5 me out of his sight anymore. Even if I leave the room, or go out to empty garbage, he starts to pout and says, "Where are you going, Mommy?" The other day he says, " Where’s Daddy?" and we said, "Daddy’s in the Army" and he said, "Daddy’s in Army?" I got the gas bill today, $28.06, and it’s from Feb. 1st to Mar. 2nd. Telephone bill is $6.16 (and does not even include, Florida collect call.) Of course $1.50 was for moving the telephone from bedroom to dining room. Electric bill is $5.76, but this is an averaged bill, as page 6 [the] meter was not read and will be added on to next bill. S’pose it’ll be ten bucks next time. The Pages are having 8 for dinner tonite, so guess we’ll really hear a lot of noise tomorrow. Well I’m falling asleep, and Elinor has gone to sleep in the big chair, so guess I’ll have to close now. We went to Ingledook after the show, but didn’t get any service, so we went home and had some coffee and cake. Elinor has gained 4 lbs (weighs 112 now) since coming to live with me, and I’ve gone up to 114 myself. Hope I don’t get fat - Oh dear! Then my honey won’t love me anymore. Bye and lots of love, Mom and Ronnie P.S. Eleanor says hi and June felt bad that she couldn’t say goodbye to you before you left even her grandma asked about you the other day. Are you popular? ...

11 Mar March 11, 1944

Posted at 14:57h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-11-44, 5:15 P.M. Sat. Noteworthry: Dad is attached to the Message Center company. Dad feels great from his boot camp physical exertions. Dad wants to know about Junior. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another week’s finally over and what a week. I finished about 1/2 hour ago and there has been little free moments from last Monday A.M. until now. Yesterday all day K.P. 5 A.M. to 6:30 P.M. Then we scrubbed [our] hut, and cleaned our rifle[s] until 11 P.M. Then bed and damn glad of it. Today it has been raining - and raining hard all day. And it’s still at it. This is the world’s worst weather and country - especially when it rains like now. [I] had planned on seeing a show tonite but I have been soaked twice and I’m not especially keen about getting it again today. (Chow 6 P.M.) And it’s still pouring down. This page 2 morning we had dismounted drill with rifles in the rain - guerrilla exercises in the rain - then rifle inspections (was supposed to have been outside also, but the officers did not want to get wet so they gave us a break and we had it inside) then chow and this afternoon another shot in the arm - make up classes and I had another interview with a regiment officer about something they must be planning for me. I have a general idea of what but must refrain from discussing it until after the war. I can’t even tell the other fellows here and they are all inquisitive as hell (when you write say nothing). Next week I understand we are in for another busy time - Two days we are going to be on rifle range from 4 A.M. to 10 P.M. And they no doubt will find plenty for us to do the other four days. I believe they keep us so busy so we can’t page 3 have time to sit around too much worrying about home and wife and children. If that is why, they are partially succeeding because most of the fellows are either too tired or too busy to read their letters until sometime after they are distributed. Personally, physically, I haven’t felt better for a long time as most of my stiffness and soreness has vanished. And when I lay off of the coffee my stomach doesn’t bother me much. My itch is a little worse than it was when I left Chicago, but doesn’t bother me except a little at nite. I am convinced neither one is bad enough to get me released from the Army. For that reason I am more than ever glad I am in this company (Message Center) as we are the pick of the infantry both in page 4 Intelligence and the type work we have to do as long as we have to be in the army. (That’s straight from the Company Commander himself.) Did you mean Oralee would drive down here with you in June? I hope that’s what you meant because it certainly would be nice - in more ways than one. As for coming down here sooner, that’s alright too. After a while I will get out and scout around and see what I can find in a place for you and Ronnie to stay. I would like to have you stay in Stark (about 8 miles from camp) rather than Jacksonville as we are not allowed off the grounds except on week-ends. But wives can come in after 6 P.M. They can also stay within the grounds 3 nites with their husbands. They have special rooms for that purpose. How about the gas - you had better hold on to the "C" coupons. page 5 We were allowed 9 passes out of our hut over the week-end, but the weather is so bad only 3 boys are taking advantages of it. So you know the weather must be bad as most of these fellows haven’t been out of this small area for a month or more. Got a letter from Claude today. Admitted Jo was having another in June and his 2A class restriction was up July 18th. Also a letter from Paul Smith. He feels pretty low[,] Gitta, his wife, died from a heart attack during her operation. However, his children are old enough to help him over the hard spots a little. As you know, I can fully appreciate the consolation one can get from one’s children. By the page 6 way, I want a definite statement from you about "Junior." No more beating around the bush. Our "Private Hargrove" in our hut is sounding off right now. I think if it weren’t for him this hut’s morale would be pretty low at times. No kidding. He is the naturalist, comicalist, getting in troubleist, man I ever saw or hoped to see. Every man and officer in the entire company know him. His name is Sams and we can hear "Sams" yelled all over the area from morning to nite He really is a damn nice fellow. Thirty years old married and has one child with another on the way. His father is a small time Methodist minister (by his own admission) and "Sams" has picked up a lot of Georgia’s homespun intelligence and humor from traveling around the country with him. It is now 7 P.M. and still raining hard - No show for me tonite. page 7 Here’s a typical "Sams" joke. It seems two very young people came up to the minister to get married and the minister questioned the girl about her age. Then he asked her if she had her father’s permission. She said, "Sir, who do you think that man back there with the rifle is?" Of course I know that’s an old one but the way he tells them and the number and his natural conversation keeps us going most of the time. Well Ronnie ole boy - I hear some pretty good stories about you. Keep up the good work so your soldier Daddy will be proud of you. I am already thoroughly. But of course you can never get perfect. Just ask Mommy. page 8 Sounds like the Pages are really fixing the place up upstairs. How does the place heat? When you send me things to eat, will you be sure and send something that can be divided among 16 men? as we always pass things around. You don’t get much yourself but if enough fellows get things you still do all right. The candy bars were swell, but I couldn’t very well divide them. Well "Honey’s" this is enough for today so keep up your good work. and I think of you a lot. Got your two kisses too but they are not like the real thing by any means. Besides I never did like just lip-stick. Bye now. and here is a couple of kisses, one for each of you. Daddy ...

13 Mar March 13, 1944

Posted at 17:22h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar.13, 1944 Mon. 11:30 A.M. Hello, Honey, Didn’t get a chance to write you yesterday, as the Pages had company, also four children from eight to thirteen yrs old. Did Ronnie ever have a big time? He was so excited playing with the kids and getting a call from Daddy, that he didn’t go to sleep until 9:30, altho he was in bed at 8:00. He slept until 9:30 this morning tho. Right now he’s pulling at my hand and keeps saying, "Mommy, go bye, bye. Please, Mommy." I told him page 2 a while ago we were going bye-bye on the Avenue to pay the gas and electric bills. I mean the electric and telephone, as [I] haven’t enough money for the gas bill this week. Your glasses cost four dollars. Is that what they usually cost? Yesterday morning I put Ronnie outside in the backyard, but he was crying because he was alone, so Mr. Page went out and played football with him for about an hour. Then after you called Ronnie was out playing with the Page’s nieces and nephews (3 of them). Then Ronnie went upstairs with them for another hour or more. What a big day! page 3 I copied the income tax etc., and Eleanor mailed it this morning for me. That’s one big worry off my mind, anyway. Elinor bowled again yesterday afternoon, so while she was gone I made or rather cooked a pot roast, with potatoes, carrots and parsnips. Sure was good! Even Ronnie went to town on it. Seems he just couldn’t get enough. We also had lemon chiffon cake with whipped cream and coffee. Only wish my honey could have been here to appreciate it. I ought to be pretty good cook by the time you come page 4 back. Practice makes perfect, they say. Edith said she got a card from you and also called this morning for Elinor, Ronnie and I to have dinner there tomorrow nite. I accepted, but don’t know whether Elinor will go. I haven’t asked her yet. Remember you said something about our plants dying, ’cause the edges were turning brown? Lately I’ve noticed cuts across the leaves, and couldn’t figure out what was wrong. Then Elinor caught Ronnie biting the leaves the other day. I never dreamed he was doing it. Wonder where he got that idea. Maybe he was hungry - poor child! page 5 He’s getting to be quite a chubby little rascal! -- No fooling! I had that light blue suit on him that Mrs. Dixon gave him, and he looks like a little doll in it. Mr. Page thought it sure brought out the blue in his eyes. I called Ill. Central about reservations for April 25, but they won’t accept any more than 30 days in advance, so let me know for sure if your guest house reservation is for April 26 or not. I would leave on the streamliner at 8 P.M. April 25 and arrive in Jacksonville at 8: A.M. April page 6 26. Don’t know what I’d do all day, but I can maybe find something to do. The streamliner is a coach car, but hope that Ronnie will get a chance to sleep anyway. I won’t have to pay any fare for him at all, but s’pose I’ll have to hold him in my lap, as I don’t imagine they’ll give me a double seat if it’s crowded. Chances are it won’t be so crowded on a week-day, tho. Maybe if the weather’s nice down there then, I can go to Silver Springs or Jacksonville Beach and stay there another week and that way get to see you two week-ends. Altho let me know what you think, as I’ll have to make reservations in advance page 7 for return trip too. [I] think a week’s sun and rest would do both Ronnie and I a lot of good. Especially me! I got your insurance policy today from the Veterans Administration, also my notice from the War Dept Dependency Benefits Office, that my application for allotment has been accepted. I wrote you about a $10.00 commission being sent you from Smith’s[,] I was all wet, as the enclosed is what was meant, I guess. It’s only receipt for you to sign. Or are you still s’posed to get the $10.00 from Smith’s? It’s all Greek to me. page 8 You should see the beautiful rosy cheeks Ronnie has all the time now. Everyone comments on it. I’m going to buy Bobby a present today, too but as yet have no idea what to get. That’s another $2.50, I expect. Do you need any money? If you do, I can send you a little. I don’t want you to be broke, as I don’t s’pose you’ve been paid yet. Well, bye, sweetheart and don’t forget you have a big girl and a little boy, loving you every minute here at home. Bye, Love, Mommy and Ronnie. P.S. Elinor and the Pages say hello. ...

13 Mar March 13, 1944

Posted at 14:59h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-13-44 7:15 P.M. Mon Notewothy: Dad plans out Mom’s trip to Florida April 26th. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another week well underway and considering the day as a whole was not as bad with the exception of 20 minutes late this afternoon when we marched at the cadence of 140 steps per minute about two miles back to camp. In case you don’t know how fast that is, just try it sometime. I’m sure you won’t, so I’ll tell you, it’s just short of running. Ten years ago running two miles wouldn’t have bothered me much, but now is a different story. This morning we were examined for GI glasses and it took all morning. Some more army efficiency. However it suited us fine because about 20 of us got out of 4 hours of classes and drill and guerrilla exercises. This afternoon we marched out into the country two miles or more and practiced setting anti-tank traps and mines. They also exploded a number for our special benefit. One had an 8 1/2 lb charge of TNT. It rocked the earth. The weather has been very nice today after a very miserable weekend. I received three letters and one card today so tonite [I] feel pretty good. Oh yes page 2 [I] received the shoe trees, leads and clothespins. Thanks very much. I got a letter from you-know-who, one from Norma, one from Betty in Indianapolis and a card from Forest. Now if every day would be like this one maybe armry life would not be so bad. I forgot to tell you that Jack Waters the plumber that Oralee knows and whose name I put in the little name index for you will fix the sump pump in the basement if it still refuses to function properly. However before you call him try putting some Vaseline on that plunger rod all up and down it where it might rub against any part of the pump. As for the reservations I have made for you, it is for April 26th, 27th, 28th and you must check in before 8 P.M. in the evening. I am off at 5:15 though unless we have detailed work so you might as well plan on getting here a little before that. You had better make train reservations right away. Get a round trip ticket with a bed for St. Augustine, Florida. That’s 37 miles East of Camp BLanding and you will come from there [to] here by bus right into the camp and only a block from the guesthouse. page 3 I will go to St. Augustine some week-end and make reservations for us for Saturday nite. My plan is, you stay in camp here Wed, Thurs, and Friday. Then we can go to St. Augustine together over the week-end. Sunday evening you can leave for home from there and I will have to come back to camp by 11 P.M. Of course, if you can’t get an evening train, you will have to stay over until you can get a train. At the guest house here at camp I can stay with you at nite but have to report for revelry at 6:30 A.M. each morning. There is one double bed so Ronnie will have to sleep with us - not in the middle though. I will be able to eat dinner with you and spend the evening (I hope) but the rest of the day you will have to spend by yourself. The lake is real close and the beach is swell. There is an afternoon movie, and the service club right close by. Let me know right away if you are able to get R.R. tickets. It took me from 10 A.M. Sunday until 5:15 P.M. yesterday to get a call through to you page 4 but it was worth it. I had made up my mind that this time I would get through to you come Hell or high water. However, Sunday is a very poor day to call from camp and [I] probably won’t try it again unless I get to Jacksonville or St. Augustine. They say one can get a call thru right away from either of those cities. About <? Novak> and then [the] $10. Yes it is a commission I earned about two years ago and had almost given up ever getting it. I guess the man is honest afterall. I can always use it down here, especially if I start going any place. Fare to Jacksonville is $13 alone. Like you, I think a private in the army will do Murray more good than getting a Com. [Commission] ever will. If he should get a Com. it will tend to make him all the more what he already is. A little of what I am going thru won’t hurt any one and will do plenty of us lots of good. Our Sargeant told us today when we finish this cycle and was [are] placed with an army we will get either Corporal or Sargeant ratings (technical). Hope he is right. I’d hate to think I would page 5 wind up being a private. However that is definitely the way 90% of those now entering will finish. There just aren’t any openings it seems. Sons [some] of the officers in this Company are now being shipped out. An ex New York Yankee baseball pitcher - Dusty Rhodes has just been advanced from Private to Corporal to Sergeant since I have been here. He was in the last cycle. He is a very nice man but there is much talk of politics. There seems to be plenty of that in the army too. Tomorrow and Wednesday we go out on rifle range and don’t finish until 10 P.M. So the letters from me the next two or three days will probably be kinda scarce. It’s beginning to look like two days out of each week they manage to work us all day and half the nite. Which really fixes us up for the week. We were issued another pair of the fatigues Saturday. They look just like the clothes I wore on the farm many years ago or just like prisoners. Neither one is very complimentary to the individual. They are comfortable though. Norma said they are getting along O.K. page 6 and she is back to normal again. The new baby is about it and they all keep her very busy. I can imagine. Well Ronnie ole boy. How did you like talking to your Daddy yesterday. Hope you remember me a little bit. I have no doubt that Judy misses me a little bit. She seems to remember very well. Glad to hear you miss your Mommy when she leaves. Just don’t let her run away too often. But you let her out once in a while, I guess maybe. Well Mommy and Ronnie dears, I have lots to do yet tonite and just a little time left to do it in so will have to close - probably for a day or two. No reason for you slowing up though. Daddy ...

14 Mar March 14, 1944

Posted at 17:47h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-14-44 6:35 p.m. Tues. Noteworthy: Dad starts boot camp. Dad threatens spanking Ronnie and Mommy. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Will start this now even though I know I won’t be able to finish it now and maybe not even tonight. We have a class at 7 P.M. I have to fall out at 6:50. Received the glasses O.K. tonight, and boy were they welcome. The sun bothered me more than anything and today we have been out in it all day. My eyes were about to burn right out of my head. I hope to get G.I. glasses someday soon now too so don’t think I will need any more glasses for awhile. Today we had our first rifle practice. I had it all before at Indiana so it was old stuff although the style was changed a little since then. We did no firing just practiced sighting, aiming, and correct position. 4 hrs of that without stop. It certainly was <?boresome>. The worst is we have the same thing for 4 hrs more tomorrow. We don’t really start shooting until our 5th week, I understand. I certainly had a very poor <? citing> [sighting] record today without glasses. I couldn’t even see the bullseye let alone draw a bead on the damn thing. However, I don’t think page 2 it made any difference as they didn’t look like they were keeping any record of <? things>. Tomorrow will be a different story, I hope. We have a couple Southerners here who claim to be expert shots. Would get a kick out of it if I could beat them when we shoot for records. Now 9 P.M. and I am about ready for the hay. We only had two classes tonight instead of three we had of posted. I guess you do get a break in the Army once in a while. We had to sit thru two movies and I am rapidly learning on old habit of yours. I can even sleep on hard benches. Glad to hear you got to go to the show. Guess I forgot to tell you that after talking to you Sunday I went to the show. It was Ginger Rogers in "Lady in the Dark." Not bad but I knew she would marry the guy from the very first. Well Ronnie, so now you know and can tell everyone your Daddy is in the Army. That’s fine. Be a good boy and don’t go running off with Bobby or I will have to give you a spanking and thus maybe, Mommie one too for letting you. Must close for now. I love and miss you both. Daddy ...

14 Mar March 14, 1944

Posted at 17:19h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar. 14, 1944 Tues. 11:35 A.M. Darling, Here I am again! Surprised? By now I s’pose a letter from me doesn’t even get you excited? Maybe I should skip a couple days? No? Before receiving a letter yesterday, I didn’t get any for three days straight! Isn’t that awful? The home front morale will go all to pieces if you don’t watch out. I’m sorry, I know how busy you must be every minute. By the way, does anyone page 2 wonder who Mrs. Wesley is. Ronny just asked me if this was "Daddy’s letter?" Now he wants to know if that noise is an airplane? A while ago the pump went on and he says, "Motor in basement, Mommy?" Just now he got hold of [a] telephone receipt and he said, "What’s this, Mommy?" Now he’s in the book I’m reading and turning the pages, he says, "telephone book, Mommy?" He’s just full of questions. Wish you were here to answer them all. Now he’s turned his chair upside down and is trying to figure it out. He’s more fun and in[to] more mischief every day. I stopped in with the Holmes’ [doing] page 3 laundry last nite and told them about going to Florida. Marge just called me on the phone from work and tells me that [the] streamliner leaves at 8 A.M. and gets there 8:00 A.M. the next morning, which makes 24 hours on the train. I got it wrong, as I had it that it left 8 P.M. and got in 8 A.M. making it only 12 hours. I should have known better, but of course I was going to call again anyway, so would have caught the error. This means all day and all night on the train. This is coach. I don’t think it would be practical to page 4 ride Pullman, do you, as Ronnie would get too frightened in a berth. It’s been raining all nite and is still raining today. Last nite I went with OraLee to an International Harvester entertainment at Fenger H.S. It consisted of captured Jap and German movies. [It] Was very good! They also had a professional stage show. A magician (from the Bismarck Hotel) a dancer, Dolly Bennett (from the College Inn - Sherman Hotel) and a musical pet show. Two monkeys who could play several popular tunes on piano and guitar, and a shepherd and Police dog (I mean Great Dane) who did tricks etc. page 5 also a marionette show. All very good! After this we went to Inglenook, where I met Vince White and a fellow from Front Intermediate, and talked to them while we ate. Vince is leaving for the Air Corps next week. He’s bringing his wife and daughter (1 yr. old, Jan. 27th) over to see us before he leaves. His wife likes our house so well, she wants to see the inside. She wants Vince to build one like it. Imagine leaving next week and still out gallivanting with the boys instead of being home? He sure is a funny person. He’s only 22, maybe that accounts for it. He asked about page 6 you the first thing, of course. Oralee thought he was so good-looking! I never thought so, particularly. He was wondering how he’s going to live on 50 bucks a month when he makes that in two days now. OraLee asked me afterwards if he was kidding. She couldn’t imagine anyone making that she said. (Confidentially I don’t think he does either.) Lucky if he makes sixteen, as Elinor says he isn’t as good as Ray Forest and Ray had never worked on the floor before, except to help the boys once in a while. De Mick is going to be Supt. now and Reed is being transferred. Too bad I’m not working there, as I really rated with De Mick, page 7 he thought I was pretty nice kid. (No remarks please.) Tonight Ronnie and I are going over to Hayes’ for Pot Roast and the funny part of it is, we’ve been eating that at home for the last two days. Elinor is going out for dinner and to bowl, so she isn’t coming with me. Guess it will disappoint Edith, as she wanted to size Eleanor up, I guess. Am I catty, or did you make me that way about her? I bought Ronnie a couple knit suits for his Florida trip yesterday. One is yellow and the other page 8 blue. They’re real cute and [I] got them for $1.19 a piece. I also bought Bobby one and a pair of pink striped pajamas for $1.00. I think that’s enough, as she spent $2.25 on Ronnie. It’s a size six, hope it’s big enough. (Excuse please, I just had to kiss Ronnie’s elbow as, as he bumped it on the footstool.) [Poem] "As my last salute today I’m content with this: A memory of two warm lips, My sweetheart’s good night kiss. Then a hope that he will know How very proud I am, And one last prayer, "God keep [him] safe, While he’s with Uncle Sam!" Didn’t know how poetic I can be, did you? Well bye, honey and be good. We love you, Mommy and Ronnie ...

15 Mar March 15, 1944

Posted at 17:05h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 15th, 1944, 1:00 P.M. Noteworthy: perils of coupons. Hye honey, Received your Special Del. letter today. Was rather frightened as I was afraid it contained bad news. It was written Mar. 11, and Camp Blanding[’] stamp is Mar 13th - 5 P.M. and I didn’t get it until the 15th. Either poor service, or you forgot to mail it. You speak of rain, that’s all it’s been doing here for four days straight. Could it be we’re having Florida weather? Could be. You mentioned Jr. I wrote and told you once that you’d have to try again. I just finished reading "Dragonwyck" and is it spooky? In this book the man’s wife bore him no sons, so he killed her by means of poisoning cake that he gave her, and married her cousin, who did not find out about it until four yrs later. Must be it isn’t safe not to have ’em. Don’t know what I can do about it, do you? Can’t say I haven’t tried. Not much I can do while you’re gone either. Or do you want me to step out. page 2 a bit. In a way I’m glad it hasn’t happened ’cause seems the war is far from being over for some time. Although sometimes I wished it had, as we’re not getting any younger. Guess I’ll have to come down there and live. The climate might help. I’m glad your stomach and itch aren’t getting any worse, and yet if they did, maybe you could come home. What a life! I’m way glad you don’t mind Army life too much, as I’d hate to think you were perfectly miserable all the time. It helps a lot to be busy, as I know now that Eleanor is here and have to plan meals, and scrub, clean, wash etc. that I don’t have too much time to brood. Yesterday I took down our bedroom curtains, wash them, and dyed them peach color. They look like new and sure make the room look much nicer. I may tint the white bedspread the same color. Can’t buy new things so I’m making the old do. Today I washed all the kitchen cabinets and all the doors in the house. I’m going to wash walls when it gets warmer. page 3 Just happen to think, if all the men are picked for ability, etc. for this messenger center service, how come you have a fellow like the Georgian and the beer truck diver in the company. No offence, I just wondered. Guess the Georgian must have been picked for morale-bldg and entertainment. Am I right? I’m sorry I didn’t send you more candy bars, but you see they’re sort of scarce and I was lucky to get even that many[.] I practically had to beg for them. Guess I’ll have to go buy some at every store. Know what? Mary quit her job with the Rubenstein jeweler (couldn’t stand having the lady tell her what to do) and has a job she has always wanted. She’s working for a Catholic priest now. Maybe he can get those "devils" out of her system, that she used to talk about. I wonder how much she’s making now. Edith told me all this and that the priest’s home is at 92nd and Avalon. That’s pretty close by, s’pose she’ll be over all the time this summer. Ernest Hayes told me last night that page 4 they’ve adopted me as their older daughter. I think all in all they mean well even if you don’t like her particularly. The more I see of Joan tho, the less I like her. She keeps calling Ernest "Skunkie" all the time and mentioned the fact that she had called him that in front of about 20 people at church. He just sits there and takes it and doesn’t say a word. Even Ronnie wouldn’t get by with calling his daddy that in public or private, would he? I hope I’ll be able to teach him more respect for his Daddy than Joan has for hers. Maybe it’s ’cause I love his daddy. Could be. Mrs. Page brought (from the Palmer House Book Shop) a red felt duck filled with beans. In other words, a bean bag to play catch with. It’s so cute! They really are nice to Ronnie. I looked at Spring top coats for Ronnie the other day. He tried some on that were just cotton and some with 12% wool and they were $10. Guess I’ll have to get to work and make him one before I come to see you in April. page 5 Do you have everything you need now, an[d] can I send you something else? You didn’t say whether you wanted me to buy you white shorts or not. If so, let me know what kind and also what size. Will you be able to wear those I sewed the <? tucks> in. Please let me know about whether or not I should make train reservations and also what day etc. I s’pose I could even come in the week-end before the twinty-sixth and stay somewhere else until your guest house reservation date. Just can’t wait to see you, and that goes for Ronnie too, I’m sure. Think I should bring our bathing suits? It should be nice and warm by then. Think I’ll wear slacks on the way down, as they’re much easier to relax in especially for traveling in [a] coach car. I’m not putting much faith in Oralee for the trip down, as you know, she was just talking about it. Nothing definite. Also gas coupons will be worth only 2 gallons after Mar. 21st. That is "A" coupons. You have to write license no. etc. on every coupon now too, so [one] can’t very well use anyone else’s. page 6 coupons. They also have spotters in gas stations to check if you have signed all your coupons or not. Every coupon in the book must have license number and so on on it or you get pulled in. I haven’t signed ours yet, but will before I buy any gas. Haven’t bought any since you left. I’m glad you’re feeling better and getting over your aches and pains. Must be pretty tough, all that exercise after not having much exercise for years. Will make a new man of you and you’ll be so tough, I’ll be frightened. Have you lost any weight? How is that excess bulge around the waist line? All gone now? Well, sweetheart, I have to get back to work now, so I’ll close and hope you’ll keep on thinking of Ronnie and me once in a while, even if you are busy. We’re having scalloped potatoes, ham and fresh peas for dinner. Want some? By the way, who do I call to have the pump fixed? We have water in the basement all the time. Bye and heaps of love and kisses. Mom and Ronnie ...

16 Mar March 16, 1944

Posted at 15:05h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 16, 1944 Thursday, 8:20 p.m. Darling, You should be here, I’m witnessing a floor show by Eleanor and Ronnie. You should see them jitterbugging. Every time she stops, he makes her get up and says, "dance, Eleanor, dance." Now they’re running around the room, "piggy- back." I’m too old for that stuff, but I’ll let the youth in the house have its flame. Even Eleanor’s tired now, but not Ronnie. He slept late this afternoon, so I’m letting him stay up later tonite. After supper last night, I brought Bobby his birthday gift. Ronnie, of course, was with me. Dim’s sister and brother-in-law were there and Mrs. Dixon insisted page 2 we stay for a piece of cake, so we did. They also took some movies, which we all got in on. They’re only about 10 feet left to take now, and they’re waiting for more snow to take some pictures of Bobby. Haven’t done much of anything today, except make some blue satin tie-backs for my peach bedroom curtains. Look pretty nice. I also put the first coat on two of those unpainted chairs. The wood certainly is rough. Splinters all over, and so soft that the paint soaks right in. I’ll have to put at least three coats on. I think I’ll only paint two of them tho, as that’s all I really need. I received your letter saying you had made reservations for me for April 26th, page 3 27th and 28th, and also that Ronnie will have to sleep with us. Why can’t they move a cot in for him? Yours, if they have no extras. Why don’t you ask them if they have any accommodations for children? You know you won’t get any rest that way, and he’ll be so tired from his train trip. By the way, why can’t I come in the week-end before the 26th, or will you able to get a pass both weekends? Find out and if so, I can see you on Sat. and Sun. and then stay in town Mon. and Tues. and then go out to your guest house 26th, 27th and 28th and then you can come in town with me again Sat. and Sun. That way we could have two week-ends page 4 together. How about it? Let me know exactly what date you want me to come, so I can reserve a seat by Mar. 25th. The streamliner coach car gets there in 24 hours, and they have no berths on the streamliner. The regular Pullman train takes about 6 or 8 hrs longer. I doubt very much whether Ronnie and I will be able to sleep in one berth and besides he might keep the other passengers awake crying. Sure is a problem! I’d rather take the streamliner coach, as they have re-clining seats and you get pillows at night. Let me know if this is O.K. I can also put Ronnie on the toilet easier this way. I bought 12 gallons of gas today and he said the tank is full now. I thought it registered page 5 empty when I drove in the station. How much does the tank hold? More than 12 gallons? I also applied for a driver’s license today. Next week, I’ll get my paper showing whether I passed the exam or not. Then I’ll get my license later, but can use the application, or rather the paper showing I passed [the] exam until I get [the] license. I think I’ll drive to Rockford when and if I get my license, if I have any gas by then. When the #10’s expire [ration stamps], the rest of the "A" book coupons will only be worth 2 gals. As for going out evenings, you don’t have to worry, as I’ve only been to a show 3 times since you left. My money doesn’t seem to go far enough to pay June and go out too. By the way when are real- page 6 estate taxes due? Don’t know how I’ll manage to get to Florida, and pay Real estate taxes, too, then that $50.00 insurance in June. Guess I’ll have to draw money out of the bank to do it. Be sure and let me know when they’re due. I just happen to think!! The 26th may be the wrong day for my visit. Wouldn’t that be funny? Oh, yeah!! (I can hear you cuss right now.) Maybe it’ll be alright. I hope so. Well, honey, Eleanor is making some cocoa, so guess I’ll get ready for bed, etc. Bye, and sweet dreams, always. All our love, Mommy and Ronnie (Is that enough?) Good nite ...

17 Mar March 17, 1944

Posted at 15:00h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 17th, 1944 1:00a.m. Friday/Saturday Hi Sweetheart, Eleanor is keeping me company reading today’s paper, altho she’s raring to go to bed and rest her weary bones. We just came home from the Chicago Theater where we saw Kay Kayser [Kyser] in "Swing Fever". Glenn Gray band was on the stage with a floor show. I don’t care much for Kayser [Kyser], but the picture wasn’t too bad. About 1/2 an hr before we were ready to leave [the theater], Eleanor discovered she had lost her shoe under the seat somewhere. We tried locating it ourselves for a good 1/2 hr, and Eleanor was frantic as she had visions of going home on the IC with only one shoe on. The fellow sitting next to her said he’d heard of things like that in the funnies, but didn’t think he’d actually see it happen. I finally went to get an usher and flashlight. Couldn’t find an usher anywhere and by the time I did I took him down the wrong aisle and had to try the next aisle. page 2 I wanted to know how come a shoe got under the seat. We finally found it and all was well. I sure had a good laugh out of it, and so did Eleanor. When we got home we had French toast and coffee, and as soon as I finishe this I’m going to bed sure. Ronnie didn’t make a fuss when we left tonight. I guess he’s getting confident that I won’t desert him after all. I splurged today. Went up on the Avenue and bought 4 cups. We had broken one and as you know the other is sadly cracked. They were a quarter apiece. Eleanor couldn’t believe it that we actually have more than one cracked cup now. We also broke the top to the Cary coffee maker again. Neither one of us know when it happened. I noticed it at noon and Eleanor said it was cracked when she used it in the morning, so I don’t know. We may get tickets for "Something for the Boys" with Joan Blandell [Vivian Blaine] for next Sat matinee. It’s supposed to be very good, I hear. page 3 Tomorrow night I’m going to stay home. Or should I say tonight (Sat.). Eleanor is going by herself to see, "This is the Army" at the State. I’ve already seen it, so will just stay home and write to my hubby instead. I also have some sewing I can do for Ronnie. I’m glad to hear you got the glasses. I worried so about you going without them. They got there sooner than I thought, as they were mailed Sat. nite at 8:00 o’clock. I mailed them at the Post office, which helped some. I called Roseland News about your Tribune and they told me to call the Tribune and it seems they had your name all wrong. They had it spelled Shankmeuller or something. Said they would rectify the error and extend the subscription that much longer for you. I’m sorry this happened as I subscribed for you on March 6th. Please let me know if you want the Sunday edition also or not. I haven’t written Norma yet thanking her for Ronnie’s and my gift page 4 but will try to get it done tomorrow sure. When Ronnie plays with his soldier dolly now, he tells everybody that it’s a "soldier boy like Daddy." I can’t wait to see the look in his face when he sees you in uniform. Would you like to have one of these apron kits for your toilet articles? If so, let me know or anything else you might want. Tried to buy some Health Spot shoes for Ronnie, but they haven’t had any since Xmas. I’ll have to get him something else, I guess. Guess I’ll sign off now and give you some rest from this scribbling. Besides I’m half asleep now. Eleanor already went to bed. Adios darling, and think of me often and behave yourself and save all your love for Ronnie and Mommy. Love always, Mommy and Ronnie P.S. Murray got his 4-F yesterday until August. Tom Schanatna is supposed to hear how he came out tonight. P.S. Scandal - Eleanor saw Vince White out with a gal from the plant Wed. night And he didn’t show up for work Thurs. His wife is expecting another Baby in June and he is leaving for the Air Corp next Friday -- "THE LOUSE" ...

18 Mar March 18, 1944

Posted at 12:34h in Letters

Letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler, Mar. 18, 1944, Saturday 4 p.m. Noteworthy: Mom and Dad try for "Jr". How "Mommy" is doing. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another week finally over. Each one seems to get tougher, but I seem to get tougher right along with it, so I am not faring so badly. This morning I had to go to the eye clinic to be examined for GI glasses, so missed all the rough stuff. Did get in on inspection though. It was our first rifle inspection outside by the camp commander. We stood at attention for the better part of an hour. That isn’t easy either. We stood at attention while he examined each one of our rifles. If they were dirty, we caught hell. I had mine in pretty good page two shape. So did all the rest of our hut with the exception of three. Those three have been doing extra work ever since. Yes, Sams was one of them. As for Sams, being <? dumn> or ignorant and so on, I never said that. In fact, <? Punts Hargrove> wasn’t either. He was just continually doing the right thing at the wrong time. The bus driver is just a nice easy going fellow with reasonably good intelligence. We have a ladies wear buyer. a National biscuit man, one kid out of high school, one lawyer, one fur buyer, one farmer, one nightclub owner, Sams worked for Jewel Tea Company and sold insurance, one department store owner, couple of machinists, one fellow worked at airport, and so on in this hut. You see we are typical cross section of the country, just like every place else. There is the highest and lowest in any group. A couple boys in our hut could certainly be a lot smarter and more ambitious to my opinion. page three I am spending another weekend in camp. Tomorrow, Sunday, I am detailed to be a battalion messenger and Monday, I am table writer. Guess I am making up a little for what I have missed so far. They are both soft jobs and I miss no classes so no one minds those details they say, I will tell you more about them after Monday. I plan on going someplace next week end through. Five weeks without a break is about enough. Won’t be able to do much on ten dollars thought. So I am not planning anything big. When you come down, bring enough money for both of us because I am just getting by and that is all. Also be sure and bring the page four camera and those films I had in the top drawer. More too if you can get them. As for "Jr", I wish you were here so we could try again -- now. And it might even be a good idea to check up and see if maybe there is something either of us could do about getting "Jr" started. Time is getting short and maybe sometime before we get another chance. And as you say, we are not getting any younger fast. If you want something to send, send a cake with plenty of icing on it. Cake is something we only get from home down here. You can also send some more socks, size 10.5 and 3 or 4 more pairs underwear, size 32 pants, 38 shirts and old ones are alright. Couple more towels. Could also use some brown house slippers. As for the Hayes -- I suppose they are all right and really do mean well. Joan. I don’t think I ever will like. Just remember though page five don’t get too obligated to them. We can take care of ourselves and manage our affairs as good or better than they can. Certainly glad the Pages like Ronnie. In fact I know I will worry much less because of the Pages being there than I otherwise would. Certainly glad things are working out as well as they are. The army is bad enough but if I had to do a lot of worrying about home, Ronnie and you, I would not be able to take it near as well as I am. Just don’t ever let me down. From all reports, I am getting it sounds like you are doing an excellent job. For which I am very thankful and love you all the more for it. You know I am not one to sing praises to anyone very often to my page six detriment, I suppose, but nevertheless, opinions build up and from in my mind as each day goes by and in time full justice will come forth. I think that must be the way the army does it too. We never get praised for what we do good but certainly get plenty of hell when things go wrong. In the end though I think they know what they are doing and the ones who do what’s right will be on top. Well Ronnie, how are you behaving these days? Your mommy asks if your daddy is losing any weight. Well all I can say is if you have gained as much as I have lost since entering the army you are really some big boy by now. How much do you weigh now anyway? Getting about time for supper so will get this off. Plan on seeing a show tonight. Have you got the tickets yet? Daddy ...

19 Mar March 19, 1944

Posted at 22:57h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 19th, 1944 Sun. 3:35 p.m. Hello darling, (Excuse me for a few minutes, forgot to put the meat on for dinner. Won’t take me long.) Here I am again! I’m home all alone again, Ronnie is sleeping and Eleanor is bowling. The Pages have company, so I hear bursts of laughter once in a while. Only wish you were here to keep me company. Kept pretty busy all day yesterday (Sat). I paid the gas bill, cleaned house, and in the evening Marge and her sister, Janet, came over for half an hour or so. Then Eleanor washed her hair and I did the rest of my ironing, and Mrs. Dixon came over. She left about 1:00 A.M. Kept saying she should go home, but didn’t. In the course of the evening we popped popcorn and built a fire in the fireplace and just talked and talked. All in all, a nice evening, except that you should have been here, too. This noon, I took Ronnie for a page 2 walk and played football with him for a while. Mr. Page also brought him up to show him off to his company. His dad was one of them. Ronnie fell on the curb yesterday and got a bump on his head. Sort of a burn, as the skin was bruised. He’s so proud of that bruise - Oh boy! I put mercurchrome on it, so it’s pretty and red. He cried a bit, but got over it when he saw a horse go by. Mr. Page asked him today where his daddy was, and Ronnie said, "Daddy’s in the Army." Every time he sees a picture of a soldier and a girl in a magazine, it’s Daddy and Mommy, now. Ronnie’s getting fat, so Eleanor calls him "Butterball." And he says, "No, Butterball, Eleanor." She also calls him "Schmooglepuss" and he says "No, Schmooglepuss, Eleanor." He doesn‘t like her nicknames, I guess. I bought some other rug cleaner. The kind where you get down and hand on and knees and scrub with water and brush. Some day I’ll use it when I feel the need of strenuous exercise. I also want to wash the walls, too. page 3 I seem to have all kinds of ambition lately. Must be I’m getting more rest. Murray was washing windows yesterday. Wish someone would do mine inside and outside. It’s too cold yet, tho as it was snowing and real windy yesterday. As Ronnie says, the wind goes "ooh! ooh!" You should hear him. Today, it’s about 20 outside, but no snow. Just cold! I sent your two topcoats and six suits to be cleaned and stored. A dollar a year apiece for storage and a dollar apiece for cleaning. All payable when you get them out of storage, so better not be in the Army too many years. I’ve received a couple of letters from Betty and Chuck, but haven’t answered, as it seems I do all my letter writing to my honey, now I’m going to write Norma today, thanking her for Ronnie’s pajamas and the lace doily. Well, sweetheart, let me know exact date I should come down there. page 4 Also when I should leave so I can make reservations both ways. Guess I’ll close now and wait to hear from you. Bye and loads of love from Mom and Ronnie P.S. Eleanor sends a hello and says, she’ll share you with me when you get home. Oh yeah. We have tickets for "Something for the Boys", with [Joan Blanddale] Vivian Blaine at the Civic Opera House for next Sat. matinee. I hear it’s good. Dixons saw it Friday night and Oralee and Fred went last night. By the way Fern hasn’t moved yet. She’s trying to get her $10 deposit back on the apartment she rented and also $75 she’s paid on her furniture. Her mother married Mar 1st and still Fern hasn’t taken the boy. That’s the 3rd Apt. she’s deposited on. She sure can’t make up her mind about anything it seems. ...

20 Mar March 20, 1944

Posted at 18:17h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 20th, 1944, Monday, 9 o’clock p.m. Dearest, I just finished writing your sister Norma. I received a letter from her today, so I’m enclosing it. Didn’t get a letter from you today, made me feel so blue. This is one of those nights when nothing but love stories on the air and no love for Mommy. Of course, Ronnie’s good night kiss helped and his "God bless Mommy and Daddy", too. Don’t know what I’d do without him to help me over the rough spots. After all, it’s only four weeks until we’ll see you, so that’s what keeps me going, too. Marge brought Murray’s letter over tonight for me to read. I thought you were a little too blunt about the 90-day wonder theme. After all, he may still get his commission, and he’s apt to think you’re envious. I know that what you say is true, however, that enlisted men think very little of these overnight commissioned page 2 men, but it still wasn’t very nice to say, especially since you wanted to be one yourself. I put the second coat on those chairs today, but I’m afraid they need still another coat, as the wood is so soft it seems to go right in and leaves none on the surface. I’ve already put a pint of paint on those two chairs. Baked a pineapple upside-down cake today. Tasted pretty good for a change. Pineapple is now 43 points a can. Last night as Eleanor and I were sitting here reading, Mr. Page and his guests, his sister and husband and his father, came down the stairs. He introduced them to us, and after they left, he came down again with a dish of Fannie Mae chocolate for us to eat while reading. Wasn’t that nice? Edith dropped in for about an hour while we were eating supper last night and mentioned that she hoped that those friends of hers in Jacksonville would ask me to stay there. But nothing more was said, and I have to make my reservations page 3 by the 25th. So I’ll be sure to have them. Please write and tell me whether you think I should come to St. Augustine or Jacksonville and when and so on. Whether you want me to come the weekend before the 26th or not, I wish I could buy a spring coat to wear down there, but I suppose that would be impossible as they are at least $30. I don’t really have one that’s very nice. Don’t suppose you’d want me to touch my Pullman Bank account, would you? If you say so, I’ll get along without somehow. I’m getting used to it now. The only thing is I wanted to look extra nice when I see my honey. After all, you’ll have a new outfit. Marge told me Saturday night that her mother had seen Gladys (I mean Murray’s mother) and that she had taken a couple weeks off to take the census (or was it something else? anyway it must be for Mrs. Holmes) and that she may quit her job and take over Dick’s job if he has to go. If he doesn’t have to go page 4 she may still go to work for National Biscuit. Maybe you know more about it than I do, as she wrote to you. Funny, I haven’t heard a thing from her as yet. Marge told me I could ride down to Glady’s with them some Sunday when they go to see his folks, but I hate to do that without her invitation. Of course when she was here she told me to come out to see her, but I thought she could write or call and make a definite date if she wants to see us badly enough. Am I wrong? Tell me if I am, as I don’t want to cause hard feelings of any kind. Ronnie and I played football again this morning. We have fun, but I suppose some of my neighbors think I’m batty. Doesn’t faze me, though, as long as Ronnie gets fresh air. We also went for a walk this afternoon. Forgot to tell you, he fell and bumped his head Saturday. Come to think of it, I guess I told you at that. Nothing serious anyway. Good night Darling, here’s a few big kisses from us, Mommy and Ronnie. P.S. Read that Ford thinks the war will end in two months. But won’t tell the reason why he thinks so. Also here, Detroit is already starting to connect machines to make cars again. Only a rumor, of course. Love, Mommy. ...

21 Mar March 21, 1944

Posted at 14:51h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 21st, 1944, Tuesday, 11:20 p.m. Darling, Gosh, no letter today either! Guess my honey’s really deserted me now. Are you mad at me? After all you can’t be angry long distance, ’cause then we can’t kiss and make up. How are you, by now? Are all the aches and pains gone? Including the sinus headaches, cold, and so on? Sure hope so! Did the Vicks I sent you help any, or didn’t you want it? I put a third coat on those two kitchen chairs today. They look almost OK now, if you don’t inspect them very closely. Ronnie has a slight cold. Page two. [and] Is coughing a little bit. It’s a wonder he isn’t really ill, as everyone around here has a cold (except me so far) it seems. Bobby Dixon, Mrs. Dixon’s father, Ernest Hayes, Joan Hayes, and even Eleanor all have colds. Of course he’s been around all of these people. I put Vicks on his chest and back last night and gave him warm milk, and he had a lot of rest today. He hasn’t coughed all day, but a couple times tonight. Don’t worry a bit about him, as I’m not. I suppose I shouldn’t even tell you, but I know you wouldn’t want me to keep anything concerning him from you. His colds only last a day, so he’ll be fine tomorrow. Murray stopped in tonight for about an hour. He really wanted to see Eleanor to ask Page three. if she’d drive a couple days this week, as his car’s gonna to be in the garage. But she wasn’t home, so he talked to me and played with Ronnie for a while. Ronnie really gets him fetching and carrying for him. He told me he may go to Indianapolis over the week-end as he has an influential uncle there who might know someone in the Navy, who could help him to get in. He’s still afraid he’ll have to go in the Army August 19th, unless he does something drastic before then. Too bad you’re not here so you could ride to Indianapolis with him and see Claude. Did you ever hear from Claude since you wrote and told him we couldn’t come in there before you left? If not, you better write. That page four. reminds me, you told me he wrote since you went to Florida. I forgot -- I’m sorry. Eleanor went to a roller derby tonight with some girls. Same as a walkathon, only on skates. (I think.) I stayed home, of course. Mrs. Dixon came over for a couple of minutes while Murray was here. (Aha -- scandal!) I made three prs of kitchen curtains tonight, too. I’ve had the materials since about three months before you left, but just now made them. They’re yellow chintk with red apples and green leaves printed on it. Sure are cheerful looking! Murray said, "Wes won’t know the place when he gets back." (Ronnie crying -- just a minute.) He just wanted to go "toily". You know I don’t. page five. think he’s wet the bed more than a couple times since you left. He either cries, or if I’m bed he calls me, when he has to go during the night. Then after he goes, he falls right asleep again. Sure saves on the laundry, when he doesn’t wet the bed anymore. I’m so proud of him! Mr. and Mrs. Page came home while I was sewing curtains tonight and after a while she came down with a piece of cake and some chocolate candy for me to nibble on. Guess they like me or else it’s because they like the apt. so well that they’re nice to me for that reason. Ronnie sure goes for them in a big way, he’s always calling up the stairs at them or else walks up and page six. knocks on their door. Even Judy likes it up there. Guess it’s cause they give her eats. Ronnie also knows just where they keep their candy dish and heads for it every time. Such a family I have! It’s 12:00 midnight, so I guess I’d better hike to bed and get some sleep. I haven’t been able to sleep the last couple of nights. Too much coffee I guess. We’re (Ronnie and I) counting each day until we see you, so be a good "Daddy" and don’t misbehave. Forever yours, Ronnie and Mommy ...

23 Mar March 23, 1944

Posted at 16:17h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 23, 1944 Thursday 9:50pm. Noteworthy: Discussion about whether Mom could have a baby. Dearest, Just finished reading a couple romances in a magazine and all of a sudden I got a bright idea! Why not write my sweetheart a love letter? You like the idea? I’ll put it all in three words[,] "I love you." Enough? Jack Waters came this morning and he cleaned around the plunger I guess and oiled it and for 6 minutes work it cost me two dollars. Hiway robbery, isn’t it? Ronnie still coughs some at night, but doesn’t seem to be sick otherwise, so guess he’ll be okay. Had all kinds of pep. Can’t keep a good man down, I guess. Wonder if Ray came home this morning. Sally said they’d stop in to see us when and if he came home. Can’t imagine him in a job outfit, but imagine he makes a pretty handsome one at that. How do you look in uniform? Pretty nice? page 2 I meant to tell you that the City of Miami Streamliner[,] all coach[,] takes 24 hrs and the "Seminal" (Pullman train) takes 34 hrs. So I’d be foolish to take the Pullman. I’d hate to spend 34 hrs on a train, when I can get there in 24. Am I right? Anyway I’ll make reservations on the City of Miami. There is also a $27.61 difference in the fare and we can use that money, can’t we? That’s a winning argument right there! The coach is $49.01 and the Pullman plus one lower berth is $76.62 and two berths (one for Ronnie) $86.80 which would make it $37 more if we each had a berth. Both my children (Eleanor and Ronnie) are in bed, so I’m sitting up alone to write this letter. Edith said she got a letter from you. She was so thrilled and said it was such a nice letter. Marge stopped in tonight for a while. She had the rates etc. for the trains also time schedule etc. I’m surprised, but she certainly has been stopping page 3 in quite often since you left. Maybe she doesn’t dislike me so much after all. She’s certainly gone out of her way to do me favors etc. I got my temporary driver’s license today, good until April 17th, and my permanent license will be mailed to me before then. Sure passed my test in a hurry! Now I won’t have to feel like a hunted criminal every time I drive. I may drive to Rockford next week if the weather’s nice and I get up some courage. By the way, how did we used to drive there? How do I get there from here? Do I go down Halstead? And where do I turn off etc? Also do you remember the route numbers? Let me know right away as I like to go early next week if possible, while I still have gas in the car. You should hear Ronnie and his book reading now. I read a line and he repeated and I read another line and he repeated it. Won’t be long now before he’ll read all by himself. Edith was telling me that a friend of hers had said that a child of two is page 4 exactly one half of what his final height will be. Ronnie is 34 1/4 inches which should make him five ft 8 1/2" [Editors note, he turned out to be exactly that.] which will make him a pretty good sized man. I wonder if this is true or logical? Guess I’ll ask De Young When I see him again. How tall was Ronnie when we were there last? Do you remember? Seems to me it wasn’t that tall, but I measured him today and he’s 34 1/4." Guess Judy isn’t going to have a family as I see no indications so far and it’s way past time if it’s 6 wks. Why don’t you make an appt with a gynecologist while you’re in town sometime and maybe I could go see him while I’m there and find out if there’s anything wrong as you seem to think. I could go here, but would rather have you with me when I go. A gynecologist is a specialist in this field, I understand. The only obstetrics and gynecologist in Roseland is a Stuart J. McCormick. Have you ever heard of him? If you say so I’ll go see him even if I’m afraid to go alone. Well honey, guess I’ll go to bed now, as I also have a slight cold now. Bye darling and all our love, Mommie and Ronnie P.S. What if the Dr. say no go ever? Would you still love me or not. I’m kind of worried! Guess you should have had me see a Dr. before we were married so you’d have been sure. ...

22 Mar March 22, 1944

Posted at 17:08h in Letters

Letter from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 22, 1944 Wed. 11:00 P.M. Hello, honey. Received two letters today, the ones you wrote Sat and Sunday. Sure seemed nice after not getting any for four days. Sally called me today and said she expected Ray home tomorrow morning. I guess they finally finished his dental work. It’s taken all the extra time as his furlough was due a long time ago. She said Shirley has another cold now, too. She just got over the one she got after Ronnie’s party. Ronnie seems to be getting over his, as I haven’t heard him cough since he went to bed. To look at him in the daytime you’d never know he has a cold, as he’s just as peppy as ever. I gave him fruit juice and soup and milk and fruit all day today and he’s not constipated, so think he’ll be all over it by tomorrow. I also put Vicks all over him tonight after his bath. Elinor is all over her cold now, I s’pose I’m due next, but I hope not. I’ve been. page 2 lucky so far. I called Jack Waters about the pump and he said he’d stop in the morning. I haven’t any money, so I hope I can pay him later. That pump sure has caused a lot of trouble. The basement gets completely full and about 3 and 4 inches deep. I had put a lot of boxes of stuff of mine down there and they are ruined. Also my wardrobe chest and Mrs. Page’s chest. And worst of all Elinor had put two suitcases (expensive ones) and a trunk down there and they are ruined. The suitcases are wrecked because every glued seam has come apart, also silk lining ruined. I had told her it was all right to put them there, so I suppose I should pay for the damages $$$$$!!! She doesn’t know it yet and I don’t dare tell her. I sure wish you had had it repaired when I told you about it before you left, but you just ignored it and now I’m in trouble and no money. What a life! Am I tired right now! I spent all afternoon and up until now washing the kitchen walls and ceiling. Was it ever page 3 filthy! Especially the ceiling as that hasn’t been washed since last spring. Murray came over to borrow a board to put across his ladder, because he was also washing their kitchen tonight. Funny we both picked on the same day, isn’t it? Although when it comes to washing, I’d rather do his kitchen as that’s so small, it would be a cinch. I bought 50 pounds of potatoes yesterday from a farmer peddling them from door to door, and even those got wet in the basement. I paid $2.25 for 50 pounds. Thought it pretty high, but guess they’re 5 pounds for 29 cents at the stores. Sure are sky high. Say, from what you say, you’re so toughened up now I’m going to be afraid of you. Hope you won’t use your brute strength on me, just save it for your guerrilla exercises in camp. Right now, after washing the kitchen I feel so achy and weak I couldn’t even lift my hand to wave hi to anyone. It’s an effort even to write, as my fingers are swollen and stiff from the hot water and soap. But the kitchen sure looks nice now with clean cabinets and walls and page 4 ceiling, new curtains and white chairs and table. Too bad you’re not here to admire it. Even Ronnie keeps telling me how nice and clean and "purty" it is. Mrs. Hayes called last night and asked me over to her house for a luncheon and to sew for the Red Cross next Wednesday, noon. She said Vida Campbell, and half a dozen other women would be there. I don’t want to go, but she overrides all my alibis and objections and also tells me it’s mostly for me, as she and Vida had been planning ever since you left to have it. I know I won’t enjoy it as they are all so much older than I and have nothing in common with a bunch of women I don’t know. S’pose it means I’ll have to have them at my house, too, but that’s out if I can get out of it. Mrs. Elliot (the minister’s wife[)] stopped in yesterday and asked if I’d donate for the Red Cross. I said "No", as I’ve only 20 cents to my name. After all I think it’s a lot of nerve to ask people whose husbands are in the service, anyway. I s’pose she thought it was funny I didn’t give, but I page 5 can’t help I haven’t any money, can I? After all I think the people with the war jobs can do the donating, not the servicemen. Am I right! I haven’t made reservations yet but will call this week, and I’ll make them for Friday morning April 21st and get in Florida Sat morning April 22nd. O.K.? I don’t want to make reservations yet tho, until I know for sure whether it will be the "wrong date." I’ll know by the end of this week. - I hope! Get it? Elinor went out for dinner tonite and also to bowl, so I had chop suey. S’pose I’ll suffer for it during the nite, altho I hope not. I was so mad tonite. I went to Benny’s and bought some groceries and a quart of cream. And just as I got to my door[,] the cream bottle fell out and broke. I was just sick! 50 cents just like that! Could have kicked myself all over the place. It’s raining tonite. Just pouring down and thunder and lightning galore. Such weather. Cold as the devil one day and page 6 raining the next no wonder everyone has colds. You haven’t said anything about your itch or stomach lately, or don’t they bother you anymore? Or do you have time for itches and stomach trouble there? I hope they’re better anyway. Well, honey. Buenos nochie, and sweet dreams of your best girl, too! With all our love, Ronnie and Mommie P.S. Can’t buy any of those things you want until I get some money, but will get them then. O.K.? Were the socks I bought you too large? Wool shrinks you know! Those were 11’s. Let me know. P.S. Write the zone number 28 on my letters after this. Maybe I’ll get them sooner. At least so the Postoffice claims. ...

24 Mar March 24, 1944

Posted at 15:32h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 24th, 1944, Friday, 5:00 p.m. Darling, I am writing a few lines before I go to the post office to get some stamps. I also have dinner to prepare yet. Eleanor is trying to go to sleep in the big chair and Judy is asleep and snoring beside me and Ronnie is still asleep. What a family! I’m not sleepy, but have a sore throat and a cold. The weather is beautiful outdoors and it’s about 60 degrees and lots of sunshine. I haven’t had a chance to enjoy it tho, as I’ve been washing clothes and cleaning house all day. Ronnie is still coughing a little at night, so I don’t want him to go out until he’s completely over it. He’s eating real good and outside of coughing a little, he looks and acts as spry as ever. It’s this uncertain weather and I guess the sewer water in the basement hasn’t helped any either, but it’s O.K. now since it was fixed. Page 2. I’m sending you some snapshots, which I hope will make up for this short letter. The dim ones were taken on a very dark and dreary day. I had the shutter opening as open as it will go and yet they’re dim. The one of me Eleanor took after she had fixed my hair in an upswept hairdo, as she wanted you to see it. I think I look kind of funny, but I think the ones of Ronnie are darling, don’t you? I had some more of me, but know you’d rather have Ronnie’s pictures than mine anyway. When are you going to have a picture taken of yourself? Ronnie and I can’t wait to see it. If nothing else get a 3 for a dime picture just so we can get a glimpse of how you look. Well darling must say bye now so I can mail this. By the way, did you have the car inspected? I notice Mar. 31st is the last day. If not, where do I go? Bye and heaps of love, Ronnie and Mommy ...

25 Mar March 25, 1944

Posted at 14:45h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 25, 1944, Saturday, 11.45 p.m. Darling, Well here I am writing to my husband when I wish with all my heart that he were here beside me or at our favorite movie holding my hand. Why, oh why can’t my wish come true just this once? I have happy news for you as Ronnie is all well now and he has been sleeping perfectly the past two nights. But now I have a cold as I guess being up with him those three nights and working hard all day got me down. Can’t burn the candles at both ends I guess. I’m page two. really proud of myself for getting him back in good health so soon. I kept him on fruits and liquid diet all three days, also gave him hot baths and Vicks rub twice a day. Also kept him in bed as much as possible. I also used a couple of those glycerin suppositories on him as he was a trifle constipated. Now if I could do as well for myself. In last nite’s letter I told you it was warm and sunshiny. Well it started to snow in the wee hours and snowed all morning and is down to 20 degrees again. Such weather we have! We (Eleanor and I) had planned on a nice day today, as we went to see "Something for the Boys." Page three. with Joan Blondell at the Civic Opera House, but we had to run into bad weather, of course. The play was pretty good as plays go, but I still like the movies better, I think the costumes were gorgeous, and Joan is very pretty tho. Edith took care of Ronnie, as June couldn’t come, but I gave Joan a box of Andes chocolates so I wouldn’t feel obligated. I think that’s what you would have me do, isn’t it? How much money do you think I’ll need outside of my train fare? The fare is $50.00 plus about $4 or 5.00 for meals enroute. Do you s’pose I could get by on another fifty while there? Of course, if I don’t get my page 4. allotment by then, I’ll be out of luck, as that’s what I’m planning on using. I also have to get Ronnie a spring coat, and hat, and shoes, and myself some shoes before then, and possibly a spring hat. I hope that this summer, when I won’t have heating bills, I’ll be able to save a dollar now and then. I’m certainly not doing it now. of course. I’ve had a lot of bills all at once now such as telephone, 6.16, electric, $6.00, gas, $8.00, $12 Tribune bill, $5.00 for Colliers, and I spent about $8.00 on you, and $12.00 for slip cover material, $2.00 for plumber. I’m tickled to death that I’ve been able to do it without touching the allotment money so far. page 5. That’s pretty good, I think. I’d like to have bought something pretty to wear down to Florida, but we’ll skip it, I guess. You’ll just have to love me in my old clothe! I’ll fix Ronnie up pretty instead. OraLee was over here tonight from 7:30 until 11:00 o’clock. Eleanor went to a bowling banquet and hasn’t come home yet. Marge and Mary came in for a while and Marge gave Ronnie his bath. They stayed about an hour as Tom Schaustra, and his wife were coming over tonight. Guess Tom didn’t really want us over, as he didn’t waste any time inviting Murray over after you left. Guess you made him mad that night razzing him about page 6. his draft status. I haven’t heard any more about how he came out with the draft board hearing. I always forget to ask Murray about it. Tom’s younger brother (he’s 18) left last week for induction. Oralee is having her whole apt. redecorated next week. I don’t care much for the paper tho. It’s a large blue floral figure for the living room and a rose floral for the dining room. Guess it’s a little loud for my taste, but maybe it’ll be pretty when it’s up, altho the rooms are going to look smaller than ever. I’ve thought of papering our bedroom myself. Do you think I could? It’s so soiled and faded now that I page 7. don’t like it at all. Are you tired of reading this letter by now? Tell me if you like long letters, as I can make them much shorter! I guess I’d better doctor myself up and go to bed as I’m starting to cough and sniffle terribly and if I get down, who’s going to cook, clean, and wash for my family? Oh me!. Eleanor goes on nites Mon. nite, so she’ll be sleeping on the [couch] again. I sleep much better alone, as I’m afraid to even turn over for fear I’ll wake her when she sleeps with me. It’s 12:45 a.m. now and Eleanor isn’t in yet -- bad girl! I told Eleanor about your proposition, and honey if page 8. I feel as bad then as I do right this minute, I’ll be glad to share you! (Oh yeah! Just try it!) Don’t get me wrong, I’m not jealous! At least I never hope to be. It brings too many heartaches I hear! I’m half frozen right now. I sure need a little thawing and not a soul here to do it. It’s a shame isn’t it? By the way are you willing to share me when I get to Florida? After all you said everything you get there has to be divided by 16 fellows. Oh what am I saying? Good night Sweetheart, and can’t wait to see you. Always yours, Mommy and Ronnie. P.S. Fern finally moved out and is sharing an apartment with an old widow who gets up and cooks breakfast for her. Kisses her goodbye. And is just wonderful to her. She’s only been there a week though. Are you getting the Tribune yet? Mommy ...

26 Mar March 26, 1944

Posted at 14:42h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 26th, 1944, Sunday, 9.30 p.m. Noteworthy: Mom’s eventful days My dearest, I’m terribly sorry to disappoint you and also disrupt all our plans, but it seems it was not meant to be. Today is the eventful day I’ve been waiting for, and if you figure closely, you’ll find that the day will reoccur the 22nd of April, approximately. I’m sorry, but what can I do? The best thing would be to make it a week earlier or at least two weeks later as I may be late again. Unpredictable, that’s me. Can you change your reservations at the guest house to a week earlier? I hope so, otherwise it will have to be two weeks later. It never fails. Holidays, vacation, and so on. I always have bad luck. It’s my jinx. Please write at once special delivery airmail so I can make my train reservations. I did my house cleaning today even tho it is Sunday as we left early to go to the play yesterday, Eleanor bowled page 2. again today and while she was gone, it started to snow again. It’s over six inches deep now. In the middle of the snow storm, it started to lightening and thunder. Sounds unbelievable doesn’t it, but it’s the God’s truth. I didn’t believe my ears so I asked Marge when she came in tonight and they were out at Murray’s folks and they all saw and heard it too. You should be glad you’re in Florida, but of course our weather is far from monotonous. Summer one day, winter the next the[n] the next day spring -- oh me! Gladys called me this morning and apologized for not writing or calling sooner but said Dick is going to Indianapolis for his physical next Friday, and she’s quit her job and is learning his. Said she’s so tired of night, doesn’t have ambition to do anything. She makes his route with him every day and will take over when and if he leaves. Said she owes you a letter and will write right away. Also wants me to come out with Murray and Marge next time they drive out to see page 3. his folks. She also said she exchanged Ronnie’s overalls for a size six (6) but hasn’t gotten around to sending them yet. Guess she thought she’d get them large enough this time. I’m glad I didn’t drive to Rockford this week-end as I might have run into the snow storm on the way. Anyway, I’m so sick with my cold, cough and so on, plus the other, that I couldn’t have made it anyway. I hope I get over this cold soon, it’s getting me down. Certainly tickled that Ronnie is over his, even if he did pass it on to me. We asked Ronnie where his Daddy was today and he said, "Daddy’s in the Army in Florida, Daddy’s a soldier!" And then he saluted and said, "’tention!" (attention). He woke up this morning and stood up in bed and (I have your photo when you were 18 on the chest of drawers) said, "Hi, Daddy" and pointed to your photo. I think he’ll still remember you when he sees you so don’t worry, honey! Well I made some lemon chiffon pie for dinner and Eleanor and I are page 4 going to finish it before we retire, so I’ll say good night Sweetheart and the sweetest of all dreams to you. With all our love, Mommy and Ronnie. P.S. How about some more letters? You’re slipping. I’ll forgive you tho, as I know you don’t have much time. Love, Mommy ...

28 Mar March 28, 1944

Posted at 14:39h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 28th, 1944, Tuesday, 8:00 p.m. Hello, honey, Ronnie dictating, "Hi, Daddy. I love you, Daddy." And me, too. Eleanor is on nites again now, so I’m alone evenings again. Poor little me. I keep pretty busy sewing etc tho so I don’t get too lonesome as yet. Mrs. Dixon came over last night and stayed until 1:00a.m. Mr. Page had four fellows upstairs playing poker last night. I was about to join them when Mrs. Page came home -- darn it. Just can’t have any fun. I cut Ronnie’s spring top coat last night and started sewing it today. It’s quite a job, only hope he’ll be able to wear it when I get thru. Ronnie is having a big time right now at the window. Marge is washing dishes in her kitchen, and Ronnie is reading out of his book to her, long distance, of course, from our living room. Now he’s holding up his Teddy bear and panda for her to see. Page two. While Eleanor was home, Ronnie got the pink and blue silk bow off my valentine candy box and he asked her to put it on his head. Wish you could see him, as he makes an adorable girl. 12:00 Midnite Marge came over and we’ve been sewing until about an hour ago. She started a hem on a dress, and I’m sewing Ronnie’s coat. Seems I have so much company lately, I don’t have time for my correspondence. I missed writing yesterday, but won’t let it happen too often. I certainly miss your letters. They’re so few and far between. It seems you’re really having a hectic time of it in your basic training. I’ll bet you’re glad it’s almost over. I think you’ll be one of the best soldiers there when you get thru. Tell them I said so! And also that you deserve some chevrons on your sleeve. You’ll get them if anyone will, I know. I’m anxiously waiting to hear from you concerning when I should come Page 3. down to see you. I hope you’ll say the 14th or 15th of April so I can see you sooner, but I s’pose it will have to be later. I bought Ronnie a pair of shoes finally. I got them at a Tom McCann store near 63rd and Halstead. They’re size 7. And the ones he’s got now are 5 1/2 so they should be large enough. They look nice and have leather soles and white leather uppers. Is it cold evenings down there? I won’t need anything heavier than a spring coat, will I? or Ronnie either. I s’pose by next month it will be plenty warm. We sure have funny weather here! It’s raining tonight. And all last week-end we had a heavy snow storm. Can’t figure this climate out at all. (As you’ll notice my pen leaks too.) I’ll try to buy you one over the week-end, as I’m broke right now. Will also try to get some of the other things you mentioned. Well darling, it’s 12:30 and I’m rather sleepy so I’ll have to Page 4. say goodnight. (I’d do more than say it if you were here.) We are always loving you, Mommy and Ronnie. P.S. Don’t ever let us down. P.S. Almost had buttonholes made on the wrong side as I just about forgot that men close their coats opposite from women. You’d have been awfully angry with me if I’d done that to Ronnie, (after all, he’s not a girl). ...

29 Mar March 29, 1944

Posted at 16:23h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 29th 1944 Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Darling, I’m trying to get this letter written before Eleanor leaves for work, so that she can mail it for me. I spent a very interesting afternoon at Hayes’s today at this luncheon affair she was having. Today she told me it was for me as she wanted me to meet her friends, and made me sit at the head of the table. Fine thing! Guess she didn’t think I’d come if she had told me that beforehand. It wasn’t too bad, tho, except that Edith brought up the New Deal and politics which wasn’t exactly the thing for her to do to a Democrat (her guest of honor)! Boy they sure ran them down. Maybe she intended to get an argument out of me, but I didn’t say a thing. They also brought up the subject of unfaithful war brides, and as I was the only one there, I felt that page 2 I should take it all in. They also mentioned a couple of war brides being kicked off a train on their way to see their husbands, for approaching other soldiers. I expect all these subjects were unintentional, but guess I just felt funny. I did meet a nice girl there tho (about 25 to 30 years old and married) who said she wanted to call me up, sometime. I think she said she once worked at Smith’s. I think her name’s Robinson, but not at all sure. She’s slender, tall and about my coloring. Think her first name was Helen. Do you know anyone by that name? Veda was there and Lil De Young and a couple of others that I can’t remember their names. Understand that Mrs. Smith on Lowe Ave. has a job as a bookkeeper someplace on 115th Street starting last Monday. These old gals are really getting the breaks now. Edith Hayes wants to go to work too, she says. I’m still waiting for a letter from you telling me what to do about page 3 coming down there. If I don’t make reservations pretty soon I won’t be able to get them. I understand that I can’t make return reservations until I get there, and also heard it’s practically impossible to get back once you’re there. That means my visit to you may be extended. Talked to Ray Hitchcock’s mother today and she said that Ray is home. He came in last Thursday. Some people sure are lucky. Maybe our time will come too - eventually. I bought lining for Ronnie’s coat today, so hope to finish it tonite - maybe. Edith Kuester called me today and wondered how you were getting along. She thought that by this time you’d have a medical discharge. She talked and talked and talked and I was on pins and needles as I was due at Hayes’ then. I did get there fifteen minutes late. I like Edith Kuester, tho, she seems very nice. Mr. Peterson, a salesman from Brant’s called today and asked if I’d page 4 reconsider selling our house. He had a buyer from Akron, Ohio, who thought it ideal, as they had a housekeeper who could use the upstainrs room and also a son. He said they had money and would pay our price and [in] cash. I said "no" of course, as I didn’t think you wanted to. He felt pretty bad about it. Murray hasn’t had a prospect for some time, Marge said, altho some one is going to look at their’s tonite. Well Elinor is leaving, so adios and sweet dreams, honey. Lovingly, Monnie and Ronnie P.S. I had a dream about you the other nite -- oh boy! ...

30 Mar March 30, 1944

Posted at 13:52h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 30th, 1944 Thursday, 12:00 midnight. Noteworthy: Mom takes Dad down a notch. Darling, Rec’d your scathing letter saying that I haven’t been writing to you, etc. Boy, can you lay it on! And here I’m entirely innocent, as I try to write every day. I also rec’d the letter written last Sunday saying you rec’d 3 letters at once. I hope you feel pretty bad about bawling me out again! Sometimes I think you have no faith in me what-so-ever, and my thinking that isn’t exactly conducive to my having faith in you, now is it? After all faith and trust should be mutual or we might as well give up. I also rec’d your card at the same time as the two letters, so you see I haven’t had any mail for 4 days, until today. Guess you know by now that air mail is 8 cents. You have to put a regular 2- cent stamp on besides the 6-cent air mail. Costs me a dollar a week - almost to write you. Aren’t you flattered? I will call Billings in the page 2 morning and find out about your tablets. I doubt if they’ll recommend them without a blood count tho. Do you want your salve for the itch? The prescription salve is what I mean! I’m sorry you couldn’t get out last week-end, but maybe it was for the best, as the date I’m coming may be changed. If you still want me to come on April 22nd, I s’pose I can take a chance, but I won’t feel so bad, I warn you, and I get pretty crabby, too, and might pick a fight. We all (Elinor, the Pages etc) get along fine here and I’m not fooling you one bit. Tonight Mrs. Page brought a fresh butter roll down for me to eat before I went to bed. She had bought some on her way home from work. She’s been working every day the past two weeks, so don’t see much of them except when they come and leave. They are very nice and seem very much interested in Ronnie[,] and Elinor is winning him completely. She says now she has taken Ronnie away from me and when you get home she’ll win you away too. I’m worried! Guess I’ll have to throw her out. Or should I let her have you? I haven’t seen Ray or Sally as yet, altho he is home. If they don’t come over, I won’t let you go see Sally when you get home. - So there too! It’s 1:10 A.M. already, so I’ll have page 3 to hurry and get to bed quick! I just had a nice Lux bath and brushed my hair and fixed my nails etc., and brushed my teeth. I just am awfully clean right now. I’m sitting here in my pajamas and robe and no one here to appreciate all my efforts. - what a life! Sure gets lonesome nites when Elinor is on the nite shift. I finished Ronnie’s coat and hat today. Everyone seems to think it’s pretty cute - even Ronnie. Tomorrow I’m going to make a pr of short pants to match as I have some material left. He’ll be all decked out for Easter. He sure can pose when he gets something new. I can’t seem to find any white shorts in your size anywhere either in cloth or knit. I’ll try again, tho. Hope they’ll find your laundry for you real soon. Rec’d income tax blanks today. I’m sending them to you. Do we have to page 4 disclose the income I have from apt. upstairs and from Elinor? Let me know! I’m sending [an] article from [the] Tribune on income tax. Don’t know if it applies to us or not. You asked if Ronnie is over his cold. Yes, he’s fine now. Couldn’t be better. He eats like a pig. I’m getting over my cold, too, at least I feel a lot better. I just can’t let it get me down. Elinor is over her cold, too. You asked about Judy. She’s fine! She sure barks too much, tho. I’m sorry she’s not on those pictures. Guess I forgot all about her. I was sitting sewing in the big chair today and all of a sudden I heard Ronnie talking, and I listened. He said, "Hello, Daddy, how are you, Daddy? - I’m fine." That was just out of a clear sky. Made me want to cry. This morning he woke me up singing, "People will say we’re in love." He was sitting up in his crib. Then he looked at me and sang, "No love, no nuthing." He picks the words up listening to Elinor singing and also the radio. He’s a card! Bye Darling and hope you’ll be very much alive even after this week. Kisses Mom and Ronnie. It’s 1:40 a.m. P.S. Would you want me to come on the 26th and take a chance, hoping I’ll be okay by then? Let me know! ...

31 Mar March 31, 1944

Posted at 18:03h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 31st, 1944 Friday 1:30 P.M. Noteworthy: Mom talks about her loneliness. Dear Daddy, Rec’d your letter today, written on Tuesday, and as you suggested, I made reservations for Friday morning (April 21st) and will be in St. Augustine April 22nd (Saturday) 9:46 A.M. Sure wish you could be there to meet me, but I s’pose there will be no such luck. I’m coming on the Dixie Flagler on the C. E. and I Railroad. Please let me know [at] what hotel etc. you’ve made reservations as I will be very tired and so will Ronnie, so would like to go to bed right away, so I can stay up late. Ronnie will probably have to stay up late too, as he won’t have anyone to care for him. I’d like to visit Silver Springs while I’m there. Suppose we can manage it? They say it is a beautiful place to see. Don’t go there until I come, so we can see it together. page 2 If weather permits (we had a blizzard yesterday - snow a foot deep) I’d like to go to Rockford the latter part of next week and stay over Easter Sunday. Otherwise it will be a lonesome weekend as Eleanor is going home and I think the Pages will be gone. I don’t think I could stand it on Easter. I remember last Easter the beautiful plant you sent me and our going to church etc., and probably have the blues and cry all day. It isn’t so bad when other people are around, it seems. I would see Elsie from Beloit probably[,] and as her husband, Joe, is in the Navy, we can sympathize with one another. Well, Darling, bye, now, and be a good boy, and we’ll see you soon. Only three more weeks now. Ronnie is at the window showing Teddy Bear the "choo-choos", he’s so sweet! I’m going to get him a haircut next week. Bye, all our love, mom and Ronnie. P.S. Dr. Rathburn is calling me back at 5:30 tonight as it seems they can’t locate your history chart until then. We’ll write you soon as I hear. Love, Mom P.P.S. I’m enclosing some two-cent stamps, so you won’t have to use 26-cent stamps on my letters. Put one six-cent airmail and one of these two-cent stamps on and that’s all you need, or if you are using airmail envelopes, use only [one] two-cent stamp. ...

01 Apr April 1, 1944

Posted at 18:00h in Letters

Letter from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 1, 1944 Sat Nite 1:00 A.M. (I mean Sunday) Darling, I hope you haven’t made any reservations, as I won’t be able to get to Florida after all. I can’t tell you why, but just can’t make it! I’m sorry I thought I’d better let you know. S’pect by this time you could choke me. (April Fool!) I’m sorry if I scare you, but just couldn’t resist the temptation of an April Fool joke. I guess I told you I’ve already bought the tickets, and will leave Friday, Apr. 21st, 8:00 A.M. and will be in at 9:46 Sat. morning, April 22nd. You didn’t answer my question as to how much money I’ll need to take along. Will $50 be enough, or should I take more? I doubt if I’ll have much more, as I’ll have gas, light and telephone (with 2 Florida calls on it) bills, to pay about that time. page 2 If you don’t think it will be enough I’ll try to borrow some money somehow. Eleanor, Oralee and I went to the Parkway Theater tonite and saw "Sahara" with Humphrey Bogart and "Young Ideas" with Mary Esther [Astor] and Herb Marshall. Both pretty good shows. The only bad feature was that we were 5 rows from the front and my eyes hurt terribly right now. Then we went to Englewood for a sandwich. Mrs. Page was home all evening, so she said she’d look in on Ronnie. I called June last night and she wasn’t home and her grandmother said she’d have her call me as soon as she got home. I haven’t heard from her yet. She sure is getting independent! She had told Eleanor one night about how hard it is for people to get help, now, so I guess she figures she can get by with anything. Eleanor wants to go to bed, so guess I can’t write much more. I bought a pr of white shoes for Ronnie and also a pair of brown page 3 shoes for myself. I couldn’t get alligator, so I got alligator-calf. They were only $16.95, so guess I’ll have to wait till next year to get the real thing. They’re a naturalizer shoe, so hope they’re comfortable. I had a coat picked out, a gold - colored Chesterfield and paid a deposit on it at Bonds, but got cold feet or guilty conscience or something, and went down and canceled it and got my deposit back. It was $39.95, so was afraid you’d think it extravagant. I hated to give it up, but guess it was for the best. I’m silly, aren’t I? So I’ll wear my old coat and pretend on Easter that I’m all dressed up. I’m definitely going home this week, about Wed. or Thursday, so don’t attempt to call me this week-end. Oralee will come to Rockford on Saturday and will ride back with me on Sunday, which will make me feel better about going. She’ll undoubtedly drive back, so I can relax at least one way. page 4 I’m getting pretty good tho, as I drove down to 63rd to pick up my railroad tickets and Ronnie’s shoes. I was lucky I got them yesterday, as another 5% tax went into effect today on railroad tickets. I saved $2.50 by getting them yesterday. I talked to Dr. Rathburn and he did not advise taking those tablets unless you were under Army Medical Care. He also said to go to sickbay, show them the letter he gave you. He said it definitely makes you a 4-F, and said you should stop being a hero, and think of your health first. He said he knew a good dermatologist in Tampa, Florida, (which is far from you, isn’t it), but said you shouldn’t go to a civilian doctor anyway while you’re in the Army. Would you want me to send you any of that salve ( white stuff) you wer[e] using? Well, honey, I’m so-sleepy and my eyes are sore, so all my love, Ronnie and Mommy. P.S. Ronnie looks so cute in his new outfit. Hope you like it. P.S. Your nurse-friend (Segars is her name) came over today. She didn’t know you were in the Army. Said she would write to you. Hey, does that mean I can write to my old boyfriend, too? ...

02 Apr April 2, 1944

Posted at 16:20h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 2nd, 1944 Sunday night, 10:30 p.m. Hello honey, How is my husband? Fine, I hope. Just can’t get used to calling you that. But so be it. After about 50 years of married life, I’ll probably call you most anything. I’ve been thinking of you all week. I’m wondering how you came out on the rifle range and whether or not you survived the ordeal. I secretly think, tho, that you came out on top. How is the dermititis now? I really sympathize, as it must be awful not to be able to sleep now when you work hard all day. Maybe you should go to sickbay and see if they can fix you up. I s’pose that’s harder than ever to do now as your schooling has begun and you will miss out on classes. I guess you’ll have to do as you think best. I of course want you here with me and would page 2 of course advi[s]e you to try to get a discharge, but then again, I don’t want you to be considered a "gold brick" either. I am sending you a Pkg. and hope you will get it right away, as it is perishable. So handle with care when you get it, it might break. Please keep it right side up, if possible. Marge stopped in today to sew some things on my sewing machine. Then Edith and Ernest and Joan Hayes and a Mrs. Guilpaul (or something) was with them. I of course was in a dither as I was baking a cake and had chicken, vegetable and potatoes on the stove, salad on the table. Ronnie had put up a fuss about going to bed etc. They would walk in at the darndest times. Of course Ronnie heard them and wouldn’t go to sleep all afternoon. Even tonight he had a time going to sleep. Poor kid! He has ideas of his own about page 3 what he wants to do now sometimes. Really has a temper at times. Does he get that from you? Of course most of the time he’s a pretty good boy. Only thing is he starts throwing things when he doesn’t get his own way and I wish I knew how to break him of it. At times like this, I wish you were here. So you throw things when you get angry? Gosh, I hope not! I s’ose maybe I would if I got real mad, but as yet I haven’t - thank goodness! Just washed and waxed the kitchen floor tonight, as I’m home alone and always work when I should be relaxing. I get too lonesome when I just sit around. Eleanor and Murray are on six days a week again starting tonight, so I’m alone 6 nights a week now instead of five, which make it bad. Have you heard from Gladys if Dick passed his physical? I may go out there week-end after Easter if all goes well, altho I doubt if Marge and page 4 Murray will be going out there, as Murray has to go to work on Sunday nite. Guess I’ll take the South Shore, and they can meet me. Guess Murray is going to stay at Pullman now as they are thinking of having 4-F’s drafted for war work anyway soon. He doesn’t know just what to do I guess. He hasn’t found a buyer yet for his house. What kind of clothes do you advi[s]e me to take with me for Ronnie and me? Is it or will it be real warm, or will spring clothes do? (Wool suites etc.) Are they wearing white down there? Do you think Ronnie or I will need sun suits or swimming suits? Are you wearing summer dress uniforms? Let me know so I won’t bring unnecessary luggage. Should I bring Ronnie’s toilet seat? Guess I’ll have to at that. Fern got her divorce or rather Jack did. They had quite a write-up about her in the "Sun" as a war bride who married only for the allotment etc. She was rather embarrassed, I guess. Will see you soon and keep your fingers crossed. Love, Mom and Ronn[y] P.S. I’m still going to Rockford Wed. or Thurs. and stay until Sunday afternoon when Oralee will ride back with me. ...

03 Apr April 3, 1944

Posted at 14:21h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-3-44, Monday 8:30 p.m. Noteworthy: Army punishment for stealing. Dear Alice and Ronnie, No letter today, but since I feel pretty good tonight, will write anyway and try to make up a little for last week. We had an easy day today - 6 hrs of classes 1 hr of bayonet practice, and 1 hr of pictures. Thought we would get off easily for a change, but instead they held us for two hours while they searched every hut and all personal property. Seems someone stole a watch yesterday and they were trying to find the thief. They didn’t find him. They are really tough on thieves in the army. Just the other day they caught a fellow stealing a watch. They gave him five years hard labor and a dishonorable discharge. page 2 Don’t think I would want to take the shame myself. We finally got to eat about 7 p.m. and have been cleaning my rifle since. Cleaning our rifles is like washing dishes, the only difference is they are inspected and if they are not up to par 100% we get to do it all over again plus some extra detail if they are dirty enough. We got our first glimpse of what our special training is going to be like for the next 11 weeks today. Certainly looks like it will be much easier than the last five weeks has been but sitting in a classroom all day gets mighty hard on the do-sitter, especially with my itch. Sams - you know him - had his wife down this week-end. Poor guy - it rained all week-end besides just getting in off the rifle range Sat at 2:30. He was so tired he said he wasn’t much good. Then of course he was held along with the rest of page 3 us while they were looking for that thief tonight. After that, he had to clean his rifle. He went without supper and still didn’t get away before 8 p.m. That’s the damn army for you. You can’t plan on anything definite. If they want you to stay in camp you stay wife or no wife. Certainly hope I don’t get any such breaks when you get here. The only thing I am really afraid of is guard duty. I am going to be about due in two or three weeks and that’s something you can’t get out of. I’ve got my fingers crossed. By the way, when you come be sure and bring the alarm clock. When I stay at the guest house with you I will have to have it as they don’t wake you and page 4 if I miss roll call I will be AWOL. Better write down the things you are to bring. So far be sure and bring camera and film and alarm clock. Money of course. I spent $10 in St. Augustine. We got paid Friday. I got $20.80. Since I was broke I now have $10 left. By the time you get here most of that will be gone, I imagine. I spend most of my money on food. We never seem to get filled up. I weighed 140 pounds in St. Augustine. Guess what[,] I took off my middle. I have added else where. Well I have to shave and take a bath so enough for now. Ronnie[,] how are you and Eleanor getting along? Does she behave herself and run all your errands for you? How’s Judy too? Have you given her a bath yet? I hope you and Bobby are getting lots of fresh air. Be a good boy and you’ll get to see your daddy soon now. Bye-bye. Daddy. Attachment, possibly misenveloped letter page 5 friendly neighbors. Did Ray H get home and did they come over. How does he like the Navy and and what is he doing. Sounds to me like Jack Waters is kinda of taking advantage of a good thing. If the pump doesn’t work I would certainly see that he comes back - Free. I am sorry about the things getting ruined. Guess it would be a good idea to put things up a little off the floor. Are you going over to Hayes’? Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad. As for anyone asking for donations tell them to go next door or someplace else where the money is rolling in. Besides, so far the Red Cross has done absolutely nothing for me. Not that I don’t think it is a good cause but I do think we are doing our share. Let me know about the reservations right away because when I go to page 6 St Augustine next week I will want to make hotel reservations. Glad you got your driver’s license. If you go to Rockford go straight west on 111th Street to the end of road. Then turn South 1 block across bridge[,] then turn right on route 83 which takes you in a a partial circle around the outskirts of [the] city and in a Northerly direction until you come to route 64. You remember it is about two miles North of the sign saying Villa Park. Turn West on route 64 until you come to that road 50 isn’t it? That takes you straight North in to Rockford. By all means start early in enough so you won’t have to drive at nite. As for going to a gynecologist that isn’t necessary for me. You see I have proof. As for you, that’s up to you. I know a little about Dr. McCormick if it is the one on Michigan Ave. Henry jostes knows him well. He is their Doctor. Seemes he helped his wife. ...

04 Apr April 4, 1944

Posted at 15:02h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George Shonkwiler April 4th, 1944 Tuesday, 7 o’clock p.m. Hello Daddy, How is everything by now? Do you feel any better? Stomach dermatitis I mean? I rec’d a card dated last Sunday saying you were calling me. What happened? Couldn’t you get thru? Did you go to see Mrs. Dawson, and did you make any reservations? I’ve mailed four pkgs to you today, so I hope you get at least some of them for Easter. Two of them I have written "this side up" on them, so be careful when you open them and don’t throw them around. These two are boxes, the other two are just paper wrapped and you don’t have to be careful with them. You say you wish the picture on the postcard could do you some good. page 2 Did you mean the "fountain of youth" or the girl standing by it. (Be more explicit next time - please.) Yesterday I had a permanent and did some shopping for you and was also busy wrapping etc. in the evening, so didn’t get a chance to write. Sorry, honey, but I’m sure when you get the packages, you’ll realize I put in a day’s work for you, anyway, so you will forgive me, I’m sure. In fact, I was still busy at 2:00 a.m. and up again at 6:30 this morning. Ronnie had a haircut today, and didn’t cry at all. His lower lip quivered a little, but the barber was so nice to him he got over it and was so good. I went to the same place as I did last time (on 119th) and he sure is nice to children. He’s so patient and keeps talking to ’em etc. I hope the things I’m sending you are O.K. If not return them, Will you? I can exchange them. page 3 We just finished dinner. Had Swiss steak, browned potatoes and carrots and cake and ice-cream and coffee. Sounds good? It was no fooling. Sure wish you were here to have some. I’m going home Thursday and coming back Sunday night with Oralee, so don’t try to call me. Gladys sent me a card saying Dick passed his physical and is in the army. She also asked me to ride out with Murray and Marge Easter Sunday, but Marge had told me last Sunday that they wouldn’t be going out, so I went ahead and wrote to Chuck and my Aunt that I’d be in Thursday. I wrote Gladys and told her I’d come out on the South Shore the following Sunday if she wished. Well Eleanor is mailing this, so guess I’ll have to stop. Bye Darling and I’ll be seeing you soon. Always love, Ronnie and Mommy ...

04 Apr April 4, 1944

Posted at 14:26h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-4-44, 8 p.m. Tuesday Noteworthy: Some of Dad’s child rearing wisdom; what Ronnie got from his first Mommy. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Three letters today. They seem to come in clusters. One special delivery mailed Mar 31st, one special mailed April 2nd and one airmail mailed yesterday. Guess it doesn’t pay to send them special delivery. Anyhow, I was glad to get them all even if one of them was kinda tough in spots. We changed to summer uniforms yesterday. Today it has been cold as hell. But as a whole the weather is pretty warm. Most of the women I see here all are wearing summer clothing. Most of them have spring coats. I think regular late spring Chicago clothing would be appropriate. page 2 Sounds like Ronnie is going to be all decked out. As for money - I doubt if $50 will be enough. But if that’s all you have, we will make it do some way. As for the income tax report - to hell with it. If they want to come and get me out of the army for not filing one, they are welcome to do it. None of the other boys here are filing one either. Suppose you will either be in Rockford or on your way by the time this reaches you. I’ll keep my fingers crossed until I hear you are both home safe. Please be careful and drive slow. Glad Onslee can come back with you. I am disappointed Dr. Rathburn wouldn’t help me out as I had counted on it pretty much. No use sending me anything. I’ll just go along as long as I can and when it gets too bad will go to page 3 the hospital. Maybe by that time some thing will come up so everything will work out alright. Who knows[,] maybe the war will be over. I haven’t received the package yet. Am waiting patiently by. It’s more than my turn to have something to pass around. So even though I know now, I won’t get much of what ever it is it will be appreciated all around. So Ronnie has a temper - the only remedy for that is a good spanking at the right time. The throwing he got from his first mommy, I guess. She used to do that once in a while. So Eleanor is out after both of us. Tell her we men can take care of her alright never worry. I haven’t heard from Gladys since the first week here. Suppose she is page 4 pretty busy. Especially if Dick is going to the army. Sounds to me like Fern is getting her just dues. For some reason I don’t feel sorry for that babe one little bit. Well my dears, we just got orders we have to scrub the oil spots off of our floor 8:30 p.m. So that means no more letter writing tonight. Just another hour’s work. The army is really nice. Oh yes, they still haven’t returned my laundry. Won’t be long now until you are here - I am counting the days. Just hope I get a decent break those two week-ends. Bye, bye, now and lots of love to both of you. Daddy ...

04 Apr April 4, 1944

Posted at 17:18h in Letters

card, Easter from: George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler April 4, 1944 (cover page) Happy Easter Dear Wife (page 2) May Easter dawn merrily, happily, cheerily, Bringing real joy, dear Wife, to you, For I know that you’re nearer and sweeter and dearer Every day that goes by the year through. Your Wesley ...

05 Apr April 5, 1944

Posted at 14:29h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-5-44, 7:30 p.m. Wed. Noteworthy: some descriptions of basic training. Dad makes a bit of a threat. Dear Alice, No letter again today, but since I am so kind-hearted, I will write anyway, as I don’t think I will get a chance to write for the next three days. So maybe this will have to do for the week. To-morrow, Friday [Thursday] and all day Saturday [Friday ?], we finish up our shooting. We fire different kinds of guns, bazookas, hand grenades, anti-tank guns, and so on. And then I guess we are really through with our basic. In fact, we have already started our special training. We have had organizations of message center companies, our duties and operations and so far two hours of Morse code this week. So far, it is all very interesting - We sit in individual booths with page 2 Headphones on and take down letters from the telegraphy. For instance, Dah, Dah means Mike or M. Dah means Tare or T. In other words, each letter of the alphabet is a full word. However, we only use the first letter. Phonetic alphabet goes something like this: A-Able; B-Baker; C-Charlie; D-Dog; E-Easy and so on. We are taught Morse code by using phonetic alphabet. May sound a little complicated but I think I am grasping it all right. They claim we have to be able to send and receive a minimum of 8 words per min. to get through the course. Tomorrow and Sat. will be tough days. We march out with full packs and rifle[,] 58 pounds[,] six miles, fire all day and then back at nite. This time we are carrying field rations so you can imagine how well we are going to eat. Food hasn’t been so hot lately as it is. Besides the weather has been lousy - cold as hell and no heat of any kind. We are cold all day. The only time we are warm is in bed. I sleep with heavy woolen underwear two army blankets and heavy robe and this isn’t any too much. They can have all of Florida they want, especially this part of it. I’ve got my fill. Received a card from Gladys tonight saying Dick was going in the army in three weeks. I only hope he doesn’t get in a rifle company in the infantry. The little rifle company basics we received was enough for me. We had two hours of bayonet practice along with some actual war pictures showing bayonets being used. That’s something else I don’t ever want to run up against. The bayonet is one of the rifle company’s page 3 main weapons. And used right it is very effective. According to what we have learned, the past three days about Message Center men we will never do any fighting except in extreme cases. However, if we are unfortunate enough to be placed with a battalion instead of a regiment we are pretty close to the lines and as messengers may come in contact with the enemy. Of course, if we are not messengers but stay behind as decode, encode men or are given ratings of Sergeant we won’t be as bad. Well, time will tell. Suppose you are in Rockford by now and having a good time. At least I hope you arrived there safely. Take it from granted you know enough to behave yourself. God help you if you don’t. Haven’t received any package yet. Am waiting patiently. It could come in handy any day this week. Did I ever tell you not to send me any house slippers. I bought a pair from one of the boys here. How are you tonight, Ronnie, old boy? Give Mommy a big kiss for Daddy and then let Mommy give you one for me. Good nite, Daddy ...

06 Apr April 6, 1944

Posted at 13:49h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George Shonkwiler April 6th, 1944 Darling, I arrived in Rockford this afternoon at 2:30 P.M. All in one piece, too. Ronnie went to sleep on the way for about an hour. We went the way you told us and stopped in St. Charles for lunch. We had fruit salad, soup, milk, toast and coffee. Ronnie was such a good boy all the way. We left Chicago about 11:30 and stopped about 45 minutes in St. Charles. There was very little traffic, so I didn’t have much trouble. Didn’t even get lost. Isn’t that wonderful? Went out to see Eleanor Johnson, but she wasn’t home. I’d drive along and see someone I knew and stop and chat. Sure was fun to see old friends. I want to mail this right away before the post office closes, so I can’t make it very long. Oralee isn’t coming to Rockford page 2 as Fred doesn’t get off this week-end. So I’m staying here till Monday morning, so I can avoid holiday traffic. I think that’s best. I also am going to see Elsie Redditis on Sunday. She’s coming to Rockford to see me. I’ll write more tonight or in the morning, as I just wanted you to know I got here safely. Bye, honey -- and I love you so much and so does Ronnie. I’m certainly envious of all these gals here in Rockford who still have their husbands at home. Bye, Love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

07 Apr April 7, 1944

Posted at 15:08h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George Shonkwiler April 7th, 1944, Friday, 10:00 P.M. Darling, I’m writing this in bed and Ronnie is sound asleep. He was pretty tired, as he’s been out all day. He had a nap this afternoon tho. Elinor Johnson asked me over there for lunch and dinner today, so I’ve been gone since 10:30 A.M. until 9:30 tonite. Jack was s’posed to go [into the military], but asked for 60 days to clear up his business. He got six months! Imagine! Pays to live in Rockford page 2 I guess. I think he has connections, as his late father was quite well known, also has a lot of influential relatives. Elinor’s brother is in [the military], and he has never been well, has a bad heart and has had several operations lately, ruptured appendix, etc. He’s 32 and has a 19 mo. old son. He’s in the regular infantry and has fainted several times during basic training, so they put him in limited service. He is sure in the "dumps." You should hear his letters! Makes his wife, mother and everyone worry to death. Anyway Elinor and Jack are taking this vacation together up page 3 North this year. They were so s’prised that you were in the army. Tomorrow I’m having lunch with Vy and am going to Kathryn Lord’s house at 2:00 PM. and will meet Elsie Reddite at 6:30. Ronnie will have his nap while Vy and I have lunch, so he won’t suffer. What a schedule I’m keeping. Sure is fun seeing all the old gang. Makes me wish I were living here, as I don’t see much of anyone in Chicago. Of course most of all I wish you were home again and this war over, so all the boys can come home and make mothers, wives, and page 4 sweethearts happy again. Here I go getting sentimental and stuff! Could you make reservations on the Dixie-Flagler, (C and E. I. R.R.) for my return trip? I hope so, as I can’t make them here. My ticket number is 3616. See if you can, as they say, if I wait til I get down [there] it may take months or weeks before I can get back. It’s Chicago and Eastern Ill. Railroad and the train is Dixie-Flagler. You can call on the phone and make reservations from camp. I think. I’m going home Mon. A.M. Bye, honey and don’t forget us. Love, Mommy and Ronnie. P.S. Chuck and Betty saw Fred with a babe last Sat. nite. He told Oralee he couldn’t get in. Wondering if that’s what’s keeping him this week-end. Hope you don’t ever do that! ...

07 Apr April 7, 1944

Posted at 15:04h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-7-44, 9 p.m. Friday. Dear Alice and Ronnie, No letter yesterday, but I got a nice big box - cake and candy. We had had a pretty tough day, and when we came in, we <? marched> in for a record[,] 4 miles with a full pack (58 lbs) in 46 minutes. We got in about 7 p.m. dead tired, had a lousy supper and then I opened your package. I’m telling you, we really made short work of that cake. I think I got two fair-sized pieces. I thought it was pretty good myself but the way the guys all raved I guess it really was excellent. The thick icing had kept it nice and fresh and it wasn’t crushed. No kidding, it was good, and really appreciated. The candy too. Then today I got two more packages. The underwear and towels. They look O.K. I opened the other package and held my breath all the time. I knew darn well it would be an angel food cake. It was. We took a vote and decided to wait until tomorrow nite to eat page 2 that as tomorrow we spend our last day on the range and it will be a long day. We never eat very well when we are out on the range so the cake will just hit the spot when we get in. Then too, some of the guys will be going out on passes and maybe if enough of them go I won’t have to divide with so many and I might get more than one piece. Anyhow, I know now that it is going to be very good and you don’t know how much I appreciate them. 1n fact all of us. It does make up for the slowing down a little in the number of letters received this week. So far only two which is a pretty slim week. Tomorrow is the last day of our sixth week or the end of our basic. They claim we are over the worst with the exception of our two-week bivouac the 15th and 16th week. I guess I will be able to take about anything they have now. If it weren’t for my itch I think it would be a breeze from here on. As it is, I am getting by with not too much sleep and a lot of scratching. My stomach is O.K. as long as I behave with my eating and drinking. I got a letter from Norma today[,] the second one without me writing her. You see how much time I have to write. Will try to write her this week-end if I page 3 don’t get any detail work. I am about due for K.P. and two or three other detail jobs around camp. Certainly hope I get these over with before the 21st. I’m afraid it’s going to be just my luck to get them about then. So you and Ronnie both got your hair all fixed up and new Easter outfits and everything. Certainly wish I could be there to see both of you. Guess I’ll have to step out in the Easter parade with my best summer tans and go to church with some of the boys here. I’ve never gone to church since coming here so guess Sunday would be a good time to go at least once during my army life. I am enclosing Norma’s letter and also one she enclosed to me from Anna Perkins. She was the first lady’s house we all got out of car and went into when we made that trip to Raub last spring remember. The son she talks page 4 about is the one on the police force. That certainly is a blow to her. And I’ll bet has been a choice bit of gossip in the town all winter. I really feel sorry for her[.] Anyway he did right by the gal even though he does have some one else - I guess. Can hardly wait until I get a letter saying you arrived in Rockford safely and then back home again. Maybe you will find that you can drive down here in June after all. Certainly hope so because the extra few days we will have together then maybe the last for a long time as we are definitely being groomed for overseas duty. We were given some literature the other day on how to act and what not to write and so forth when we get ready to go across. And then it is being pounded in our heads every day that this is tough here but is soft compared to what is coming when we leave this country. Well we get up at 5 A.M. in the morning and since it’s 10 P.M. now it’s time I turned in. So bye for now and only two weeks to go now and then maybe I’ll have someone to help me keep warm for a few nites. Give Ronnie a big kiss for me and thanks again for the cakes Mommy. Daddy. ...

08 Apr April 8, 1944

Posted at 15:06h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 8, 1944 Sat. Nite - 12:00, Midnite Dearest, It’s Sat. nite and although I’m in Rockford I received two letters and a nice Easter card from you this afternoon. You see I left spec. Delivery stamps with Elinor and told her to forward any mail from you. I certainly hope you got all my pkgs for Easter as I had planned that they would. I tried to get a card too, but it seemed I couldn’t get anything very nice, so let it go and sent the cakes and things instead. Were they terribly stale - hope not! Well, any way you could eat the candy. I spent a $1.32 postage on the cake alone, isn’t that terrific. Ronnie got a beautiful Easter basket from Chuck and Betty. It’s a real finely woven brown varnished sewing basket filled with candy, bunnies, eggs, etc. and tied with big white and red cellophane. I didn’t buy a thing for either Ronnie or Patsy as I page 2 figured they wouldn’t eat candy anyway. I did buy Patsy a sun suit and bonnet tho. Elinor wanted to get Ronnie an Easter bunny, so I couldn’t buy that. He won’t get it till he gets home tho. Ronnie has had an exciting day. Vy, Ronnie and I went out for lunch today, then at 2:30, we went up to see Kathryn Lord[;] and her husband enlisted for a Navy commission and they are waiting for it to come thru. He had only three years of college tho, so they aren’t sure he’ll get it. They’re selling their furniture, so if he doesn’t[,] they’re out of luck. They’ve sold only half so far and already got $220.00 more than they paid for it. And it’s about a year old, or more. Tonight Elsie, Nell and another girl and I were going to a show, but Chuck and Betty went out so, didn’t have anyone to care for Ronnie, so we called it off. Nell and this other girl went, but Elsie, Ronnie and I went to a confectionery and had ice cream and went over to her folks for a while, then home page 3 again. Such an exciting Saturday nite. I hadn’t seen Nell for about 3 years, so would liked to have seen her. Remember when I told you about her husband who went into the bedroom after supper and shot himself? She has a little child of two. She swears to this day she doesn’t know why he did it, as it was a complete surprise to her. I knew him well and can’t figure it out either. I’ve heard it was because he had gotten some girl in trouble, but it seems he could have figured out a better way out of it than that. Weren’t you surprised about Oralee’s husband Fred stepping out? No wonder he didn’t want her to come in this week-end either. If I ever heard you did that, I’ll get out of your way so fast, that it would make your head swim and I’ll never have faith in another man ever again. As it is, I know you wouldn’t, and knowing that I’d never do it either. I know that it only causes unhappiness and there are enough things to worry page 4 about, without that too. Was sure surprised to see Kathryn, as she has gained 30 pounds since she got married and isn’t half the pretty girl she was when she weighed 110. She hasn’t any children either so that isn’t it. Sure hope I don’t gain weight. I’m going to stay eating right now Is this a morbid letter! I’d give almost anything to have you here right now, honey. Seems even tho you’re away, I love you more every day, and both Ronnie and I miss you terribly. Don’t worry, Wes, I’ll get back to Chicago safe and sound. Even Vy (and she’s driven for about 15 years) said I was a good driver. You can’t believe it I s’pose!-- either can I! Bye, and thanks again for the sweet Easter greeting. Guess you do think of me at times, huh? All our love, Mom and Ronnie P.S Elinor, Johnny, Vy, Chuck and Betty all want me to say hello to you. Vy is leaving for California (San Francisco) a week from Tuesday. She’s going to stay there this time she says. ...

09 Apr April 9, 1944

Posted at 13:46h in Letters

Letter from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 9th, 1944, Sunday night (Easter Sunday) Hello Honey, Here I am again and still in Rockford. It’s 10:30 p.m. and I’m in bed already, so you can see how much I misbehave! Had quite a big day today in spite of the fact it rained all day and is still raining. What weather for Easter? Of course, it rains every Easter, so I’m not surprised. Remember last year how it poured down when we went to church. We got up at 10:30 this morning. Ronnie slept until then, too. Imagine? We had breakfast about 11:30 and then I took Ronnie along and we mailed you a letter, also stopped to see Lois Blade and her husband. They have a girl, 11 months old, dark hair, dimples, and big brown eyes. Chatted a while and Ronnie wet their rug. I was so embarrassed. He hasn’t done that for months, it seems. He was playing and got excited, I guess. Then at 4 o’clock, we, Chuck and Betty, page 2. Pat, Ronnie, and I went out for dinner downtown. We had fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, lettuce and tomato salad, hot rolls, cranberry sauce, angel food cake, and three cups of coffee. It was the most delicious meal I’ve eaten in a restaurant in years. If you ever get to Rkfd, I want you to eat there. I think the meal averaged qnly about a $1.05 per person. Chuck paid the bill, so I’m not sure, but think it was about that. A soldier talked to Ronnie (a Southerner) and played with him and told me he had one at home just like him. Sure made me think of you doing the same down there if you saw a little boy Ronnie’s age. I’m leaving in the morning if it stops raining, otherwise I won’t dare. My windshield wiper broke, but Chuck fixed it for me, thank goodness. It was nice to be here, but will be glad when I get home again. Tonight at 7:00 o’clock Ronnie and I went to see Marie and Don Albright who have a boy about 11 months old, and they gave us page 3 coffee, cake, cookies, and so on. We got home about 9:30 p.m. and Ronnie went right to sleep. Also this afternoon I visited next door, and their three sons were there with their wives, and one of the couples had a girl about 22 months old, about 3 inches taller than Ronnie, with curly blonde hair and blue eyes. She and Ronnie had a big time, only she was kind of shy. Two of the wives were expecting. Now these boys are 25, 27, and 30, and not one in the Army -- Imagine! One’s a punch press setup man and the other a shipping clerk. Figure that out! And the other’s a punch press operator. They do have a 21-year-old brother that’s missing overseas, tho. Been missing since Dec. when his boat was torpedoed. Seems they’re sure getting deferments in this town. In fact, all my friends here still have their husbands. One is a mailman, and he’s deferred, too. All depends on where you live, I guess! page 4 Got the blues tonite, I guess. This gloomy weather doesn’t help either. Judy insists on sleeping in my bedroom, here, and keeps me awake with her snoring -- darn it! Also Ronnie snuggled so close, I’m forced to sleep on the very edge, and don’t dare move all night long, for fear he’ll wake up. He even puts his hand, in mine while he’s sleeping, and keeps it there. Guess it makes him feel secure, or something. He sure has made a hit with all my friends. They all think he’s a pretty nice boy. Hope you got the cakes by now, and hope they were okay, and not too stale or broken, or anything. Did you find the knife with the layer cake? Thought you could cut it with that. Bye, darling, and be good daddy, and we’ll see you soon. As always, Ronnie and Mom ...

09 Apr April 9, 1944

Posted at 15:56h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-9-44 11 a.m. Sunday Dear Alice and Ronnie, Just returned from church and while the effect is still present will start this letter. This was my first time going to church in an army camp. It’s very much like church in civilian life only services are much shorter. Since this was Easter Sunday the place was jammed. There must have been 500 men jammed into a church normally seating about 200. The church is pretty nice and only a block away so guess there really is no excuse for me not going more often. Yesterday all day we fired anti-tank bazookas and rifle hand grenades and as I had expected had pretty poor meals. We certainly were glad we had saved the Angel food cake. After eating chow here in Co. area we took the cake over to PX and bought milk and did pretty well for ourselves. The cake was excellent. I just managed to get two fair sized pieces out of it <?but> I couldn’t dare holding out anymore as all the fellows in the hut stood around with their tongues hanging out page 2 so much that I just divided it up evenly and said come and got it. We finished it in one killing. You had a number of offers for new husbands in case I wanted to step aside. Tony, the father of five children, said he would take you over any time. And there were quite a few others. I told them as long as you sent me a cake once in a while guess I would hold on to you. I got another card from dad yesterday. Have you sent him the knife yet? When you come down please bring my cotton bath robe and some more handkerchiefs. I got the house slippers and underwear yesterday. Thanks. Too bad about the house slippers. I can’t very well wear two pairs. Can you get a refund on them if I send them back? How much did you pay for them? Maybe I can sell them here. I get K.P. tomorrow. So that’s one detail I won’t have to worry about while you are here. Now if I will only get guard duty before then I will be just about set. Anything else I might get I can get someone to take over for me with any kind of luck at all. page 3 Just had mail call and for the second straight day again no mail. Sunday is a bad day to receive no mail too. That’s about all we have to look forward to on Sundays. I had visions last nite of things that happened to you and Ronnie on your trip to Rockford. I’m certainly going to be relieved when I hear that you both are safely home. I suppose I shouldn’t be worrying so much but I am nevertheless. The weather has warmed up here a little and the last three days has [have] been pretty nice. Today is beginning to look very much like rain again so I suppose we are in for some more typical Florida wet sunshine. Did Tom <? Schountra> have to go to the Army? Haven’t heard from Murray since the first letter. Suppose I rubbed him the wrong way or he would have answered by this time[,] too bad, I feel so sorry. page 4 Did I tell you that our marching was pretty tough last nite. It was about 3 miles with a full pack at 140 cadence with the temperature about 80 degrees. There were 3 fellows in [the] hut next to ours passed out. No one in our hut passed out but we all felt pretty low. There were ten fellows transferred out of the company yesterday. For various reasons, mostly because they couldn’t take it, I guess. They claim they were sent to a rifle company where they probably will kill them or something. None of the fellows in our hut were transferred. Although we have one fellow who should have been. Well Ronnie, just think two weeks from now and you and mommy will be down here with Daddy and everything will be just dandy. I hope you are being a good little man and not causing mommy too much work. It’s almost time for show now so will bring this to a very rapid ending. You see I didn’t get up in time for breakfast. Sunday morning is the morning we can lay in bed. That’s what we do. Bye bye, Daddy ...

10 Apr April 10, 1944

Posted at 15:06h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-10- 44, Monday, 8:45, p.m. Noteworthy: florida heat takes a toll, more "stepping out" conversation. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Two letters tonight from Rockford one saying you had arrived, the others saying you were seeing the town. I certainly was relieved, but a little disappointed to hear Oralee was not going back with you. But if you can make it one way, guess you can get back O.K. Just hope you didn’t get lost trying to find your way in after arriving at [the] western edge of Chicago. I’ll lay a little bet now that you did. Or at least you didn’t come back in exactly the same way you went in [out]. It really doesn’t make any difference just so you got back safely. Today has been another pretty tough day. Bet you are getting tired of hearing that. But no kidding, instead of it getting easier as we had expected, it seems to get tougher. Of course, we are getting tougher each day and page 2 guess we like it pretty well. Anyway, as I told you I had K.P. today. We got up at 3:30 A.M. The company marched about 5 1/2 miles out to an anti-aircraft range and fired anti-aircraft guns all day. Since everyone here has to do it[,] about 2:30 p.m., they loaded the KP’s in a truck drove us out there too. We fired for about two hours and at 5 P.M. started back - marching this time. Today has been the hottest we have had - well over 80 degrees. One man passed out from heat prostration about noon and just before we started back, this evening another keeled over close to me. They carried him away absolutely out cold. They are both in the hospital tonight. Anyway we got in just 1 hr later there were plenty of ready to drop. The infantry is no soft touch - believe me. You see when I got your two letters tonight it helped things immensely. About Fred. Of course it’s very possible that he is stepping out but I wouldn’t jump at any conclusions. You know, judging too fast, very often leaves plenty of unnecessary trouble. Besides page 3 I remember distinctly once of <? guessing> Oralee with a man in her own home too - which is far worse to my <? juinv>. Nothing was ever said about that that I remember. Of course I am not suggesting that Oralee was stepping out or ever wanted him there but such things are talked about if seen by the right people. As for me, my dear, if you have been as good as I am and have been[,] you are perfect and as good as I’ll ever ask you to be. If you haven’t been, and I find out, it will be just T.S. which is a famous army expression used for those who have things happen to them that is really tough. It means "Tough Shit". However, I am not worried much. Because I believe you to be the utmost. I know you have a tough job there and probably feel at times maybe that a little extra entertainment would help but then I’m sure you remember that I also have a tough job here and some times page 4 when I get to thinking that maybe I may never return from this thing it isn’t any too encouraging. You know I have more to lose than you. There are two of you and I would never see again. There is only one of me. I can’t understand why you can’t get a return ticket to Chicago in Chicago[,] but if you can’t[,] I will try and see what I can do about getting you a return ticket. Don’t know when you expect to return but suppose it will be around the 30th. Will try for that date unless I hear differently from you at once. Well it’s 9:25 and 5 minutes until lights out and I have to shave yet so must bring this to an end. Have I asked you to bring my cotton bathrobe down with you. Better bring your bathing suit too. I’m counting the days now - hope you are are in good shape. Certainly am anxious to see both of you. Quite a few of the fellow’s wives have been down or are here now. It certainly makes us poor guys lonesome. Daddy ...

10 Apr April 10, 1944

Posted at 13:51h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 10, 1944 9:35 P.M. Monday Hello, honey, Well, I’m back safe and sound and we’re both in the best of health, so hope all your worries are over now. I didn’t have any trouble finding the way and today on the way back I must not have been going too fast, as the white State Police car passed me up. I did have a bit of trouble today tho, as I was making a "U" turn and went just a page 2 wee bit on the shoulder of the road and it was soft and my back wheel got stuck in the mud. A couple of fellows with a truck and chain pulled me out. I gave them a dollar, but guess they didn’t think it was very much, but after all it only took them 5 minutes. I was lucky to get out, anyway. Outside of that I had no trouble whatsoever. Does that make you happy? Murray was over this afternoon, and he said all you worried about was your car. Is that right? page 3 By the way he sold his house yesterday. He didn’t get $9,000, but he didn’t say how much he got. This couple he sold it to are about 50 years old, and they were concerned about whether or not this was a quiet neighborhood. Just wait till all the kids in the neighborhood start playing war like they did last year. Also Judy and Ronnie in the backyard raising Cain. (Will they be sorry!) I’m sure disappointed in page 4 having old folks for neighbors, but guess there’s nothing I can do. [I] Hope they aren’t disagreeable. Murray said they barely looked at the house. Didn’t even look in the bedrooms upstairs. Just said they’d take it. Of course he has to pay Brants a commission, as they sold it. These people had to move out of their apt. and were desperate for a place to live. I think he said the fellow is [a] manager of some Co. I can’t remember what tho. Ronnie got an Easter card from Marge and Murray and one page 5 from Oralee. Elinor gave him an adorable yellow bunny (about 18" long) with blue and red overalls on. Edamae gave him a white bunny eating an orange carrot modeled out of Castile Soap. Chuck and Betty gave him a big Easter basket of candy. Gene Gallacini brought a box of candies for him too, while I was in Rkfd. All in all Ronnie did all right for himself, don’t you think? He didn’t get anything from me except a coat, hat and trousers. He page 6 thinks they’re "pretty" anyway. Received your letter today saying the cakes got there O.K. I’m so glad, as I was sure they’d be a mess. You’re not kidding when you say they were O.K. are you? Was the icing on all the paper or still on the cake? I got the oranges. They came to $3.82. They’re very good, altho a few were spoiled. I gave a 1/2 doz to Murray and a 1/2 doz. to the Pages. Was that O.K.? They’re nice and juicy as we had some for dinner. I got a juice glass full from page 7 each orange. You should really have bought them for yourself tho, as you say you only get one a week at camp. Thanks lots for sending them as I appreciate them very much. I got the telephone bill today and it was $10.19. There’s a charge of $1.17 on Mar. 1st, is that the time you made an appt to call at 9:00 o’clock? Mar. 1st is on a Wed. so that must be it, and they charge you a $1.17 service charge. So page 8 be sure after this that you get <? thru> if you make an appt with the operator, as you have to pay this service charge even if you don’t talk to me. The two Florida calls came to $7.16. I also got the gas bill which is $27.82, and the electric bill is almost $7.00. I also have a grocery bill. By the time I pay all this, I’m beginning to wonder what we’re going to use for money in Florida. Guess I’ll worry about it when the time comes. I also owe Elinor $3.82 for the oranges. page 9 Chuck sold my vanity at home for ten dollars, so that helps. More than paid for my trip To Rockford. I had almost forgotten about it. Sure came in handy. Wish I could think of something else to sell around here. I’m going to wash and iron curtains and wash walls of living room and dining room for this week - envy me? Wish you were here to help! I’m going to mail this right away so I’ll tell Mrs. page 10 Page to watch Ronnie while I’m gone. Of course he’s sound asleep, but I don’t want to leave without telling her I’m going. Well, Bye, Sweetheart, and it won’t be long now, L-O-V-E Mommie and Ronnie ...

11 Apr April 11, 1944

Posted at 17:02h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-11-44, 10:30 p.m., Tuesday Noteworthy: more on the rigors of bootcamp. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Will start this tonight even though I’m pretty sure I won’t be able to finish. We have had a pretty tough day again - two speed marches 4 1/2 miles each - hot as hell. When I got in tonite I drank five cokes - that’s awful I know but we were really dry. You see we are allowed very little water to drink during the day and what they give us is filled with salt. It’s kind of tough, but really is best for us. We fired rifles today for the last time for some time I understand - for which I am very thankful. Today we had landscape target firing - if that means anything to you. It’s firing by squads at different targets at different ranges marked by the landscape. Very interesting and if it weren’t for the marching out to the various ranges[,] it wouldn’t be bad at all[,] as I enjoy firing the rifle. Then when we came in tonight we had to clean our rifle from page 2 stem to stern. First thing in the morning we have rifle inspection and it’s just T.S. if they catch any of us with dirty rifles. To clean them right it’s a 3 hr job. I just finished so you see it really takes that long as I started right after chow. Tomorrow we take it easy - eleven hrs of classroom work - 3 of them after chow in the evening. In other words we work to 10 P.M. So maybe between today and tomorrow I will find time to finish this letter. Haven’t had a chance to see about your return ticket yet. Probably won’t be able to until Saturday. Hope that isn’t too late. You talk about just calling up. You don’t realize, my dear, that in order to get near a phone you have to wait for 1 to 3 hrs and then another 1 to 3 hrs wait to get your call through. Just like that and it’s done. Got [a] letter today written Sat. nite[.] I’m still waiting for that 1st letter mailed from Chicago after you have returned. page 3 It’s now nearly 11 P.M .and I’m very tired so think I will finish this sometime tomorrow if I can find a few minutes. Good nite to both of you and only about two more days now. GWS. 5:30 PM Wed. Just received your first letter from Chicago since you returned. Certainly glad to receive it. We fall out for our first class at 5:50 so only have a few minutes to try and finish this. When we get in we are restricted to CO area because some of the CO. had dirty rifles and we have to clean them all over again. Then they are inspected and have to be passed before we can go to bed. They may mean any time before 5:30 A.M. Must close now and hope there are no ill effects yet <? from> your trip to Rockford. Daddy ...

11 Apr April 11, 1944

Posted at 14:08h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 11, 1944 12:00 Midnight Dear Wes, I hope you will forgive me if this letter is short and sweet, because I am completely "bushed" right now. I am washing the dining room walls, windows and woodwork. I have been working on it since 8:00 o’clock, and have still one and a half walls left to wash. Of course the window frames etc. are what take so much time. I also am washing curtains again. They’re so dirty and I washed them all in February. Don’t know if I’ll tackle the ceilings or not but they do page 2 look dirty. I’m using Soilex and it sure takes the dirt off. Wish I’d used it when I washed the kitchen walls and ceiling. Besides this I’ve been cleaning house all day, as I wasn’t here to do it last Saturday. I just took a bath and am all set for bed after I finish this letter. Wish I could get the window shades cleaned somewhere. Ronnie sure was full of pep today. Guess the trip didn’t get him down. By the way, are the ceilings painted in the living room and dining room, or are they calcimine? Let me know, as page 3 calcimine doesn’t wash, and someone suggested that they might be calcimine instead of painted. If I keep on with this house-cleaning business I’m afraid I will be awfully tired when I get to Florida. I bought some shades for our bedroom vanity lamps yesterday. They’re rose-color. [They] Look pretty nice. Murray told Elinor and the fellows that he’s going to work on the farm. Wonder if he’s kidding? Guess he figured he’ll page 4 be ineligible for the draft then, Or maybe he figures the outdoors will do his lungs good. He may also be afraid of being drafted to war work, as they’re talking of a labor draft for F-4s and then he’d have to stay at Pullman. If you can’t use those house slippers I sent you, send them back, or sell them to someone. I paid $1.85 for them and can get a refund if necessary. How was the Angel-food [cake]? Good I hope! Well good night and Sweet dreams and tell the boys I’m glad they liked the cake. Love, Mom and Ronnie P.S. Ronnie had a new Easter outfit - I didn’t. All I had was new shoes. Poor me. P.P.S. You forgot to put Norma’s and Anna Perkin’s letter in, altho you said you were enclosing them. Who has a poor memory now? ...

12 Apr April 12, 1944

Posted at 19:21h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 12, 1944 Wed. 12:30 A.M. Darling, Just a note to tell you I’ve been working since 8:00 A.M. and it’s now past midnight, and that I’m too tired to write you a letter. I finished the dining room walls and woodwork today, washed and waxed the floors and washed and starched the curtains and waxed all the dining room furniture. I also took all the window shades off the rollers and turned them, and tacked them back on, page 2 washed and bleached the fringe and tassels and will sew them on and get them up tomorrow I hope, also [I] iron[ed] the curtains. I think I’ll wait to wash the living room until I get back from Florida, if I get back. Mrs. Page and husband came in about 11:30 and as I was still washing[,] she brought down a cup of coffee and some cake for me. Nice, huh? Reminds me of when my Mommy used to do that when I’d be sewing or something at home. Sure seems a long time ago. Edith told me I should wait with my cleaning until just page 3 before you came home, as now it will be dirty again by then. Oh well, nothing like doing it all over before then - maybe. I’m glad your pals liked the cakes and candy I sent. Tell them I’ll consider the proposals when I get down there, as I might consider making a change, as long as my roommate is going to keep you busy when you get here. (Is it a deal?) No? Just a fair exchange! No? yes? Well, honey,looks like page 4 Ronnie will be able to do plenty of talking when he gets there. He can really pronounce big words like meteorologist, chiropractor, professor. Elinor was saying one after the other and he could repeat them right away. Maybe we should make a "quiz kid" out of him. He can say his whole prayer without prompting too, now. I’m not joking! Edith said that my train stops in Evansville for a few minutes and her sister Gladys is going to be at the depot to see if she can see me. She also said Betty has a bad cough, and they suspect page 5 it’s either asthma or TB. She’s being x-rayed to see if it’s T.B. If it’s asthma they’ll have to get rid of their four dogs as dog hair irritates it. Can’t see how she puts up with four dogs with a baby around anyway, do you? That Kenneth sure got himself in a mess, didn’t he? I’m glad I’m not the girl, knowing definitely that the man probably hates me because he had to marry me. I couldn’t take it. Of course as long as he’s going in the Army, she might as page 6 well get the allotment as not. I’d sure divorce him after the war tho, if I were she. Of course maybe she loves him and figured that would be one way to get him. -- A poor way I’d say! Altho a lot of girls have "got their man" that way. That’s one thing I give my mom credit for and that is pounding it in my head that "it doesn’t pay to fool around." I had an Aunt that got in Dutch and she didn’t marry the man. She married some other fellow and had 11 more children tho. But guess her husband took advantage of her "first mistake" by going out page 7 with other women and made her work to help support the brood. Guess I’ll send my suitcase on ahead on another train as the streamliner doesn’t have a baggage car. It won’t be long now, just another week and two days. Time sure flies. I have to start thinking of what to bring with me etc. Don’t know how I can bring an alarm clock as Elinor’s clock page 8 went on the blink and she can’t get to work without one. Maybe I can arrange with someone to lend us one, but I don’t know who, as they’re scarce now. They wouldn’t fix Elinor’s clock, as it wasn’t worth it they said and they haven’t the parts anyway etc. Well, nighty night and sleep tight. With loads of love, Mom and Ronnie ...

13 Apr April 13, 1944

Posted at 22:55h in Letters

letter from: PFC George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-13-44 8:20 p.m. Thurs. Noteworthy: Mom prepares to visit Dad at boot camp in Florida. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Just a few lines before getting started on my nitely routine of work before going to bed. Tonite I have to shave, bath[e], wash my cartridge belt, shine my shoes, and a number of other things I’ll think of before it’s over. I walked down to the R.R. ticket office here in camp tonight just to find the damn thing closed. I won’t be able to try again before Saturday. I hope that isn’t too late. I was pretty disgusted as I have two pretty nice blisters and it’s well over a mile down there. That makes two miles for nothing. And I still have to do it. Just to remind you, please don’t forget my bathrobe, camera, alarm clock and plug, yours and Ronnie’s bathing suit and anything else I have told you but can’t think of now. And for gosh sakes, why don’t you use a little common sense and cut out all the <? busy> house cleaning until you get back. I’m sure the walls and curtains can’t be so dirty that they can’t wait another week or two after all I haven’t seen you for some time now and I would think you would rather be nice and fresh rather than all worn out. You know the trip down here isn’t going to be any too easy and if you are all in before you leave I’m sure you will be just <? dandy> by the time you reach Florida especially if it should happen to be hot which page 2 is <? barely> possible even though this is the damnedest most changeable climate in the world. As for the <? cutings>, they are all painted but if you dare touch them before you come down here I’ll turn you over my knee and I can really do that too. But I guess you remember I could even do that before the army toughened me up a little. I guess Murray hasn’t changed any. Someday he may learn that it doesn’t always pay to think only of Murray. There are some things a little bit bigger than he. This war and doing one’s part is one of them. Even though I admit it isn’t exactly heaven and I sure as hell wish it were all over and I was back home again. But when I see the fellows in this hut, for instance, 9 out of 16 over 30 and have families - most of them - and thus think of those that are still home doing nothing more or less, it doesn’t set so well. Oh well, why tell you I guess you agree with me anyway - or do you? Last night one of the fellows in hut next to ours got a phone call that his child was dying. They were very nice about it here and gave him a leave right away but such things come pretty close to home when that happens. I certainly hope that never happens to me. That poor fellow was bawling when he left here. page 3 I expect guard duty next Wed. nite so if I get any kind of break at all we’ll be able to get in St. Augustine sometime around 4 or 5 p.m. Sat. the 22nd. Of course nothing is 100 per cent certain and won’t be until next Sat. noon and I get my pass so if something should happen and I don’t show up just stick around the hotel and I will call you some way. I know that is very indefinite and not very encouraging but that’s the army for you and as far as I know now is the best I can tell you. Just keep your fingers crossed - plenty - that’s all. You remember it’s the Buckingham Hotel and it’s near the center of town so you won’t have any trouble finding it. Well my dear, it’s now 9pm and I have lots of work to do so sweet dreams and I’ll see you soon now. If this letter sounds a little morbid tonite just forget it because it’s just one of those nites when regardless of how well everything has gone one still feels down in the dumps. The only thing I have against you is you’re working so hard when I don’t think it is necessary and just before coming down here. Anyhow it sounds like Ronnie is still full of pep page 4 and I’m certainly glad to hear that he is still very well and apparently doing so well. You don’t realize how much of a relief that is to me to know that he is in good hands and doing so well. And even though I don’t tell you very often I want you to know that I appreciate it very much. I received a nice letter and Easter card from Mr. Chamberlin in Glen Ellyn today. He still seems very nice and I think we got a good deal there if we ever get a chance to take advantage of it. Hello Ronnie old boy and do you know you are going to get to see your soldier Daddy soon now? Daddy ...

13 Apr April 13, 1944

Posted at 19:15h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 13, 1944 Thurs. 7:10 P.M. Darling, I’m writing this so Elinor can mail it on her way to work. Murray stopped in this morning and has been looking for an apartment in Roseland for the last two days. Says he’s only had a couple hours sleep each day. Must be going to stay at Pullman. He has to be out of his house May 1st. He asked for the latest news of you and also if he could take me to the depot when I leave, but I told him Elinor was going to. Edith also asked me if I wanted her to drive me down. page 2 Nice of Murray to offer, I thought. I finished putting the fringe and tassels on the window shades in the dining room, also ironed the curtains. Sure looks nice! I’m starting on the living room shades tomorrow, but will wash the walls when I get back from Florida. I also turned the bedroom shades today. Sure makes a difference as the shades are white instead of dirty tan. It’s been about 65 degrees today and nice and sun shining. Ronnie has been out in the backyard practically all day, except for his nap. Gladys called and I’m going out there Saturday and stay[ing] until Sunday. I’m going on the South Shore and she’ll meet me in page 3 Gary. Ronnie is coming with me, of course, so don’t try to call me over the weekend as I won’t be here. About return reservations. I do have the round-trip ticket, but they wouldn’t make reservations for my coming back. Don’t buy a ticket, just ask if you can make reservations for my trip back. I have to wash my dishes now, as Ronnie has finished his supper at last. Well, be a nice boy now page 4 and don’t do anything I wouldn’t. At least not till I get there. Well, guess I have to get to work and then give Ronnie his bath and put him to bed. Have to mail this too, so bye, and lots of love, Ronnie and Mommy. ...

15 Apr April 15, 1944

Posted at 16:41h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-15-44, 8:30 p.m. Saturday Noteworthy: talk about life in boot camp, talk about Mom visiting boot camp leaving Chicago Friday Arpril 21 Dear Alice and Ronnie, Saturday night and all very quiet down here. Certainly hope it isn’t this quiet this time next week. Guess it won’t be, will it? Only one week to go now, and with a decent break, I’ll be able to see my two darlings once again. And two months can be a hell of a long time sometimes and this last two months has seemed like two years. Just came back from a fair show - "Ladies Courageous" with Loretta Young. Lately these shows here have been lousy, guess it’s mostly because a lot of the good actors are in the service. Most of the fellows get out of camp this week-end. Only four or five of us left. It’s kind of good to be able to loaf around for a half day without a dozen and a half men stumbling all over you all the time. However, we do have a pretty nice bunch of men here even though it gets a little touchy at times after a hard day and we come in for some extra detail because one or more of the fellows fell down on their job. You see, in the army, we work by squads, - each hut is a squad. And if your squad falls down, even though it might be one man’s page 2 fault, very often, the entire squad gets hell for it. Then there are 4 squads to a platoon and very often if one squad is bad enough the entire platoon gets hell. There are 3 platoons to a company (180 men) and if one or more platoon happens to be bad enough, then the entire company gets it. That happens quite often. Once this week it happened one weekend when we first came here. They have threatened us often. We always have our fingers crossed. Me especially, for the next two weeks. We haven’t had such a tough week this week with the exception of two hours of going through bayonet course and then two hours of obstacle course which stopped plenty of the boys. It was a breeze for me at the time but I have just paid plenty since. I’ve been plenty stiff and sore since going through that thing. I’ll tell you about the three toughest ones. One - we had to take an eight foot perpendicular board wall on the run. That stopped a good 30 per cent of the company. Then we had to jump a 30 ft ditch by means of a rope extended down from about 50 ft above the ditch from <?across> bars. There were page 3 plenty who dropped in - the ditch was dry this time. Then we had to practice boarding ship by means of rope ladder, you’ve seen this in movies I’m sure. It’s about 40 ft high. When we got to the top we came down by means of a fireman’s pole in nothing flat. The toughest one of all for me and I think for all of us was grabbing a six foot rope hanging about eight feet <? qt> ground and pulling ourselves up on a platform about 15 feet high, then we had to jump off it. The jumping was easy if you didn’t break an ankle but there were plenty who couldn’t pull themselves up to that platform. Then of course there were many more but these were the bottlenecks. Oh yes, I have almost forgotten - this week we started marching by double timing 1 minute and quick timing (walking) one half minute. We cover about 4 miles in about 45 minutes that way. For the first time I have developed blisters on my feet. However, the double timing (running) is easier for me than straight speed marching. That speed marching is really a grind. We have had 6 hrs more of code work this week. I am now in lesson two. In other words I am learning my second group of letters in the phonics alphabet page 4 in code. There are seven letters to a group. Five groups in all including numerals from 1 to 9. Due to detail work Friday night I missed two hours of code class. But I am still up or ahead of most of the boys in my hut. There are two on lesson three and three or four still on lesson one. The rest of us are on lesson two. You see, as soon as we pass one lesson we can go on to the next one. I’m afraid I may have a little trouble getting that stuff as it seems to be coming kind of slow at times. One night this week we had three hours of code straight, by the time it was over, all I was hearing was all dots or all dashes. I couldn’t make out which. Next week, we have 18 hrs of code. One nite class, four hours long - don’t know what it will be yet and then a bunch of other stuff. We are scheduled for 48 hrs. That always means at least 60 and very often 70 or more. Suppose you are tired of all this by this time but thought you might like to know that we have no time to ourselves during the week. We finished at 1:30 a.m. today and by ducking out of the back door <?once> have so far avoided any work since. I’m getting very good at sensing details in time to skip out just in time. There were four of <?in> made it by a hair this evening. page 5 Got a letter from Edith yesterday. she didn’t have much new to tell but did say everything seemed to be going along alright at 11007 Union Ave and Ronnie really showed off to some visitors the other day. Certainly would like to see him perform a little myself. And while I think of it, by all means, don’t forget the alarm clock. Also my bathrobe and some handkerchiefs along with all the other things I have mentioned previously. Oh yes, I’m down to $4.00, so act accordingly. Since you may have to stay a few days more than you anticipated, it might be well to come prepared. You see, I tried to get your return reservations on the Flagler today. That’s impossible. They are booked up until May 15th. if you are lucky, you might get a cancelation after you get here. If not, you will have to take another slow train back. On your way down, when the train stops in Jacksonville, if you can, they advise you trying to get a reservation back then. If you have no luck there, then try again as soon as you get in St. Augustine. If you have no luck there you will have to take another train back when you can get a seat. page 6 Well my dear, it’s well after 10 p.m. and I am beginning to feel like hitting the hay. I seem to have considerable trouble sleeping lately. I wake up <? sweating> and then can’t get back to sleep. Certainly would give a lot if I could get rid of this itch or at least find out what is causing it. Don’t suppose you will get many more letters from me before you leave Friday. You never have told me how long it takes for my letters to get to Chicago. I get yours the next day if they are postmarked in the a.m. from Chicago and they don’t mess things up down here in camp. That happens every once in a while. However, can’t think of anything more I want you to bring with you that I haven’t already told you about. The hotel is the Buckingham and you are to go to St. Augustine of course. Don’t worry if I am a little late getting there. Just stay at the hotel until I get there or you hear from me. Will see you both soon now, Daddy. ...

15 Apr April 15, 1944

Posted at 14:01h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 15, 1944 Sat. 3:00 P.M. Hello, honey, Here I am sitting in the Gary South Shore Station patiently waiting since 2:20 for Gladys and Dick to show up. [I] cheated Ronnie out of a nap and everything to get here on time and they were going to meet me at 2:30. I’m getting sort of disgusted. I’m having an awful time with Ronnie, as he’s tired and is getting crabby and wants to run all over the station. -- I’m getting mad! Well, it won’t be long now page 2 before you’ll be seeing us. Only seven more days. -- Oh sure! We can hardly wait! How about you? I’m beginning to wonder whether they’re waiting at the South Shore bus terminal. I took it for granted they meant the train. I didn’t know there was a South Shore bus terminal until I got here. I’ll sit here just another half hour and then try to call them or something. I should have known better than to think the Hackers would get my place on time I guess! I’ve waited 50 minutes already. page 3 It’s such a miserable day. Been raining all day and all last nite. Fact is, it seems it rains all the time lately. Sure hope it’s nice when I get to Florida. If it rains the day I get there, I’ll turn around and come back to Chicago. Dick is here now and it’s 3:20. Boy, did I tell him. Well, bye, Darling. See you soon, Love, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. Dick says hello! (see other side - please.) page 4 Hi Wes. I’ve just been entertaining Ronnie with a pinball machine. He’s going to be a baseball player when he grows up. Alice has been waiting for me since 2:30. It’s now 3:15 P.M. I’m always on time. Excuse the writing as I’m trying to write on my knee. How’s the Army? I’ll know myself pretty soon. I’m supposed to go in the last week in April. Everyone here is just fine. Hoping you are the same. Dick .. . .. . ...

16 Apr April 16, 1944

Posted at 19:10h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 16, 1944 Sunday, 9:10 P.M. Hello, Wes, Here I am back again in my own living room writing you again. Ronnie is in bed and none the worse for his Crown Point trip - I hope! He had lots of sleep and plenty to eat and lots of fun playing with Joyce and "Dickie" (as Ronnie called Dick). He’s getting pretty familiar with his uncle, don’t you think? Gladys baked half a ham for dinner today, so we page 2 had lots to eat. She also made butterscotch pie. It snowed all morning today. Can you imagine? Sure can’t depend on the weatherman anymore. Dick had been out fishing until 4:00 A.M. Sat. morning and he and another fellow caught 90 fish between them. Poor Dick has been cleaning them for the last couple days. They were crappies, bluegills and perch. I guess I should have asked them for some, but didn’t especially want to carry them on the train anyway. Talked to a fellow on the page 3 South Shore Train who had spent 15 months in Texas in the Army and got a medical discharge because of his eyes and bad feet, I guess. He said he owned two furniture stores, one in Gary and one in Chicago. At that time (two years ago) they gave him 10 days to dispose of his business. He was single and was looking for a nice girl to marry. I guess I should have brought him home for Elinor. Now he said he didn’t dare go in business again as he’s still on page 4 the Army Reserve list. Said he took a terrific loss on his stores. That must be tough, too. The reason Dick was so late in meeting me was because he left work about noon and so thought he might as well go to the show until 2:30, but fell asleep and didn’t wake up until 3:10, P.M. He and I ought to get together as we both sleep in shows. I thought maybe Dick wouldn’t have to go, as they’re allowing deferments for men over 26 now, even tho already inducted. But he said he’ll still have to page 5 go, possibly in ten days. His brother (Les or Wes?) is also physically fit and expects to go next month. Gladys is moving in with Ellen and Dick’s dad as soon as Dick leaves. Maybe it’ll be a good thing for Joyce. Probably will get over her whining, as she won’t be the only child there. She seems to be a little fatter now and looks better. She sure is a stubborn kid, tho. I think they told her a dozen times to wash her face and hands and she wouldn’t do it while I was page 6 there. Is there anything you want me to bring, in particular. That is besides camera, films, bathrobe, etc. Gladys said she hadn’t heard from Claude for ages, or from Forrest since he finished "boot training." Have you heard from Forrest lately? I sent your dad that knife the other day. Hope he gets it okay. Well, honey, guess I’ll turn in as I need to get some rest this week, or I’ll be dead when I get there. So behave and wait for me. Lovingly, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. Do you have any idea what time you will get to the hotel? If I’m not there when you get there I’ll leave a message at the desk as to where we are. Bye ...

17 Apr April 17, 1944

Posted at 16:45h in Letters

letterfrom: Pvt George W. Shonkwilerto: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler4-17-448 p.m. Monday Dear Alice and Ronnie, No letter yesterday and just a very short one today. The <? tough> one written while you were waiting for Dick in the South Shore Station last Saturday. I was glad he finally showed up and hope you had a nice week-end. What day does he have to leave for the Army? Today has been one of the easiest we have had since entering the Army. We had 8 hrs of classroom work and 20 minutes of speed marching. The classroom work consisted of 4 hrs of code, 2 hrs of cryptograms, and 2 hrs of message center organization. The only problem in days like this is keeping awake. If you don’t, you’ll get zigged and that means extra detail. There were about 30 called out tonite. I got lots of sleep over the week-end so I didn’t have much trouble today. But it wasn’t always that way. Yesterday was also a very quiet day. I got up about 10 a.m., loafed around rest of [the] morning, went to [the] show after dinner and then finished the day by catching up on some of my other correspondence. It really felt pretty good to be good and rested once again. According to schedule, this week shouldn’t be so tough, so page 2 maybe I’ll be in good shape for you by Saturday. We have not only had an easy day today but we have also had excellent weather for a change. It’s about 75 degrees all day and [e]very day. Besides, I passed lesson two in code and am now struggling with lesson three. There are only two fellows in the hut ahead of me now. They both went into lesson 4 this p.m. Maybe I’ll get there tomorrow. When we pass lesson 5 we have learned all the alphabet and numbers from 1 to 10. Then we start on actual words and it should be easier. I’m enclosing a letter I received from Norma today. By the way, did you ever send Dick that knife I told you about a couple of weeks ago? Well my dear, guess this will be about the last letter I’ll write as you will probably leave before any more will reach you. Hope you bring everything I have told you about including the alarm clock, plug, and camera, films. Will see you Saturday afternoon at the Buckingham Hotel - early I hope. Lots of love to both of you. Daddy ...

17 Apr April 17, 1944

Posted at 18:49h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 17, 1944 Mon. 12:10 A.M., Midnite Darling, Won’t write much tonite, as I want to get to bed and get some of that rest you mentioned. I’m leaving the living room walls, woodwork and floors go till I get back. As it is, I have plenty to do washing and ironing clothes for Ronnie and I to take with us. I’ve already packed some of our things today, so I won’t have it all to do the last minute. I got two letters from you today one written last Thursday and the other written Saturday, so you can judge from that how long it takes to get here. Ronnie was out of doors for a couple hours this morning as it was quite warm, about 50 degrees. Of course that may not seem very page 2 warm to you, but it is to us! I saw the people who bought Murray’s house tonite, as they left the house and got in their car. He’s manager of a cemetery and is a little skinny man with a derby and a celluloid collar and wears a black bow tie. She’s chubby and has <? hennaed> hair. I guess they’re about 55 or 60. Why couldn’t it have been a young couple so I could visit with them once in a while? They also want absolute quiet in the neighborhood. You’d think after spending all day at the cemetery he’d welcome a little noise. They sound like a sort of a "stuffy" pair, don’t they? Well, honey, here I go to bed now to sleep and sleep and sleep and get all rested up for my big weekend. See you soon, and will wait at the hotel for you to come. Maybe I’ll be asleep when you get there. Bye, and All our love, Ronnie and Mom ...

08 May May 8, 1944

Posted at 22:54h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-8-44, Monday, 7:30 p.m. Noteworthy: more discussion about Junior, cardinal sin in the Army Dear Mommy and Ronnie, Rather an easy day today and since I have most of my work done for the <? eomssy> will try to have a letter waiting for you - almost - when you reach home. Too bad you aren’t here tonight because we got off early and no extra details. I would have met you by 5:30 or earlier. Seems like that’s the way it always is. I suppose from now on I won’t have anything today any evening after 5 p.m. I got a bus at 8:30 last night and was back in camp at 10 p.m. Some of the boys had received packages from home and were having a snack, which I just got in on. Was pretty nice. Even had some cherry brandy that really put me to sleep when I finally crawled in at 11 p.m. Today I have felt pretty good, so you see no ill effects from your visit. I hope you can say the same for both of you. Well, it doesn’t hardly seem possible that you and Ronnie have come and gone, and now I won’t get to see you for the Lord knows when again. You know there were lots of things I wanted to say to you that I never seemed to get around to saying because I was either too tired or too something. Anyhow page 2. maybe if I tell you now that I love you very much and I think you are doing a swell job with Ronnie and everything else, it will do almost as well. We did get along pretty well too, even though we were all three usually tired out. And I was continuously under a nervous tension worrying about my chance of getting out of camp to see you after you coming all the way down here. It’s no fun - yesterday one of the fellows’ father came down and he couldn’t get a pass from our first sergeant, so he took it upon himself to go see the company commander without the sergeant’s permission. Now that is a cardinal sin in the army and he not only didn’t get his pass, but he caught plenty of hell besides bringing threatened with court martial. It was the Jewish fellow in our hut. The one you met who I said was the <? but> one of our three Jews. He certainly has been a sick fellow today. Anyhow it just impresses on me something that we are in the army and can’t always do what we would like to do. Well, how’s Junior coming along? Suppose you know no more than you did, but I am still hoping. You know, my dear, if you find this time that it’s no go - why don’t you go have a check. page 3 You know the next time I get to see you may be the last for a long time and by the time I come back, if I am shipped across, neither one of us will be any younger and soon may be too late. You know, the two most important things I hope for now is first, that this was be <? pud> and I get home and that we have a little baby brother or sister for Ronnie. Whatever is wrong may be so small that it can easily be taken care of before the end of June. Perhaps it’s just rest we both need. Perhaps it isn’t you at all. If it’s me it looks like there isn’t going to be much I can do about it for some time. But if there is something you can do now to help things along I really believe we should do it. As for being afraid that I might not love you anymore should you find you could not have a baby I don’t think you need worry. After all we do have Ronnie and if it’s meant that Ronnie is to be all then he will be all and it will just mean he will get twice as much love and be twice as spoiled. The doctor we had for Margaret, I am sure you would like and I know if there is anything to be done he could do it. He is a specialist in that line. He’s a man of about 60 years old, has a wife and two boys page 4 of his own and a kinder man you have never met. I don’t know just what your feelings are towards having him after he was Margaret’s doctor but I know this I am sure when he meets you and sees all that you have done for me and Ronnie he will agree that I have done the right thing and will encourage us both in our desire for another baby. Now please don’t get me wrong, I am not saying you should go see him or am I even saying go to a doctor. I am merely stating my mind and if you should decide to see a doctor I am merely giving you my first choice. You see he probably knows about you through doctor de Young anyway because doctor de Young is his prodigy and they both have offices together. And I know he would like to see Ronnie again and if you do go be sure and take Ronnie with you. Oh yes, his name is Dr. maple and he has offices in the Woodlawn Clinic at 61st and Drexel. That’s just one block east of Cottage Grove on 61st St. He also is the head doctor and part owner of the Woodlawn Hospital which is next door. Even Dr. de Young could be able to tell you if there was anything we could do. Well enough for that - I’ll just keep my fingers crossed and hope for the best. Let me know all page 5 the latest dope about Murray, Schowalter, Dick and anyone else around there. And tell everyone that I owe letters to that since you have left I may get around to answering their letter soon now, that is, if the army doesn’t suddenly start taking all my remaining free time. Hope you found everything under control and Eleanor and Judy as fat as pigs. Don’t forget to tell Eleanor to plan on taking a vacation to Florida the latter part of June. I think she will be needing one about then. I’d better close now and save of this for the next time. I might even get around to sending out a few cards although it is a 8:30 and I have two pairs of shoes and some shaving to do yet. Bye now and and once again I love you Mommy. I love Ronnie too but as you know it is two different kinds of love and one doesn’t conflict with the other. So take good care of him for me and of yourself too and maybe someday I will be able to come home and do it myself. page 6 Tell Ronnie to God bless Daddy and I hope he remembers me the next time he sees me. Daddy ...

09 May May 9, 1944

Posted at 15:30h in Letters

card from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler An Orchid to my Wife on Mother’s Day. Just to say I’m not forgetting All the things you’ve done for me Just to say that thoughts of you are Just as dear as they can be! Just to tell you as a Wife You are all that’s good and fine, And I always will be thankful And mighty glad you are mine! Daddy and Ronnie Guess you will have to buy your own flowers this year. ...

12 May May 12, 1944

Posted at 14:56h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Friday, 9 p.m. 12-5-44 Noteworthy: Dad discusses basic training. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Just a few minutes before retiring after three hard days in a row. Wed. we worked until 10 p.m., Thursday, 11 p.m., and tonight we have just finished. Tomorrow, Sat., we get up at 4 a.m. for a five-mile speed march and 50 caliber machine gun range all morning. Anybody who says our training cycle gets easier as we go along is crazy. Thur we went through the obstacle course with packs and rifles. That was the hardest thing I have done since entering the Army and the only time I have come close to not making it. There were plenty who didn’t. Besides having plenty of trouble I strained a muscle in my knee broke my watch and have been so stiff ever since that I can hardly navigate. I am sending the watch home to be fixed since I am absolutely lost without it. I wish you would do everything you can to have it fixed and return as quickly as possible. Especially by June 5th. Better take it to page 2 Van Sipona and tell him the circumstances, maybe he will make an exception and fix it in a hurry. I have contacted [contracted] a cold along with practically all the rest of the hut this week. One of the boys went to the hospital today with a 102 degree fever. The weather has been lousy and then our tough training combined is doing it I guess. Yesterday and today it rained at least a dozen different times and we were out in all of it. Good old Florida sunshine. Tomorrow we eat the first of our C rations. Tomorrow I don’t eat. They say we have to eat a minimum of <? le cous> before the end of the cycle -- I don’t know??? We hear everyone over 30 are exempted from the draft. Certainly must be nice to be a civilian and know that the Army is no worry to you. Especially if you are making from $100 to $200 per week. Oh well -- some day maybe I will laugh at all this. I am taking 12 words per minute in code <? runs> and I think that is tops for me. Enough for tonight. Good night to both of you and I am waiting patiently for that package. Daddy. 5-13-44. Sunday 9pm. Dear Alice and Ronnie: I have been trying to start a letter ever since 5pm. but ever since 5pm there has been from three to a dozen men who didn’t go out on pass this week sitting around talking and discussing everything from soup to nuts and mainly how to get out of the Army. For me they almost have me convinced I should go on sick call on account of my skin trouble. Anyway the heavy talkers are thinning out a little now and maybe I can concentrate enough to write a little. We fired 50 caliber anti-aircraft guns this morning and then speed marched six miles. I came very near not makihg that one. We have been on C rations all day. This morning I didn’t eat anything. Today now I downed one can and tonight practically the entire hut went over to page 3 the service club. We got a pretty fair meal there. Monday we have C rations again all day. This time, we eat it or go hungry as we will not be allowed to go out of Co. area. Guess I will go hungry for sure. One of the best ways to stop Judy from shedding so much is to give her a trimming and then a couple good baths. If you don’t do it that way, she will be shedding all <? suin> over. There is a screen for the North and South windows upstairs. All you have to get [are] screens for the two West windows and the bathroom window. That’s three in all. The screens are all numbered or marked. Be sure you get them right or they will not fit. If you have them right, they will fit easily. Otherwise, they won’t. So, Ronnie has a[n] army truck and bus to take to bed with him now. Guess he is going to be a real boy after all. I suppose he hasn’t missed page 4 Daddy any since he got home again. Suppose it’s really better that way because if he does, if he remembered without understanding why that wouldn’t be good either. Well, we have three more weeks of training and then two weeks bivouac and then one week of cleaning. It really isn’t going to be long now when you break it down that way. There are plenty of rumors floating around about what is going to happen to us. The latest is we pre-Pearl Harbor fathers over 38 and under 19 will be kept here. Heaven forbid that if I had to look forward to from four to 16 weeks more done here without getting out I think I really would go nuts. Each week seems to get harder to stand. Especially now since we hear that all men over 30 are deferred. You probably didn’t realize the reaction that has caused in this camp. It seems like no one seems to give a damn anymore. Me I think the same way. page 5 Especially since it’s all for purely political reasons. Of course, you being a Democrat wouldn’t understand that or be able to see it but nevertheless, it is true. And will most certainly bring a few more much needed souls into the Democratic camp next fall. Well, I guess it’s time to ring off. Ronnie, old boy, I hope when you grow up to be a man that we will have managed to elect someone else president and have the country some way near back to a normal basis again. Anyhow, I am glad you love me as much as you do Mommy and I certainly hope, as you do, that we all will be able to live decent normal lives soon again. Right now it doesn’t look too encouraging for an early realization of our hopes. Love to you both, Daddy ...

15 May May 15, 1944

Posted at 21:15h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-15-44, Monday, 8:30 p.m. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, A little extra time tonight. When we started out this morning, we thought we were in for a tough day. We were on C-Rations all day and were to fire the 50-caliber anti-aircraft gun. We did, but it wasn’t at all bad. We marched about four miles and then rode the other six. Took all day to fire 20 shots apiece and then rode all the way back. This morning and today noon, we did eat C-Rations, but tonight we renigged [reneged]. A couple of the boys got some very appropriate packages and with what we were able to get at the PX, we really had a feast, cokes, cheese, crackers, ice cream, beer, 1 pint of whiskey, candy, sardines, jelly, and so on. Oh, my stomach. And by the way I am still waiting for those packages. Pretty soon the guys are going to stop feeding me if some one from home doesn’t come through. How about some of my so-called friends up there? Page two. It has been hotter than hell here today. Don’t know just how warm, but I am willing to bet it was well up in the 90s. Just a sample of what is to come, they tell us. I had a very quiet week-end. Got to the theater Sat. nite too late to get in and Sunday morning caught up on some of my correspondence. Sunday afternoon we tried going to show again but after taking our money, they called it off because of some paratroopers making some exhibition jumps. We didn’t get our money back. But did see the paratroopers. It was pretty interesting. Sunday night finally got to see a show but it was just fair. Went to bed early, and that’s that. Tomorrow we have an easy day, 4 hrs of code and 4 hrs of advanced map reading. Wednesday, we have a five hour nite class so means out to midnight. Saturday the obstacle course again. Maybe someday, this damn training period will taper off a little. Anyhow there are only 5 weeks more. Thank God for small things. Sounds like Ronnie is doing alright playing with his neighbors and taking their toys. He certainly likes balls. Maybe someday he will be a big league ball player. Who knows? Page three. As for the new neighbors, I certainly wouldn’t break my neck trying to please them. Live as you have been. If they don’t like it they can always move. After all, we were there long before they came and I know if I were there I certainly would[n’t] change any of my living habits just for them. As for Judy barking, if she wants to bark let her bark Why is Betty coming to Chicago to live? Is Bill being transferred there or something? Whatever happened to Campbell’s. I haven’t heard from them for some time? Did you ever thank her for the Easter present? If not you get on the phone at once -- or stop in there. Have you heard from Gladys and Dick yet and how about Ray Hitchcock? Sounds like you are really going into house cleaning in [earnest]. Well that’s one thing the Army has done for me at least. Got me out of Spring house cleaning. Of course I get it here every Friday nite. And of course six other days of the week. So guess I am not getting such a break at that. page four. How is Eleanor and the Pages? Have you talked Eleanor into driving down here yet -- or am I going to have to write her a personal letter myself? By the way, along with your various other jobs don’t forget to have the car taken care of such as have oil and grease changed, motor tuned up, and Presstone taken out. And don’t through [throw] the Prestone away. You can use it next year, you know. Put it in those glass gallon jugs you will find in the garage. And then just before you come down here have it <? summerized> and the fenders straightened out. They will do all that at the garage at 115th and Halsted. See Ed Lewis. If he is not there ask for Don Regan and be sure and tell them who you are. Well, I have to shave, shine my shoes, and otherwise prepare myself for bed so good night to you both and give Ronnie a big kiss for Daddy. And then Ronnie can give Mommy one for Daddy too. Bye now, Daddy. ...

16 May May 16, 1944

Posted at 21:18h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-16-44, Tuesday, 8 p.m. Dearest Ronnie and Alice, Received a nice long letter today besides a nice two lb. box of candy which is practically all gone right now. Both were very very nice, I assure you. Today has been a very soft day as far as work was concerned but it has been very tough nevertheless because of the heat. It was at least 100 degrees and the humidity very high. A little shower this afternoon didn’t help any either. Tomorrow, though, is going to be a different story. We already had a big day scheduled and then tonight they told us we were going to start an hour earlier and go over the obstacle course again. They are not satisfied with just making us so sore we can hardly walk, now they want to kill us. Anyway it seems getting up at 4:30 a.m., which is bad enough in itself. They just got a letter from one of the fellows in Co A who finished this <? cycle> about a month ago. He is somewhere in Europe. Says we can forget all we have learned in Message Center and concentrate on being a page 2. soldier. He didn’t explain -- it was V-mail, but sounded like he must have been put in a rifle co. after arriving there. He said Camp Blanding was heaven compared to where he is now. Certainly is <? encouraging> because if it is worse than this place it must really be bad. It sounds like you are really going to have a garden of sorts. If you are planting corn, be sure and not plant it too close together. At least two feet apart each way. If you have already planted it closer than that, you might as well hoe it out when it comes up because if you don’t your corn will all go to stock. I know because I planted it too close last year. Guess what I am doing now -- yes, eating again. Crackers and Velveeta cheese. We haven’t caught up from C rations yet. I eat stuff down here I never would think of eating in civilian life. But it all tastes good -- just as long as it comes from some place besides the army. So the new neighbors have a grand piano, dress suits and so on, and are to [too] good to mow the lawn? If you ask me I don’t think we are page 3. going to like them any too well -- we got a raise -- somebody just opened a glass of jelly and some <? snack> and some kind of canned ham. Now we are really having a feast. I have already had three cokes. My poor stomack[h]. Did you get the watch yet and when are you going to get it back? I certainly miss it. I never know how much longer I have to force myself to stay awake until the next break comes. Well my dear I am having a hell of a time writing this letter, eating, and trying to listen to a dozen guys and the latest latrine rumors. Rumors come thick and fast these days. A new and different one, every five minutes. Time out -- we just finished putting Sam to bed. Every night for the last two months he has said that tomorrow night he was going to bed at 9 PM. Then when 9 PM comes around, he is snowed under with his work, half done. Last night we told him that tonight, he page 4. was going to bed at 9 PM regardless. He is now in bed -- forcibly. And you should see the men around his bed. A slow southerner is one thing I am glad I am not. Must close now. How’s my little Ronnie been today? And has he treated Mommy good? And vice versa. Night for now, Daddy ...

18 May May 18, 1944

Posted at 21:27h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-18-44, 7 p.m. Thursday Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another very hot day and we are all very glad that we haven’t had too much to do. This morning 2 hrs of code, (I am in 14 words per min) and 2 hrs of advanced map reading. This afternoon we had a 4 hr message center problem out in the field, and it was plenty easy to gold brick. It was taken advantage of 100 per cent by everyone, I was no exception. Tonight I almost went swimming but finally decided it was too much of an effort and I had some other work to do along with writing this letter. Besides I don’t like the idea of having to march to a swimming hole. We are really beginning to know what Florida heat can be. It is so hot that we don’t even eat. But the mess hall is never over 1/2 full and then those who eat through most of what they take away. We still have pork twice a day, and now the fellows are really complaining. I haven’t eaten enough meat this week to feed a 1 yr old baby. As for packages -- so far I have only received candy, and that was gone the first day. When you send package for bivouac -- small cans of juice to [too] would be better. However page two. don’t deprive yourself of points so you won’t have any yourself. As I know I’ll manage some way, regardless. Send what you can and that’s all. I imagine we will have plenty anyway, as everyone is expecting packages. You mentioned Analee visiting you, but that’s all. What’s the latest news about her? Those bulbs in the basket are <? Canna> bulbs and chrysanthemum bulbs and they should be out now fast. Plant the Canna bulbs in that round space around the tree in the backyard. The others plant someplace where they have plenty room to grow as they grow three or four feet high. Did all those "what you call it’s" put in the backyard, in pots, die? I usually put a couple of them on each side of the front platforms to cover up that bare spot. Don’t forget the tulips have to be dug up and let dry out when they are through blooming. Well, I thought I would have a chance to write you a long letter tonight, but there has been a lot of interference since I started this one two hours ago. I took a shower -- got a haircut, went to the PX and in general wasted considerable time. Now it is 9:30 p.m. and I suppose lights out any minute. Although they page three. have been getting pretty lax with us lately. I have never heard from the Holmes since I answered his first letter. Guess he is too good to write -- or something. Also, how about Campbell’s? Haven’t heard anything from or about them for a long time. I guess the novelty of me being in the Army has worn off. Haven’t heard from Gladys yet either. What happened to them -- do you know? Sounds like if I ever get home I will have plenty of corn and fresh vegetables to eat, plus steak -- steak and more steak, I hope. I may go into Jacksonville this week-end as I want to go once before the cycle is over and the next two weeks-ends I understand we work all day Saturday, which means I go this week or not at all. Unless I am stationed here. Should I be stationed here by chance, how would you like to come down here and live? Of page four. course, that’s some time off and the chances are I won’t be but it’s an idea nevertheless. Anyhow, in about 5 weeks I’ll know I guess. So Ronnie is getting to be a regular commando. Well, all I can say is that he will have to get pretty tough if he wants to stay up with his old man. After what I understand, we have to go through the next 5 weeks, I’ll be able to take anything. I must close now --good night to both of you. And don’t work too hard. And keep in mind, you half way promised to see what you could do about getting a playmate of our own for Ronnie. Love, Daddy. ...

21 May May 21, 1944

Posted at 21:20h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5 21 44 9 p.m. Sunday Dear Alice and Ronnie, Here it is[,] week-end not over[,] and I am just starting a letter to you and nothing else done. Yesterday afternoon I did my washing and then took my first time swimming. It was very nice and I had a slight sunburn. Last night at 5:30 p.m. I was supposed to go on K.P. but bought off ($1.50) and went down to the service club for dinner and saw a lousy show afterwards. Today all day K.P.[,] I finished at 5:30 p.m. and then went to [the] show again. This time saw Gary Cooper in "[The Story of ] Dr. Wassel" and that is really good. See it if you can. Oh yes, I took a couple hours off from K.P. this morning to go on sick call finally. It was pretty much as I had expected. They gave me some sulfur liquid to put on it and said to come back if that doesn’t help and they would send me to the hospital for observation or something. page 2. Well I can assure you that that is one thing I am not going to do very soon. This heat is bad enough -- laying in a hospital where you have no chance to escape any of it at all, is certainly not to my liking and I am not asking for it. I guess if I have stood it this long I can do it some more. Didn’t receive any letters from you since Thursday until today -- and then what a letter. You can also lay it on kinda <? strong> when you get going strong. As for money -- my dear -- I realize that you don’t have any too much even if I do forget it sometimes and I know you are doing a swell job with what you have. If some of my suggestions go over your head <? financially> well then I guess you will have to forget some of them. However if you continue to drive the car you will have to have the oil and grease changed for summer driving. Also the Prestone taken out. Those gallon jugs in the garage that has reddish looking liquid in them and smells like gasoline, is gasoline and was my "rainy day gasoline", so you may use it Page 3 as I probably won’t be having any driving rainy days very soon. Now as for the new neighbors -- naturally it pays to be on good terms with your neighbors if you can. If you can’t then the next best thing is to have absolutely nothing to do with them. As I told you before, we were there first, if they don’t like our children’s noise, our habits and manners then they can get to hell out of there -- fast. Now as for the packages. You said you were going to send me a package -- I hadn’t received it yet so I just wanted to know what had happened to it -- you needn’t get so huffy. I did receive the two packages. Thank you -- and also the $10 check. Thank you very much -- I was getting my very low -- now I will be able to get through the month. I thought I had told you I had received it but perhaps in my rush I forgot to do so. Perhaps I am page 4 a little more and more like someone else pretty close to me I know. I don’t know what we do this week but the rumor has it it is going to be a pretty tough week. We have a 9 mile speed march coming up very soon now. This may be the week I made last Saturday’s 5 mile hike with some little effort but I did make it. Five miles in 54 minutes -- and that just isn’t strolling. The pictures were swell. I liked the one of Ronnie sitting down and the two of all of us together especially. Try and get more film if you can as I have taken a few down here and only have a couple shots to go and then I will be out. Will send them if I ever get them developed. Oh yes about house cleaning -- I know it will be nice when you get it all cleaned up and all that but I wonder if it is worth killing yourself. After all, you know, it will just get dirty again. So Ronnie sleeps with his Daddy now. Well that’s pretty nice -- but I know how it could be a lot nicer for both of you. page 5 As for Ronnie’s sister, I am still pulling for one of our own -- and soon. I wish you would get in touch with Gladys as I would kinda like to know what has happened there. I can’t figure out why in hell they haven’t written me. Did you ever call or write them after you were there? How about using some of those "L" coupons for gas I left you. After a while they won’t be any good and then you will be really out of luck. If you are saving them for when I come home that’s fine, but I don’t think it is necessary to save that many. As for transferring your name to the title, I believe I told you send me the necessary blanks and I would sign them. I don’t know what else I am I can’t do about that -- do you? Now I think I have just about answered all your questions, replied to all your complaints had counseled you in all your troubles and griefs -- at least I have sort of tried. Do you feel page 6 any better? Anyhow it’s time for lights out and I still have to shower -- shave and a few other small details before retiring so you will have to be satisfied a little for one night. I hope you were able to get the screens up O.K. and if you were I think you are quite a woman. Of course I think that anyway but this just proves it a little more. But at that you had to have help. So Ronnie old boy you are already having trouble with our new neighbors. Well I don’t suppose it will be the last trouble you’ll ever get into. Just don’t make it too bad. And just remember this is still a free world regardless of the many narrow-minded people who do live in it. And some of them will never appreciate the fact that there has to be children in this world and they probably will never appreciate the fact that many of these children’s Daddies are away not by their own choosing -- making it possible for these same narrow-minded people going on being narrow-minded and very very small. <? Pitty> night now. With lots of love, Daddy ...

22 May May 22, 1944

Posted at 21:23h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-22-44, 7 p.m. Noteworthy: more on boot camp workout Dear Alice and Ronnie, Will take a few minutes while waiting for inspection to dash off a few lines. We had a rather slow day today, so they decided to inspect all of our GI clothing to see if we had it all marked. You see, all of our clothing has to be marked a certain way with our serial number. It sounds easy, but try to write with indelible ink, 5 numbers in about 100 pieces of clothing, and you will see what I mean. It just happened that I had most of mine done, so I am taking it a little easy, at least until the inspector comes around and finds that I haven’t got it done right. According to schedule the rest of the week is going to be plenty tough with lots of marching - We are out on ranges most of the week. In all we put in a 58-hour week actually working page 2. in the field. Besides that, of course we have all our other work. Oh well, only a little over four weeks to go now. It’s not so far off at that. Your little poem was very nice and pretty good. Maybe you missed your calling at that. Just be darn sure that you don’t forget what you said in it. Certainly was too bad about Mrs. Vanderberg. Just be darn sure nothing like that ever happens to you or Ronnie. Things are bad enough as it is without something like that ever happening. That’s what I am afraid of - you doing so much housecleaning - putting up screens - mowing yard and so on. You have to be pretty tough to do all that and get away without any after effects - A word to the wise you know. Co C across the way from us is finishing their cycle this week. May learn a little from them next week what may happen to us in a little over a month. The rumors sure fly thick and fast and everyone is different. page 3. The picture of Ronnie sleeping with his daddy was alright - only Ronnie is better looking and sweeter than that little boy. So you were out prowling around Saturday night - well. Received a letter from A. Evers today. He has just been transferred from Camp Grant to some hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. He is taking special training in x-ray. Says it is a four months course and when he gets through will get some kind of rating. Says it is pretty tough but likes it alright. He wants to see me but it is over 300 miles to Atlanta. So I don’t know how it can be managed as we are only allowed to go 100 miles from camp. If he has the same restrictions we can’t quite make it. Well, my dear, I have things to do. So had better get started. How is Ronnie and the neighbors getting along also, all the other boys in the block? Has your Victory Garden started coming up yet? You had better have something nice for me by the time I get home. Oh yes - if I get to come home - I will need about $50 for a railroad ticket - just a <? bad> little reminder. Suppose that will have to come out of the bank, too. Oh well I might not get home again for some time, so I guess it will be worth it - maybe. Bye now and my dears and don’t work too hard or get into too much trouble. With lots of love to you both, Daddy. P.S., oh yes, if you can buy some citronella or <? seat> send me some for Bivouac. There is something else I want but I can’t think of it. GWS ...

23 May May 23, 1944

Posted at 16:01h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-23-44, 7 p.m. Tues Dear Alice and Ronnie, Had a long day today but nothing much to do tonight except go to bed early as we all are going to do as we arise at 4.30 a.m. Since we were up at 4.30 a.m. this morning too and I didn’t do much sleeping while in bed last night, I really planned to hit the hay early. It is raining here now - hard - and has been raining hard for over an hour. This is one day we were lucky we were dismissed tonight just as it started. That saved us two hours work drying our rifles. Before I forget it, I think I have some colored glases around there someplace, the kind that clamp over my regular glasses, if you can find them please send them down along with the other stuff. This sun down here nearly kills my eyes. Page two. Received a nice six-page letter from you tonight. Didn’t figure out whether you were being nice to me or trying to smooth out your trip to Pullman dance. Anyway, I appreciated it and as for the dance - that was alright too as long as you say you did behave yourself. But I guess you must have. Sounds like the boys are still pulling down the <? doe> at Pullman. All I can say is, it must be nice. As for you going back there for a short time or permanently - the answer is definitely NO. Money or no money. I think you have more than enough to do right where you are. And if you continue to do as good a job there - for my money - you are being a damn sight more patriotic than the rest. You think making $600 to $1300 a month is being patriotic[?] If it was then patriotic people would turn all that money[,] except for living requirements, over to some low relief fund or something. Nix on the patriots stuff. That’s gone with the wind, as far as I am concerned and most everyone page 3. else too, I think. The grass catcher on the lawn mower will work if you know how. It may be that the hook or hooks at the bottom of the mower by the wooden roller have gotten bent so they won’t hold the grass catcher correctly. If they have, take a pair of pliers and bend them out straight again. The thing always worked before, and if it isn’t broke, I am sure it will now. As for the grass falling forward, that’s because you hold the handle up too high. So Betty is coming to Chicago to gain weight - or something. Doesn’t sound right to me. Must be some other reason. However she is very nice and not at all like Edith. She is also very broad minded and I am sure you will like her if you get a chance to page 4 really get acquainted. She was or is my pick of the lot. Haven’t received any snaps as yet - what ever they are. Hope Eleanor and Dickie arrived O.K. and you are having a good time. Kinda crowded around there wasn’t it? Sounds like the women next door is a real bitch on legs. I certainly wouldn’t put up with much of her foolishness. I am enclosing some pictures taken recently. The fellow who took them for us didn’t hold the camera right as they aren’t so good. Please keep them altogether as someday I may want to look at them again. Well Ronnie, how are you doing today and did you have a big time playing with all the other little boys around there? Are you taking good care of Mommy and Eleanor for me. You make them both be good now and tell them not to work too hard. With lots of love, Daddy ...

25 May May 25, 1944

Posted at 16:03h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-25-44, 8:45 p.m. Thursday, Dear Alice and Ronnie, Two letters today, but none yesterday. The one you wrote Mon. night, I got today noon and the one you wrote Tuesday night I received tonight. You figure it out. Received a letter from Gladys yesterday - She said Dick was in an intelligence company which is part of a communications battalion, so is Message center. So you see he is in same type work only in a different company. However, I wouldn’t want his job for anything. It’s very important work and you have to be good in many things to get in it but it is very dangerous work. As I understand it, intelligence men go out on patrol in front of the front lines to secure the information that message center men who stay just behind the front lines receive Page two. and pass on to the right officers. They usually work at night and travel very light. Very often don’t even carry rifles. I imagine Dick will like it, but as I say, he can have it. Don’t tell Gladys what I have just told you as she probably is worrying enough already. It’s too bad he wouldn’t have been sent here because if he had and had been placed in an intelligence Co. here, he would be less than one block from me. We are in 226 BN here and 227 BN is intelligence - right next door. We filled out our furlough papers last night. That doesn’t necessarily mean we get furloughs though as we all filled them out and we all signed a statement saying we understood that filling these papers out didn’t necessarily mean we would get a furlough. If we get one, we will get 10 days plus traveling time. Airplane is out of question. We buy our own tickets, and then they reimburse us most of it when we reach our destination after furlough. Page three. Our papers were all made out for Fort Meade, Maryland. But they said they could be changed on a minute’s notice. As you know, Fort Meade is a P.O.E. or the last stop before Europe. Also got a letter from Forest yesterday. He is now a third class seaman, I think he called it. Anyhow, he gets $76 per month, and he said comparable to a Buck Sargent. Which is a damn sight better than I have. I am convinced that I am either a damn fool for not taking the Navy or am a pretty poor soldier. And if I am a poor soldier there are 180 more in this Co. just like me. As we are all still privates. Oh well maybe I am better off at that, I don’t know. All I know is the conveniences that he tells me he is now getting is a damn sight more and better Page four. already than I will ever get in the Army. Besides being stationed only 1/2 hr from home. And can call any time for five cents. That’s even better than if I were stationed at Fort Sheridan. That Russell Jaybird that called is a minister and a very good friend of mine. He was my roommate and fraternity brother at Indiana U. Besides, I worked at Marshall Fields the same time he did for a while. He is about the most intelligent young man I ever knew. I lost track of him about three years ago when he left for the East and was supposed to go to Scotland on a Rhodes Scholarship. The war started about then and I never heard what happened to him. I am glad to hear I have a package on the way but I hope it isn’t my <? bivance> party because if it is I can’t take it with me. You see we are not allowed to take anything out with us. But they have to deliver all packages that come through the mail. So you see packages are our only hope. Page five. Too bad about Eleanor - did she <? come> anyway? How did you like Betty and who does the baby look like[?] I can’t imagine Betty being thin. How does she seem to act about the baby? Glad you got over to Campbell’s. I can imagine what kind of an evening you must have had once Ben got going good. Please don’t forget about sending me the money. I must have it by June 24th or a couple days earlier. $40 or $50 should be plenty. Suppose you will have to raid the bank again. Well my dears, as we get up at 4 a.m. tomorrow and as we were up at 4:30 a.m. this morning and as it is now about 9:30 p.m. Page six. I think I shall put a stop to this and <? hit> the hay. Tomorrow is another tough day. We fire at moving targets all day and eat C rations in the field. Next week infiltrations course. That’s where we go through some kind of a course under actual fire. After that bivouac and we are about through with this place - then home. Just a month to go now. You had better start resting up - now. Lots of love to you both, Daddy ...

28 May May 28, 1944

Posted at 18:26h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-28-44, Sunday, 5 p.m. Noteworthy: Dad complains about the Army. Inquires about "Junior". Dear Alice and Ronnie, No letters for two days now. You are really slipping. I did get a little package today noon though, so I guess I will write you anyhow. I’ve been eating popcorn ever since - even had a couple pieces of angel food cake. Now that’s right up my alley. It wasn’t quite as good as the others [you’ve] sent me but still very good. I haven’t opened the other one yet. About half the fellows are out on pass so I am kinda holding back until they return. The package arrived in fairly good condition outside of that there is a trail of popcorn all the way from here to Chicago. Anyhow it’s all very good, and the only thing that could have made it any better would have been a couple of letters. It appears now that I will definitely be home in a month. The company just finishing across the page 2 alley are all being shipped to Camp Mead Maryland. They are keeping no one here. Always before they kept at least a few. I guess big things are afoot. They told us the other day that during the past four months there has been 18,000 men shipped from this camp - during the month of June, they are shipping 20,000 from here. I guess that means everyone goes as soon as they finish their basic. They reclassified a number of men in our company yesterday. Tony Shute - you remember the fat man with five kids in our hut - was one of those put in Class C. Class C’s all stay here now as administrative cadre of some form or other. He has been pretty sick about it today because along with having to stay in the hot hole[,] he doesn’t get a furlough. And he hasn’t even been out of camp on [a] pass since arriving in February. There were five or six others too. There’s nothing wrong with Tony except he drinks too much beer and can’t make the marches on account of his weight. At that, he has lost 28 pounds since coming here. I have had a very soft week-end. Would have gone to Jacksonville except for page three. the fact that I am definitely broke - I even borrowed five dollars from one of the boys so I could go to the shows and eat at Service Club last night. Saw a bad show besides witnessing a very disgusting incident caused by such army inefficiency that’s beyond excuse. Because some war hero named Kelly made a personal experience at the theater it was one hour late for opening at regular opening time 8:15 p.m. There were about 1000 men with tickets waiting outside the doors to get in all at once. Instead of having some system about controlling them[,] things ran wild for about 15 minutes. They finally had to call out [the] military police before order was restored and they could open the doors to let us in without a dozen or so being trampled to death. They pound into our heads all week about doing things in a military manner and expect us to do it and then because the army itself has no system at all about the little things it nearly caused riots right page four. in their own camps. Certainly makes one feel it’s all for nothing at times and when I see demonstrations like that I no longer wonder why it has taken us so damn long to get anywhere fighting this war. Well anyway I finally got in the show and then wished I hadn’t. This morning didn’t get up until 10 o’clock. Layed around until noon - ate then went to [the] show again this afternoon. Right now, I am laying out in the sun, getting a nice sunburn I am afraid, writing you. Tonight one of the fellows wants me to go to [the] USO show with him. I am not very keen on it but since I have never seen one [I] may go. We finally got through last week. It was a long week with very little chance for much sleep. We got up at 4:30 a.m. three times and once at 4:00 a.m. The other mornings regular 5:30. That 4:30 stuff soon gets tiresome. This week we have three bad days[,] twice up at 3 a.m. and in at 12 p.m. <?One> of those days the other morning 4 a.m. and a 9 mile speed march which we are required to make in two hours or less. That is the day we are all waiting for to be over. Then two weeks bivouac and with [a] week for cleaning up and we can kiss this place page five. goodbye with a great deal of pleasure. I wonder some time if June 24th will ever come. Also if the invasion and this war’s end will ever come. By the way I have a $5 bet on that the invasion will begin on or before June 15th. Keep your fingers crossed. You asked about the new medicine - it has not helped. In fact I am a little worse. Don’t know just how things are going to turn out in bivouac as they claim you don’t take a bath for two weeks and never change clothes. I know that is going to be just about right for skin trouble. So Ronnie thinks he is a man now and can choose and eat the food to his liking. It’s alright for him to have a mind of his own but be sure you remember he is far from being boss. Even sounds like Judy might be having tendencies towards leading a life of her own. Maybe she has found a new friend. page six By the way, what’s the latest on the progress of Junior. It must be time for something happening. And if it has happened[,] have you forgotten what you were going to do to see what is wrong if anything. You know a month isn’t very long, it may be our last chance for a long time. Some day, just in case I might never come back, you might want some body, all our own to remind you of me. Now I know that isn’t the nicest thing to be talking about but one must face facts occasionally. And this is no game I am participating in. If you were to see some of the actual war films they have shown us you would realize of the truth I am talking. Well my dears, this sun is getting very very warm. I either have to move or be cooked alive. So bye to both of you for now and please find out what’s wrong with the other end of this letter writing business. With lots of love, Daddy ...

29 May May 29, 1944

Posted at 18:23h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-29-44, Monday 7-15 p.m. Noteworthy: more description of basic training, Norma’s boy Wayne had trouble as an infant. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Here I am well into the last week of classroom work of basic training. We only have four more hours of code and an hour or two of this and that. But it certainly is good to know that we are nearing the end of this phase of Army life. Tomorrow we have what they say is our worst single day of the cycle. We arise at 3:30 a.m. and get in some time after midnight depending on how fast we get our work done. You see we go through infiltration course twice tomorrow once in daylight and once in nite besides we do closed combat firing. Of course as you know infiltration is going through a prescribed course under actual fire where live rounds are used. We also get our first use of live page 2 hand grenades. Most companies take two days for all this. They are combining it all together for us. Nice of them, isn’t it? Besides that we eat C rations all day. The C rations stuff has not been too good for my stomach either. Maybe it’s because I eat a lot of other junk in an effort to appease my appetite. Wednesday p.m. we have an other 8 hr problem in the field. We have to eat C rations cold in a foxhole during that little jaunt. Thursday and Friday we have easy days - Then Sat. 9 miles. Oh well - if I get through this week I think I can take anything. I have had a lot of experiences in my life and plenty of hard knocks but I am now thoroughly convinced that I have not yet seen everything. Sounds very much like you and Eleanor and Ronnie are really doing alright when it comes to getting the work done around there. Your page 3 garden really sounds like you are on the beam there and putting up all the screens is some accomplishment in itself. Don’t think I will soon forget that little detail when I return home. I am over my cold and don’t need any Vicks as I bought some here. Thanks just the same. Can’t figure out what happened to Ed Lewis at Packard Garage as he was half owner and really the big shot of the place. Did you tell Dan Regan who you were and tell him where I am? It may not do any good financially, but might. Can’t possibly see how it would cost $60 to fix the car up. As for selling it, you had better hold off for a while. Maybe if I am actually sent across, then I suppose you might as well sell it. We will see later anyhow. page 4 As for Lil DeYoung - she is nice and means well, but for some reason I could never see her. For one thing, she definitely talks too much. As for you having trouble with Ronnie and any brother and sister he may have later, I think that depends a great deal on his parents, don’t you think? Received a letter from Norma today. Am inclosing picture of their boy Wayne. Also some pictures Gladys sent me. Their boy Wayne is the one that caused them so much trouble when he was an infant. I was with them when it all happened. And I know they lived through four months of hell. Yet I know they wouldn’t give him up for anything. It seems everything turns out for the best if we just wait long enough. Oh yes, as for getting tired of your letters - all I can say is keep them coming - faster if you can. page 5 This letter is interupted ever so often. You see, I have to take time out to reach for more popcorn. We had a lousy lunch today so we ate the second cake. It lasted nearly two minutes - I got one piece. It was very good while it lasted. So Ray Hitchcock is in California. He gets around too. Nice that Sally could go out there. The short fat fellow is Mr. Hitchcock. Ray must be in about the same as Forrest is in. Does he have any rating yet! So Ronnie is already quite a party man. Teach him young. He might as well have a full life while young because I suppose when he gets about my age there will be another war he will have to go to. page 6 Still no letter from Murray, Hayes or Campbell’s. Are they mad at you, me, or just to[o] damn lazy to write. What has happened to Analee? You never mention seeing her anymore. Oh yes, you probably have guessed I may not have much opportunity to do much writing while in bivouac but that will be no excuse for you to let up any. In fact you should double your writing efforts then as letters will be about the only nice thing I will receive while out there. Besides letters makes the time go faster than anything else. Well Ronnie my boy it won’t be long now, maybe, so you be a good boy and eat all your spinach so you will be a big man by the time Daddy gets there. Don’t you and Eleanor work too hard. Too much backache and not much sleep isn’t so good you know. Love, Daddy ...

31 May May 31, 1944

Posted at 18:38h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5-31-44, Wednesday 10:15 p.m. Noteworthy: more on the training at boot camp Dear Alice and Ronnie, We have just finished two very hard days. Yesterday was a "bitch on wheels", and I’m not kidding. Today was almost as bad. We got up yesterday at 3:30 a.m. - C rations all day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We marched 8 miles out to range in 1 1/2 hrs. with full pack through sand. That almost killed us all. Then we were on the move all day going through infiltration course twice - close combat firing once and then the same march back. We got in at midnite and in bed at 2 a.m. Then up again at 5:30 a.m. Classes in [the] morning and an 8 hr command post exercise problem. In the afternoon eating cold C rations in the field. We got in a few minutes ago a bunch of very tired men. Page 2. Nothing hard now until Sat. then our speed march and we are ready for bivouac. The infiltration course was pretty tough. We crawled through sand 8 inches deep in the blazing hot sun for 75 yds that was the longest 75 yds I have ever traversed in my life. We crawled toward the machine guns over sandbags under barbed wire fence through trenches with bombs bursting all around us and those damn bullets whizzing overhead. Then we went through the same thing after dark. Then the only difference was we could see the bullets, as they used tracer bullets. When we finished, we had sticky, scratchy sand all over us. You can imagine how nice it felt with our clothes soaking wet from perspiration. Well, it’s over now, and we are very glad it’s over. One man passed out right after finishing the last time. He was the only casualty. Tonight most of the boys are staying up late cleaning their page 3. rifles as they have guard duty tomorrow nite and this is their last chance to get them clean before going on duty. I’ll be up next, either Sat. nite or maybe Sun. nite. Certainly hope I don’t get it Sat, as that will mean all day Sunday too. As for the package please send it sometime after June 4th and before about the 12th. What did you do Decorations Day? The one I spent here I don’t think I’ll ever forget. Certainly hope you get the watch as I really miss it. Citrenella is O.K. so is the bottle. We get back from Bivouac sometime Sat. June 17th. So Ronnie likes his Daddy’s letters well enough to sleep with them. Even you don’t do that. I guess he has you about sized up - calling you little Dickens. page 4. About the sore throat. You had better get after that - now. Too bad about Eleanor. But it’s the first time I ever had heard of tonsils growing back in once they had been taken out. Sounds like the new neighbors are really killers. We certainly have some real luck in drawing them as neighbors. Well, when this war is over - maybe before [-] will [we’ll] sell out to somebody with a dozen kids and then see how they like that. A $1,000 for 40-foot lot isn’t too bad. It’s about $200 more than I paid but that was 3 yrs ago. Well, my dears, it is now after 11 p.m. and I have had about 8 hrs sleep in the last 48 so think I will close for one night. I love you both very much and hope to see you soon. Love, Daddy ...

02 Jun June 2, 1944

Posted at 19:19h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler June 2, 1944 9:15, Fri. P.M. Noteworthy: more talk about Junior. Dear Alice and Ronnie: I am stealing a few minutes from <? B1> party to send you thanks for the two nice letters I received today. Especially the one with the $10. I really didn’t need it as we got paid Wed, you know. Will keep it and let it go on ticket home - I hope. This week is about over and I for one am very glad. It has been plenty rugged. If tomorrow were over, I would feel much better though. Our CO says we will all make the 9 mile speed march and if anyone drops out we will have another one on the way out to Bivouac Monday morning. That we definitely do not want. page 2 I haven’t heard anything about Dick. However I know it is very easy to get gassed when you go through that gas chamber. Just be a little bit careless or be slow in getting that mask on and it is too bad. Certainly hope he didn’t get a whiff of one of the deadly gases as it could be very serious. Let me know the particulars if you hear any more. As for Edith, I suppose you will have to go over there once in a while - especially while Betty is there. How does Betty seem to you by now? Too bad about Elinor - guess she needs a little better care than she has been getting or something. Could be of course that she might be working too hard. Just see that that doesn’t happen to you. Sounds like that damn Fern is still as crazy as ever and now even Jack is getting that way or maybe he is just doing as you page 3 suggested getting all he wants for nothing. Which is a typical Jew trick at that. To my opinion they both deserve to get burnt. As for you getting that way - well --- Received a nice long letter from Vita Campbell yesterday. Sounds like she has been pretty busy cleaning house <? its> too. As for Junior - you say it was only 27 days since you left. Well it seems like at least 22 weeks to me - at least 28 days. Well it’s been 28 days now - so -- Tomorrow afternoon (Sat.) and Sunday we prepare to go on Bivouac. We leave early Monday morning. Don’t know all we have to do to get ready yet but they say it’s quite a job. Anyhow the big day is here and page 4 in a little over two weeks now we definitely will be able to say when we get home and so on. It certainly will be a pleasure just to get away from this heat if nothing else. Suppose I will get in Chicago just in time to get in on the hottest part of the year there. If I do that will be something I am used to anyway. So Ronnie, you are tanned just like your Daddy. Are you? Well you have to be pretty tanned to be as black as I am in spots. Certainly glad you haven’t got Elinor’s cold. You tell her not to give it to you. [I] am inclosing a little news item in local camp paper about our Bivouac next week. Sounds rough doesn’t it? Well it probably won’t be too bad. With lots of love to you both, Daddy Addendum: newspaper clipping; headline - 10,000 Men In Bivouac Area Next Week Ten Battalions In Woods Will Set New Record. (See the photo.) ...

03 Jun June 3, 1944

Posted at 19:17h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 3-6-44 [6-3-44] 9:30 P.M. Saturday Noteworthy: heat wave in Florida Dear Alice and Ronnie, Saturday night and here I sit starting what may be the last letter I’ll get a chance to write for a couple weeks. They say we don’t have time to write letters on bivouac. But I’ll try to write you if I get half a chance. Well we got through our 9 mile march this morning with considerable effort. We made it in 1 hour and 46 minutes. That’s stepping it off, don’t you think? The last two miles were tough. I developed a <? steack> on my right side at the end of 7 miles and the last two miles I had a little trouble. We had three men pass out cold after they reached the finish. One had to be taken to the hospital and is still there. We got one break or there probably page 2 would have been more. They got us up at 4 A.M. and we finished it before it really got hot. By the way, there is some kind of a heat wave on here now, 100 degrees or over every day lately. Nice isn’t it? When we got in this morning we wrung perspiration out of our fatigues. Well anyhow, that’s another milestone past. Now bivouac and we are practically finished. This afternoon we washed all our clothes and tomorrow we make up our pack and one barracks bag - bed early then an early start Monday morning. I went to Stark this eveniing - had a good T-bone steak dinner and bought a few things I needed for bivouac. On the way back I rode back with a young lady with a little boy a little younger than Ronnie (18 months). He thought I was his Daddy and snuggled up to me and went to sleep in my arms just like Ronnie did. Sure made me homesick for both of you. This lady’s husband was being shipped out someplace - but he is in class C so he won’t go out of country. She is going to follow him around the country. page 3 It seems to me if Elinor is still sick it would pay her to go to a Doctor. Someone besides the Pullman quack. Certainly hope she is better by this time. Well my dears, I’m kind of tired, and since I have no stamp and can’t find anyone else here who has I will finish this sometime tomorrow. Maybe I’ll have more to say then - Oh yes, almost forgot they took up a collection for beer for Bivouac. [They] Have enough for 500 bottles. Sounds like someone is going to do a little drinking while out there. Guess I’ll have to learn how to be a beer drinker in order to get my money’s worth. Got the colored glasses and films and mosquito stuff today. Thanks. Good night. Sunday, 6:30 P.M. Well here I am again. We have been page 4 busy all day washing clothes, mess kits, packing and a dozen other little details necessary to go on a little two week vacation. This entire company has changed in the last few days. It just seems like no one cares for anything. I guess we are all happy that this <? 12> weeks ordeal is about over. We roll a full field pack and a barracks bag. The barracks bag they take out on a truck. We leave at 3:30 A.M. in the morning. We hear we go all the way from 10 to 15 miles. Guess we won’t know until we actually get there. Tonite we have had bed check at <? 9> P.M. The first since arriving here. This afternoon I stole enough time to go to the show. [I] saw, "On the Eve of St. Mark’s," with Ann Baxter. It was very good and you should see it. It would be a good show for Murray to see if you could tactically suggest it to him. The first part of the picture is very true of many things that we go through here. The latter part is yet to come, I suppose. No doubt you are preparing yourself for the fact that I am going across. They receive[d] a V-mail page 5 letter here yesterday signed by about 50 members of our company who were going out as we came in. They are somewhere in the So. Pacific. Most of them went to Fort Ord Calif from here. I received a nice long letter from Murray today - but none from you. He gave me all the lowdown plus saying he was definitely leaving Pullman. He said he sold his house for $8,100 net, which is a little less than what he had wanted. Personally, I think he was acting a little fast. I am enclosing a few pictures taken in the last week or so. Those inside were taken late in the evening at one of our package parties. That’s about the way it always looks when we receive a package from home. page 6 I am anxious to hear about Dick. I wrote him a letter but have received no answer from him. He is either too sick to write, too busy or too lazy. Well Ronnie, your Daddy will soon be seeing you again now. Are you being a good boy and helping Mommy out so she will be all rested up for Daddy when he gets there? Just tell her not to worry about getting anything ship-shaped because I’ll have to do something when I get there. Good night my dears and I’ll do the best I can to write you when I can if I get time. In the meantime keep me posted daily and I’ll be seeing you soon. With lots of love to you both, Daddy. ...

05 Jun June 5, 1944

Posted at 19:12h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 6-5-44 Mon. 6:30 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie: I am taking a few minutes before it gets dark to write a few words that is if it doesn’t rain too hard[,] it’s sprinkling right now. 10 minutes later. It’s raining now and we are cramped up inside this hot pup tent as tight as a drum. I am bunking with Rogers[,] the fellow whose wife stayed on the 3rd floor that last week-end you were in St. Augustine. These pup tents are 6 1/2 feet long and 4 feet wide so with our barracks bag, rifles, and packs, and two men you can imagine how much room we have. I am writing by flashlight[,] which I am not supposed to have[,] laying on my blanket. We spent all day setting up camp after a 3 1/2 hour march early this morning. The part of it isn’t so bad. page 2 In fact after the march the rest of the day has been rather like a picnic. First we put up our tent[,] dug a drainage trench around it[,] then we built our foxhole and camouflaged it. We had all day to do it and we took it. We are about 12 miles from camp in a wooded section on pretty high ground. The mosquitoes are big as birds and ticks and chiggers by the thousands. We eat chow from our mess kits and drink from our canteen. It’s all very much "roughing it". Oh yes, it has rained off and on all day and we know these tents will shed water if put up right. We only made a few changes. Just got a letter from you, one mail call a day here. Glad to hear my watch is on the way. Hope my big package is too because if today is a sample page 3 of the food we are going to get[,] I am going to be plenty hungry. Just happened, Roger’s wife sent her package a few days ago and we were able to bring some of it in our barracks bag. We have had a large can of peaches and tomato juice so far - and I am still hungry. So Ronnie went to a party, Did he? I’ll bet he had a big time and they had a big time trying to make him behave. Certainly hope things went off well. Did Gladys come in and what is the latest news about Dick? Certainly hope he is not in bad shape. We had a gas page 4 attack on our march out. We all got through it O.K. It’s pretty nice here and if it weren’t for the fact that it’s practicing for the real thing I think we all would enjoy it. Of course after a few days and we really start to work and get good and dirty without being able to wash[,] I might very possibly change my mind. In fact, probably will. I think I will be on guard tomorrow nite, and Wed nite. We work late so you probably won’t hear from me for a couple days. However, will write something if I get a chance. In the meantime keep things rolling, and it won’t be long now. I love you both lots, Daddy ...

06 Jun June 6, 1944

Posted at 19:14h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Thursday 9 A.M. 6-6-44. Noteworthy: D-day, Dad describes more boot camp stress. Description of C rations. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Everything is bright this morning. The sun is shining after raining all night and best of all[,] early this morning[,] the lieutenant brought out news that the invasion had started. I won $5 besides the fact that if this invasion is successful I may never have to go across after all. We spent a miserable nite last nite. At about 8 P.M., we had an enemy attack and had to crawl into our wet foxholes in the dark and wait. Then there was a gas attack and we had gas masks on for about 15 min. After that officers came around and asked us <? j..t> and questions. We got in bed about 9 p.m. It was raining and dark as hell. We had to button the tent up tight and it was suffocating. We didn’t get much sleep. Oh yes, the ground wasn’t the softest bed in the world. We got up at 5 A.M. Did you ever try putting your clothes [on] and dressing in pitch dark? Well it can be done. page 2 Right now we are on a 4-hour field problem on Message Center. I am sneaking a few minutes here and there to write this as I won’t have any opportunity to write tonight. We are out until 12 P.M. Oh yes, did I tell you we are on C rations all day today. Cold pork and beans for breakfast, dinner and supper. I am sitting on the wet ground with a message book as a pad to hold this paper and keeping a sharp lookout for officers. On hand <? po...

06 Jun June 6, 1944

Posted at 11:56h in Letters

Letter from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler June 6, 1944 Tuesday, 11:30 p.m. Hello, honey, I ’spect by the time you get this you’ll probably be just too tired to even care. Am I right? Today has been a very quiet day. Not a thing exciting has happened. As if anything ever does! First thing this morning while Mrs. Page washed her clothes, I emptied all those bushels baskets of junk I cleaned out of the basement outdoors and had a big fire. It lasted for a couple of hours, and Ronnie was thrilled to death, page 2 just watching it from the window. After that I got down on my hands and knees and scrubbed the kitchen and bathroom floors and waxed them. Then ironed clothes again. Also the toilet’s been flooding off and on ever since Sunday when Gladys put something in it that she shouldn’t have. (Please don’t mention it to her, or she’ll think I’m a louse!) I’m having an awful time, as ever Murray’s plunger doesn’t help at all. Tonight I packed your bivouac party. I hope you get it O.K. I wanted to bake something for it page 3 too, but as it may be delayed in reaching you on account of your being out of camp, I decided not to. I’m going to ask Mr. Page if he’ll take me to the Post office as I won’t get the car until 5:30 tomorrow night. I sent some paper napkins and some wax paper, which might come in handy. Marge called me from work yesterday and asked how I was etc. She also said she may send you a pkg while you’re on bivouac. Gladys said she would send something too. If Marge, Gladys, and Mrs. Hayes all keep their word you should page 4 have lots to eat. But doubt if they all will. Oh well, at least I hope you get mine O.K. I thought I’d better tell you about sending it, so that if you shouldn’t happen to get it for some reason, you’ll know it’s not my fault anyway. Guess who called me today? Elsie Carlson’s sister [Lillian] of all people! Her new baby boy is now 3 months old. She lives at 106th and Sangaman in a 6 room bungalow, which they now own. Elsie still lives with her she said, but she sees very little of her, as she’s out all the hours every night. She just came page 5 back from Tampa, Florida. She was there a month on sick leave to visit a girl who is in the WAACs, (At least so she told her sister.) She also told me Elsie is wearing lipstick, which is almost black and is hennaing her hair red. [She] Also said Elsie is getting tougher all the time and she said she’s probably as tough inside as she looks outside. She wants me to come over and spend the day with her sometime soon. How can sisters be as different as Lillian and Elsie? I asked if Elsie is still engaged to Harvey. She said "yes," but page 6 You’d never know it, as she goes [out] with anybody and everybody and writes Harvey once in a while. He has been in the South Pacific for 6 months she said. Ronnie’s sniffles are all gone now and he’s just as full of the old Nick, as ever. Judy is still having the time of her life and she has boyfriends calling for her both day and night. They could at least let me sleep. Right now she’s snoring away back of my chair! I just wrote a letter to the Treasury Dept. telling them you were page 7 in the Army and if that income tax balance of $66.62 can wait until the war is over. Wonder what the answer will be? Do you know that the temperature here is less than 50 degrees now, and I have to have the heat on. Isn’t that terrible, from dresses to winter coats. The men are even wearing top coats. Here last Sunday it was 90 degrees in the shade. It also rained again today. I’m afraid my garden is going to freeze. I hope not! Elinor went to work again tonite, so I guess she’s really much better. page 8 Murray is s’posed to have written you. Did you get a letter yet? He told Elinor they had planned on coming over Sunday, but Marge’s sister and brother-in-law came in from Washington, D.C., so they couldn’t come. Mr. Dixon asked about you today, also Dr. Elliot and Mrs. Elliot, and Mrs. Hand inquire about you once in a while. Well, darling, I’ve all run out of news, so we’ll get to bed, as it’s now 12:30 A.M. and I must mow the lawn and sprinkle the garden in the morning. Keep that chin up and grin and bear it, when things get tough. Won’t be long till we see you. Love forever, Mom and Ronnie ...

07 Jun June 7, 1944

Posted at 12:43h in Letters

Birthday card to Pvt George W. Shonkwiler (page 1) Birthday greetings to my Husband in the Service (page 2) A Birthday wish for happiness That you and I may share Days to be spent together, Dear, When skies have turned more fair, A Birthday wish for best of luck Wherever duties call ...

07 Jun June 7, 1944

Posted at 19:08h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 6-7-44 Wed 7:30 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad’s philosophy on disiplining children. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Just time for a short note before it gets too dark to see. I’m sitting here besides our tent, the mosquitoes biting like hell. I’m leaning against a tree swatting away. My helmet is my seat. We have just finished having our daily rifle inspection and I took a washcloth bath from half a helmet of water. That is all the bath we take for two weeks. I don’t know whether I’m going to make it or not, as my skin condition has gotten much worse since coming out here. However, I am going to hold out if I can as I don’t want to have to go through the bivouac again. 16 hours away is all we are allowed. If you miss more than that, you have page 2 to take it over with some other company. Received a nice long letter and [which had] my watch tonite. Thanks very much for both, no package yet, but Rogers got another one, so we are set until mine comes. I hope you were able to mail it today. We had a fairly easy day today. Six hours class and two hours of field work. And no rain. Tomorrow we have C rations again, which means we rate the ice box or barracks bag if you prefer. Glad to hear Dick was not seriously injured. Will look Les up when I get back to camp. 199 <? Bn> is a rifle company, but he may be transferred from there as most every one goes to a rifle company the first few days. As for giving us furloughs right after we finish training[,] we don’t know for sure. Most of the Co. usually is shipped out the following week. A few for some unknown reason, are held for a page 3 few days up to a week or two. Of course, if I go to the hospital with this skin trouble, they may hold me a while. That’s one of the biggest reasons why I don’t want to go as I am really fed up with this place. we get practically no news of the invasion here. Certainly is a suspense. The reports we do get, however, all sound good. So I guess and hope it is going alright. How is Ronnie’s cold? Certainly hope you caught it in time and he is alright. I suppose Joyce is really a spoiled gal now that Dick isn’t there to put his foot down once in a while. Just be sure you don’t spare the rod with page 4 Ronnie, if it becomes necessary. Has <? Dinor> been able to go back to work for good yet. You tell her I think she just likes to lay around a little too much. Of course I <? ...

08 Jun June 8, 1944

Posted at 19:10h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 8 June 44 1410, Thurs. Noteworthy: letter written on "message center" paper on bivouac; more about boot camp life; Dad inquires about Junior; Dad gets report that Alice is a good wife. Dear Alice and Ronnie, We are having another message center field problem and since we get a chance to loaf on these problems you are getting the benefit. And then I have to write now or not at all today as I have guard duty tonite. It won’t be so bad as I get out of a 4 hr nite field problem. They are worthwhile missing anytime. The weather is nice again today and when the weather is nice the bivouac stuff is bearable. page 2 You see in the Army we take advantage of everything at hand - hence the stationery. These are used message center blanks that we write our messages on. Right now I am what is known as <? Sa1> or Charge of Personnel - and I write all messages that has [have] anything to do with personnel in the battalion. Of course it’s all assimilated [simulated] - Just good practice. Tomorrow, Friday, we have another long day then Sat. we move camp to page 3 another location. That means tear everything down[,] move[,] and then set it back up again includes digging new foxhole[s], camouflaging, etc. Then we stand field inspection and I guess the day’s work is over[,] also one half of our bivouac. Sat. night and Sunday, they say we have our beer party. There certainly are a lot of dry throats out here. We are getting 80 cases of beer so you can imagine what it’s going to be like, I can anyhow. page 4 I’m afraid next week is going to be rather tough on some of the boys as next Monday we work until midnite then get up Tues. at 3 A.M. and march 8 miles (they say) to artillery range where we participate in some kind of a problem. Then Thursday, we start our 36 hr message center problem in the field. That’s 36 hrs without sleep and all we have to eat is C rations. The only good part about that is it will be the end of Bivouac and we leave for Camp when it’s over. Then one more week and home - I hope. page 5 And I hope you will be all prepared - rested up and so forth. Oh yes, how about junior and have you seen a doctor yet? Well my dears, for now, this is all. May get a chance to add a little sometime before mailing. If I don’t - bye and I’ll be seeing you both soon now. Love, Daddy. 6.30 P.M. Just have a minute before I fall out for guard duty. page 6 Received six letters today[,] 3 from 110 St. Union. Thanks very much for the nice birthday cards. One from Edith, one from Gladys, and one from Mr. Chamberlin. Must go. Lots of love, Daddy Oh yes, Gladys seemed to think you are doing a page 7 good job and was turning out to be a darn nice wife. What all did you give her anyhow? Of course other people are just finding out what I have known for some time. GWS ...

11 Jun June 11, 1944

Posted at 14:45h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 6-11-44 Sun. 9:30 A.M., Noteworthy: more description of the rigors of boot camp. Dear Alice and Ronnie: Sunday morning - half through bivouac, and am still going strong - or at least still going. I don’t think I have written for a couple days so we’ll bring you up to date. Friday was a rough day. In the morning we ran a compass course and unfortunately there were some of us who overshot our mark. I was one of them. Consequently we practically got lost and went through some of the damnedest swamps I have ever seen. We were supposed to get back at camp at 11:30 A.M.[,] we made it at 2 P.M. There were eight of us together and we were a tired bunch of boys I can tell you. We estimated page 2 we had walked thru about 5 or 6 miles of some of the worst Florida has to offer. Shortly after getting back it began to rain and rained the rest of the day and evening. That evening we went out on another 4 hr. rifle problem and flopped around in more rain and water until midnight. Yesterday[,] Sat.[,] we had a layout inspection of all GI equipment. All I can say is I hope we have no more of those. They gave us from 7 A.M. to 8:30 A.M. to prepare for it. We did a day’s work in one hour and a half. After that we broke down all our equipment, packed up, and moved about two miles. We arrived here at our present location at 11 A.M. and spent the rest of [the] morning and part of [the] afternoon digging in and setting up camp. At 3:30 they allowed us all to go down to a small stream about 1 1/2 miles away and bathe and wash some clothes. That water was cold as hell. And it sure felt good as [the] temperature was in [the] 90s. After that[,] chow and about 8 P.M. our page 3 beer party started. It started with a bang and really was quite a success. There was enough good cold beer for everyone. I had four bottles myself (for which I am still paying via my stomach) and others had as high as 8 or 10. There were a few who seemed to have a little too much but nothing serious. We had a large bonfire and there was spontaneous entertainment from the men. I was surprised the amount of entertainment talent there was amongst us. Sams did his share and was one of the best. He has composed a couple pieces about salt pills and about camp Blanding that are really good. About 1 A.M. we broke up into smaller groups, built small fires and opened up our packages from home. Oh yes, my huge package came just in time. page 4 The fruit cake lasted exactly one minute. Every thing was swell[,] nothing broke and it really hit the spot. I finally got in bed about 3 A.M. to roll and toss until 8 this morning. Then I gave up. Had a little breakfast and that brings me up to date. Today we loaf[ed] and we certainly can stand it. Just hope it doesn’t rain as that would spoil the day for sure. It is cloudy but as yet dry. Monday our schedule starts out with a bang. We work all day then in the evening we run another 4 hr compass course. If my average doesn’t improve I may never get back. Anyhow we are supposed to be back by midnight[,] then 3 hrs sleep, up at 3 A.M. and march out to some artillary range. By that time the week will practically be over and we won’t give a damn for anything that follows. So far we have had a little of everything. One fellow from our hut is in [the] hospital from poison oak, another from page 5poison ivy or something. We have killed a number of snakes both poisonous and non-poisonous. We fall in our own and others fox holes at night. We wear blisters on our hands <? sligging> the drawstrings, we lay on the wet ground in pouring down rain by the hour assimilating something or other, walk guard when you can’t see your hand in front of you, work off gigs because we were lax for a few minutes (I’m lucky so far - no gigs), eat our meals either out of C rations cans or out of dirty mess gear that’s almost impossible to keep clean. Wash, shave and bathe out of one canteen of water or less if you’re not too unfortunate. Two days last week I didn’t wash as I perferred drinking my water. And all of us grinning the best we can - bearing it and waiting patiently for Sat. and the end. And then home we hope. When I stop to page 6 think of those poor men who have been in this thing for 2 and 3 yrs [I] get sick and then those who have been prisoners that long it’s worse <? yet>. Well they say we must have bad with good - perhaps soon we are going to get lots of good, I hope. No letters yesterday. Too much prosperity the day before, I guess. First day without mail and I did get the package yesterday so guess I can consider myself pretty lucky. I’m thinking seriously of postponing the balance of this letter until after mail call tonite. I’m beginning to feel sleepy and I do need sleep so may see you later. 2 15 P.M. Three letters and dinner and more rain later. The rain has stopped, the fried chicken is eaten and all three letters read. One very nice one from you. Birthday card and letter from Dad and a page 7 letter from Norma saying she is sending me a birthday package. We have C rations at least two more days and possibly three so every little bit helps. We had some pretty fair fried chicken - for the army - boiled potatoes with skins on, asparagus[,] lettuce and coffee. You don’t have desserts on bivouac so for dessert I am having delicious caramels. Those two packages of caramels really are alright. As for war news, I guess there isn’t much, but we get very little. I am getting my tribune three days late. However that’s fresh news to us. This is a lazy afternoon. Some fellows washing clothes out of helmets, some sleeping some playing cards, some writing letters, some cleaning rifles and some just sitting around page 8 doing nothing. It certainly is good to get a free day. This Mrs. Hines you mentioned worked for me at Smith’s. Her divorced husband is half owner of that lot I own on 124th and Stewart. She is pretty nice[,] very strong-headed but otherwise [a] pretty smart woman. At one time she was raising her 4 boys and two of her brothers on $25 per week plus a little help here and there. She deserves a lot of credit. As for my furlough, if I get one it won’t start June 24 - but sometime during the following week probably. Don’t forget to send the money around the 18th of June. So our little boy Ronnie is getting into lots of trouble continually. That must be good because that means he is as perfectly normal little boy. They just announced that we are going to have a orchestra and [a] little entertainment in [a] few minutes and more beer[,] so guess I’ll leave now and it won’t be long until I see you maybe. Lots of love to you both, Daddy ...

12 Jun June 12, 1944

Posted at 14:47h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 12 June, 44 Mon. 1335Q Noteworthy: Dad writes letter on bivouac, shows form of coded messages. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Here we are starting on our last week of bivouac. Today all day we are set up in the field under tactical combat situation working as a message center unit. This AM I was a switchboard operator[,] this afternoon [I] am acting as code clerk. Both jobs are sitting jobs and really pretty much of a snap, which I take easily in stride. Of course you know what a switchboard operator is. Army style is practicaly the same page 2 as in civilian life. Code clerk is something else again. The code machine we operate or converter as it is called is a small contraption about 8"x6"x6" in size and costs $1,100 they claim. It is a secret machine and we spent several hours learning how to operate it. However, any dumbbell can do it. This paper [on which this letter is written] is code paper used when we send messages by pigeon. I hope I never have to send one by pigeon as they are used only as a last resort when all other means page 3 of communication has [have] been cut off and we are completely surrounded by the enemy. I am sending you a sample message using the exact procedure we use here. [See the addendum.] I hope you like it. Yesterday after writing you I attended the little jam session they had out here for us. No women, all music and spontaneous entertainment. Where one doesn’t have any entertainment for a long time anything sounds pretty good. There was some of this pretty good though. page 4 There was a concert pianist from the battalion who really brought down the house. Some pretty good singers etc. Oh yes, did I mention that I attended open air church yesterday. Now I have done everything. Tonite we run our four hour nite compass problem and it has been raining off and on again today. If it is raining tonite we look forward to plenty of trouble all lights are absolutely prohibited. page 5 I wish you could see us here now. We are set up right at the edge of a swamp under trees. There is water all around us and we are sitting here perched up on a pile of chips from a tree that has been cut down leaning our backs against a stump. I am working with Tony Schutte. Our feet and legs to lower knees are soaking wet. And we have had our raincoats off and on a dozen times. Tony is trying his best to keep a small fire going but as a fire builder he is a royal flop. Suppose you think we never work but in between everything page 6 else we squeeze in a message once in a while. It’s taken me two hours or more to write this. Changing jobs now so must close - I am going to be guard for [the] next two hrs. So guess I’ll have to work a little. See you later - with love, Daddy 1500 I am now a guard and it’s still a sitting job. The only thing, I have to keep my eyes open also my ears. I am now sitting on a log in the woods writing this on my helmet watching for anything or anyone page 7 who might come or go. It’s a little nicer here as I am on higher ground and the sun is shining again. So maybe I’ll get dried out a little. We go on C-rations tomorrow and again all day Thurs. and Friday. There isn’t going to be anything left of my box from home by then I assure you. So far no one else has <? sent> anything. And if they want it to get here in time to do any good they had better hurry. Well think I’ll quit before I carry my good fortune too far. So far no one has caught me. They caught one fellow on guard asleep this morning. It’s really going to be T.S. for him. May add a little at chow time if I get a chance. GWS page 8 6:30 P.M. Just have a few minutes to let you know that my birthday cake came tonite along with a nice box of cookies from Edith. The cake was very much flattened out but that didn’t seem to make one bit of difference. I took one piece[,] called the fellows to come over and help themselves, then turned around for a few minutes. When I turned back there was no more cake. The cookies page 9 are going almost as fast. We had a lousy meal tonite so guess we all were plenty hungry. Sounds like Packard was a little high. Hold it up until I get there. I’ll go see him. As for my birthday kiss[,] when I get there - well don’t worry - I’ll see to that. Must go - lots of love to you both, Daddy Addendum: page 1 Time Filed 1350Q, MSG CEN NO. 2, HOW SENT Letter, CLASSIFICATiON URGENT MESSAGE No. 1 DATE 12 JUNE 44 TO ALiCE AND RONNIE - CHICAGO On this my 33rd birthday I send you both all my love and hope and pray that on all our other birthdays we may be allowed to celebrate them together OFFICIAL DESIGNATION OF SENDER CD 1st BN, TIME SIGNED 1340Q page 2 CBDFG Time Filed 0311, , MSG CEN NO. 1, HOW SENT Msg, CLASSIFICATiON MESSAGE No. 1 DATE 12 JUNE 44 TO CO LINF Send one CO of shock troops to me on 15 June OFFICIAL DESIGNATION OF SENDER CD 1st BN LINF TIME SIGNED 1306Q SIGNATURE AND GRADE OF WRITER D. Siliage M of S1 ...

15 Jun June 15, 1944

Posted at 16:54h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 4-15-44 [6-15-44] Thursday, 8:30 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Here I am on the eve of <? our> big 36 hr [hour] CPX [Command Post Exercise ?] problem and I have a few moments before absolute dark to let you know I am still getting along. I have been assigned to Message Center in Division Headquarters for the problem. Since all the big shots will be hanging out there, I doubt if I will get a chance to do any writing. So the next time you hear from me it will be after we are back in camp - and that certainly will be a relief. page 2 I received no letter yesterday, but got two today. Since I was on KP yesterday, didn’t have a chance to write you. I did get a package of cookies from Marge (they were very good) and a nice big box from Claude. It was almost as large as the one you sent. You should see my pack. It’s so full of extra food that I am practically weighted down. We leave at 7 A.M. in the morning and come back 5 P.M. Friday. All we take is food - nothing else. If we sleep at all it will be on the sly, on the ground. The compass problem Monday night was a breeze. Got in a little after 11 P.M. In bed by midnight then up Tuesday at 3 A.M. We page 3 saw very interesting battle practice that morning. Actual live ammunition was used in rifles, mortars, cannons, and so on. We even had airplanes with live ammunition. We sat in stands and watched. It convinces me more and more that I am glad I am not in rifle company. What company and battalion was it that Dick’s brother is in down here? Let me know at once and will try to find him. So far we have only rumors about going home. The latest one is that one week from next Tuesday June 28th 125 men page 4 will be shipped out. Don’t know who and it is definitely a rumor. However, we will know for sure soon enough now. Well Ronnie old boy, if all goes well your Daddy will be home to see you and Mommy very soon now. So be a very good boy and when I get home you can sing happy birthday for Daddy all over again. The <? center is> dark now <? and I have> to <? walk> through the mess of foxholes about two hundred yards to mail this. I fell in one already today so [I] think I will take off while there is just a little light left. Lots of love to you both, Daddy ...

17 Jun June 17, 1944

Posted at 23:56h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 6-17-44 Sat 9:30 P.M. Noteworthy: hot weather in Florida, well over 100; Dad’s skin troubles flare up again. Dear Alice and Ronnie: Camp Blanding Company area - I never thought I would be glad to see this place but I certainly was this morning. We arrived about 9:30 A.M. and spent the rest of the day <? g 1 ing> [washing] everything we took with us on bivouac - and it really needed it. We washed everything from tents, shoes, socks, blankets, underwear, packs, tent rope, tent poles, and so on even ourselves. This place looked like a big washing machine. And I do have a sore back from stooping over that washboard. By now you can tell I am back safe and - not so sound maybe - I plan on going on sick call in the morning on account of my skin. It is really page 2 pretty bad. I am covered from head to foot with something very similar to heat rash plus mosquito bites, tick bites, chigger bites, and what have you. Plus my regular trouble. The heat rash or what looks like it[,] may be just that, I don’t know. I do know we have had the hottest weather down here the last three days that I have ever been in. It’s well over a 100 degrees and really hot. Well our 36 hr CPX problem was plenty tough and being in Division headquarters it was much easier on us than on the rest of the poor fellows in the lower units. In the first place our command post was located on pretty high ground and we never had to move. That meant we only had to dig in once, Regiments, Battalions. and Observation Posts (and by the way in Observation post[s] are where intelligence men are located or what Dick is in. They are page 3 way out in front) had to move twice and each time they had to dig in all their foxholes, and dig in all their communication machines such as radios, switchboards, telegraph machines etc and they were located on low ground. Well anyhow we left on our Bivouac area at 7 A.M. Thursday[,] marched about two miles and by noon everyone was dug in and we had communications established with both regiments, four battalions and all OPs [Observation Posts]. From OPs to Division were scattered over an area about two miles wide and three miles deep with the enemy about 500 yards from the OPs. We had assimilated enemy attacks and withdrawals and counter-attacks. It was all very interesting at first but after about page 4 20 hours of it, it got pretty tiresome and by the time Friday 5 P.M. rolled around we were plenty glad to get the hell out of there. We changed off jobs during the problem[,] during the 36 hours I was messenger, switchboard operator, code clerk, telegraph operator, and dug a foxhole. I was able to snatch about 3 hrs altogether of very restless sleep on the bare hard sand with mosquitos having a merry picnic in the meantime. Then to top it all off when we got back to Bivouac area last nite and was [were] packing everything in preparation for an early start this morning it rained and I mean it poured down. We were swamped. We all got out in the rain, most of us naked, digging trenches, holes and what have you, anything to keep the water away from inside our tents. So we spent our last miserable nite in Bivouac. One I’ll never forget. page 5 Don’t know what all we do this last week but it doesn’t matter much as far as we care[,] our cycle is over. However, one day this week we have what they call Physical Fitness Day, where we review everything from a physical standpoint that we have gone through. That means that damn obstacle course once more and a four-mile speed march etc. Of course, we absolutely do not know, but the rumors are still very persistent that there will be 125 men shipped out of here on Tuesday, June 27th, and the rest two days later. However as soon as I hear definitely will try to call you. If I leave on Tuesday page 6 I think they will tell us next Friday. So you see, my dears a few days after you receive this you may be hearing from me in a more direct manner - that is, if I am not sent to the hospital with this damn skin trouble and heaven forbid that down here in this heat. Well Ronnie, ole boy, you had better get on the ball and be a good boy fast because your daddy may be home soon to take over for a few days. I received your nice Father’s Day cards and have a letter in my pocket saying I have a package at the express office. Also received a package of cookies, cake and small satchel from Norma today. We had a real party in our hut this afternoon on many of the late packages. We had everything from good whiskey, good food to plain old cheese and crackers, plus entertainment from our talented boys. There must have been 20 or 30 in here, plus most of the cadre. There is nothing left - I know that. Must close. Love, Daddy ...

19 Jun June 19, 1944

Posted at 16:53h in Letters

Camp Blanding, Florida 6-19-44 Mon. 8 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Four days to go, then a few days wait and home. Boy, I am telling you it is going to seem like heaven to get out of this place and be home again. Friday we graduate -- diploma and all -- they say. That diploma is really going to be something I know. Rumor still has it that most of us will leave here Tuesday, but no official word yet and won’t be before Friday or Saturday. By the way, if you haven’t already sent the money, you had better get it off the fastest possible way. Now for your letter I received today the blue one or something. Of course, I am not foolish enough to think that everything always goes along at home on an even keel and 100% perfect. On the other hand, I hope and don’t think things are as bad as this letter pictures. Perhaps it is because you have been working too hard and you may not be feeling up to par. You are not holding out on me are you? It couldn’t be that junior is finally on the way. I hope the symptoms sound promising. Now back to the regimental subject. I don’t like very much you paying any attention or <? time> thinking about such things as me marrying you for the reasons you gave or for any other than the real one. And that is that I love you very much and I knew from the first you would make a good wife and mother both of which to my opinion you have most certainly done. You and I both know when we were planning on getting married that there would be <? criticisih> and difficult moments to live through. But I think we both agreed that our lives were our own to live as we saw fit and as long as we satisfied each other that would be all we were to worry about. I for one still feel that way 100%. And I want you to feel the same way. As for me going to the army to get away from you or some such foolish reason you know there is absolutely no foundation for that belief at all. As much as I hate this damn army, and I know my hate is as strong as anyone who is in it, I believe I have always felt <? locu> before meeting you. Yes, <? locu> while Margaret was living. That some day as I would be in it, and it would be the only right thing to do. Now I didn’t think I am trying to be heroic, just fulfilling a certain service of duty. A duty many people that I know and you know. Many who are doing what they can to make life harder for us. Do not seem to realize they should have too. It is people like them who will be one of the reasons why we will have to remain away from home that much longer. I would like to see some of them trade places with any of us for just one short month. They would soon see that war is hell <? loue> in a training camp. And they would soon realize that very few men get into the army just so they can get away from home. Tell some of them that just last weekend alone, four men that we know of in this camp died. Two from the heat of exhaustion, one from lightning and another they didn’t give out the reason. Right now in our own company we have a man who took sick while we were in bivouac either from our drinking water or from the water we had to lay in most of the day and sleep in all the night, and has been unconscious since last Sat. And has definitely been practically been given up for dead a number of times. His folks flew down and they haven’t been able to see him. The man killed by lightning was standing in the doorway of his hut right across this street from our mess hall. The heat here is constantly above 100 degrees. Today is 110 degrees and right now I am laying here with absolutely nothing on with the perspiration dripping from me in streams. Tell them some of those things and then maybe they will take heed and tend to their own business and do a little better job of the things they are supposed to be doing. Now once again my dear just keep in mind that the only person in the world that you have to satisfy is me - your husband. So far I am very well pleased with you, what you are doing and the way you are doing it. Now for something else. In order to satisfy me when I am home you are going to have to be 100% well and not all tired out, I don’t know what all you have in mind for us to do, but I for one would be satisfied to just remain at home and rest and enjoy you and Ronnie and our home. It may be some time before I’ll get another chance, so I want to take full advantage of it. If people want to see me, let them come over. They know where we live and I would much rather the house be a little out of order and the grass a little long than to have you work yourself to death trying to get everything in apple pie order by the time I get there. You know I think I can still push a lawnmower. I am glad you went to this doctor. What did he say and did he remember you? I hope the news is very encouraging. I didn’t go in sick call yesterday. I was afraid they would send me to the hospital and I didn’t think I would stand that down here, especially at this time. Besides now that I have had a couple nights rest, it has cleared up a little. Rest always seems to help. We spent the morning today turning in some of our clothing. Mostly winter stuff. This afternoon four hours of very boresome classwork, all review. You can imagine how much we gave a damn for classes by this time. We are a very carefree, don’t give a damn bunch I can assure you. We feel just like come what may, we can take it in stride. I guess everyone feels this way during their last week in this place. Well my dears, this is a little longer letter than usual and may make up little for the one I didn’t write yesterday. Besides the fact that I didn’t get one from you yesterday I just couldn’t get myself in a mood to write anyone. I went to a show Saturday night and Sunday PM and that’s absolutely all I did except lay around and rest. The package was from Gladys. She sent it, express. It came last Thursday but they wouldn’t deliver it. I had to go after it today. Was a nice box of national press stuff. I did do very well with packages. None of which I have sent ever with thanks back. This I’ll get around to it though. Well Ronnie, my little boy, I wonder how you are tonight and if you are going to remember your daddy this time when I get home next week. You’d better. Lots of love to you both Daddy. ...

20 Jun June 20, 1944

Posted at 16:32h in Letters

Camp Blanding, Florida. 6/20/44 Tues 8 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another day gone and that means another day nearer to going home. Its been very hot here again today. We had a soft day. 8 hrs of review classwork during which time we mostly slept or told jokes or just did nothing. Tomorrow isn't going to be quite so easy -- physical fitness day. We start off at 5:30 A.M. with our last 4 mile speed march. It carries us on in some manner or form until a compass course at 10 P.M. that nite. So tomorrow will be our last <? ressien..er> in this camp that you really have to work in the army. Just came back from Px where we witnessed a soldier collapsing from heat or something. I guess they will see plenty of that here from now on. Our CO told us today that we probably will know Sat. what and where and when. It looks like though,by this time next week, we will be on our way. Sorry I can't tell Eleanor any more definite than that but tell her not to worry because if she is still there I am capable of handling two women. Especially two who seem to be as weak as you two have sounded like you are lately. Glad you and Analee were able to get together - having dinner out once in a while always helps the morale. Must of certainly helped yours because there is considerable difference in the last two letters I received from you. As for Fred staying in the army after the war -- all I have to say he is nuts and without very much ambition. I received the $50 -- thanks -- will try take good care of it. Sounds like you are doing pretty well along the financial line. Just keep up the good work. Only don't carry it so far that it hurts. You know there are things more important than money. Thursday morning we are having a company farewell beer party here in company area. Beer and sandwiches. Still no women. I understand there is a regimental dance at recreational hall tonite -- with women -- we are allowed to go to but for some reason don't feel very interested. Some of the boys have gone though and here I lie writing letters. Oh yes I am lying out back of hut in a blanket trying to write and rest a little both at the same time. From the looks of my face I appears like I must have lost a little more weight during the past two weeks. Maybe I need a little more rest for my coming party or parties at home with my wife too. Well my dear, I have been postponing for so long writing to all those people who sent me packages that I am ashamed of myself. So think i'll cut you a little short tonite and see if I can't get off a card or two anyway. Maybe I am skiiing by with that. You know I am getting woefully <? down > lazy when it comes to doing things I am not made to do. So don't expect too much extra out of me when I get home. <? Aase> all I'm going to do is lay around and sleep and rest and rest and sleep. Bye now and give Ronnie a big kiss for me and save all the rest up for me because you are going to get plenty of opportunity to really put out yes all nite long -- day too -- if possible. You know two months is a hell of a long time and we are going to have to cram a lot of loving and everything else into those short ten days to last for a much longer time I'm afraid. With all my love to you both Daddy ...

22 Jun June 22, 1944

Posted at 16:54h in Letters

Camp Blanding Florida, 6/22/44, 10 P.m. Thursday. Dear Alice and Ronnie, The big day has come - tomorrow we graduate and Wednesday, June 28th I leave for home. I get 14 days altogether. Leave here sometime Wed. and hope to arrive in Chicago sometime late Thurs. although that’s purely guesswork on my part as I will take a troop train, at least part of the way home. We have to leave here on a troop train, but they didn’t tell us how far we go on it. May go only to Cincinnati, or maybe Pittsburgh. From there I go on my own. May go all the way to Chicago on troop train. All I know definitely is that I leave next Wed. I am one of the few leaving in first batch, why, no one knows. All we know is they say we all are leaving except a few class C men. I report to Army Mead, My. July 12th. From that date on, we don’t know a thing. However, we were told that we could either be shipped across from there or to some other camp in USA. All those going in the first batch are pre-Pearl Harbor Fathers. That may or may not mean something. Again, we don’t know. Anyhow, I am very glad the suspense is over, and I will be home with you again very soon even though it is only for a few days. well we had our party tonight - rather, we are having our party, it is still going pretty strong. I left because I had some things that had to be done, including writing this letter. I tried calling you, but no luck. Will try sometime early in the morning if I can manage to get up a little earlier. Don’t know how you’ll like being awakened at 4 a.m., but it will just give you an idea of what I have been doing a lot of the last few months. The party was or is a success, but still not as good as the one we had in <? broovac>. I only drank two beers and six cans colas this time. The gang are all in a very good mood, but all pretty stiff, sore, and very tired. We really had a hard day yesterday. Starting at 4 a.m. and ended at 10 p.m. And we were on the go physically all day. I am plenty tired <? yet> myself. We started out with a 300-yard run and four-mile speed march. And during day, did a bayonet and hand grenade course, guerrilla exercises, zig zag obstacle course, push-ups, compass course, and etc.. Today, thank God, we had eight hours of sleepy classes. Saturday noon, we are finished for good here. Well my dears, since I am pretty tired and since I hope to talk to you on the phone in next few hours, will close now and save up every thing for about one week from now. Certainly hope your fall hasn’t proved serious in any way and you are completely over your aches and pains. And what did the doctor say? Bye now and I love you both lots and lots. Daddy. ...

24 Jun June 24, 1944

Posted at 15:01h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 6-24-44 Sat. 8:30 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad becomes a Message Center Clerk graduate. Doctor’s report? More reference to Junior. Dear Alice and Ronnie, This starts what probably will be my last letter written to you from Camp Blanding. We finished the cycle at 11:30 this morning and it was a grand feeling. This afternoon we get our tickets home and now all we do is mark time until sometime Wednesday A.M. when I leave this dump for good, I hope. Most of the men had their shipping orders, then this morning they rescinded 33 of them. - All those who are under 19 yrs of age. Don’t know what is going to happen to those boys. Yesterday we graduated. It wasn’t too bad as graduation goes. The exercises were held in the theater we went to that nite when we got up and left. Two companies, about 400 men. The General was there a page 2 couple Colonels and numerous lesser officers, a band and the usual speeches. We received a small diploma saying we are now Message Center Clerks. That’s about all except it was hot as hell and a number of the men took very sick. Sick enough that they had to be taken to hospital. The reason and what was this illness is still a question. All but two are fully recovered now though. It is still hot. I lay here right now with the perspiration dripping. I have never seen such heat. Went down and looked up Les Hasker this afternoon. He is in a rifle company about one mile from here and seems to be getting along fine. Says he likes it. Some guys are certainly crazy. Rumor has it that we leave here Wed. A.M. at either 4 or 6 o’clock. It will be [a] day coach troop train all the way. Sounds like a nice ride, doesn’t it. Certainly hope we arrive page 3 in Chicago before Thurs nite for a number of reasons one being two nights sitting up will about kill me I think. After your lack of enthusiasm about me coming home last night I might almost be tempted to hop off somewhere on route. Just hope you were saving it all up for my arrival because you certainly weren’t putting out any over the phone. Or were you so stunned with hearing my voice again that you just couldn’t talk? Certainly glad the doctor’s report isn’t too unfavorable. I don’t get it about my coming home at this time being the wrong time. Or am I just <? duw> about such matters. I understood that Jr. could be started anytime. Any how that’s my belief and I am going to stick to it and keep trying page 4 for at least ten very short days. As for the income tax[,] you had better pay it. Take the money out of the Smith Savings and Loan. About the lot. It is the one I own with Ray Hines. But he has said for me to do as I pleased about it. So you can tell him[,] Brandts[,] that I will take $500 net for the lot. That means the buyer will have to pay enough over $500 to pay the commission, title expenses and two years unpaid taxes. Now if he is willing to pay that much and can’t wait until I get home[,] take this part of the letter and the sales contract up to Mr. Smith Sr or Miss Smith and let them handle it for you. Don’t try to do it yourself. Someday, after I teach you all about the real estate business, you can do those things yourself, but not this time. As for the title papers[,] they have been lost. But you remember I checked the title that time we were downtown. It is in my name and he can get all the information he needs from the records downtown. Let him earn his commission and go down and get it. page 5 Well my dears, very shortly, after you receive this, you will also get a chance to receive me; providing of course nothing goes wrong. I have my fingers crossed all the way. I hope by this time you have fully recovered from all your aches and pains and you and Ronnie will be just a little bit glad to see me Thursday. And now until then - I love you both and can hardly wait, Daddy ...

27 Jun June 27, 1944

Posted at 15:03h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 6-27-44 5:15 P.M. Mon. Noteworthy: Dad gets his shipping orders: he is to depart Ft. Blanding Thursday June 28th and report to Ft. Meade July 18th. Thus he gets about 3 weeks "off". Dear Alice and Ronnie, While waiting for chow will dash off what will absolutely be my last letter from here. Today has been one of hide and seek - we doing the hiding - cadre the seeking - All we’ve done is manufactured detail work. The biggest one so far being tearing up our board side walks and making new ones out of crushed stone. Oh yes, we crushed the stone too. I was pretty successful this morning in hiding but didn’t fare so well this afternoon. <? Hewrow>, we all managed to do plenty of gold-bricking and got through the day. It has been so damn hot that page 2 I don’t think they dared working us very hard even if they had wanted to. After chow, 5:45 P.M. Boy, can you imagine - first time we’ve had any beef here for at least 10 weeks. It was darn good too - Swiss steak. We turned in some more equipment today and tomorrow we’ll finish. Our rifle is about all we have left. So far we have no new information as to when we leave Wednesday. [See P.S. below] Everyone says it will be around 6 A.M. And if it is I should arrive in Chicago sometime Thurs. P.M. Sorry but that’s the best I am able to tell you. Well, will save everything for Thursday. A gag making the rounds here is that most of the men have written their wives telling them to get a good look at the floor because when they get home all they are going to see is the ceiling. Take heed, my dear. Love to you both, Daddy P.S. 6:30 P.M. We have just received our shipping orders. I leave here 7 A.M. Wed. June 28. I report to Ft. Meade at noon July 18th. So you can definitely expect me Thurs. P.M. some time. GWS ...

13 Jul July 13, 1944

Posted at 15:05h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 7-13-44 8:45 P.M. Thursday Noteworthy: Dad arrives at Ft. Meade in preparation for overseas. Dear Alice and Ronnie, As you see, I am here. We arrived at 11:30 this morning after another tough ride on a dirty day coach. We checked in, had lunch, had a short orientation lecture. brief physical and was assigned to our barracks had dinner went to PX and tried to call Forest without any success and here I am writing to you. After that a bath and bed, that’s the works. Now I can quit, can’t I? By the way the pen is writing fine. I think I made a good trade. The train ride was without much interest although I did ride part of the way with some gal coming to Washington to meet page 2 her husband. However after she met a 1st Lt. I didn’t rate anymore even though she had been assigned the seat next to me. Guess it pays to be an officer. Either that or a bitter talker - which I ain’t as you well know. This camp seems very nice compared to Blanding and the atmosphere is entirely different. Everything is businesslike and they really get things done. I have been placed in this regiment with 140 men all in one barracks room. We are bunched up pretty close but the building is large and new and very much like a large hotel 3 stories high and 5 or 6 wings. We are in the South wing on second floor. They have mess halls, day rooms, and practically everything right here in the building. It is built Southern style of red brick. page 3 Well, I am going on sick call in the morning by request. We had to stip at our examination this afternoon and Dr. caught my trouble right away. He gave me a slip and said to report for sick call in the morning. So now you know I have at least gone this time. If they don’t do anything about it I am a goner because they told us today that we would definitely be on a boat before the beginning of August. I am going to have to send all my excess clothing home including new jockey shorts and towels, etc. Although may wait a few days to see what happens at sick call. They did page 4 say though that we could be shipped anytime with 24 hrs notice so I can’t wait too long to send it as we won’t get a chance after we are told we are leaving. If I am still here I am going to try and go into Washington to see Forest Sat. P.M. I guess we will get passes. We were not allowed off [the] train in Washington this A.M. Well my dears I have to bathe and shave before 9:45 and it’s now 9:15 so keep your fingers crossed and will let you know tomorrow how I came out. There are six of us fellows in this room with me. It’s pretty good having a few familiar faces about. However, we don’t know if we are in Message Center or what. Bye for now and I love you both and miss you lots, Daddy . ...

14 Jul July 14, 1944

Posted at 15:09h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 7-14-44 8:15 P.M. Friday Noteworthy: Pages of this letter are missing. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another day is gone, and that’s just one day closer to something. Things are happening fast though. Two men from our Reg. is [are] shipping out already tomorrow morning, and there are 12 more on call. That is pretty fast work for those boys I would say. No one knows where they are going - they don’t themselves. I spent the day chasing around. Went on sick call this morning. After waiting around most of the morning finally saw the Dr. He sent me to the dermatology clinic this afternoon. That took practically the [whole] afternoon. I saw a Capt. at the dermatology clinic. I showed him the letter page 2 I had from Chicago U. and he had me strip and ask a number of questions finally ending up by saying that he would recommend that I be given a non-combat classification, which of course would mean, if accepted, that I would not be shipped across. However he said he was only a Capt. and had very little to say around here. And since all men were definitely sent here to be shipped across it wouldn’t be easy to get my name canceled and not to count on it. He did say that I had no business going over and for that matter intimated that I had no business being in the army. I heartily agreed with him. He was very nice and I know he did make out a requisition that I be taken off shipping orders. Whether he ...

16 Jul July 16, 1944

Posted at 17:27h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler July 16, 1944 9 P.M. Sun. [Army camp near Washington, D.C.] Dear Alice and Ronnie, Here I am back in camp none the worse for wear except being a little tired. Didn’t do much this afternoon. Went up in [the] Washington Monument and spent a little time in [the] Smithsonian Institute, and walked around [the] Capitol Building. Oh yes, walked all over Washington - it is all very interesting but can’t see much in one half day. Of course I realize I could have gotten up earlier this morning but that bed really felt good and was much more important at the time. There is much shipping news and speculation around here tonight. About 15 men went out a few minutes ago and there are about a dozen more scheduled to leave any time, where no one knows. So page 2 far I am still here and there is nothing new in my status. I rode back to camp with a 1st lt. [first lieutenant] from 8th Reg. [Regiment] and he told me there was a rumor around that a lot of the men in 8th Reg. were going to be sent to Fort Ord, California, as camp personnel. That might not be so bad. Of course that is just one of many rumors and even if true wouldn’t mean that I would be one of those men. Certainly was nice calling home last night. I called from Hotel Washington and only waited about two minutes. However, I waited a half hour to call Forrest from camp here the other nite. I have made arrangements to go to Alexandria next week end (that’s Forrest’s home) provided of course I am still here and can get out of camp. You see there is a lot of ifs and ands connected to my life right now. Well my dears that’s about all the news for now. Maybe tomorrow will be something else again - besides I should get at least one letter tomorrow that would be news. With Love, Daddy. page 3 [Editor’s note: it is clear that this page does not follow from the former. Evidently a second letter was inserted in the envelope with this one and its first page was lost.] sent it in is something else again. Anyhow, that’s that and it is now in the lap of the Gods. So guess you will have to keep your fingers crossed a bit longer. In fact I have no idea when I will learn anything. I got back from sick call this morning about eleven - a few minutes later who should walk in but Forrest. He had a day off and had come to camp in the chance of finding me. Had quite a time, but did find me. He went with me this afternoon and tonight we had dinner in the Service club. He left a few minutes ago. I plan on meeting him in Washington tomorrow if I can get a pass. page 4 He looks very good and doesn’t seem to mind the Navy very much. However, I think a lot of it is because living conditions at home are none too good. His wife has her sister and niece plus their four children living with her all in a four-room house. How - I don’t know. Plus the fact that the Navy has been none too hard on him and he says he really has it soft now. He thought we were living under pretty tough conditions compared to his. I told him he should have been at Camp Blanding as this place is <? weird> in a number of ways than that place was. A very important one being the officers - both com. and non-com.[,] they are almost human here. Well Ronnie, my boy, how are your eating habits? Improving, I hope and have you and Mommy missed Daddy any yet? If and when I get any important news I will try to call you. It will probably be in the evening - So don’t stray too far from home the next week or so - In the meantime I love you both and how is Junior? Love[,] Daddy ...

16 Aug August 16, 1944

Posted at 18:51h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler August 16, 1944 Wed. 12:00 Noon Noteworthy: Mom complains of 100 degree weather. More talk about "Junior." Dad takes up smoking. Hello, honey, Just received two letters written Aug. 9th and 10th, that’s pretty good time, isn’t it? Just six days. The others took 9 or 10 days. Ronnie is sitting here next to me at the kitchen table eating his lunch of fresh tomatoes and chicken noodle soup and cake. He’s just like his daddy about tomatoes. We sure have a crop of them, too. I picked a dozen today, all measuring from 4 to 5 inches across. I still think I’m pretty good farmette. Mrs. Carlson (across the alley) said her tomatoes this year were like peanuts and not worth picking, so that makes me doubly proud of ours. page 2 I had a run in with our mailman today. The regular sourpuss is back from his vacation. I heard a commotion, Judy barking etc. and I went to the door and he was kicking her and throwing rocks at her. Did I tell him! I told him he had no right to touch or harm our dog as long as she’s in our property. I think I’m right too. The reason she hates him so is that he kicked her to begin with. I realize of course, that Judy has no business barking like she does, but then again she is a watchdog, and figures outsiders have no business here. 12:45 P.M. Well, Ronnie finished his lunch and is already in bed, so you see we’re progressing as far as page 3 his meals are concerned. Of course the cooler weather has something to do with it. It is a mere 82 degrees today, which is cool in comparison to 100 degrees. I think I will cut out my fall suit today. You remember that wool material Vy sent me in March? I think I’ll use the brown and white check for a tailored suit. I hope it turns out okay, as it will be the only Fall outfit I can afford at present. I haven’t made anything for myself for so long, maybe I’ve forgotten how it’s done. I haven’t heard a thing from Vy since she went to California. Guess she can’t be bothered with an old married woman. Wonder if she ever made up with the Sergeant? I got a letter yesterday from Betty, and she hasn’t been able page 4 to sleep at all in this hot weather. I hope if I ever get that way it will be in cool weather. Did you ever hear if Josephine and Claude had their new baby? I’ll have to write and ask Gladys if she’s heard anything, yet. It must be way past due by now. If Betty’s mother can’t get off to take care of Patsy while she’s in the hospital, I think I’ll go down for a week. Wonder how I would be at caring for two children. You asked in your letter about about junior? Well, no luck this time, so you’d better hurry home and try again, as we didn’t have much time last time. So you’re taking up smoking, now. Doubt if that will do your skin any good. Well, if it’ll make page 5 you feel better, I guess it can’t be as bad as cigarettes, anyway. I’ll try to get that tobacco pouch, but doubt if I can get one with a zipper. Also doubt if I can get enough Baby Ruth bars to send. I’ll try tho, and if I can’t get them I’ll send something else. I’ll try to get these things this afternoon, if possible. I hope you get some mail pretty soon, as I’ve been writing every day. well, bye, for now and maybe I can add some more later. All our love, Always mom and Ronnie P.S. The Dear Alice P. and Ronnie, does it mean something? Is it the first letter of the city you’re close to, or something? I’ll watch for any further hints. O.K.? (over) page 6 9:50 P.M. Darling, I did a little shopping for things you requested today. Hope you’ll like the things I bought, as it will probably have to be your anniversary gift, unless you send a request for something else. You see I can’t send anything over 8 oz. without a request from you. With a request I can send 5 lbs, but the length of the Pkg. plus the girth of the pkg. can’t exceed 36". For example if pkg. is 10 inches long[,] the girth can only be a total of 26 inches etc. Please send requests and I’ll try to get whatever you want. I have to show your letter to [the] postal clerk and he stamps [the] letter so it can’t be used again. Bye, Darling, Love, Mom ...

17 Aug August 17, 1944

Posted at 20:55h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler August 17, 1944, Thursday, 10:30 p.m. Darling, I got the first two letters - P.L. Could it be Plymouth? If so, just say the answer to your question is yes, and I’ll know. Just received your letter of August 11th today, which still keeps up the 6 day record. You mentioned some V-mail in today’s letter. As yet, I have received no V-mail from you. Should I have received some by now? I mailed your first request package today. It weighed 5 1/4 lbs, tho, so I had to unwrap it at the post office and take out one-quarter pound to make it an even five pounds. When they say five-pound limit, they mean it. I asked him how long it would take to get there, and he said from 6 wks. to 3 months. Eleanor says her page 2. brother in Stockholm, Eng. gets her packages in 2 weeks, so maybe you’ll get them that quickly, too. I sent you a "candy letter" last week, so don’t confuse this small pkg of candy with the 5 lb pkg I mailed today. I managed to get that zipper tobacco pouch you asked for at People’s store after trying everywhere else. They had them all over, but without zippers. I also sent you the photograph of us that we had taken on your furlough. I’m sending you the 5X7 size in folder, but if you have no place to keep it without ruining it, I’d like to have you return it, and I will have it billfold-sized picture made for you so you can carry it with you. Let me know at once, Will page 3. you, honey. I had just called Roseland News this morning about your new address. It was quite a coincidence that you mentioned it in your letter, which I received this afternoon. I suppose you have heard of the invasion of Southern France. From what I hear over the air, we’ve been hearing over-optimistic news about it, as it’s not going as well as they at first reported. I’m sending an invasion map of Southern France’s coastal area. Hope it will interest you. I’m terribly sorry to hear you’re not getting any mail. It must be terribly discouraging. I’ve been writing every day, but I suppose you will never get some of them. Certainly hope you will at least get most of page 4. them. You mentioned a dance. Did you have a nice time? Be careful of that moonglo. They say it does things to people, especially in combination with beer and cider. By the way, I hope you don’t overdo this drinking business as the fact that you didn’t drink or smoke were some of the qualities I admired so very much. By the way, when you do get that rating, or are they canceled for the duration, as they are in the Navy? It is now 5 weeks since you left and the only evening I’ve been out was at Paw Paw Lake last Saturday. I haven’t even seen a show in 5 wks. Imagine? Can’t seem to be able to get anyone to care for Ronnie anymore. Ronnie is still a honey and is growing up fast. Bye, sweetheart and all my love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

22 Aug August 22, 1944

Posted at 23:15h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler August 22nd, 1944 Tuesday, 10:25 P.M. Hello, honey, Doggone, if you don’t get my letters pretty soon, I’m going to stop writing and give it up as a bad job, or did I already say that once before? Instead of ironing today, I canned four more pints of tomato juice - that makes nine jars so far. I also canned seven jars of peaches. I’m just getting too domesticated for words. My friends wouldn’t even know me. I can even can some plums and pears if the ration board decides to send me coupons for some canning sugars. I hope you like tomato juice as it’ll probably still be here when you come back. I’m page 2 harvesting 2 to 3 dozen daily out of my garden, and rather than waste them I thought I might as well can the juice. I don’t care for canned tomatoes, but do like the juice for an appetizer once in a while. Mrs. Al Evers called me today. I had been thinking of calling her too, but didn’t get around to it. She said Al had written to you at Blanding, but he hadn’t received a reply, so had asked her to call to get your new address for him. She also invited Ronnie and I for dinner next Wednesday, Aug. 30th. Did you ever meet her? She’s a very pretty girl, and is working at Sherwin-Williams office, I think. They have a boy younger than Ronnie. Her sister moved in with her and takes care of the boy. They live at 10435 Prairie. Do you know where page 3 that is? About 1:00 o’clock tonight, while Eleanor was playing "piggyback" with Ronnie, who should walk in but Vida, Ben and Edamae Campbell. They said they hadn’t seen the Hayes since we were there for dinner. I also heard some more history of World War I from Ben. Vida also took your APO address and said she would drop you a line soon. They left about 10:00 o’clock, and then Eleanor and I had some cake and milk. I’ve been having pains in my tummy the last couple days, again, altho I can’t figure why, as I’ve cut out all fresh fruits and vegetables, altho I have been eating fried foods, which I shouldn’t. For example, tonight page 4 we had hamburger on buns, french fried potatoes and tomatoes, and peach cake and coffee. Also raw onions and pickles on the hamburgers. It was good even if indigestible. Ronnie really got a man-sized roughing up with Ben as a playmate tonight and he just laughed and laughed. Ronnie needs his Daddy to go thru a little rough stuff with him every night, so don’t forget to hurry home as soon as this war is won, or Ronnie will be a "sissy" with so many women around. And Mommy needs to be told to "get going" once in a while, too. (What am I saying?) Bye Darling, and behave, Love Mommy and Ronnie ...

25 Aug August 25, 1944

Posted at 15:03h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler August 25th, 1944 Friday, 11:00 P.M. My Darling, Well I’m here in Rockford now after a hectic trip. The first 30 miles they were repairing the roads in about 50 different places, so that there was "one-way traffic only." In other words half the time you had to wait until the car coming towards you came through before you could drive on. This held me up, but on top of it about 20 miles before I got to Sycamore there was a detour on Rt. #64, so that I had to go around through DeKalb and then back to Rt. #64 again. I still made it in about three hrs. 15 minutes, but it was sort of nerve-wracking. Ronnie slept most of the way with his head on a pillow propped against me and was pretty comfortable, too. I got in Rockford about 4:15 this afternoon and we had supper about 6:00. (Steak, too - mmm!) Then I told Chuck and Betty they could go to a show if they wished and I’d take care of Patsy. They went, and Muriel’s sister came over and page 2 we spent the evening talking. Muriel is in Appleton, Wis. where she has an apartment and is making novelties for several stores there. Guess she’s doing all-right, too, from what I hear. I brought Judy along, too, and it seems she doesn’t have an appetite away from home, as she ate very little of her supper tonight. Maybe she’s homesick. Ronnie ate very well, and so did I! I just had a big dish of ice-cream, too, that just about filled me up. Well, everyone’s gone to bed, but me, so guess I’ll run along now and get a bit of sleep, too. Goodnite, honey, and I’ll pray again that you won’t be sent to the battlefront. I want you right in our little home with us, and not away where we can’t see you, and afraid every minute that you’ll get hurt. I hope you’re gaining some of the weight I’m losing. I try to eat, but still lose. Here’s hoping you will be with us for Christmas. All our love, always. Mom and Ronnie ...

31 Aug August 31, 1944

Posted at 19:27h in Letters

letter 1. From: A. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler, August 30th, 1944, Wednesday, 1.45 p.m. Darling, Spent a rather uneventful day today doing practically nothing. Well, that is almost nothing. Of course, I cleaned up a bit around the house and washed the bathroom and kitchen floors. But I was so tired all day. Must be because I got up at 5.30 yesterday to drive into Chicago and along with continued rain since last Saturday, I still feel tired. I made Eleanor’s dinner. Then went over to Mrs. Evans for Ronnie’s and my dinner. She said, Al had written to you at Blanding, but had received no answer as yet. So he will write again as soon as he gets the address, I gave Mrs. Evans, (or Frances, which is her first name). They have a five room brick home at 10435 Prairie. It’s Page two. small but furnished and decorated beautifully. They have all mahogany furniture in Duncan Phyllis style. The living room and dining room are in pale pink and the bedroom and nursery are papered in a dainty floral. She has very good taste throughout. I guess you’ve never met her, have you? She looks very much like Ruth Vrooman, (Eggy’s wife), if you remember what she looks like. Only Francis is probably a few years older. Their boy Donald is nineteen months old and a little darling with big brown eyes. We had a nice dinner consisting of pork chops, fresh green peas, buttered carrots, mashed potatoes, gravy, homemade cake, and orange and vanilla ice cream. It was all very good. She is working in the office of Sherwin Williams and her Page three. older sister keeps house for her and takes care of Donald. Her sister must be about 45 and is very nice. I hear over the air that the Germans are short of guns, ammunition, guns and transports, and tanks. He said they might struggle through until spring, but he doubted that they would. I hear the Romanian Council has resigned, also that Bulgaria may sign a armistice with the Allies by tomorrow. I received the photos of you and Forrest and the one of you alone today. They stated when they sent the proofs that the photos would be returned and so on. On the photos I received the same marks on your face and hands caused by your dermatitis appear on the finished photo. Otherwise it looks very nice. Only why did you wear GI glasses on the Page four. picture? They’re such a heavy glass that your eyes aren’t very distinct. I’m glad I have it, though, so Ronnie and I can kiss it goodnight before we go to bed. Temporarily I put it in my frame, (the big photo of me that was on the mantle), but hope to get another frame for it soon. This weekend will be Labor Day, which means two lonesome days for me, as Eleanor will be going home. I’ve been wondering whether to call Gladys or not. Don’t suppose she’d come as she was here last, but I don’t feel like going out there either. Well, I’ll close now as I’m so sleepy and have to wash curtains tomorrow, and oh, I dread it. I’m numbering my letters from now on so you can check and see how many you receive. This is number one, as I’ve marked on the first page in a circle. We miss you and love you, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. Oralee has sold all her furniture and given up her apartment, and is staying with Fred’s mother until September 12th when she’s going to Washington. ...

10 Sep September 10, 1944

Posted at 20:47h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Sept. 10, 1944 Sunday 6:30 P.M. My darling, Just writing to tell you I love you more every day, or is that because I’m lonesome for you? Could be, but the result is the same, so it doesn’t make much difference, does it? The Hayes were just here and spoiled an otherwise perfect day. They stayed from 4:00 until 6:00, so altho I planned on eating much earlier, we haven’t eaten yet. My dinner is just about finished [cooking] now, so we’ll take time off to eat now if you will excuse us. 9:00 P.M. Well dinner eaten, and Ronnie and I went for a walk, and now he’s tucked in bed safe and sound. We had Swiss steak, carrots, and potatoes, page 2 tomatoes, lettuce, milk and cake. Sound O.K. to you? I s’pose your tongue’s hanging out a mile every time I mention a meal, as from what I hear, you’re not thrilled about the army chow, as yet. I guess you’d even appreciate my bride-like efforts at cooking. Or am I wrong? I feel terribly about not writing last night, I had all I could do to get thru the evening with Oralee. Yes, you’ve guessed it, it was my "blue day". Haven’t felt any too good all day [today] either, so certainly enjoyed being home alone, that is I would have been if the Hayes hadn’t come around. (This lousy pen I bought isn’t worth the plastic it’s composed of. I’m going back to your old pen, altho every time I use it I get ink on my clothes.) page 3 Oralee and I started out at 5:30 last night and went to the Palace to see [the show] "Bride by Mistake", with Laraine Day and Alan Marshall and a Sherlock Holmes picture with Basil Rathbone. They were pretty good pictures. After that it was about 9:30 and we hadn’t had our dinner yet, so we went to "Old Heidelberg" to eat, but it was too crowded, so we finally went to the "Berghoff" to eat. Oralee had corned beef and I had fried chicken with coleslaw, French fried potatoes and peas, and a stein of Berghoff beer. The bill for both of us was only $2.04 so that was cheap enough. Of course everything I ate was against my diet, but it’s hard to follow a diet in a restaurant. My aches and pains today wouldn’t be any better regardless of what I’d eaten. Guess Oralee isn’t leaving until Sept. 18th, and will spend page 4 two weeks in Iowa with her Dad and Aunt before going on to Ft Louis, so she won’t get there until first week in October. I told Oralee you’d mentioned our coming to see her and she said we’re certainly welcome, and they’ll be glad to see us. Oralee looked very nice last night in a beige gabardine tailored suit and light green blouse. I wore the suit I just made which is a tiny brown and white check with a brown blouse, green hat, green shoes, and alligator purse. Are you interested in Ladies fashions? Guess not. I must have looked presentable anyway, because we were sitting next to two young Navy lieutenants and the one kept looking over and smiling. Of course, I just turned my head and ignored him. Maybe should have encouraged him, page 5 as he was probably away from home and lonesome, and it would have been "patriotic" for us to donate our time to them for the evening. You don’t think so? Well, there you go again. Say, put away that "shooting iron," I was only fooling. As long as you behave, I’m sure I can. We got home before midnite, so we behaved pretty well, don’t you think? Besides, I was so sleepy I could hardly keep my eyes open. One reason for this was that Friday nite at 12:00 P.M. (or is it A.M.?) I was really ready for bed and I let Judy out for her stroll. She ran away and didn’t come back until 2:30 A.M. Was I ever mad. I had to sit up all that time waiting for her, when I was so sleepy I couldn’t see straight. And on page 6 Saturday morning I got up at 7:30, so I could bake some cookies to put in another box for you. I also had to mail this 5 lb box and buy groceries and clean house, so by 5:30 I was so tired I didn’t even want to go downtown, but as Oralee expected me I went anyway. Today I packed another 5 lb box for you and also included your flashlight and some more cookies and a few pieces of butterscotch candy that I made today with my own little hands. To date, (that is after I mail this box tomorrow) I will have sent you 4 five pound request boxes and 2 eight-ounce pkgs. Please let me know as soon as you receive any of them and if they got there page 7 in good shape or not. I’m so anxious to know. I’m all out of request letters now, so if you want any more pkgs, keep the requests coming. I can’t always manage to send something, even if it’s only cookies. Do you want me to send any socks or anything? Razor blades? Underwear? Goodnite, honey, it’s 10:00 o’clock and I feel awful, so I’m going straight to bed. The Hayes mentioned getting a letter from you yesterday. I haven’t received any mail since Monday. Maybe tomorrow I’ll get lots of ’em - I hope! Sweet dreams, darling, and hope I can dream of you all night tonite. All my love is for you, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. I gave up numbering my letters. as I write every day, have skipped only about three times since you left. ...

17 Sep September 17, 1944

Posted at 00:01h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler September 17, 1944 Sunday, 10:45 P.M. Dearest, Sometimes it seems so long ago since I’ve seen you, that I wonder whether it’s all a dream! Ever feel that way? I wonder whether I did get married, and if I do have a husband, far away, and if I have, if he still loves me, or ever did. Oh gosh, I’m getting way off the beam, don’t you think? No fooling tho, the time we had was so short, and come to think of it, you’ve been away longer than we were together. Sometimes I feel that the only tangible thing I have to show for my dream is Ronnie. Sometimes I wake up in the page 2 middle of the night, and can’t figure out where I am, as I’ve been dreaming that I was single and back home again with my folks, and then I look over at Ronnie and realize I’ve been dreaming. Guess this doesn’t make sense to you, does it? I only hope that things will make sense when we’re together again, as I keep wondering whether either one of us will change because of this separation. I guess I’m getting the blues because I haven’t had a letter for a few days. I sure need letters to keep up my morale, so don’t get the idea that you shouldn’t take time to page 3 write every day you possibly can. There’s always the possibility that a few get lost, so unless you write every day, I’ll get mail very seldom. I have so few outside activities and know such a few people here that unless I get letters to perk up my spirits, I can’t keep going. The Hayes and Joan were here for dinner today. Ernest left right after dinner as he had to go to a church meeting. Joan left to play with some of her friends, so that left Edith and I by ourselves for the rest of the afternoon until 7:00 o’clock when she went page 4 home, too. We had a pretty nice dinner I thought and I guess they thought so too. I had steak (nice and tender - broiled); buttered parsley potatoes; green beans and carrots (buttered); lettuce, tomato and celery salad; radishes, pickles and celery as appetizers; and fudge cake and ice cream and tea and coffee. Does it sound O.K.? I hope this pays off the couple times I ate over there, anyway. I s’pose I shouldn’t feel that way, but I can’t help it. Eleanor didn’t come back from Michigan this afternoon, so I imagine she’s having her tonsil operation tomorrow. This means I’ll be alone page 5 this week, again. I didn’t dare tell Edith that she wasn’t coming back this week, as she seems to think she should invite me over there when Eleanor isn’t here to keep me company. As it is, I don’t mind eating alone, as long as Ronnie is with me. He’s a lot more company now, as he jabbers away (all thru the meal) and we laugh and have a lot of fun by ourselves. It’s later in the evening after he’s in bed that I get lonesome, but I would anyway as Eleanor is on the night shift this month. I may ask Mrs. Evers over for dinner sometime this week, as I was page 6 there more than two weeks ago now, and should return the invitation. I’m spending some of our hard-earned money to get a permanent. I haven’t had one since April, so guess I deserve one. I haven’t spent anything on my hair at all as most of the time Eleanor sets it for me, or I do it myself. I can’t spend a dollar a week to have it fixed as I used to. It’s getting to the point now where it needs a curl again, so guess I’ll have to spend 5 bucks for a permanent. Do you mind? (Excuse me, I hear Ronnie whimpering in the page 7 bedroom.) I just went in and put him on the "toily", and he’s O.K. again. In fact, he didn’t even wake up. He had a pretty exciting day with the Hayes, Bobby, and a 3 yr old boy was visiting the Pages upstairs. He was put to bed from 12:30 to 2:00 this afternoon, but he didn’t sleep much I’m afraid, as the little boy kept running across the floor upstairs and guess Ronnie couldn’t see why he should sleep. Heard today that you once demonstrated aluminum? You never told me about that phase page 8 of your life. I guess that’s what hurts me, at times, as it seems everything I know about you, I hear from someone else. Don’t suppose I should feel that way, as I expect there are lots of things you don’t know about me either. Well, Darling, someday we’ll have a lifetime to get to know one another, so I’ll wait until then, patiently (or rather I should say impatiently). Well, honey, if I still love you as much as I think I do, and you love me as much as I hope you do, there really should be romance when Daddy comes home again and let’s hope we leave some evidence when we do. Love, Mommy and Ronnie ...

25 Sep September 25, 1944

Posted at 12:55h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Sept. 25, 1944 Monday, 5:30 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Waiting for chow so will get this started and will finish later. If this writing looks a little shaky it’s because I’m shivering from freezing to death - nearly. It turned cold here yesterday and I’m telling you it’s pretty miserable. We’ve been out all day and not doing much but sitting around consequently I got chilled clear through. We have no fire in the hut so here I sit shivering. After being kept in Sat. nite for hut inspection[,] which they never made[,] I got up Sunday and went to town with three of the boys from Blanding. We arrived there about 11:30. Went to a hotel in town that we found out served meals. They didn’t open until 1 P.M., and since we were very hungry we went to the Red Cross and had a very thin slice of roast beef, page 2 potatoes, beets, cabbage slaw, spinach, and some kind of apple cobbler that wasn’t sweetened. It was so lousy and so little of it that after we had finished we decided to go to the hotel for something to eat. So at 1 o’clock we were first in line and had dinner in the Crown Hotel, a third-rate hotel in the U.S. but here about the best in town. Anyhow we had real silverware, linen table cloth and a waitress to serve us. There was no choice we sat down and she brought us some good mushroom and beef soup. Then we had a thin slice of good roast lamb, potatoes and boiled cabbage served in dishes, coffee, and apple pie - again with very little sugar in the apples. It cost three shillings and six pence 3/6 or 70 cents in our money. The RC [Red Cross] dinner cost 25 cents so for 95 cents we had two dinners and were just page 3 comfortably filled. It was worth seventy cents to eat in a halfway decent place on a tablecloth with dishes and real silverware. After we had eaten we walked around for a while then went to the show. Saw Janet Gaynor in "A Star is Born." Very old, but pretty good. After the show [we] had some ham and chips (french fried potatoes) and tea, watched the jitterbugs dance a while and took a bus back to camp at 6:30 P.M. A very quiet day indeed. Received two letters yesterday neither one from you and none today. One of the letters was from Murray and the other one from Alfred Evers. He finished training Sept. 4th and was going back to Camp Grant. [He] Said his wife had visited him three weeks while in Georgia. He expects to go overseas, but doesn’t know when. Murray’s letter was very interesting, page 4 but due to the way I am receiving what few letters I do get here[,] [I] already know about most of the news he gave me. Nevertheless [I] was very glad to hear from him and you tell him [I] will try and answer at the first opportunity. His letter was mailed Aug. 26th. I’m supposed to get those pictures I had taken last week. Tonite [I] am going up to [the] Red Cross for them right after I eat. Of course will enclose one if I get them. 9 p.m. Just back from getting the pictures and listening to the news. The news has not been so good the last few days. [It] Seems the airborne invasion in Holland is running into trouble. Although with all the reinforcements we see going over every day since a week ago last Sun. I’m sure they will come out of it in time. The pictures are not too bad page 5 considering. Am sending you two. Thought I would send Norma, Dad, Gladys, and Claude one each. That takes care of all six of them. Haven’t heard from Gladys about where Dick is. Do you know? Also have you sent me those powders I asked about once before? I’m getting very low and with the chow we get now I have to take them quite often. You remember if there are none there Van Hermann’s Pharmacy[,] 110 So Michigan Ave has the prescription. It’s 8 or 9 years old but I’m sure they still have a record of it. If not Dr. John McNamara 7505 Stacey Island Ave can give it to you. Well, Ronnie, old boy how are you and Bobby getting along these days? [I] Suppose he is making a big football player out of you. [I] Hope you are all well and think of me once in a while. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

26 Sep September 26, 1944

Posted at 15:12h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Sept. 26, 1944 Tues. 6:15 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, I have just finished eating and since I got three letters from you tonight, guess I’ll get started on an answer now. These letters were dated September 1st, 2nd, and 6th and told me of receiving my cablegram. Also, the bawling out for having the wrong date, I still say it must be the 29th. But suppose you are right. You should know these letters were numbered 2, 3, and 5. Suppose when I receive letter number 1, I’ll know what the numbers mean until then, I’ll have to guess. Anyhow it was very nice hearing from you and learning things are alright even though it sounds like you did have rather a lonesome time of it over Labor Day. Can’t understand Gladys. You and she didn’t have a falling out over something, have you? As yet, I haven’t heard from her myself, so am ignorant of anything that may have happened. Haven’t received your anniversary card. page 2 Suppose it has been delayed somewhere along the line. As for the dinner, drinks and on from there - well I thought about it and will most certainly see that we make up for lost time next year - and sooner, too. Is Oralee really going to Washington. Hope she doesn’t just get out there and then Fred get moved. Did you get your five dollars you mentioned paying the taxes and insurance, how about the garage bill? I’m glad to know you are able to keep the bills paid even though it is a little hard going. I get twenty percent more pay here which means $60.00 instead of $50.00. From that I pay $7.10 ins. $22.00 allotment and $15.00 for bonds. Which leaves me $15.90. Not much and if I stay at this camp very much longer and continue to run around as much as I have been[,] will run out someday. However I have about $18.00 on hand and will get paid again Sat. Guess that will tide me over for a while longer. You mentioned your typewriter money[,] what[,] page 3 did you do sell it? And why? The peak hat you mentioned was borrowed for the occasion. Don’t forget to send me those (120) rolls of film. As many as you can get. Your number three letter mentioned what I am doing here in the way of training and what I am. You are right on all counts but nothing to worry about. At least not yet because I am still a long way from actual combat and still have to be assigned to a division. [I] Still have a chance to get in my line when and if I am ever assigned to a division. At least that is what they tell us. Personally I still don’t believe I’ll ever see combat unless things take a turn for the worse, which can happen, especially so after the rather discouraging news of the last few days. Certainly was sorry to hear about Sally and Ray’s friend "Dutch." They didn’t waste any time getting him into combat. He was originally trained as a rifle man I believe. But that does page 4 seem to make a difference as they are not kept here for further training. At least all the ones I know wasn’t [weren’t]. You mentioned a five pound box you sent me. I received one box about that large, it had the tobacco pouch and candy in it. The candy was very good, especially the rock candy and caramel nuts 10 PM.Just back from my nightly glass of milk and from watching the dance at the RedCross for a while. I also had some coffee and doughnuts with Rosen and hisgirlfriend. Yes I was alone. Rosen is the fellow Elinor (or somebody)thought was the only good looking guy in our hut. He is Jewish and married and has a little girl but guess he looks at things a little differently than I do. He says everything is strictly on the level but from the looks of that Irish gal he had I don’t know. Anyhow, I feel much better coming back here and finishing this page 5 letter tonite than staying at the dance and probably getting myself involved. For some reason I always keep thinking of a couple very nice people at 110th and Union ave that I know where I would rather keep thinking that I’m pretty nice guy and is doing what’s right. As for the conditions at this, my fourth camp since arriving in England, I can truthfully say that it is by far better than the other three camps in every respect, food, toilet facilities, lodging, etc. It’s about 75 miles east of my first camp. So Ronnie eats with pictures of pretty girls beside him, Boy, he doesn’t take that from me. I can eat with or without the pretty gals. At least I can over here. So you are going to nite school - or are you? As for the Glenn Ellen deal that’s page 6 entirely up to you. If you don’t think it would work, just forget about it[,] especially so if Elinor continues to stay with you. Well, my dear, I’m practically the only one still up and it’s about time for the lights to go out so had better sign off. Certainly was glad to here you got six letters from me at once. [I] Can’t imagine why my letters should come that way but that’s the way I get yours so guess the same trouble happens to us both. Bye for now my dears and give Ronnie a big hug and kiss for me. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

27 Sep September 27, 1944

Posted at 13:36h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Sept 27, 1944 Wed. 7 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, No letter today so nothing much to write about except the weather which is very disagreeable, and cold, and the food, which has been very bad up until tonite. The meal we have just finished eating was the best, and for the first time, for a long time, all we wanted. We had hot dogs, sauerkraut, potatoes, bread and real butter, and apricots and tea. I had six hot dogs, some of the fellows had as many as ten and twelve. You see we were hungry after eating nothing but beans for lunch and stewed apricots for breakfast it tasted pretty good. It’s been so darn cold here all day that I’ve been practically froze. [I] Certainly don’t know what I’ll do when winter does come. One thing you can send me page 2 that might help is a <? ...

30 Sep September 30, 1944

Posted at 13:29h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Sept 30, 1944 Sat. 8 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad reveals the pass schedule, complains of political games in G.I. voting, thinks he will be discharged in Spring 1945, learns Mom has money troubles, mentions woes of English money. Notice my new mailing address, GFRS REPL POOL APO 129i Dear Alice and Ronnie, I wasn’t going to write you tonight but things did not turn out as I had planned so here I am at the local Red Cross trying to listen to the radio and write you. You see I had planned on going to London but got a late start getting out of camp and couldn’t get transportation. So after waiting for a bus for two hours and then a train for a half hour[,] finally gave up in disgust when it began to rain and I learned that there would be nothing until 8:30 P.M. Besides, I wasn’t supposed to go anyway and when all of those obstacles confronted me[,] I decided to take the hint and wait for a pass. I was just a little afraid that they would have a Sat. night bed check anyhow this week for the first time since coming to this camp, because this last week the powers that be have made a few changes and the new faces are trying to make a good show or something. Anyhow here I am still in camp and still London no see. Oh well if I could just go home I wouldn’t give a damn if I never saw London. page 2 [I] Should be getting a weekend pass pretty soon now and then I can go and not be afraid of getting caught. They are darn stingy with their passes -- only get six to a platoon of about fourty men per week, you can see that doesn’t let very many of us do any legal playing around very often. Salisbury, the city I have visited a number of times illegally, has been declared off limits this week so [I] guess now I’ll have to stay closer to camp than I am exactly used to doing. Can’t figure out why they are so damn strict over here with giving a G.I. a little liberty. God knows we have little enough diversion as it is. When ever one has to lay around camp week after week he soon gets down in the dumps plenty I’m telling you. No letter again today. That’s four days in a row now and that’s the result of some more of the lousy page 3 way the army runs things over here. I realize the difficulties in transportation and all that that they must be having. But to us mail is important too. Of course winning the war is far more important and [I] would be glad to give up all my letters if I thought it would help to end the war sooner. Got paid today. Three pounds eighteen shillings and six pence. See if you can figure out how much I received. After you have given up turn this over and you will find out just what I got. It has taken me some time getting into this damn English money but [I] think I’ve finally gotten it and now it’s pretty tough for these tories to short change me anymore. It’s been done plenty let me tell you. You know how the average G.I. likes to flash his money and spend it, well the Limies like to take it from us just as page 4 well and many a dollar is dropped here and there because we don’t know, or didn’t anyhow, what’s what when it came to making change. There seems to be a considerable lull in the war over here at present and it looks to me like it’s very probable now that I’ll spend the entire winter somewhere in the E.T.O. (European Theater of Operations). Guess the Army is planning the same thing, as we are getting some more winter clothing this coming week. None too soon either as some of these last few days have been plenty cold when we have to stand or sit around out in it hours at a time. Back home I would think it normal October weather, but with the dampness and no heat it makes it quite different. Well my dears, since this letter won’t go out now until Monday - our officers do not censor mail on Sundays here. I think page 5 I’ll wait until sometime tomorrow to finish writing this and hope in the meantime I get a letter or two. Guess I’ll write to Gladys again and send her one of those pictures and ask her again what has happened to Dick. I’m having a hell of a time finding out. No one seems to want to tell me, including you. Still haven’t heard from Gladys or Claude since arriving here. I must have a lot of letters on the way someplace. So bye for now and I’ll be writing you some more tomorrow. Was going to say I’ll be seeing you tomorrow but guess that’s a little out of order just now. Give my little Ronnie a big hug and kiss for me and have him give you one for me too and I will be seeing you both someday, GWS Sun. 2 P.M. Received two letters and a card today. The card from Claude - had been mailed to page 6 Fort Meade, announcing their new son. That card had been around. One letter from Edward Hughes sending my application for [a] ballot back to me on some minor technicality. Now it’s too late to get it back I suppose, which is just what I had expected would happen and further increases my intense feeling for the Democrats. Of course you will say Illinois has a Republican governor but Edward Hughes and his bunch are still Democrats. The second letter was the one you had mailed Aug. 25th with Chamberlin’s card and the Times clipping. The clipping by the way is not worth mentioning seeing that it came from such a radical New Deal paper as the Times. Can’t understand why Mr. Chamberlin hasn’t received my letter as I wrote him shortly after arriving here. I will write him again and let him know that I hope to be there early next spring to take over. Suppose he is getting anxious. Certainly wish I knew a little more about how things really stand out there. page 7 It has turned very cold here today so now I am doubly glad I didn’t go to London last nite. However I spent the morning very unprofitably. Lost a pound playing poker and when one gets just under four pounds a month that’s a bit too much to lose in a couple three hours. However I am still slightly ahead of the game since leaving the States. Had some pretty good fried chicken today noon plus peas and carrots, G.I. mashed potatoes, lettuce and fruit cocktail, coffee and bread and butter. By far the best meal I’ve had since reaching England. This letter tells about your stomach trouble and you selling the typewriter. Didn’t know you were that bad off for money. Of course it sounded like you got a good price for it and guess you didn’t have much use for it anymore. As for your stomach, you had better watch that. You sure it isn’t something else - such as maybe Junior after all. Could be, I hope. ...

03 Oct October 3, 1944

Posted at 15:15h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Oct. 3, 1944 5 P.M. Tuesday. Noteworthy: Another fidelity flare up. Dear Alice and Ronnie: No letters today, none yesterday and if it weren’t for the old one I got Sunday it would be over a week now since I have heard from you. I didn’t write you last night as I went to bed right after [the] show and stayed there. I aquired another cold somewhere over the weekend and by last night I was just about ready to go to bed and stay there. With no letters as incentive to write and my cold the result was no letter for you. Felt a little better today and tonite but still have the sniffles. That reminds me there are a couple things you can send me if you get a chance. A large tube of Barbasol shaving cream, ipana toothpaste, some Bayer’s aspirin, something else but I can’t think of it at present. I believe when I wrote you Sunday I told you I was about a lb page 2 out playing poker and was going to quit and go to the show. Well found out I had already seen the show so came back and won back the lb I had lost plus a little more which made me very glad I didn’t go to the show. However I prefer going out and seeing the sights. It’s far more interesting. I wrote to Mr. Chamberlin and Gladys Sunday. Bawled Gladys out because she didn’t go in to see you Labor Day. Hope she didn’t take it too much to heart. Still haven’t heard from her or where Dick is. Do you know? Our training period ends this week. We’re all wondering what’s next. Looks like now we will just start over on another one. Naturally it’s purely guess work on my part. Who knows? Might even go to France. Not very fond of that idea now with winter coming on. It’s cold enough here. Understand it’s colder there. page 3 9 P.M. and two letters later. I didn’t go to mail call tonight. The fellow that usually gets them didn’t come back with any for me. So [I] guessed I was out of luck for the day. Then when I went to chow[,] Rogers handed me two. He had gotten them for me. These were dated Sept. 5th and 7th - which are my latest letters to date - still taking almost a month to get here and are coming very irregular[ly]. Anyhow, as always before, I was very glad to get them. I take it the Jostis and Holmes were over for dinner on Sat. night. And you were home alone on Sunday and Labor Day. Sorry to hear about Elinor’s trouble. Certainly hope she is over it by this time and back on the job. You also mentioned reading the letter pate 4 I wrote to Murray and of course your criticism of what I said about the British women, which I thought was entirely uncalled for. And if you believe that me dancing once with a couple WAAF’s for lack of anything else to do justifies you joining a USO club or something, why I guess I’m pretty long ways away to try and stop you. If it were just the dancing involved I would have nothing against it. But I know that that is always just a way to start. By starting one thing always leads to another and before one knows it he or she has gone farther than they had expected. I am seeing it happen over here every day. And I know that’s the way it starts back home too. page 5 Personally, that’s why I am not starting anything I won’t be able to or couldn’t stop. Now does that satisfy you and justify you having to spend so many nights home alone, or do you? Just remember my dear what I believe I told you once before, you knew my habits before I came over here and you also knew that I don’t change them very much or very often. I’m very glad to hear Ronnie is gettiing along so well and he still thinks and talks about his Daddy once in a while. No discredit to you my dear but you can’t realize how much I miss that little Dickens sometimes. It seems like ages since I was home last and leading a halfway normal life anyway. page 6 Maybe someday in the not too distant future we will be able to be together again and have a 100% normal condition to live in, that will really be something. The no-shampoo <? mommie> and no bath tonite <? mommie> got me. I’d say he is learning quite young. Of course the stalling for time is old stuff. He was good at that before I left. How’s your burned arm and your stomach trouble? [I] Suppose Jim Tosti really thinks he’s an <? inoaliot> now. My stomach is a little worse since leaving the States but still not as bad as it used to be. Certainly hope you have sent those powders by this time. As for the beer and cider I quit drinking that stuff a long time ago. As for the filters for the furnace, page 7 you can still use the furnace without getting new ones. You’ll get much greater efficiency with new filters. That’s all. I bought a coin bracelet from an Italian ex-PW tonite which I will send you some of these days soon. I bought it more as a souvenir rather than a bracelet. It is made of English sixpence coins and one shilling piece and cost me two cartons of cigarettes plus the coins. The cigarettes cost me ninety cents. They sell them for fifty cents a package or ten dollars for the two cartons. American cigarettes are really worth a lot of money here. Well my dears, time for bed. And I too wish I were there to help keep you warm these cold nites. In fact I wouldn’t mind having you here right now to help a little with keeping me warm. It feels ike just above freezing tonight. Lots of love, Daddy ...

05 Oct October 5, 1944

Posted at 20:50h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler October 5, 1944 Thursday, 11:30 P.M. Noteworthy: More talk about stepping out. Butter rationing. Hello, honey, Had a very nice surprise today! I got three nice letters all from my husband. Isn’t that something? Letters [are] dated Sept. 21st, 26th, and 27th. I was in the midst of the family washing when I got them, so I finished hanging my first batch of clothes, so that I could sit down and relax for a few minutes with your letters. I was especially glad to hear from you, as I was tired and the day started out rather dreary, as it had rained during the night. The sun came out finally, so I could hang my wash outside. Ronnie has a cold, so I’ve kept him in bed and on a liquid diet all day. His nose is runny and he coughs every once in a while. Annette Tosti had a cold when we were there, and Elinor has a cold, so I sort of thought he might get one. It’s nothing serious though, as he’s so good about staying in bed and has been drinking page 2 his fruit juices and eating chicken soup like a little man. He sat on the Davenport wrapped in a blanket, reading a book about California, after supper tonite. He’s so good about sitting quiet. Tomorrow he’ll be all over it, and I won’t be able to hold him down, I s’pose. I hate to worry you about his little illnesses, but also know that you want to share everything that goes on, so I don’t want to keep anything from you. Am I right about this? I hope so! I know if I were away, and wasn’t told about you or Ronnie being ill, I’d feel badly even though it was nothing serious. I feel that by keeping Ronnie in bed at the first sign of a cold, he’ll get over it in a hurry, where if I ignored it, it might turn into something serious. I know Mrs. Dixon lets Bobby run around when he’s sick and that’s why it always takes him a week or two to get well, while Ronnie, so far, has always gotten over page 3 his cold in a day or two. Fact is, I hope he’ll never have to be sick any longer than that, but that’s something one never knows for sure. So far he’s been pretty lucky, I’d say, and if it’s in my powers, I hope he stays healthy. Mrs. Dixon came over for a while tonight, and as I was ironing my kitchen curtains she had to sit and watch me. She said she should have stayed home, as she hadn’t done her dishes, or ironed. Wish I could let myself do that, maybe I’d get out of the house once in a while. It’s been raining every day this week, and after I finally did wash today, it clouded up and looked like it would rain again, but instead the sun came out and it’s been over 70 degrees all day, and that’s pretty warm for October. In one letter you mentioned you wanted 620 film and in the other 120. Wish you’d make up your mind which you want! page 4 You mentioned being out with Rosen and his girlfriend and that he’s married and has a child. If it’s on the level or not, I certainly can’t see it. I certainly wouldn’t feel right about going out with some fellow while you’re gone, even if it didn’t actually mean "overstepping" the bounds, and hope that you feel the same way. I hate to think of you dating some girl over there, and taking her out, even if you said it was "on the level," as he says. I know if I had any doubt in my mind as far as "other women" are concerned I certainly wouldn’t feel like devoting my time here in taking care of our home, and staying home every night, writing letters, etc. Marriage is a game of chance, anyway without people deliberately trying to make it a losing game by their own actions. Of course a lot of Jews use the alibi that they have to marry their own race and therefore seldom for love, and that’s why they step out. page 5 I imagine it is a temptation of course, when all these foreign girls fall all over our American boys. But then there are temptations at home for the wives too, if they look around for it. Personally, I just couldn’t enjoy myself going out with anyone else, as that would be "second best," and if I can’t have the best, I don’t want to go out at all as far as I’m concerned. I can’t wait until my best comes home. I waited a long time to get married and guess a few months more won’t get me down, as long as I know you’re waiting, too. You mention a wool scarf and sweater. If I can get them, I’ll send them as soon as possible, as I don’t want my honey to freeze. (Might never get him thawed out again.) That would be tragic! By the way, are you located in or near Salisbury? page 6 Mrs. Page gave me a bouquet of bittersweet this morning that they had picked while visiting his sister in Ottawa. I have it in a vase on the mantle, and it looks very nice next to your big photo. Did you ever get The Tribune? You didn’t say and I’ve often wondered about it. Is there any magazine you’d like me to subscribe to [and] be sent to you over there? Readers digest, the Post, Colliers, or what have you. We’re still eating oleo, as butter is now 20 points a pound instead of 16, and even then you can’t get it. I did get a 1/4 pound yesterday (first in a week) but I’m saving it for next Wednesday, when Francis Evers is coming for dinner. I haven’t heard from Gladys since they were here, so don’t know where Dick is located now. Will write more tomorrow, so bye now, and here’s a good night kiss. (Like it?) Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

05 Oct October 5, 1944

Posted at 13:31h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Oct. 5, 1944 Thurs. 4 P.M. Notice the changed address, and please use it. I will get my mail sooner, if you do. Dear Alice and Ronnie, While waiting for early chow so we can go out on a nite problem[,] will start this letter and hope I get it finished because if I don’t it means no letter for you again today. Didn’t write yesterday. Haven’t gotten any letters myself since Tuesday so guess we are even at that. I’m sure you must be writing more than what I receive but I’m certainly not getting them at the rate of one a day or every close to that number. Didn’t write you last nite because there was a free show in camp and I went. It was very long and lights were out when I got back. It was Cary Grant in "Destination Tokyo," and was very good. If you get a chance, see it. It will give you a good idea of what page 2 service men actually think about sometimes when we are so far away from home. Of course not getting any letters gave me no incentive to write - have the same problem tonite too but you see I write anyhow. It really is pretty hard sometimes when I don’t receive any knew [new] letters in between writing. If I were permitted to tell you what we do it would be much easier. I can tell you that lately the food has been much better and if this keeps up and I stay at this camp[,] which I don’t expect to do, I am going to be adding some weight in a big way. Weight 161 lbs now with my clothes on. Of course, I have a few more clothes on than usual. For instance right now I am sitting here in my bunk with regular summer underwear on, heavy woolen underwear[,] page 3 wool A.D. shirt, field jacket, fatigue trousers, and blouse two pairs of heavy wool socks and leggings. Have worn the same all day and have nearly frozen. Am just now warming up as we have built a fire in this damn lousy small limy stove we have. One of the lucky boys in the hut, who received a letter today, just read an excerpt from it written by his wife. It said or she said "I am now going to bed and will do my best to dream about you. If I am successful you can pay me off when you get home." Now that was darn sweet of her, don’t you think? From the way news is coming now though looks like it might be sometime before any of us will get a chance to go home to get paid off. Definitely not by Christmas, unless things happen awfully damn fast now and that page 4 doesn’t seem likely this late in the fall. I’ve already paid off one bet and if it doesn’t end by Dec. 1st will have to pay another. And if it doesn’t end by Jan. 1st will have to pay another - a big one this time. I am beginning to wonder about them all. Oh well, there is no use worrying about it, and so long as I stay here it is about as good a place as I can expect in the ETO. (European Theater of Operations) Suppose you have sent me a number of packages plus all the things I have asked for but since those first three packages haven’t received any. Certainly hope by this time you have sent the 120 film and my powders. In order to keep on eating I have to take powder it seems, as army cooking is not like yours. You know how Fred Boige seasoned stuff. Well all army cooks have the same fault as far as my tastes go. page 5 [I] Believe in your last letter I received you asked me what I wanted for Christmas. Well naturally I will be plenty disappointed if I don’t receive something. On the other hand it is rather useless to send anything of value other than food as I never know when I am going to be compelled to throw away all the excess luggage I have. Even now I have accumulated so much stuff in the four weeks I have been in this camp that I am going to have to discard drastically a whole duffel bag full of stuff when we move. So whatever you send make it small. Will try not to disappoint you and Ronnie but so far have absolutely had no chance to buy either one of you anything. Now my little Ronnie tonite and I wonder what you are both doing right now. Sleeping I imagine? as it’s about 8 A.M. in Chicago. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

06 Oct October 6, 1944

Posted at 13:54h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Oct. 6, 1944 Friday 7 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad tries smoking a pipe. Dad describes the cold at the front. Dear Alice and Ronnie, One letter today, no. 7. That makes letters two, three, five, and seven I have received. Don’t know the reason for the numbered letters yet, but suppose someday I’ll get number one then I’ll know, counting my Aug. letters, find that there are ten short. Don’t know if you wrote every day or not, anyhow there are ten days out of the month missing. This letter today was written Sept 7th and mailed Sept 9th. Guess you forgot to mail that one. This letter is the one telling about Gallacini’s visit. Sounds like there is still money in real estate. Don’t think much of his idea for <? icmornic> security, but his <? scmornic> ideas never amount to much. I have written him. He should have received it a long time ago. As for that matter, I page 2 have never heard from him either. Hope you and Oralee got to go to the show and she got off O.K. Suppose she is in Washington by this time. Sounded like Elinor would be away for a while, how is she getting along now? Tell her she has my consolations and I wish I were there with her -- well at least I wish I were there. So Ronnie misses you too when you run off and leave him. [I] Suppose he does feel sort of left at home when you leave. I had big hopes of being home by Christmas or for his birthday at the latest[,] but from the looks of things right now don’t believe there is any possibility of either. In fact, now I am not even hazarding a guess as to when I’ll be home. [I] Just hope it will be early next year. That doesn’t sound very optimistic, I know, page 3 but things look none too optimistic right now for an early ending of things over here. These Germans are going to be a tough nut to crack before they throw in the sponge. Well we [censor] our [censor] training last night with a pretty tough [censor] that lasted until after 1 A.M. today. Then up again at 6 A.M.[,] just an hour later than usual for another day of Army life. They let up a little on us today but not enough for us to forget we are still in the Army. Now I am just waiting for the <? Wed.> <? movie> which doesn’t look any too good although no one knows anything yet. I get my pass to London next week providing we are still here. Suppose I’ll get moved just in time to get cheated out of it. My usual luck. London is the one place page 4 I really wanted to go to over here. I definitely gave up trying to smoke a pipe today and sold the pipe and tobacco pouch both. Every time I smoked the thing it made my stomach burn so I could hardly stand it. Got one pound ten shillings (three dollars) for the tobacco pouch, was that enough? Anyhow, I have money in my pocket and hope to have a better stomach as a result of my decision. Guess I’ll have to take up something else for diversion. I have written to the Hayes, Campbells, Jostes, Sterling, Gladly[s], Dad, Gallacini and others without receiving an answer. [I] wonder if it’s me or just that I don’t receive my mail. I know for a fact I don’t get very much. Certainly hope some of it catches up with me before I leave here. page 5 If it doesn’t I may never get it. Especially your packages. You talk about it being cold in Chicago, well kid, you never have been really cold until you have lived in this lousy, damp country. I’ve never worn so many clothes and yet be so cold in my life as I already have here. Well this is about all for one day. One thing I wish to remind you of is your promise to go to bed early. Staying up so darn late every night when there is no reason for it seems just a little ridiculous to me and I know it’s not the best for your health. You know you can’t very well afford to get sick as long as I’m so far away, can you? Enough’s enough. So bye for now and I miss you both very much and love you just as much. All my love, Daddy ...

08 Oct October 8, 1944

Posted at 17:23h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to Pvt George W. Shonkwiler October 8, 1944 Monday, 11:00 P.M. Darling. This won’t be a very long letter, as I’m trying to get to bed before midnight if possible. Ronnie and I have had quite an exciting day. This morning I put the finishing touches on the papering of the bedroom. It was all done except for a space beneath the windows. This done, I cleaned the house a bit, and we had lunch, after which Ronnie went to bed. The phone rang, and of course it was Edith who asked me over for dinner. The Dawsons from Florida were going to be there. I tried my best to talk myself out of it, but I couldn’t win, so I said we’d come. She also invited Eleanor, but she didn’t want to go, so I <? alibied> for her. Just after Edith called, Lil DeYoung page 2 called, and asked me to come over for some coffee, etc. She said Vita Campbell and Ben’s mother (from Oklahoma) would be there, too, so I accepted. I got there at 3:15 and left at 4:30, came home for a few minutes and left for the Hayes’. What a day! It’s the first day Ronnie’s been out since he got his cold last Thursday. He’s been well since Saturday, but it’s been so cold out lately (about 38 degrees) so I didn’t dare take him out right away. Vita said she had a letter from you about 2 weeks ago, and she wanted me to say "hello," and of course Mrs. DeYoung wanted to be remembered to you also. Ben’s mother certainly is active. She must be well over 70 years old, and spoke of building fences, chicken houses and papering walls and ceilings and whatnot. Mows her own (excuse me I was going to say she mows her yard, but I remember she said she had a man who did it for page 3 her every two weeks). She evidently lives all alone out in the country somewhere in Oklahoma. If she does all she said she’s marvelous, I’d say. Hope I’m that active at her age. She’s quite a talker. Ben must get it from her. All in all, it was a nice visit. I probably wouldn’t have gone, but as long as Vita was there, I went, because I do like her very much. She’s so straight-forward and unaffected and sweet. We had cake and coffee at 4:00, so I wasn’t very hungry when I had dinner at the Hayes’. She had a very nice dinner, too, consisting of: beef roast, gravy, sweet potatoes, green beans, rolls and jelly, fresh plum pie and coffee, and she had enough for a change. She would have when I wasn’t hungry. We had quite a lively discussion on politics, as Mr. Dawson is for Roosevelt and Ernest for Dewey. We also got into religion, too, of course. Mr. Dawson page 4 mentioning [mentioned] that he liked to play a game of poker once in a while, which he said, he s’posed Ernest and Edith’s religion wouldn’t approve of, etc.. It was quite interesting to hear Edith keep trying to change the subject when she thought they were on the losing end of an argument. I also heard a good story about Hitler going to his barber for a shave, and his barber said, "Why Herr Hitler you don’t mean you want me to shave off your mustache?" Hitler replied, "Yes, I’m going to America and I wouldn’t want to be mistaken for Dewey!" Just to be fair, I’ll tell one on the Democrats, too. This is it -- Churchill and Roosevelt were at the Golden Gate [Pearly Gate], and instead of waiting in line, walked right up to St. Peter and said, "Let us in." St. Peter just kept on writing in his book and waved them to the end of the line. page 5 They came back and said, "St. Peter, let us in!" He waved them to the end of the line again. Churchill turned to Roosevelt and said, "I’ll kick down the gate, Franklin, and you pay for it." I s’pose you’ll get a big kick out of that one, especially if you’re not in favor of Lend-Lease. By the way, I’m going to register tomorrow, so I can vote! Need I say more? You know the Corporal we met while at Dawson’s? Her daughter, Francis’s husband? He’s been discharged with the help of some Colonels, etc. (friends of his). He has a job (civilian) for the Navy, inspecting 29 different navy bases or something to that effect. Of course, he’s 40 yrs old. Mrs. Dawson also said that it was thru these same officer friends of his that he’d been taken from Blanding to work at this Selective Service Board where he was stationed when we were there. page 6 It’s pretty nice to have a <? drag>, isn’t it? Where is yours? He must be a lot older than Dawson’s daughter, as I didn’t think she looked anywhere near 40. Do you know how old she is? The Dawson’s wanted me to say "hello" to you and wish you luck, etc. I was surprised to hear Mr. Dawson was 66 yrs old. She’s 59. She said she was 22 when she married, so they must have been married 37 yrs. I guess Francis could be over 30, at that! They asked me if we waited long for a bus to St. Augustine. I told them over an hour and that we finally got a ride in with some soldiers. She said when they got home they had a houseful of company. She added quickly, that they were unexpected, but I’ll bet that’s why they didn’t ask us to stay and didn’t want to tell us at the time. Sure sounded fishy, but then they weren’t. page 7 indebted it to us in any way, so it was their privilege, I guess! After I came home tonight and had put Ronnie to bed, I went to the drugstore, [and] bought some wine-colored dye and dyed our bath mat and seat cover (they were getting so faded and I couldn’t afford a new set), and also dyed the rag rug I had in the bedroom the same color. My hands are also deep red color. I’ve tried everything to get it off, but just won’t come off. I’m a sight with these hands! Maybe when I shed skin, I’ll become natural color again. I haven’t had a letter from you since Oct. 3rd, so hope I’ll get one tonight, as I’m on edge and get nervous when I don’t hear from you. Must be love! If it is, I’ve got it bad! This long-distance love is the bunk, isn’t it, honey? Oh, well, someday, I hope we page 8 can make up for lost time, and we can laugh, love, argue, make up, and plan a rosy future again. It seems so far distant that I sometimes keep wondering if it was meant to be! All we can do is hope and pray for the best. Well, it’s now 12:10 A.M., and I must get a little sleep, as I’m going to wash woodwork, iron clothes, and lots of things tomorrow, and should get up real early. Good night, honey, and here’s hoping for a reunion of the three of us real soon. Letter-441008 Mon Feb 17 13:28:07 2025 3 Love and Kisses Mommy and Ronnie P.S. Did I say this was going to be a short letter? How do I ramble on? ...

09 Oct October 9, 1944

Posted at 19:53h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England October 9, 1944 Mon. 7:00 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad describes London post the bombing and the difficulty of living in the subways. Dear Alice and Ronnie: I’ve finally been to London and saw the town. Hadn’t expected to go until this week but got a break and went a week earlier. Breaks don’t come very often in the army so when I got a chance to go a week early I jumped at it. I started out with Rogers and a couple of the other boys here but we soon got lost from each other in the grand rush for trains[,] buses and the subway. Ended up at the Red Cross with a fellow in my platoon. We spent the night at the Red Cross. Slept on clean white sheets and had a real pillow[,] the first since July 12th. It really was like sleeping in heaven, almost. Got up about 8:30 A.M. had toast and bacon, fried potatoes, jam and cereal. That is also the first toast since July 13th. After breakfast page 2 we started out to see the town. Visited <Petty Coat> [Petticoat] Lane. (Chicago Market street) first. This kid I was with seemed to be interested only in women so first chance I had I ditched him and finished what was left of the morning on <the> my own. This [Petticoat] Lane makes Chicago’s Maxwell st. look sick but even then there was nothing of any value I could buy without coupons, unless I wanted to pay a black market price which I didn’t feel like donating to the Jews. Did buy Ronnie a couple of lead soldiers which I am enclosing in the package with your bracelet. Bought a flashlight which worked when I bought it but doesn’t now. Had a hamburger steak dinner (fair) at a fourth rate cafe. Then went back to the Red Cross where I hooked up with three other GIs and took a taxi Page 3 tour around the city. It cost us two dollars apiece and we were out two hours and a half. Was very interesting. We saw Buckingham Palace, King’s Palace, 10 Downing st., WestMinster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, (We went through these two, and they really are masterpieces of construction). In St. Paul’s Cathedral saw where a 1,000-pound bomb came through the left wing but did not explode. It really tore a hole clear through the place. The bomb was on display. We also saw London Bridge, Tower Bridge, ( Crossed there too), Tower Castle, Bank of England, Queen Victoria Castle where Queen Mary lives, House of Parliament, and many other government buildings, Big Bend, City of London (which is about a mile square and was the original city of London, it’s almost 100% bombed out), Piccadilly Circus, ( red Light district at nite although I didn’t see it at nite) and many other places including hundreds page 4 of bombed homes, office buildings and warehouses. Also saw results of last bomb to hit London. It was last Thursday nite and those things are not Block busters they are Blocksbusters. It demolished an entire block plus damaging buildings for a couple blocks each way from where it struck. London has really been bombed hard but life goes on much the same as I imagine it ordinarily does and although there are thousands of buildings destroyed, there seems to be a million that aren’t. London is really a big city and I think it would be impossible to entirely wipe it off the map. I saw nothing bombed that seemed to be any military value. Was in two large railroad stations and they were never touched. The taxi driver told us that the Germans were lousy shots and never hit anything of military value. Houses and buildings along the river Thames seem to get it the hardest. Suppose the planes page 5 could see the river and followed it in. The taxi driver had been discharged from the army and he didn’t think much of Churchill, his gang, and all the other Aristocrats. According to him class distinction is still very much in existence here and a poor man had no chance. I believe that myself from my own observations. The only thing about London that begins to compare with Chicago or any large American city was their subway. Their subway system is really marvelous and I was amazed at the efficiency and bigness of their subway system. Believe it or not but there still are people sleeping down in these subways some 60 or 70 feet underground. I saw them with my own eyes. Little babies, girls, boys, young and old. That is a terrible sight. I understand they sleep there now because they have no page 6 homes to go to. How would you like that, sleeping in three tier high bunks against a wall with thousands of people passing you all the time with the subway lights making it as light as day down there. I know you have never been in a city that is blacked out so you have no idea what it is like trying to get about in a huge city in a total blackout. One feels as small as the most insignificant grain of sand on a seashore. Boy was that an experience trying to find your way around. Oh yes[,] saw Charles Dickens’ old curiosity shop. It is operating today on a paying basis in the exact condition it was when he had it. Well that’s London from what I could see in the very short time I was there. It is old, old fashioned, huge, and very interesting from a historic viewpoint. Personally, I wouldn’t live there for anything. I probably won’t go page 7 back there unless I get a much longer pass. Can’t tell you how long my pass was but do know that a third of it was spent in coming and going when it should have taken only about one tenth of the time figuring on the basis of our country. Transportation in England is really very poor and awful tiresome. Haven’t received any mail now of any kind from anyone for almost a week. Certainly would be nice to get a few letters only a week or two old sometime. Got overcoats, wool cap and gloves tonight. Maybe I’ll be a little warmer now. I sure was glad to get that overcoat. War news seems to be a little better the last few days. Maybe the last crucial big push is really on. I’ve got my fingers crossed. Some thing big must be brewing now[,] have seen a lot of <? Roniues> planes today and can still hear them going over. Once again my hopes page 8 are raising a little for an early return home. One can <?much> tell. Things do happen fast sometimes. Heard today that Wilkie had died. Too bad, not that I was so strong for him but he has had a place in our history. The British have given him a very nice write up. Guess he made a good impression when he was here a couple years ago. Well my dears, without letters there isn’t much else to write about besides I’m tired and sleepy after about 15 miles today with full field pack and getting back late last nite from London. Guess I’ll call it a day and hope you are both well and writing me every day even though I don’t get them. No doubt they will all come in a bunch someday. Bye for now and I love you both very much, Daddy ...

10 Oct October 10, 1944

Posted at 13:57h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Oct. 10, 1944 Tues. 8 P.M. Are you using my new mailing address? It’s G.F.R.S. REPL PooL. A.P.O. 129 % Postmaster, New York, N.Y. Dear Alice and Ronnie, No mail again today so nothing much to write about again. If it weren’t for the fact I had a pretty easy day I probably wouldn’t be writing you tonite because it gets darn hard to keep on writing and saying the same thing over and over and not getting any answer. Of course I know that isn’t your fault so that’s why I’m sitting here now doing it again. You will get a big bang out of it when I get home and can tell you what I did today. Anyway, I think if I keep it up I will be good enough to get in the big league someday. As long as I have to stay here I’ll take page 2 all of like we had today that they want to give me. Walked down to the Red Cross tonite with Rosen. We tried to get some milk but I guess my source of supply there has finished. Anyhow, the last three trips there he has told us he has none for us. Too bad as I am really going to miss that milk. We played a few games of checkers and then I came home. Rosen stayed for the dance. He has some A.T.S. on the string he dances with every week. She’s married and so is he so I guess it’s all right, at least he says it is, I don’t know. Now that brings me up to date and you see; since writing you that eight page letter last night, I don’t have much to say tonite. Since getting our overcoats it has warmed up. Maybe we won’t need the thing after all. Haven’t worn mine yet anyhow. Did I tell you my trip to London page 3 cost me two pounds and a half (ten dollars to you). Since I had a little luck in a game of poker last Friday night before going and won five dollars the trip didn’t cost me so much. And I still have a little over five pounds of good English money to my credit and the month is already one third over. Guess I’ll make out this month at that without having to skimp. I am mailing the package in the morning. Certainly hope you get it O.K. and it doesn’t take too long. Not as long as it takes yours to reach me, anyhow. Well my dears, that’s all for tonite. Maybe I’ll get some mail tomorrow or someday soon and I’ll have more to write about then. I never hear from anyone from home. Have they forgotten me. Have the wrong address or aren’t I just not receiving my mail? How’s my little Ronnie tonite? All my love to you both and I miss you both very much, Daddy ...

12 Oct October 12, 1944

Posted at 14:39h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Oct. 12, 1944 Thurs. 3 p.m. Noteworthy: Dad longs to be there for Christmas. Dear Alice and Ronnie, A Big day today - Six letters - the first in at least ten days. Three from you, one from Dick <? Wesselius> at Sterling, one from Aunt Perkins at Raub, and one from Brandts telling me the buyer of the lot has backed out. The three from you were dated Sept. 19, 20, and 21st. Since the last one I had received from you before today was dated Sept. 9th[,] that means there must be a few on the road somewhere. Six letters really makes one feel pretty darn good I can tell you and after two days of very miserable rainy weather I can certainly stand some good morale building. The rain has caused us to take things a little easy so [I] have a lot of time to write you a nice long letter. Since page 2 I received no mail yesterday I didn’t feel like writing last night[,] so due to that fact and the extra time on my hands[,] will try to make this one make up for yesterday. Your grip[e] about it taking 16 days for some of my letters to reach you - boy would I be happy if I just received one one letter from you only 16 days old. I am glad that you get them much faster than I. Maybe you need a morale booster more than I do. Although I doubt it very much. As for them sending me to four different camps, well that’s still very much a mystery to me too. But I am not worrying about it as long as I remain in England. From what you say, you must have sent me about ten packages. I have received only the three I told you about. The picture, the large box with the tobacco pouch in it, and the one small box of candy. Certainly hope I get some more of them before shipping out of here. page 3 I mailed your package yesterday. Certainly glad Ronnie got his books. As I told you[,] I just took a chance and had this sales lady mail it for me. By the way, what you say was correct. I was only a quarter mile away from there. Of course I am some distance East of there now. So far I have had no opportunity to buy you a fountain pen. Sorry to hear about Elinor. Certainly hope she is well now and back with you. [I] Suppose you miss her in more ways than one. As for this E Stokburger in Glen Ellyn grabbing all the business or something, that doesn’t worry me. Competition only makes a person work the harder and I don’t care how good he is he can’t get all the business. As for wanting to know where I am now, when you get the package be sure you read the enclosed newspapers very closely. page 4 I have been looking for a truck or train or something for Ronnie <? door> since arriving here. But if you think buying toys is tough back home[,] you should try it here once. Their toys of such nature ae made of cheap card board and paper and I see very few of those. From the number of pairs of shoes you say he is wearing out playing with trains and trucks maybe you should steer his talents to some other line. On the other hand maybe you had better let him have his fun - to hell with the shoes. Boy do I wish I could at least be there Christmas and see him and see what Santa Claus brings him. Dick <? Wesselius> wants to bet me I’ll be home by Mar. 1st. From the way things look now I would be plenty satisfied with that date. Of course if I make it earlier that would be plenty alright. Time out. They just brought me another letter, this one from page 5 Hayes dated Sept, 18th. Guess this is my day at last. She didn’t have much to say except some news. Mentioned that Mr. Cauble had been there and you had invited him over for dinner and he had to leave or something. Couldn’t quite figure it out as you haven’t said anything about it in any of the letters so far. [G]uess I’ll have to wait on some back mail. So Ronnie gets a new pair of size <? 3> 1/2 shoes and Mommie a new suit. Guess we can afford a few clothes once in a while just as long as you wear them to the right places. Certainly glad to hear Ronnie is eating so well. How much does he weigh now[?] As for eating more than his Daddy - well you should see me eat. Also glad to hear you are doing a little better too. Why don’t you try going to bed a little earlier too, maybe that will help. In a way I’m glad you gave up the nite school idea as it would probably mean more work and [it] sounds like you are doing about enough. page 6 [This is] The first I had heard about Dewey’s idea of soldiers not voting. Are you sure you have the right dope there? I wouldn’t worry too much about any secret weapon Hitler may may have. Anyhow he didn’t show anything Oct. 1st. It does look like they are going to be plenty tough from now on in though. [I] Suppose you received my letters asking for a wool sweater and scarf. If not they would be mighty convenient these cold days. Guess I have done pretty well in the clothing line in all other respects. Have you sent the films yet? Size 120. Dick <? Wesselius> didn’t have much news. Said Eggie had been there a couple hours and looked well. I still haven’t heard from him. Complained about them being so busy and that his farm had been a flop this year. Anna Perkins son, Kenneth is stationed on the USS Alabama some page 7 where in the So. Pacific. I thought it very nice of her writing. You remember she is the widow whose home we visited the night that time we were in Raub. This kenneth is the one that had to get married just before going into the navy. She said he wants to get back home - don’t we all. Well my dears, enough for now[,] may add a little more later before mailing this later. 8 P.M. Just saw a free show, "Murder on Broadway" or something. Just a fair show but at least a diversion. It has cleared up tonite and the stars are out real bright. Every time I look at the big dipper over here I think of home. The Big Dipper is very bright from here and always seems so close. Always, when I look at it I remember how easy it is to see it from our front door and how many times i have stood out there and looked at it. page 8 It is certainly hard to believe that I can see the same thing and it looks exactly the same some four thousand miles away. They say we must have bad to enjoy the good. Well here’s one young man who has already had enough of the bad to give him nothing but good the rest of my life. That’s what I have to look forward to and my dear, you needn’t worry about me doing anything now to spoil all that good that I have coming. You just be sure and save it all up for me too and then all three of us, some day, will be able to enjoy what we all know we deserve. So with that I will close and get after some of my evening chores before retiring. Besides the boys want me to get back in the poker game now in progress. They would like to get back some of their money I have. All my love to you both and I’m just waiting for the day I get on that boat headed for N.Y. Daddy ...

13 Oct October 13, 1944

Posted at 13:59h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Oct. 13, 1944 Friday 9:15 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Just lost all I won last night at poker so I decided writing you would be a lot better than losing more. So here I am once again. I still have over $20 to see me through the month. Last night I had over thirty. Guess I’ll get through alright because I always refuse to play past a certain limit. May sound to you that all I do is play poker lately. Well, just about, but it’s either that or mope around here like some do and worry or run around with some <? luny> women. Guess playing poker is the lesser of the three evils. All I can do there is lose my money page 2 and I’ll never have much of that to lose. No letters today, hardly expected any, so there isn’t much news besides the weather. We are getting plenty of bad weather now. It’s either all coming in a bunch or this is mormal. If it’s normal I hate to think what winter is going to be like. I certainly would hate sleeping in a foxhole on a nite like this over in Germany someplace. Can’t remember if I ever told you that I recovered from my cold or not. Anyhow I had a pretty bad one last week but am fully recovered now. I am really surprised as I have every opportunity to have it get worse instead of better. Maybe some of those shots I took back in the States did some good at that. I just finished hearing the news and all about the bombing of Aachen. Those damn Germans certainly are tough to crack. page 3 I don’t see how they hold out but they do and that doesn’t bode any good for any of us over here. Certainly hope they crack soon if they ever are going to. Some time when you are sending me something you might enclose a tube or bottle of hand lotion of some kind. My hands and face get chapped pretty easily these days. Well my dears, it’s pretty late and there is no news so we’ll make this a little short tonite. Am sending this regular mail as I am running low on airmail letters and they have none here at the local post office. I am still waiting for those you were going to send me. Give Ronnie a big hug and kiss for Daddy and have Ronnie give you one for me and I’ll be home yet to do that myself someday. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

14 Oct October 14, 1944

Posted at 15:38h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler October 14th, 1944, Wednesday, 10.40 p.m. Noteworthy: service man is injured, doesn’t sue My darling, How’s my honey? Fine? I hope you’re feeling a little better than I am as the pain in my shoulders started again today. Eleanor’s been giving me some Bohemian massage, and right now I have the electric pad on it, and it sure feels good. I meant to write last night, but wrapped and packed two Christmas boxes for you, and by the time I finished, I was glad to go to bed. You’ll forgive me, won’t you, honey? I took them to the post office today, and although I had them addressed, one from Ronnie, and one from me, he wasn’t going to accept them. A clerk claimed you’re not allowed to receive more than one box per week between September 15th and October 15th. I told him I misunderstood it and meant one package per week from each member of the family, but he said no. I think he’s crazy. I asked him how they were going to page two. stop the rest of your friends and relatives from sending you gifts as they lived all over the country. He said he didn’t know how they would do that, but that all you could be allowed to receive is four Christmas boxes. That’s a laugh, as I’ve sent you seven Christmas boxes already, and know that your sisters and brothers will probably send you more. Even Edith is sending you a gift. I guess I’d better not send you any more, though, unless you send a request for something, which I hope you will. Both Monday and Tuesday, it rained, and this morning was dreary, so still haven’t done any washing. I should have washed this morning as this afternoon turned out nice and sunny. I rec’d your pictures yesterday, and I like them very much. You look very nice in your <? OIs>. I wish I could see you in them. (I wish I could see you, period). You don’t look as though you’ve page 3 lost any weight at all. Your face doesn’t look as though it broke out at all, or are the pictures touched up. Well, anyway, you look like a very handsome soldier, and I’m so proud of the pictures. I’ve been showing them off to everybody. I showed them off at the grocery store today, and Murray thought you made a pretty nice looking soldier. Last night after dinner, Ronnie went over to Bobby’s. When I went to get him at 7:30 he met me at the door, so excited he could hardly talk, and took me by the hand and led me to the basement where Mr. Dixon had been running the electric train for them. You should have seen Ronnie’s eyes follow that train all the way around the track. First thing he said this morning when I got out of the bed was that he wanted to see Bobby’s train. Well, I was getting ready late this morning to go to the post office to handle your packages. I heard Bobby and Ronnie page four flushing and re-flushing the toilet. When I got in there, the sewage was backing up in the toilet in the bathtub and I kept asking Ronnie what they put in the toilet, but got no satisfactory answer. Well the toilet overflowed and about two inches deep before the pump stopped and I called Mrs. Dixon (as Bobby had run home) to find out from Bobby what they put in the toilet, he told her ashes and stones. She came over and by the time she got there and I’d cleaned up most of it, the pump started again and both tub and toilet kept overflowing and wouldn’t stop. She called O’Donnell the plumber and in about 20 minutes (it seemed like two hours) they came (both Hugh O’Donnell and the plumber) and they proceeded to uncap the big sewer pipe downstairs and let out all that dirty sewage water all over the basement (after I cleaned it last Friday too), then cleaned it out and now it’s page five Ok -- I hope. While down there, the plumber stepped on a rusty nail and it went right through his shoe and into the sole of his foot. O’Donnell came up and borrowed iodine and a bandage for him. I asked him how much I owed him and he said he’d send me a bill. Now all I have to worry about is how much it would be? After they left, I had to mop and scrub the bathroom, toilet, tub and also mop up the basement. Baby snakes and worms and bugs of all kinds came out of that sewer pipe -- I still feel creepy. I also had to scrub the kitchen and hall as the plumbers, Mrs. Dixon and I walked all over with wet dirty shoes. Well after all this excitement and so on, I finally got your packages mailed at 4:30 this afternoon. What a life! I guess I have more excitement at home than you have page 6 overseas (ha! ha!). About 5 o’clock, Ray Hines came over expecting to pick up his check. I told him about the deal falling through because of the delay in getting your signature, and that because of the contractor not being willing to wait and so on, the lot was not sold. You’d better write him and give him the details, as I didn’t know much about it. I wouldn’t have known what to tell him at all if I hadn’t called Vansyle (or whatever his name is) at Brant’s and asked why I hadn’t rec’d their check. They said they had informed you so I s’pose you know all about it by now. Ray Hines’ address is: Ray Hines, care of Chicago Bridge and Ironworks, Seneca, Illinois. He did say he had rec’d a letter from you since you left. I called Mrs. Al Evers last night and invited her over for dinner next Wed. evening. She said she had just rec’d page 7 a letter that day, that you had written to her husband. A V-mail I believe. She said he was in Camp Grant for a few days and is now in Camp Ellis, near New Peoria, Ill., where he is getting rifle training. Heretofor medical corps hasn’t been getting any rifle training, but they’re decided they should have it now. After about a month he expects to be sent overseas, she said. Murray came over about 7 o’clock tonight and stayed until 9:00 p.m. Marge was having her hair fixed so he came here to chat. He said he intended to write you a letter tonight when he got home. Ronnie, of course, was still eating when Murray came and kept keeping his food in his cheek instead of chewing, and so Murray put Ronnie in the dark bathroom for punishment. Boy did Ronnie ever get mad and yelled and cried. page eight Anyway, when Murray let him out he was chewing and finished his dinner and dessert. Eleanor and I kept calling him "Papa Murray". He’s always saying if Ronnie were his he’d behave and he’d make him eat and so on. And I sure hope he has a chance to try his methods out on children of his own someday. Ronnie is eating good now-a-days but you know how he gets when other people are around, too interested in everything but eating then. I’m sending you a letter from Indiana U. I know you’ll be interested in attending the Bloomington Games this year (ha! ha!) Well, I’ve exhausted my news now, so as it’s 12:15 I think I’ll retire and write more tomorrow. Good night, honey, And here’s a kiss before I drop off to sleep. And if Ronnie were awake, he’d send you a kiss too. He kisses seven of your pictures every night before going to bed. And that’s quite a job. Bye, honey, and wish you were here. Love always, Mom and Ronnie ...

15 Oct October 15, 1944

Posted at 13:30h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Oct. 15, 1944 Sun. 1:15 P.M. England Dear Alice and Ronnie: Just received a package and a letter from guess who - Yes you. (3:30 P.M. after a trip to the Red Cross.) Now back to the mail. The letter was a very old one mailed Aug. 29th and written on a Sun. night while you were in Rockford. The package was the one with the long black tin full of Baby Ruths and something else that was so spoiled I couldn’t tell what it was let alone eat it. It also spoiled a couple of the candy bars but the rest were O.K. for which I was very thankful. The packages of cheese and the cookies were O.K. Cookies were smashed a little but not all that bad. So now you see from the four packages so far received there has been only one spoiled article. page 2 Not bad I would say. And it looks like you are batting about .999. Thanks very much and I hope I continue to receive them and all in such good condition. [I] had planned on going into the nearby city with Rosen today then he got called on detail so I didn’t go. Went to church with Roth instead. Roth is the tall slim fellow you met at Blanding. This was my first time at church here in this camp and I believe will be my last as I wasn’t overly impressed with very much of it. [They] Did have an electric organ that sounded pretty good. Last night [I] attended a local show here in camp. After about 20 minutes of it the electricity went off so no more show. So Rosen and I decided to go to [the] local Red Cross where I indulged in some Cokes and donuts and attended a local talent performance. It was composed mainly of individual page 3 musical performances. Some were really good, and I enjoyed it. One of the fellows back in my hut in Blanding sang a couple songs and he put them over very well. Really surprised me as he is one of the Jewish lads who did more than his share of gold bricking and never impressed anyone very much. Didn’t write you yesterday (or did I), can’t remember now. Come to think of it [I] believe I did write you a short letter. Anyhow didn’t receive any mail yesterday and there wasn’t much to write about. Besides I got involved in another little game of chance and I was doing my best to regain what had been taken away from me the nite before. I was pretty busy and pretty successful. Now I am back to normal and suppose I should call it quits but suppose I won’t. There is a game going on now that looks very page 4 inviting. You see you come first so [I] guess you still rate pretty high. This is not really a "duty" letter either. The weather has turned out very nice today. First really warm nice day for two or three weeks. One can hear and see considerable air activity the last few days so that the boys over there must be getting some much-needed support. I often wonder what those babies must look like to the boys in the foxholes when they go over. As you probably know by now I am going into my sixth week in this, my fourth camp in England, which has really been a break I think. One that I hope will continue but is very uncertain especially right at the present. I am looking for a change any day. Well variety is the spice of life they say. And from that standpoint, I am due for a change. No doubt you have already sent page 5 them, but in case some of my letters have been lost or something will ask again. Have you sent me a box of those powders yet? You know the ones I was taking for my stomach? If there aren’t any there in the linen closet you can get them at Von Herman’s Pharmacy 110 So. Mich Ave. Dr. John McNamara wrote the prescription about 8 or 9 yrs ago. I’m running very low on the supply I have on hand and as long as I am forced to eat this GI food guess I will have to take a powder once in a while. Well my dears, enough for now. How’s my little Ronnie today and I sure wish I were there with you both - especially on such a nice day as this doing something together. A fellow certainly gets darn homesick walking down the street over here and seeing the civilians out with their families and looking very much as though there was no war or anything going page 6 on any place in the world. If there weren’t so damn many soldiers around one would wonder sometimes if there was a war going on. Well it’s nice to think that way today because at 5 A.M. tomorrow I <? damn> soon will wake up to reality. Ten weeks here hasn’t improved my impressions any either. I’m really quitting now so bye bye to you both and I miss you very much. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

16 Oct October 16, 1944

Posted at 13:32h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Oct. 16, 1944 Mon. 6:15 p.m. Dear Alice and Ronnie, It’s raining like hell outside, and am I glad I’m not in any old tent tonite. Besides it raining all day off and on, it is cold and very, very miserable. Boy the Limies can sure take this country and stick it up there - Well they can have it anyway. The Germans didn’t capture this country for one reason only. They found out what it was like and decided it was not worth taking. Received another package today but no letters. I would rather have had a letter or two. This package was the one containing the Lux soap. For which I thank you very much. However, so far have been able to page 2 buy enough soap. No doubt when I move on though, that situation will change so I can always use it. Of course we don’t get Lux Soap. It’s usually some make I have never heard of before or Life Boy. Got put on a detailed job today that is right in line with my civilian work. As a result of my previous experience[,] [I] was put in charge. Have a detail of five men and we are laying a concrete floor in the basement of the local Red Cross. Since everything has to be done by hand the job should take at least a week. And unless things happen around here they say we will be on the job to the end which will suit me because, besides having bankers’ hours and not working too hard, we get away from Army routine a little and that’s a blessing any time. However, I am not too optimistic about page 3 finishing the job, as you may be getting a change of address from me most any time for which I am going to be very unhappy. Have I told you about our finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? There was no gold in it but I did find the end of the rainbow. I know that sounds nuts but it’s the truth and I have plenty of ’I’s in here to back up my statement. Sat. P.M., while out in the field close to camp in the rain the sun suddenly came out and lo and behold there was the most beautiful rainbow I have ever seen. Through some freak of nature one end of it was not a 100 yards from where we sat. There was a pretty good sized hill a short distance away and the end of the rainbow was distinctly between us and the hill. Believe it or not, it was a beautiful sight and one I don’t suppose one page 4 sees very often during a lifetime. This is a crazy country, just another thing to make it even more so. Not much more to write about tonight. There is plenty I would like to tell you but suppose it would just be wasting paper because they would just cut it out. By the way, let me know just how cut up my letters are. Perhaps I am saying too much or not enough already. I think it’s pretty darn hard sometimes to know just how far to go and where to stop. Some of the boys get their letters sent back to be rewritten. That hasn’t happened to me yet anyhow. Well my dears, enough for this time. Certainly hope to get some up-to-date letters from you soon. Until then I love you both very much and sure wish I were there instead of here. Daddy ...

17 Oct October 17, 1944

Posted at 20:24h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England October 17, 1944 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. Noteworthy: Dad allows the Army to catch up with him. More talk of infidelity. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Here I am on my Instruction detailed job. Things are a little slow at the moment due to the heavy downpour outside. For once the rain is doing me a favor and you are receiving part of the benefit. Don’t know how much of this I will get written but at least a start is better than nothing. Again I haven’t much to write about as there has been no mail call yet today hence no letters. We usually have mail call around 5 p.m. so before finishing this I hope to have received at least a dozen letters from some little gal about four thousand miles away. I had to be out in the rain just long enough to get soaked from page 2 my knees down and since they still don’t know what heat is like over here I am sitting here shivering -- from my knees down. If I ever had thought, a year or so ago[,] that I would have to put up with something some of the things I have put up with during the last eight months -- boy I think I would have done something drastic before allowing the army to catch up with me. Today marks the end of my 8th month since I first put on that uniform. It doesn’t seem a day less than 8 yrs. This Red Cross building certainly seems strange right now. It’s a pretty large three story stone building and usually it’s so damn full of GIs one can hardly move. Right now, since training hours are page 3 still on, there are only about one half dozen of us here and we have the works to ourselves, you might say. Someone is playing a piano upstairs, on the second floor where I am, the radio is on with Gildersleeve doing his stuff. I guess it is a rebroadcast. On the first floor is where we are supposed to be working that is if it weren’t for the rain. This Red Cross building is absolutely the only place of recreation for the entire camp here on the camp ground. So you can imagine what a luxury it must be to get it all to one’s self, almost, for once though it may only be for a short time. They serve coffee, tea, cokes, and donuts here during opening hours. Unfortunately officially the place isn’t Page 4 open at this hour of the day so I can’t indulge in any of those delicacies. Has Elinor returned yet? And has she gone back to work or is she? I haven’t heard from you concerning her since she went to the hospital right after Labor Day. Certainly hope things are back to normal by this time. Still haven’t received a word from Gladys or Dick since arriving here. Surely would like to know what happened to both of them. Have you seen or heard from her lately? How’s my little Ronnie today and I wonder what mischief he’s into at the present. Hope he and you both are well and that you both remain that way all winter. You know your health is about the most important thing now. Take good care of it. Charlie McCarthy is page 5 on now[,] first time I’ve heard him since going in the army. He sounds the same. Read where Indiana U had won a couple football games. I would be interested in hearing who they have beaten so far and what other dope you can tell me about their team. All news we get here is always late but better late than never -- Well, my dear will see you later -- Geo. 6 p.m. Later and it’s still pouring down rain. This lousy country and their weather. They can take the damn place and dump it in the Pacific Ocean. Regardless of the rain, I feel very good tonight as I am three nice long letters richer than I was when I started this letter. They were dated Sept 26, 27, and 28th. And told of Gladys and Dick’s visit in to see you plus many other page 6 things mmong them being your foolish stunt of papering the bedroom all by yourself, and in one afternoon. Seems it doesn’t do much good to tell you to take things a little easy once in a while. Now that it is done I hope you are at least able to sleep better and your shoulder is no worse than you thought. Sounded like you did have a rather expensive nite for what you got at the Kungsholm restaurant wherever that is. Too bad you didn’t enjoy it a little more. Of course I know all you needed was some guy like me too help matters a little. As for skipping writing[,] well just don’t let it happen too often. So Dick went to Ft Meade and I suppose by now he is somewhere over here. Certainly wish I had his address as I would like to find him. Glad he went to Ft Meade instead of Ft Ord. Believe page 7 he will still get a better deal than Les even though Les was kept for Cadre. They must have changed their policy at Blanding since I left because I have had first-hand information that every one of our bunch were shipped out. In fact I know where most of us are. Les will probably go to S. Pacific eventually and that’s one place I don’t want to go. Again you mentioned your fear of my doing too much of the wrong kind of running around over here. Can’t figure out if you are just doing some needless worrying, have [you] learned some thing about Dick or someone else and are [you] comparing me to them or is it that you might have similar ideas of your own and this is your defense. All I can say is if you do have such ideas[,] you had better build a big defense against giving in to any such ideas. If I had the slightest idea that you were doing the things I hear that many of the English wives with page 8 husbands in the service, are doing over here it would be curtains for you in no uncertain terms. However, I am trusting you explicitly and certainly hope you feel the same towards me. I can assure you that you have every reason to, as for as me looking at these English girls and passing an opinion, well my dear, any time I get to such a stage that I am no longer interested in looking at women[,] I hardly doubt if you would be very much interested in me either, right? [I] think I told you that we do pass our packages around - what few we get. Of course the packages are smaller and there are more to pass them around to[,] but it still helps getting anything from home. Letters, of course, come first. After that, anything helps. It was nice of Jostis to have you out. Certainly hope you had a nice time. Glad to page 9 hear they received my letter. Just took a chance not putting an address on it. As for your old-fashioned ideas about a certain subject, well just keep on thinking that way, because I too have the same old-fashioned ideas. Regardless of what I may have said once in a joking manner. And if my memory treats me right I believe I said that I had "heard" it was all the same in the dark, not was the same. [I] believe I asked you once before to send me my flashlight also again will ask for a box of my powders, I’m getting very low. As for your England and Scotland argument, let me lend my support. Scotland is not a part of England, but is a part of Great Britain and the British Isles. While a colony such as Canada is considered a part of the British Empire. I think in comparison, Scotland or N. Ireland is the same to Great Britain as Alaska is to the United States. Now, where does that put you? Anyhow, I am very glad to hear Elinor is back and well enough to do a bit of arguing. Also glad to hear they are page 10 finally, fixing our street. Sounds like a city project so won’t cost me anything. Boy, I’ll bet Ronnie and Bobby really are having a field day with all that activity. How can the neighbor next door stand it? Well my dears by the time the censors get through all this they will pass up all the rest of the letters so I guess it’s past time to quit. Anyhow, I have written ten pages which is one more than your nine page letter. Now you see where you stand. Give Ronnie a big hug and kiss for me and I hope you are both feeling 100%. With all my love to you both. Daddy ...

19 Oct October 19, 1944

Posted at 19:44h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England October 19, 1944 Thursday, 7 p.m. Prescript. Received your package of stationery yesterday. Where are the stamps? Dear Alice and Ronnie, I hit the jackpot today, as did most of the rest of the company. It seems that much of our back mail finally caught up with us. One fellow got 27 letters. I didn’t fare so well but did get eight letters, four from you, all old, one from Norma, one from Forest, Gladys, and Murray. The letter from Murray was the only recent letter and it turns out to be the quickest letter I have received since coming to England. It was mailed Oct. 6th plain postage and told about your visit with the Tostis. Your last letter merely stated that you were going out there. Now you can see how really screwed up the mail page 2 is. Your four letters consisted of your anniversary card[,] the card you mailed while at Paw Paw Lake[,] and two letters Sept 14th and Sept 15th. The letters from Gladys, Norma and Forest were all mailed in Aug. That is really what I call service. Nevertheless I am very glad to receive them all and am more than happy they have caught up with me now. Very possible that if they had been a few days later[,] it might have been much later. Am waiting very patiently now for that box of powders you say you have sent. Certainly hope it gets here soon otherwise it too may do some more chasing. Thanks very much for the nice anniversary card. It is a little late but of page 3 course I know that wasn’t your fault. And I still do hope you think I am pretty swell. I still think you are. Of course it wasn’t so good getting a card the same day telling me all about your big dance party at Paw Paw Lake. Your Sept. 14th letter written Sept. 12th told about your peach canning experience. Certainly hope I get back in time to help you and Ronnie stow them away. In case you didn’t know it there is a pressure cooker upstairs in the attic which you could have used and made your work much easier. This letter also tells about your new niece. They are doing alright at that. I certainly envy them and what they have and their further opportunities. Oh well our day is coming yet. page 4 Your Sept. 14th letter mailed Sept. 15th told of Mr. Cauble’s visit. Sounded like you handled that situation pretty well under the circumstances. By the way, what did you think of him[?] I always had a pretty high opinion of him myself. Always found him quiet, very intelligent and well versed on current affairs. His one fault was that he allowed his women folk to run over him pretty much. In the end though I usually observed that the thing that he really wanted he got. You said you went Christmas shopping for me but didn’t say that you bought anything. Well I can tell you that I have made some Christmas shopping efforts too but they all have so far proved very page 5 unsuccessful to date. I’m going to hate like hell to disappoint you and Ronnie but so far the prospects certainly don’t look very bright. Received the two clippings, one of the wreck, and the one about <? Claune>. He looks older every time I see him. I think how life must be tougher for him than army life is for me. Forest’s letter was a V-mail and didn’t have much to say. Did tell me about receiving my letter and about sending you the picture, also that he was to be stationed in Washington another six months. He’s really getting a rough break I’d say. Gladys had even less to say and since Dick still had a month training yet when she wrote[,] I still don’t know page 6 much about where he is. Norma’s letter was quite newsy and remarked that she had received a very nice letter from you. They are all well and want us to visit them at our first opportunity which I would very much like to do. Murray sent me a number of football clippings which I was glad to receive and said you all had a nice time at the Tostis. Also said Dewey had a chance to win - I hope - and he was still at Pullman but his further stay there was questionable. [He] mentioned that someone he [k]new had worked for Chamberlin in Glen Elyn and the deal out there looked pretty good. I took it page 7 from his remarks that he might even be interested although he didn’t say so in so many words. He advised me to be careful of the English gals, but guess the advise [advice] I have already received on that score has proved sufficient. So now you see the letter situation has improved a little but there still are many missing letters and none of yours got here very fast. Try sending one or two straight mail once and see what happens. I’m still on my construction detail. I did a pretty fair day’s work this afternoon. Any time you think mixing concrete by hand is child’s play you should try it. Even though I am supposed to be more or less in charge of the detail, I did a considerable amount page 8 of work and my back is certainly telling me all about it tonight. We still have a few more days of it. I think by that time I am going to be glad the job[’s] down. Well my dears I started this letter just three hours ago - I’ve been interrupted intermittently ever since plus a few long winded conversations, etc. plus a pretty long winded letter, which now means it’s bedtime and I’m ready to call a halt. I had planned on writing a few other people this evening, too. But it looks like you are the only one getting a break. But how you rate. Give my love to Elinor, a big kiss and hug to Ronnie and all that’s left to you. No kidding. I miss you very much and every day now it gets harder. Certainly hope this damn war ends soon as I can’t imagine how I can stand being away very much longer. Love, Daddy ...

21 Oct October 21, 1944

Posted at 21:41h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler October 21, 1944 Sat. Nite 10:00 P.M. Hello, Darling, Saturday night again and I’m home all alone. If you only knew how much I miss you right this minute! It seems somehow that of all the nights I stay at home, Saturday night is the hardest to take. I keep remembering how we used to get all dressed up, fit to kill, then go to the Nantucket or the Barn for dinner, and later sit and hold hands in a movie. Am I breaking your heart? Those Saturday evenings meant a lot then, but if I could relive one in the next week or two, I’d give almost anything. I told you in the last night’s letter that I had a terrific cold in my head. Well, I feel a lot better today, thank goodness (and Alka-Seltzer). I managed to clean house, air my rugs (the hall and living room runners), and made three meals for Ronnie me and myself. Sure is hard to make meals page 2 when Ronnie and I are home alone, but for dinner tonight I prepared broiled short steaks, mashed potatoes, gravy, buttered green beans, lettuce, and cheese cake, milk and coffee. I even enjoyed eating in spite of just having Ronnie for company. He’s quite an escort at that, as he certainly keeps up a table conversation. He asked me today if "Daddy was coming back soon." I said, "I think so." Every once in a while during the day he picks up one of your pictures, kisses it, hugs it and puts it back. It’s so cute, wish you could see him! The other night as I was dressing him, I was telling him that we were going bye-bye in the car to pick up Elinor (who was at the beauty shop). He said, "Did the airplane push Elinor down?" (Boy, did I have a time explaining myself out of that one.) Of course, Elinor told him that she makes airplanes. So I s’pose he figured page 3 that if "we were going to pick her up," she must have been pushed down by an airplane. He’s so full of questions all the time, that I can’t keep up with him. Lately when he asked me to do this or that, and I ask "Why," he answers "Because." Where he picked that up I don’t know. After dinner tonight, at 6:00 o’clock, Ronnie and I went shopping on the Avenue. I bought a rag rug for the bedroom, a pr of denim overalls (blue, trimmed in red) overalls for Ronnie, a piece of blue corduroy to make him another pr of overalls, had my wedding shoes half-soled, and a few other small items. I looked at the corduroy overalls and they cost $2.25, so instead I bought the material, and in this way they’ll cost only a $1.25, and will fit nicer, too, I hope. Almost forgot I also bought a warm wool helmet for Ronnie. It’s navy blue and red. page 4 By now I s’pose you see that whenever we go shopping, it’s usually for Ronnie. He sure outgrows his clothes in a hurry, too. You’ll also be proud to know that he wears size 5 and 6 in overalls, now, and they’re not much too large either, just about an inch too long, that’s all. It’s no wonder his old size 2 overalls, don’t fit him anymore. I buy his clothes in the boys department now. Now [None] of this "infant stuff" goes anymore. Elinor left right from work to go on her vacation, so I’ll be alone now until Thurs. night when she’ll be back. Well, Darling, until tomorrow, I’ll say goodnight, now, and here’s a big hug and kiss. (Can you take it?) I’m plenty worried, as I haven’t heard a thing from you for a whole week now. I’m really doubling up on my prayers, honey! All our love, Mommie and Ronnie ...

21 Oct October 21, 1944

Posted at 19:46h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England October 21, 1944 Sat. 3:15 p.m. Noteworthy: Dad expresses he would rather go back home than go anywhre else. Dear Alice and Ronnie, While waiting for my pass I will dash off a few lines to some gal back in the States that might be looking for a letter. As a result of our extra effort on our construction work this week our whole detail of six men were given a special week-end pass and as per my usual self I am all ready to go before the passes are ready. It’s just like waiting on someone else I know whenever we were going someplace. I am taking Mr. Page’s uncle’s address with me, and if I get half an opportunity will look him up. However the length of the pass probably won’t allow me to go there. I haven’t received any letters since the big day three days ago. Did receive the powders today though and they are almost as welcome as a letter would have been. Of course that just means one letter - no more and at that would page 2 rather have the letter. Thanks very much for them and also of the letters I have already received. Just keep them coming. I had to read over a number of your old letters in order to find the address. That just about made up for the one I didn’t get today. So far have been able to keep all your letters. If I am able to keep them all and bring them home with me think I will have to have a bus boy or something to carry them. Must have close to 50 of yours by now. As you see I am still at this my fourth camp and very happy to be here. Censored. After being in one place almost nine weeks now one more or less gets used to things and I for one am not at all anxious to move until I take that one big hop back across the pond. I’m still working at the Red Cross pouring concrete and if still here will probably be there most of next week. It’s still a pretty good break because it’s nice to get a little bit away from regular Army routine. Besides I’m learning more about concrete than I page 3 ever knew before which won’t hurt me any. We are still having very bad weather, and right this minute it’s preparing to rain again which isn’t going to help any when it comes to going places. However, I am rapidly learning to live like a duck so rain doesn’t faze me too much. Well, my dears, I missed writing yesterday and no doubt will have a chance to write you tomorrow but Monday will try to make up for it and write you a nice long one. Maybe by that time I’ll get a letter or two. That would certainly help. One of the boys here just received notice from his home of a death in his family from [an] automobile accident that happened back in August. If anything should happen to either of you or you are seriously ill etc. the first thing you do is go to the Red Cross and send me a cablegram and if there ever is anything wrong don’t try to keep it from me. Let me know at once. Don’t know just what I could do about it, but would certainly try to do something. For this poor chap it’s far too late now. All they did was send him a telegram. I hope and pray it never becomes necessary for you to have to do any such thing but just in case it’s well that you know what to do. page 4 Hadn’t planned on going into this extra page but when I get off on a tangent it’s pretty hard to stop sometimes. It’s nearing time to go so I must quit now though. I certainly wish I were there with you and Ronnie. Maybe someday. I wrote Forest the other day and offered to bet him that I would be home to stay by June 1st 1945. That’s moving my sights back considerably I know[,] but this time I am going to stick to that date and just hope it will be much sooner. The invasion of [the] Philippine Islands and [the] fall of Aachen and Belgrade looks pretty good to me so maybe things will happen yet. In the meantime, keep things going back home and take good care of Ronnie and yourself and I’ll be there to do it myself before you know it. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

22 Oct October 22, 1944

Posted at 20:04h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Oct. 22, 1944 Sunday Nite 10:00 P.M. Noteworthy: The importance of Ronnie to Mom. Mention of the book about the German occupation of Poland. Hye, honey, Here I am again! I’m still writing every night. It’s rather discouraging sometimes when I stop to think that you’re not receiving very many of them, but then again I figure that if I stop writing every day, you may get even less, and I know how I feel when I get letters so seldom. It is now more than a week since I’ve had a letter from you. It seems you’re really slipping on your end of the line, unless you’ve been moved again, which I hope is not so. Bobby came over early this morning while Ronnie was eating his breakfast, and when he finished, they went outside to play. First they had a fight over Bobby’s car, then after a while they had a sand fight, and Ronnie got his eyes and mouth full and came home crying. Then they had a fight over page 2 Ronnie’s train. More excitement. Then after a while I had a heck of a time getting Ronnie to come home for lunch and his nap. After his nap, the Hayes[es] came over and asked me to go for a walk and to have supper at their place. I said I’d take a walk with them, but only to mail your letter, and not for supper. We were all set to go, when Elinor and her sister Vy came, and so I didn’t go with them. Of course Elinor had just stopped to pick up some clothes as she and her sister were going downtown to stay for a couple of days to shop and to visit her aunt in Forest Park. I had baked an apple pie this afternoon and had some ice cream in the refrigerator, so Ronnie and I had green beans, sandwiches and pie and ice cream for supper. Bobby came over, and so he got in on the dessert, too! page 3 Mrs. Dixon had given me a couple pieces of cherry pie last week, so when I returned the plate tonight, I gave her a couple pieces of pie. They said it was good (or were they flattering me). We stayed there for a while and [then] we all went down the basement to watch the electric train. Ronnie is all eyes when it goes around the track. His eyes light up, and he laughs and is all excited. I asked Dim if he’d set up his lights some night and I could take a picture of Ronnie watching the train. Maybe this week, and I’ll send you the pictures when I get them. This was the extent of my day and evening so far. Ronnie is sound asleep, and here I am! My cold is practically gone now, except that I’ve acquired a lot of canker sores in my mouth and on my lip. I’m still trying to get #120 film, but so far I’m out of luck. page 4 I’m reading, "While We Still Live" by Helen McInnis. It’s very good, and is about the German occupation of Poland in this war, and how the underground and guerrillas in Poland live, get food, weapons, and shelter, despite the devastation of the invaders. It’s very interesting and tells about espionage and counterespionage in Poland. It really gives a person something to think about and makes you realize how the Poles have suffered throughout both wars. Can’t think of anything more to write, as my normal routine day is pretty dull and unexciting. If it weren’t for Ronnie I’d give up completely, but he distracts my worries, and we have a lot of fun. Please write and tell me all about yourself, and if you’re well, etc., and if you’re behaving as you should, on account of I love you lots and lots and lots and lots. Goodnight, honey, Mom and Ronnie ...

23 Oct October 23, 1944

Posted at 23:34h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler October 23, 1944, Monday, 8.40 p.m. Hello Sweetheart, Gee whiz! Absence make the heart grow fonder, and that’s no lie. Just think, it’s now nine days without a letter. I’m losing weight at the rate of about a pound a day, which means I’ll be a bag of bones if I don’t hear from you soon. I force myself to eat, but sure don’t feel like it. I have an awful feeling that you’ve been transferred closer to some combat zone. Of course, I expected it to happen, but for a while the war news was so optimistic that I guess I was so sure you’d be home soon. It’s a shock not hearing from you for so long now. With Eleanor on her vacation, I haven’t even had her to distract my thoughts. It sure is no fun being alone every day and evening and not even a letter from you to make page two. at least a few minutes of the day, happy ones. This morning and early afternoon I kept busy, as I’m making a suit for Ronnie. It’s royal blue corduroy and consists of long pants and a vest. I’m making a white blouse for him to go with it too. Besides this, I’m also making a dress for myself. This afternoon at four o’clock, Mrs. Dixon, Ronnie, Bobby, and I went to the library and shopping for groceries. I actually managed to get a 1/2 lb of butter, and that’s something nowadays. Haven’t been able to get any sugar for weeks but have my name on a list at Bernie’s when and if they get some. If I thought it would bring you home any sooner, I’d go without both, and if I thought you were getting the butter and sugar instead. The way it sounds, tho, you’re getting very little of it too. Mary was here tonight and page three stayed from 7:00 to 8:30. Mrs. Dixon also stopped in for a few minutes while she was here. Mary brought Ronnie a bag of candy and a little glass airplane with candy in it. She told me she had bought wool material for a skirt for Joan and asked me if I wouldn’t help Edith sew it. I will if she asked me to, but otherwise I think I’ll stay clear as I have enough sewing to do for Ronnie and myself. I know what helping means, I’ll find myself doing it all. Mrs. Dixon asked me if Ronnie and I would accompany her and Bobby to the Chicago Theater tomorrow morning. She says she thinks Ronnie and Bobby would enjoy the stage show. I’ll be glad to go because I’m afraid I’m spending too much time at home brooding and worrying. Mrs. Dixon probably is asking me to go for that reason as she thinks I should get out more page 4 than I do. Ernest Hayes told me yesterday that all the Caubles think I’m a pretty nice girl. Imagine! What do you think? After all, I’ve done nothing in particular to curry their favor unless they think I’m doing a fair job of caring for Ronnie, and I’m trying my best, altho I’m doing it for you and Ronnie and myself and not for their approval. Ronnie is doing fine with his eating now and eats as fast as I do instead of lingering as he used to. He still eats his orange juice, oatmeal, egg, sliced toast, and a couple glasses of milk every morning, too, plus peaches or bananas at times. His cheeks are nice and rosy too. In fact, even Mary said he was the picture of health. I almost forgot she wanted me to give you her regards and she hopes you get back soon. Well goodnight darling. All my love, Mom and Ronnie ...

23 Oct October 23, 1944

Posted at 19:56h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Oct. 23, 1944 6:30 p.m. Mon. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Another day almost over without doing very much. Did not go back on the construction detail today so now I’m back in Army life. Felt pretty good to take things a little easy after my trip to London. Didn’t exactly do much there to make one tired but traveling in England is tiresome no matter where you go and how far it is away. Didn’t have time to go out to Mr. Page’s uncle and since I don’t expect to go to London again, probably will never get to see him now. I had a pretty nice time in London this time again. Didn’t get there until late so was unable to do anything in the evening except stumble around walking the streets in the blackout. Was there during an alert. But didn’t. page 2 hear the bomb land. According to next day’s paper it landed some distance from where we were. Although the next day we were in a section of the city where the street was all barricaded off and showed signs of very recent bombing. Again I saw people sleeping or trying to, in the subway and visited Petticoat Lane again where I had an opportunity to buy you some silk hose $5.50 per pr. They were full fashioned but not a very fine silk. At that, I would have gotten you some if it hadn’t been for the color. They had only one color a light brown or dark tan. I didn’t think you would ever wear that color. Hope I’m not wrong as I came so close to buying them anyway. Figured it might make you a nice Christmas present. As it is now I still have your and Ronnie’s Christmas to buy. And any further opportunity seems very slim now. We stayed at the Red Cross and again slept page 3 between clean sheets and had a pillow to sleep on. Pretty nice I’m telling you. Also attended a show in the afternoon, before returning to camp, that was pretty good[,] Don Ameche in Greenwich Village. The theater was the finest I have been in here and had an organ. No stage show. Good seats cost me 4/6 or 90 cents. Certainly expected to have some letters awaiting me when I returned. But there were none and again none today. Boy they had better come tomorrow otherwise I don’t know when I will receive them. I’m certainly thankful I received the powders when I did. Well here I am almost at the end of the month again and I still have almost $20 left. You see I’m not faring too badly at the little game of chance I play. Played about eight hours today but didn’t win much so I figure the day a loss. Of course I still have the evening page 4 ahead of me. [I have] Old Murray, Norma and Gladys letters but thought I would wait a couple days perhaps by that time will have a little more to say and talk about. Could do the same to you too but you see you must be different because here I sit with nothing much I can talk about[,] but much I would like to tell you and can’t. That’s about all today my dears. How is my little Ronnie tonight and is he taking good care of Mommy for me? I hope someone is taking care of somebody back there because I want both of you to be hale and hearty when I return. Saw by today’s Stars and Stripes that Indiana beat Northwestern Saturday. They would have a good team the only year when I’m not able to see them play. Suppose Murray saw the game. That’s all for now. I miss you and love you both very much[,] Daddy. ...

24 Oct October 24, 1944

Posted at 19:51h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice R. [E] Shonkwiler England October 24, 1944 Tuesday 2:35 p.m. Noteworthy: Dad thinks the war will not change him much. Dad gives child rearing advice. Dad explains (facetiously?) why he is saving the letters. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another windfall today. Seven letters -six from you dated Sept. 15th, 16th, and 22nd, Oct. 12th - 2nd and 13th. That means 11 days for the last one and that’s the fastest to date. The other letter was from Jim Tosti dated sometime in Oct. the 10th I think it was. Now that’s a pretty good haul and makes me very, very happy because they have come just in time. Having been doing much again today. In fact this reminds me very much of the two weeks following July 13th. Played a little poker this morning, did a few small things for the Army and right now I’m doing a thing or two for you and Ronnie. Most of the other fellows are <? recessed> in the same manner so I have the right environment at last. page 2 Haven’t received any more of the 5 lb boxes you mentioned having sent me except the two I have already told you about. Just think what I have to look forward to. Some of the meals you tell me you are having back home certainly make me sick I’ll tell you. At that though, I’d much rather have you eating well and me not than to have all three of us not eating well. So far I get plenty, the only trouble is it’s just food. Certainly sounds like Ronnie is doing all right. Hope he is as well and healthy as you say. As for Judy, she had those <? experiences> before and nothing has happened. How dogs must have their day it seems. Glad you got to see "Private Hargrove." I wonder what that guy would have done over here. It was nice of Murray and Marge to take you and include a dinner. Hope he got the storm windows up for you. They certainly should be up by this time. The $8 gas fill seems about right for Sept. Sending Christmas cards this year will page 3 have to be entirely your worry I’m afraid. Send one each to my family - you know their addresses. If not, they are in that box of Christmas cards or some box in the attic. The others, as far as I am concern will just have to realize that there is a war on and I am in it. Of course there are a few that I would like to send to but if I start with one there will be no end so just won’t start. And the same goes for the gifts. I am glad you got Ronnie the blocks. I’ll bet by now he knows the alphabet forwards and backwards. Boy do I wish I was there to help teach him. I’d like to help fix up a couple rooms too. Also do something about seeing that there was a need for a second room. Glad you had Mrs. Ivers over for dinner. I wrote Al again but have only received the one V-mail from him. I wonder where he is now also Dick. I will look Dick up across the channel, I guess. Sounds like Al is getting about the same deal I’m getting here. Was kind of cute what Ronnie said. page 4 about the show. Guess he takes after his ole man a little at that. 6:15 p.m. And one 5 lb package later. Now that really makes a big day for me, doesn’t it? This package was the one with the very fine soap, can with fruit cake, candy, and the packages of gum all in excellent condition and very welcome indeed. The candy was all gone before it went around[,] also a good part of the gum. Haven’t started on the fruit cake yet. But it looks good and I know what it’s going to taste like. Think I’ll save that for a couple days. Oh yes[,] this was the Christmas package from my little Ronnie. He sure knows what Daddy likes. This certainly is and has been a mixed up year. Here I am four thousand miles from home, having Christmas in Oct. and doing many other things I can’t tell you about that I never thought I’d ever be doing. Well such is life and page 5 When I do get back hope I’ll be richer for my experiences, not necessarily from mercenary standpoint but from traveling, what I have seen, etc. As for a readjustment after this is all over, no doubt there will have to be one to a certain degree bBut I don’t believe it will be so drastic as you apparently are thinking. If we were much younger, say in our early twenties, and as yet not settled down to some sort of routine[,] it might be as you apparently expect. As it is, at least from my standpoint down to some sort of routine, it might be as you apparently expect. As it is, at least from my standpoint, I don’t think this army will change me so much. Of course I still don’t know what all I have to go through before I reach home so can’t say for sure how I will be but one thing I do know[,] I am not going to start worrying about it now. There are bigger things. Censored page 6 at an age where it is only natural for him to grow and change. I fully expect it. As for you guiding him the right way[,] I think you are capable and will do it. And very much in a way that I would want it were I there to help. Just remember one thing[,] always do what you think is right and you will never be far wrong. Between now and the time when I do return, it is up to you to keep things going there as best you can, take care of your and Ronnie’s health and remember that day will come and we can start again where we left off almost a year ago now. Maybe yet the war will be over this year and we can start planning on that big day when I’ll step on board that boat for a one-way trip to Chicago and home. Now back to your letters. I still have the one written Oct. 12th to answer. page 7 G.F.R.S. means ground force replacement service, replacement pool, A.P.O. 129. In other words just a new name for the same thing. I too don’t know just what it all means but guess I soon will. I assume that your guess is as good as any. As for you being able to express yourself better on paper, well why do you think I’m trying to save all your letters? I’ll really have something to hold over your head then. Now won’t I. As for me and my peculiarities, believe you are pretty well versed in most of them. One of the worst, of course, is my habit of keeping things pretty much to myself which has been acquired over the years. That I will try to overcome but don’t expect too much as I have been hat way for a long time and army life isn’t changing that characteristic much. Anyhow time will tell and page 8 it will be an experience similar to one you once told me you preferred to have if you started from scratch when you got married. Remember? Tosti’s letter was rather short and nothing in it that was new. It was still welcome and I’m glad he thought enough to write. He did a nominal amount of griping which was as I had expected. Might do some of those fellows a lot of good if they went through a little of what some of the boys in the Army experience daily. I think they would appreciate what they now have a little more then. Enough for today, my dears, thanks again for the nice Christmas box, and give Ronnie and Mommy an extra big kiss and hug for me and keep your fingers crossed. All my love to you both, also give Eleanor a little of if there’s any left over. Hope she is fully recovered by now. Daddy ...

26 Oct October 26, 1944

Posted at 20:06h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Oct. 26, 1944 Thursday, 11:00 P.M. Noteworthy: Mom gets no word from Dad over many days. Hye, honey, How are you? Where are you? Why haven’t I had a letter since the one dated Oct. 5th, which I rec’d 13 days ago? I have a pretty definite idea that you’re being moved, and I’m terribly worried. I lie in bed at night imagining all kinds of things, and can’t sleep for hours, and when I do I just have bad dreams. This suspense is getting me down. If I were in battle myself it couldn’t be much worse than this waiting and not knowing[;] what’s going on? I’m getting old in a hurry this way - that I know! Today I’ve been pretty busy. First of all I washed clothes, then washed bathrooms and kitchen floors and gave them two coats of wax. Tonight, after Elinor came back from her vacation we were going to have a snack, and our cocoa boiled over and went all over page 2 the floor, ruining my wax job completely. Boy, is that discouraging! Such is life. I also started cleaning the car today. First of all I polished all the chrome on it, then dusted it and now I’m polishing it. Not Simonizing but [using] other wax. Don’t s’pose it’ll look so hot, but at least it’ll be clean and the chrome won’t be rusty. I received a letter from Chuck and Betty today, saying both their daughters are in good health and that June Elaine (the 6 week old one) has stopped crying at night, as she did at first. They also wanted me to come to Rockford for a visit soon, as I still haven’t seen my new niece. I think I’ll go in the next week or two. I’d have gone last weekend but was afraid I might get a letter and I didn’t want to miss it. If you had any idea how I wait and long for those letters you’d never miss a day writing. At least I hope so. I wait all morning until noon for the first mail and then I can’t wait until the afternoon delivery, page 3 and then when there’s still no letter, I just mope around the rest of the day and evening. I can’t relax to read or even to write to all the people to whom I owe letters, so I just keep on working, sewing or something. That keeps me occupied until I write to you again. I weighed Ronnie tonight and he now weighs 31 lbs, which is pretty good, I think! He sure eats 3 square meals a day, so if he doesn’t gain it isn’t his fault. He finishes his meals when I do now, so that is quite a change from the way he was after I went to Florida. He also keeps asking for 2nd and 3rd helpings, and I’m sure he eats more than I do, especially now as I don’t have a very good appetite anyway. Do you still have a cold, Darling? I’m one of your last letters you mentioned having one, and I keep wondering, too, if you’re ill and in the hospital there and unable to write, that possibly being why page 4 I haven’t heard from you. I finally managed to get 5 lbs of sugar and 1/2 lb. of butter. Isn’t that something? Just got the sugar in time as I was almost out of it. I got it through Mrs. Dixon at her grocery. (Kroger’s store) Altho I trade quite a lot at Bernie’s it seems they don’t go out of their way getting me anything. Maybe he doesn’t think I spend enough on groceries. It’s now 11:45, so guess I’d better get to bed and give the sandman another trial at putting me to sleep. I bought a new nightgown the other day, it’s cotton flannel with high neck, long sleeves. I couldn’t attract the opposite sex in it if I paraded in it all day. It’s so nice and warm tho that I’m not worrying how it looks. I’ll save my fancy gowns until after the war. mmmm? I hope you come home on a real cold night, so you can keep me warm. All our love, honey, Mom and Ronnie ...

27 Oct October 27, 1944

Posted at 14:18h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler October 27, 1944, Friday 10:05 P.M. Noteworthy: Mom receives a letter, finally, touching. Reports of solders with their rear cut off. Hye, Honey, At long last (after 13 days lapse) I received three letters from you dated Oct 6, 9, and 10th. Oh, you don’t know how relieved I am! First thing Elinor came home today she said, "You’ve heard from Wes!" I asked how she knew and she said, "It’s the first time I’ve seen a big smile on your face for almost two weeks!" I didn’t realize I had looked that unhappy, but guess I couldn’t help it. I also got a long letter from my old girlfriend, from San Diego. She’s the one I told you about whose husband was a Lieutenant (J.G.) in the Navy at the time you left. She says he’s now a full-fledged Lieutenant and third in command of his ship and is Gunney officer at the 11th Naval District and also the athletic officer. She says they are treated royally now and the page 2 Captain’s barge takes them out to the ship for dinner, movies, dances, etc. He’s in port at San Diego now, but she doesn’t know for how long. She sent me his and her picture and also a photo of their 5 year-old son, who is mascot of the ship’s ball team. The Jap fleet seems to be going two pieces. Sure would be funny if the Jap end of the war would end before the German. Altho of course there are thousands of islands in the Pacific, and the Yanks have a long way to go. But I just heard over the air that the Philippine battles have caused the Jap fleet to be reduced to half of its maximum strength and that it’s believed Japan may soon sue for a easy place, but I hope they don’t get it. They don’t deserve an easy piece, and that’s for sure. Elinor just told me that while she was home over the week-end a friend of hers was on furlough from the Pacific area and he said that he, himself had actually page 3 seen American dead soldiers with their "rear" cut off, that the Japs had admitted eating the flesh because they were so poorly fed. He says no one believes it, but he swears it’s the God’s truth and that he had seen it and that Jap prisoners had admitted it. I can’t imagine anyone getting that hungry, but I guess I’ve never had a chance to be that hungry, or ever want to be. You requested Barbasol and Ipana toothpaste and aspirin in one of your letters, so I’m sending it with some other things tomorrow or Monday. One of your Xmas pkgs contains the first 2 items, but I’ll send more anyway. As for your powders you should have received them as I sent some over a month ago, which was the day after you first requested them. I’ll get some more tho, just in case they were lost on the way. I sent them 1st class mail, so it’s funny you didn’t get them. page 4 I’m glad you got to London, and your description of it was very interesting. Only I wish you’d keep away from there if the bombs are still flying around. Now I’m worried, again. Dewey spoke at the stadium here Wednesday night. Ben Campbell was about to tune him in when I got up and left last Wednesday. He says he’s coming over before election and convert Elinor and me. Elinor has already voted by absentee ballot, so it’s too late in her case. Roosevelt is speaking at Soldier’s Field tomorrow night. Too bad I can’t go. I hope to take in a movie with Elinor. I called Virginia to take care of Ronnie, and she said she would, but in an hour she called back and said her grandfather was injured today and she and her folks are going out of town to see him as he’s not expected to live. Later Mrs. Page said she was going to be home tomorrow night and said she’d look in page 5 on Ronnie if we wanted to go out, which is pretty nice and also saves me a dollar. If nothing happens between now and next month I hope to be able to put the November allotment in the bank. Won’t that be something? Of course I’ll still only be $30.00 ahead, as I got $50.00 for my typewriter and having spent it, I’ve been trying to gain it back as I don’t feel I should be spending that money, because I want another after the war. I want to try to save a few dollars now, so I won’t have to draw money out of our previous savings to pay taxes, insurance, etc., next year. I sincerely hope that after this war is over, we’ll still have at least as much as we had before you left. That in itself will be an accomplishment, I think, as that will be a lot better or more than most people will have when this is over. page 6 I was telling Ronnie the other day that pretty soon Daddy would be back and would play with Ronnie. Today, Ronnie was looking at your picture and said, "Daddy be back after a while?" Pretty soon, Mommy? I said "Yes, Ronnie, pretty soon - I hope." When Mrs. Dixon stopped in this afternoon he went to the bedroom and got one of your pictures and said, "Mrs. Dixon Daddy be back after awhile, pretty soon - I hope." It sounded so funny, and yet I couldn’t help but almost cry at the same time. Tonight at the supper table I gave Ronnie some celery (with leaves and all). He broke off the leafy part and laid it on my plate and said, "I don’t like the tree, that’s no good." Elinor and I just about choked laughing so hard. He really puts over some good ones, every once in a while. It’s a shame you have to miss all this, as he talks like a house page 7 afire now. Speaking of fire, I had the scare of my life last Wednesday noon. I took some milk cartons and waste paper out by the alley on the edge of the empty lot next to our house and lit it with a match. It was a bit windy and the weeds very dry and before I knew it the fire was spreading like mad. Altho I had lit the paper at least 20 ft away from the fence it was getting too close to the fence and I was afraid it would burn, so I dragged the hose out and went to town on it. It finally died near the fence but spread so that about half of the vacant lots are cleared of weeds and smoke galore. I had the car parked in the drive and had to move it, it was getting so close. It finally died out, but I sure was scared while it lasted. I kept imagining it spreading to nearby houses and the whole block aflame. I don’t want to page 8 ever get that frightened again Now that I got these three letters today perhaps I’ll sleep tonight. Can’t keep this insomnia up forever, or it will be tragic. I ironed all day today and I am very tired. Murray and Marge stopped in tonite for an hour. Murray had a chance to manage a news agency down in Asheville N.C., but at the time he didn’t think it was such a big hot idea and the pay wasn’t too good. This offer was made to him by the circulation Mgr. of the Herald-American last Sat. night. By Monday, Murray decided he’d go down and take a look at it, but the job had already been filled by a man from Pittsburgh. Well, guess I’ll go to bed now, as it’s 11:30, and according to my husband I should go to bed early. Sweet dreams, darling, and Love and kisses, Mom and Ronnie P.S. How many 5 lb. Pkgs. have you received by now. I’m still waiting every night, so it must be my letters are lost. ...

27 Oct October 27, 1944

Posted at 19:53h in Letters

letter-card from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Oct. 27, 1944 [Ed.] Enclosed is a "letter-card" showing 8 views of London from the 1930’s (?) Victoria Embarkment House of Parliament Buckingham Palace Trafalgar Square and St. Martin’s-in-the-Fields Tower of London Westminster Abbey The Pool of London and Tower Bridge St. Paul’s Cathedral And a restaurant menu from "Table d’Hote" ...

27 Oct October 27, 1944

Posted at 19:06h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Offshore France, Friday, 8.30 p.m. October 27, 1944 Friday, 8:30 p.m. Noteworthy: Dad describes his fellow solders in some detail as they are about to embark onto French soil and possibly battle. He is also very introspective about that himself; could he have avoided service? And why he didn’t. Dear Alice and Ronnie, By this time you know I have quit England for good I hope and am now in France - well a couple miles offshore. It’s been a beautiful day but windy and that’s the reason why I’m not on shore this minute. They claim the water is too rough for a small boat to come alongside to take us off. That suits me because the water looks and is plenty cold. We are going to have to go ashore soon though as this ship is not equipped for so many men for long periods of time. It’s quite crowded on board but not too uncomfortable. So far the trip over has been very uneventful and not too interesting. Most of the trip over was made in darkness and fog so couldn’t see much. The French shore certainly doesn’t look very imposing from this vantage point but, of course one can’t tell much about something two miles away. The sailors on board say there was plenty page 2 action here D-Day and for many days after. In fact this ship was in on it and bears the marks of battle in many places. It’s an English ship and the English sailors have many interesting tales to tell. They have really been around. They served us the first fried eggs last nite I have had since leaving home. It tasted almost as good as a steak. The food is good on board but not so much of it. Rations are pretty scarce, I guess. I didn’t get seasick this time but came very close to it this morning. And my crisis has apparently passed though and I don’t think I’ll get sick now. No doubt you are wondering what I have been thinking about now that I am so near France and the possibility of being shoved into the fray at any time has been increased 100%. Frankly, I have purposely refrained as much as possible from thinking about it. Instead, I have page 3 studied the faces and characteristics of the boys on board here with me. It is interesting to watch the different reactions of different individuals at times such as this. Of course we are still far away from any danger but the possibilities are still here and we are all pretty much keyed up. Some show it in their manner of playing cards, writing letters home, by just standing and watching something that isn’t there, some want to see everything that goes on, others are not interested, others keep looking at pictures of those who they love, others talk of home, some just lie around and try to sleep all the time, we have a piano on board [and] it is surrounded by singers and music lovers, we also have a radio, news always draws a big crowd, and many just do nothing. As for me, I guess I am a bit abnormal. I do a little of everything. page 4 I like to hear the news, music, play poker and bridge, watch the sights and do a little of most everything else except talk, especially about personal things, that seems to be what I am worst at. I enjoy talking to the sailors and seem to be pretty adept at drawing them out. Of course these Limeys are none too backwards when it comes to telling of their past deeds. Not that they don’t deserve all credit they maybe infer that they are due. They do have some very interesting things to talk about. Then of course at times I get to thinking about home and you and what we might have done and the many things we can do when I get home. Then I think of little Ronnie and how much I would like to be there with both of you right now. I wonder what kind of a man he is going to grow up to be and if he will ever have to do the same things his Daddy is doing now someday. page 5 Heaven forbid that that ever happens. Then sometimes I wonder about the very few who managed in one way or another to miss this little boat ride. I wonder at times if maybe I had employed some of their tactics if I too couldn’t have missed this boat. I guess in the final analysis I decided it wouldn’t pay in the long run because here I am and I know I have more real reasons for staying behind than some of them. Anyhow I still believe that if one continues to do what he thinks is right in the end everything will eventually turn out for the best. Anyhow that’s what I still believe and until proven wrong will string along with that belief. That reminds me, you had better send another box of powders. I don’t need them yet but C and K rations mean taking more powders and I know I will be eating a lot of C and K rations page 6 now. And by the time the next box catches up with me the first box will probably be all gone. Well my dears I don’t know when I’ll get a chance to mail this or how much of it the sensor will allow to get through to you, I hope it all, but anyhow I have written to you and even though you only get parts of it[,] it will still be a letter and that’s for better than none. I know I was very grateful when I got those seven letters and 5 lb box the day before leaving England. Don’t suppose I’ll get any mail now for some time. It seems a move over here always means at least two or three weeks delay when it comes to our mail. So until the next time I’ll be thinking very much of both of you and wishing that this war all over so I could go home. I miss you both and love you all the more, Daddy ...

29 Oct October 29, 1944

Posted at 19:48h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice F. [E.] Shonkwiler France October 29, 1944 Sunday 2:30 p.m. Cherbourg Peninsula. Noteworthy: Dad lands on the French coast, describes conditions and comments on D-day, hopes the war ends soon. Pre-script. Don’t forget to send me another box of powders. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Finally got off board yesterday and walked to where I now am with full field pack and horseshoe roll through mud -- such mud I have never seen before. I guess it’s a couple three miles here from the beach. The beach consists of about 20 feet of sand just above sea level[,] then there is a cliff at least fifty feet high. That’s where the boys landed D-Day and how they ever got past that beach is beyond me. I had plenty trouble climbing the cliff with a pack without opposition. After sloughing through mud for a couple hours I spent the night in a pup tent in more mud and one spam sandwich to keep me warm. I’ve known for some time that war is hell but before it was only from hearsay[,] now I know first hand and page 2 I still have the worst to experience. Compared to this England is heaven and the states -- well the states are too good to even think about. Since leaving England I’ve had make-shift rations[,] cold - hot water to drink and mud. Withstanding all this my spirits are pretty high and I am not faring too badly. Got my barracks bag and blankets today so hope to sleep tonite. And since I’m not doing anything[,] do not require much food. Am still a long ways from the front lines in combat so not worrying too much along those lines. My one hope is that the end will come soon. Don’t expect mail as regularly now as before because even should I get a chance to write there is a good possibility that it may be held up here for one reason or another. Don’t let that stop your writing though because now more than ever before your letters will be about the most important thing I can get. Don’t know when I will start receiving mail again but it surely page 3 will catch up someday. Have had very little opportunity to see any of France. But what little country I’ve seen like England is disappointing. The war has not done as much damage here to property as I had expected and if it weren’t for the foxholes and the bombed out farmhouses here and there one would hardly know that there had been some real fighting going on here not so long ago. Of course one could tell that something had happened on the beach and all the activity around here definitely indicates that there is a war on. I’m still with many of my buddies from Blanding and just missed getting a chance to have Rogers bunk with me again. As it is, I have a very nice fellow named Bruce Smith and we get along swell. Rogers is four or five tents away. Of course this is not like bivouac - no just ten times worse. There is much more I would like to say but am afraid I’ve already said too much and since my fingers are getting pretty cold[,] think I’ll just say I love you both and miss you very much, Daddy ...

30 Oct October 30, 1944

Posted at 20:08h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler October 30, 1944 Monday, 4:00 P.M. Hye, honey, Thought I’d write now, as I’m going to the post office in a few minutes to mail you another 5 lb. request pkg. This time it contains Barbasol, Ipana toothpaste and aspirin (although I couldn’t get Bayer in the 100 tablet size, hope these will serve the same purpose). Even Ipana toothpaste is hard to get, as I went to 2 stores before I got it. I also put some candy in the box, altho I couldn’t get very much in, as we’re allowed only 5 lbs. Well someday you’ll get all the boxes I’ve sent (15 in all, or is it 16 with this one?) and you’ll have a big feast. I suppose some of the things will spoil, but maybe not. I got two letters from you today, one dated Oct. 12th, and the other the 19th, so that makes a 7 day lapse, but I suppose I’ll get them later. I imagine one reason you’re getting such poor service in your mail, is page 2 the fact that it’s so close to Christmas and the post office is rushed with all the Christmas boxes etc. I’m glad to hear you’re finally getting some of your mail, anyway, even if it is old stuff. Can’t say it’s my fault as I’m still writing every day and have been since you left with the exception of probably once a month, and that’s pretty good, I’d say! 4:30 P.M. Mrs. Dixon just stopped in so I was delayed a bit, but Elinor isn’t here yet, anyway, so I can’t leave until she comes as Ronnie is still in bed. About noon today Elinor’s girlfriend, Sue, from Pullman called and asked if she could come over for lunch as she is on vacation and had an hour to kill before she was due at the dentist’s office. She brought a quart of chop suey, so we ate that and some pie and coffee, then I took her back to 111th page 3 and Michigan to keep her appointment. While there I bought your aspirin, toothpaste, etc., so didn’t make the trip in vain. Seems I had planned to do so much today, but got very little of it done between visitors. As long as I’m writing you now, I’ll have all evening to sew on my jumper and do some mending. Doesn’t it sound exciting? Almost forgot the Pullman dance was last Saturday, but we didn’t attend, so you see I’m just an ideal stay-at-home wife. Oh well, I’ll make up for it when you come back. We’ll have dinner out twice a week, and go dancing and to movies galore. (Oh well, I can dream, can’t I? Of course it will be up to you to suggest doing all these things, as I’ll never ask you to take me out. That would be to hum-drum and not like I want my marriage to be - I hope!) Gladys called just called and wanted me and page 4 Ronnie to come out next weekend, and I said I would. She doesn’t have to work on Saturdays so I’ll probably go out Sat. morning. I’ll take the South Shore, as I don’t have enough gas to go by car, and anyway what I do have I think, I’ll use if I go to Rockford soon. Just think Chuck’s baby is about 7 weeks old and I haven’t seen it yet. I still haven’t heard anything from Claude and Joe since I sent them that baby gift, but Gladys said she hasn’t heard anything either, and she sent them a gift, too. Oh well, maybe people don’t send "thank you" notes anymore. By the way, please send a list of people and children that I should give Christmas cards and gifts to, as that would be a big help. Well, bye, Darling, and remember we’ll keep on waiting for you and loving you until you return, so don’t worry on that score. Bye, love, Mom and Ronnie P.S. Gladys says she just got a letter last Friday from you dated Sept. 30th, so it took 4 weeks which isn’t good either. ...

31 Oct October 31, 1944

Posted at 19:03h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler France October 31, 1944 Tues. 11 A.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Still where we first landed three days ago, within a couple hours walking distance of the beach. Don’t think I’ll ever get used to this kind of life, but after a time one acclimates oneself to his hardships and surroundings and gets along. Just to give you an example in a small way of what this is like, I will venture to tell you that today, since landing, the army has fed me six spam and hardtack sandwiches, one cup of cocoa, one cup of coffee, and about one cup of fruit juices altogether. And we’ve had to go out and page 2 swipe most of those rations, or we wouldn’t have had that. Roger and I spent most of last evening and an hour or two this morning cooking up some old apples we found and making some apple sauce. We had a chocolate bar so we made some hot chocolate. Along with our spam sandwich we have just finished eating the best breakfast we have had for a week. Of course there has been the usual amount of mud <?througher> [thrown] in for dessert but one doesn’t count that anymore just takes it for granted. It has rained every day so far. Rain in these damn European countries seems to come as second nature. Have managed to stay warm at nite but after lying on the ground for 12 to 14 hrs at page 3 a stretch the ground gets plenty hard - certainly not like that nice bed you are sleeping in. We crawl in at dark and get up after daylight and then we are in here - such as now - any time during the day it rains. One learns to love these damn pup tents. With all your baggage, gun and equipment crowded in along with two men, it allows just enough room to lie down. At that, from what I hear, I <? elfar> rather stay here for the duration than move up to where those other boys are pounding away at the Jerry’s. Haven’t heard a bit of news, seen a newspaper or anything. As far as I know the war is over. Guess it isn’t though because we certainly would have heard if that had happened. Surprisingly enough the fellows spirits including page 4 my own are still very high[.] And last night I had a very pleasant dream all about me coming home and finding you and Ronnie both in excellent health and giving me a very warm welcome. May that dream come true soon. Well my dears, my feet are getting so cold I am going to have to get up and go seek a fire to warm up a bit. So far we’ve only been allowed to write one letter a day so if any of the people back there I owe letters to get impatient tell them to hold on I’ll catch up someday. In the meantime keep them coming this way. I’m not getting them but someday they’ll catch up and then I’ll really have a field day. Take good care of our little Ronnie and also yourself and just be sure that you carry ouit and be ready to fulfill your part of my dreams. Love Daddy ...

01 Nov November 1, 1944

Posted at 20:11h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Nov. 1, 1944 Wednesday, 9:40 P.M. Hello, honey, Here I am dinner over, dishes, done, Ronnie had his bath, and has been in bed for an hour and sound asleep - I hope! I’ve been listening to your friend Dewey, but still can’t seem to understand his conflicting speeches. Seems all he does is "smear" and repeats the same thing every time he speaks. I didn’t write last night as Marge and I went to cooking school and after that she asked me to come up to the apt and she and Murray and I had ice cream, cookies and coffee. Anyway by the time I got home it was midnight, and as you have given me strict instructions to go to bed early, I did. Night before last after I had written your letter, Ernest Hayes and a Dr. Schyl (Schuyl?, Slpile?), who claims an acquaintance or friendship with you[,] page 2 <?He> was visiting at the Hayes[es], and has a 4 yr old son. Said he’s from Missouri and went to U of Chicago. He is also a Democrat and told me to tell you this is a free country and you couldn’t dictate my vote. (So there, too!) He also said that is what we’re fighting for, and also said he didn’t think you were the type who would browbeat your wife. Aha! A man after my own heart, that Dr. Sckyl (or whatever his name was). Just about this time I think I must have met all of the Hayes’ friends, and every time they either ask me to come over, or they bring them here. This Dr. asked me to say "hello" to you and hopes you will be home soon etc. I worked on my jumper yesterday and today, and just as I was trying it on, Mrs. Hayes stopped in and asked about you, etc. and mentioned that page 3 she was bring[ing] the material for a skirt (that Mary bought for Joan) to a dressmaker, as she didn’t know how to make it. She was hinting, I s’pose, that I should make it, but I just didn’t catch on. I finished my jumper today, and it looks pretty nice. It’s a small black and white check, and I’m wearing it with a white long-sleeved blouse. I look very young in it. I can hear you laughing. Marge is making one just like it, altho I doubt if we’ll be wearing them to the same places, so it’s O.K., I guess. You see I had 2 pcs. of material (this is the material Vy sent me from Rockford last spring and which I used the brown and white check to make my suit.) in the black and white, so I needed only half of it, I’m selling 1/2 of it to Marge. Don’t know how much to charge her for it, as it cost me only $1.00 per yd., but retail it is $4.98 per yard. Some page 4 problem, isn’t it? [I] Don’t imagine all this interests you, but you want letters, so I’m trying to comply even without much to write about. At supper last night, Ronnie said, "Elinor! Mommie! I have to go to toilet - know that?" Elinor said, "No, we didn’t know that!" He replied, "Well, I gotta go!" It was so funny we almost split our sides laughing. After saying this he got down from his chair and headed for the bathroom saying, "I’ll be back to eat my dinner." Tonight he kissed your big picture on the mantel, and said, "Good night, Daddy, thank you for the picture books!" Then he scrambled out of my arms[,] ran for the table, and out of 1/2 dozen picture books[,] picked out the ones you sent from England, then hurried back to the fireplace, page 5 looked up at your photo, and said, "Thank you, Daddy, for the two picture books." and held them up for you to see. This morning at breakfast he said, "Daddy be back after awhile to play with Ronnie’s train?" How would you answer that one? Gene Gallacini came over this morning and stayed for an hour talking to Ronnie and me too, of course. I asked him if he wanted any money, and he said "no," as he had $11.21 dividend check for me to sign, which would pay me up to Dec. 1st. Of course I got $1.55 in cash, too, as I paid two payments. He also told me his dad (who is 80 yrs. old) is making some toy tanks and carving them out of wood by hand. Gene said he’d give Ronnie one for Xmas. Do you think I page 6 [should] get something for his daughter or not? He said he got a letter from you the other day. He said he had written you a letter some time ago, which you evidently hadn’t received. He also said he wrote another a couple days ago. Murray let me read the letter he got from you Sept. 30th, last night. Still talking about the women - oh me! (And also their "prices.") Such talk from a married man. Murray said he understood you spent 10 lbs [sterling] in London. Is that right? Better not be! Well, I got myself a pair of black shoes the other night (and no shoe stamp, either). You see Elinor had a nice pair of black pumps that she couldn’t wear, as they hurt her feet, so she traded them for a pair of page 7 my old work slacks. I think I got the best of the bargain, as my slacks were sort of worn at the knee. Now I can use my new shoe stamp for some brown low heeled shoes, which I need badly for shopping etc. I’m going to buy them tomorrow night, as Elinor and I are going shopping on the Avenue then. Ronnie, too, of course! I ordered 2 more boxes of your powders and got them today. I sent you one box today, first class mail, and will send the other later. Today’s box is the second box<?,> I’ve sent. The last box I sent the day after you requested them which was in August, I believe. Hope you get the one I sent today. I’m enclosing a clipping concerning "duodenal ulcers," which is the type you have, isn’t it? Now take heed! Fibrous foods are such page 8 things as whole grain cereals, dark bread (rye, whole wheat etc.) beans, lettuce, celery, radishes, apples (with peelings on) and also fresh fruits and juices and tomatoes. Of course the fruits and juices aren’t fibrous, but they are acid and they’re not good for you either. Now take care of yourself or your ulcers will turn into cancer, and that is incurable you know. I’m taking cod liver oil now with Ronnie, so if you have a chubby wife when you get home, you’ll know the reason. I weigh 111 [lbs] now. I still can’t get that film for you. In fact Dixon’s can’t even get movie film anymore, at least Madsens haven’t had either movie or other film since August. I’ll keep trying though. Good night, honey, and lots and lots of love from Mommie, Ronnie (and Elinor?) Still waiting for the day I can meet you in the N. Y. harbor. Goodnite, love, Mom [P.S.] I’m sending this regular mail, also the one I wrote Oct. 30th. Please compare it with my airmail letters. ...

06 Nov November 6, 1944

Posted at 20:13h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Nov. 6, 1944 Monday 10:15 P.M. Dearest Wes, I’m writing this while listening to your friend on the air. I just heard my friend, previously. Can’t say I’m not giving them both a chance to say their piece! I note that through Gov Green’s influence, soldier’s votes will not count if received after the polls close November 7. Other states have extended soldier’s votes deadline as far as November 21st and even to December 5th. That, and your friends refusing to let the merchant marine vote at all and making it difficult for all servicemen to vote in the state of New York, certainly shows that the Republicans are afraid of servicemen’s votes for some reason. Oh well, time will tell the story. Spent this morning repairing Ronnie’s snowsuit, so he’ll be able to wear it again this year. I tried. page 2 it on him, and it just fits him now. I’m certainly glad I bought it large last year. His old blue gabardine snowsuit that we bought in Michigan last September comes to his knees instead of his ankles. I wish I could think of some way to make it larger, so he can wear it to play in this year. Did I tell you that our son weighs 31 lbs now? He’s quite a armful. I told you in yesterday’s letter that I was afraid Ronnie and I might have colds because everyone at Gladys’ has had them. Well, so far we’re still in good health and Ronnie is just as ornery as ever. I’m certainly glad. Received 2 letters from my honey today, but still not later than the Oct. 19th letter I received a week ago. The ones I got today were dated Oct. 15th and 16th. Glad to get them tho. You mentioned page 3 getting another box from me. Is this only the second 5 lb. box you’ve received? I’m sorry that part of it was spoiled, but of course I had no idea it would take 2 or 3 months to get to you, so I guess it’s really not my fault, at that. I hate to think what some of the pkgs will be like, as I guess I sent cookies, chocolates etc., in them, too. Wish I had listed the contents of each pkg. I sent, so that I’d know what it was that spoiled and I wouldn’t send it again. Oh well, if you get all of the pkg. I’ve sent (16 5 lb. pkgs. in all) I’m sure you’ll be able to salvage something worthwhile - I hope! You asked again for powders. I’ve sent two separate boxes by 1st class mail and also some in Xmas pkg. I baked a <? burnt> sugar cake today. It turned out very good, too. Too bad you can’t have a big piece of it and page 4 a big glass of milk with me in a few minutes. I’d sure love to have you here with me. You know I haven’t heard a thing from Oralee as yet, altho it’s over 5 weeks since she left. Can’t understand it, as she promised to write. Maybe Fred’s keeping her too busy! Could be! Think I’ll call her mother-in-law one of these days and find out what’s happening to her. Haven’t heard from Mrs. Evers since she was here for dinner, nor have I heard from Sally for a while, altho she promised me an invitation to lunch someday at her home. I may go home next week end as Elinor is going home for her cyst operation next week. June Elaine will be 2 months old the 12th and I still haven’t seen her. I think I’ll do my Christmas shopping while I’m there too. Well, goodnite, sweetheart, and with all my love and Ronnie’s too. Bye, Mom and Ronnie ...

08 Nov November 8, 1944

Posted at 17:20h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler November 8, 1945 Wed. 8:45 P.M. My Darling, Two days and no letter from Daddy. Got a phone bill and electric bill, but that won’t serve the purpose at all. It’s been raining all day and it’s still raining tonight, so it’s pretty dreary. I ironed part of my wash today and read a little and entertained Ronnie a little and pretty soon the whole day is gone. Ronnie asked me at breakfast today if Daddy would be back after a while to play with Ronnie’s marbles. He got 3 marbles while at Gladys’ house and I’ve led a hectic life ever since keeping track of them for him. Seems they always get under chairs, davenports, chests etc. and I have to crawl under to get them for him. Do you remember when he had that little glass marble when we had page 2 him downtown with us and he kept dropping it all the time and we’d have to go get it for him every time. It seems so long ago. I remember now, it was the day I adopted Ronnie legally. Elinor isn’t having her operation until Thanksgiving week, so guess she’ll have to be alone when I go to Rockford next week. Not only that, but I’ll be alone when she’s gone, and she may be gone a couple of weeks or more. I’m sort of frightened to be alone, as the Pages are seldom home and don’t usually get in until after midnight. I s’pose I’ll survive, tho. Gladys asked me to come out there for Christmas. I asked her to come here, but she said she had to have dinner for Dick’s relatives and she thinks Les and Ellen may be home, as he hopes to get a furlough. He’s s’posed to serve page 3 as cadre for a period of 6 months at Blanding. By the way I heard Jack Teagarden’s orchestra broadcast from Blanding tonite. I wish you were still there and that I could hop a train and spend Christmas there with you, honey. I’m going down to the Loop tomorrow on a Christmas shopping tour, and Edith offered to take care of Ronnie, so I should really get something done. It’s pretty hard to take Ronnie downtown because unless he’s crossing a street he won’t hold my hand anymore. He says, "I want to walk by myself, Mommie." And that will never do in the crowds downtown. In fact he wants to do everything by himself now and at times it gets exasperating. If I help him up the stairs or put him on a chair, he’ll walk all the way back downstairs and start over by himself, or get off the chair page 4 and get up by himself again. When I’m in a hurry and he decides he wants to put on his own shoes and socks and takes hours doing it. [that’s frustrating]. When I have lots of time, it’s O.K. and I want him to learn, but sometimes he gives up and comes over and says, "You help me, Mommie!" He’s just the age where he wants to do everything, but as yet not quite able to. I guess we all did the same thing and it’s the only way to learn to do things. Well, guess Roosevelt is in again. Also understand a vast majority of soldiers’ votes were for him, contrary to your opinion. Mrs. DeYoung called this morning and invited me to a luncheon next Wed., but I refused, as I’m going to be in Rockford then. Edith also called and invited me to a Book Review Fri. night, but told her I’d be busy packing, etc. She never gives up. Well goodnite, Sweetheart, and all our Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

08 Nov November 8, 1944

Posted at 17:22h in Letters

Card from: Mrs. A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler (Cover page: ring of poisettas) Merry Christmas Darling (Center page) Not just on special days like this, but each day all year through, A loving wish is on my heart, Darling, just for you. Loving thoughts of you are part of all I do each day. Because I love you, Darling, more than words can ever say. Love always, Alyce (over) (Back page) Hye, honey, I’m writing this in a Depart. store in Rockford. I hope you will get this in time for Christmas. Don’t be too blue at Christmas time, but just keep thinking of the Christmases we have yet to share. I probably will be home alone with Ronnie and that will be tough too, but will try to make it a nice Christmas for Ronnie anyway. Bye, Darling, Love, Mom. ...

31 Jul November 12, 1944

Posted at 17:06h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler November 12, 1944 Sunday 11:10 P.M. Dearest Wes, Well guess Ronnie’s spending most of yesterday in bed cured him, as he was fully recovered from his "sniffles" today, - thank goodness! This afternoon he asked us if we’d take him for a ride in the car, and he also wanted to go see a show! Imagined? We gave in, as we’d thought of it anyway, having stayed at home last night. We decided to go to the Beverly, but as the line for tickets was 1 1/2 blocks long, we decided we’d stop at Hynes’ restaurant for a barbeque and coffee. When we came out the line was still longer, and the usher said there would be an hour and 10 minutes wait, so we drove out to the Coral at 95th and Cicero, only to find another long line. By that time it was 4:00 P.M. and we went home, and ate again, then sat around reading until 7:00 P.M. when page 2 I put Ronnie to bed. The Pages had company, so we asked them if they’d look in on Ronnie if we went out for a couple of hours. He was sound asleep within 5 minutes, so we left, and bowled three games at the Rose Bowl. I bowled 103 my first game and even had a strike and a couple of spares. The next game was 79, and the third was 71. Isn’t that terrible? Of course I haven’t bowled at all since you and I bowled almost 2 yrs. ago, so guess it wasn’t too bad. Elinor bowled 179-103-158. Not bad, huh? Next time we’re going on a Sunday morning and take Ronnie with us. I bet he’d like seeing the balls go rolling down the alleys, but maybe we’d have trouble as he’d want to chase them. I forgot! Mrs. Hayes had been over yesterday to find out why I was still home, as she knew I’d planned on going to Rockford. Ronnie was asleep at the time, and I told her he had a slight page 3 cold. Well, just as we got home in the car this afternoon, she and Ernest came over and thinking Ronnie was still sick had brought him a gift (a set of blocks - cardboard with pictures of trains, animals etc. on them). I felt sort of silly, as she probably didn’t believe he had been sick at all. But then again, regardless of what she thinks, I’m still glad Ronnie didn’t get real sick. I guess every time he even looks like he’s getting a cold I put him to bed to prevent it’s coming on. S’pose you’re wondering how Judy is after being hit by the car last night. Well, as far as I can see I can’t see any injuries, and she runs as fast as ever, and runs up and down stairs without any trouble and eats everything she’s fed, so guess she’s O.K. I’m so glad that I can hardly believe it when I see her running around the house as usual. I guess she was pretty lucky page 4 not to suffer any ill effects at all. I’m sitting here on the Davenport, all by myself (Elinore’s in bed and wasn’t hungry) eating a cheese sandwich and a glass of hot malted milk. These evening snacks and my tablespoon of cod liver oil I take along with Ronnie, should fatten me up in no time. I weigh 112 pounds now, and that’s 4 lbs more than I weighed in July. Trouble is if I gain 4 lbs. more, I won’t be able to wear my old clothes and that will be tragic! Maybe I should start dieting now. By the way how much do you think I should weigh? Or do you like chubby girls? I’m getting silly, so guess I’ll go to bed. Guess I’d better confess I had a coke and a cake and, at the Rose Bowl. Aren’t I a bad girl? We came home at 9:30, so guess I was a pretty good girl at that! Bye, honey, and lots of love and a kiss (to be collected later - I hope!) Mom and Ronnie. P.S. I dreamt of you last night, but in my dream, you were so busy with business you didn’t know I existed! It was awful. And hope that never comes true! ...

13 Nov November 13, 1944

Posted at 20:41h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler November 13, 1944 Monday, 12:30 P.M. Noteworthy: Ronnie’s development at 2 years 9 months. Hello, honey, I’m starting this letter while Ronnie is busy putting all his toys out on the back porch, getting ready to have his lunch. He just came back now, and said, "I put all my trains and toys on the back porch, and after dinny, I take ’em out and play after a while, okay, Mommie?" All this is one breath. You should hear his vocabulary now. In fact, he can even speak a little Swedish and Bohemian. When he repeats some of these foreign words, he laughs and laughs! He thinks it’s a big joke. Well Ronnie says he wants "dinny" now, and he said that he wants soup, milk, banana, egg, orange juice etc. I think he has his meals a little mixed up, don’t you think so? We always get a big kick out of asking him what he wants to eat, because he recites a long, page 2 long list of everything he’s ever had. He’s some guy! I just measured his height, and he’s just 3 feet in his stocking feet, and getting taller every day. He weighs 31 pounds. 9:45 P.M. Well, here I am again! We’ve had quite a change of weather since I started this letter. All day it’s been about 65 degrees and nice and sunshiny. But tonight it’s cold and rainy. I had intended walking over to the Normal Sweet Shop and to mail this letter, but guess I’ll have to wait and have Elinor mail it in the morning. I hope it clears up before morning, as Ronnie and I were leaving for Rockford, and my windshield wiper is out of commission. On my way home from the grocery tonight I passed Hayes’ house and Edith called to me, saying she’d rec’d a letter from you, and let me read it. It was written Oct. 21st. I also rec’d page 3 one from you today dated Oct. 23rd. Of course as you were still in England when you wrote this, and I had received one written Oct. 29th (in France) last Saturday, I’m still anxious to get one later than that to see where you are now. Elinor is forwarding my letters to Rockford while I’m there. Bobby was here tonight playing with Ronnie and his trains. Elinor was refereeing while I prepared dinner. Sometimes we both had to referee. Ronnie goes wild when Bobby even touches his precious trains. I’ve never seen any child quite as daffy about trains. You should see him play trains morning, night, and noon. Whether he has blocks, cards, or anything, he still pretends it’s a train. (An engineer in the Shonkwiler family!) I’m getting sleepy, and I still have to take a bath and get some page 4 sleep so that I’ll be fresh as a daisy for my trip in the morning. (If it doesn’t rain.) Good night, Darling, and I hope I’ll dream something nice about my honey, and it might help keep me going. But if I do I s’pose I won’t want to wake up and face reality again. Just remember, darling, if and when you get lonesome, remember that I am too, and maybe it’ll help a little. The song, "I Walk Alone" is my theme song, and hope it is yours. If you haven’t heard it, when you do, note the words, as they express my thoughts perfectly, and think of me, please! Bye, honey, and all my love, and wish you were here with us, Mom and Ronnie ...

15 Nov November 15, 1944

Posted at 21:18h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler November 15th, 1944 Wednesday, 8:30 A.M. My darling, I’m terribly sorry about not getting a letter written last night, but as everyone had gone to bed, I decided I’d better not stay up, but maybe I can write two today. By the time it stopped raining yesterday morning, it was late in the morning, and had almost given up going again. I cleaned house, washed dishes, etc., and it was 1:00 o’clock before Ronnie and I finally got going. After leaving Sycamore[,] traffic on the highway was stopped for over half an hour because a herd of sheep were milling all over the road. The sheep tenders with the help of [a] State Highway Truck finally got them off the road and we were able to pass. I finally got here at 4:00 o’clock, and as I didn’t tell them I was coming, Betty’s sister was here, and it seems I’m cheating page 2 her out of bed, and she has to sleep on the Davenport. I had intended staying over this week-end, but think I’ll go home sooner now. As for Betty’s housekeeping, I’ve given her up, especially now with two babies. When I think of how immaculate my mother kept the place and see the change, now, it gets me! I guess that’s why I’m so glad to get home again. I finally went to the Alpha Club last night after about 3 years absence. This is a club I belonged to while I lived here, and it was nice to see the girls (about 12 of them) after all this time. Some of them were single then, and now have two children, others had one and now have three. Seems as tho they’re racing to see who gets the biggest family. Guess I’m out of the race for the duration, huh? Out of 12 girls at [the] club only two had husbands in the service, and page 3 then they were in this country. I was certainly out of the conversation, as they all talk about their babies, husbands, etc. ( Ronnie is having a big time playing with Patsy, altho he’s pretty selfish about his trains and won’t even let Patsy have even one car). (And he keeps pushing her down all the time). Guess he’s used to playing with the boys. Patsy has curly hair now and is getting cute. I used to think she was sort of homely. The new baby is prettier than Patsy was at the same age. Betty had rabbit for dinner last night, and I called Eleanor Johnson this morning, and she asked me to come over for lunch and stay all day as Jack isn’t going to be home at all today. She’s going to have baked pheasant for lunch, and I’ve never had it before. Rabbit and pheasant in two days. Not bad, huh? page 4 Well, darling, with Betty, her sister, Ronnie, Patsy and June in this living room, I can’t concentrate, so guess I’ll stop, and get dressed to go over to Eleanor’s. Bye, sweetheart, and I love you every minute, and would give anything to have you here. I’m so darn lonesome! All our love, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. Be careful when you get to Paris!!! ...

15 Nov November 15, 1944

Posted at 17:08h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler November 15, 1944 Wednesday 10:00 P.M. Noteworthy: Nov. 29, Dad is still onboard ship. Mom gets philosophical. My Darling, Well, this is my second letter today, and that’s something, isn’t it? Somehow I guess you must rate above everyone and everything! Are you glad? Of course, I’ll have to say that there is someone who is getting all my lovin’ until you get here to share it. Guess who? Jealous? Well you should be ’cause he’s a pretty handsome little guy! (Just like his Daddy!) Did I have you worried for a second? Do you mind? Guess I’m better off than you in that respect, having someone to love both here and over there? He’s my lifesaver, I guess! Since I wrote you this morning, I spent the rest of the day with Elinor and Dickey. Of course Ronnie was along, too. For lunch she had baked pheasant. I’ve never tasted it before, and think I like chicken just as well, altho it was good. This page 2 afternoon before their nap, and also after their nap, Ronnie and Dickey got along perfectly. I had brought Ronnie’s trains and elephant along, and they both shared their toys like gentlemen. Dickey is about an inch taller than Ronnie, but weighs only 32, and Ronnie weighs 31. Of course Dickey is a day younger. After their nap we went to Bishop’s Cafeteria to eat and took the kids along. This is the cafeteria where you and I ate, and they have wonderful food and reasonable, as my meal was only 89 cents and consisted of Jell-O salad, beef stew, mashed potatoes, coffee, milk, two rolls and jelly and two pats of butter, baked squash, and two small dishes of peach ice cream. Ronnie and I shared my dinner except for milk and dessert and we both had plenty to eat for only 89 cents. Everything was good. While there I ran into my old boss that I had for 8 yrs. when I worked here and his wife and another fellow from our office and wife. [It] Was nice seeing page 3 them, and I was invited to come out to the plant and see all my former co-workers, but doubt if I’ll get the chance. Don’t remember if I told you that I rec’d 2 letters from you just before going to Rockford. They were dated Oct. 27th and 23rd. The one dated the 29th was while you were still on board ship near France. You sounded so blue, that I just sat down and cried, and re-read it today, and cried some more. Guess I’m an awful baby, huh? If I could only do something to make things easier, honey, I certainly would, but all I can do is wait, pray, hope, be desolate at times, try to be cheerful at other times and try to keep my courage up as well as yours until you’re back again. I’ll bet sometimes you think this world is an unfair place, when I am here in apparent comfort and you, because you’re a man have to have all the discomforts. In a way, you’re perfectly right, but in ordinary times women page 4 bear the brunt of a lot of things, too and then they too, think the world’s against them. And sometimes I think that being there helping you finish the job and enjoying your discomforts with you, or rather sharing them, would be preferable to being home, wondering, waiting, worrying, and being alone as far as having a close confident, no one to tell your troubles to, kiss your tears away, etc. Someday darling, I hope that things will be different, and God help me if I don’t appreciate it then, as I think I will now. Also hope that there will be times when we can get away and just relax for weeks if we want to and not have to worry about starving if we do take a vacation. Oh! Such is the stuff dreams are made of. Keep your fingers crossed and someday we’ll [be] the happiest people alive and all our troubles will be -- "little ones?" Goodnite, darling, sleep tight and I hope your dream of a warm welcome comes true. It will! Love, always, Mom and Ronnie P.S. Johnny wants a boy and Elinor’s holding out for a girl. What do you bet? I bet it’s a boy! It’s due in February. Elinor looks grand. ...

17 Nov November 17, 1944

Posted at 23:13h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler November 17, 1944 Friday, 11:30 P.M., Rockford Helllo, Darling, S’pose you’ll never forgive me for not writing you a letter yesterday, but it was late when I got home, and I was so sleepy. Yesterday afternoon I went downtown shopping. Ronnie was taking his nap, so I went alone. I had to buy Chuck a birthday gift as his birthday is Nov. 21st. I bought a pair of brown leather slippers, but I didn’t give them to him because I found that he already had a pair. I also purchased two leather helmets with a piece of fur across the forehead, but the one I bought for Ronnie is too large, and I intended giving one to Bobby for Christmas. They’re darling helmets, and it’s too bad that I’ll have to return the one I got for Ronnie. Last night I called a friend of mine who lives in Lanes Park and after I page 2 put Ronnie to bed, I went out there to <? > evening, as her husband works from 4:00 P.M. until 5:00 A.M. every day, and she’s alone evenings. We gossiped and had sandwiches, cake and coffee during the evening, and before we knew it, it was 12:30 A.M., and by the time I got home, it was after 1:00, and hence, no letter to my honey. I’m a meanie, aren’t I? Today this girl and I planned to drive up to Beloit, Wis., to see Elsie, as she had the afternoon off from her crockery store, but as luck would have it this girl’s husband came home from work this morning with his back and shoulder all twisted up from overstrain, cold or something and she had to stay home and take care of him and put hot water bottles on his back, etc. Well, anyway, I went to Beloit alone, and spent the afternoon with page 3 Elsie, shopping and had lunch and dinner with her. I bought myself a chiffon scarf and got my brother a pair of pajamas for his birthday. I got home at 8:00 tonight. Stopped at Fred and Judy’s to see my Aunt, but no one was home. When I got home, Chuck and Betty went to a show and I was nursemaid tonight for all three children. I called Muriel’s sister and she came over until they came home at 11:00, and that brings us up to now. Does that sound exciting to you? Maybe I should have called on an old flame or two and it would have been more fun, huh? From what you tell me, guess I can’t do that either - darn it! For you, honey, I’ll be a good girl! O.K.? I think I’ll be going home Sunday, but I sure hate to think of that long ride, especially as it’s getting rather cold and dreary now. Last page 4 Tuesday when I came, it was warm, sunshining and a beautiful day for a drive. I kept wondering where you are, as I haven’t had a letter since the one dated Oct. 31st, and that was last Monday. Elinor was going to send my mail if I rec’d any, but so far I haven’t, so guess I’m out of luck. Wonder sometimes if you think of me and get as lonesome as I do. Just seems to get the best of me at times, and then I try to be careful and look at the sunny side again. Elsie’s husband is in the Navy, and his A.P.O. address has been changed from New York to San Francisco, so she thinks he’s in the Pacific somewhere. She had two letters since he left the States, but guess he can’t tell her where he is. We had a gay, old time today talking about our husbands page 5 and sympathizing with one another. I hope to see a show here before I go home, as it may be a long time before I get to see one after I get back home. Eleanor is having her cyst operation next week, and I s’pose she won’t be back for a couple weeks. I think I’ll be pretty lonesome being home alone every night - and scared too, as the Pages never get home until about 1:00 A.M., and week-ends it seems they’re always out of town visiting some relative or another. I s’pose I’ll survive, but it won’t be much fun, I’ll say that much. Judy looks awfully fat lately. Hope it is natural bulk and not because she’s been a naughty girl. Time will tell! She seems to have a terrific appetite, if that means anything. Well, honey, think of me on Thanksgiving Day, as I’ll be spending Page 6 it all by myself. Ronnie and me, of course. Gladys sort of asked me to come out there, but don’t think I’ll go, as I was just there two weeks ago. Edith also asked if I’d be back by Thanksgiving, and I gave a very indefinite answer, as I don’t want her to invite me over there. I’d rather buy a little chicken just for Ronnie and myself, and have our own party. The holidays will be pretty tough to get through all alone, as I’ll be twice as miserable without you then. Well until that wonderful day when Ronnie and I can meet the boat, we’ll love our Daddy by mental telepathy, I guess, and just wait, hope, and pray for the best. All our love and kisses, too Mom and Ronnie. ...

24 Nov November 24, 1944

Posted at 17:13h in Letters

Letter from: Edith Hayes to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Nov. 24, [1944} Day after Thanks[giving} Noteworthy: Ronnie loves trains. Flowers still blooming in Chicago in Nov. Dear Wesley, Were I an artist I’d paint you [a] picture of what I see as I sit here. This darling son of yours on [the] floor with the longest train he can make of Lincoln Building Blocks (Log Cabin). Chuckling with talk about his long long train. His interest in trains beats all I’ve ever seen. When I give him blocks and show him log cabins he could make, he says, "oh no," he would make a train. When Joan and I met him and Alice at [the] station he hardly took time to speak to us. [On account of] Excitement over trains! trains! [I] Handed him toy red metal car - auto - of Joan’s, which looked okay to me. He said, "Oh Aunt Edie, front wheels gone from this car." Smart! Well that is no name for it. It’s a shame[,] the way he loves trains[,] one can’t buy a nice one for him. We have even been reading secondhand for sale ads in the local papers each week trying to locate one. He has just made a new discovery in his set of blocks. Take green roof boards [from his log set] lay in [a] long line for tracks for a train. He is certainly no trouble, plays alone like a little angel. Sat. night the Compeekns Club and husbands had [a] party here [for the] first time in three or four years! Potluck 26# [lb] turkey etc. To [two] group[s,] Ollie and Irene Richmond, 11625 South Wallace, and Walter and Ruby Sampson, 11020 Wallace have been added. Dec 16[th] Leslie and Neil Smith invited us to Xmas sing[ing] at their home. Irene Richmond was elected President Sat nite here page 2 Thankx day, we had roast beef only. We were 12 only. Church group. Dec 1st Erin and I plan to go to Indianapolis[,] his mother [is] 77 that day. Robert [is] 1 year old the 4th. Gladys and Theo may join us there. Hope you receive Ernest’s letter ok. It is an occasion when he writes a letter. Joan sent hers air mail to you. Flowers still blooming Thankx day in Chicago is news. The finest Fall [I] can ever remember. Ernest put up a few storms windows Thankx day morning. But still do not need them at all. Words can’t express how much we appreciated your letters. We read and reread them and send them to Dad and sisters. For no one are we each praying more earnestly than you, that you return home safely because you have a wonderful family to return to who need you. Ronnie and I just discovered [that a] bread board makes a better track than green roof [boards]. Lil DeYoung entertained ladies to [at a] luncheon, was sorry Alice could not accept. Vi Bloom had to move from [her] rented house (on account it was sold) to Union next door to Jothe Cap. [Corp.] 112 and 111 4 houses from corner. Only Aikens and Campbell’s left over there now of [my] old neighbors. Veda and Jessie Smith very thick, she[’s a] detective’s wife. Burton Clemons [is] still in Wash DC - 2 full years and more. Trying hard to locate [a] job here and return home. Fenger lost to Tilden in big game. Betty had bad flare-up of asthma, worse yet, had to take lots of strong dope to revive. Natalie had major operation this month account of tumors. Josie Millspaugh [is] in Evansville Hospital [with] cancer of spine and hip. She [was] my landlady when I taught in Mt Vernon. Remember her? Much love from each, Edith ...

24 Nov November 24, 1944

Posted at 17:12h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Nov. 24, 1944 Friday 10:50 P.M. Darling, This will be short and sweet (I hope!) as I’m practically out of stationery, and with this cold of mine I haven’t got around to buying any more. I didn’t write last night, as I was so tired when I came home from Tosti’s I couldn’t do a letter justice. I came near not going at all as my cold was so miserable when I got up yesterday morning. But after I’d been up for a few hours I felt a little better. Murray picked Ronnie and me up at 3:00 o’clock, and we got there about 3:25, I think. We had a very nice meal, consisting of roast turkey with apple and celery dressing, acorn squash, sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberry jelly and sauce, olives, celery, mince pie (which I don’t care for), or jello, and coffee and hot rolls. It was all very good, and certainly wish I’d been up to par, so that I’d enjoy it more. Just my page 2 luck again! After we finished dishes, there was very little time for talking. altho of course Jim and Murray talked while us gals were busy. Oh, I almost forgot we had a Calvert Reserve whiskey and soda before dinner. I just had one! Aren’t I a good little wife while you’re away? Martha and Marge had one, too, so [I] guess we’re all naughty girls. Martha had rec’d a bottle of Chanel perfume and Jim two decks of German playing cards from Jim’s brother who was in Paris. I did try curing my cold today by staying in bed until 11:00 o’clock, but then I got restless, and got up and started flitting around from cleaning the house up. I washed doors and woodwork, polished furniture, stove and refrigerator. I had an appointment at the beauty shop for 2:30, so asked Edith if she’d keep Ronnie till I got back, and she agreed. I could have bought writing paper then, I page 3 s’pose, but was in such a hurry to get back to Ronnie as she was going to pick Joan up someplace at 5:00 o’clock. She wrote the enclosed letter, and told me to enclose it with mine. I understand Ernest even wrote you the other night and Joan also. Gosh, honey, you’re certainly popular with the Hayes these days. Maybe they have a lot to report. I’m only kidding as I know they mean well, and know that letters mean so much to you, regardless of who they’re from when you’re so far from home. So you’re saving my letters to hold over my head when you return! Well, I think I know what you’re referring to when you say that. Oh, well, you know what they say, it’s a woman’s privilege to change her mind. If things turn out the way we hope, I think our plans will materialize, and that you won’t have to use the letters as page 4 evidence. A girl from Rockford wrote me this week saying she’d be in Chicago Sat. morning at 9:00, and will stay here until Sunday night. I know she expects me to meet her downtown to shop and for dinner, but I doubt if I can with my finances as they are. I may go down in the afternoon with Ronnie, so he can see Santa Claus. Bobby came over and told Ronnie he saw Santa Claus and Ronnie’s been asking me to go ever since - the little dickens. I doubt if he knows what Santa Claus is as yet, tho. I wish Daddy were here, maybe he’d condescend [consent] to play Santa for Ronnie. Wouldn’t that be fun? If you got here for Christmas, even I would believe in Santa Claus, I guess. Well, goodnight, Darling, and take good care of yourself - You belong to us, and sweet dreams, and all our Love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

27 Nov November 27, 1944

Posted at 16:49h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Nov. 27, 1944, 10:45 P.M. Darling, Today has been rather a dreary day, as well as yesterday. It’s been raining a little, and the sun hasn’t been out at all. Because of the weather, I didn’t wash today, and Mrs. Page is washing tomorrow, so I guess I’ll wait until Wed. I took a walk this morning with Ronnie to mail your letter, as the Pages left for La Grange Sat. nite and didn’t return until tonite. You see Mr. Page mails your letters now that Elinor is gone. That accounts for my having to mail your letter myself. Beg your pardon, Ronnie put your letter in the box, in fact, in [and] insists on mailing Daddy’s page 2 letters. The North Shore employees have been on strike up to this morning, and that’s the reason the Pages couldn’t get back last night. They had forgotten about the strike. I don’t know what to do, whether to take Judy to a "vet" or not, as I’m pretty sure she’s "that way." She lies on her back most of the time, now, and she is "big!" Why do all these things happen while you’re away? I won’t know what to do with her or the pups either -- gee whiz! Know what I’ve been doing since Ronnie went to bed at 8:00 o’clock? I’m making stuffed toys, and it’s more fun! I just finished a red and white cat, with ears, tongue and all. I’m making them for my nieces, and may make some for Claude’s and Norma’s youngest. That is if i have page 3 time. Stuffed toys are so expensive. They cost from 2 to 5 dollars just for little, tiny animals. The ones I’m making are a foot high and I’m making them out of scraps of cloth I have on hand, except for cotton filling, which doesn’t amount to much. I have to cut corners somewhere this Christmas, so this is one way. Veda Campbell called this morning and said she was having a few ladies in for [a] luncheon next Wed. and asked if I’d come, too. I said yes, as I had no other plans. I s’pose I’ll have to have some of these luncheons myself if these invitations keep up. I hate to think of it, as I know I’ll be busy from now until Christmas sewing etc. I’m making a lunch cloth and six napkins for Marge for Christmas. I guess that will have to do for Murray too. I have no idea what to get my brother and Betty, as yet or even Ronnie for page 4 that matter. It won’t be a whole lot, I’m sure. I hope to at least have a Christmas tree, but I’m wondering how much they’ll sell for this Christmas. I just can’t seem to get enthused about Christmas this year. I’ve heard the saying it takes a woman to make a home, but I’ve come to the conclusion a man should be around too. Maybe it’s just because I got used to having you around, Could be? Guess I lost my independence when I met you, and now I need you to depend on. If you stay away much longer I’ll be too independent to live with when you get back. I waited for both morning and afternoon mail today, but no luck! Then at 6:00 o’clock Mr. Hahm (lives next door to Dixon’s) came over and lo and behold page 5 he brought a letter from my Sweetheart. It had been put in their mailbox. Sure was a nice surprise [at] that time of day. You mentioned getting 8 letters -- 7 from me. How does it feel to get so many at once. Does it make you love me just a little bit more? You mentioned not liking V-mails. I feel the same way, but [I] did send you a few to see if they were quicker. Will just send air mail after this, as long as the time is the same. [I] See where you’re drinking french champagne. Just think how some people here would like to have some of that imported stuff. Can’t say that I like champagne, altho it’s good in a cocktail. Just be a good boy and don’t drink too much, as I want your stomach to get better, not worse, so you can really do justice to my cooking when you get here. page 6 Marge called tonite and asked how my cold was, as she hadn’t seen or heard from me since Thanksgiving Day. It’s a little better, but I’ve still got it, of course. Can’t seem to shake it. How is your health,now that you’re sleeping in mud, rain, etc. Seems as tho you’d have pneumonia by now. I get so worried sometimes I almost go "berserk." Maybe lots of nice things will happen to us after this war and we’ll consider all these sacrifices worthwhile. I hope so. Well, Darling, now I’m going to bed and pray for your safe return, and that you’ll be with Ronnie and me again very soon. Goodnight, honey, and hope I’ll have a nice dream of you tonight. Love always, Mom and Ronnie ...

28 Nov November 28, 1944

Posted at 18:54h in Letters

Card from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Nov. 1944 Noteworthy: Mom spells her name Alyce. (cover page) Thinking of You Darling At Christmas (Center page) Darling, the times I’ve spent with you Are like a perfect dream come true; And even when we are apart, The thought of you is in my heart To fill my world with happiness That words alone could not express - And all because I know it’s true That you love me and I love you! With all my love, always, Alyce (read inside) (Interior Letter) November 28 -- Tues. 12:30 A.M. My dearest Darling, I imagine it will be almost Christmas time when you receive this, and I know how lonely you will be at this time, as well as I. I only wish I could say or do something that might help you over it, somehow. All I can say is that at Christmas especially, I’ll be thinking of you constantly and wondering where you are and what you are doing. I will try to make it a happy season for Ronnie’s sake, as he shouldn’t be cheated out of being happy, because you and I are feeling blue and lonesome. I’m still working making stuffed toys. So far I’ve made two kittens and have cut out two elephants which I’ll try to work on while I’m at Vida Campbell’s tomorrow. I’m scheduled to go there for a luncheon, and she told me to bring some sewing along. Ronnie, of course, is coming with me and will probably be the center of attention at the party. Murray and Marge were here tonight from 8 o’clock until 10.30. Marge, of course, brought her sewing and asked my advice on a blouse she’s making. Murray took turns listening to the radio and dozing in the living room. About 10, we had toasted cheese and ham sandwiches and some chocolate cake Mrs. Page baked today, and coffee too, of course. Murray weighs 156 pounds now and used to weigh only 132 so he’s getting chubby (especially in his tummy). Well, honey, I want to wish you as nice a Christmas possible in spite of your being so far away from home. Remember that your welcome home will be as nice as you can ever dream it up because Ronnie and I are just waiting for the chance to give you that welcome as soon as possible. Always thinking of you. Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

29 Nov November 29, 1944

Posted at 17:15h in Letters

Card from: R. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler (cover page, picture of flying geese above snowy farm field) To Dad Christmas Greetings (center page) With love and best wishes to the world’s finest DAD Lots of Love, Ronnie P.S. can’t wait to see you, Daddy, so you can help me play with my trains. ...

01 Dec December 1, 1944

Posted at 13:06h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 1, 1944 Friday 9:30 P.M. Noteworthy: cigarette shortage, none to women?, butter shortage. My Darling, Rec’d a letter from you today, but it was dated Nov. 7th, which date precedes the Nov. 11th, letter I rec’d a week ago. If I don’t get a later letter soon, I’ll just waste away, wondering where you are. I certainly appreciate your writing in spite of all the handicaps. Those letters of yours mean more to me than you will ever know, and are the only thing I live for now, days. I sent you your flashlight months ago. It must have been in August, as page 2 I sent it the first time you asked for it, shortly after you arrived in England. I was able to buy four batteries the other day, and will look for bulbs tomorrow, and will send them, plus some candles. You ask for cigarettes, but they’re harder to get here than overseas the last month or so. People stand in lines a block long in front of cigar shops, whenever they have any on sale. They only put them on sale for an hour when they do have them, and then you take what they have and only 1 package to a page 3 customer. Everywhere you go you see signs "No cigarettes", or "No butter." I’ll try to get a pack or two if possible, tho and send along with the candles, etc. They even suggested not selling them to women, anymore, so maybe I’ll be out of luck. A lot of girls have taken to smoking pipes all over the country. Imagine? I just got a phone call for Mr. Page to have him call the feneca shipyards. It was his brother-in-law. I wonder if this fellow knows Ray? Elinor left this noon for Michigan, as the weather cleared up. Ronnie keeps page 4 asking where Elior went? I guess he can’t figure out her comings and goings, anymore. Elinor told me that if I’m ever in trouble to call her and she’d come out, which was nice of her, I thought. I told her I’d call her when Judy expected her family. She expects them Dec. 14th, by the way, just 2 days before my birthday. And who knows, maybe it will happen on the 16th. She certainly is a sorry-looking bow-wow, right now. I sure wish you were here to take care of her, as I won’t know what to do. page 5 I made a toy stuffed elephant today, which makes 2 cats and 1 elephant so far for Patsy Ann with a red kitten appliqued on it to match the stuffed toy I’m giving her. Gladys called today and said she and Joyce will come in next week-end to go shopping in the loop and will stay with me overnight. She also said she got a letter from Dick dated Nov. 4th, and which told her he’s with the 9th Army and in Holland. He was chosen from many men for special work, and he is quite page 6 thrilled about it. He’s in an office, I think, and I’m wondering whether he’s doing scouting. I’ll let you know when I hear more, as Gladys didn’t say much over the phone. I received a Christmas present from Elsie in Beloit today, which I won’t open until Christmas. She also sent me a birthday gift. It was a pair of black, white, and red wool Angora house slippers. Very nice, altho two weeks early. Elinor also gave me an xmas gift ahead of time, a pair of white sheepskin house Page 7 slippers. The reason was that she was with me with me when I was about to buy a pair, so she had to tell me that she had bought some for me, and when we got home, she gave them to me. Pretty nice, huh? I hope that you will be getting your boxes for Christmas. I haven’t done any xmas shopping as yet, and s’pose I’ll have to do a little, anyway. I’m at a loss as to what to do about curtains for the living room and dining room, as they’re so worn Page 8 I’m afraid if I wash them once more they’ll go to pieces completely. Curtains are so expensive and I can’t get new ones. Guess I’ll go without this winter. Maybe if I can find some inexpensive material I’ll make drapes, altho I hate to part with any money, nowadays. Guess I’ll have a pretty lonesome week-end, as I don’t know of anyone coming to see me, unless it would be Marge and Murray. Even the Hayes went to Indianapolis this week-end to see Betty. Page 9 It’s now 10:35, and as I’d like to read a story in the Colliers, I think I’ll stop writing until tomorrow night. Please write as often as possible, honey, as it seems I’m not getting them all, and therefore if you write less, I’ll get very few indeed. and that would be too hard to take. Goodnight, honey, and take care of yourself as well as you can under the circumstances. As it will probably be close to Christmas page 10 when you get this, I wish you the happiest Christmas possible, and I’ll try to be cheerful, too, so that Ronnie will have fun, anyway. Lots of love, kisses, and the best of luck, Darling. Mom and Ronnie ...

01 Dec December 1, 1944

Posted at 17:33h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. P. E. Hacker to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 1, 1944 Friday Dear Wes, Hello, Presley how are you, don’t fall over but I am answering your welcome letter right away. Hope you are getting more letters than Dick has been getting. He hasn’t received a one of mine since he has been over there and he had been there two months the 9th of this month. Guess though he has been on the go so much that my letters haven’t had a chance to catch up with him. When they do, he’ll have quite a time reading them all as I have written him every night. He landed in Scotland then went into England left England about the 26th of Oct. and was in France the 30th[.] At least that was the date of his first letter from there. He stayed there for a while until the 16th of Nov[.] From there he went into Belgium and then the 17th of Nov. [I] received a letter from Holland. So now maybe he will stay in one place long enough for page 2 him to get a few letters from me. He wrote that he hoped he didn’t wake up and find it all a dream as he was taken out of the group he was in to work in an office. He is now located with the 9th U.S. ARMY. His new address is Pvt Richard E. Hacker 35836909. Spec. Ser. Sec. Hq. 9th U.S. Army APO #339 c/o Postmaster, N.Y., N. Y. I called Alice today, she and Ronnie were fine. She said her roomer was leaving because her parents’ home had burned down at Pa Pa Lake and she felt like she should go home and help them. That is too bad as she was lots of company for Alice. Joyce and I are going in to see her next week-end, also [to] do some Christmas shopping. Well Wes, this isn’t much but I have very little news to tell you. Les is still here in the state[,] don’t know for how long though, and I’m still chief cook as Ellen is still down there with him. Will write again soon, keep your chin up and it can’t last much longer. Love, Pud. ...

03 Dec December 3, 1944

Posted at 17:27h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 3, 1944 Sunday 6:45 P.M. Hello, honey, Guess I missed writing you last night, but hope you’ll forgive me? I don’t s’pose I should be, but I did have a pretty busy day yesterday. All morning and until 2:00 P.M. I spent cleaning house, then as Mrs. Page was home I went Christmas shopping. I did very well considering I got back at 6:00 P.M. I bought gifts for all Norma’s children, for Joyce, and a couple gifts for other kids, and also bought Christmas cards, groceries, page 2 meat and some other small items. When I got home, of course, Ronnie and I had to eat dinner, after which Marge called and said she and Murray would be over, and they stayed until 1:30 A.M. During the evening I helped Marge cut a dress and fixed up an old dress of mine. Murray alternated between reading and sleeping. At 12:00 o’clock we ate, as Marge had made a chicken salad, which she brought along with a quart of ice cream. Nice when people bring their own refreshments, page 3 don’t you think? Anyway by 1:30 I was too sleepy to write, so I went to bed instead. Blame me? Marge had asked me to come over today, but I stayed home instead. Ronnie and I didn’t get up very early, but did accomplish quite a little. Besides breakfast, lunch and dinner, I wrapped the Bonnevere presents and it’s all ready to mail. I sent gifts, as follows: a red pr. of wool mittens for Claudette, a necktie for Wayne, a cute red bonnet for Carol, and one of the stuffed kittens I made for Joan (the baby). I hope page 4 they’ll like it, although it isn’t much. I bought a china tea set and knives and forks for Joyce. She’s such a spoiled kid, it’s hard to know what she might want. You should see she and Ronnie when they get together, as neither of ’em will give an inch. Say, do you suppose our son is spoiled too? Oh no, couldn’t be. Today has been rather uneventful, as even the Hayes didn’t come. They’re in Indianapolis this weekend. I’m sort of Christmassy today as I have green slacks, on, with a red and white checked blouse. Woo! Woo! page 5 Almost forgot I got a telegram from a sailor last night, and have a luncheon engagement with him on Tuesday. I may even spend all day with him as he’ll be in Chicago from 9:00 A.M. to 8:30 P.M. Tuesday. I hope you won’t be angry (or jealous?). Well, as by now your blood has probably reached the boiling point, I’ll let you in on a secret. The wire was from your brother. I called Gladys today and she’s coming in at 2:00 o’clock. He just said, "How about lunch?" So I don’t know why page 6 he’ll be here, or whether we’re to meet him downtown, or come out here for lunch. I s’pose he’ll call as soon as he gets in. I had an awful sinking sensation when I signed for the wire, and it’s a good thing Marge and Murray were here, as I wouldn’t have dared open it if I’d been alone. All I could think of was that it was from the war department. I pray the Lord, that that will never happen, as I doubt if I could take it. I hope people won’t make a practice of page 7 sending me wires while you’re away, as I get all "trembly." Ronnie and I are going out tonight to mail this. The walk will do us both good. I had a dinner engagement with Mrs. Evers for Tuesday, I called her today and explained so she changed it to Wednesday. I hope you can meet her some day, as she’s so sweet and pretty too. If I remember right I didn’t think Al was very handsome, although he looks nice on a photo she has of him in uniform. She did say he had gained weight, so page 8 maybe that helped. Well, Darling, all I can say is for you to pray, too, over there and maybe we’ll all be together again before we know it. I’ve been keeping up with Gen. Patton’s army and gather you are near or in Saarlautern or <? Julich>. Was I right? I rec’d two letters yesterday, one dated Nov. 14th and the other Nov. 21st, telling about you being in a former German home, easy chair and all. Tell me, are you in Divisional Hq. or in the Hq. closest to the front? Goodnight, honey, all my Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

04 Dec December 4, 1944

Posted at 20:39h in Letters

Letter from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 4, 1944 Mon. 1:00 P.M. Hye, honey, I just finished lunch, and waiting for Ronnie to finish his. He’s either pokey or he eats more than I do (and that’s for sure). Last night before bedtime I had to read him about fifteen nursery rhymes before he finally decided he’d go to bed, the little Dickens! I had bought him two new pairs of pajamas Sat., in pink and blue, and he wore the blue last night and with his blonde hair, rosy cheeks, he page 2 really was a little doll. I bought size 4, the largest they had with feet in ’em, and they looked huge, but they are not a bit large. He sure is a big little guy. I called him for lunch today telling him I had chicken salad for lunch. While he was eating, I said, "Hurry honey and eat your dinner." He said, "This is not dinner Mommie, this is salad!" Was I squelched, or was I? I also told him to drink his Hemo (a malted drink) and he said, "this is cocoa, not Hemo!" So I can’t win, that’s all. He was eating his salad page 3 with a salad fork, and he said, "I don’t need a spoon, Mommie, I eat with a fork now!" I said, "Yes, Ronnie, you’re a big man, now." He said, "Big man like Daddy?" That was cute, don’t you think? When anyone asks him his name nowadays he says, "My name is Ronald Shonkwiler." He pronounces it perfectly too, and that’s better than most grownups do. Of course, when I read to him, I have him repeat back each sentence and correct him when he doesn’t pronounce words page 4 correctly, so I think that helps his diction a lot. I’ve been washing clothes all morning in the basement, and I have the basement hung full and still haven’t washed my sheets and cases, so will wash them after the others dry, I s’pose. I have to take all my curtains down next week and if they’re still presentable after washing, I’ll put them up again, if not, don’t know what I’ll do. Can’t afford to pay $50.00 or more for new curtains or drapes, page 5 and that’s the cheapest I could get them for now, for four windows. Oh well, maybe you will be home soon, and I’ll let you worry about it O.K. As if you won’t have enough worries when you get home. 11:50 P.M. Since I started this letter I’ve been up on the Avenue buying groceries etc. for dinner tomorrow in case we eat here tomorrow when Forrest comes in. Mrs. Dixon is here and has been since 8:00 o’clock. page 6 and from the way it looks now, she’ll never go home. I haven’t had a chance to wash my hair or anything that I’d planned doing. 12:05 A.M. At last she has left, and I’m so so sleepy! I got 2 letters today dated Nov. 17 and 18th, but as I got one dated Nov. 21st last Sat. they were fill-ins, but still very very welcome, nevertheless. I’m reading and listening to all the news on Patton’s 95th division and Darling, do take care of yourself. All our love, always, Mom and Ronnie ...

06 Dec December 6, 1944

Posted at 17:25h in Letters

Letter from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 6th, 1944 Wed. 11:15 P.M. Darling, I had a nice surprise today, three letters from my honey. Ain’t that something? Dated as follows, Nov. 13th, 26th, and 27th. At least I think one was the 26th, but I’m not sure as the sensors had torn the upper left hand corner, where you usually place the place and date. It was wonderful to get those letters. The last two really made time, as the one dated the 27th got here in 9 days, and that’s the fastest I’ve had a letter arrive page 2 since you first got to England, when a couple letters got here in six days. Since then of course some have taken 4 weeks. All in all tho, the service is on the whole better than I had ever hoped. Just please write as often as you possibly can and I’ll try not to worry too much, although that seems almost impossible while you’re so close to danger. I can’t tell you how glad I am that you’re with a Hq. Co. Of course I realize even then you’re not too safe, but at least there’s page 3 a better chance of your coming through O.K.. One letter contains the Stars and Stripes, and I read about your division. Of course it’s written up from day to day about the 95th Division and a couple days they specifically mention the 379th Regiment, so you see I’m pretty well versed in what’s going on over there. Every once in a while they mention a Chicagoan and I keep looking for your name among the ones that the war correspondents have interviewed, etc. I’ll bet you wish you were page 4 sitting next to me right now. I have a whole pound of chocolate beside me. Forrest brought them for Ronnie and me yesterday. Pretty nice, don’t you think? I’d better stop as I’ve had ten already and I’ll be getting a tummy ache. Of course they’re small pieces. I did very little but relaxed today after rushing around all day yesterday. I’m reading a book "Leave Her to Heaven," by Ben Ames Williams. It’s pretty good, altho I’ve just started it. Ronnie and I had dinner with Mrs. Evers tonight, page 5 and didn’t get home until after the 10 o’clock. Of course Ronnie slept until 5:30 this afternoon so he had plenty of rest. Our dinner there consisted of: tomato aspic and cottage cheese salad, veal steak, mashed potatoes, gravy, creamed asparagus, buttered carrots, coffee, and lemon cream cake, so you see I had plenty to eat. Their little Donald is 2 yrs.old now, and is a cute little guy with big brown eyes like his Mommie. He has a tumor at the side of his neck, page 6 pretty close to his first vertebrae of the spine. She’s been taking him to the doctor for observation every month, as they have taken x-rays and are keeping check on it to see if it will dissolve and go away, get larger, or affect the spine. It certainly worries Frances (Mrs. Evers), and I don’t blame her, although there’s nothing can be done but wait. I have worries too, but they concern Judy, doggone her anyway! Wonder what will become page 7 of her, poor pup, it’s her own fault for playing around, but why should I suffer too? I have a couple rolls of 120 film now, but don’t suppose the GI with the camera is with you now. Let me know if you can use it right away. Frances told me tonite of a fellow who was a GI in China who made $35,000 selling black market items. He said Chinese women will pay $10 to $20 for a ipstick. And he said, page 8 a lot of the Chinese had plenty of money to spend. She said a lot of GIs were caught black marketing when they sent thousands of dollars home by money orders. Others sewed the money into their clothes and brought it back to the States that way. What can I send you to make some money on? I’m sending five dollars with this letter, but I have heard so much about how money is stolen out of GI letters, that I s’pose you won’t get it anyway. Let me know, will you? page 9 as soon as you get this whether you got the money too. Al Evers is still in the hospital after having his hemorrhoid (hemorrhoid?) operation, but should be O.K. soon, and he expects to go overseas soon. He said one x-ray technician is getting a medical discharge for stomach ulcers. A colored minister came to the door today begging for money for his mission, so I gave him a quarter. I s’pose I shouldn’t have, as it might become a habit page 10 for these colored men coming to the neighborhood. It’s now 12:15, so guess I’d better get to bed and get some rest, as I have loads of ironing to do in the morning. Goodnight, Sweetheart and may God take good care of you and us, so we can have a happy reunion after this war. It’ll be like another honeymoon, and I’ll be more bashful than ever, I s’pose. Love and kisses, Mom and Ronnie ...

08 Dec December 8, 1944

Posted at 17:30h in Letters

Letter from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 8, 1944 11:50 P.M. Pre-script I’m enclosing $5:00, hope you get it. I forgot to put it in the other night. Sorry. My darling, This will be short as I have some clothes to press and shoes to clean for Ronnie. You see he and I are going to "Tootie" Tosti’s birthday party today at 2:30. That means I have to hustle, as I’ll have to leave at 1:30, and we also must have lunch before we go. I bought a pair of lamb’s wool bedroom slippers for her, shaped like bunnies, and [had] a funny head, face and ears in the front of the toe. They’re beige and brown. page 2 They’re size 11, and I hope not too small. Ronnie wears 7 1/2 now, so they’re 2 inches too long on him. Can’t remember whether Tootie is 4 or 5 today, but I’m pretty sure it’s 5. I didn’t write last night, I’m trying to make up for it this morning. Ronnie of course is all excited about the party, and can’t wait to get there. Edith called yesterday and invited me to an American home show in some lady’s home, but I refused, as I wouldn’t want Ronnie to miss page 3 a party for anything. I know how much parties meant to me when [I was] a little tot. I didn’t receive any letters from you yesterday, but guess the 3 the day before will have to do for a while. I meant to thank you for the nice birthday letter, and it was much nicer than a card could have been. Of course it came ten days early, as my birthday is Dec. 16th, but that is because that letter really got here in a hurry. It took only 9 days, and page 4 that is wonderful service. A lot better than your anniversary card which I sent Aug. 1st, and you didn’t get it until Oct. 18th. I gave it 4 weeks to get there, but it just my bad luck that it had to take eleven weeks. Oh well, I’m glad you got it anyway. Better late than never - they say. Ronnie asked me again today when Daddy’s coming home to play with his trains. He went for Fuzzy in a big way, too, and at night saying his prayers page 5 he included Uncle Forrest, and said, God bless Uncle Forrest, too, because I like him! Wasn’t that cute. I took Ronnie up on the Avenue with me yesterday and I have [had] an awful time getting him away from toy counters. I bought a dump truck for one of his Christmas presents, as it seemed to fascinate him. I may buy him a small wagon filled with blocks, too, and then of course he has a couple of things upstairs page 6 that he hasn’t used. His cameo blocks, we bought at Fields, and that big pounding set, Gladys gave him. These things and the things he’ll get from other people will take care of his Christmas, I’m sure. I haven’t bought a tree, yet, but will soon, although tree light bulbs are impossible to find this year, even in the loop. I asked Ronnie if he wanted a dump truck for Christmas from Santa page 7 after we got home from the Avenue. He said, "I’ll play with this truck now. (meaning his old one, which is minus all four wheels now) and then Santa Claus can give me another one for Christmas with wheels on it, okay, Mommie?" That’s pretty clever, don’t you think? Of course one of the first things he does is take the wheels off his trains, trucks etc. and can’t seem to replace them again. The space between the rug and the small carpet in page 8 the living room is his train track, and also the road for his cars and trucks. He also puts up pieces of paper (folded in the center) for tunnels to put his trains thru. One day his "tunnels" kept falling down and he called me for help and was crying. As soon as I made it stand up, he said, "Thank you," and started to laugh again. This morning Ronnie got a card from his Daddy with 3 boys and a dog on it. He’s been carrying it around ever since. In fact at present it’s part page 9 of his train. Well, honey, it’s now 12:30, so I must really get going. Bye, Darling, and again hope you’ll have a pretty nice Christmas, even if you can’t be here. At least I hope you’ll have enough to eat. I also hope and pray for your safety every minute of the day. All our Love, always, Mommie and Ronnie P.S. Had windshield wiper repaired at Packard cost $4.49. ...

09 Dec December 9, 1944

Posted at 20:16h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. A Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 9, 1944 Sat. nite, 11:00 P.M. Hello, Honey, Thanks to Marge you’re getting a letter tonite. You see I still haven’t found my fountain pen, and when she stopped in tonite with Martha Tosti she brought hers along, so I can use it until I buy another. Much has happened since I wrote last night! Everything happens to me! I was in the midst of house cleaning today when Mrs. Hayes asked Ronnie and me to come over for lunch. page 2 I was tired, and couldn’t think of an excuse quick enough, so I told her we’d come. She had baked beans (3 lbs. of ’em) for some church affair tomorrow, and so we had baked beans, baked potato, peaches and cookies for lunch. Ronnie wouldn’t eat a thing there, but ate when we got home. Maybe he didn’t like beans! I left there at 3:00 o’clock and after getting Ronnie a bite to eat and getting him to bed, I wrapped two pkgs. for you. Neither one page 3 contains anything edible, however. One contains a flashlight, extra bulbs, and batteries. The other contains 5 pkgs of Luckies, some candles and more batteries and bulbs. This is the second flashlight I’ve sent you, as I sent the first one in August. The candles I sent are some I had around the house, as I couldn’t seem to get any others at the store, except Xmas candles. I wanted to buy the kind that’s about 2 or 3 inches in diameter and 6 inches high, but couldn’t page 4 find any. Hope these will help a little, anyway. These pkgs. will make the 17th and 18th pkgs I’ve sent you since you went overseas. Mrs. Emil Kuester said she sent you a box when she called [on me] the other day. I believe Gladys Hacker sent you one[,] also the Campbell’s (I think, I’m not sure). Claude sent you one, also. Gladys (Evansville, Ind.) sent a box. That makes five more. I s’pose your Dad and Norma must have sent some, too. When you get all these, if you do, and if the food is still edible, you’ll be a pretty page 5 lucky "G.I." Guess what happened today. At 5:30, Judy became the mother of one tan colored pup. At 6:30, she became the mom of a black pup. At 7:15, another black pup. At 8:30, another black one. A total of four, three black and one tan. It’s 11:40 now, so hope she’s all through. She’s in a big cardboard box in the bathroom, and I’ve changed her bedding once, so far. What will I do now with quadruplets added to my household? Why if she must pag 6 raise a family, couldn’t she have had it while you were home? You and your ideas about her not being able to get that way! ha! ha! ha! S’pose I should "get around" and prove you’re wrong there, too? On second thought, guess I’ll wait till you get home. S’pect I’d better, don’t you? Mrs. Page has been down to see Judy a couple times, altho they had company. A couple and their soldier son, who was home on furlough. The kid looked about 18 yrs. old. page 7 Jim and Martha were spending the evening with Murray and Marge tonite, so that’s why Marge and Martha came out to see Judy and family. I got a letter from Elinor yesterday, and also from Oralee. Imagine? I’m sending the letter first to Elinor to read, as it was also addressed to her, and will ask her to return it to me, so I can send it to you. They are in Olympia, Wash., and she has a job for the county and state, as nurse for five schools. Sounds like a pretty good job. She says page 8 she’s lonesome for Chicago, and her friends, too, And she says it’s been raining every day, as it’s the rainy season now. Oh well, you’ll read her letter eventually, so I won’t go into detail. I got a letter from Claude today, or rather it’s from Josephine. I can’t go [see them], even if Chuck and Betty don’t come in as I’ll have to be home with the dogs. Of course Gladys can’t go as she’s entertaining the Hacker Clan. I had planned on going there if my brother doesn’t come in, but don’t s’pose I can leave our pups to page 9 travel even that far. I’m also enclosing Norma’s card, that I rec’d when Fuzzy and Gladys were here. I got a letter from our Daddy today dated Nov. 27th. Say, do you mean these German and French people are even dirtier housekeepers than I am? That must be awful. All kidding aside, tho, it must be awful to live as they do, and I can’t tell you how much I wish you were here in your own nice home, with us, instead of in some of these places you have to be. But guess page 10 you’re lucky you’re warm and well-fed (I hope!) and not on the firing line. There’s always something to be thankful for. You mentioned if the Pages and Elinor are still with me. As I have written a couple of weeks ago about Elinor going home, you now know, just the Pages are still here. Elinor’s leaving makes ends pretty hard to meet and that’s for sure. Well, honey, I’ll close now, as I have a pretty bad headache. Quadruplets are too much in one day, I guess! I hope your diarrhea is gone now, as I know how weak it makes a person page 11 feel. Well, goodnight and lots of luck and a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, or at least a peaceful one. All our love, always, Mom and Ronnie P.S. Please take good care of yourself. ...

13 Dec December 13, 1944

Posted at 20:44h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler December 13, 1944 Wednesday, 10:20 P.M. My darling, I guess I’ll have to ask you to forgive me, ’cause I didn’t write last night. You see I was wrapping Christmas presents until 1:30 last night, and about that time I had a headache, and that’s for sure. You [see,] I bought gifts for all your nieces and nephews. That’s 13, I believe, and that is enough to make anybody go bugs, don’t you think? I’ll list the things I bought: Claudette, red mittens; Carol, red bonnet; Wayne, tie; Joan, one of my stuffed kittens. page 2 That’s all for the Bonneviers. Then Fuzzy’s children, the eight-yr old (can’t remember his name) [Sonny] a leather billfold; Robert, a ring-toss set; Carol Ann, a Cinderella doll; and James (the 3 yr. old boy) a pull toy bear. And Claude’s children, Norma Jean, Waac purse: Billy, a billfold; "Dee Dee", a pair of lambskin house slippers; and Johnny, one of my stuffed elephants. I bought a compact for Gladys, and I’m giving a Waac purse to Joyce, I also sent your dad a tie and Julia 6 hand crocheted glass coasters, I got a beautiful compact from Betty and Chuck page 3 for my birthday. It’s gold with a brown tortoise shell top. It’s four inches square. I’m going to save it to use when you get home. It’s too pretty not to have my honey see it, and appreciate it too, I finally got some stationary delivered today that I ordered printed for you at Carson, Pirie, Scott about 2 months ago, I don’t want you to use it up on me, as it would be gone in no time writing 8 or 10 page letters and would cost too much to send air mail, as it’s regular paper, just use it page 4 when you write your other friends to whom you write shorter letters. It’s very pretty and I hope you like it. They told me not to have your rank of Pvt on it, as your rank might change, etc. Of course I doubt that, but who knows? Jim Tosti is sending you a year’s subscription of Reader’s Digest, beginning with the Christmas issue, I s’pose, I was going to, but Murray said Jim had, so now I won’t have to. Are you getting the Tribune. I’ve page 5 paid $5, so I hope you are. If not, let me know, I spent yesterday afternoon shopping on the Avenue, as Ronnie was taking his nap. Mrs. Page was home, of course. A George Hofstra called last night and asked for you. I said, "Didn’t you know Wes was in the Army?" He said "No" it was news to him. He asked if we were selling this house and inquired about Murray’s house, and asked if you still had a lot on 124th Street. page 6 [He] Also asked me if I knew of any property for sale around here. I said, "No." Then he ended up by saying, "Tell Wes that the main thing is to get to heaven." I was nonplussed, thought I heard wrong, but he repeated the same thing again as he hung up. It was a funny thing to say to me, I thought, as I want you to come home and live a long life yet. All in all it made me feel pretty blue, as a day before some woman page 7 called from Cedar Park Cemetery urging me to buy a grave lot, as it might come in handy. Then yesterday someone called and asked me if I wanted to buy hospital insurance. No wonder I have nightmares. People certainly are pleasant, aren’t they? Today I went down to the loop to shop, as Edith took care of Ronnie, but I swear I’ll never go Christmas shopping in the loop again. I’m worn out and I did very little shopping. I’ll finish my page 8 shopping at 63rd and Halstead tomorrow evening, as Marge called tonight and said Murray was going down and I could ride with him. She said she’d come right from work and pick Ronnie up at Mrs. Dixon’s house, where I’ll leave him at 5:30, Marge will bring him home at 6:00. Marge called last night and asked if I’d like to go to a show Sat. nite with she and Murray and we’d eat after the show. I said yes, but today it dawned on me that Gladys and Joyce page 9 had said they were coming in this weekend. I called Marge and told her and she said, "That’s all right. We just thought we’d take you out to celebrate your birthday." Then I felt awful, but there isn’t anything I can do about it. It was pretty nice of Marge to think of it, as I didn’t even remember her with a card, but then I didn’t know her birthday until it was too late anyway. I got a Christmas card from Oralee and Fred and Irene Sinestsen today. I haven’t sent any yet, and really don’t know who I should send them to. Got a lot of bills today. page 10 Telephone $5.67, gas $18.72, plumber $4.50 (haven’t paid for that sewer cleaning job yet), Van Hermann’s Drug Company $3.00 (for your powders). Also a bill for $3.60 for renewal of safety deposit box rental at Smith’s. Total $35.49, which I don’t have. Besides I haven’t even bought a Xmas tree and s’pose I should for Ronnie. I’ll get $15.00 rent next Sat., but no allotment check until Jan. 2nd. I suppose I shouldn’t have bought Christmas gifts, but I’m glad I did anyway, as it was something to divert my thoughts from worrying about you, honey, and I love to shop for kiddies anyway. Don’t worry, honey, I’ll get by somehow and if necessary will draw out of our account, altho page 11 I hope I never have to. I know that we’ll need all of it after this war, and also realize it may take some time before we can save anymore, but will never starve, so don’t let my money worries bother you too much. Well I feel better now that I’ve written, and altho I’ve written every day except for very few times, it just doesn’t seem right that I let even one day go by without telling our Daddy that we love him page 12 very much, and think and talk about him every day. Joan bought Ronnie a 3 car wooden train for Xmas and he played with it over there altho he won’t get it officially until Christmas. Joan seems a lot better behaved lately and is growing up. She’s now 5 feet 6" in her stocking feet (3 inches taller than Edith) and weighs more than I do. (of course that isn’t [saying] very much), but for her it’s pretty good. Good nite, Darling and keep thinking of us, as we do of you. Love always, Mom and Ronnie P.S. I bought Ronnie a dump truck for Christmas. I’m also getting a blackboard for him I think. ...

17 Dec December 17, 1944

Posted at 16:06h in Letters

Letter from: A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 17, 1944 Sunday 4:35 A.M. Noteworthy: Mom wishes she could live in California. Description of some of Ronnie’s antics. Mom would go berserk without him. Darling, I’m much too sleepy to try to finish this letter, even before I begin. This morning, after washing curtains last night, I ironed them. That is, my living room curtains. I had gone down the loop last Thursday trying to find new ones, and gave [up], as they had none large enough[,] and by sewing 2 pr. together it would cost me [$]15.00 per window, which meant $45 [$60] for all 4 windows in both rooms. Hence, I came home and washed, tinted them <? ecru> (same as the walls) and hung them up again, holes, mends and all. After ironing I started cleaning house and in the midst of it (at 11:00 A.M.) in walked Gene Gellasini to tell me he quit Metropolitan Insurance. and that he’s selling real estate full page 2 time for Brandt’s, and won’t be around to collect anymore. It took him until 2:00 P.M. to tell me. I was trying to get rid of him, so went on vacuuming, dusting etc., but instead of leaving he helped me move my furniture around. He said you kept writing and asking about Chamberlin all the time, so he wanted Ronnie and me and his family to ride out to Glen Ellyn with him someday to check up. I don’t want to but how do I get out of it? Please advise me! He finally left after Gladys and Joyce arrived, or 1/2 an hr later. Anyway Joyce and Gladys went to the Loop shopping, so I finished cleaning and went shopping for groceries, as Murray and Marge were coming over for dinner, altho Murray had said he couldn’t make it until after dinner page 3 as he was having his battery charged and had to wait while it was done. I had planned on having steak, but as Murray wasn’t coming and Bernie had nothing but lamb chops, I bought them, without looking anywhere else. Well Marge called 1/2 an hr. before dinner (6:30 - too late to buy any other meat) saying Murray was coming after all. Well when I mentioned having lamb chops, he decided he’d eat out. Imagine the spoiled brat! So Marge came over and we ate alone. We had five lamb chops (broiled) between us, french fried potatoes, creamed asparagus, lettuce and tomato salad, olives, celery and coffee. Sunday[,] 5:10 P.M. Later Murray came over after eating and Christmas shopping and Gladys and Joyce got back after shopping and going to the Chicago Theater, so page 4 at 10:30 we had sandwiches, coffee and my birthday cake (I bought one at Erga’s and put one candle on it). The Pages came home, so they came down too. Well Mr. Page and Murray conversed and Gladys, Marge and I and Mrs. Page gossiped. Of course Joyce and Ronnie were in bed asleep, but Ronnie woke up crying at 10:30, as I was setting the table. He said he "wanted some dinny." He’d eventually heard dishes rattling the little dickens. I put him back to bed, however and he went to sleep again. After eating and talking it was 3:00 A.M. before we dispersed. Isn’t that awful. After everyone left Gladys and [I] page 5 talked some more and started to write our husbands, but as you see we got tired and went to bed and I’m finishing mine today, as Gladys and Joyce left at 4:00 this afternoon. This morning I was up at 8:30, and after getting to bed at 5:00 A.M.. Boy, and I’ve really got a sore throat now and feel miserable. My birthday really got me down. I wish you had been with us last night. I kept looking at the door thinking how wonderful it would be if you walked in. I blew out my birthday cake candle and of course everyone said, "Make a wish." I did and everyone said, "I bet we can guess what she wished just then," and page 6 I guess even you could guess it, and I really wished with all my heart and in the form of a prayer. I guess in all my life I’ve never had a chance to really get lonesome, until we met and you went away and part of me evidently went along with you, and I’ll never be complete until you come back again. It’s an awful all gone, lost feeling, so hope it won’t be long before the war is over. I got a[n] Xmas card from the Martinsons (Calif.) and they asked about you and said they hoped you could spend Christmas at home. They hadn’t heard anything of you since you were in Florida. I sent them a card and a note telling where you were and also gave them your address. Was that O.K.? page 7 I got a beautiful hanky from Marge and Murray for my birhtday. It’s so pretty I won’t dare use it. You see they cost $2.00 apiece now with the hand rolled edge and embroidered initial. Also got a birthday card from them. I also got a birthday card from Vy Palm, believe it or not. She apolagize for not writing and said she’s working for Goodyear as an Accounting Dept. <? comptormeter> operator. She can’t find an apt, so is living in a small hotel. She said she and Fred (the Army Sgt.) broke up last March just before he went overseas, and she sent her ring back. He is now in the Hawaiian Islands and has been writing every day. Last week he sent her, her diamond again and will be married after the war and live in Los Angeles, as page 8 they both like Calif., altho he’s from Ohio. She says they say "true love doesn’t run smooth," so their’s must be the real thing. She’s a strange person, but if you get to know her she’s a pretty good kid. I also got a Christmas card and letter from my girlfriend (the Navy Lieutenant’s wife) today. We got mail today (Sunday) because of Christmas, I s’pose. To get back to Ruth’s letter, she says her husband is taking his ship out to sea again, (he’s 2nd in command of a [the] ship) and she wants me to come out and stay with her for a month. Do you think I should. I’m thinking seriously of it, as I’m sort of run down and have colds half the time, page 9 and could stand a change of climate for a while. I realize of course the trip would be expensive, but might be worth it, as I’d feel better. This girl has a four year old son, so they’d probably (he and Ronnie) have lots of fun together. Of course I have Judy and her quintuplets [quadruplets] to consider for a few more weeks, but after that there would be nothing to interfere. I guess I deserve a change of scene, when you consider I’ve stayed so close to home for more than a year now. I’d like to hear from you first, but may pack and leave on the spur of the moment. I had always hoped to live there if I ever married, and in a way I wish you hadn’t decided on Glenn Elyn [Ellyn], but then I page 10 guess where you go, I’ll go. I think even your health would be better in Calif., as things don’t seem to move as fast as here in Chicago, out there. How’s my sales talk? Almost forgot the Martinsons have bought a new home out in N. Hollywood. Their address is, 6432 Gentry N Hollywood, Calif. They asked if you would write them a line or two. Today Gladys made breakfast, as my throat was so sore I had no ambition at all. Of course after breakfast I cleaned up the house and put my beef roast on. We ate about 2:00 o’clock. We had pot roast, brown gravy, mashed potatoes, creamed asparagus, buttered green beans, coffee and some more birthday cake. after dishes we sat and page 11 talked for a while and at 4:00 Gladys and Joyce left because there’s a lot of snow and ice on the roads and she didn’t want to drive after dark. I hope she gets there O.K. I went to the N Pullman Woman’s club tea Friday with Edith. I’ll never go again[,] I was very much bored! Of course all the women there, but one other guest, were from 40 to 80 years of age, so you see I was a little juvenile. Veda Campbell took care of Ronnie and when I came to pick him up he was sitting at the table with Veda, Vy Blum and Edamae, having cake and milk and with an open book in his lap. Edith laughed and said, "He looked just like his old man with the morning paper at breakfast." It really was funny and he kept passing the cake and page 12 biscuit platter to them, saying, "have some more cake!" Oh, such a gentleman he is! Yesterday morning Mrs. Page came in with her wastebasket after emptying her garbage and set it down as she closed the door. Ronnie picked it up and said, "I’ll bring it upstairs for you, Mrs. Page" and proceeded up the stairs and set it down in her kitchen. She just about died laughing. Yesterday afternoon after his nap he had lost one of his marbles (he had two) and looked and looked for it and kept pestering me look. I did and then forgot about it! In 20 minutes Ronnie came back to me and said "What are you going to do about it, Mommie?" I (having forgotten) asked, "Do about what?" He replied, "What are you going to do about my marble?" page 13 Mrs Page heard him from upstairs (as her door was open) and she thought it was so funny and told Gladys, Murray and Marge about it last night. He’s really a funny guy at times! The little monkey! I only wish I could record every thing he says and does and send you the records, but I guess the best I can do is tell you some incidents in letters and maybe you can imagine how he looks. I’d probably go berserk without him for company and that’s certain! Just like a three-ring circus, at times. He keeps asking every day if we’re having a Christmas tree, or not and whether Santa Claus will bring him another train and truck. Well, hope this Sat. and Sunday combination letter will make up for Friday night. You see page 14 I’d planned on washing living room curtains Fri. evening and Mrs. Dixon came over and stayed until 12:00, (during which time I embroidered stuffed animals) and I went down and washed, dyed and starched the curtains after midnight. By that time I was too tired and with my cold, too, [I] just couldn’t write. Am I forgiven, honey? I haven’t had any mail since your Nov. 28th V-mail letter, so hope I’ll get some mail soon from my honey. Ronnie just said, " Are you writing to Daddy, Mommie?" I then ask him, "What shall I tell Daddy for you?" He said, "Tell Daddy - "Dear Daddy, I love you." You tell him, Mommie," He talks just so darn adult sometimes, I look at him twice to see if it’s Ronnie. He is so sweet and has red rosy cheeks. Goodnight, Sweetheart, and lots and lots of love, always, Mommie and Ronnie Addendum, enclosed letter from: Oralee to: Alice Shonkwiler Dec. 3, 1944 Dear Alyce, Eleanor, and Ronnie, I’ve been a long time getting around to write you - I’ll have to use that old one that I’ve been busy. Ha! I’ve thought of you folks lots of time[s] wondering how you are etc. We like it here [in Olympia Washington] quite well. We only stayed in Tacoma two weeks and then moved here because I got a job here in the county state health department. This town is small, only 16,000[,] and there isn’t very much to do in the way of excitement[,] but it’s close to Ft Lewis and Fred can get home every other night, so that’s nice. This is the "rainy season" out here. It just rains all the time. The natives say it takes a while to get used to it[,] but when you get used to it, you like it. It isn’t cold - The grass is green and the flowers are still blooming. page 2 There are lots of evergreens out here and in our yard we have two very large holly trees. They are beautiful with the red berries on them. We are still getting lettuce and carrots from the garden the people left who lived here before us. We were fortunate to get this house. We have seven rooms. Fred and I have the bedroom and bath downstairs. Another sergeant and his wife have a bedroom and bath upstairs. And we still have one room unoccupied, which we will rent. This house is completely furnished[,] electric stove, electric refrigerator - We have a washer to use and they left a vacuum cleaner and even let us have their electric sewing machine. Fred and I rented a room here and then the doctor who lived here (and also rented the place) and had to go overseas so we took over the place. Houses and rooms are very hard to get as page 3 they are near every army camp. We were lucky. Olympia is the capital of Washington and [the] legislature meets the first of the year. So, I guess places really will be hard to get then. This is a very pretty country. I like it and Fred is quite in love with this climate. We are on Puget Sound. He has been fishing a few times and has caught one big cod weighing about 15 lbs. We baked it and it was swell eating. He wants a salmon but hasn’t caught one yet. We bought a Plymouth 41. I have to have it for work as I’m a school nurse. I have 5 schools, all distinct district schools - One is on the <? Wiqually> Indian Reservation. page 4 Sometimes I get sort of lonely for Chicago. I’m glad to be here with Fred, of course but I’d like to see my friends too. Can’t have everything they tell me! Fred has had a two week furlough and just went back today so he was home for Thanksgiving. I was off Thurs. and Fri. too - We celebrated by cooking a goose. The couple who lives here with us - Ruth and Bill ate with us and we had a good time. Well, now that I have broken down and sent a few lines, please write me. I’m very anxious to hear from you. Please tell us how Wes is and give him our regards. Alyce - give Ronnie and Eleanor a kiss. Love Oralee 313 Fort Street, Olympia, Washington. EL: Please return this as I’d like to send it to Wes. Thanks. ...

28 Dec December 28, 1944

Posted at 17:18h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Dec. 28, 1944 Thursday 6:30 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad is in the hospital. Darling, Ronnie and I are going out to mail this before he goes to bed, so it won’t be very long. Not a thing has happened all day anyway, so can’t give you much news. I’m sending you two 8 oz. 1st class mail pkgs. tonite, one containing stationery. Hope you get them while you are still in the hospital. If I remember all I’ll enclose some stamps with this letter, but don’t count on it. Have done practically nothing today, except try to start the car, but no results. The battery is probably down, as I’ve driven very little in the past three weeks because of all the snow and ice. It no sooner gets so that the roads are halfway cleared and it starts page 2 snowing all over again. We’ve really had a typical "white Christmas." I want to take some pictures of Ronnie in the snow, someday, as Gladys got a roll of 620 film for me. I also have 2 rolls of 120 film, but don’t know if you can still use it, as this fellow with the camera is evidently in Germany. If you run across another camera that takes 120 film, let me know. Marge called this afternoon asking me if I’d like to go to the show with her and Murray next Sat. night, and I accepted. That is, if I can find someone to stay with Ronnie. I haven’t been to a show since Elinor left, and that was the first part of November. Guess it’s about time I saw one, don’t you think? Staying home seven nights a week, will either make a "hermit-ess" of me, or when you return I’ll expect to go out every page 3 night. So rest up, honey, ’cause you may have to "tear around" when you get back. I suppose it’s a pretty long time since you’ve seen a movie, too, so guess if you can stand it, I can. The only thing is I’m apt to bore myself with my own company. Ronnie sure eats now-a-days and seems to be gaining weight. (At least around the waist.) He has the loveliest rosy cheeks, which I envy very much. He had a cold a few weeks ago for a couple days, but certainly has made up for it in both activity and appetite ever since. Ronnie has been finishing his dinner just now eating Jell-O and cake and milk for dessert. Just now, he came in here and announced, "I knocked the glass down, Mommie." So I went in and his milk was all over my clean page 4 tablecloth. I asked him why he knocked it down and he said, "Because it was too cold." Imagine that? You see, I hadn’t warmed his second glass of milk, as the bottle had been out of the refrig. for quite a while. He is a little "bad boy" sometimes, but I guess that’s just the boy in him. Or is it? Ordinarily he’s very little trouble tho, as he plays continually with his toys, except that every once in a while he’ll bring a book and tell me to read it to him. He just loves to have me read him rhymes and stories. Maybe he’ll be literary. Well, that is if he doesn’t become a railroad engineer first, as he sure loves his trains. Tomorrow night Ronnie and I are going over to Mrs. Evers. It will be pretty hard to get there unless my car starts tho, as it’s pretty dark page 5 around 104th and Prairie and I can’t afford Taxi Fare. I have no plans at all for New Year’s Eve, so probably will stay home by myself. Marge and Murray are going to her brother’s home, or sisters, I don’t remember which. I wonder what you’ll be doing on New Year’s Eve and how did you spend Christmas Day? I hope you at least had good food. Received a letter from you today that was written Thanksgiving Day after your dinner. [It] Seems you had a fairly good turkey dinner. I’m so glad, as I was thinking of you that day and wondering whether you were eating C or K rations. I had turkey at Tasti’s, which was very good, too. (Excuse please Ronnie is pulling my hand and wants me to come out in the kitchen to gaze at the moon. It is beautiful and a full moon, too. Seems Ronnie is romantic, too!) page 6 His vocabulary is about as big as any adult’s, now, and [he] talks and talks all the time, either to me, himself, or his trains. Now he’s crying because his train toppled over. I made a cardboard tunnel for him, so he’s having loads of fun, altho it doesn’t always go where he wants it to, then he gets mad! Let me know if you ever get the money I sent. I enclosed $5.00 in each of two letters in the past two weeks. Well, honey, guess I’ll close now if we’re going to mail this and your pkgs tonight. Just keep your chin up, Darling, and someday we’ll have all the happiness that is due us - I hope! All our Love and a kiss too, Mommie and Ronnie P.S. Judy and Pups are fine. Last one sale, but still have 2 sold and 3 to go. ...

31 Dec December 31, 1944

Posted at 15:17h in Letters

letter from: Forest Shonkwiler to: Alice Shonkwiler Dec. 31, 1944 Dear Alice, Read letters that Gladys wrote to Dad’s and Norma’s. Certainly sorry to hear of Wes’s wound. Hope it wasn’t at all serious. Have you heard from him since it happened? Please let me know as soon as you can. Dad and I both wrote to him but of course at the old address. Will probably take a month for him to get it. Has Gladys heard from Dick? He is in a pretty active sector. Sure hope both come out with nothing serious happening to them. Visiting Dad and Norma over the holidays. Got a 10 day leave ending Dec. 31st. I certainly enjoyed the visit and think they did too. Both families seem to like it in Oregon. Both seem to be doing okay. Received your package and certainly enjoyed the nuts. I’d forgotten all about the shirt. Thanks a lot for both. Hope that you and Ronnie are both okay. Write, Forest page 2 W.F. Shonkwiler, PH. M. 3/C, Naval Records Management Center 417 South Spring Los Angeles 11, California. ...

03 Jan January 3, 1945

Posted at 15:20h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Jan. 3, 1944 [1945] 9:45 P.M. Wednesday Noteworthy: Mom gets $140 per month to run the house. Hello, darling, I’ve just been cuddling one of Judy’s pups. They’re so cute. Wish you could see them. It is too bad they’re not thoroughbreds, tho, as long as they’re just as much work. I have to feed them raw hamburger twice a day now. Next week I have to start on Carnation milk and Kiro’s syrup formula. It’s just about like having [a] quintuplet of babies. They’ll be four weeks old next Saturday. I only have two sold, but hope I sell the rest before the seven weeks are up. They have sharp teeth, already, so Judy doesn’t care much to be around them anymore - Poor Judy! It’s tough to be a Mommie. I received a letter from Forest. page 2 today, which I’m enclosing. Spent just about all day today ironing and still have sheets and cases to do, as yet. Ronnie sure seems to have a lot of clothes when it comes to ironing them, and yet it takes a very few days for him to get them all dirty again. I have a nasty stye in my right eye and the other eye is sore, too. Guess I’ve done too much sewing lately. I’ll just have to let up for a while, I suppose, altho I did want to make that red jersey blouse, Edith gave me material for. Guess my eyes are most important, however. I think Ronnie’s gaining some weight, if not, he should, as he certainly eats lately. Today, for example: Breakfast: one large orange, page 3 dish of oatmeal and cream; one egg, one slice whole wheat toast with butter and jam; two glasses of milk; Lunch: large bowl of carrots, beans and peas (mixed); one slice of whole wheat bread and butter; two glasses of milk: two peach halves and a cookie; Dinner: 1/2 a cube steak; potatoes; creamed asparagus; slice of bread and butter; two glasses of milk and two cookies. To tell the truth he eats more than I do, especially at breakfast, as I never eat cereal, altho I do eat an egg occasionally. I packed a box for you today, and hope you’ll get it this time. The cigarettes are thru courtesy of the Tosti’s and Gladys (your sis). The Luckies are from the Tosti’s and the Camels are from Gladys. I got a carton of each to send you, but page 4 I’m sending only a few packs at a time, as I’ve heard they steal them out of holiday pkgs once in a while. I also sent cocoa, the ready mix kind that you only need to add water, also a few cookies and carmels, and a box of tea bags. Is there anything you need? Just write and tell me? I got my allotment yesterday, and it came just in time, as I was broke, and owed $15.00 for groceries, %5.67 - telephone, $4.50 for plumber, and $3.00 for powders. I paid the firt three named, already. I’ll have to pay $22.00 for city and state licenses right away quick, I hear - oh me! Or is it $18.50? Now I’m expecting a big gas bill any day now and electric, too. Boy, running this house on $140.00 per month, when gas and electric are doubled, because of tenants, is no page 5 small job, I can tell you! Remember we couldn’t even break even at $260 per mo. plus your gas mileage money and your overtime, too. If I manage to do it, honey, I’m a magician, I can tell you that. Just remembered, we owe $3.60 for safety deposit box, too, at Smith’s. I’ll get by, tho, so don’t worry about it, one little bit. Wish I could convince Elinor she should come back, but guess that’s out of the question, as she’s too busy supervising the rebuilding of their home, and as long as her dad pays her a salary and gets free room and board - I don’t blame her a bit. How are you getting along, honey? Are you all well now? It’s been 10 days since I’ve had any news, so I haunt my mailbox from morning until night. page 6 Every time the mailman comes both Ronnie and I race for the mailbox, and when we look at the letters, Ronnie says, "No letters from Daddy, Mommie," and I say, "No, Ronnie," and he says, "Did mailman take Daddy’s letters away? - Poor Daddy." He should say, "Poor Mommie," - I think! A man got stuck in a snowdrift on 110th, today, so I called to him and asked if he’d like a shovel. He said, "yes," and dug himself out. He was so grateful and said he had been ill and was on his way to a doctor, even then. He got stuck because he swerved out of the way because of a boy bicyclist, who wasn’t looking where he was going. So - I did my good turn for today. Goodnight, Sweetheart, I love you, Mom and Ronnie ...

04 Jan January 4, 1945

Posted at 16:37h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Jan. 4, 1944 [1945] Thurs. 8:30 P.M. My darling, Eleven days and no letter from you. If it only means you’re on your way home, it’s worth waiting, but then again I get scared thinking you may be back in combat, again. Guess I shouldn’t cross my bridges until I come to them. Rec’d a letter from Irene Siventaen today. It would be a coincidence if Elmer should be in the same hospital you are. He evidently didn’t get into a Hq. Co. Sounds like he was a rifleman. Imagine, getting a Presidential Citation! Come to think of it, you should get a purple heart, or am I wrong? Just like Sam’s to go, A.W.O.L. isn’t it? Do you suppose he’ll get shot for it? You’d think he’d have more sense than that in battle. We’re still having below zero weather, and today, when I was pag 2 all set to drive up to the Avenue to pay the electric bill, the car wouldn’t start. Mr. Dixon came over and tried to push it with his car, but there’s too much ice and snow for it to get traction, so it was a failure. Guess I’ll have to wait until warmer weather, then take the battery to have it charged, as I evidently don’t drive enough to charge it up. Everything happens to me. The letter I wrote you yesterday came back today, as it didn’t have enough postage. The package I intended to send today will be delayed, until the car will start. Did I tell you that the "duchess" next door came over yesterday and gave me 20 red points, so I can buy meat for Judy and her family. Isn’t that something? You see rationing has tightened up again, as we’re now allowed 50 points per month, page 3 and butter has gone up to 24 points a lb., and meats accordingly. In other words, with just two ration books, Ronnie and I have to get along either without butter or meat. They also invalidated all red pts we might have had on hand that we hadn’t used. I’m not complaining, however, altho I sure hear a lot of it. I’d go without anything gladly for this war to end, and have you back, again. I’m reading "Rogue’s Company" by Harry Knoll. It sure is a "squirrely" book. Mrs. Dixon brought it over yesterday. This letter sounds pretty dull, doesn’t it, but being home all day, with no visitors, doesn’t give me much to write about. Murray never did put my storm doors up, altho he kept saying he would, so I started to do it myself, but didn’t succeed very page 4 well, so I called Mr. Dixon, who came over and put them up for me. Pretty nice of him, wasn’t it. Darling, Ronnie and I still pray every night for your return, so keep us in mind. All our Love, always, Mom and Ronnie Addendum, page 1 letter from: Irene Siventaen to: Alyce Shonkwiler Jan. 2, 1945 Dear Alyce, Your letter came to the office, and I was very happy to hear from you. I hope you enjoyed the holidays. I know I miss Elmer more than ever. So many things happened to Elmer within the last month. He was in combat and was awarded the Presidential Citation. He wrote me that he didn’t do anything, but he told his mother that his platoon captured one hundred and thirty Germans. He had some rough experiences while in combat. Right now he is in England in the hospital with trench feet. Did you celebrate on New Year’s Eve? I was at a party, and the liquor was flowing freely. Was Santa Claus good to you? Ronnie must have enjoyed Christmas. Children certainly spread the sunshine these days. My sister’s little girl had us daffy talking about Santa Claus. One of the gifts she’s received was a nurse’s set, and all of us have been her patients ever since. page 2. Have you heard from your husband letely? Elmer was with the seventh army. A beautiful bouquet of flowers arrived on Christmas Day. I never expected anything like that, because I knew Elmer was the the hospital. Elmer’s folks had dinner with us on Christmas Day, and when the flowers came they had tears in their eyes. Well I’m hoping that 1945 will bring peace. I can’t wait for Elmer to come home, so that we can settle down to routine life again. He talks about coming home in every one of his letters. It’s been rather cold here, but I suppose it is much colder in Chicago. Give Ronnie my love. I just feel in love with him. Elmer wrote me that Sams had gone A.W.O.L. in France, and was supposed to be court-martialed. Did you remember him? He was rather witty. I feel very sorry for him, his wife and two children. I hope they are lenient with him. This life is full of tragedy. We all hope the New Year will bring everything good. As ever, Irene ...

17 Jan January 17, 1945

Posted at 20:39h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England, January 17, 1945. Hello again. Today has been another very nice day. Here in England we saw some tractors out plowing with a mower All of which is very good news. [Two paragraphs of faded out, illegible writing. What do you think of the big Russian <? push>? It was just announced here that they have just captured Warsaw. That looks <? clearly> good to me. It may all be over by <? summer> yet. Wouldn’t that be something. <? I’ll> say <? mite> to you both my dears. Bye Ronnie, Daddy ...

17 Jan January 17, 1945

Posted at 15:22h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England, January 17, 1945 page 1. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Received a V-mail from you last nite. <? About> <? our> <? and> tonite I am trying something a little different. Will write you a regular letter and send it airmail. In other words there <? won’t> be more than one of these letters but it will <? ail> be the same letter. The mail hasn’t come in today yet but while waiting for supper thought I would start this. The mail usually comes right after we finish eating. I only received the one letter yesterday so am expecting a bunch of them tonite. Yesterday I was called over to the EENT <? chnis> and they told me tnere that I had an <? injured> <? sinus> some <? foreign> matter still lodged in there and some <? anu> <? adsnaged> with all that mucus is <? ..nore> <? tue> <? san> all you right now as I don’t know. They said my stomach x-rays showed no ulcers so something else is wrong there too. <? Will> see you on page two. GWS ...

19 Jan January 19, 1945

Posted at 20:15h in Letters

Enclosure in Letter 450122 Letter from: Gladys Scholl (Ronnie’s aunt from Evansville, Ind.) to: Alice Shonkwiler Friday evening January 19, 1945. Dear Alice, First I want to thank you sincerely for remembering Kenny with the very clever little Scotty. He truly adores it. He also received a stuffed horse (not handmade), and has two teddy bears, and honestly you would think he was a mother of all of them. He seems to have a parental instinct already. Of course we were very shocked and saddened to hear of Wesley’s injury. And I wanted to use my fists on someone for putting him back into combat so soon. I just hoped his trouble would be serious enough to release him. Do you think I was awful to wish that? page 2 We are so fond of Wesley. He’s certainly a "square shooter" if ever we knew one. And my heart goes out to you and Ronnie in your anxiety over him. We’ll just pray harder than ever for his safe return. I wrote such a lengthy letter to Edith tonight, that I’m going to let her tell you our family news. On Dec. 29th I received a Xmas card with an enclosed note from Wesley, written Dec. 1 and mailed Dec. 2. He told us his Sergeant was a neighbor of ours in Oakland City. And on that same day, Wesley’s Sergeant had written home to Oakland City about Wesley page 3 being related to us, and the boy’s father brought the note to the office. I should enclose it if I can find it again. I’m sorry I delayed so long in answering your Xmas message, and in thanking you for the lovely gift to Kenny, but things have been happening thick and fast here. I have to assist Dr. Scholl, too, a part of the time, and I keep quite busy. Theodore is going to Chicago the 11th of Feb, but I’m not sure that I will be able to accompany him. He will probably call you, anyway With best wishes, Gladys Scholl ...

21 Jan January 21, 1945

Posted at 19:32h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Jan. 21, 1945 Sun. 9:15 A.M. Noteworthy: Many relatives back home tout the great job Mom is doing with Ronnie and all. Mom got a wire about Dad being injured. Dad talks about one of his injuries. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, I’m off again today so while waiting to go to church will start this letter. I didn’t write you last nite as I spent a good part of the evening reading my mail. I received an even dozen letters last evening. Those combined with the bunch I received Thursday rounded out a pretty fair week. These letters were both old and new ones. Also received two from Norma, one from Dick Wessilius, one from Hayes, one from Caubles from Louisville Ky. Guess I told you I received letters from Kuester’s, Campbell’s, Holmes, and a letter from Rosen from the front. All those plus about a dozen from you was a <? bit> of all right. Now if some of my packages will only page 2 catch up with me, I’ll be sitting on top of the world. I haven’t received a package from anyone since the first three I received from you last Sept. when I still was in England. No doubt by this time many of them must have been lost or destroyed. Well your letters have now brought me up to date with a number of things that were a bit hazy. For instance I know now what happened to Elinor, her family and why she isn’t coming back. I’m glad now that I sent you that fourty dollars Friday as I know you must need it. Too bad about Elinor having to leave and all the trouble she has been having. Are you going to try and find someone else to stay with you? Received the letter with the pictures. They are exceptionally good. I can’t get over how Ronnie is growing. He certainly looks good and is some little man. page 3 However, you look kind of thin which is what I was afraid of. The pictures of Ronnie standing by the window with a big grin on his face and the one of both of you sitting on the front steps then the one of you alone I thought were the best. Judy looked good too. You don’t know how glad I am that you sent them. Think I must have looked at them a hundred times already. As for the 120 film, thought I had told you before, there is no need you sending them now as I haven’t seen the fellow with the camera since I left England last fall. He didn’t go to France with us. Something wrong with his feet or something. Ernest wrote me a letter this time and said you were behaving yourself and was proving a very good mother for Ronnie. Also told me to behave myself because you were worth page 4 coming home to. Guess you must have paid him plenty to say all that. Also in the letter from Natalie Cauble she said Edith had mentioned to her that you were doing all right. Even Norma wrote me that you had written her and said she certainly wanted to meet you soon as you seemed like a nice girl. Well all I can say is that someone has been paying plenty for all those nice words. Of course I knew all these things three years ago or was it two - well whatever it was you know what I mean. No kidding though my dear, I haven’t been asking for any reports. They have all come voluntarily and they all sound excellent to me as I knew they would be. Anyway Ronnies pictures alone prove everything page 5 I want to know. You are doing fine and I love you all the more for it. Just don’t ruin your health doing too much. Time for church - see you later. 10:45 A.Ml Back from church and now to finish this letter while waiting for dinner. I’m waiting patiently. You see I didn’t get up in time for breakfast this morning. Hope we have fried chicken or something good. From the clothes you and Ronnie were wearing in the pictures[,] I would say that you are still a pretty fair seamstress. They really looked very nice. Elinor looked pretty good too although she looked a little worn out. Some of your letters were those written after you received the wire about me being injured - the ones you addressed to my company. They got here pretty fast at that. Was glad the wire said what it did. Had been told that they page 6 all said the same "seriously injured" and I know would really make you worry. However I think if the medic who made out my report had known the full extent of my injuries he could have filled it out differently and then you would have received such a thing raw. Things do turn out for the best sometimes. Anyhow I am glad to know that you do think of me a little and would much rather have me alive than dead. Personally I’d rather be that way myself. You tell Ronnie that Daddy’s sores are still not entirely well but they will be someday. They tell me now that the small piece of shrapnel still in the right side of my face is not doing any harm there - at least they don’t think it is and for the time being, at least, they are not going to remove it. Seems that it page 7 is lodged next to or against my right sinus and I guess it’s best to leave it alone. Otherwise there is nothing new about my condition and I know no more about what is going to happen to me than I did the day I arrived here. Maybe the war will be over yet before I leave. If Russia can keep going for another two weeks like she has this last week, I’m sure it will. That of course is what we are all hoping for. Certainly glad to hear that you did have a Christmas tree. Sounded like it must have looked pretty nice. About the car. Believe I would hold on to it a while longer if you can. The new gas bill sounded about right. Wouldn’t be surprised if you had one or two bills that reached 30 during the cold weather. Sorry you didn’t have such a good time over New Years. It was nice page 8 that you were invited out for dinner and had turkey. As for the Hayes’ games well she knows better than <? to> try anything like that on me. Don’t imagine you did so badly though. As for Murray and his foolish attitude, it’s pretty hard to figure him out sometimes. Personally I wouldn’t worry about it. Well my dears, it’s getting very near showtime and since I’m very hungry guess I’ll better brush you off and get going. I’ve just finished reading over all your letters I received since coming here - 17 airmail and 2 V-mails - it makes pretty good reading. Guess I’ll have to keep these so I can present them to you about the first time you get real tough at me someday. Give Ronnie a big hug and kiss for me then have him give you one for me too. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

22 Jan January 22, 1945

Posted at 20:12h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler January 22, 1945 Monday, 11:00 P.M. Noteworthy: Starting salary for factory worker, $0.90/hour. Gladys suspects Dick. Some fidelity conversation and philosophy. Prescript. Ronnie and I are both well and feeling fine, just keep writing every day. Dearest, Will have to make up for yesterday’s V-mail tonight, or I’ll have my husband feeling pretty bad, won’t I? I rec’d three letters from you today dated January 12, 14, and 15th. Seems I’m getting exceptional mail service lately. Wish you would get better service, too, then everything would be hunky-dory. Muriel was out job hunting today and applied at Douglas Aircraft out on Mannheim and Higgins Road. She’s going back tomorrow with the application blank she filled out tonight. They said they’d find a room for her at Park Ridge or Melrose Park if she decided to work there. They told her she’d page 2 get 90 cents per hr. to start and raises later up to $1.25 per hr. I had hoped she might work at Pullman and stay with me, but she wanted to be closer to people’s church, which she intends to join. Anyway I’ll be alone again, with very little money to live on. Muriel has been here only a week, so $13.00 are my gross profits on that week. [The] Met. insurance man collected $4.83 today and paper boy $2.90 (for 2 mo. of Tribune), and I still don’t have money to pay my $35.00 gas bill and if it isn’t paid tomorrow, I forfeit $3.55 discount. I checked thru our bank books the other day, thinking I might draw some money at Smith’s, but find we have only $15.00 in our joint account, but there is a brown folder, which page 3 shows a balance of $1100.00, but this is only in your name. How come as I thought all the money was in joint ownership now. It’s possible this balance is void, but doesn’t seem to be. Of course there is a $900 account at Chesterfield Savings, which is also in joint acct., but didn’t know if you wanted me to draw on that. What I’m wondering about now is whether we have $900.00, plus $1,100.00, plus $15.00, or do we just have $915? Also if we have $2,015.00 total, why isn’t all of it in joint ownership? Or am I being too nosy? I don’t really care, but would like to know how we stand as far as cash funds go, especially now, as I’m afraid I’ll have to draw money, or starve. page 4 Wish I could think of some way of making money, without causing Ronnie any hardship. You mentioned cashing in your new bonds, if necessary, but that wouldn’t help much, as I’ve only rec’d two since you left. (One in Ronnie’s name and one in mine.) I’m sure one $10.00 bond, won’t get me very far. Maybe you’d better find out why I’m not getting them, as I should have more than that during this period. I got a letter from Gladys Scholl today which I’m enclosing, together with [a] clipping she enclosed written by your platoon Sgt. to his dad. I also rec’d an income tax statement from both Sterling and Smith. I didn’t know you earned $112.00 at Smith in January. I page 5 suppose it was some back commission due you, but don’t remember you telling me about it, or have I forgotten? I’m filing a return for your 1944 income, but may have to send it to you for your signature. I’ll call the collector tomorrow to find out what to do. If all goes well, I should have a refund of $49.68, which won’t be hard to take, altho suppose I won’t get it for months to come. Have you rec’d any more pkgs. as yet? Maybe it’s just as well, because the food wouldn’t be edible anyway, but the sweater and scarf I sent might come in handy if you ever get it, also toothpaste, shaving cream, etc. Gladys had her last letter from Dick dated Jan. 1st, and he doesn’t seem to be in immediate danger page 6 as he’s in or near a town. She’s worrying herself to death, as he doesn’t write more than a couple times a week and only a page or two at a time. You see they had it out while he was home on furlough concerning some information she’d heard about an affair with an A and P girl employee. If you remember last year he had rec’d a couple letters from a married woman with 3 children. It’s the same one. It didn’t dawn on her then that it was an affair on his part, but since taking over his N.B.C. route she’s heard things, which, altho he denies it, leads her to believe it is so. She says she’s lost faith in him [and] doesn’t think she’ll ever trust him, anymore. I sure feel for her (if it’s true), and can imagine how she feels and especially when he’s overseas, as there’s no chance to get straightened out about it at all. Of course if Dick is innocent, I feel sorry for him, too. page 7 Sure makes me feel funny, too as just as I’m beginning to believe in love, marriage and faithfulness, this happens to someone that I thought were happily married. God, honey, if you ever get to the point where you feel the need to enjoy another woman’s company, I want to know it, so that I can step out of the picture before you stray. Will you promise me that? I saw so much of this "stepping out" business on the part of people I knew in Rockford, that I didn’t want to get married. I guess I figured if I couldn’t have the kind of marriage my folks believed in, I’d rather be single. You seem to have the same attitude I did towards it, so I believe I would just give up page 8 completely if you should turn out to be a cheat. I know you won’t, if I know you as well as I think I do, so I’ll keep that faith until I know differently. Please don’t mention anything to either Dick or Gladys, tho, as it’s their problem and only they can work it out. I hope everything works out for the best. Gladys asked my advice, but all I could say was to try to forget her doubts and write to Dick as tho nothing happened, and when he comes back never mention it to him again as it will only anger him whether he’s guilty or not, and I told her I was sure he loved her even tho he doesn’t write much, it’s probably just thoughtlessness. Did I say the right thing? I’ll call Gladys and get Dick’s address for you tomorrow. If you write him, forget the above, however. All our Love, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. This morning at breakfast Ronnie said, "Where is Daddy, Mommy? Is he coming home soon?" I said, I hope so, darling. ...

24 Jan January 24, 1945

Posted at 12:53h in Letters

letter from: Private George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England January 24, 1945, Wednesday, 6 p.m. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, No letters again tonight but you can’t guess what I did get. One of the nicest package I could have received. You kinda fooled me, sending me that very nice photograph of you and Ronnie. It really is very good of both of you, and you both look good. Ronnie certainly is growing. When did you have it taken, and where did you send it? They never put mailing dates on packages for some reason. Of course, I know you must have sent it since Dec. 21st. I also received the nice stationery. Thank you very much for both of them. Page 2. I have the pictures setting on my bed table, and it brings you both very near to me right now. I wish I were just as near physically. Found out today that I will be around for at least another week. Other than that, I know nothing. Well another week may mean very big changes in Germany. I’m still hoping against hope that this big push will end it all once and for all soon. You should see this country around here tonite. You know I told you about our four to six inches of snow yesterday. Then today it has been very foggy even though temperature is page 3 below freezing. The affect of the freezing fog is really a sight to behold Every thing, trees, fences, bushes, hedge rows, anything out in the air is covered with frost almost an inch deep. The trees look completely white all over. Boy they really have everything freakish in this God forsaken country. Well my dears no mail, no news, plus a long letter I wrote you last night makes for a short one tonight since I have to catch up with my other correspondence. Thanks again for the picture it really is worth a lot to me. The other one is back in Germany, it was with my other stuff that was left behind. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

24 Jan January 24, 1945

Posted at 20:18h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Jan. 24th, 1945 Wednesday, 2:30 P.M. Darling, All is quiet on the Western Front. Ronnie is sound asleep in his bed and Muriel is asleep on the Davenport. Of course, the pups are barking away in the basement, but I’m getting used to it. I’ll have to put an ad in the paper next week, ’cause they’re getting too big to have around. It should have been done today, but found that the deadline for ads was today noon, so --. Muriel is definitely going to work at Douglas Aircraft tomorrow. They (Douglas) found a place for her to live on the North side at 4943 Kenmore. It’s an apt. Hotel, the Northmere. page 2 Her shift is from 1:00 A.M. to 8:00 A.M. She’ll work 6 1/2 hrs. and get paid for eight - not bad! Maybe I should go there, too. They also arrange rides for their employees, which is pretty nice, too. I rec’d a letter from you today dated Jan. 5th, which is previous to the letters I got Monday, dated Jan. 12, 14, and 15th. Now of course I’m anxious to hear how your gastric juice test and x-rays came out. Glad to hear you got the cablegram at last, although I see now it was a waste of $4.00, as my letters got to you before the cable. But then there was a chance that you might have rec’d it sooner, and at the time, even a slim chance was worthwhile, because page 3 I knew you hadn’t had any mail for so long, and I felt that possibly the cablegram might get there sooner. Of course if you had still been in Germany or France perhaps you might have rec’d it sooner. 8:00 P.M. Since I wrote the above Ronnie and I brought Muriel and her luggage down to the I.C. station, and window shopped on the Avenue and came home for a light supper. We had our dinner at noon today, so we didn’t eat much tonight. Ronnie did pretty well both times, however. When Gladys was here last weekend, she said Ronnie was fatter than he was at Christmas, so I guess he’s page 4 healthy. He sure is a little Dickens, just bosses me around just like someone else I know! Wonder who that could be! Come to think of it maybe being in the army will cure you of that habit, do you suppose? I just called Gladys and she said she got a letter from Dick dated Jan. 5th, and he’s still in [the] same town in Holland, and doesn’t seem to be in danger. He doesn’t write much, so she doesn’t know much about what he’s doing, etc. I got his address for you, altho Gladys said she wrote you and gave you his address. Pvt. Richard Hacker, 35836909 Spec. Sers Station Hq. 9th U.S. Army APO 339 % Postmaster, New York, N. Y. page 5 This address sounds like he might be in the Divisional Hq., or something similar. Am I right.[?] What were you in, the Bn. Hq.? When you write to Dick, please don’t mention what I said about Gladys’s suspicions, etc., in my last letter, will you? You might remind him to write Gladys oftener in a subtle way, however. Altho I don’t suppose that would be advisable either, as that would sound as though she had been complaining. I guess the best thing is just forget about it. I had told Ronnie the other day, at breakfast, where you would be sitting at the table, etc., when you come back, and today when I sat down in your page 6 place at the table, he said, "Mommie, sit on the other side." I said, "why," and he replied, "That’s Daddy’s chair." I got a bang out of that! I explained to him that you would sit there when you came home, and asked him if I could sit there, now. He said, "Okay." Certainly wish you were here ’cause I know you’d get a big kick out of all the things he says and does. He can really keep up a conversation now, and even makes sense most of the time. I’m reading a book now, "Forever Amber" by Kathleen Windsor. It’s written about an English girl in the year 1644 in Restoration, England. The book is 972 pages, and doubt whether I’ll ever find [the] page 7 time to finish it. My eyes can’t take continual reading either, it seems. I’m really what is considered as "poor as a church mouse" tonight, as I have just 49 cents between now and Saturday, and have $8.73 to pay out for my insurance, and also an unpaid telephone bill of $5.99. I also owe over $12.00 at Bernie’s -- Poor me! Won’t be long before I get the allotment, I guess, but even 8 or 9 days is a long time, isn’t it? I’ll manage, somehow, I suppose. I have $10.00 to collect on one of the pups, so that will help. I got $10.00 for the first one last Saturday, but it’s already spent. The veterinarian took most of page 8 it for cutting off the puppy’s tails and Judy’s tapeworm treatment. Just had a phone call from Henry Jostis, asking how you were, etc. He said he wrote you a couple weeks ago, but used your old address, so you may not get it for a long time. I gave him your hospital address, so perhaps you’ll write again. He also asked if he could borrow your camera for some indoor pictures. He said it’s impossible to get film for his camera, as they aren’t making #130 film anymore. Wish he’d take some pictures of Ronnie, too, while he’s taking his, but don’t s’pose he will unless I suggest it, and page 9 I wouldn’t have that much nerve. Well, all I can do now is hope and pray some more that you’ll be sent home, and that’s just what Ronnie and I do at bedtime every night, (plus Ronnie’s kissing at least six of your photos every night). Goodnight, now, honey, and you keep on thinking your wife is one true gal over there, and I’m sure she’ll stay that way, and of course she expects the same of her husband. Fair enough? We love you, Mom and Ronnie ...

25 Jan January 25, 1945

Posted at 15:19h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler January 25th, 1945, Thursday, 10:45 a.m. Hello Honey, Imagine me writing so early in the morning. Elinor called last night and said she’d be in today, so I thought I’d better start this letter before she came. I forgot to tell you in the last night’s letter that Rumbold’s Real Estate on 119th Street had been robbed. They looted 177 safey deposit boxes of $50,000. Mary told Edith she had all her cash, bonds and all of her worldly possessions in her box. She had written the numbers of her bonds on a sheet of paper, but had put it in with the bonds in her safety deposit box. Edith said this page 2 was the third time she’d lost everything she owned. Sure is pretty tough luck. I’m enclosing a clipping from today’s paper, which tells of the thieves capture, but I don’t s’pose they’ll recover much of the money and so on. Now I’m worried about our own box at Smith’s. For one thing we don’t have a record of what’s in our box, do we? Do we have any bonds there that I should go down and jot down the numbers? I think I’ll go see one of these days. I told you in last night’s letter I was broke and had only 50 cents. I went through all my coat pockets today and found change amounting to $4.50, quite a haul, wouldn’t you say? Well, I guess I better get busy and straighten up the house page 3 before Elinor arrives. Ronnie has his toys all over the place, living room, dining room, and kitchen. He has all four sets of trains (16 cars) all hooked up and uses every available chair, table, and devenport as tunnels. Right now he’s using the footstool as a bridge and is running his truck up and over it. He’s the busiest little engineer and truck driver you ever saw and that I am sure of. Now his trains are going over my footstool. (Also across my feet.) He talked me into making a cardboard tunnel for him one day, but now his scope of tunnels includes all the furniture too. Well bye now until later. 12:00 midnight. Elinor arrived about one P.M. page 4 and we sat around catching up on gossip, and so on until about 5:00, then we got to thinking about food. Elinor wanted to eat out, so we ate at <? Loosen’s> on 103rd and State. We had steak T-Bone at $1.75 per plate, plus some extra potatoes and milk for Ronnie. Our dinner consisted of T-Bones (14oz), french fries, peas, tomatoe and lettuce salad, shrimp cocktail, coffee and ice cream. It was very good, too. Ronnie got a big thrill out of this stuffed deer head on the wall, kept running up to it and ran away again, saying it would bite him. By the way, Elinor, paid for the dinners, wasn’t that pretty nice? She wants to go home tomorrow, but I’m trying to persuade her to stay for the page 5 week-end. Elinor and I have been rearranging the living room furniture tonite. I think I like it too. I’ll draw a diagram for you. [diagram of living room] How do you like it? It seems to make the room look larger, believe it or not. The shad rug I got from Chuck and Betty is the one I have in front of the fireplace. Judy has already adopted the new rug as her place to sleep -- leave it to Judy to find the softest spot in the room. Well, it’s pretty late, Darling, page 6 so think we’d better turn in or we’ll never get up. I haven’t had any letters later than that Jan. 15th, I received Monday, so I still don’t know how your X-rays turned out, and I’m so anxious to hear. Goodnight Sweetheart, and I suppose it’ll be around Valentine’s day when you get this, so about all I can say is I’ll miss you terribly and more than ever on that day. I just keep thinking how wonderful if you would be sent home, so we could celebrate together, and pray that if we don’t that it will be the last time we celebrate apart. All our love always, Mom and Ronnie ...

26 Jan January 26, 1945

Posted at 16:47h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Jan. 26, 1945 Fri. 6 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad talks seriously, expresses judgements about Mom working and about selling the house and about returning home. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Got a mess of mail again tonite and about a half dozen letters last nite. They seem to be catching up with me now for sure. Eight of them wore yours, one dated Sept, five Oct, and two in Nov. Also heard from Ray Hines, Mr Cauble, and four Oct. V-mails from you. All very old as you see, a very good reading nevertheless. And slowly I am able to put together all the pieces until I now have you almost 100% up to about Jan. 1st. It’s funny but I’ve only received a few recent letters. Guess mail service is still pretty slow to UK. I wrote Dick a letter [in] care page 2 of [the] 9th Army. I still don’t know his address as no one seems to remember to send it to me. You happen to mention in one of your letters that he is in the 9th Army. No more packages except the one with powders, the photograph, and stationery. Boy if I ever get all the things you say you have sent me I really will be rich in provisions of sorts. Receive a card from Reader’s Digest saying that Tostis had sent me a year’s subscription, which I appreciate very much, even though I still have to receive any of the copies. Guess that is going to be like the Tribune. Was sorry to learn that you had such a bad cold for so long last fall. No doubt page 3 you must be fully recovered by this time. Anyhow your and Ronnie’s picture certainly look like you are both very well. Learned the picture was taken around the last of Oct. about the time I was crossing the channel on a limy boat - a rough crossing it was, too as I remember now. The crossing back only took a couple hours though and was quite smooth. That was made in a good ole U.S. C-47, which probably accounts for the fast smooth crossing. It is colder than hell here today. According to the limy papers 34 degrees, <? df frost> or 2 below zero in our language. And that’s damn cold - under the conditions. We had the stove page 4 in the tent where I work red hot all day and then it was none too hot. Of course about all I wear is a pair of fatigues over a pair of pajamas. Also have some limey underwear but that’s practically all cotton. Oh yes, I received a letter from Mr. Chamberlin. He said business had been about the same as last year but had been very hard on him as he could not get any help in either the office or in his home and his wife had not been at all well. He said he was very sorry you had not come out to help him, even a few hours a day, as he was sure you would have been of great help and he was sure you could have picked up some page 5 easy sales. I think you could have myself and without much effort have made far more than you did taking care of Elinor besides getting some very valuable experience and information at the same time. Selling must be easy now for him to do that much business and take care of all the other things he says he has been doing during the past year. You see I am not at all in favor of you going back to work at a regular job but something like that where you could keep Ronnie with you much of the time and work only as much as you had time for would be quite different. You might even find out why it will be impossible page 6 for me to be coming home some days right at the stroke of the hour when I have a big deal pending. Well, it’s just a thought. One thing you must keep formost in your mind at all times is Ronnie’s good welfare. I wouldn’t want anything you do or what I would like to have you do interfere with that. He is a far more important to me and you too I think than a business <? ninuy> or anything else for that matter. I am also not anxious to sell the house. As long as we have that I feel more like I have someplace stable to come home to. Well guess these and your present money problems you will have to solve yourself as there isn’t much I can do page 7 when I am over 4,000 miles away. As much as I would like to help I can’t in my present position. You have done so well so far I know you can carry on a little while longer. This war surely will be over before many more months. Of course then, if I am still alive, it will probably be months before I am sent home. Not any too rosy a picture, but there are many more just like us or in far worse situations. So my dear, do the best you can for Ronnie and yourself and I guess things will all turn out right in the end. There is nothing new that I know about concerning my status. I put in most of my time sleeping, eating, writing letters and rolling bandages. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

27 Jan January 27, 1945

Posted at 20:20h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Jan. 27, 1943 [1945] Sat. 3:00 A.M. (Excuse please, guess it’s Sunday.) Darling, Pretty late to be just getting in, isn’t it? I think so, too! Elinor, Ronnie and I spent the evening at Marge and Murray’s. I had no idea how late it was, until we got home and glanced at the clock. We got there at 8:00, and put Ronnie to bed there, as soon as we arrived and he went to sleep right away. He was so sweet about being awakened, dressed, etc. While at Marge and Murray’s, Murray offered us drinks. I had a Coke and whiskey, and Elinor had a glass of wine. [I] Doubt if there was more than a teaspoon of whiskey in mine. I s’pose Murray figured I wouldn’t know the difference. page 2 I cleaned house this morning, and during Ronnie’s nap (Mrs. Page was home) Elinor and I shopped for groceries, then had our dinner when we got home. The buyer of the blonde pup picked it up tonight, so I’m $10.00 richer on that score, and believe me, I can use it! Mrs. Page called the Norge refrigerator repairman today because the box was running pretty loud. Well, - the bill came to $8.05. She said she’d pay half, but I gave her $5.00 of it. I really should have paid the whole bill as we’re renting the apartment furnished. The refrig. needed a new belt, and also gas (freezing gas or ammonia page 3 gas, or what have you). It was $5.00 for gas and belt and $3.05 for labor. (It took just 10 or 15 minutes, plus his trip.) (So you see my pups so far have paid for battery, spark plugs, points and refrigerator repair.) Murray was showing Elinor his College yearbook and bragging about his fraternity affiliations and his conquest of the most beautiful girls, etc. Also claimed he had several dates with Marjorie Weaver, etc., etc. Also raved on about the positions his fraternity or rather honor society comrades had attained since school days. Elinor said (to me) that all the others had achieved success, but Murray, in spite of his school page 4 day "affiliations" He rather bragged of the superiority of his fraternity in comparison with yours (not directly, but by inference). It was on the tip of my tongue to say, "It goes to show you that school honors don’t mean much in realistic living," as I felt that you have achieved aeons more than he in spite of his social and scholastic honors. But of course, I didn’t say it, altho it was hard for me to be still. I’m sending some more Christmas photos of Ronnie and me. Hope you like them a little bit, anyway. Isn’t Ronnie chubby? Well, honey, I’m too sleepy to stay awake, so goodnight, and I hope I have a nice dream of my honey. All our Love, and I mean all, Mom and Ronnie ...

28 Jan January 28, 1945

Posted at 13:22h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler January 28, ’45 Sun. 9:20 P.M., [page] 1 My darling, Today has been a busy day as we didn’t get up until 10:00 o’clock. Elinor got up at 11 o’clock. We had breakfast, read papers then dinner, consisting of fried chicken (sort of tough); mashed potatoes, green buttered beans, peach salad, coffee, and canned plums for dessert. After that I took Elinor down to the IC to catch a train for home. She was here from Thurs. until today. Edith called today and asked me to come over next Wed. afternoon for a coffee party. I s’pose Vida, Mrs. DeYoung, etc., will be there. S’pose I should entertain them, too, but I hate to - darn it! I’ve been alone with Ronnie since 4:00 o’clock, and of course now he’s sound asleep after saying his prayers for Daddy’s safe return. I sent eight snapshots in yesterday’s letter taken Christmas and January 20th when Gladys and Joyce were here. I hope you get them. I also sent three snapshots taken at Christmas, [and] a couple of weeks ago. Let me know and if you don’t get them, I’ll send another set, as I have the negatives. I rec’d a letter from Julia the other day, thanking me for Christmas gifts and asking about you. Love, Mom and Next page V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George Shonkwiler Jan. 28th, Sunday 9:40 P.M., [page] 2 Dearest, Here I am again, disappointed? Better not be! Are my V-mail letters legible enough to read? Is this black ink letter better than the blue I used before? Judy looks and feels much better since her worm treatment and this week I should take her to the vet for another. I’m also going to bathe her tomorrow as she has B.O. I had a letter from Boots (the Lt’s wife) and she still wants me to come out to California for a month visit, as her husband is going to sea again. Do you favor the idea? She has a boy 4 yrs old. I’m sort of fagged out and could stand a rest and change of climate, but hate to draw money for the trip, altho of course I would stay with her, so it wouldn’t cost much more than the trip. This continued snow and zero weather gets me. Maybe you’ll have a medical discharge by then and we can go together, as cold weather is not good for sinus trouble. If you continue to suffer with it we’ll have to move West instead of settling in Glen Ellyn. Love always, Mom and Ronnie Next page. V-Mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Jan 28, ’45, Sunday 10:00 P.M. [page] 3 Hi, Honey, The addressing is tiresome, isn’t it? Tomorrow I’ll be all by myself after having company for the past three weeks. It will be sort of a relief in a way. I intend to sew a pair of overalls for Ronnie, an apron as a birthday gift for Elsie Reddite and a wool jersey blouse for myself this coming week, so I’ll be pretty busy anyway. I also have to start thinking about making clothes for Ronnie for next summer, such as overalls, sunsuits, etc. Maybe you’ll be here by then to see my works of art. I read where Germany may surrender to Russia instead of to England and America and that predictions are that the war may be over by April or by summer at the latest. I’m keeping my fingers crossed and praying, too, so you do the same. This is the last of todays series of letters, so good night now and take care of yourself. Love now and always, Mom and Ronnie. ...

28 Jan January 28, 1945

Posted at 14:50h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Jan. 28, 1945 Sun 3 P.M. Noteworthy: E.W. Cauble’s enclosed V-mail confirms that Dad volunteered for the Army. According to the British, the winter of 1944/45 was the coldest in the 70 years they have been keeping records. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Took the afternoon off today to see a show and catch up with some correspondence. Just came back from seeing a crazy show, "Doughgirls," or something like that. Now for the correspondence. Since I haven’t received any mail since writing you last there isn’t anything new to write about. My days are still very much the same[:] up at 7 A.M. breakfast, plaster room, 8 A.M. to 11:30. Lunch at 12:00. Back to the plaster room at 1 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. Dinner at 5 P.M. then mail if there is any and after that I write a letter or two, read a little, play cards, etc., until 10 P.M. then bed. Sounds exciting doesn’t it. Now page 2 that I get plenty of food and plenty of sleep guess you think I should be getting fat and healthy. Well I should be at that but it doesn’t seem to be working out that way. I seem to have trouble sleeping at nites - but do get enough, and now that I have had a chance to gain back what I lost in France and Germany, my appetite has diminished a great deal. So I am about at my usual weight and far from fat. Although I am getting very soft or have been that way ever since being injured. Still have no idea what’s going to happen to me or how soon. I am taking sulfa pills for my skin trouble and it is a little better. They are not doing anything about my stomack [stomach]. In fact [I] believe that doctor thinks there isn’t page 3 anything wrong with my stomack [stomach]. At least he says nothing shows up in the x-rays. All I know is that there is something wrong and it certainly hasn’t gotten any better since coming to this ward. Don’t know just what I can do about it as complaining apparently does no good. These army doctors seem to have their own ideas about things and think that every G.I. in here only complain or say they have some thing wrong to keep from going back to the front. I’ll admit that may be true for some but I’ll be damned if it’s true of this one. I don’t want to go back to the front anymore than anyone else, but I won’t try to goldbrick myself out of having to go back. In fact this work I am page 4 doing in the plaster room is more or less voluntary. I could just as easy [easily] be loafing around the ward all day. However, that would drive me crazy. As long as I have something to do time doesn’t drag too much and I feel that I am still doing my share. They need help so badly there that the Sgt. said he had asked that I be transferred there permanently. But it seems it’s pretty hard putting thru a transfer like that. So doubt if anything ever comes of it. It wouldn’t be such a bad deal though. Oh well, who knows? Maybe the wars end will solve all our problems. With the Russians now less than a 100 miles from Berlin it certainly looks good to me. Boy I’ll be page 5 one happy person, as will many others, when that grand day comes. I had a little cold yesterday and a very bad headache. Also my nose bled about every time I touched it. Thought perhaps it was caused by my injury, but [the] Doctor said it was from my cold and not to worry. Well both my cold and the bleeding is much better today. So perhaps he was right. I hope so. I have enough trouble now I think something else would be too much. You are probably thinking by this time that I’m pretty sick and blue today. Well I am pretty blue but guess, I’m really not so sick. Like you I have to get melancholy once in a while and sound off to some pag 6 one. And what is a good wife for if she isn’t to hear some of her husband’s beefing once in a while. Anyhow, I’m thru now even though I don’t feel any better. I am enclosing a rather nice letter I received from Mr. Cauble. As you know I always thought him a very nice gentleman and this letter made me feel pretty good. You know there were quite a few people who questioned my judgment and thought I acted a little hasty in marrying you. Time and you my dear, are proving them all wrong. Just keep up the good work. As for Ronnie and I, well we know they were wrong all the time. I know you are doing a marvelous job and I just hope that some page 7 day very soon now I’ll be able to return and we can take up where we left off. In the meantime guess you will never know how thankful I am that you are so good to Ronnie, treat him so well and love him like I know you do. Since coming to this hospital I have received 26 airmail and I think 8 V-mail letters. Some of them you wrote way back in Sept. The latest a V-mail written Jan 8th. A wide range but all very much appreciated. Can’t understand why I haven’t received any more recent mail. Your last letter was mailed Jan 1st. and I’ve only had the one later V-mail. Can it be that you are forgetting me? Of course I know you aren’t but it would page 8 nice getting an up todate letter or two. It’s still very cold here and the snow that fell three or four days ago is still on the ground. The temperature has been around or just below zero all the time. According to the British it’s their coldest winter in the 70 years they have kept records. I would get in on that. At that it is nothing to what I have seen in Chicago. Well my dears this is a pretty long letter for not having anything to say. I don’t get this way very often. In fact usually my spirits are pretty high so don’t think too much of it. And I hope you are both well and everything is O.K. All my love to you both, Daddy Enclosure: V-mail from: E.W. Cauble [Ronnie’s maternal Grandfather?] to: George Shonkwiler Dear Wes, We are all well and happy [in] Louisville. Dad has had you in mind indeed very often since you were called to service. [I] understand you were a volunteer and what a noble inspiration for a young man. Was in Chicago in September met your new wife and your little Ronnie a very sweet lad. Stayed only three days. Alice phoned for me one forenoon to come over and play and Ronnie and I played in your backyard and my what a grand time Ronnie and me playing in the sunshine - some boy. Alice seems mighty nice and she and Ronnie seem attached to each other and what a conciliation for us. I know you’re overseas trip to foreign lands is quite an experience for you and hope you like it but some of it might be "pretty tough" as Army life must be. I know you will "come through" O.K. My foremost incentive to go to Chicago was to see Ronnie. Am hoping you are well and now you [will] be safely returned to Chicago. Yours with lots of love, Dad ...

29 Jan January 29, 1945

Posted at 13:23h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Jan 28, ’45 Mon. 12:20 A.M. Dearest, Here I am again! Just can’t get rid of me! Or do you want to? How is the not-too-bad nurse? Is she still rubbing your back? It isn’t fair, Now I’ll have to have someone rub my sore back. Do you mind? I was hugging Ronnie this morning and said, "You’re my little baby, aren’t you?" Ronnie replied, "No, you’re my little baby." I said, "Oh no, I’m not, I’m Daddy’s baby." Then he looked puzzled and said, "Then who’s my little baby? Mommie?" So you see how silly we talk at times. We just "ain’t" got the sense we were born with. Am I right? But we have so much fun! When he goes to bed in the afternoon, his parting words, are always, "You tell me, Mommie when it’s time to get up, so I can play with my trains. Okay, Mommie?" Honey, I’m too sleepy to write more, as I’ve been sewing on an apron all evening. Best of luck, darling and our love is always with you, Mommie and Ronnie Next page. V-Mail from: G. W. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Jan 29, 1945, Mon. 12:00 A.m. My darling, I received a letter from you today dated Dec. 3rd which was sent "free." So you see it took exactly 4 weeks to get here, which is even slower than regular air mail. This letter contained Stars and Stripes, which was very interesting. Muriel came to see me today noon and said she quit Douglas after the first day, because she didn’t like setting flush head rivets with a gun. I don’t think she gave the job a fair trial, but I guess that’s her business. I don’t know what she’ll do now other than making hat pins and novelties again. She’s spending the night with me, but will go back to her room on the North Side tomorrow. I’m trying to sell some of her lapel pins on commission basis, but doubt if I’ll get rich at it. I am thinking of making some items of my own to sell to furnish myself with a little pin money as it gets pretty tough to be unable to buy anything for either myself or Ronnie. Wish I could figure out some way of going to work, but guess that’s out. I feel so inadequate sometimes knowing I’m not doing a thing for the war effort. Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

30 Jan January 30, 1945

Posted at 14:37h in Letters

V-mail card from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Jan. 30, 1945 England Card, main message: Though an ocean and many miles separate[s] us[,] your devotion, love, and kindness are very near and dear to me on this St. Valentine’s day. May God bless you and Ronnie and keep you both will and safe during my absence ---- Daddy Side message: Love From Your Husband ...

30 Jan January 30, 1945

Posted at 20:33h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: George W. Shonkwiler Jan. 30, 1945 Wed. 9:10 P.M. [page] 1 Dearest Wes, Sorry I slipped up on writing yesterday, but couldn’t think of anything to write, and I was pretty busy last night making a new pr. of overalls for Ronnie to wear to a luncheon at Edith’s today. He just didn’t have a thing to wear. They’re a red scotch plaid and he wears them with a white blouse. He looks like a cute little Scotchman! Of course our Ronnie looks cute in most anything, with probably no credit to my sewing, or is it? I was about to drive Muriel to the station yesterday A.M., and also planned to put an add in the paper for my remaining 3 pups, but in spite of the new battery, spark plugs, and points the car refused to start, so will have to keep the pups another week as the ad deadline at the Index Is Tues. noon. I called Packard and Dan Regan came out and replaced 2 spark plugs again and it started. I asked how come more plugs [were needed] when they just put in 6 last week? He gave some excuse about the gas one gets now burned them out. See you in next letter, all our love, Mom and Ronnie Next letter Jan. 30, 1945 Wed. 9:30 P.M. [page] 2 Dearest, Say, by the way you’re really having luck with the cards, or is it skill? What is that old saying, "Lucky at cards, unlucky at love." I hope that isn’t true in your case. If so I hope then no fault of mine because if it remains true after you get home, I can honestly say, I love you more every day, and hope you feel the same way. Maybe it’s because "absence makes the heart grow fonder," but I don’t think so. It may be because in your letters you are more <eloquent> than otherwise, altho still a bit reserved in both letters and person, too. Edith said today they got a V-mail dated Jan. 17th from you. [I] Just heard wonderful news over the radio. Russians are only 63 miles from Berlin, also that the 3rd Army are again in Germany. Oh, how I hope and pray that they get there and soon. Keep your chin up, darling and it won’t be long before you and I and Ronnie will be together again. Francis tells me Al Evers is on his way overseas, his address: Pvt. Alfred T. Evers, 36902906, 228 GEN Hospital, ARO 17604, % Postmaster, New York, New York. Margaret’s brother left Camp Ellis in the same Medical Corps. Well bye now and good night. I love you, Mom and Ronnie. Next letter Jan. 30, 1945 Wed., 9:35 P.M., [page] 3 Darling, Here I am again! We’re still having cold weather. The forecast is 5 degrees below for tonight. Do you know that we’ve had snow on the ground since Dec. 1st, and it hasn’t melted at all, but just keeps snowing and getting deeper with each snowfall. I guess it’s somewhat of a record for Chicago. My Nov. 21st to Dec. 21st gas bill was $38.64, and Edith says her current bill for Dec. 21st to Jan. 21st is $39, so imagine mine will be $50, because she keeps her house cooler than ours, and I also have the upstairs. Isn’t it awful? I suppose I’ll get my bill tomorrow, and I hate to see it. I rec’d your Jan. 15th letter with M.O. [money order] yesterday, and can certainly put it to good use. It’s just in time to pay my state and city car license and my insurance. I wish I could save it, but if you were here you would understand that as impossible. I’m already beginning to wonder about taxes and Ronnie insurance, which will come soon. No use worrying however as things will work out somehow, I know. My only big worry is your health, good night, Darling, Mom and Ronnie ...

01 Feb February 1, 1945

Posted at 18:55h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Feb. 1, 1945 Thurs. 7 P.M. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, No news today and no mail so I thought I’d just tell you "hello" and send you one of our Stars and Stripes to read. Once or twice a week we have a four-page issue like this one. The S and S is read by all GIs here enthusiastically but it’s still not like the old hometown newspaper. Saw a pretty good show yesterday. The Barn Dance. Just like WLS Barn Dance in Chicago. Hope I get some mail tomorrow. Until then all my love to both of you. Hi Ronnie Daddy ...

01 Feb February 1, 1945

Posted at 20:37h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 1, 1945, Thurs 10:20 P.M. My darling, How are you today, honey? Feel better or do you still have those terrific headaches? I hope you don’t, as I know how they feel, because I used to have sinus headaches, but since I spent those few months in California, I haven’t had them. Either the change of climate or the fact that I had my tonsils out just before that cured me. I don’t know which, but it’s certainly a relief. If you still have trouble when you get back we’ll have to move to Arizona, I guess. The real estate business should be good there, too. I haven’t had a letter for two days, so I’m on pins and needles and live for the mailman’s visit. I accomplished a few things today, such as scrubbing kitchen and bathroom floors, and kitchen cabinets, table and chairs, polished our silverware, and with meals and dishes had a full day. Tomorrow, I hope to clean the basement as much as I hate the job. Ronnie is still just as thrilled with his trains and tractor as ever. We can’t wait to <? welcome> our Daddy. much love, Mom and Ronnie. Next page. Feb. 1, 1945, Thurs 10:35 P.M. Dearest, It won’t be long before it’s Ronnie’s birthday, and this time guess there’s no chance of his Daddy’s being here to celebrate with us, as he has been the past two birthdays. I doubt very much if I’ll have a party for him, but if I do it will be a very small one. In either case he will have a birthday cake, however, even if I have to bake it myself, and we’ll be thinking of you every minute, that you can be sure of! Sometimes I get the blues terribly, thinking how unlucky we are being apart for so long, and then again I thank God that I’m lucky enough to have you alive and with good hopes of a future reunion sometime in the future. That is a 100% more than some girls have to look forward to and I’m truly grateful, even if I complain at times. We should both be thankful that Ronnie is well and full of pep, too. So counting our blessings I guess we should be glad. Good night, honey, love always, Mom and Ronnie. ...

02 Feb February 2, 1945

Posted at 15:53h in Letters

letter from: Prairie Farmer radio station to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Noteworthy: wounded in action copy HEADQUARTERS COMMUNICATION ZONE EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS UNITED STATES ARMY RELEASE OF RECEIPT NUMBER 59782 CHICAGO SOLDIER WOUNDED IN GERMANY CENSORED THE 187TH GENERAL HOSPITAL, ENGLAND --- With an infantry unit assigned to knock out enemy installations with electrically fired demolitions, Private George W Shonkwiler, 34, of 11007 South Union Ave., Chicago Illinois, had crawled up to an underground fort in Germany and planted a charge that blasted the entrance shortly before he was wounded by shrapnel. He is now convalescing at this United States Army general hospital in England. "He is well on the road to recovery," said his ward surgeon, Captain Wallace P. Sheely of Gulfport, Mississippi. "We blew-up the entrance to that underground labyrinth which brought 102 Nazis scrambling out with their hands up," Pvt Shonkwiler related. "We turned them over to guards and were moving to another objective when I was hit by shrapnel." Under heavy shelling at the time and surrounded by snipers, Pvt Shonkwiler was evacuated by the medics through a gauntlet of energy fire. "They backed a jeep up to a pill-box we had captured, loaded us on, and took off like hell," he smiled. "We tore along those roads with stuff exploding ahead, behind and beside us, but we made it." He has been awarded the Purple Heart. His wife, Mrs Alice Shonkwiler, and son, Ronald, three, reside at the Union Avenue address. END ...

02 Feb February 2, 1945

Posted at 20:23h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler February 2, 1945 7:45 P.M. Friday Noteworthy: V-mails get there faster. Hye, honey, How is my sweetheart today? Do you know that today, Groundhog Day, is an eventful one in your life and mine? Today is my Mom and Dad’s wedding anniversary and they’d have been married 38 years if they were living. If my daddy hadn’t popped the fatal question I wouldn’t be writing you now, would I? And if you hadn’t done the same thing, I reckon we still wouldn’t be writing one another. In other words, guess that question (plus the right reply of course) is what makes this old world go round and round. I’ve been writing you V-mails this week since you said they got there sooner, but tonite page 2 I felt like writing a nice, long letter, so I hope you won’t mind if it gets there a little bit late. Even when I write several V-mails the space is so limited I can’t seem to go into detail at all and everything seems so cut and dried. Right now, tho, I’d appreciate even one V-mail from you, as I haven’t had a nice letter since Monday, which was dated Jan. 19th. It was warmer today (20 degrees) so I hauled the car out of the garage and picked Mrs. Dixon and Bobby up and the four of us went up the Avenue. I also went down to 95th and Stony Island and had my car tested for the safety sticker and passed with flying colors. Isn’t that wonderful? After that I went to the Electric Co. and raised the devil, ’cause my electric bill was $8.60. He said pgge 3 that they’d send a man out to check on it, but said the increase from $5.14 (last month) might have been due to the blower in the gas furnace working so much more during this cold sub-zero weather we’ve had. Altho I didn’t tell him so I s’pose, or rather the refrigerator repairman told me, Mrs. Page’s refrigerator has been running up my bills at least a dollar per month because of the shortage of ammonia or refrig. gas in it. I told you, didn’t I, that the bill for repairing it was $8.05. The Pages came thru with $5.00 [3.05] of it. Wasn’t that nice, as they didn’t have to. I also paid my life insurance today ($8.16) and bought $6.00 worth of groceries. It seems Ronnie and [I] page 4 still have to eat, regardless whether we have boarders or not. That’s one thing Ronnie gets is plenty of good nourishing food and cod liver oil, even if we do go ragged. Sure is a good thing I have a lot of old clothes and can remodel and wear in spite of not being able to buy new ones. I don’t mind, as I do very little that requires nice clothes nowadays. I’ll buy myself a new wardrobe when my sweetheart comes home and can comment on how nice I look. At least I hope you’re not the type that ignores his wife’s clothes and never comments on them. After doing all our chores we went to the Roseland Cafe for page 5 lunch. Ronnie sure is an ornery little dickens when Bobby’s along, or is it that I think Ronnie can do no wrong on his own? We (Ronnie and I) had pork loin roast, french fries, gravy, macaroni and cheese, green beans, clam chowder soup, bread and butter, crackers and coffee or milk and chocolate ice cream. Between the 2 of us (that is, for Ronnie and me) it came to 97 cents. Tonight we had cheese and ham on [a] bun with hot chocolate, some pineapple juice and Ronnie had an apple, too. This noon makes about the third meal I’ve had in a restaurant since July, so you see I don’t get around much anymore. Guess you don’t either, at present, so guess we’re page 6 even. I’m so glad you’re getting good food at the hospital. I feel more like eating myself when I know you’re well fed. Have you gained back any of the weight you lost in combat? As Ronnie didn’t have a nap today, he was in bed before 7:30 tonight. He slept until 9:15 this morning so I guess he won’t suffer too much without a nap for one day, anyway. He and Bobby had a lot of fun as they insisted on riding [in] the backseat together. Their yelling almost drove me wild. I was in a store while Mrs. Dixon waited in the car with the kids and she said when he saw me come back, he yelled, "There comes my Mommie. I love her." Guess he does like his page 7 Mommy after all. I hope he always feels that way. Maybe if his Daddy keeps on loving her, he will too. Anyway if we do have differences I hope it won’t be in front of our kiddies. Hey, what am I saying! Guess I’ll have to wait a while, won’t I? At least legally. Oh well maybe someday! However, that’s not a promise! You know how we women change our minds. Tomorrow is Saturday, and just another day. I keep thinking of how you and I used to get all decked out to go out for dinner at the Nantucket (or the Barn), except when we were broke, when we ate at the Greeks. And how we’d go downtown to page 8 see a show, and in the wintertime I’d get cold and cuddle up closer. Altho after we were married, of course, you paid attention to your driving, rather than put your arm around me. You’d better change that when you come back! After all you didn’t need two hands to drive when I was single. Anyway, it was nice just to be doing things together, where now the best we can do is wait and hope we can do those things again soon. Well, goodnight, Darling, and please dream just one little dream of me tonight and then tell me about it in your next letter. We love you, honey and can’t wait to have you with us again. Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

03 Feb February 3, 1945

Posted at 12:51h in Letters

card from: Casualty Branch Adjunct General’s Office War Department Washington 25 DC to: Mrs George Shonkwiler 4129 USA Hospital Plant APO 298 % Postmaster New York N.Y. Dear Mrs Shonkwiler I am pleased to inform you that on january 26 1945 your Husband Pvt George W Shonkwiler 36902856 was convalescing Diagnosis: shrapnel wounds of face and both forearms Very Truly Yours Newman S. Matthew Captain Mc ...

03 Feb February 3, 1945

Posted at 20:26h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler February 3, 1945 Sat. 9:45 P.M. Noteworthy: Mom has disagreements with her brother. Darling, Another Saturday night all by my lonesome. Even the Pages are out. Honey, you wouldn’t be safe with me if you were here now. I’d just hug you to death and who knows I might even bestow a kiss on those lips of yours. Gee, honey, I am dreaming, aren’t I? Say, by the way, how is Captain Wallace Sheely these days? He’s your ward surgeon, isn’t he? I understand he’s from Gulfport, Mississippi. How do I know all this? Honey you’d be surprised! No, the War Department didn’t tell me! By the way, I didn’t know you page 2 were 34 years old. I understood you’re only 33. Trying to make me think you are a younger man than you are, huh? I don’t know if I can forgive you for that! Well, now that I’ve got you all excited and curious, I’ll tell you how I learned all this. This morning I received a letter from the WLS radio station, it read as follows: Sunday, 9:00 P.M. Hq. Communications Zone ETA U.S. Army censored Chicago soldier wounded in Germany The 187th General Hosp. England -- With an infantry unit assigned to knock [out] enemy installations with electrically fired demolitions, Pvt Geo. W. Shonkwiler, 34 of 11007th S. Union Ave, Chicago, had crawled up to an underground fort in Germany and planted a charge that blasted the entrance, shortly before he was wounded by shrapnel. He is now page 3 convalescing at this U.S. Army General Hospital in England. "He is well on the road to recovery," said his ward surgeon, Capt. Wallace P. Sheely of Gulfport, Miss. "We blew up the entrance to that underground labyrinth which brought 102 Nazis scrambling out with their hands up." Pvt Shonkwiler related, "We turned them over to guards and were moving on another objective when I was hit by shrapnel." Under heavy shelling at the time and surrounded by snipers, Pvt Shonkwiler was evacuated by the medics through a gauntlet of enemy fire. "They backed a jeep up to a pillbox we had captured, loaded us on and then took off like hell," he smiled. We tore along those roads with stuff exploding ahead, behind and beside us. But we made it." He has been awarded the Purple Heart. His wife, Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler, and son, Ronald, three, resided at Union Avenue address. page 4 After I read it I called the WLS [station] and was anxious to hear if it had been broadcast. The girl there said several of these releases had been rec’d and as they had no opportunity to broadcast it, a couple of the office girls (who also had husbands in service) took it upon themselves to send them to the wives of the men. She said she hoped it wouldn’t cause them any trouble, as they had no official sanction as to sending them to us. So maybe you’d better mention this to any officers there. I’m going down to the draft board tomorrow to see if Edith Kuester will lend me a typewriter so I can send copies of the above to all your folks. As I started this letter last night the Pages came home and later came down to visit, so I page 5 had to put the letter aside until today. I’ll make this a long letter to make up for it O.K.? Edith called yesterday and insisted Ronnie and I go to Sunday school and church with them today, so as I couldn’t think of a good alibi, I said we would. This morning as we were all set to go, Ronnie threw up his breakfast, so I called Edith and she brought a fever thermometer to take his temperature on their way to church. We found it normal, so altho it stopped us from going to Sunday school I didn’t worry too much about him. The Hayes[es] stopped over again today at 3:00 o’clock and by this time Ronnie was playing with his trains, football, etc. I’ve kept him on a fruit and liquid diet, however, and kept page 6 him in bed all morning and then he had an afternoon nap, and then got up and has been fine ever since. Maybe he just ate his breakfast too fast. He’s been sound asleep since 8:00 o’clock, so I think he’ll be fine in the morning. I guess he’s entitled to having an upset stomach once in a while. Look at his Daddy! While he was eating his supper last night, Mr. Page brought down a dish of candy mints and just before he went to bed he grabbed a handful. I tried to get them back, but instead he popped them all in his mouth at once, the little dickens. So all in all, that was probably why he had a bellyache. I never let him have candy, so when he gets a chance page 7 he tries to make up for lost time. The Hayes[es] left at 8:00 o’clock tonight after I served them a cold lunch, consisting of peach and lettuce salad, cheese and bacon sandwiches (broiled), ham sandwiches, and chocolate cake (that I made today) and tea. Murray and Marge were coming over this afternoon but the roads were so slippery they didn’t want to attempt it. First thing this morning it rained on top of all the ice and snow we already had; then it hailed; later it started to snow and I think it still is. The Pages were going to Rogers Pk today, but when he went out to start his car he found ice a 1/4" thick on the windshield, page 8 so he called a cab. The Cab Co. said they weren’t sending any cabs out as it was too dangerous driving. They ended up by taking a streetcar to the I.C. then the "L" out to Rogers Pk. One thing about Chicago is that if you don’t like the weather, just wait 10 minutes, and presto! it changes. Imagine rain, hail and snow in one day. We also had some sunshine this afternoon. I intend to get to bed early tonite ’cause at 12:30 last night the Pages invited me up there for cheese, crackers, cake and coffee and somehow I didn’t get to bed until 1:30 A.M. and slept very fitfully the rest of the night and got up at 7:45 to get ready for church. (Which was a waste of sleep as I didn’t go anyway.) I hear there’s a Swedish Lutheran Church at 113th and Union, so I think page 9 I’ll go soon and perhaps Ronnie can start Sunday school there. I understand they have a nursery for children during church services too. Perhaps when you get home, honey, I can even persuade even you to go to church. I hope so! March told me today that Smith had asked Murray to work there on Wed. nights and if any prospects came in Murray could sell real estate. I don’t know how Murray will stand it not getting to bed 9:00 every night. Wonder if he will sell anything? Nowadays if you’ve anything to offer it must be easy to get a buyer. While Hayes[es] were here tonight, Chuck and Betty called long distance and asked how you were and also said they were praying page 10 every night for your safe return. They talked all together at least 20 minutes. Sure was nice to talk to them and know they think of us too. In spite of our disagreements, I know if I ever need anyone, Chuck is there and will help me thru. I know he can’t control his temper at times, but I can forgive him because I use to be the same way, but I think I’ve learned to control mine at least some. Chuck said he’s joining the Masons. Do you think that’s a good thing? I know Elinor’s folks and brother belong, altho her brother didn’t until he got in the Army. He said it helped him in many ways even in England and he was accepted by the Masons there, too. page 11 Have you rec’d any pkgs since you’ve been in the hospital? I have mailed several since Christmas time to the hospital address. Of course they contain candy and with your stomach, perhaps you can’t have it. That would be ironic! Judy is regaining her girlish figure now and since I gave her a bath, brushing and trim last week, she looks pretty nice. Of course, I used my own shampoo on her, she should look nice. The people who moved into Dr. Elliott’s house (an elderly couple) have a dog like Judy. (I wonder if it’s a male? hmm!!) When Muriel came over last Monday she saw it and tried to make it come with her, thinking it was Judy who had strayed. Did she feel silly when page 12 she found Judy here when she came in. Chuck reassured me over the phone tonite saying he understood the Army doctors would do all in their power to fix up your skin, ulcers, etc. and that they have all the drugs (new and old) to work with that the civilian doctors find unavailable. I hope so, and I have a premonition that you will be home soon, either because of a medical discharge or the end of the European war. I hear the Germans are pretty frightened, as the Russians are only 31 miles from Berlin. Goodnight, Sweetheart and remember that soon is none too soon for us to welcome home our Daddy, Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

04 Feb February 4, 1945

Posted at 14:59h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Monday Feb. 4, 1945 10:00 P.M. Noteworthy: Mom gets card about Dad’s being in the hospital. My darling, I’m rather worried as to why I haven’t heard from you for nine days now and that’s a long time for me to be held in suspense. I did get a card from the Casualty Branch in Wash., D.C. that you were convalescing on Jan. 26th from shrapnel wounds of face and forearms. Your last letter was dated Jan. 19th, so at least I know that 10 days ago you were still in the hospital. I didn’t go out of the house today and did sew on the red wool jersey blouse for which Edith Hayes gave me the material at Christmas. In fact it’s all done but the buttonholes. Ronnie seems perfectly well today and has eaten 3 good meals without losing a one, so guess he just had an upset stomach yesterday. I’m so glad he’s O.K., as I’m so worried when he shows any signs of not being up to par. I had a cup of coffee, cheese and crackers and cake (my donation) upstairs tonight. Guess they thought I looked lonesome again. Did I tell you they insisted on paying $5 of the $8.05 bill for repair of their refrigerator? Nice, I think? Good night, Darling, I’m going to bed early tonight. All our Love, Mommie and Ronnie ...

06 Feb February 6, 1945

Posted at 20:25h in Letters

V-Mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 6, 1945 Tues, 3:00 P.M. My darling, I wrote Feb 4 instead of 5th on last night’s V-Mail, by mistake - sorry! No mail yet! I get the blues so bad when I don’t hear from you. There’s still another delivery this afternoon so maybe I’ll get a few letters then. How are you, honey? That ole stomach still giving you trouble? Just tell them that all it needs for a cure is some of your Mommie’s cookin’, and tell them to send you home pronto! I finished my red blouse today and it fits pretty nice, if I do say so. Muriel’s brother-in-law (from Rkfd) called me today on the phone. He’s here in the loop competing in the Pocket Billiard Tournament. Mrs. Page asked Ronnie and me to have dinner with them upstairs tonight, which is nice, as I do get lonesome eating by myself every day. Of course Ronnie keeps up a steady chatter, but although he tries he can’t completely take the place of an adult. I keep hoping you’re on your way home, but guess I’m letting myself in for a big letdown. Ronnie is sleeping right now and has been busy with his trains all morning. Last night he asked Mr. Page, "where’s daddy?" Good luck and all our love, Mom and Ronnie ...

06 Feb February 6, 1945

Posted at 19:05h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Feb 6, 1945 Tues. 9 P.M. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, This has been my first full day as a medic for the 187th General Hospital. Not such a bad day at that. I start at 7 A.M. have plenty of time off for lunch and dinner, and finish at 7 P.M. I’m a ward boy. There are two for each ward per shift. So far I am to be relief ward boy I guess. That’s not bad because that way I will get more of a chance to get acquainted with more of the personnel. A ward boy, as you might guess, keeps fires going, cleans [the] ward, helps make beds, [changes] bed pans, etc., and many other small things. None so very hard and so far there isn’t too much to do. Most of the regular ward boys get to be T5s and T4s. Not such a bad rating but I don’t know how long it takes to get one. Naturally I would like to get a rating someday but regardless I consider myself fortunate page 2 in getting assigned here instead of being sent back to combat. Today has been a very good one from the mail standpoint too. Four letters from you, one from Holmes, Wessilius, Gladys and Forrest. Besides your letters had Norma’s and Forest Letters enclosed. These were all Jan. letters so you see now I am pretty much up to date with most everything. And it’s a pretty nice feeling to know you and Ronnie are both well and still getting along all right. I am a little worried about the car though. I am afraid it might be frozen up and possibly damaged in some way. I think there was a two year guarantee with that battery. Murray should know all about it. He got one at the same place at the same time. Sorry to hear you haven’t done as well as you expected with the pups but [I] think you have already done pretty well. I finally got Dick’s full address, will try to write him again. Sounds like he got a pretty good deal. Forrest also sent me all the dope about himself and looks like he is doing page 3 all right, too. Maybe we will all get home safe and sound some day yet. That will really be nice, won’t it? The news from the Russians is very encouraging tonite. They say they are across the Odor on a 50-mile front So[uth] of Breslau. That looks very good to me. Well I have moved into my new home today and tonite I am writing this letter in it. There are sixteen men in the hut - one of those elongated <? teri> affairs like I had in last fall. Only this one is fixed up much nicer and there is a much homier aspect about the whole thing. We have a radio, a good sized stove, and <? rotter> beds - double deckers with steel straps for springs and a straw mattress. However, they are much better than the cold ground, bare floors, and what have you. Really we don’t have it so bad. I am bunking with a bunch of cooks and so far they have been exceptionally nice. This outfit has been in England almost a year now, and everyone is anxious to get the hell out of England page 4 and go back home. I’m sorry to disappoint you in not coming home at this time but I’d much rather be here a little longer and come home safe and sound than come home now crippled. That boy I told you about who was going home and was going to call you[,] he’s has had a little trouble and his going home was delayed. However he probably will be leaving soon now and he still is going to call you. Well my dears, this may be a little short but I have much to do yet before lights out and I had better get started. Sounds like my little Ronnie is doing alright and getting to be a big man. Had wanted to buy him something for his birthday but didn’t get out on a pass yet so I am trying to make him something. It probably will arrive there a few days late but maybe he won’t mind. Anyhow give him a big hug and kiss for Daddy and happy birthday my little boy. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

06 Feb February 6, 1945

Posted at 15:06h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 6, midnite page 2 Hello, Honey, (No letters this P.M. either.) I’m so sleepy, I should be in bed, but instead I’m writing my second V-mail today to my husband. We (Ronnie and I) had dinner upstairs tonite. It was very good and consisted of meatloaf, fresh buttered green beans, boiled potatoes, gravy, pickles, bread and jam, apple pie (homemade) and coffee. After dinner they suggested a show. Ronnie heard it mentioned, so he insisted on going too. He was very good and sat on Mr. Page’s lap during the entire show. We saw "Janie" [with Robert Hutton and Ann Harding] and "Summer Storm" with Linda Darnell, both pretty good. "Janie" had soldiers in it and reminded me of you, my eyes got sort of "rainy," if you get what I mean! It was pretty nice of the Pages to think of entertaining us, I think. But they’re pretty nice anyway. Ronnie just loves to hear music in the movies. [I] Wish he could start taking some kind of lessons, even dancing. I s’pose that would shock the Hayes to tears. They’re insisting Ronnie and I should go to their church next Sunday. In fact both SS [Sunday School] and church from 10:00 to 1:00, which is too long to sit in my estimation. I hope I have company or something so I can call it off. Goodnight, Sweetheart, and how are you? All our love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

07 Feb February 7, 1945

Posted at 15:01h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 7, 1945 Wed. 12:30 p.m. Hello, Darling, I finally rec’d a letter from you after a 10-day lapse. I was so relieved to hear from you. It was dated Jan. 23, and had Ruth Brady’s letter enclosed. It was heavily censored, however. Two 1/2 pages missing. You ended one page by saying, "as for Gladys spending so much money, I can’t see it" then, the next 1/2 age was missing -- can’t figure out why, as it must have concerned either Gladys or my money. Then you said, "The doctor said my stomach trouble is not caused by -- ", and then the rest of the page is gone. Ronnie was so excited when we got your letter today and said, "What does Daddy say now, Mommie?" It’s snowing again and has been all last night and all day so far. Guess this snow never lets up. We’ve had a continued blanket of snow and ice since Dec. 1st. Imagine? From what you say you’re getting the same, too, now. I just finished scrubbing and waxing kitchen and bathroom floors. This afternoon I’m cleaning the basement. Envy me? I have all my fingers crossed honey. All our love, always, Mom and Ronnie ...

07 Feb February 7, 1945

Posted at 15:04h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 7, 1945 Wed. 10:20 P.M. Page 2 Darling, Since I wrote the last letter at noon, I cleaned the basement, and am I glad that is over. Marge called this afternoon and said she’d be out to see me tonight, as Murray was working at A.J. Smith’s on Wed. evenings and would pick her up later. She was coming from work, so I asked her to come for supper, and she did. We had calves’ liver and onions, french fries, buttered fresh peas, hot rolls and jelly, and fruit jello, cake and coffee. She sewed for a while until Murray came at 8:00. They left at 9:00, as Murray must have his rest. Marge weighs about 10 more lbs. in the time since you left, so Murray keeps telling her she’s too "hippie." I think it’s becoming myself. I wish I could gain a lb. or two. Murray got a letter from you dated Jan. 17th today. He says he’s written 3 or 4 letters to your hospital address, but you evidently haven’t rec’d them as yet. Did you get the income tax blanks I sent? If so, sign and return so you can get a refund. Did I ever tell you I love you? I do. Good night, Mom and Ronnie. ...

08 Feb February 8, 1945

Posted at 19:42h in Letters

Letter from: Private George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler. Feb. 8, 1945, Thursday, 7 p.m. England Noteworthy: evidently Dad was injured on Dec. 4th Dearest Alice and Ronnie, No mail from you since Tuesday, but did get one from H. Jostes, Dad, Tosties, and Martinson’s friend from California. No mail at all tonight. I convinced it all comes over on boats now and that’s why I get it in bunches. Some of the follows here say that they don’t get any in a couple weeks or so, then they get a big bunch, all except the V-MAILs. I think some I get comes over on planes. Today has been my second full day as a member of the 187th Hospital. So far it’s not so bad. There is many other things I’d rather do but then I’d rather be home too. But I can’t go. Heard a rumor today, which if true, may not be so well for me as far as this job here is concerned. However, there isn’t anything official yet so I’m not worrying too much. I still hope the war will end so all my war worries will be over. It’s beginning to look very promising and I believe this time it may be the real thing. I am still working as an extra Page two. ward boy. The work isn’t hard but I’m on my feet a lot and since I’m not at all used to being on my feet that is since last December 4th, I’m finding it rather tiresome. Twelve hours is a pretty long time. I’ll get toughened up in time though and this isn’t the first time I’ve had things a little tough so guess I’ll weather this spell too. The fellows here continue to treat me very nice and they all seem to be nice. We have three in the hut from Southern Indiana and one from N. West side of Chicago. He was a butcher and still is over here. Murray said in his letter that you and Mary had become quite a pair of sewers, or gossipers. He thought probably it was the latter and I can imagine. Well, Ronnie, old boy, daddy’s sores are all well now. And he is out of the hospital, but still in the hospital if you get what I mean. Glad <? Mariel> got to visit you a few days and you got to go Page three. downtown. Guess it is a good thing for you to get out once in a while with the right people, which of course I know are the only ones you go out with. Glad to hear Ronnie and Bobby still get along so well. How did Bobby like my <? saten> line? I finished Ronnie’s birthday present last night and will try to mail it tomorrow if I can possibly find a box to put it in. Things like that are pretty hard to find here. Had hoped I would have something to send you too but still haven’t been off these hospital grounds and you certainly can’t get anything here. Had a number of small things I had been collecting up at the front, but as I told you before, all my possessions were left behind when I was injured, Guess if I don’t go back, I will never get them now. Had one very nice German pistol, I took off a prisoner that I really hated to leave behind. But I’m not very anxious to go back there for it either. Page four. Did you ever get my purple heart? I sent you over six weeks ago now. You should certainly have it by this time. The letters from Norma and Forest you enclosed were pretty nice. I never received their package but did get a letter the other day. I certainly would like to see Norma’s and Forest’s children. It has been over three years now they will all be so grown I won’t recognize them when we do get around to it. Ronnie, too, if I don’t hurry. Well, my dears, that’s about all for this time. Keep your fingers crossed if I can stay here it really is going to be a pretty good break. Living conditions are better than they were at Blanding. So are the meals. All my love to you both always and happy birthday my little Ronnie. Give him three little pats for me and a couple extra to bring me home soon. Daddy. ...

08 Feb February 8, 1945

Posted at 13:37h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler February 8, 1945 Thursday 10:50 p.m. Hello Honey Wonder of all wonders[,] I rec’d 4 letters and a valentine from my honey today. I was so thrilled with the valentine, as I didn’t expect one. Did you get my Christmas cards? Ronnie and I sent several, also valentines, but seems <? rege> address of how early I send my cards you don’t receive them in time. Mrs. Dixon brought the valentine you sent Bobby, over tonight. It was cute, too, and she says she’s going to save it for him. I got a card from Bessie’s Hinkle today saying she wants to be remembered to you and is still working at the Hoosier Ordance Plant. Veda Campbell called me today and also asked for news of you. Edith called and insisted I have a dinner with them tonight, so I did. Had pot roast, spinach, boiled potatoes, spinach and lemon pie. It wasn’t too bad but can’t quite see pot roast boiled in water as she does it and it has very little flavor. Guess I favor my own recipe. The pie was good, however. I’m sorry, I shouldn’t be catty. ’Taint nice! I keep praying every night that the war will be over and you’ll be home real soon. Love always, Mom and Ronnie Leaf two. V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler February 8th, 1945 Thursday 11:15 p.m. Dear Wes, Here I am again. You mentioned in your letter that Mr. Ch. [Chamberlin] had a hard time getting help for his home and office. Wish I had known, perhaps I’d have gone out to live with him last Fall, but now I wouldn’t know how to arrange to go out there at all. It’s impossible to drive with all this snow and ice. I may call him, however, and maybe he can think of something if he still needs help. I can certainly use some money, and I’m not joking. The letters I received today were dated Jan. 21, 23, 24 and 26th. I got the Jan. 23rd yesterday, so I got the 3 letters and Valentine today, my error. Mrs. Page’s brother is now overseas and in England. I understood he was only 24 and I met him and didn’t think he looked older than that, but he is 37. He spent 2 or 3 years in a Florida army camp, until Nov., when he went across. I still have 3 pups. I may sell one of them tomorrow as a man is coming to look at them. Maybe I’ll have to give them away, eventually. I got $15 and $10 for the first two, but spent $4.00 having their tails cut off. Do you hear from Eggie? Good night, darling, and please dream of me, Love Mom and Ronnie ...

09 Feb February 9, 1945

Posted at 20:29h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler February 9, 1945 Friday 8:40 P.M. Noteworthy: Mom is very lonesome. Dearest, Here I am again after another exciting day, all by my lonesome and too darn lonesome! I can remember one of your favorite arguments for marriage was how nice it is to wake up and find someone you love beside you. It certainly was a poor argument, I can see that now, as I still wake up and all I see is a bed, four walls, not a soul beside me. At least when I was single I at least had a roommate to talk to, anyway! Anyone who marries for companionship nowadays is plum crazy. Am I wrong? You just better hurry and come home because I’m getting tired of waiting for that end of the rainbow. page 2 Sure is taking those Russians a long time to get to Berlin these last 30 miles. Guess the Nazis think it’s coming much too soon! Everything happens to me, Darling. Today the bathtub and toilet backed up again and I called a plumber. Another $4.00 for cleaning out the sewer pipe and I just finished paying $4.50 for the same thing a couple of months ago. Now they tell me the catch basin outside should be cleaned too. Aren’t I the luckiest devil there ever was? (Oh yeah?) Just one thing after another, my vacuum cleaner ceased to work weeks ago and I haven’t had enough money to repair it. Both my electric irons are on the blink. Handles off one, rivets and all, and the other has [the] page 3 plug missing, also [the] handle. I bought a broom for $1.19 the other day, but what will I do without an iron, especially when I have a basement full of clothes to iron. I sold another pup today for $8.00. It was for a birthday present for a 6 yr. old girl who had the mumps. The girl’s father also has two sons in the service he said. The girl is the baby and alone at home, so he spoils her, he claimed. My profit on the pup went to the plumber. Ironic, wasn’t it? I still have two left, but suppose I’ll have to give them away. The next time Judy has pups I hope she keeps better company, so I can get more money out of it. page 4 No letters from Daddy today, as the 4 I got the past two days are probably all, until the next boat comes in. You mentioned getting some snapshots and that I looked thin. I weigh about 109 and can’t seem to gain, although I eat three meals a day. Guess I’m not built to be big fat mama. Is that what you want me to be? (Sort of 5 by 5!) Looks like you’re going to be kind of pudgy, so one fat person is enough in the family. By the way, what do mean when you said "That’s what you were afraid of" in reference to my being thin? My trouble isn’t in not preparing meals, just that I never do have as good an appetite when I eat alone. page 5 I’m not too worried, as I guess I work off any excess fat and I don’t want to get chubby anyway. Ronnie’s sound asleep, and after dinner tonight he was so tired he laid down to play with his trains, and when I asked him if he was sleepy he said, "no," but after awhile he said, "yes, I want to go to bed." I took him for a long walk after his nap and then we stopped at Dixson’s where he raced around with Bobby for an hour. I guess he was all in. He really had an appetite, too. He ate creamed dried beef on toast and asparagus, and peach pie and ice cream and a large glass of milk. At 4:30 when we stopped at the bakery the girl gave him a square of chocolate cake which he made short work of. I thought page 6 "here goes his appetite for dinner," but it didn’t seem to affect it in the least. I rec’d three letters today from Elsie Redditi (Beloit); Pearl Taylor (Rockford) and Helen Bethen (Hawaii). Helen is the girl who I chummed with while in Calif. and if I were single I’d probably be in Hawaii too, as she and I were always going there together. She spent 3 yrs. there working for Hawaiian Electric Company before the war. Now she is working as a civilian employee in the personnel office at Army Airborne Headquarters, A.P.O. 953. It sounds pretty interesting. Oh! If I were young and free again! I’m only kidding honey, as I really want nothing more exciting than just having you home to stay. From then page 7 on it’s up to you to make my life interesting. I’m enclosing her letter, as you might enjoy reading it. She censors her own mail by writing her own name in the lower L.H. corner of the envelope. I understand nurses do that, too. Why can’t you? I’ll wager your letters would be very interesting if you could tell all! Mr. Dixon will get his Master’s degree this spring, I guess, as he’s been going to school at DePaul all last summer and 3 evenings per week this winter. I give him credit for sticking to it, don’t you? He seems to have all the ambition Mrs. Dixon lacks. Maybe it’s best if there’s only one ambitious person in the family. Guess I’ll start relaxing. I’m all out of Ertron (ERTRON) or page 8 vitamin D for my arthritis and as it’s $6.00, guess I’ll continue to be out of it. It certainly has helped my back aches a lot and I’m not as tired as I used to be. It’s a shame I can’t keep it up, but maybe I’ll find a way, somehow. If you need anything, honey, be sure to tell me, as I’m all out of request letters and can’t send a thing without one. Elsie Redditi’s husband is with the Navy in New Guinea and she is still running the china and crockery shop with his sister. Guess they’re doing all right, too. I meant to call Mr. Chamberlin today, but with all my plumbing going haywire etc. I forgot. Goodnight, Darling, and dream a nice dream or two. Love and kisses, Mom and Ronnie P.S. Did you get the 5 word radiogram yet? P.S. The War Department said I should write a message of cheer in five words. That’s a hard thing to do Addendum Enclosure Letter from: Helen Bethen to: Alice Shonkwiler 1 February 1945 Headquarters Army Air Base APO 953 Dear Alyce: Well, guess you will be surprised to hear from me after such a long time. Please pardon the delay, as I just haven’t written to anyone except my folks since my arrival here. Mother forwarded your postcard and also the Christmas card. I have been back here in the Islands now for almost four months, and am very glad to be back again. It seems like I now am just beginning to be able to get settled down once more. I have found things here much different than when I was here before, altho the Island is just as beautiful as ever, with its wonderful climate. I guess Ronnie is getting to be a nice big boy now, and how old is he? I am auntie now, as my brother and wife had a nice little baby boy last July, and of course we all think he’s pretty swell. His name is Bruce -- after my brother and they call him "Skipper." I like my job here fine and I am in the personnel office at the above APO #. When I first arrived here I worked a while in the sales office, office of the base quartermaster, but did not like it at all, and was very bored, nervous, depressed, etc. The work I am doing now is very interesting and the people are all very nice and cogenial, which means so much. I live with four other girls here on the base and we have [a] very lovely Quarters -- a 3 bedroom house and we have a nice large kitchen with electric stove and refrigerator. We do most of our own cooking, as it is much better than eating out. I go to dances two or three times a week. Here at the Officers Club they have a dance on one week night with buffet supper and Saturday night dances are always formal with dinner. I tried to get a place to live out at the beach, but the housing problem is very bad over here now. Living out here is very convenient to our Offices, but it makes it bad if we ever want to get into town. We just have to take a day off once in a while when we have any shopping or business to attend to. I hate to spend my day off doing that, as when you come home after a day downtown you are more tired than when you started out. So far have not done very good with my suntan, but hope to be able to get out in the sun more before long. Sundays I have been staying home most of the time, doing my washing, ironing, etc., but I have made up my mind I am not going to do it anymore -- life is too short. It is impossible to get anyone to do your laundry, and you have so much more laundry here on account of wearing mostly washable dresses, slacks, sunsuits, etc. Well, Alyce I shall have to call this finished. Please write soon and let me know how things are going. ALOHA and all my love to you and Ronnie. As ever Helen ...

10 Feb February 10, 1945

Posted at 13:32h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Feb. 10, 1945 Sat. 6:30 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad discusses battle injuries. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Did pretty well with mail the last two days. Yesterday I received a package mailed with my detachment address and had the candy, cigarettes, tea bags, etc. Also a box of powders. Thank you very much for everything. It was all in good condition and the boys in the hut made short work of it. In fact, I put it on a card table we have here, went to my bunk for a minute, came back and it was all gone. You needn’t send any more cigarettes as I don’t smoke the seven packs a week we are rationed. Then today I received nine letters. One from my squad leader back in the company, and the rest from you. This fellow said it had been pretty tough back there ever since I left and was sure I was having things better than they were. Also requested to know when I was coming back as they wanted some more fried chicken. Guess they will have to learn how to fry their own chicken now. Your letters were all old except the two V-mail you sent as one letter. That was written January 26th. That was 14 days ago, which is page 2 still not as fast as you’re registered. One letter was the Sept letter containing that stuff from Indiana U., one had your pictures in the pasteboard frame and one was the card with your picture[,] both very good but I like the one with you and Ronnie better. One letter was the real long one (and very nice one) telling me about Forrest’s visit. And then I received your very nice Valentine’s card. Now you see I really did alright all in one day. However the trouble with the mail here is that it comes in bunches and there is always far too much time between bunches. The rumor I mentioned in my last letter is proving to be just what it was and so tonite once more I feel pretty secure here again. Anything can happen in the Army so I always expect the worst. I mailed Ronnie’s birthday package today and am sending it back in the box you sent me. That box is really making the rounds, isn’t it? Of course I had to Doctor it up a little but I think it will get back O.K. We have had a touch of everything in the line of weather here today, page 3 rain, hail, snow, sleet, and then back to sunshine again. Tonite it is a little above freezing and clear. It is a good thing I am inside practically all the time because all I have to wear is a pair of fatigues and suit of wool underwear. There seems to be a shortage of clothing in the U.K. We get one day off every two weeks. My day comes up next Tuesday. Guess I’ll sleep and write letters all day. Have no place in particular I want to go and couldn’t go in fatigues anyhow. Besides my poker has not been so good lately and I don’t have any too much money. However they say I’ll get paid Monday, and it should be a big one, and then I’ll be back in the doe [dough]. So far the boys here in the hut haven’t done any gambling so I’ll probably change my habits under their influence. Boy, they really go for pinochle though. I’m still working in a ward and not finding it too hard. Have been working mostly in a medical ward and they are much nicer than the surgical wards. If Forrest said they <? akewed> them up in the page 4 Navy sometimes pretty badly he should see what the infantry <? men> do for some [of] our boys and they still live. It’s not pleasant I can tell you. When I just came here I was put in a surgical ward for the first two or three weeks, I’ve seen about as bad as there is to see. It’s too bad that some of the people back home, who doesn’t [don’t] know there is a war on, can’t be where I’ve been and where I now am for just a few days. They would soon change their attitude, I’m sure. The black ink you used in writing your V-mail was very plain. Of course you must realize that we don’t have the choice over here that you have. In fact we don’t always have ink. Is Elinor back with you for good or just a visit? You tell her I know exactly what she means by her best regards and will remind her of it someday. As for me telling the major [Doctor] any thing, let alone what you want well guess that won’t do any good either. What’s this about Rumbolts robbery and where did he ever get that much money? How much did Mary say she lost? If she lost any it’s certainly too bad as page 5 I imagine it is all she had and she is certainly too old to start over again. Must have been a pretty good meal you served when Forest and Gladys was [were] there. Sounded pretty good to your ol’ man too. No wonder Forrest said, I had a good cook. It was pretty nice he getting a ride with Mrs. Cordell Hull. Was she so different from any other woman? I guess he really doesn’t appreciate how lucky he really is. In fact I don’t think being in the Navy now can be so much different than civilian life. Boy what I wouldn’t give to be stationed back in the States someplace like maybe Camp Ellis or Fort Sheridan or even out of it altogether while I’m wishing. Well, my dears, I’m going to try writing a couple of letters I owe to other people tonite so guess I’ll close with this. You know I found out I have to write letters in order to get any. And they are darn nice getting. Of course I would be perfectly satisfied if I just got one a day from you. How’s my little three-year-old Ronnie tonite? All my love to you both, Daddy ...

11 Feb February 11, 1945

Posted at 23:50h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler February 11th, 1945, Sunday 10 p.m. Noteworthy: WLS commendation copy, day dreams My Darling, Sorry I didn’t write last night, but I didn’t feel up to par after a day of house cleaning and so on, plus having a sore throat. I also sanded the stairs by hand, rubbing them with soap and water, and varnished every other step so the Pages could get up and down. Tonight I varnished the rest of the steps plus washing and varnishing around the rug in the dining room. Someday you’ll come home and find all the floors sanded and varnished. Will you be angry with me then? I know you don’t approve of varnish, but with a 3 yr old boy and a dog to track in dirt, the floor needs that protection. Of course page two I’ll wax them anyway, but they’ll look nicer -- I hope! I was able to get some pre-war varnish through Mr. Page. I don’t know what to do about the floors upstairs in the kitchen and dinette. The varnish has completely peeled off, and it’s wearing through to the floor. He said something about having it done, but s’pose I should pay for it, as they paid to have their living room painted (also the woodwork). I’m afraid I can’t swing it, however, as I imagine it would have to be sanded too. The steps turned out to be pretty nice as I sanded all those dark spots out that your wall washer left with his lye solution a couple years ago. I had to do something as the constant use of the steps was causing the wood to wear and page three I can’t very well get carpeting. Furthermore, I guess rugs of any kind are scarce. My trouble now is to keep my dogs and Ronnie off the wet varnish. I sold another pup yesterday for $8.00 to a detective from Beverly who was buying it for his two-year-old son. He was a pretty nice handsome brute about 30 years old. Mmmm! Not bad! I’ll have to go into the dog business, you meet such interesting people. I now have just one left, and he’s the most mongrel of them all, as he has a brown nose and paws, altho black otherwise. The poor thing is so lonesome now and cries all night keeping everyone in the house awake. I tried to get Judy to go down and keep the poor pup page 4 company, but she cares very little for her offspring now. I didn’t receive any letter yesterday, and s’pose it’ll be another ten days before I get any more on the next boat. Gosh, maybe you’ll be on that boat in person. Wouldn’t that be a wonderful dream come true? If you do get to come home, please let me know as I’d like to meet the boat in New York. I’d like that much more than being surprised, I think. I’ve always wanted to meet someone at a boat, and if I met you it would be the thrill of a lifetime. I don’t s’pose you’d be allowed to tell me, so maybe I’ll never have the chance, after all. Rationing being pretty tight now, Ronnie and I really had a page five treat today, as I was able to buy one T-bone steak at Bernie’s yesterday. We had broiled T-bone, french fries, buttered parsnips, and apple pie and ice cream, coffee and milk. I made the apple pie this noon, and it’s not bad at all. If the Pages come home soon, I’ll ask them to have some pie and coffee as a partial payment on the dinner and show they treated Ronnie and I to last week. It’s 10:45 now, so if they don’t get here soon, they’re out of luck, as I must be in bed by 12:00 at the latest. My new ruling! Meat is pretty scarce, I hear, altho Ronnie and I get enough to supply us with all we eat. It’s very seldom one sees a full counter page six of meat anymore. You can’t even buy hamburger anymore, I understand. Things like ox tails, pigs feet and so on, are what the butchers are selling now. I wouldn’t want either myself, nor brains, or sweetbreads either. The only reason I got the T-bone yesterday is because all he had was only the one, and most people want more than one piece or none at all. Sure must be tough on a large family. I can’t complain so far, and wouldn’t anyway. Makes me mad when I hear people griping about rationing. The doorbell rang tonight about 7:30, and when I opened it, there stood a cowboy, big hat, plaid shirt, spurs and all, plus a small bag (travel bag). He looked like page seven he just stepped off a Texas ranch. In a Texas drawl he asked, "Ma’am, can you tell me where at Lowe Ave. is located?" He had a slip of paper with 11040 Lowe written on it. I directed him, and he said "Thank you, Ma’am!", and went on his way. He looked about 27 or 28 and tall, with a dimple in his chin. I was all alone and lonesome. I can’t figure out why I didn’t ask him in for a chat. It might have been right entertaining! I just can’t think fast enough, I guess! By the way, how are those nurses treating you by now? Still getting your back rubbed? My back is so sore from scrubbing page 8 I could stand a good alcohol rub myself. Sure wish you were here to do it for me. The Dr. said no lifting or stretching because of my arthritis, but guess that has to go in one ear and out the other while you’re away at least. I’ll have to wash walls for one thing, and that takes plenty of stretching. Marge made ditto copies of that WLS letter and I’m sending them to your relatives and will also enclose one in this letter. You might compare it with what actually happened and tell me if it’s right. Ernest called yesterday and asked us to go to church and SS again, but I told him I didn’t feel too good, so didn’t want to go. page nine Gladys called the other day, or was it yesterday. Anyway she wanted news of you, and said she may be in next week end to celebrate Ronnie’s birthday with me. I didn’t think to ask about Dick, but s’pose he’s okay and still in Holland. Did you get the address I sent you? Have you heard from him yet? He writes such short notes to Gladys that I doubt if he even writes to anyone else. I’m certainly glad you write nice long letters, as I feel terrible if you didn’t love me enough to tell me about the things you do and think, and so on. I think keeping in close touch with one another is the only way to keep up on one another’s page 10 life, while we’re apart. In fact, I have so few interests outside of home that I’d probably go out of my mind if I didn’t hear from you often, which helps to keep me going. The snow and ice has thawed a little the last couple of days, but this afternoon we got another blanket of snow. Just imagine 2 1/2 months straight with snow on the ground. It’s almost unbelievable for Chicago. Ronnie and I took a walk to Grant’s door this morning. We had Judy with us too, of course. It was nice and bright out today until it started to snow. Mr. Dixon took Bobby and Ronnie for a sled ride this noon. Good night, honey and don’t do anything I wouldn’t, so be good and Ronnie and I’ll keep loving you, Mom and Ronnie. ...

12 Feb February 12, 1945

Posted at 14:35h in Letters

V-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler February 12th, 1945, Monday England. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Just have time to dash off this V-mail before pulling out of here, for the Lord only knows where. You see the rumor I heard a few days ago is true after all, and I’m on my way again. It seems they tried to transfer me direct from a patient to the detachment, which is the sensible way to do it, but the Army says no. I must go through channels, which means go to the replacement depot and then back again - maybe. They are asking for me back[,] but I know of cases where they don’t always get the men they ask for so I’m just waiting and hoping. I got six very nice letters last night[,] all airmail and all mailed the middle part of January. The Christmas pictures, which were excellent and you both look good and Ronnie must have had some Christmas. The pup of pups are real cute. Also Ronnie’s valentine card. Thanks my little boy. Will keep you informed. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

12 Feb February 12, 1945

Posted at 20:35h in Letters

V-Mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 12, 1945 10:30 p.m. [page] 1 Hello, honey, I wrote a long letter last night, so will just write a V-Mail tonight. I’m rather tired too, as I ironed clothes from 9:00 until 4:00 P.M., then went out and washed the car. That was an awful job, as it was just filthy. It was darn cold out there too, although it was in the garage. Ronnie and Bobby were in the backyard playing in the snow and all of a sudden Ronnie started to cry. I looked out and here was poor Ronnie lying on his face in the dirty snow with Bobby sitting on top of him holding his head down. Was I mad! I yelled at Bobby to go home, and around the corner comes Mrs. Dixon. She wanted to know what was wrong and when I told her she took Bobby and made him lay down in the snow face down to show him how it felt. Was it funny! Of course, then Bobby cried too. More excitement! I haven’t had a letter from my Daddy since last Thursday. You better get going and write. Good night Darling, and a kiss and lots and lots of love from Mom and Ronnie Next page. Feb. 12th, 1945 10:50 P.M. [page] 2 Dearest, Here I am again! I’m still so sleepy I can hardly keep my eyes open! I wonder if you could, keep me awake? Better come home, honey, or I’ll never know. I got a card from your dad today asking for news of you and he hopes you’re getting along okay. Said they’d been to Norma’s and that they were all well, but Claudette has been ill. Do you have his new address? It’s 614 5th Street, Oregon City, Oregon. I’m going to ask Mr. Page if the roads are O.K. now, and if so I may go out to Glen Ellen this week and see how things are going out there. I haven’t been there since your furlough. I just finished washing my hair and should set it before I go to bed. I’ve been to a beauty shop just once since July. Aren’t I extravagant? [The] Insurance man relieved me of $4.83 today. That month sure rolls around in a hurry. My bills are all paid, thank goodness, even if I’m just about broke. Hope you won’t have to use my letters to hold over my head when you return. All our love, Mom and Ronnie ...

13 Feb February 13, 1945

Posted at 20:32h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb 13, 1945 Tues. 11:55 P.M. Noteworthy: Once again Mom harps that Dad should get a medical discharge. PreScript When I paid my phone bill today, they offered me a job. Can you beat it? Darling, Here I am the night before Valentine’s Day, and you’re still far away. Why oh why do we have to be apart, now, when we should be making the most of the few years we have left to be young? I’ve been pretty busy today waxing my newly varnished floors. I also took Ronnie to the barber for a haircut. This time I took him to 111th and Wentworth as I didn’t want to drive very far on the slippery streets. When he got out of the chair, he asked the barber, "Where’s my sucker?" The barber said he didn’t have any, and then Ronnie got pretty peeved and kept insisting he should have one. Your barber on the 115th always page 2 gave him one when I went there, and the little Dickens felt he was entitled to it. Guess I’ll have to go to the 115th next time. Poor Ronnie felt cheated! After [all] it’s quite an ordeal having a haircut with no reward. When we came home he slept from 4:00 until 6:00, and at 6:30 P.M. the Pages took Ronnie and me to a pancake and sausage supper at the Episcopalian at Indiana and 111th. We had cottage cheese and tomato salad, pancakes and sausages, bouillon, coffee and fresh pears. Tickets were 50 cents apiece, but Mr. Page paid Ronnie’s and mine. When we got home I had some ice cream, cake and coffee at about 10:30, and after that we were really stuffed. Gene Gallasini, his wife and daughter were there and as page 3 we sat near Gene, there was plenty of conversation. He seems to be doing all right at Brant’s. Mr. Page told me he just got thru selling Marty Root (of Root Bros) a $16,000.00 home in Beverly Hills. The commission on that must have been a nice one. Wish you were home, darling and could show all the boys up. Seems as tho you should be sent home with all your troubles when so many get out with far less. I am getting bitter, do you s’pose? Can’t help it at times, altho I don’t want to be. I wrote to Mr. Chamberlin last night, as I was advised against driving out there today. I’m glad I didn’t, as it was snowing all morning, then rained all afternoon. In fact page 4 it’s still raining. You can imagine how the roads are with ice, snow, and rain. It’s all I can do to drive in the neighborhood. Today is the first day I’ve had the car out in ten days. Isn’t that something? I just don’t get around much anymore. I got a letter from Eleanor Johnson today, which I’m enclosing. Hope she has a girl this time. She’ll be terribly disappointed if it’s a boy. I know I would be, or would I? At least it’s more fun sewing for a girl. By the way how about my having one by a new "test tube" method? I hear that’s what’s "erring" wives are telling their absent husbands when they have blessed events, now. page 5 I also rec’d a letter from Betty Morrow today. Guess her little Robbie is a pretty big boy, now. Ronnie’s had 4 Valentines already. One from Bobby Eichelberger (California), also Bobby Dixon and Donald Evers and Dickie Johnson. Ronnie sure had himself a time at the Church supper tonite. He and six or eight other children were racing all over the place. Barbara (Gene’s girl) was trying to keep track of him, but to no avail. In fact he started to cry when we started getting ready to go home. He wanted to stay. I’m enclosing a letter from Julia. I’d have sent it sooner but lost track of it. Edith told me that Edith Kuester got a letter from you last week. It’s just 6 days since I had a page 6 letter from you. Hope I get one soon. I’m so anxious to hear how or what they intend doing with you when you’re released from the hospital. I still have one pup left. Don’t know what I’ll do with him, as it’s getting big, now. He’s so lonesome and just loves to be brought up here and cuddled. Poor little "feller!" My throat’s sort of sore, so I better hike myself to bed before I come down with something. I bought another $6.00 box of ERTRON for my arthritis. My back has been much better, so, guess it’s worth paying for even if I did have to neglect my electric bill to get it. It’s 1:10 A.M., so goodnight, Sweetheart and I’m still praying for your speedy return. All my love and Ronnie’s too, Mom and Ronnie. Addendum Enclosure Sun. Feb 11th, 1945. Dear Al: How are you? I hope you and the family are all OK. Sure was sorry to hear the news about Wes. Have you heard any further details. Sure wish you would write and let us know how he is (if you know) as we are quite concerned about it. Well I am now waiting from day to day [to deliver my baby (see main letter)] and sure wished it was over with. We’ll write you as soon as it happens. I have 16 more days left. Clarence is home right now on a furlough but he leaves Tuesday for Penna to go overseas. Sure hate to have him go, but what can we do about it. Nothing at all, I guess. How is Ronnie? Dick is just fine. And quite often he mentions Ronnie who lives in Chicago. He also connects Bishops with Ronnie. I wonder why??? Well, kid, take good care of yourself, and please write soon as you get a chance. Love, Eleanor. Wes, Clarence is Eleanor’s brother. By the way this is from Eleanor Johnson. You remember Eleanor, Jack and Dickey in Rockford? Addendum Enclosure from: Julia to: Alice Shonkwiler January 20-45 Dear Alice: Seems as if taken me a long time to get started but I also want to thank you for our Christmas [gift] from you and Ronnie. I sure love and enjoy the Holly and was so glad you do too. You should see my big tree that stands right in [the] next yard just covered with red berries. Well I decided the little (booties I call them) that you sent me were for my balls of darning cotton? I have asked several people what they <? thot> [thought] they were for and no one had seen any like them or knew what they were. They are very pretty and many stitches page 2 were put in them. It does seem rather strange to be writing you as if I had always known you. But I guess we will just have to get acquainted ourselves as we are the widows of the family and you[,] as I am[,] a stepmother and I hope that Ronnie will neve call you that for I have always despised that word. Truly I do all in my power to take the best of care of Dady [Daddy] Shonkwiler and make him a nice home. And he wanted his own home as much as your Wesley wanted his. I have felt sure that Wesley understands this for he was very nice to me. Well we look every day to hear how wesley is and we pray 3 and 4 times a day for his safety and do hope he will soon be home with you and be able to come out and make us a visit. We had quite a cool night last night. It got down to 34 degrees but is almost up to 60 already this morning. So far me have had a page 3 real mild winter and I hope we will miss any colder. My daffodils were all up to 2 inches and <? ...

15 Feb February 15, 1945

Posted at 15:14h in Letters

Letterfrom: Mrs. G. Shonkwilerto: Private George W. ShonkwilerFebruary 15, 1945, Thursday, 10 o'clock p.m.Noteworthy: Mom talks about pleasing Dad. Darling, I'm ashamed of myself for not writing yesterday, Valentine's Day, but I wentto bed early instead. I just felt about like I did on New Year's Eve, andthat was mighty low. When I feel that way, I'm much better off in bed thanprobably writing a nasty or blue letter to you. You wouldn't want to receivea discouraged sounding letter, would you? I know you must have days likethat, too, so you probably know what I mean. I washed yesterday and dyed the shag rug I received from Chuck and Betty atChristmas. It was peach and I dyed it Dusty Rose, as the wallpaper isDusty Rose and ivory in the bedroom. My curtains are pale page 2green, also spread and lace doilies on vanity. So you see your bedroom isnow rose ivory and green instead of blue as it was when you left. Today, Ronnie and I went shopping on the Avenue. It was actually warmertoday, 44 degrees, which is a change from sub-zero, altho about 3:30 thisafternoon it started to get windy and cold, and is getting colder than evertonight. I bought a load of groceries at the A&P and at Bernie's and afew odds and ends at the Avenue. I also bought $2.58 worth of material tomake myself a wash dress. I actually feel guilty when I buy anything formyself when my money is so scarce. But I have so few things to wear inthe summer, I thought page 3I might save a little, making myself a dress now instead of waiting to buyone later. Materials are so scarce too that I thought I'd better buy nowbefore it's all gone. Someday when you get back, honey, and we have lots and lots of money, I'llgo out and blow myself to a whole new outfit and forget about price tags.(Oh yeah, I can dream, can't I?) It would be a wonderful feeling to do thatjust once, however, after scrimping for so long. At present it doesn'tinterest me in the least, as there's very little sense buying clothes whenI have no place to wear them. I've had the funniest feeling lately as though I'll see you soon. Could itbe possible you might page 4be sent back to the States? My premonitions very often come true, and I surehope this one does. I'm invited by Edith to a luncheon tomorrow at 1:00, and there seems no wayI can get out of it. It's the golden anniversary of the Pullman Women's Club,and is to be quite an event. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow.Mrs. Dixon is letting Ronnie take his nap at her house tomorrow afternoon. I paid the gas bill and telephone bill yesterday, so now all I owe is about$10 at Bernie's and $9.60 electric bill. I also paid the $4.83 Met insurancethis week. I'm down to $7 now, till the first part of March, when I get theallotment again. Of course I'll get Page's rent, which will help some. page 5After putting Ronnie to bed tonight, I made a new pillow top for one of thepillows on the Davenport. It's a rose and green floral, and I put a brownedging around it. It looks pretty nice! There I go, getting conceded. Ronnie and I had lunch at Ford and Hopkins Drug Store this noon. We hadbeef stew with noodles, coffee, milk, and graham cracker custard pie -- allfor the sum total of $0.58. Even that seems a lot to me now. You canimagine how much fun I had feeding Ronnie while he was swinging around onhis stool. It's bad enough in a booth, but they've taken all their boothsout. I s'pose because of the help shortage, who wants to be a drugstorewaitress, when one can make $200 per week at Pullman? Page 6.Ronnie got a birthday present from Norma today. It's a long-sleevedsports sweater. It has a v-neck and front and a wine-coloredback and sleeves. It's a little large, but it won't be long. She alsosent an apron she'd made to me, altho it's not my birthday. It's cute,and I can always use another apron. Can't understand where she gets cottonmaterial, as that can't be bought anywhere in Chicago. Rayons are plentiful,however. Gee, I haven't had a letter for eight days, so any day now, one would bepretty welcome. You ask in one of your letters how much I'd paid allthese people to say nice things about me. Whatever I paid them, it wasn'tcash. I always make good impressions on people I don't care about. Mustbe I'm nicer to people I dislike page 7.than people I like. I wonder why? Either that or they're the people wholike my ugly disposition, could be! Well, just so you and Ronnie thinkI'm okay, is really all I care about, and in your case that's doubtful,as it seems I didn't please you too much in your estimation while you wereat home. After all they say you should never hope to change people afteryou marry 'em, so guess you have to put up with me somehow, as I doubtwhether I'll ever be either a perfect housekeeper, or get ready to go placeson time. I guess if we could ever bridge that distance between us, I guesswe could very easily forgive each other's faults, but the problem is whenwe will get page 8together again? At present you seem darn near perfect to me. Must be'cause you're thousands of miles away. Have you received any more boxes? Long about July, you should be gettingthat heavy wool sweater and muffler I sent last October. Might do you alot of good then. I wrote Gladys and asked her to come in this weekend, but haven't heardfrom her as yet. Ronnie and I went over to see Edith Kuester at the draft board today andgave her a copy of that WLS interview of your combat exploits. She'skeeping one for their files at the board. Well honey, I is sort of sleepy and it's 11:30, so good night, good luck,and lots and lots of love and kisses from your Mom and Ronnie. ...

15 Feb February 15, 1945

Posted at 21:22h in Letters

v-mail from Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler February 15, 1945 England Thurs. 4 p.m. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Nothing new has happened since writing you yesterday but guess you wouldn’t know that unless I told you. Of course I haven’t received any mail since leaving the hospital and don’t expect to for probably a long time now, I’m still doing mostly nothing but waiting around for transportation back to France. Saw a double feature show here in camp last night. Gene Autry starred in one, can’t remember the other but they were both fair. At least they helped pass the time. Oh yes, I was on KP yesterday - not too bad. Tonite I expect to get a pass to go in to this large city we are just outside. They say it’s over a million in population so should have something to look at although I suppose, as usual, all the stores will be closed. I was <? just> four pounds [garbled]. Since I don’t as yet know what my immediate future will be[,] will hold on to it for a while. Hope you can make out without me sending you any more for a while. Did you get the $40.00? It’s very foggy here - not too cold. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

16 Feb February 16, 1945

Posted at 19:08h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England Feb 16, 1945 Fri. 8:30 P.M. page 2 Noteworthy: E.T.O. European theater of operations Dearest Alice and Ronnie: Well, as you see, I’m still writing and still here in this camp in England quite some distance North of London. If I stay in the E.T.O. long enough I’ll get to be in practically all of England. I haven’t seen anything yet that would make me want to stay here though. There is another show on tonight which I hope to see. Ginger Rogers in something, all these shows are free and, although they are usually old pictures they are entertaining and that’s something. Just happen to think you might send me some more Ipana toothpaste and Barbasol shaving cream. It’s about the only stuff that one can do a good job with with cold water. I’m glad to hear Muriel has decided to live with you for a while. I don’t exactly like the idea of you and Ronnie being there alone. Until I get in a permanent outfit again you might write mostly V-mail. Maybe they will catch up with me faster. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

17 Feb February 17, 1945

Posted at 12:41h in Letters

V-Mail from: George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England February 17, 1945, Saturday 8 p.m. page 2. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, There isn’t anything to do tonight. The show on is the same as last night. I saw it, but had seen it before, Ginger Rogers in "Lady in the Dark". They had about a third of it cut out. Could have gone into the city, but know all the GIs in the country would be there, so passed that up. May go in tomorrow though. I’m in the camp library right now writing these letters. It’s the first army library I’ve seen and isn’t bad. We live in tents here -- eight men to a tent. We have a stove so manage to stay warm. Believe it or not but there is no reveille here so usually can sleep until 9 a.m. This can’t be the army, can it? We do have retreat though, which is almost as bad. Chow is not like hospital food, but it is edible. Still don’t know how long I’ll be here, but expect to move any day. How’s my little Ronnie tonight? I guess he knows he will soon be three years old. Love to you both, Daddy. ...

18 Feb February 18, 1945

Posted at 23:20h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler February 18, 1945 Sunday, 7:25 P.M. My darling, Guess both Gladys and I were bad girls last night as neither of us wrote to our husbands. We were too busy celebrating Ronnie’s birthday, prematurely, so you’ll forgive it this time, won’t you? I cleaned the house yesterday and at 3:00 o’clock Gladys called from Gary and asked me if I’d pick them up at Kensington I.C. station. Ronnie was asleep, so I told Mrs. Page I was going to pick Gladys up at the depot. When I got to the car, it wouldn’t start. Was I mad? I finally called Mrs. Dixon and she was kind enough to take me down to the station. After we got back, Mrs. Dixon pushed my Packard about ten page 2 blocks, but to no avail. It was 5:00 o’clock when I called Packard and talked to Ed. I told him I couldn’t get it started after buying a new battery, spark plugs, and points. He said he couldn’t do a thing for me as he was just going home and besides he said he didn’t do any work anymore because he had to think of his health. He said he’d send someone out Monday. Which was a big help when we had planned on taking Joyce and Ronnie to a show. When we were all set not to go at all, lo and behold Ed Lewis rang the doorbell and fixed the car. It seems he had to replace some more plugs. Can’t figure it out, they claim the plugs burn out because of cheap gas that’s sold now-a-days. That’s the third set of plugs in a month. page 3 Ed didn’t charge for ’em, so I s’pose I shouldn’t gripe, but I can’t help wondering whether they did put new plugs in when they charged me $4.80 for the set. It was nice of him to come out on a Sat. night, tho. Anyway, we went to the Capitol and saw a double feature[,] Alan Ladd and Loretta Young in "And now Tomorrow" (very good) and "Doughgirls" (which was too silly). We sat up in the top row of the balcony and next to the aisle, so Ronnie decided to sit on the top step and got acquainted with a cute 18 yr old girl sitting in front of me next to the aisle. All in all he was a pretty good boy, and we saw both pictures through to the end. When we came home we had, cake, ice cream and coffee. I baked the page 4 cake (a three layer devil’s food with pink frosting and coconut) yesterday morning. I put 3 candles on it, and Ronnie wouldn’t blow ’em out until they burned way down, and then with a lot of coaxing. After we ate, we all went to bed, dead tired and didn’t get up until 9:20 this morning. We had breakfast at 10:30, then sat around some and read the paper, etc. We had dinner at 2:00 o’clock. Mrs. Page joined us as her husband went to a card party in La Grange and she was home alone. I made chop suey and rice and we had lettuce salad, coffee, cake and ice cream. We all ate so much, we could hardly walk. I hope my after effects page 5 won’t be too vicious! When Mr. Page came home at 8:00 o’clock, he, Mrs. Page and I finished the rest of the chop suey and also more cake, ice cream and coffee, so if I become ill, it definitely will be because I ate chop suey twice in one day. If I don’t become violently ill, my colitis must be very much on the mend --I hope! Gladys and Joyce left at 5:00 o’clock, to catch the So. Shore. Gladys is attending the Natl Biscuit District meeting 50 miles from Gary with 25 salesmen. She will be the only woman! Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? She had a letter from Dick in which he gave a detailed description of his job. He’s an orientation and page 6 information clerk, which includes some bookkeeping, etc. Says it’s very interesting and says he can’t figure out why he rates such a swell set-up. He’s now a Private First Class. His brother, Les, is a Corporal and still at Blanding. I guess the way to get a rating is to stay out of combat. Ellen was back in Crown Point for a couple of days because of the death of her father, but is back in Florida again with Les, now. The Hases stopped in this afternoon. I s’pose to check up if Gladys and Joyce were here. They had asked Ronnie and I to go to church again today, and I mentioned Gladys coming in. I don’t know what excuse I’ll give next week-end. Someday perhaps they’ll give up. page 7 Mr. Chamberlin called me tonight around 8:30, and asked for your hospital address. He also said he’d written a letter to me, which I should receive Mon. or Tues. Can’t wait to see what he’s written. I asked him if he found office help, etc. and he said he’d answered my questions in his letter. Maybe he has a plan in mind and didn’t want to discuss it over the phone. -- Could be! He did say his wife was up and around again. Before I forget I’ll give you Mrs. Page’s brother’s address, just in case it might tell you if he’s stationed close to you, and you might get to go see him. Mrs. Page is sending your hospital address to him, so if he’s near, page 8 he might drop in to see you. His address is: Cpl. Howard M. Brode 1690762 570th Bobm. Sq (H) 390th Bomb Group A.P.O. 559 Postmaster, N.Y,N.Y. (Now all you do is find him.) 1245 A.M. I’ll finish this in a hurry now, as the Pages went upstairs and I am going to bed right away, quick. Ronnie’s been asleep since 7:15, he didn’t have a nap today, so I put him to bed at 7 o’clock and by 7:15 he was dead to the world. He certainly was all wound up and silly this afternoon. Just overflowing with laughter and giggles. (Guess I’ll nickname him "Giggles." Would you like that?[)] I’m enclosing some snaps[,] they didn’t print the first time, but I think they’re not too bad. Good night and all our love, Mom and Ronnie P.S. Still no letter for 11 days. Better get some tomorrow, or I’ll be sure you’re on your way home. ...

18 Feb February 18, 1945

Posted at 13:40h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler England February 18th, 1945 Sunday, 7:30 P.M. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Thought I might write you an airmail letter tonite, seeing as how I have a little time on my hands. I’m CQ tonite, and things are a little slow at the present, so you benefit. I haven’t done much today again, got up at 9 A.M. cleaned up a little and had dinner at 11:30. This afternoon had meant to go to the show but stopped here in the orderly room on my way and they were short of help[,] so I’ve been here ever since and now will be here the biggest part of the nite. Oh well, I’ll get a 12 hr pass out of it and wlll be able to go into the city during the daytime so perhaps for the first time since coming to England will get a chance to go someplace when the stores are open. It would happen at a time when I haven’t got too much money. I thought for a while this morning that I was finally going to be shipped out but for some reason was passed over so I’m still sweating it out here. Did move from a tent to barracks today but the beds are the same so there wasn’t much improvement there. Our meals today were page 2 the worst I’ve had since leaving the front. You’d think on Sunday they would put forth a little effort but Sunday sure as hell doesn’t mean anything around here. Breakfast, I missed; for dinner we had cold cuts, spinach and rice, coffee and some kind of cherry cobbler. Tonite we had fat half cooked pork chops, potatoes, corn, coffee and an orange. Of course bread and butter. I’m starved right now and it’s only about 8 P.M. And if I get up in time for breakfast in the morning, after working until 2 A.M., it will be a miracle. Guess I won’t starve, though. I know I’ve been hungrier. It’s been like spring here today. This morning, especially, it was quite warm and most of the boys were going around without coats or <? blouses>. Guess it won’t be long now until spring will really be here at that. Certainly thought I’d be home long before this but it looks like at least another six months and maybe more. Certainly not very pleasant outlook is it? But then I’ve been wrong before. Maybe this time I’ll be wrong the right way - I hope. At least I stand a pretty good chance of coming home now page 3 and that’s more than I could say some three months ago. I have a lot of people to write. Most of the letters came just before I left the hospital and I didn’t have time to answer them there. Now I have the time but not the inclination besides I kinda hate writing now when I don’t know what’s going to happen to me and can give them no permanent address. So if anyone should mention about me being a little slow in answering[,] you can give that as one of my reasons. Of course me not writing is no excuse for them stopping writing me. You know letters are about the only thing I get worthwhile over here. How’s my little boy Ronnie tonite and how does he feel about being three years old? Guess he’ll really be a big man by the time I get to see him again. Did you have a birthday party for him? And who all was there? I still haven’t heard from Dick, although I wrote him. Suppose I’ll not hear from anyone for some time now-worse luck. That’s about it for tonite my dears. Have Ronnie give you a big hug and kiss for me and you give him one for me too. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

19 Feb February 19, 1945

Posted at 14:35h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 19, 1945 10 o’clock. Noteworthy: Midnight curfew imposed on places of amusement. Hello, honey, I finally rec’d a letter from you today, which was dated Feb. 6. The last one that I got 12 days ago was dated Jan. 26. I hope you write some in between the two! Maybe tomorrow I’ll get several. I got a letter from Forrest today asking for news of you and he said he’s now a Ph. M 2/c. He’s doing all right by himself, isn’t he? He’d liked to have his family move out, but it would cost $300 for a train fare to ship some of the furniture as he can’t rent out there he’d have to buy. I was so relieved to hear you won’t go back in combat and yet I can’t help but feeling let down, because I kept thinking you’d be sent back here. Can’t have everything, I guess. S’pose we’d better thank God you’re alive, and that’s that! Still can’t help wishing we were younger, so that the time apart wouldn’t see us getting too old to take care when we do see one another. Am I being silly? Think they’ll let me come to England? Love always, Mom and Ronnie page 2 Feb. 19, 1945, 10:30 Darling, Thanks for the nice telegram you sent for Ronnie’s birthday. I was rather stunned when I got it and hated to open it for fear it was bad news, but was very happy when I found it was from our "Daddy." I’ve been pretty busy today washing some of the dirtiest walls and all the doors and woodwork. I’m having a small party for Ronnie tomorrow night. I asked the Hayes, Campbells, Holmes, Dixons, and the Pages. The Hayes are going to church at 8:15, so guess they won’t be here. (Darn funny they couldn’t skip church for once). They want me to come over for supper, but I won’t. Mrs. Dixon has other arrangements, but Bobby (and maybe his dad) will come. I’m only serving cake, ice cream and coffee, so it won’t be too much expense. Just heard on the radio, all places of amusement in this country will be closed on midnight every night from now on to save fuel and light. Sure will be tough on me. Good night, darling, and be good. Someday we’ll be together again. Love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

20 Feb February 20, 1945

Posted at 23:29h in Letters

Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler February 20th, 1945, Tues. (Guess it’s Wed.?) 12:50 a.m. Darling, Guess what event we celebrated tonight? Our son’s birthday. We certainly missed you tonight, honey. I sincerely hope you’ll never again have to miss celebrating with us. I didn’t feel much like having a party with you gone, but felt that you would have wanted me to, so I did. We had quite a gang! In all the Hayses and Joan, the Campbells and Edamae, the Pages, Mr. Dixon and Bobby (Mrs. Dixon had to attend another party), the Holmes, and with Ronnie and me it made 14 in all. Mr. Dixon brought his lights, so we took a few snapshots. I certainly hope they turn out okay as page two that will be the only way you will be able to share the party with us. Keep your fingers crossed and perhaps they’ll turn out. I had meant to send Murray out for ice cream just before we ate, as I had no place to put it if I bought it earlier in the day. But just as we sat down to eat, I remembered and we decided we’d eat without it. I felt rather silly, but guess we had enough anyway. We had an <? Ergo> birthday cake, and I made Devil’s Food cake and chocolate chip cookies, plus some chocolate covered Nabisco cookies, coffee, tea, and milk. We also had individual nut cups at each place. Ronnie certainly got plenty of page three gifts, as follows; the Hayes’ -- a $5.00 bank account (Pullman Bank); Joan -- bag of marbles, crayons and colorbook, and ten plastic soldiers; Campbell’s -- a knit shirt; me -- 2 knit play shirts; Norma (your sis) -- a sweater; Gladys -- $2.00; Dixon -- $2.00; Page’s -- a knit shirt and cute overalls; Marge and Murray -- red corduroy overalls and shirt. So you see our little boy did alright for himself, don’t you think so? All he needed to complete the party was his Daddy. I didn’t ask the Tostis because Marge is having a party for Ronnie and Tommy Tosti Sunday afternoon and I figured they wouldn’t care to come on a week night and besides it would spoil Marge’s party plans entirely. page four I am surprised that the Hayes didn’t leave and go to church after all. One reason they didn’t was because Ernest worked until 8:00 and came here directly from Pullman. Believe it or not, I seated 14 people tonight in our dining room. Sounds impossible, doesn’t it, but we added two card tables to the dining room table and Bobby and Ronnie sat at the little table and chairs by themselves. It was a room full, I’ll say that! Am I glad it’s over as I’ve been cleaning all day for it? I wouldn’t let them wash dishes so you should see the stack I have to do in the morning before breakfast. Oh, me, wish you were here to help. page 5 After everyone had left around 11:00 o’clock the Pages and I sat down and had more coffee and some cookies. They went upstairs at 12:00. I’m enclosing Fuzzy’s letter with this so you can read it, also your Dad’s card. I got a V-MAIL dated Feb. 12th today, saying you’re off to a replacement depot again. I do hope you won’t be sent back to combat as I doubt if I can stand that worry again. One more wire from the War Department would probably finish me, I’m afraid! I’m waiting now for fill in letters from Jan. 26th to Feb. 6th and from Feb. 6th to Feb. 12th. I’m sure you must have sent some between those page six dates. Ronnie and Bobby were crawling behind the davenport tonight and kicked the floor lamp over, what a crash. The big center bulb broke, but luckily the large reflector is still in one piece. Could have been worse. Neither of the kids was hurt, so it wasn’t so bad. That was the only accident of the evening, thank goodness. Well it’s now 1:45 a.m. and I’m so sleepy! Will you forgive me if I stop writing now? I did pretty well, don’t you think so? Now you know Ronnie has passed his third anniversary and had a lot of fun and I know you will enjoy it when you read about his party. Lots and lots and lots of love from both of us, Mom and Ronnie. ...

20 Feb February 20, 1945

Posted at 12:55h in Letters

Card/Letter from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler February 20, 1944. (Page 1) To my husband in the service. Best wishes. (Page 2) I simply couldn’t ever find the proper words to say. How much I love you, Darling, And think of you each day; But still I hope this message can in some way make you see that every day while you’re away you mean still more to me. Mommy (See letter inside) Dear Wes, Well, today is Ronnie’s birthday. Wish you were here. It was so funny this noon while he was eating his dinner they were singing happy birthday on the radio, so we all joined in -- even Ronnie. -- We were so loud that even you could hear us. Forgot to tell you in last night’s letter, I told Ronnie June was coming and he said, "No, June". I asked, "Don’t you want to see June?" He said, "No, June". When she came, (Marge and her mother were here, then too, and they almost choked laughing so hard) he didn’t want her (June) to take her coat or galoshes off. When she got them off, he kept bringing them back to her, also, her coat, and kept saying, "Bye, June. Bye". I guess he figures every time she gets here, we leave. When Elinor and I were ready to go, he let Elinor go out, but slammed the door shut and wouldn’t let me go out. Pulled my hand and got me to the closet and said, "Coat off, Mommy. Hat off, Mommy". He cried terribly. So when we got on the Avenue, I called June, and by then he had stopped or we’d have came back home. He just figured you didn’t come back and wasn’t going to let me get out of his sight. He’s a smart boy, no fooling. Today, Edith and Ernest came while Ronnie was asleep. And he woke up hearing Ernest talking and hollered, "Hi, Daddy", at the top of his lungs. Then when Elinor pulled up in her car after bowling this afternoon, he hollered, "Hi, Daddy", again. He sure misses his daddy. (Even I do.)_ Bye, darling. Love, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. Mr. Page shoveled all our walks today. Nice, huh? ...

21 Feb February 21, 1945

Posted at 17:08h in Letters

Postcard from: G.W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Birmingham, England, Feb. 21, 1945. Noteworthy: Dad spens pass in Birmingham Dearest Alice Am spending two days pass in this city before taking off for rejoin know where. If things work out, I am suppose to be in for a pretty good rest. Right now I am fighting a terrible cold. Hope it doesn’t throw a monkey wrench in the works. This is a pretty nice city. Plenty to do if I weren’t so under my cold and someone else holds me down though. Have seen a couple of good movies and did a little shopping though everything is rationed couldn’t buy much. Love Daddy ...

22 Feb February 22, 1945

Posted at 17:58h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 22, 1945 Thurs. 11:50 p.m. Darling, I wrote letters today to Catherine, Forrest, Gladys, Norma, Elinor, Elsie R., Helen, Norma Nelson, Chuck and Betty and Pearl Taylor, and I mailed them all forgetting to put stamps on them. Am I a dunce or am I? You see, I haven’t changed a bit. I went shopping for Tammy Tostis’s birthday gift, but couldn’t find anything. I bought a pattern for a dress for her, but they absolutely have no cotton on the market. Mrs. Page just gave me <? cyts> of striped cotton material that she bought some time ago. she <? alfuned> money for it too. Imagine? Maybe I can make a dress for Tammy after all. They also treated me to coffee and chocolate doughnuts on an hour ago. I sure love nice treats, don’t I? After Ronnie and I were thru trying to shop, we had dinner at that lunch room on 111th near Mich. Ave. Had roast beef, peas, mashed potatoes, and coffee and ice cream, plus more potatoes with ice cream for Ronnie and it cost us 72 cents altogether. It was a nice eating out for a change, especially as I was out of red points, too. I still have had no calls on the ad I put in Wed. for our last pup. Guess I’m stuck with the little fellow. Ronnie wanted me to tell you he ate all his dinner tonight. I still have heard no news since you left to go <? ...

22 Feb February 22, 1945

Posted at 13:19h in Letters

Letter from: Sergeant Arthur Lane to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 22nd, 1945 Belgium Noteworthy: Dad’s Sergeant says no one besides Dad was hurt in the attack. Dear George, It was great hearing from you. I hope you have gotten a[s] good a deal as your address would indicate. I can’t tell you much about what happened - you were right about the others - No one was hurt seriously. It was a German shell through the window. I was the only one in the next room. Got plenty well shaken and then beat it across the alley for medics. It was just a hell of a break. Thank the Lord you’ll have no after effects from your wounds - I guess in the long run, you got the best break by far. Boy we really miss those chicken feeds - I’ll never forget that particular meal the rest of my life -- That was about the most memorable day in my short career. So long for now. Write again if you can. Good luck now, Art Lane ...

25 Feb February 25, 1945

Posted at 17:04h in Letters

from :Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler February 25, 1945, Saturday night, 11 p.m. (Note worthy: A Vet visit is $2.00) Dearest, Spent this morning cleaning house and then gave Ronnie his lunch and put him to bed and went shopping on the avenue with Marge. Then we picked Judy up at the vets. He said her tapeworm is all gone now. It must be because she didn’t even eat all her meal tonight and she’s been gobbling everything and begging for more. Another $2.00 was spent on her, expensive dog, but she’s worth it and she’s pretty nice, (at least she would be if she weren’t shedding hair all over the house). Marge and I had a <? barleave> and coffee for lunch at People’s store. Murray was washing windows when we went up to the apartment. Guess I’ll have him do mine. Ronnie and Bobby were out playing this morning and Ronnie was mud from head to foot when he came in. I cleaned him up, sent him out again and in half an hour he came back all covered with mud again. Poor me. Guess they had fun, so guess that’s important thing. I love you, honey and Good night, Mom and Ronnie.V-mail____________________________________________________From: Mrs. G. ShonkwilerTo: Private George W. Shonkwiler.Saturday nite 11:15My darling,After Ronnie and I had our supper tonight at six o’clock, we went to see"Since you went away" with Claudette Colfest, Joe Cotton, Shirley Temple.and Jennifer Jones. I wanted to see it for months and tonight the lastnight at the State Theater. It was very good, but it was about a war wifeand children and guess it hit too close to home. And I boo-hooed throughthe whole picture and at present I have a splitting headache. We gothome about ten o’clock, I had not realized the picture would take thatlong. But Ronnie slept from 1:00 until 4.30 this afternoon, so he was wideawake and was such a good boy. In fact, he wanted to stay longer. Thisis the second time he’s been to a evening show since you left, so yousee it isn’t very often I go out. I can’t afford to have a girl in, soI stay home usually. You mentioned Muriel in your letter, but she wasonly with me for a week, so I didn’t profit much I’m afraid. She’sliving on the north side and works for an <? Asf> company. Well, goodnight again and keep on writing as I live for your letters.Love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

25 Feb February 25, 1945

Posted at 20:41h in Letters

V-Mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler February 25, 1945 Sat. Nite 11 P.M. page 1 Dearest, Spent this morning cleaning house and then gave Ronnie his bath and put him to bed. And went shopping on the avenue with Marge. Then we picked Judy up at the vet. He said her tapeworm is all gone now. It must be ’cause she didn’t even eat all her meal tonight and she’s been gobbling everything and begging for more. Another $2 was spent on her -- expensive dog, but she’s worth it, and she’s pretty nice (at least she would be if she weren’t shedding hair all over the house). Marge and I had a barbecue and coffee for lunch at People’s store. Murray was washing windows when we went up to the apt. Guess I’ll have him do mine. Ronnie and Billy were out playing this morning and Ronnie was MUD from head to foot when he came in, then I cleaned him up and sent him out again and in half an hour he came back all covered with mud again. -- Poor me! Guess they had fun so guess that’s the important thing. I love you, honey and Goodnight. Mommy and Ronnie Addendum V-Mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Sat. Nite 11:15 P.M. page 2. My darling, After Ronnie and I had our supper tonight at 6:00 o’clock, we went to see, [the movie] "Since You Went Away" with Claudette Colbert, Joe Cotton, Shirley Temple, and Jennifer Jones. I’ve wanted to see it for months and tonite [was] the last night at the State Theater. It was very good, but it was about a war wife and children, and guess it hit too close to home and I boo-hooed! thru the whole picture and at present I have a splitting headache. We got home about 10:00 o’clock, I hadn’t realized the picture would be that long, but Ronnie slept from 1:00 until 4:30 this afternoon, so he was wide awake and was such a good boy. In fact, he wanted to stay longer. This is the 2nd time he’s been to an evening show since you left, so you see it isn’t very often I go out. I can’t afford to have a girl in, so I stay home usually. You mentioned Muriel in your letter, but she was only with me for a week, so I didn’t profit much, I’m afraid. She’s living on the North Side and works for an Art Co. Well goodnight again, and keep on writing as I live for your letters. Love, Mom and Ronnie. Addendum V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwilter Sat. Nite 11:35 P.M. page 3 Darling, Almost forgot to tell you I got 5 nice V-mails today dated as follows: 1- Feb 15, 2- Feb 16, and 3- Feb 17th and that meant I got the last two in 8 days, which is good service. I only hope these letters will catch up with you as soon. When I read in your letter how one of your buddies lost his eye and some others that have passed on, I just hope and pray that you may come thru just as lucky from now on, and I know you will if I can help it. [Mr.] Campbell was telling me last night the experts are predicting the latest date of the end of the war [in Europe] as Oct. 1st and the earliest April 1st. If a person only knew how long, it would be easier to live thru the next few long months, but guess we’ll just have to keep our courage up and hope for the best and keep thinking only of how wonderful it will be when it’s all over. This is the last letter for tonight so here’s a kiss for you to sleep on. Love, always, Mom and Ronnie ...

27 Feb February 27, 1945

Posted at 13:26h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 27, 9:45 p.m. The letter dated the 18th sure made good time for airmail. Hi, honey, This is number three today. Not a thing of importance has happened since this afternoon, except that I shopped for some groceries and stopped at Dixon’s on my way home. Did I tell you that Bobby got his finger caught in the hinge side of a store refrigerator last Saturday and his fingernail was torn off? Today while I was over there, Mr. Ivan on Lowe Ave. (Tommy Ivan’s dad) brought Bobby home and said his shepherd dog had jumped on Bobby and his claw cut his lip. It wasn’t very serious, altho Mr. Ivan offered to take him to a doctor. Poor Bobby, everything happens to him. I’m glad that so far Ronnie hasn’t had any accidents. We still have one pup, and while playing with Ronnie, it scratched him up a bit, but not seriously. I’ve given up hope of selling it and don’t know what to do with it as it’s growing big. Can’t I send him to you as a mascot? Know what, honey? I got six letters today and a Stars and Stripes and World News, letters dated Jan. 30, 31, and Feb. 1, 3, and 4th. Can’t tell you how wonderful it is to hear from you and I’m especially waiting to hear where you’ll be sent from England. Good night, honey, love, Mom and Ronnie ...

27 Feb February 27, 1945

Posted at 20:23h in Letters

V-Mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 27, 1945 1:10 P.M. V-Mail 1 My darling, I’m trying to make up for last night by writing now and tonight too. I read a nice letter from my honey today dated Feb 3, telling me you’d finally rec’d two more boxes, but it’s hard to believe that the cookies were edible. You must be kidding, as you mentioned, they were mailed in Sept. Tell me for sure if the things are O.K., as there’s no use in my sending things to eat if they don’t get there in good shape. Yesterday Jim and Martha picked Ronnie and me up and we all went over to Holme’s to have another birthday party for Ronnie and Tommy. We got there at 3:00 and left at 9:00 P.M. For supper we had individual meat loaves, potato salad, jello <? pine>, apple salad, olives, celery, birthday cake and coffee. All very good and Ronnie got a knit shirt from the Tostis which was very nice. This makes 4 suits, plus 3 extra shirts, that he got for his birthday. Claude and Joe also sent him a toy dog, and (me a pair of silk pajamas). I wish they hadn’t, it makes me feel as though they felt they had to give me something because we gave their children gifts at Christmas. See you next page. All our love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

27 Feb February 27, 1945

Posted at 20:21h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Feb. 27th, 1945 1:25 P.M. V-mail 2 Hello again, honey, I had written Claude a letter around Ronnie’s birthday because Fuzzy had asked about Claude, but maybe they thought I was reminding them of Ronnie’s birthday. I hope not! In your letter of Feb. 3rd, you mention being glad you hadn’t had to kill as yet. I am too, honey, as I know how you’d feel, in spite of the fact that they may deserve it. If necessary, there’s not much can be done about it, but I also hope it won’t be and that they can find some other work for you to do, which is just as vital. I know by your V-mails of Feb. 14, 15, 16, and 17th, of course that you are headed for France, but hope not back to Germany. I hope the snaps we took of Ronnie’s Christmas party last Tuesday will turn out so you can see them. I’m glad you got the Christmas pictures O.K. The time that will elapsed before you come home again will seem mighty long for both of us, but let’s keep in mind that that homecoming will eventually come, and not do anything that will spoil that event. I, for one, aim to keep my promises and have great faith that you will too, in spite of what people try to tell me, sometimes. I guess that’s why I love you, as I’ve always trusted you implicitly somehow. Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

28 Feb February 28, 1945

Posted at 18:47h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler France Feb 28, 1945 Wed. 5 P.M. page 2. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Some two hours later, but things pretty much the same. Have learned that I’ll probably be here a week or more and will be assigned my future work from this depot, whatever that will be. It is like spring here now. Enroute from the harbor where we landed I saw many gardens being planted and the pussy willows were coming out all along the way. Spring can’t come too soon to suit me as I don’t like living under these conditions in cold weather. The people along the road were not quite as friendly this trip and more or less took it as a matter of course. Guess they were used to GIs by this time. The black market is something fierce. You can sell anything you have, especially in the food and cigarette line. One dollar per pack for cigarettes is nothing. The French seem to have a lot of money but, not much of anything else. Well my dears, will try to write you a nice long letter soon. In the meantime perhaps this will reach you with my new address quicker this way. All my love to you both and I hope everything is alright. Daddy ...

01 Mar March 1, 1945

Posted at 20:37h in Letters

V-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler March 1st, 1945 France, Thursday, 9:45 p.m. page 2. Hello again. Didn’t know I’d have enough to say to start another page, but here I am. They just gave us lights-out warning, so maybe I won’t have so much to say at that. The weather here continues to remain quite warm. It is raining tonight, just like April back home. The big difference is that it isn’t back home. I still don’t know what, where, or when about my new job. But suppose, in due time, I’ll find out. I’m just hoping for the best. I am waiting patiently again for more mail. Certainly hope some of it catches up with me before I leave here. Still think there is a <? bare> chance for the war to end this spring. Well, my dears must <? stop> now, for I’d be writing in the dark. All my love to you both, and how’s my little Ronnie tonight? Give mommy a big kiss for me, my boy Daddy ...

04 Mar March 4, 1945

Posted at 16:56h in Letters

Return address: War and Navy Departments To: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Date: 3-4-45 Hello Again: Jim Jacobs, one of my latest pals is sitting next to me writing his wife, too. I have already written <? five> pages while he has been laboring over one. Every time I turn over a new sheet, he <? tears> his hair. How am I doing kid? Suppose you think it’s about time <? ks> I know one V-mail isn’t much but then you get me and I can’t get any from you, not yet anyhow. Guess I told you I crossed the channel a week ago. Today on a <? living> boat and it was all <? living> even down to the <? tea> and beans breakfast. The channel was very smooth and we landed in La Harvre. That place was really a mass of destruction. What we didn’t destroy by bombs the Germans did before they gave up. one more Geo. V-MAIL ...

04 Mar March 4, 1945

Posted at 14:05h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar. 4, 1945 9:45 P.M. Sunday Eve. Dearest, While at this church tea I met Mr. and Mrs. Brady and a hundred other people, also a Mr. Rogers who was your Commerce Prof. at Indiana. He said he remembered you and Forrest and asked where you were, etc. I also met his wife and daughter. Edith is practically forcing Ronnie and I to attend S.S. and church with them, as she even told the kindergarten S.S. teacher that she’d be teaching Ronnie at Sunday school from now on. I know you don’t want me or Ronnie to join their church, but, what can I do without being rude? I’ve alibied ever since you left. I guess I’ll just tell them that I want to go to a Lutheran or Methodist church and not to theirs. All the people in their church are older than I am, too and if I went I’d know nothing but old people, and they don’t have the same interest I do. How I wish I’d moved somewhere far from Union Ave. when you left. And this constant fencing is getting me down more than you know. I first talked to Marge on the phone, as I hadn’t seen her since last Sunday. Marge said she might be over someday this week, also that her brother is now in France and that his wife had a miscarriage. I’m going down the loop tomorrow afternoon and will meet Muriel for dinner and to shop. I love you, darling, and wish you were here, Mom and Ronnie ...

04 Mar March 4, 1945

Posted at 18:49h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar. 4, 1945, 9:15 P.M. Sunday My darling, First thing after breakfast today Ronnie and I took a walk and mailed the letter I wrote last night. It was so nice today, sun shining and quite warm 44 degrees, just like a spring day. At 1:00 o’clock, Ernest came over to see us, as he didn’t attend church this A.M. because of a cold. Edith and Joan had gone without him. At 2:15, Edith called and insisted Ronnie and I come to a tee being held at church for a member who was leaving for Arizona next week. As Ernest had inquired earlier as to my plans, I couldn’t refuse. We went and sat and listened to different members extol this departing members virtues, etc. and had coffee and sandwiches later. During the program and speeches Ronnie got restless and ran all over and when I tried to make him sit still he’d either yell or cry. I couldn’t wait until it was over. Part of the time Ronnie sat and held a little girl’s hand. It was so sweet. She was a 4 yr. old blondie. I felt just as restless as Ronnie and altho the Hayes intended to stay for church, I asked to be excused, so Edith brought me home and left Ernest there. See you in the next letter. Bye love, Mom and Ronnie ...

05 Mar March 5, 1945

Posted at 23:32h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 5, 1945, Monday 10:10 p.m. Hi Honey, I just finished a V-mail to you so that you’ll get it possibly before you leave the replacement depot. Altho when I think of it, guess you won’t because in today’s letter dated Feb. 22nd, you mentioned being alerted and expecting to leave momentarily. One reason for my writing this is because I want to enclose a letter of Norma’s plus a letter returned to me which I had sent you last Aug. It took them six months to discover they couldn’t find you. This is the 3rd letter that has been returned to me dated in Aug. I wonder how many have gone completely astray and boxes too. Is there anything I can do to check on the boxes I’ve sent? I heard of a woman here who wrote to the commanding officer at each APO address she page 2 had from her son and asked the CO to check on any boxes sent to her boy and gave his new address. Do you think I should do this too or would it be a waste of time and effort? Think it’s worth a trial? I thank you in tonight’s V-MAIL for Ronnies’ and my gifts. But they’re worth another thank you so thanks again. Just don’t spend money on us that you need for your own welfare. I’m glad you enclosed the letter with the compact and puzzles as it was not censored at all. Guess when the censor saw all the adhesive tape, he decided to pass it up. At last now I know you were in Birmingham on Feb. 22nd. intermission. 11:55 P.M. I just finished having coffee, sandwiches and cookies upstairs. I have pretty nice neighbors don’t page three you think? Tippi (our little unwanted puppy) is still with us, altho I’ve spent $1.50 on ads for him. Now Ronnie is having so much fun with him, it’s going to be hard giving it up. It’s the mongrel of the mongrels as it’s black, brown and white with very short hair. It’s cute tho and is such a lovable pup. Right now he’s all snuggled up under my left arm and so contented. Judy and the pup have more fun chasing each other around the room and between Ronnie and Judy and Tippi, this house is a wreck all the time. I hear by the radio the temperature has dropped to 34 degrees and is very, very windy. You said in your letter you have a very bad cold, I’m worried about you. Now be careful as it might page four turn into pneumonia if you’re not careful. I also have a cold and have had it for several days. At night I get feverish and my throat gets so sore I get out of bed and take aspirins and gargle and feel lousy all morning. In the afternoon I feel better and by night I get sick all over again. I’m starting to cough too but only once in a while. A couple days in bed might help but you can just see me doing that. After dinner tonight I cut out 2 of my wash dresses. Now all I have to do is sew ’em. Out of the other piece of material I have, I think I’ll make a robe or house coat. It’s too bad you can’t be here to see me decked out in it when I have breakfast in the morning. You mentioned being put in a company with a group of page five entertainers. What are you going to do? Entertain WACs? I can’t figure it out if, as you say, you have completely forgotten how to play the clarinet. What became of the "Message Center" work you were going to do in France? Or was that just a rumor? Whatever you do, eventually, I hope you won’t get into a combat zone again. I’m keeping my fingers crossed and Ronnie and I are still praying every night that Daddy will come home soon, safe and sound. May that prayer be answered. I’m going to end this letter soon so I can go to bed and relax. I tried to get Ipana toothpaste for you the other day but no luck. I did buy Barbasol and will send a box as soon as I get a more permanent address and page six a request from you. Do you want more powders now, as long as you’re out of the doctor’s care now? Let me know. Also let me know of anything else I might send you. Did you ever get the long-sleeved wool sweater and muffler I sent last October? If not that was a good sum of money gone to waste. Maybe you’ll get it in July. Should come in handy then. Well good night darling and may you have lots of luck and here’s a nice big kiss and a softly whispered "Goodnight, I love you". Love, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. I also saw "Going my Way" some time ago. I liked it too. Thank you. ...

05 Mar March 5, 1945

Posted at 14:04h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar. 5, 1945 Mon. 9:55 P.M. Hello, honey, Received your nice presents and letter today. The compact is darling, and thanks so much. I know it must have cost you a pretty penny, besides your time spent shopping around. Ronnie said to say thank you to Daddy for him. He worked with the jigsaw puzzle all morning and with a little help from me he learned to assemble them perfectly. He assembled them, name[d] the animals, then said, "Now we mix ’em up, Mommie," and then start all over again. Did I tell you that he can button his pajamas all by himself, now, even Bobby can’t do that yet? Isn’t our son brilliant? We had nice weather this morning, 60 degrees, and sunshine, too. Ronnie was out all morning with Judy and Tippi (the pup). This afternoon it rained and turned cool. I could have killed Judy today. She chewed the thumb off my black suede gloves (the pair I wore for our wedding that cost $8.20). Blame me? The only thing that saved her is that Mrs. Dixon was here. I’m writing an airmail letter tonight, also, o we’ll continue then. Good night Sweet heart, love, Mom and Ronnie ...

06 Mar March 6, 1945

Posted at 20:37h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar. 2, 1945 8:55 P.M. Hello honey, Here’s that wife again! Aren’t you tired of hearing from me? Seems I don’t have much of interest to write about, but guess any kind of letter is better than none at all, isn’t it? I spent the afternoon and until 7:30 at night at Jim and Martha’s home. Ronnie and the gals had one grand time. Tommy and Ronnie wrecked things and poor Tosti (the 5 yr old) is beginning to learn to value the toys etc., and has an awful time trying to make them mind her. Ronnie got spunky today and screamed and jumped up and down with rage, but he came out of it when we put him in the nursery by himself. When he quieted down he promised to be good and played nicely from then on. We had noodles with tuna fish, green beans, tomatoes, cake and plums for dinner tonight. I’m not fond of either noodles or fish, so you can imagine how little I ate and I can’t have tomatoes at all. Martha may go to work as dietician at Harvey Hospital 3 or 4 days a week and she asked if I’d like to care for the two girls, from 6:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. those days. I’m afraid I’ll be a wreck in a week, but then again it’s a way of getting a little money. I wouldn’t know how much to charge however. Think I should do it? Bye now, lots of love and a kiss goodnight. Always, Mom and Ronnie ...

08 Mar March 8, 1945

Posted at 13:00h in Letters

from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 8, 1945, Thursday 10 o’clock PM. My darling, Hi, how are you? Still love me or do you still only miss me at times? (Or is that what you said?) Am I trying to pick a fight? Could be. 12 o’clock midnight, Burning the midnight oil again. The Pages came down and we had some of Erga’s donuts and coffee. I’ve just got to weigh myself soon or else, ’cause I may be getting fat and that would be a calamity. With four meals a day, I should either gain or give up eating. I didn’t write yesterday so decided I’d better write a long letter tonight or you might decide some of these Parisians will be nicer to you than I am. (After all, what have they is there and I’m way over here!) ’taint fair. Page two. Mrs. DeYoung visited me yesterday morning again for a couple of hours. She’s giving her time three days a week as a nurse’s aide at the hospital and as they didn’t need help yesterday, she stopped on her way home to see me. She asked to be remembered to you and said she intended to write to you. In the evening, Marge came directly from work and had dinner here with us and later we sewed for a while. I didn’t have a very exciting meal but it was good and when people eat here, they have to eat according to my purse now-a-days. We had a beef stew (with carrots and potatoes), tomato and cottage cheese salad, bread, butter, apple pie (homemade) and coffee. Murray stopped in at eight o’clock after working at Smith’s and we had more pie and coffee. He had taken a couple to look at a house. They left at ten o’clock. Page three. And as soon as they were gone, Mrs. Dixon came over for some sewing advice. She was making pajamas for Bobby and couldn’t figure out how to make the fly in the pants. I helped her and by the time she left, I was too tired to write and with my cold, decided I should sleep. My cold is better today, maybe I’ll recover. We had 45 degree temperature today and most of the snow we had the other day melted again. I almost forgot, I sold the last pup yesterday for two dollars. Not a cent of profit but sure glad it’s gone although both Ronnie and I and even Judy were getting so attached to it. We miss it terribly. All in all, I got $43 for all the five pups. Page four. Of course I spent four dollars to have their tails cut and several dollars for food plus $2.50 for ads but was still lucky to get as much as I did. The pet shop offered me $1.00 apiece for them so you can see discounting the $6.50 for ads and tails, I still got $31.50 more than the pet shop offered through my own efforts. I’ll bet you’re tired of hearing about puppies by now, aren’t you? I’ve been sewing most of today and almost finished two <$ wash> dresses already. When I finish, I’ll have to start making sunsuits for Ronnie provide my eyes don’t give out by then. Can certainly by sewing now as ready-made clothes are so high. A dress I can sew for $2.50 or $3.00 would cost $15.00 to buy and then they’re Page five. very poorly made. And sunsuits for Ronnie that I can make for fifty cents cost three dollars or more to buy and then they’re hard to find. When you get home, honey, I want to take a long long vacation away from sewing, cooking, scrubbing, washing. I’ll sure need it too. Maybe even this summer I can get to a lake for a week or two to rest. As long as I’m home. I always find work to do it seems. I had a nice letter today from Judy, Fred and my Aunt (you remember them, don’t you?) I’m enclosing it so you can read it if you wish. I hope what she says about Ronnie and my role as his mother comes true and that he will never cease loving me because I’m not his Page six. real Mommie, although it’s hard for me to realize I’m not sometimes because I couldn’t love him anymore if he were my own. At least I don’t think so. (If this war keeps up, I will never know.) Time will tell. I went shopping at the Avenue tonight as Mrs. Page was home with Ronnie. He was in bed of course asleep. I bought an overseas <? cartan> and some buttons, thread and so on. and <? danghnuts>. I met Vida, Ben and Edamae while up there. They were shopping for a suit or Edamae. Made me so lonesome for you as I got to thinking how you and I and Ronnie used to shop etc. Ronnie asked today, where is daddy now, Mommie? Wish I knew Good night, honey, and lots and lots of love and kisses for you, Mom and Ronnie. ...

10 Mar March 10, 1945

Posted at 23:26h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 10th, 1945, Saturday, 11:40 p.m. Noteworthy: meat shortage, black market penalties, Mom lays down the law. My darling, Finally had a Saturday night out! Marge and Murray took me to the Capitol and then to the Inglnook for beef barbecue and coffee and french fries. We saw John Wayne and Ella Reigns in "Tall in the Saddle" and Edie Bracken and Ella Reigns in "Return to the Conquering Hero". Both pretty good. While in the theater, Marge and I weighed ourselves. She weighed 105 in a silk dress and I 104 in a suit and hat. Boy, I’m really slipping. Of course, I’ve had a cold the past week, but feel better now. Ronnie had a cold for a couple days, but is fully recovered now. He just had a runny nose where I had all the trimmings -- sore throat, headaches, and all. How is your cold? Seems you had it for some time as you page two mentioned in your Feb. 22nd letter and again today in today’s V-MAILs dated March 1st. Besides the two March 1st V-MAILs today, Ronnie got his teddy bear. It is just darling, honey, and he hugged it so tight when I told him Daddy sent it. I see you have hidden talents. By the way, who helped you make it? (Must have been feminine.) Where did you get the wool? If I could get the wool, I’d like to make one like it as I think I could copy it. (Maybe.) It certainly is clever and I’ve never seen one like it. I’ve done very little except clean house all day today. I also shopped for groceries and bought myself a steak for my dinner tomorrow. I hope it’s nice and tender as it’s the first one I’ve had for more than a month, except for a little page 3 one I had in the restaurant a couple weeks ago. Meat is certainly scarce now-a-days, even if one had the red points. Just as I wrote this, the newscast reporter just announced the U.S. is faced with the greatest meat shortage in its history and no relief in sight before next Fall and that butchers may go on a 3 or 4 day week as they have no stock for a full week. Isn’t that something? Aren’t you glad you’re in the Army and can have meat? Mrs. Page is having a house full of company tomorrow for her Dad’s birthday and went to three or four markets but finally had to buy four cans of spam to serve for tomorrow’s dinner. Chicken is also impossible to buy. Of course so far I’ve been able to get meat but I just don’t page 4 have enough points. Personally, I’d give up eating meat altogether if I were sure you were getting some. In today’s letter you mentioned that you might get to visit Paris. Did you? I understand a meal there is $12.00. Is this so? Or were you eating while there? Everyone tells me that that would be a waste of time in gay Paree!! You better not fool around with these French gals, or I’ll do a little scouting of my own instead of waiting patiently for your return. Just remember I’m not the gal who forgives and forgets either as some wives might. You see, I figure playing square goes both ways. I’m pretty sure you feel the same way so I’m not very worried on that score in spite of what anyone says to page five the contrary, My main worry is whether you will come back to me safe and sound so we can live the rest of our lives together as we were meant to do when we said our "I do’s". Just think it’s already 8 months since we’ve seen each other. One thing that worries me is that I’ll be so old, wrinkled and ugly when you come back that you won’t love me anymore. Especially after seeing all those glamorous gals overseas. By the way, better stay out of this black market business as hundreds of soldiers, (or should I say thousands), are being court marshals and given life sentences and so on. Any money gained that way isn’t worth it. So take heed and if you run out of money, I’d rather send you some of our page six savings, rather than you should risk your future freedom. I’m talking nonsense as I know you won’t get mixed up in anything like that. Have you heard anything from Eggy lately? or Hitchcocks? They haven’t written to me since they went to Calif. to live. In fact, she didn’t even call me before she left. I got a letter from your Dad and he said to tell you he’d like to hear from you direct. So try to write him oftener, will you, darling? I know he worries about his children more than you realize, perhaps. Well, guess this is all for tonight, and so God bless you and keep you safe from harm so that Mommy and Ronnie can have you with us soon again. Our love always, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. I enjoyed reading The Yank, Stars and Stripes newspaper you sent with Ronnie’s Teddy Bear. ...

11 Mar March 11, 1945

Posted at 23:21h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler March 11th, 1945 Sunday, 10.20 p.m. Dearest Wes, How is army life in France by now? Have you found out as yet what your duties will be? Gee, honey, I wish they’d changed their minds and send all old men like you home to care for your families. That’s where you should be anyway instead of over there. I’m sure you could [do] much more good here. (Or could you?) The Pages have had company all day and had birthday cake for her dad, who is 70 years old. I sat around after breakfast reading the paper. Then we had our dinner broiled T-bone steak, (rather tough one tho), mashed potatoes, gravy, creamed spinach and cheesecake and coffee. While Ronnie had his nap from two o’clock to five o’clock, I sewed ten buttons, page two on one of the wash dresses I’m making. When Ronnie woke up, I dressed him and we went for a ride and to mail your Sat. letter. While riding, I decided to stop in at Elsie’s sister’s as I had left a pin when I visited her last summer and thought I’d pick it up. When I got there, they were papering the kids’ bedroom and they asked us to stay a while. We stayed and they insisted we have a light supper with them consisting of tuna fish salad, bread and butter, ham, and spiced peas. I don’t like fish and spiced peas, so I ate very little. Elsie wasn’t home and her sister said she doesn’t see her from Sat. evening until Monday morning, each weekend. Elsie tells her she stays with a girlfriend, I hope when and if she does marry page three that it’ll be someone who can handle her and someone who will keep her in line. Harvey, (the fellow she’s engaged is not that type at all). She hasn’t seen him for two years now, and guess to her he’s just a memory. Lillian (Elsie’s sister) asked me to come to a surprise party on her husband next Sunday. He’ll be 40 years old then. I think she’s 28 or 29 years old. They have three boys now, five, three, and one years old. I’ve been sitting here thinking perhaps the Pages might come down with a piece of birthday cake, but it’s 11:05 and they haven’t yet. Maybe it’s all gone. Their company left at 10 o’clock, so perhaps they’ve already had their evening snack. Oh well, I can go in my own kitchen and page four have a donut and some coffee. I’m not really that hungry, however. I cut a piece off my little finger on my right hand tonight while doing dishes tonight. The glass coffee maker was broken and I picked it up not knowing and cut myself. It is so sore -- Kiss it Daddy. Did I tell you I now have my new state and city license plates? I don’t have them on the car as yet, however. Did you ever get the second five dollars I sent you? It was addressed to your (Germany) combat address. I believe the one you said you received must be the five dollars I sent on Christmas Day to the hospital. I had sent the other one before that. I wonder if it got lost, or if someone opened the letter and took it. Well, good night, honey. We love you, Mom and Ronnie. ...

11 Mar March 11, 1945

Posted at 12:50h in Letters

V-MAIL from PVT George Shonkwiler to: Master Ronald Shonkwiler Dear RonnieThe time for lights out so will end this <? continued> affair by writing you a little short letter. You know, my dear boy, that your daddy has never really written you a letter, have I? This is so you can put in your pocket and keep all to yourself. How are you and Bobby getting along these days? And are you always a real good boy when you play with him? You tell Bobby that your daddy in France, says hello, and I hope he and his mother and daddy are all well. Now you be a real good boy and run over and give mommy a big hug and kiss for me. And some of these days Daddy will be coming home to play ball with you. Your own Daddy ...

12 Mar March 12, 1945

Posted at 12:58h in Letters

v-MAIL from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwider March 12, 1945, 7.40 PM Noteworthy: Dad dines with a WAC Page 1 Hello Honey, I’ve been ironing all day today and I’m rather tired. Sure feels good to relax in this chair for a change. Of course it would be a lot nicer on the davenport with my head and someone’s lap. Can’t have everything, so the next best is writing to him, I suppose. Although when you say you’re not getting my letters, even that is discouraging. I’m getting the urge to go back to work, so don’t be surprised if you hear I’m working before long. I’m just not satisfied with myself just staying home when I could be doing something toward the war effort. And I need so much done to the house too and that takes more money than I have. I think I’d gain weight if I were working too, as I can’t seem to get an appetite at home. (Can’t afford a big one anyway.) I’m all out of news as I have haven’t seen anyone today outside of the Pages and the insurance man who relieved me of $4.83. Good night sweetheart and all our love always, Mom and Ronnie. Page two Mar. 17, 1945 Mon. 12:45 Hello honey. Oh ’tis St. Patrick’s Day today. Be <? gorra>!. I hope to be wearin’ my shamrock today. We had beautiful weather yesterday 72 degrees and sunshining. I hope that keeps up altho today it’s cooler and terribly windy. Keeps whistling around the corner. But I just wrapped a 5 pound package for you. Hope you stay put long enough to get it. I’m also going to send you an 8 oz. pkg. of tea bags 1st class so you’ll have some in a hurry. Mr.and Mrs. Page took Ronnie and me to the Nantucket for dinner last night. Our favorite waitress said she was glad to see me again. And when I told her you were in the army she said I know it’s a long time since I’ve seen you. She also said to say hello to you and hopes you’ll be back soon etc. We had breaded pork tendeloin, buttered potatoes, fresh peas, cornbread and rolls, shrimp, cocktail, <? consoimne1> and butter scotch sundae. All very good. Mr. Page had your favorite $2.25 steak, and tried to insist on my having it too. But I wasn’t in the mood for steak, I guess. She bill was almost $6.00 anyway, so I think they were pretty nice to us, don’t you? I certainly have nice tenants. They plan to build in a suburb after the war. Will write you more tonight. Love and more love. Did you ever get my <? Kimks> Valentine card. Mom and Ronnie. Page 3 Mar. 26, 1945, Mon. 11:20 P.M. Darling Read two letters today. One and air mail dated. March 16th and one V-MAIL dated Mar. 17th. These were the letters telling me of your receiving <? 62> letters and also of your second trip to Paris. Was just thinking if you must date a WAC to eat it gives me an idea! I’m so low on ration points and money I’ll have to look for an escort to feed me too. In fact I had an offer but as at the time I didn’t think it the right thing. I refused. Imagine refusing a steak dinner these days. Next time I may. <$ rearnsinder> <? formever>. In fact it seems all of a sudden you are terribly broadminded in your views on love etc. Maybe this war is changing you after all altho I had hoped not in that way. You mentioned the G.I.’s view point but stop and think that it would be Just as easy for a wife at home to figure that she could have a good time too as after all her husband may not return and if he does maybe he won’t love her anymore so why waste her time while she’s young. I’m not saying that that’s the way I think, but just to prove that the attitude you speak of could work either way, if a person were weak. See you next page. Love Mom and Ronnie Page 4. Mar. 26, 1945 11:45 P.M. Hello again, honey. I’m wondering about after the meal with the WAC, you couldn’t very well just ditch her. Did she go along to the stage show? What am I becoming, a nagging wife? I hope not. But I’ve heard so much about WACs I don’t trust them with my husband, even if I do trust him. The photo of you in a group beneath the Arc of Triumph was very good. But you seem to squint with one eye. Did your injury have anything to do with it or is just because you’re not wearing glasses? What other ribbons are you wearing besides the <? anerseas>? Do you know who the fellow is who is in dress uniform in the center of the picture standing with his hand on his jacket? It looks like Lief Madsen, a boy from Rockford. I don’t suppose you know all the boys in the photo but just thought I’d ask anyway. I talked to Francis <? Eness> today and although al has been in France since he went overseas, he’s now near Belgium where they are setting up a hospital base. I’ll get the address when I see her. I ironed today, cleaned upstairs storage closet and almost finished sewing a <? pr.>jacket and vest for Ronnie. Well good night darling and please remember Ronnie and me when <? ...

13 Mar March 13, 1945

Posted at 23:17h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 13, 1945 Tuesday, 9:00 P.M. Noteworthy: "unhappy one before" Hello, honey, How’s everything in E.T.O.? That is in your part of it (France)? Did you make your trip to Paris yet? Was it exciting? Or should I say, was she? Why aren’t you allowed to eat while in Paris? Is it because of the shortage of food, or because of the exorbitant prices they charge for it? Do they allow you to drink there? Is it true that when you got to Paris, you forgot all about your wife? At least so they all tell me! (You’d better not!) I received 4 V-mails today, plus an envelope with a Stars and Stripes enclosed. The letters were dated, one on the 3rd, and the other three dated Mar. 4th, No. 1,2,3 of the series 4,5,6,7 I rec’d yesterday. I also had a letter from Betty and page 2 Chuck and one from Forrest, which I am enclosing. Seems Gladys isn’t writing to him, as this is the second time he’s mentioned it. Guess I write him oftener than she, and he’s her brother. I’ve written twice to Joe and Claude, but have had no reply other than the toy dog and pajamas they sent for Ronnie’s birthday. Just keep up the good work of writing, Darling, and you’ll find your devoted wife waiting for you when you get off that boat in New York someday. As I said once before that a lot of wives would be more devoted if their husbands wrote oftener. I know that I seldom miss a day writing you, so if you’re not getting letters it’s not because I haven’t done my part. page 3 Today was a beautiful day, about 56 degrees, and the sun shone all day. Ronnie and I went to the grocery and to the cleaners this morning. (I brought his and my Spring coats down). After that Ronnie, Bobby and Tommy Ivan played together, also a little girl across the Alley. (Johnson, is her name I believe). At 12:30 I called him to come in for dinner, (which he does without crying now-a-days. Guess he found out it didn’t do any good) and later to bed. During the afternoon I started to cut a housecoat, I’m going to sew, but couldn’t decide how to make it, so gave up and baked a cake instead. When Ronnie woke up, he went out to play with Bobby again. At 5:45, I called him for supper. We had beef liver, gravy, mashed potatoes, lettuce and cottage cheese, green peas and cake and ice cream, and milk. page 4 Just before we got to the dessert, Mary came over, so she sat down with us and had some cake, ice-cream and coffee. She presented me with a gift -- Imagine? <? Enuf> handmade lace for two pairs of pillow cases. One length white, with pink edge and one white with lavender edge. I was certainly surprised! She also showed me what she had for Mrs. Hayes. A beautiful handmade linen and lace vanity and chest set of doilies, and an entire lace cloth for her buffet. Of course if I had Edith’s flowery gift of gab, maybe I’d rate higher too. she certainly can "gush" over things. I’m not the type, as I say very little in the way of flattery. page 5 Mary told me Ronnie looks good, so guess he does! She doesn’t give me advice as to his care anymore, so maybe she thinks I’m doing okay. Well, I will say, I try hard enuf if that means anything. Ronnie told me yesterday he wanted to live at Dixon’s, so he could play with Bobby. That’s not saying much for me, is it? Oh, well, I guess it shouldn’t worry me too much, as even you had a hard time getting him to leave Bobby’s when you were home in July. Mary asked me to tell you "hello" and would like to see you come back, as she says[,] it seems so unfair that you should be away now when you could be so happy home with us, me and Ronnie. She page 6 says you deserve to have a happy home now, as you had such an unhappy one before. Guess the old gal must have changed her mind about me lately, as she evidently didn’t think much of me at one time. (Do you s’pose I grow on people?) Seems everyone worries about your future happiness and not a soul worries about mine (Except me, I s’pect) (Or do you, too?) The Pages have company tonight. I can hear them laughing and talking. Sure makes me long for a normal home life! Just think how lucky he was to get out of both wars. He was too young during the last one. Did I tell you Tom Schanstras’ kid brother is home from E.T.A.? A tiny piece of his nose (the end) was shot off. He’s 19, I think. Good night, darling, lots of love and kisses from Mom and Ronnie ...

16 Mar March 16, 1945

Posted at 18:51h in Letters

Card from: Ronald Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 16, 1945 Happy Easter to you, Daddy Love you, Ronnie ...

16 Mar March 16, 1945

Posted at 16:33h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler France March 16, 1945 Fri. 7 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad eats with a WAC. Dad pontificates on the stresses (and gore) of service as relates to life and fidelity and has advice for women at home. Dad expresses the best part of Mom’s letters. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Missed writing you for a couple days for two very good reasons. First: I got another opportunity to go to Paris Wednesday and naturally I jumped at the opportunity. Again I spent a very enjoyable day in the big city. Arrived there about 8 a.m. Took a Red Cross bus tour that we just missed last week at 8.45 a.m. Saw many things didn’t see last week and saw a lot that I did see over again. This time with a man along to explain things. It was a good deal nicer. I am including in another letter photos and pictures of the places we visited. This photo enclosed is one taken of the group standing before the Ark of Triumph where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is from the last war. It’s also a very fine memorial to many other famous French soldiers. We arrived back a little after eleven. Had dough nuts, coffee and the sandwich the army was so generous to give us before leaving that morning. As I told you before we are not supposed to buy anything to eat while on pass unless it is a three day pass[,] then we can eat at the Red Cross. Of course there are always ways and means and we found one and took advantage of it all of which I will tell you of later. After lunch had a very nice hot bath, the first in some time now. Drank a couple real Cokes at the R. Cross and then saw a very interesting French stage show at the Allied Theater. That brought us up to 4.30 p.m. Oh yes I went in with this fellow Jenkins again. We then walked around page 2 window shopping for about an hour before leaving [for] camp. One of the boys who had been in Paris a number of times before tipped us off on how to get something to eat. He said go to the hotel where the WACs stay and sit around in the lobby until one of them asked [askes] you to eat with her. He said we needn’t be afraid they would ask you. So we tried it and it did work. We both got a very delicious meal of roast beef, mashed potatoes and corn, pineapple and cocoa. Now I know that doesn’t sound like much to you, but after the stuff we eat out here it seemed like eating at home almost. We sat at a real table with tablecloth and napkins and real silverware. The WAC I had was a very nice girl about 25, from St. Louis. It seemed very nice talking English to a member of the opposite sex for a change. She was a stenographer for some Major in Ordinance and was a T4 - (Sgt) Went to a technicolor movie starring Basil Rathborn and Joan Fontaine at the N.A.A.F.I. By the time that was over [we] had to rush like hell to make train connections back to camp. The show was just fair and kind of dragged. This ended the day. Not so exciting you might say but it was very nice getting away from this place. Now for my excuse for yesterday. Upon arriving back back in camp Wed. evening I really found something worthwhile waiting for me. Yes you guessed it, sixty two letters. I’ve been reading letters steadily every available minute ever since just finished the last one not over an hour ago. They were dated all the way page 3 from Sept. 11th to Feb. 12th. Fourty two of them were yours the rest were from just about everyone and many of them according to my many addresses on them have certainly been around just about every place I’ve been since coming over here. I received such things as another picture of you. The one in <? Delcohani> card for whatever it is (the tinted picture) a bit overexposed I though [thought] but otherwise very good and I was very glad to receive it; some more pictures Of Ronnie, you and Gladys and Joyce. Another $5 bill which from now on you keep as I am doing very nicely on what I am able to gather up here and there. In fact am considering seriously of helping out our money problems with another small contribution. Then there were many news items all very interesting. A lot of gaps filled in and all the latest dope on the <? pups>, your money troubles and house utility troubles. That is all the latest up to Feb. 12th. Really I’ve read letters until my eyes have practically given out. Oh yes even the letter telling about your little news item from <? WPS> [news paper telling about Dad’s commendation activity]. Naturally that was played up a little, but essentially the facts were there. I guess of course if you have received the long letter I wrote you about a week ago, you will know a little more of actually what happened. It was very nice of them to write you any way. What puzzles me is where they got all their information. When I was in the hospital, there was a GI reporter come thru and asked a few questions of some of the injured men. But he certainly didn’t ask that many questions. page 4 I received letters from Holmes, Dad, Norma, Claude, Forrest, Hayes, Joan, Scholes, Betty Morrow, Martinsons, Gallicini, Evers, and many others all very welcome, and someday hope I can get around to answering them all. But at the present time with my present job don’t have any too much time. I am kept pretty busy most of the day and at night by the time I clean up, write you and maybe go for a little walk or something the day is over. [I] Am pretty well fed up with the place and now that I have received some mail am very very anxious to get on to wherever I’m going. Of course this work I’m doing here is a voluntary job and I could get off it whenever I choose, but figure Sweeney, my boss, needs someone so bad <? and> he’s gotten so he can depend on me now. I’ll just stick it out until I’m given my regular job. Besides it does have it’s compensations as you might guess or I wouldn’t be here. My friend Jenkins left today. He also was in this Special Service Platoon that I came over in. So imagine I’ll not be here much longer now. In a number of you [your] letters you mentioned something about going to Calif. for a while. Naturally I know it’s a litte rough there and a vacation would be a great help to you[,] but under the circumstances it seems to me the trip would hardly be worth it at this time. Perhaps when I return we can all go page 5 out there for a nice vacation and visit all the people both in Oregon and Calif. who want us to visit them. You also mentioned going out to see Chamberlin. What happened there? I believe that was one the last letter you wrote that I received. About Dick and Gladys. I’m very sorry to hear about that. Especially since Dick is over here <? from> platoons are strong enough as it is with out any discussion from back home lowering one’s resisting power and morale. I believe your advice was good under the circumstances. I know that there are going to have to be many readjustments when many of the boys over here go home and their wives find out what has been happening while their husbands were over seas -- and vice versa too. However, I sincerely hope in both our cases that we will have no such excesses to have trouble over. I know there will be no reason to do so for anything I have done or will do and I have full confidence in you my dear. I figure we both have entirely too much at stake and so little time left to enjoy what we do here to take any unnecessary chances of ruining it. I for one expect to return home as I left. As for Dick, if he isn’t farsighted enough to see it that way, then there isn’t much I or Gladys or anyone can do about it. A little cognac and wine quickly pulls down the weak <? loall> many but up between them and the women that can be had for the mere asking in this and every other country I have so far been in the E.T.O. [European Theater of Operations]. page 6 For Gladys it’s tough but now is certainly no time for her to weaken . You know, any man that spends any time in this godforsaken place especially if he is up or near the front or has a type of job that the cadre have in this camp, it’s enough to drive some of the best nutty. Even should Dick do some of the things that she is afraid he is doing, she might still find that he is far better than any else she would ever find besides always taking the a chance that any such other fellow probably will have done the same things himself. Naturally, I know that’s no excuse for Dick or anyone else but some don’t look at such thing as I do and it’s possible that Dick may be one of those men. Under no circumstances should she make things worse now by trying to do something about it where she is 4,000 miles away from him. A man’s life in the army has very little value now days. We all know it very well over here and to many that means live today and let tomorrow take care of itself. To many of you people back home that may seem a bit crude but then you have never seen men you were talking to seconds before killed or have an arm or leg blown off and beg to be killed because they didn’t want to return home that way or felt they couldn’t stand the pain. Such things happen here every minute of the day and for that reason I can understand why many men do things they would never otherwise dream of doing. Enough of all that. I don’t have to tell you all these things because you already must appreciate what it means. It’s the ones who don’t that burn us up over here. As you have seen, the Stars and Stripes keep us pretty much up to date with local affairs back in the States. There are a very large number of men in this army page 7 who have lost a lot of faith in the States, the people in it, and the world as a whole. We wonder what it’s all about sometimes. I believe the best part of all your letters were those about our little Ronnie. His bright sayings, what he does, how he acts and especially about his yearn for trains. All I can say is that his mother must be all that I ever hoped for and is doing one bang up job of caring for Ronnie and things back home. You know my dear that’s been more consolation to me than any thing else I have ever had. Just keep things going a little longer, the end is definitely in sight. Now soon we will all be together once again to take up where we left off. page 8 Oh Ronnie my little big boy, I have certainly been getting some very good news about you also about Mommie. You must really be a very good little man. And Daddy is very proud of both of you. You keep on being a good boy and someday I will be home to play with your trains and marbles with you. And you tell Mommie we will go out to shows and dinners and do lots of nice things. So now you both be good and I do miss you very very much and hope that I will be home someday soon now. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

17 Mar March 17, 1945

Posted at 16:20h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler Mar. 17, 1945, 10:30 P.M. Saturday page 2 Darling, I wrote one V-mail this afternoon and mailed it with a 5 lb box, and also an 8-oz. 1st class mail pkg. containing 48 teabags. Now keep your fingers crossed and perhaps you’ll get it soon. The clerk at the P.O. told me that X-mas pkg.s mailed last Sept.-Oct. are just now being delivered. So maybe you’ll get them yet. I’d sure hate to see or smell the contents when you do however. I spent today like every Sat. cleaning house, shopping for groceries, etc. I could have "stepped out" tonight as Mrs. Page offered to care for Ronnie, but after counting my money, (I had $3.50 to last until next Sat.) I decided I couldn’t afford even a show. Guess I’ll just go to bed after writing you and try to "dream up" a good time. I talked to Muriel on the phone today and she had a date tonight for the show, dinner, and dancing. That certainly sounds "heavenly and out of this world" to me. Do people still do those things? I’d forgotten it was done. And here I am just wasting my youth (or is it middle-age)? Don’t mind me, honey, I got those blues again. You know how it is. Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

18 Mar March 18, 1945

Posted at 14:24h in Letters

V-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. George Shonkwiler March 18, 1945, France page 2, Sunday, 9:30 p.m. Hello again, Still trying to write under very trying circumstances. And at this late hour this tent is a regular traffic stop. I’ve been interrupted more times since trying to write this letter than there is [are] words in the letter. There is no wonder I’m having such a hard time concentrating on something to write about. Guess as long as you learn that I am still kicking that I’m not too bad off - which is true. I know things have been much worse. I hope that someday, soon now, I will find the time to go over all your letters leisurely and be able to answer them in more detail. Right now I’m thinking I am lucky getting off a V-mail to you almost every day. I certainly hope you receive them regularly in <? tiroals> and you are keeping up the good work of writing me even though I do get <? Aew> in doses of fifty at a time. How’s my little Ronnie tonight and all his trains? Don’t break them all up <? Ron> because Daddy wants to come home and play with them with you. Love Daddy ...

19 Mar March 19, 1945

Posted at 20:42h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler March 19, 1945 France Mrs. My Darling, How’s that for a change. A change is all it is because I don’t feel any better or any worse. A little tired perhaps but otherwise all right. Went on to a town about 15 miles away today to Co. Hq’s to see something about my status here. Learned a few things but nothing new yet although may find out something in the next few days. Had a little trouble getting transportation back and had to walk part of the way. Well I’m seeing France in many different ways. Sgt. Sweeney, my boss, says to tell you hello. He is quite a boy. More about him later someday. You might send me some Vicks salve, my powders and something else but can’t think of it now. It seems the powers you sent first class mail reaches me pretty well. Other packages don’t get here at all hardly. It’s like summer here now. Every thing getting green. All the farmers working their fields and it was pretty nice being out in the air for a change as I didn’t mind the walk. Well my dears will see you tomorrow. All my love, Daddy ...

19 Mar March 19, 1945

Posted at 16:29h in Letters

Card from: Mrs. A. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 19, 1945 Noteworthy: Mom signs her name with a "y". (Top page. Picture of a bouquet of flowers.) A Happy Easter to my Sweetheart (Center page) A thousand words could never tell The love that’s in my heart, My joy when we’re together, dear, My thoughts when we’re apart; No words of mine could mean so much When Eastertime is here, Or any other time, Sweetheart, as these -- "I love you, dear!" Alyce (over) (Back page) Darling, What I wouldn’t give to have you with us this Easter. Boy, would Ronnie and I be proud in that Easter parade. We rec’d those darling hankies you sent us from Paris. You shouldn’t be spending your hard earned money on us, however. I wanted at least to have an Easter bonnet for Easter, but can’t pay the price ($10.00 to $20.00) so I’m making over an old one, instead. I may get new shoes, but I doubt it. Guess you’re wearing your old ones, so guess I can too. I stopped in to see Vida today and she had a sinus headache and was headed for the Dr’s office. It’s Bobby’s birthday today and I’m invited for cake and ice cream. Love always, Mom and Ronnie ...

21 Mar March 21, 1945

Posted at 17:00h in Letters

March 21, 1945, Wednesday, 10.30 p.m. Alice to G. Wesley Shonkwiler Hello darling, Guess I’ll break down and write a real letter instead of V-mail tonight. I’ve been sending V-mails since you told me to because you might be shipped soon, but from your letter you evidently aren’t getting any mail at all since your arrival in France. I also sent an eight-ounce and five-pound package last week. Hope you get them before you move again. I was in the midst of washing clothes in the basement today when Judy started to bark furiously. Sure enough it was the mailman. Ronnie came downstairs carrying two letters from daddy. He gets just as excited as I do. When we get mail, "Mommy here’s two letters from Daddy", were his exact words. Of course, all letters are from Daddy as far as he’s concerned, but this time he happened to ring true. One was a 10-page letter written March 10th and the other a V-mail written March 12th. That’s only 11 days for regular airmail and that’s good service. The letter I read last week with the Paris <? hankies> took only eight days and that was super service. So you see they evidently are still sending some letters by airmail as yet altho probably very few from the US go airmail now. I enjoyed reading your letter so much altho it gave me chills up and down my spine and my heart was in my throat all the time I was reading it. It was very interesting and almost too vivid and real to suit me. (Who said it wasn’t real?) You mentioned sending this letter on to Norma and your dad and the rest of your family etc. This I intend to do but hope that they will guard it with their life as I want it back in good shape. I wouldn’t want to lose it for anything as I’m saving all your letters for Ronnie to read someday and maybe his "sis" (who knows). That is if they let you come home while we’re still young. Ronnie and I had dinner at the Hayes’ tonight. I haven’t seen them for two weeks. They were over last Sunday and I wasn’t home of course as I was with Pages in Highland Park. We had a very good dinner for a change. Round steak, gravy, carrots, green beans, boiled potatoes, peach and lettuce salad and apple pie and coffee. The reason for the steak was that the butcher was out of everything else. She paid a $1.02 for steak for five people and thought it a terrific price. (I can remember paying more than that for just you and me.) Sometimes I believe you when you say she is on the miserly side. I had baked cake this afternoon so I brought them some so I wouldn’t feel so obligated for our dinner. I shouldn’t talk like that as it was very nice of her to have us over for dinner. I’m learning to be pretty "miserly" myself these days but not because I like it. But guess it good practice in "managing" at that. We may have tough times after the war too and that’s why I don’t want to dig into savings if I can help it. I called Mr. De Mink the other day and he asked me to come in to see him at 6.30 Tuesday morning about going back to work. I rushed around all over and finally found a nursery that would keep Ronnie all day for $10.00 a week. When I got home that night I thought and thought and thought wondering if I was doing the wise thing. I would have to get up at 5:00 a.m. and dress Ronnie, feed him and myself and bring him to the nursery every day. As he doesn’t get up until 8:00 or 8:30 usually, I’d be cheating him 3 hours sleep a day and then I’d worry all day at work for fear he wasn’t getting enough to eat for lunch and whether he’d take his nap etc. Well all in all I decided not to see De Mink Tues. morning after all so guess my hopes for a job anymore at Pullman are over as he’s probably plenty mad as he was coming in early to talk to me. Maybe I’m a fool to stay home when I could be getting good money, but here I am again. acquiescing to my husband’s wishes as a good wife should. (oh yeah?) or should she? Come to think of it I didn’t promise to "love, honor, and obey", just to "love, honor, and cherish". I guess the "love" is what changed my mind as I guess I don’t really want to do something that you don’t sanction. Of course if you change your mind let me know I do think our fortune could stand replenishing. It was cold and windy today brrr. We’re s’posed to have 70 degrees temperature tomorrow according to the paper. I hope so! I went over to Brandt’s today and bought three quarts of milk, eggs etc. When I got home I found all three quarts of milk sour. I called and Brandt answered the phone and said he’d bring me three more quarts right away. While here he told me that two juniper trees at the outer corners of our house were dead and asked if I wanted him to pull the tree out, so he did. He said the dirty Chicago air kills that type of tree as it is native of Tennessee. He also said the trees on either side of the front door are about to die but will revive if a bushel of manure is spaded in around the roots. He said he’d send a kid over with the manure some day soon. He also said the bush evergreens under the front windows have "red spider" and I may be able to save ’em if I play the hose on ’em thoroughly. All I need is a gardener to take care of our landscaping. (12:00 midnite) I baked a devil’s food cake this afternoon, so the Pages just had some cake and coffee with me. You’ll just have to develop a taste for chocolate cake as it is my specialty. Just turns out luscious every time. Edith told me tonight that the Greek priest Mary was working for us is getting married. So she quit and she will not work for a woman. Seems all the men get married after she is around for a while. Is that what made your mind up? Anyway Edith knew of a woman who is a housekeeper for a wealthy family and this family has a city home and a home at Lake Geneva in the summer and had told Edith that the assistant housekeeper was quitting because of ill health. Mary applied for the job and got it tonight and she’ll last long though. Doubt she’ll last long tho as she is to work with this housekeeper in the city 6 months of the year and work alone at the Lake Residence. I’m sure she can’t get along with a woman as her boss even part of the year but that’s her problem. Edith sure is thick with Mary. I can’t quite dope their friendship out except that Mary always gives her and Joan expensive gifts. Boy am I catty. Well honey thanks again for the nice long letter and I hope I’ll have many more long ones. When I get a letter it’s like the sun breaking through a cloud. I hope you get lots of mail very soon honey as it must be awful not to get any. All my love always and here’s to an early return of my honey. Bye Mom and Ronnie. P.S. I disagree with Norma as to your breaks in this war as you so you’re so lucky to be alive and all in one piece. ...

22 Mar March 22, 1945

Posted at 13:38h in Letters

from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler. March 22, 1945, Thursday night Noteworthy: (1) Dad and Mom were married 6 months before he went in to the Army. (2) Mom would not mind having a 1/2 dozen boys. Hello, honey, Something exciting happens every minute around here, it seems. Mr. Page just told me thieves broke into his car and (in front of our house) during the night and had scattered the contents of his briefcase all over the car, taken a flashlight and siphoned about eight gallons of gas out of his car.Time out --- I called the police a while ago and they just rang the bell, so I told them about it. They said they’d keep a look out and not to worry etc. My car is in the garage but there have been a series of robberies around Union and Low so I thought it best to report it so the squad cars would patrol this area Page two.more often. This being in the last house on the block isn’t the best thing in the world for a lonely girl. This sounds funny coming from me as I’m not very easily frightened. But then I’ve never lived alone before either. Just doesn’t seem right that you should be sitting thousands of miles away doing a routine job like issuing passes and details when Ronnie and I need you so much more at home. Who am I to judge? I’ve been ironing all afternoon and I just made a small dent in the stack so will continue tomorrow. I ironed at least ten sets of overalls and shirts for Ronnie alone plus several blouses of my own and a couple Page threedozen sheets and cases and towels. Don’t know who uses all these things to get them dirty. I was pretty tired by the time Ronnie woke up after his nap so after a little grocery shopping he and I went out to eat and had a lousy meal then went to the State Theater. We saw "Frenchman’s Creek" with Joan Fontaine and Arturo Cordova and "Army Wives" with Elyse Knox plus Popeye cartoon. Both pictures were good and of course I cried during "Army Wives". During the cartoon I just sit and watched Ronnie’s face as he just sits and laughs and laughs and it’s too cute for words. I only wish you could see him too. He was very good except that he had "to go" in the middle of the show. Page four We went to the restroom hurried back so we didn’t miss much of the picture. I just had coffee and apple pie upstairs a while ago. Seems I have a bedtime snack almost every night. I often wonder if you ever get to eat before bedtime and I remember how you and I used to sit and eat cake and milk or cake and cookies at night. Sure seems like a long time ago doesn’t it? Strange isn’t it to think the Army has had you for 13 months while I’ve only had you for 6 months. What does the Army have that I haven’t?(Don’t answer that please!) Last Sunday afternoon while we were eating Mr. Page told Ronnie to "keep his mind on his food" Page fiveinstead of gazing around". Ronnie looked at him with that look in his eyes and said, "I can’t eat with my mind"! Isn’t our son clever? (Oh definitely. Look who’s raising him.) I got a letter from Eleanor Johnson today which I’m enclosing. She had a boy when she had wanted a girl so badly. That’s one thing that can’t be predetermined I guess. Oh well, I would not mind a half dozen boys. I guess if I could have my husband with me to help me bring them up. Although it would be nice to have a little girl too. I’d love to make cute clothes for her. Boys clothes aren’t as much fun to sew for some reason. Page six. Guess there’s no chance for original design which makes it uninteresting. Am I getting good to my husband! A ten page letter last night and six pages tonight. You tell that Sergeant of yours he better write longer letters to his wife or he may lose her before he gets home. I know those letters of yours certainly give my spirits a lift when they arrive so keep them coming this way. I didn’t get a letter today but I did get a "Stars and Stripes" from you and they are very interesting reading also. (That is outside of a letter which rates much higher.) Well good night, Darling. Just hang onto that. Love until I see you again. Always yours, Mom and Ronnie. ...

24 Mar March 24, 1945

Posted at 19:02h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Mar. 24, 1945 Item: Stars and Stripes newspaper of May 4, 1945 (8 pages) Headlines: Third Crosses Rhine Allies Maintain Air Assault Point Plan Ready, But Top Secret We Can Cross the Rhine At Will Almost Anywhere - Bradley Red Smash on Oder Reported; Russians Chase Foe in Silesia. ...

24 Mar March 24, 1945

Posted at 19:22h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler March 24th, 1945 France Saturday at 6 P.M. page 1. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Aanother very beautiful day and another week spent in this camp. But I am getting kind of used to it here now, gotten to know some of the fellows and it really could be a fairly nice place. Suppose that means it’s about time for me to be moved on. Sometimes I wonder if I will ever stay in one place in this army long enough to really get acquainted. It would <? nat> me if <? I> didn’t if they would just send me home. It’s really summer here now. We wear no coat or jacket and no hat when we think we can get away with it. Have another chance to go to Paris tomorrow. Since I now have a little money on hand plan to buy you both something for Easter. However since tomorrow is Sunday [I] suppose everything will be closed tight. But maybe you would prefer that I send you the money instead - or both. <? For> that may be possible. Our barracks here is cleaned out again tonite is so Sweeney and I have the place to ourselves. Some relief. Last nite we had over two hundred men see <? ...

26 Mar March 26, 1945

Posted at 17:00h in Letters

March 26, 1945, Sunday 8 p.m. Dearest Wes, It seems ages since I’ve written my honey. I missed writing last night because I didn’t get home from Holmes’ until 1 a.m. and as I planned on getting up at 7.30 this morning, I went right to bed. Will you forgive me? I knew you would! I cleaned house practically all day yesterday and when I was through, Ronnie and I went up on the avenue to buy some groceries. And I also bought a slip for myself. Imagine, I spent $2.50 for it and I really couldn’t afford it, but can’t go without "undies" either. Seems my pre-marriage things are all wearing out at once. I’ll be glad when summer comes so my stocking worries will be over and I can get a suntan and go bare-legged again. Marge asked me to come over last night, so Ronnie and I went over about 7.30. She asked me to stop for a quart of ice cream as she had some strawberries. When I got there, she asked Murray to pay me for it, but he said no and said he figured I owed them some ice cream anyway. I realized that he’s brought ice cream over a couple of times in the past and that he’s taken me to shows a couple of times, but still thought it rather cheap of him to say so. Besides, they’ve had lots of evening snacks here too. Ah, well, guess a poor illiterate Swede like me shouldn’t question a "scholar" like Murray even if his actions seem impolite to me. Maybe we just rub one another the wrong way. Could be! I still think Marge is tops, however, so guess, so guess I’ll just have to grin and bear him. His constant nagging of any and all her efforts is what really gets me down, but then if she can take it, I guess it’s her problem. If and when I’m ever criticized in front of other people like she is by my husband, I will just politely give up and leave, and that’s for sure. (8:45) Marge just stopped in for a minute. Murray wouldn’t come in as he wants to get home and "to bed". She stopped for some thread that I had forgotten to give her last night. Know what I did this A.M.? I got up at 7.30 and by 9:00, Ronnie and I were dressed and had our breakfast. At 9.15, I brought him down to 113th and Union to the Luther Church there and he had his first day of Sunday school. He was up and down like a jack-in-the-box all the time, but seemed to enjoy himself. After the Sunday school teacher persuaded him to drop his money in the collection plate, he kept watch until they were through passing it and had set the collection on a table up near the front, then he rushed up and took a nickel out. Was I embarrassed. Imagine our son robbing the collection plate his first day in Sunday school. He’s became accustomed to getting pennies and nickels from me for his "piggy bank" and I suppose he decided he needed to get more money "outside". I stayed with him through Sunday school today, but hereafter I will take him down and pick him up. I do hope he’ll behave himself when I’m not around. Several children on Lowe Avenue go there too, Jennifer Nirke and Anna Marie Montine and I think Bobby may start too altho when I talked to Mrs. Dixon today, she said she thought Bobby too young (he’s four). The trouble is she doesn’t want to get up to dress him every Sunday that early, as she sleeps till close to noon every day. It’s no wonder she weighs 180 pounds and I 104. I wonder if I’ll gain 76 pounds in the next eight years. Do you think so? The Hayes stopped in this afternoon and they had asked me again last Thursday to go to Sunday school and church with them this Sunday. I didn’t know how to tell them about starting Ronnie over here at the Lutheran Church. But I finally did and I guess they were pretty surprised. They didn’t say much, however, except that Tom Cauble and family are Lutherans etc. At least I got out of going to church with them from now on, and that’s something as I’d rather be on my own. I’d like to have Ronnie baptized too, or would you rather I should wait until you get home, anything you say, or should we wait until we christened Jr? Ronnie’s been sitting here this evening playing with a miniature bowling set he got at Christmas time. It consists of eight clowns, and when you roll the ball and hit them, they turn somersaults and their hats fall off. He’s had a lot of fun with it. Today at Sunday school, when the class teacher said the Lord’s Prayer, Ronnie folded his hands too and recited all of his, "Now I lay me down to sleep", from beginning to end. It was so funny! He sure is some guy, and the teacher is going to have her hands full every Sunday. There are three boys and about ten girls in his class. Not bad, huh? I had a letter from Eleanor, which I’m enclosing. Good night, honey, and may you be kept safe from all harm. Love Mom and Ronnie. P.S. We had broiled porterhuse steak today, and creamed asparagus, buttered green beans, mashed potatoes, gravy cake and banana pineapple jello, and coffee. Not bad. And I wish you could have been with us. Meat is scarce these days. ...

27 Mar March 27, 1945

Posted at 14:12h in Letters

Letter from: PVT George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler France, March 27, 1945, 9 p.m. Tuesday Dearest Alice and Ronnie, A little late in starting this but have just come from seeing E.G. Robinson in Tampico. I had seen it once before but then entertainment around here is very scarce so I usually take in everything that comes along. As you might know already, I am still in this camp. Today makes four full weeks. I think I told you it is located about 30 miles south of Paris and is a replacement depot for limited assignment men. Guess just about all LA men from the States and all wounded LA men come through this place. There are some pretty sad cases. I am one of them but there are many so much worse than I am that it isn’t even funny. However, that is only one of many things I’ve seen and learned about this army since coming here that it all makes my head swim. I wish I could dare tell you. But I am even afraid to take the chance in this letter. It looks like I’ll have to wait until I get home and then of course the war will be all over and too late, or will it be? And speaking of the war, it does look good, doesn’t it? I’m still betting on April but some say it will take until the summer. That brings me to something that you might be able to do to facilitate me getting home, if not now, as soon as the war is over in Europe. I for one am very anxious to get home. If you are just as anxious to have me home, there may be a couple things you can do to help. This is it. Regardless of what everyone says, there is going to be one hell of a lot of politics in who goes home first. Many strings will be pulled, and a lot of men will get home before their turn. Now you page 2 can act accordingly. I’ll tell you what I think will help. First, see Edith and Emil Kuenstr - I think they may help - especially Edith can. Second. As soon as the war ends here, go to the Red Cross, or better yet, have one of their representatives come to see you and tell them the story. Include the fact that I have stomach and skin trouble for years, has been wounded, one of my wounds being in the side of my head damaging my cheek bone and sinus. I was discharged from the hospital after two months of treatment for my wounds, stomach and skin condition, put in limited service due to an ulcerated condition in my stomach, which the doctor admitted to me in person, that there was nothing further he could do at the time. I was to try to diet the best I could do -- in the Army chow line, imagine -- also the same for my sinus trouble. The only cure he said would be nature. My skin condition improved immensely under medical supervision. I took sulfa <? familihide> but since stopping the medical treatment, it has begun to come back to me again. In order to eat Army chow, I am forced to take the powders you send me all the time. When I left the hospital, they would not give me any medicine for it saying I could report for sick call and get treated. I have learned from past sad experience that going on sick call, unless you are practically dead, is useless. That, in brief, is the story. I am perfectly willing to stick it out <? right> here, as long as the war lasts, and there is a job to do. But I will be damned if I can see getting stuck here months afterwards and seeing many other men go home ahead of me who will no doubt have done much less than I and have far less reason for being discharged. Plus all this, I have you and Ronnie. Of course there are millions of us in that boat too, but it’s still important. Probably very important to you and Ronnie I hope. Perhaps you know or have heard by this time of other methods that might help. If so get them to working. It can’t do any harm and who knows we might be lucky. page 3 Had planned on sending you a $60 money order in this letter but was unable to get it in time so will try to send it in the next day or so. The money isn’t doing me much good over here and it’s just possible that you might be able to use it. If not you can always save it for that rainy day. I sent you a couple newspaper clippings the other day from the Stars and Stripes about Ernie Pyle’s articles. One mentioned one of the boys in the South Pacific he had met a boy whose wife or girlfriend or someone had sent him some good old home fried chicken. Now I hate like the dickens asking you to send me anything because so far I have received so few of your packages, none since the two I received while in the hospital, but a couple pieces of chicken would certainly be very nice. Even a steak would help. However I hear that you people are limited in your meat these days so maybe you had better forget the meat. We do get plenty of that here even if it is spam and heated C-rations usually. Suppose from all this you are beginning to think things are pretty tough around here. Well compared to home they are. But compared to what I have had and what those poor boys up at the front still have, it is a bit of heaven and I’m not kicking. At least I don’t have to dodge bullets shrapnel and mines and booby traps back here. page 4 Did I tell you that I received a letter dated February 12th from Rogers. He was still alright at that time although having it pretty rough. You know he was in the same regiment, 379th. I’ve heard from Rosen once -- written Christmas. He was in 378th regiment 95th division. We all stay together all the way, all the time. Got to be pretty good friends. Certainly hope they both are still alright. Still have never heard from Dick although have written him a number of times. Now that I have been here a month, I should start to receive mail regularly although I’ve had none since last week. Would certainly be nice to get some up to date letters from everyone, especially a couple from 110th and Union Ave. Ronnie my little boy how are you today and do you miss your daddy once in a while. I surely miss you and Mommy. Wouldn’t it be nice if I could get home this summer as we could play and do lots of things while it is still warm. If you keep your fingers crossed my dears and it could be. Now this is about all for tonight. It’s after 10 and that’s after bedtime. 5:45 a.m. is still pretty early for me and about the only thing I get any enjoyment out of doing over here is sleeping. So don’t usually miss out on any more of it than necessary. It has been a little chilly today and tonight quite cool. Guess you probably could help that situation were you here. Oh well I’ll throw on an extra blanket and dream. All my love to you both always, Daddy. ...

27 Mar March 27, 1945

Posted at 12:54h in Letters

from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler. March 27th, 1945, Tuesday, 8.45 p.m. Noteworthy: Trouble getting meat. Hello, honey. I’ll try to make up tonight for the sort of nasty V-MAILs I wrote last night. I guess I just was in a pretty bad mood. I suppose being in the midst of spring house cleaning, washing walls, woodwork, cleaning closets, etc, it just got me down, thinking of you out with a Wac.. I’m sorry, as far be it from me to begrudge you of a good meal no matter how you get it. It’s just about as bad here in the meal line anyway as I have to wait in line in three or four meat stores and still don’t always get a decent piece of meat. Today I was lucky in getting a few slices baked ham. The butcher (at Johns Market on 111th and Wentworth) said he was giving me a pound of the piece of ham he was saving for his own Easter dinner. (Come to think of it, I should have married a butcher.) I had intended on going to Rockford for Easter, but just had a letter from Betty telling me not to come in as they’re invited out. She also said the whole family had page two. new Easter outfits and therefore didn’t want to change her plans. Oh well, as far as I’m concerned, it can rain all day on Easter as I don’t have a thing now to wear. As long as you’re not here to see how I look, I care very little. So new clothes are my smallest worries these days. Marge was showing me her new outfit last Saturday, but then Murray probably won’t take her out anyway. At least I have the consolation of knowing that if my husband were here and I had a new outfit, he would take me out somewhere. Guess if he were here, I wouldn’t even mind staying at home when I came to think of it. I got the real estate tax statement today, $161.40 total, or $80.70 for each installment. Have you any idea as to where I can get that much money? You don’t want it left until after the war, do you? Should I withdraw from Smith or do we have any money there? You never did reply to my previous queries about our accounts and whether or not they’re all joint accounts Page three. or not. Also whether or which I should draw on, if necessary. We also have some at Chesterfield, don’t we? Straighten me ou. on all this, will you, honey? Do we have any bonds in the deposit box? Also, where is the key? Or is it on my key ring? Boy, am I a question box tonight. I washed all of the kitchen walls and cabinets today, but don’t know what to do about the ceilings as my back gets too sore stretching to wash them. I did last year, but decided the suffering I had as the aftermath isn’t worth it. You know how sick I was when you had your ten day leave in July. I can’t get anyone to do just the ceiling, either. And besides, they want a fortune for it. The whole place needs painting as it’s worn off, getting washed all the time. Whoever said gas heat is clean is crazy, because to me it seems dirtier than coal heat. Our next home will be heated by electricity, or is there such a thing? For our new home, we’ll have electric stove and refrigerator, too. In fact, right now I’d like very much to, Page four. live in an apartment building with maid service. For instance, all Marge and Murray have to do this year is relax as their apartment is being cleaned and painted by the owner. Pretty soft. I’ll bet the Pages wish they lived in an apartment building, too, as I can’t do a thing for them. Ben Campbell had a tree in his backyard cut down a couple of weeks ago. The stump (about five feet) is still there, and they also took all the wood along with them. Guess what he had to pay? $42.00. Isn’t that something? So you see, all we people at home do is pay and pay and pay. I’ve noticed ads in the paper where colored gals want $1.00 per hour and carfare to do cleaning work. In days gone by, they were lucky to get $2.00 per week and pay their own carfair. I often wonder how much the Dixon’s pay their colored gal to clean every week. Mr. Dixon is taking his tests at DePaul for his Master’s degree now. A couple have been returned with grades of A and B, so he’s not Page five. Doing so badly. Ronnie and I were up on the avenue this morning and as you see, I bought some stationary plus groceries. They had some baby chicks 4 for 45 cents, and as these were the first chicks Ronnie has seen, (or did he see some in Florida?) he went wild and insisted I should buy some. I almost considered it, as since all chickens were sent out for the Army and Navy one can’t buy them here anymore. I haven’t been able to get any chicken since November. They’re frozen in most states, which caused Ray Mufries to close their store a week after New Year’s. Brandts haven’t had any chickens either. Anyway, I decided I had enough troubles without raising chickens too, so Ronnie has to come home without his chickens, much against his wishes. The temperature today was 75 degrees or more, but pretty windy. Tonight it is very windy, so perhaps we’ll have snow in the Page six. morning could be. Everyone was going around in shirt sleeves and dresses today. By the way, did you get your Christmas Valentine and Easter cards? I think you mentioned getting a Christmas card from Ronnie, but that’s all. I got a March 12th Stars and Stripes today, but no letters. Oh, well, maybe tomorrow. Looks like I’ll spend a lonely Easter this year, as I can’t have guests without meat, and besides, I have told everyone I’d be going to Rockford. I’ll take Ronnie to Sunday School, and after that, guess I’ll just stay home and rest. Probably do me good. Maybe I can take Ronnie to a show to celebrate. I wonder what you’ll be doing? Going to church, I hope. I saw "Frenchman’s Creek". Is that the one you saw? I saw it last week at the State. I always miss holding your hand in a show, so that I get more lonely than ever. Ah, well, someday! You be a good boy, and I’ll be a good girl and maybe we will be rewarded by an early reunion. Always thinking of you and loving you, Mom and Ronnie. ...

28 Mar March 28, 1945

Posted at 14:14h in Letters

V-MAIL from: PVT George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 28th of March 1945, France. Wednesday 9 PM Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Haven’t much to write about tonight, but guess I’d better let you know I’m still alive and kicking. I wrote you another one of those special letters last night, and by the way, use a little discretion when you get those letters, there has been three of them to date. Probably won’t be any more at least not for a while, especially not if I am transferred from here. Still here and still no idea of what is going to happen to me, I’m getting so I don’t care. I could easily go to a worse place than this, and I’ve learned that when conditions are not too bad you had better let well enough alone. Who knows, maybe the war will soon end, and then all I’ll have to worry about is getting home. I’m doing that already, Still no mail since last week. Thought surely by this time I would be receiving mail regularly. Please send me a box of powders, first class mail. I’m running low again, and I am afraid I would have a difficult time without them now. I’m sending you $50 postal money order tomorrow, maybe it will help the financial situation a little. All my love to you both, Daddy. ...

28 Mar March 28, 1945

Posted at 13:33h in Letters

Enscript Output V-MAIL From Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to Private First Class George Wesley Shonkwiler. March 28th, 1945, Wednesday, 11.15 p.m. Hello, honey. I read three V-mails today. Two dated March 18th and one March 19th. Gosh, what’s happened? I noticed the heading was "Darling". Does that mean absence makes the heart grow fonder or what have you? It was a thrill anyway. You see, it doesn’t take a lot to make my heart skip a beat these days, especially with a gorgeous full moon the last couple of nights. I went out to mail some Easter cards after supper tonight. I was alone as Ronnie was out for a ride with Bobby and Daddy and his daddy. Anyway, on my way up to Halsted and 111th Street to the mailbox I looked up and there was this gorgeous full moon and I never felt so lonesome in all my life. The temperature was 80 degrees today and a perfectly beautiful summer’s day. Right now, there is thunder and lightening. So, suppose we’re in for some rain again. 12.05 a.m.Just had some hot cross buns, coffee, cake and cookies with the Pages. Just hit the spot. It is pouring down now. Hope it stops before morning as Lillian (Elaine’s sister) is coming over for lunch and we had planned on having her three children and Ronnie play in the backyard. It was cancelled last week because of rain.See you next page. Love, always. Mom and Ronnie. Page 2. Wednesday, 12.15 a.m (or is it Thursday?) Hello again, Honey Don’t know what I can say to fill up the rest of this page, but I’ll try. I went up the avenue this morning and bought shelf edging. I found shelf lining paper is just is not to be had, but I do have some left from last year, so I’ll use it. I washed inside all the cupboards and washed all the glassware, etc. Also cleaned out the linen closet and medicine chest. That plus three meals and dishes and giving Judy, Ronnie and myself baths and shampoo just about took care of my day from 7.30 a.m. until now. I bought two quarts of ice cream down at 103 in Wallace. One quart <? blk> sampling, and 1 quart vanilla. They still sell it for 15 cents per pint. Don’t know how they do it as it is much richer than most ice cream nowadays. They have their own dairy farm, which is one reason I suppose. I like to have it on hand as Ronnie likes it once in a while, altho he usually doesn’t eat it until it is melted. He says "It’s too cold, Mommy". The Pages always ask me to say hello, but I seldom remember to tell you. Oh yes, and tell that nice sergeant of yours, hello for me too. Ronnie says not to worry about his trains being broken up, just come home and get some more. All our love, Mommie and Ronnie. V-MAIL ...

28 Mar March 28, 1945

Posted at 17:22h in Letters

v-mail from: George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler March 28, 1945, France Sat. 6 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad plans music lessons for Ronnie. page 2 Hello again, In one of your letters you mentioned how nice the Pages are to you. I am really glad we were certainly fortunate in getting them upstairs. Also said they took you and Ronnie to a show. I am glad Ronnie likes music. It would suit me to have him take lessons even though he is a little young yet. However, I would rather he start out on the piano and since we have no piano, that kind of creates a problem. Guess he is really too young at that. I have sent you a couple three newspapers this week and two real long special letters. I hope they reach you. They might even give you a little sense of the real way things are over here. The war’s news is exceptionally good today 3rd Army across the Rhine and also a new airborne landing across the Rhine. It probably won’t end by April 1st as I had hoped, but could very possibly be all over now before many of us realize it. I hope it is. How’s my little Ronnie tonight and is he helping Mommy plant her victory garden? Or is there one? You’d better plant one. I might get home in time to help you eat it. Love, Daddy ...

29 Mar March 29, 1945

Posted at 18:48h in Letters

March 29, 1945, Thursday, midnight Page 1 Darling, Hi. How are you? Love me? Coming home soon? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if one knew that on a certain date you could get on that boat and head for home? I just wouldn’t know how to act, I’m afraid. I’m afraid it may be a long time, so I try to keep from being overly optimistic, although it’s nice to dream at times. I overslept this morning of all days as Lillian (Elsie’s sister) and her youngest boys (one and three years old) were coming for lunch. It was nine o’clock when I got up. It was so rainy and dreary that I’d liked to have stayed in bed even longer. But I sure rushed around when I got up as I dressed Ronnie and myself, prepared and ate breakfast, baked a pie, and fixed a jellied salad, cleaned the house, and so on, all before 12.30. Everything turned out okay, however, and Lillian said she enjoyed her lunch very much. We had scalloped ham and potatoes, buttered green beans, jellied salad containing chopped carrots, celery, Page 2 apple and green pepper with lettuce, fresh blueberry pie with ice cream and coffee, and hot Parker House rolls and jelly. Her one year old is just starting to walk and kept us on pins and needles throughout the meal by trying to pull the tablecloth off, got hold of a big strainer, and hammered some nicks into our cedar chests and chairs and generally into everything. She must have her hands full with her three boys, one, three, and five years old, and all little devils. Everyone of them still wet their pants night and day. Imagine? Ronnie hasn’t done that for more than a year now. Of course, he’s an exception because he’s yours and mine. With three on my hands, however, I doubt whether he’d be trained as well. Everything she tells her children goes in one ear and out the other. Her three-year-old is bigger than Bobby and he’s four now and her five-year old looks about seven or eight. Of course, Lillian and Elsie are good-sized and their brother is six fett six inches tall and husky. Lillian said Ronnie looks more like his Daddy every time she sees him. I got a letter from my honey today, dated March 20th and 21st. A nice long letter too. Good Page 3 for you! You mentioned colored people in your letter. I hear several English girls are trying to get over here, having married black boys. I understand they pose as American Indians over there. The blacks are getting bolder here all the time too. The Chicago Theater is full of black customers now, and any restaurant has as many black as white customers now-a-days. Quite a few have accosted white women assaulting and robbing in IC stations lately. They have picketed the <? Trianon> Ballroom several times, demanding admissions, but has yet haven’t gained entrance, but will eventually. I expect. I do feel sorry for them, and it’s a pity that they were ever brought here as slaves. But it will be a big problem after this war, I’m afraid. I had a letter today from Helen Saof and Norman Nelson (of Rockford) who are coming in to visit me April 15th. They want to see a play "Touch of Venus" with Many Martin and John Bales (light opera) and go to eat at the Page 4 Shangri-La Restaurant on State Street. I’m expected to go to, but don’t know where I can get the extra money to go. I’ll manage somehow, I expect, although how, I haven’t figured out as yet. Maybe Judy can furnish another litter of pups by then. I actually got $43 altogether for the other batch. although I spent $4 for tail amputations and $2 for ads plus food for five pups for seven or eight weeks. She’ll have to have thoroughbreds next time or else. Out of a clear sky a couple of weeks ago when I asked Ronnie to do something or other for me, he replied, okay, "Mommy Darling"! I was so surprised to hear that and I said, "Thank you, honey. I like that". Since then, every time he does something, he shouldn’t and I bawl him out, he says, "I’m sorry Mommy darling". And I, and right away, of course, I melt right then and there, and does he take advantage of it! He is getting just as smart as his daddy, it seems. Page 5 You mentioned having been offered an athletic director job. Is this for occupation armies <? diversion>, or what? I’m getting so sleepy, honey. My eyes hurt and I can hardly keep them open. It’s way past my bedtime. Ronnie had a haircut again today and the barber on 115th asked about you. How you were and so on. I’m stopping now. I may add a line or two in the morning. Friday, March 29, 1945, 3:00 p.m. Here ’tis another day and I have so much to do, but no ambition. Seems as each holiday comes, it’s harder to face alone. I keep thinking if you were home, we’d be very busy buying an Easter basket for Ronnie and possibly planning what to do on Easter Sunday. We’d have a nice dinner at home and go for a ride, possibly visiting. It’s funny how ordinary, common place things seem so nice now when we can’t be together to do them at all. We’re Page 6 certainly going to have to do just lots of things when you get home to make up for this long time apart. The weather is dreary today too, which probably has a lot to do with my low spirits. It’s dark, dreary, and rather cool. I think I’ll go to Rockford tomorrow morning in spite of Chuck and Betty not being home on Sunday. Elsie from <? Beloit> sent me a card today saying she’d be in Rockford tomorrow night and we’ll go to a show with me. She’s in the same boat I am, so maybe we can cry together. Joe was in New Guinea (with the Navy), but is now in the Philippines, so I imagine she’s worried about him. I’d also like to see Eleanor and Jackie’s new baby son, so maybe I can go there on Sunday. Ronnie will be getting up soon, so we’ll go out to mail this letter. Darling, I hope you have as nice an Easter as possible and just remember I’ll be with you in the Spirit if not in person. I love you very much and God alone knows how much I miss you. All our love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

29 Mar March 29, 1945

Posted at 14:04h in Letters

from: Alice Shonkwiler to: Private George W. Shonkwiler. March 29, 1945, Good Friday Night, Hello honey, Well, tonight my letter will be very short and sweet, but I just couldn’t wait to send the enclosed snaps of Ronnie. I think they are darling, don’t you? The one especially where he is laughing and has that gleam in his eye. As long as the film is so scarce, I thought I could have these photos taken at people’s store every once in a while. Do you think Ronnie has changed much since you saw him? He is losing that baby look and looks more boyish, don’t you think? You can tell by the devilish look in his eyes, he’s full of dickens as ever. After Ronnie’s nap this afternoon, we brought his shoes down to shoe repair shop for new heels and was told to pick them up at six o’clock. After supper, we got them and when Ronnie suggested going to the show, I gave in and we went to the Parkway to see "When the lights go on again", which was about a soldier suffering from shell shock or combat fatigue as it’s called now. The other feature was with Dennis Morgan, (I can’t remember the title), but concerned a war marriage. I shouldn’t see this type of picture as they hit too close to home. Well, after writing you this afternoon, I decided not to go to Rockford after all. Don’t know what I’ll do as yet. Perhaps take Ronnie to the Chicago Theater in the afternoon and Sunday school in the morning. I thought of asking the <? Tostis’> over, but then I’d spend all day in the kitchen and that’s no fun for me either. Well, honey, as I wrote a few lines this afternoon, I’ll close now and hope you like Ronnie’s pictures and let me know if you think he looks OK. (there are three pictures) Good night, darling. Sweet dreams, all my love. Mom and Ronnie. ...

31 Mar March 31, 1945

Posted at 14:25h in Letters

V-MAiL from: Private George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler, March 22, 1945, Thursday, 9 p.m. Page 2, Hello again. Something very nice happened to Sweeney here tonight. We got another bunch of new men <$ enr> from the States and as we were calling the roll, a fellow from came forward that lived two doors from him back in <? Berns> Indiana. He had just been on leave before coming down and had seen his wife and children. They are really having a <? rewards>. Now why couldn’t something like that happen to me? Maybe I’ll run into deal like that someday. Who knows? Again, there is nothing new on my status and it’s beginning to look more and more like I’m going to be stuck here. There are worse places but <? sicol> <? priot> just sure where they are. One good thing has been the weather though. It’s really like summer here except for the mornings which still are rather chilly. Just built a fire a few moments ago. It’s been out all day. <? Guils> wish I could see both you and Ronnie right about now. Some times it seems as <? draness> say that I’ll get what you look like. Guess you haven’t changed much though. Love you both daddy. ...

31 Mar March 31, 1945

Posted at 16:36h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler March 31st, 1945. Saturday, 1 o’clock a.m. (Sunday?) Noteworthy: Mom’s wisdom on raising children. Hello, darling, I just came down from spending the evening upstairs and we had coffee, crackers, cheese and I brought up a couple pieces of pie to eat. Seems we eat every night, either up there or down here. The Pages are certainly nice, and I only hope we get alone half as well after 21 years of married life. Of course, there are always a few more things to disagree on when raising children. But I rather think we think pretty much alike when it comes to our children’s welfare and hope they will never hear us disagreeing in their presence at least, because that atmosphere tends to drive children away from home. I’ve always wanted my kids (plural) to feel they could bring their friends home at any time. (Hope my views won’t change with old age.) Here I’m planning our life 21 years from now, and I’ve actually only been married 5 1/2 months. I spent most of today cleaning house, then went on the Avenue to buy myself a pair of shoes. When I got there, Ronnie got a new pair of white shoes, and I got a shine on my old shoes. Imagine? He’s had two pair in three weeks, one for play, and one for dress. Bye, love, Mom and Ronnie. ...

01 Apr April 1, 1945

Posted at 22:31h in Letters

From: Alice ShonkwilerTo: George Shonkwiler,April 1st, 1945, Easter Sunday, 9.25 p.m. My darling, Today is Easter and I had hoped (and so had millions of others, I suppose) that hostilities in Europe would cease today. It was rumored that it was to be our Easter gift. I was skeptical and yet I’m so disappointed that it wasn’t true. This morning Ronnie and I attended Sunday School, which today was for children and their parents. Mrs. Nirke and Mrs. Montine were there, so that helped to keep me from being too lonely during services. This is Ronnie’s second Sunday and he seems to enjoy it very much and shook hands with Reverend Hanson as we left. Just in case you didn’t get last Sunday’s letter, I started Ronnie to Sunday School at the Nazareth Lutheran Church on 113th and Union. I hope that is okay with you. After Sunday School, we came home and Mr. and Mrs. Page gave Ronnie an Easter book about Easter bunnies, real cute. Later, Bobby brought him an Easter basket, although I didn’t give Bobby one. (I had sent him an Easter card, however.) Then I gave him an Easter basket too, so in all, he got four Easter baskets and one book, quite a haul, don’t you think? One each from <? Edamae>, Joan, Bobby and me and a book from the Page’s. After lunch, Ronnie and I took the IC down to the loop and after a pretty long wait, finally got into the Chicago Theater. We saw, "Here comes the Waves" with Bing Crosby, Betty Hutton, Sonny Tufts. It was pretty good and from Lou Brees and his band, plus a stage show. I paid 95 cents admission for myself and when I got to the ticket taker, he said I had to buy a ticket for Ronnie. Imagine? that was 30 cents. I always hold Ronnie in my lap but decided he should occupy a seat today as long as it was paid for. He likes to sit on his own seat anyway but didn’t feel he should when I didn’t pay for him. They really rob you in the theater now. It was only one o’clock, so suppose it’s still ighter in the evening. After the show, I had quite a time finding a place to eat. Finally, we, as a last resort, stopped at the Pixley and Ellen’s Restaurant on Randall near Michigan. We had spaghetti, apple pie and coffee and milk for 51 cents, which wasn’t bad, but they didn’t serve butter. and eating hard rolls without butter or jelly isn’t too pleasant at least on Easter. Ronnie wasn’t pleased either and when I told him there was no butter, he just ignored his roll. All in all, I didn’t have too unpleasant a day, although I was doggone lonesome. This is the first Easter of my life. I’d been so completely alone. It was a good thing I had Ronnie or it would have been unbearable. He missed his nap today, but was a pretty good boy in spite of that. As for our Easter outfits, they were the same as last year (and the year before), except for Ronnie’s new white shoes and sox and hat, which I made for myself at the cost of $1.30. I wore my brown gabardine suit, my lime green blouse, and my hat was also lime green, white gloves and brown shoes. Ronnie wore a white blouse, red corduroy trousers, navy blue sox, white shoes and the tan coat and hat I made for him last year. He looked cute and was flirting with several pretty girls while waiting in the theater lobby just like his pop! I just heard over the air just now that the turnout in the churches today was bigger than ever before. I guess at a time like this, a little spiritual help is good for everyone and of course people had lots of money and new clothes this year, too, which always helps the Easter church turnout. I certainly saw some beautiful clothes, but think I got by just as well in my old clothes. There was no one to care how I looked anyway. This noon I received a special delivery air mail letter from your brother’s wife, Catherine. She said she’d be at the Dearborn Station at 9.45 a.m. Thursday April 5th, and I’m to meet her there and she and the kiddies will come home with me to spend the day until 11.30 p.m. when her train comes in for Los Angeles. I’m enclosing her letter. How I envy her! Just think if all I had to do was take a train to see you. Here I may have to wait months or years. (Let’s settle for months.) I called Gladys so she and Joyce will come in too. Where on earth I’ll find anything to feed them I don’t know as I’m out of red points. There will be nine of us counting all the kiddies -- Poor me! It will be very plain fare, I can tell you, as I am pretty broke too. I’ll manage somehow, at least I have so far. I tried to call Mrs. Donald Sweeney tonight at 8 o’clock, but her mother (or whoever it was) said she stays in Fort Wayne during the week and only comes to Bernie on Sundays, but had left for Fort Wayne at 4 o’clock this afternoon. I’ll call again next Sunday. I’d have called her this morning but you specified Sunday evening in your letter. Today was a pretty nice day altho not too sunny. It was quite warm, but pretty windy, and on our way home we were caught in the rain. We only had to run from the IC to the car so that wasn’t bad. It didn’t start to rain until 7 o’clock so everyone had a chance to display all their new clothes. Before Ronnie went to sleep tonight, he asked me where Daddy is now. I told him France and he said, "Oh". I’m sleeping now and I wrote to Catherine before I wrote this so I’ll say bye now. All my love always, Mom and Ronnie. ...

01 Apr April 1, 1945

Posted at 18:53h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler Sunday 11 A.M. April 1, 1945 France Noteworthy: Dad receives 111 letters this week. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Well it has finally happened. They looked me up this morning and told me I am shipping out. I’m all packed now and ready to go. Will leave right after lunch so I’m spending this little time writing you what probably will prove to be my last special letter. As I don’t expect to get this privilege at the next stop. Can’t quite figure out what I’m going into. All I’ve been able to find out so far is that I am going to a depot in Paris as a general clerk. However, from Paris according to the orders, I am going someplace else. Just where that is I do not know. I rather hate to leave here because Sweeney and I seem to have hit it off pretty well and he has treated me very nice as you probably can tell by this time. I am having him send you fifty dollars for me and don’t be surprised too much if someday you might get some more. All of which I will explain about in due time. Today is Easter Sunday and as far as we know here the war is still going on. That’s another bet I lost. Had planned on going to church today some way but of course shipping out changed all that. One thing I am very glad for is that I stayed here long enough for a lot of my mail to catch up with me. Those twenty letters yesterday[,] page 2 twenty-eight the day before and sixty-three last week certainly brought me pretty well up to date back home. Still have received no packages from anyone. The two I got while in the hospital are the only ones I have ever received from anyone since leaving England way last October - except the two boxes of powders. That is not a very good record on packages, is it? Perhaps when I get my new assignment now and really settle down they will all catch up with me - I hope. There isn’t a whole lot more to tell just now. Naturally I am very anxious to learn just what my new job is going to be and where I’m going. Certainly hope it isn’t at something that is going to keep me here a long time after the war. The big trouble with the army is you never know and don’t seem to ever have much to say about it. Unless of course you are on the in and know someone who is big enough to have influence. So far I haven’t had any luck along those lines to amount to much. However, I’m still convinced that competition and ability is what counts when one gets back to civilian life so I’m not too worried about my status in the army. There are millions just like me. I guess we can’t all be wrong. Time to go now my dears, keep your fingers crossed and I will keep you as well informed as to my whereabouts as I can. Notice the small o’s over my i’s in my letters after this. [I] will send you some information that way maybe sometime. I’m still well having a little stomach trouble and some skin trouble again. Nothing serious. Tell Edith Kaither I received her two long letters and keep working on that getting me home proposition on [what] page 3 I wrote you about that last week. [I] Think you might be able to do some good if the right party gets to working on it. Please send me the camera and some film first class insured mail[.] as [As] soon as the war ends [I] would like to take a few pictures while over here if possible. That’s all for now. How’s my little Ronnie today? Certainly have been getting some very nice reports about both of you of late. Don’t think I don’t appreciate what a good job you are doing my dear. Only wish I were there to help you. Just stick it out a little longer and some of these days I will be. That will be the day. All my love to you both, Daddy [PS] If you send the camera be sure and wrap it against moisture and breakage as well as you can. ...

02 Apr April 2, 1945

Posted at 16:31h in Letters

V-Mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 2nd 1945 Monday 11:55 p.m. Noteworthy: Mom observes Dad’s good luck; Mom gives food advice. Hello honey, I received two V-Mails today written March 22nd and you really sound pretty disgusted with your present location. Don’t feel that way honey ’cause after all think how lucky you really are not being in combat and also think how lucky you were when wounded. Some of these boys are missing eyes, arms, or legs and still have to make the best of it although their chances for a normal life again are completely gone. You and I can someday take up where we left off and be happier than ever before knowing how close we came to being separated forever. I should be telling you anything about being cheerful! I probably get the blues even oftener than you do but usually can forget them by thinking how lucky I really am and cheer myself up by thinking of a a rosy future that we will someday have if all goes well. I’m sorry to hear that your stomach is so bad lately. Perhaps your trouble is the same as mine and if you stop eating <? rangbage>, such as whole wheat cereals, fresh fruit, and raw vegetables you would feel better. I know I do. Also avoid anything laxative such as prunes and fresh fruit juice. See you next page. Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

02 Apr April 2, 1945

Posted at 14:16h in Letters

V-MAIL from: PFC Albert Evers to: George Shonkwiler St. Quentin, April 2, 1945. Noteworthy: letter to Dad from a fellow soldier Dear Wes, I received your letter of March 17th today and was sure glad to hear from you. I wrote to you about a week ago, but I used an old address so that this letter may reach you before that one. I was certainly sorry to hear that you were wounded and hope it was not serious. How are you feeling now? I have been very fortunate all the while I have been in the Army, and my present location is all that I could hope for in the ETO. I am in the X-ray department of our hospital and sleep on the third floor with nine other X-ray technicians. We have a wonderful setup as far as our work is concerned, and I hope you can either come here or I can get to Paris before you leave. I get a day off every ten or eleven days, but I think I would need a couple of days to visit Paris. That way the transportation is over here. I suppose you have ridden the French Railroad and know what I mean. I’ve had several rides myself. If the sensor cuts the name of the town out of my letter, you can find out where I am by my APO number through the Red Cross. I am off next Thursday as if by any chance I can get a ride in one of our trucks. I’ll look you up or leave word at the Red Cross. Your friend Al ...

02 Apr April 2, 1945

Posted at 16:33h in Letters

V-Mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 2nd, 1945, Monday page 2. Hi again, honey, I was supposed to meet Muriel downtown today as she quit her job on the N. Side and is going to Appleton, Wisc. on Wed., but it was pouring down rain all day today and cold and windy, so I stayed at home. She asked me to meet her tomorrow, but I said no as I’m so busy cleaning. She said she may come out here sometime tomorrow to see me. I cleaned and washed all my lower cupboards today, plus cleaning the stove too. Tomorrow I have to wash clothes and the kitchen <? cuting>, if it doesn’t rain again, as I’d like to hang clothes outside. After supper tonight, Ronnie and I went over to the Homes’ for a while. They had received a V-Mail, too, from you dated March 22nd. I got home at 8:30, put Ronnie to bed, and later the Pages came down for a cup of coffee, donuts, crackers, and cheese. Gosh, I’m kind of worried about Judy, as Ronnie let her out a couple of times without my knowledge and she’s getting pretty fat again. I certainly hope not. I couldn’t go through that all over again a second time. Time will tell. Got an unexpected real estate tax bill of $43.00 (total) for your 103rd Street lot making total taxes $103.00. All our love, Mom and Ronnie ...

02 Apr April 2, 1945

Posted at 23:52h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 2 April 45, France. Monday 9 P.M. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Time out a few minutes to let you know I am on my way again and still alright. Left Ballan Court [Billancourt], France yesterday, arrived here last night and I am just waiting for the next move which probably will be tomorrow. This camp here is much larger and quite a bit nicer than the last one. However, so far I never stay in the nicer camps, so don’t imagine this stop will be long. Am anxious to get to my new assignment so it doesn’t matter much. Played a little softball today, saw a real good softball game tonight and have just come from watching part of a GI show. Am now in the company day room writing this letter. After I finish this I am off to bed as I have to stand reveley [reveille] here and I am not used to doing that of late working with Sweeney really spoiled me about a lot of things. By the way he is supposed to send you <? $50 > for me. Let me know if you get it. Daddy ...

04 Apr April 4, 1945

Posted at 17:19h in Letters

V-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler April 1945 France Wed. 7.30 p.m. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Here it is Wednesday and still no further towards where I am going than I was this time Sunday evening. The army certainly can be very slow at times. Have been spending the last three days loafing, mostly. Now if I were home loafing would be very nice but you can’t imagine how monotonous it gets here. There is nothing to do in the daytime because the day room and Red Cross, etc. is [are] closed. Then at nite they are always so crowded that one gets no enjoyment going there. Why they [are] ever called the day by that name is beyond me. I’ve never yet seen one open to soldiers during the day. So until I get to wher ever I’m going, there isn’t any news, no mail and nothing to write about. It just came from watching a ball game. I’ve played myself the other day and have been so stiff ever since can hardly walk, will <? have to> write more some other day. Love to you both. Daddy ...

05 Apr April 5, 1945

Posted at 17:21h in Letters

V-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5 April 45 - France Thur. 8 p.m. Noteworthy: softball is an important activity among soldiers. Dearest Alice and Ronnie: Another day and still nothing new and still here. Guess I told you last night how disgusted all this lying around doing nothing and waiting is so wqon’t go into that again. I’m in the company day room now waiting for dark and an outdoor movie. Have just come from watching a softball game. Softball seems to be the universal game over here. Everyone plays it and the games are so hotly contested as though there were thousands of dollars bet on each game. I’m still plenty stiff from playing Monday myself. Guess I forgot to tell you that our theater here is an outdoor job. Since we have double summertime it doesn’t get dark until about 9 p.m. It’s after 8 p.m. now and still very light out. I remember that summer when I first came over here[,] it was still light enough to read at 11 p.m. Some place isn’t it? Still hope to move tomorrow but don’t know. Have you received the sixty dollars I sent you yet? Feel fine considering everything. Met another boy from my outfit. Some of his news wasn’t too good. Love, Daddy ...

05 Apr April 5, 1945

Posted at 13:17h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 5 April 45 [5 May 45] France Sat. 9:30 P.M. Noteworthy: Dad once again urges Mom to sell the house, move to Glen Ellyn and work for Chamberlin, this time as a spy for information he wants to know. Dad talks about getting hit resulting in his injury - five of his fellow squad members were killed. Hello My Dears, Received some very nice letters today. An even one dozen in all and the latest mailed April 26, just written the 24th. Certainly is good to have news that is only about one week old. That’s the first time that’s happened since I came over here. This one was especially nice because it told of you taking Ronnie to the doctor and how well he is. Can’t get over how much he has grown. Six <? mekis> seems an awful lot. Guess he is really pretty much a man at that. Certainly was good to hear that he is so healthy also to learn that you are putting on a pound or two. Had no idea you resented me telling you how I felt about how well you are taking care of him. Will say no more about it although I am sure you have misunderstood my intensions. All the nice things you tell of what Ronnie says and does certainly goes over big with me. Even some of the things he picks up from the neighbors is cute but I realize that they are not always exactly what page 2 he should be saying. However he wouldn’t be natural if he didn’t learn some of the bad things along with many of the good ones. I had expected to go downtown to the show tonite but we had chow late, then I read your letter and by the time I finished it was almost too late to go. Besides it was raining a little so have stayed in except for a short walk. Am now in my room alone, except for one other stay in, writing you. My Saturday nites are about as gay as yours. I get my two days off Mon. and Tues. though, and am expecting to go into Paris as sort of a vacation. I plan on taking advantage of those trips as much as possible as there is always something to see and it’s very inexpensive. Guess I don’t average spending over 100 frances a trip. In fact unless one does a lot of drinking and running around with women he can’t spend much so practically everything is either free or given us at cost price or less. Of course if I were to try and get by on just my legal pay of $16 per month (especially when page 3 I haven’t even been paid that - they say I’ll get paid now though) I would probably find it a little tough. As you know I am managing all right though. Certainly glad to get Sweeney’s letter you enclosed in one of yours and to learn he sent you the money. I thought I could trust him but was not quite sure. He came through though and that’s what counts. I also got the letter with Mr. Chamberlin’s letter enclosed. Of course that answered my question about you working there. I’m very disappointed, especially since you stated that you wished there had been some thing you and he could have worked out. I am still very much interested in you going out there. Especially if you can sell the house for fourteen thousand. Why don’t you take a drive out there and have a talk with him. You could offer to work there part time for a few dollars a week plus maybe do a little selling, and believe me that would not be so hard to do, and still have page 4 a good opportunity to find out what I want to know. The information that you might get could very easily be worth a great deal to us and be far more important than the little money you may or may not make there or working someplace else. You know I feel pretty optimistic about my chances of coming home some time in the next six months. What you could learn between now and that time working out there could very easily mean the difference in making the right move towards getting settled after the war and making the wrong one. I’m too old to make a wrong move now even if he has allowed someone to take over part of the office I’m sure if you were to tell him you would like to try your hand at selling a little too on a commission basis he would be glad to work out a deal with you. I also received two old letters from Murray. One written last Dec. the other Feb. Since I just answered one I received from him written in April you can tell him I received them but will probably wait until I get a letter <? one> now before writing again. I also got a letter from page 5 my Sgt. back with [the] 95th division. I had asked him how many of our squad were injured when I got hit. We were all together at the time. He said he was the only one not injured and he was shaken up considerably. Five of them killed. You remember I told you about the chicken dinner I had cooked for the boys the evening before we were hit. That’s what he referenced to. Well that’s one chicken dinner I’ll never forget either. I am enclosing the letter. Hold on to it. Glad to hear Tostis are getting a house. Unless I’m badly mistaken Murray is making something in the deal. However, that’s all right because after all if he sells them a house he is entitled to a commission. I wouldn’t have paid $6500 for the house they were living in either. Whether or not they are getting a good buy on the new one is something else. At least they have to have a home to live in, and they can’t go far wrong on a new house. By the way should you sell our house [I] would advise not living upstairs. For many things they might want to come back on you about it’s best to get out altogether and under no circumstances sell for anything less than all cash. page 6 Boy it really burns me up to[o] when I hear how many packages you have sent me and how few of them I have received. If they are worth what you say they are[,] they are worth four or five times that amount over here. oh well maybe I’ll get them yet - someday. I was able to buy one roll of 120 film today - a real break. Hope to take some nice pictures while in Paris Monday. Send me all the 120 film you can possibly buy. Will soon know now how this cheap camera I bought is. I’m keeping my fingers crossed. It looks like maybe a few pictures will be the only souvenirs I’ll be able to bring back with me. All I had were left at the front and I’m too far back here to get anything worthwhile now. Must close now my dears, as I still have to shave and I want to answer Sgt. Lave’s letter also write one to Sweeney. Oh yes[,] got the letter with Paul Smith’s letter enclosed. Norma writes me he got married a short time ago. I’m glad. All my love to you both and Ronnie old boy your Daddy is going to be home to play with you and your trains someday yet. Until then bye for now, Daddy ...

06 Apr April 6, 1945

Posted at 13:59h in Letters

V-MAIL from: PVT George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler March 26, 1945, Mon. 9 PM Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Another long day, with another barracks full of new men. Handling new men after a long day in Paris, and only about <? far> <? houts> sleep is not too much fun. The day is about <? over> through and as soon as I finish this I am climbing in the hay And I do mean straw. Had a very nice time yesterday, Sunday, in Paris. Saw a couple shows, walked around a little and was lucky enough to bump into a couple men that were in the hospital with me back in England. Since I had gone in alone, it turned out pretty nice. As I had expected all the stores were closed so no Easter present for you just now. Instead, we will send you some money probably tomorrow. Suppose you can really use that better anyway. Am sending you a couple papers I bought in Paris yesterday talking all about the Rhine crossing. We are very hopeful now over here of an early victory. Wouldn’t that be something? No more mail <? since> last week, and still no packages. Will try to write you a long letter tomorrow. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

06 Apr April 6, 1945

Posted at 13:40h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 6, 1945 Friday, 8:30 P.M. Noteworthty: Mom scolds Dad royally for telling her confidences. Hello, honey, Here I am again after an absence of two days. That is I haven’t written for two days. I’m sorry. I’ll try not to let it happen again. But I’ve been pretty busy with the Shonkwiler clan, so hope you’ll forgive me. Wednesday I had to shop for meat, groceries, etc., plus, washing the kitchen ceiling and woodwork and washing and waxing the kitchen and bathroom floors. The floor part was a waste of time, as all the kids had black reclaimed rubber heels and the floors are all streaked in black. And the stuff is almost impossible to scrub off. Even all my newly varnished floors are all streaked. And the washing of kitchen walls was also needless as they’re all fingerprinted now - oh me! Wednesday evening I spent making my gelatin salads and the lemon chiffon pie. All in all, I was pretty tired by the time I went to bed. This morning Ronnie and I got up at 7 o’clock in order to get down to the Dearborn station to meet Catherine and the children. page 2 We took the I.C. down and walked over to the Dearborn station. I found them very easily, and as it was cold out and all her kiddies had spring clothes on and bare-legged, I got a cab to take us back to the I.C. Catherine was very easy to get acquainted with and all the kids seemed to fall for me right away. They certainly are a grand bunch of kids. The two oldest, Bobby and Sonny, wanted to stay behind and live with me. Imagine? They’re 7 and 9 yrs old, Jimmy is 4 and Carol Ann 5. When we got home, we had lunch, as follows: Vegetable soup, Parkerhouse rolls, Ritz crackers, butter, peach and prune and cottage cheese salad, and for dessert, Jell-o, (with peaches, bananas and oranges in it and cream) and milk and tea. Boy, can those kids eat? Of course, I s’pose eating was probably rather makeshift on the train, as they didn’t eat in the diner. She came in on a coach, but for her trip to California they have a compartment, which will be nicer, as there are two bunk beds in it at night and in the daytime, it has the 2 seats and a table, also a wash bowl and a toilet. I will take her from 11:30 o’clock Thurs nite (last nite) until Sunday morning. page 3 That’s two nights and 2 days and that’s a long time to be traveling with 4 children - oh me! After lunch, we tried to put Ronnie, Jimmy, and Carol Ann to bed in the bedroom, but that was a miserable failure as neither Jimmy nor Carol Ann would stay in bed. Gladys and Joyce came in at 4:30, and we had dinner at 5:30, which consisted of jello salad (with carrots, apples and celery) on lettuce, baked escalloped potatoes and ham, buttered green beans, hot parker house rolls, lemon chiffon pie or jello, and coffee, tea and milk. I guess it tasted O.K., as they had 2nd and 3rd helpings. All in all everything went very well, considering we had six children in the house. No accidents, a few brawls but that’s all. Everyone wanting the same toys at the same time, etc. It was too cold for them to play out of doors, or they probably have had more fun. It’s costing Forrest about $400.00 to get his family to L.A., and some of the furniture such as; washing machine, refrig, bed, and page 4 living room set. It costs more than it’s worth to ship furniture, but of course nowadays the trouble is one can’t replace the stuff. Since Fuzzy is Ph. Mate 2/c now, he gets I imagine about $85.00 per month pay, plus $90.00 per month subsistence, as he has to furnish his own lodging and food. This plus the allotment gives them a fairly good wage. Of course part of the allotment comes out of his pay, so they must actually get about $235.00 per month from the Govt., plus rent from a house she owns in Bloomington. Of course with their family they can use plenty of money to good advantage. Say, honey, after this when I tell you anything in confidence, I wish you’d keep it to yourself. It seems every time I tell you anything, it pops right back at me. You’re certainly breaking Gladys’ and my friendship in a hurry. First you lit into her about not coming out last Labor Day, because I mentioned page 5 it to you. Now she tells me you jumped her for spending so much money. I wish you’d stop it, ’cause after all it’s really none of our business. It certainly was poor taste of you to tell her I told you she was spending too much money. I thought that men didn’t gossip, but guess I’m mistaken! I would think you’d want us to be on friendly terms instead of trying to get me in bad. It’s tough enough anyway to get along with in-laws, I’ve heard. If I found out that you said anything to her about she and Dick, that will be the last straw. Just consider yourself balled out, now. (This is one time you can’t talk back!) After dinner we sat around and talked and Gladys and Joyce left at 8:30, so I took them to the Kensington Station. When I came back Mr. Page said he’d drive us to the Dearborn Station, as I’m afraid to go downtown at night. In fact I’m not sure I’d care to drive in the loop as yet. At 10:00 o’clock the Pages, Catherine and kids and page 6 Ronnie and I started down to the station. I got on the train with her, helping with the kids etc, and they left at 11:30 P.M. I left Ronnie in the depot with the Pages and he cried terribly as I s’pose he thought I was going away on the train like Daddy did, poor kid! The depot was so crowded I was afraid to go out to the train with Ronnie and the other 4 kids too. I’d surely have lost one or two before we got there. Of course Catherine had the two youngest and I the 2 oldest boys. Ronnie was terribly jealous yesterday when the other kids would crawl up and around me when I sat on the davenport. This morning he said "The boys and girls hugged and kissed you didn’t they, Mommie?" I said "Yes, and do you want me to give you to Aunt Catherine and I’ll take the other boys and girls to live with me?." He said, "No, no Mommie, I want to stay with you, and i’ll hug and kiss you, too." I thought that was cute. I spent today cleaning up the remains of the cyclone we had yesterday with all page 7 the kids in the house. We also ate leftovers all day today. At 4:30 I mowed the front lawn. The grass was pretty long and it was cold and windy. I hate to think of the back lawn, as that’s even harder to do. I’m pretty sore all over right now, having washed walls, ceiling, etc. and the lawn mowing is the climax. Certainly wish I knew of someone who would do it for me. I also wish someone would wash the ceilings of the living, dining and bedrooms, and I think I could manage the walls. In fact I wish I could have both walls and woodwork painted all over. Everything looks so worn and faded. Well, I can dream, can’t I. that’s about all I can do about it. I have an earache and I’m sleepy too, so guess I’ll take a couple aspirin and go to bed. Goodnight, sweetheart, even if I bawl you out, I do love you, so just hurry things up over there and come home to, Mommie and Ronnie p.s I’ve heard that the boys in [the] occupation army can’t expect to get home before 1948. Gosh, I hope you don’t have to stay that long or I’ll just give up now. PPS Would send you chicken, but it is impossible to get any kind of poultry now as Army and Navy are getting it all they say. I got two envelopes containing Stars and Stripes and Paris edition of New York Herald,but no letters. ...

07 Apr April 7, 1945

Posted at 20:36h in Letters

V-Mail from: Pvt George Shonkwler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 7th April 1945 France Saturday 6:30 p.m. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Just got beat at a game of ping-pong. So while resting up for the next game will let you know I’m still here and getting along. I got beat because I hurt my leg playing baseball again yesterday. It’s nothing serious. It just prevents me from getting around like I should. At least I’ve beaten this kid before, so I’ve got a good excuse. Tonight makes one full week in this new camp. Fully expected to be all set in my new job by this time, but such is the way it goes. I have no idea when I’ll leave here, but have a feeling it will be soon now, because when ever I start getting mail in a place, I always leave it soon after. Last night I got my first package from Claude. It was mailed February 12th and came in excellent shape. It had four boxes of marshmallows, about a dozen Hershey bars with nuts in them, and a large can of fruit cocktail. It certainly is good. No letters since coming here, but then hardly expect any yet. Time for another game. May add words later. Lots of love, Daddy ...

07 Apr April 7, 1945

Posted at 20:35h in Letters

V-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 7th April, 1945, France, Saturday 8 p.m. Page 2 Hello again, Well, got beat again at ping-pong, so gave up and watched the last half of a softball game. Then back here to the day room and have written a letter to Claude and another to you now. After this it should be dark enough for the show to start, maybe, and that will take me up to about 10:30 p.m. and bedtime. Sounds very exciting, doesn’t it? It might be very good, except for the fact that that is all there is to do and it’s the same over and over again, and we can’t get up and pull out, should we feel like it. Prison must be awful. Did see a very good GI stage show last night about the best yet. Good music, singing, and all-around entertainment. Three or four days ago volunteered with three other fellows for care taking the baseball diamond. Not a bad job and makes the time go faster besides getting me out in the fresh air. Something I wasn’t getting back at the last place. My conditions showed it too. How is my little Ronnie today? You too, mommy. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

08 Apr April 8, 1945

Posted at 17:02h in Letters

April 8, 1945, Sunday, 11 o’clock p.m. (Note worthy: Mom’s consenting to let Dad enlist) Hi honey, Here ’tis Sunday again and the beginning of another week. Got up early again this morning and brought Ronnie to Sunday school. Aren’t I a good girl? His teacher told me he has to learn a Bible verse for next Sunday as the children get rating from Pvt. up to Captain etc.. according to how many Bible verses they can memorize. Isn’t that something? Wouldn’t it be funny if Ronnie becomes your superior officer? I guess Ronnie is the unruliest boy in class as she mentioned today that he just won’t sit still but hoped that he would after he got used to it. I guess that’s her problem as all I can do is coach him on the way to Sunday school, but that doesn’t have much effect on him. After Sunday school Ronnie played with Bobby for a couple of hours, then we had our dinner and off to bed he went. Mrs. Hyde (one of the buyers of one of Judy’s pup) called today saying the pup had a fit frothing at the mouth etc and asked me what to do for it. I didn’t know except to take it to the vet which they did. The vet gave it a distemper shot and kept it at the hospital for observation. She said she’d call me and let me know how it came out if it recovers etc. They said this pup was darling and the baby of the household. They have two girls, one 24 and the other 17. This pup was the most Cocker of the five and looked just like Judy. I’d like to see it now to see if it is still cute. I called Mrs. Sweeney at two o’clock this afternoon and I gave her your message. She said her husband had said some nice things about you, too and that you are a hard worker, etc. She said she’d write me a letter and also invited me to come to Berne sometime. Say what is this, a put up a job between you and your sergeant to boost each other’s wives morale? I called Jim and Martha about 2.30 and as today was a nice day (about 90 degrees) asked them to come out. They said they would and then I called Marge and Murray so Jim would have company. They all accepted and then I was faced with the problem of supper, as I have very little on hand nowadays. I went to the store for a loaf of bread, some milk and we had the following for supper, ham, salad and lettuce and cheese sandwiches, pickles, celery, coffee, cherry pie and ice cream and cookies and banana jello for the kiddies. After all, they can’t expect too much from me on my allotment money. Guess they had enough to eat so that’s all that matters. It’s so much simpler asking people over on the spur of the moment as I don’t have to work so hard on planning what to eat and so etc. The owner of Jim and Martha’s house are going to sell so gave Jim first chance on buying, but after looking at defense homes around 103rd and 95th with Murray this morning he decided the price was too high. (I don’t know what the price is as they didn’t say.) They may buy one of the defense homes instead as Murray tells him they are a good value. Of course they only intend living in these a few years until they can build on their own and figure it will be just as good or better than paying rent. Do you think they’re wise? I don’t as I doubt if they will get much for a defense home after the war when most people would rather build their own than pay today’s price for these homes then. Murray is sort of selling Jim on the idea but I wonder if he isn’t thinking of his commission on the sale rather than Jim’s welfare. Or am I prejudiced? Could be. Oh well I guess it’s none of my business anyway. They all left at 9 o’clock and after tucking Ronnie in bed I finally had a chance to read today’s paper. Isn’t it wonderful that we confiscated all their gold etc? I should think they’d have to give up now. Every day I wake up and hope that today will be the day. I doubt if I’ll believe it when it does happen. It’s midnight and the Pages aren’t home yet. I hate to go to bed knowing I’m alone in the house but guess I’ll have to. You mentioned going to Paris again in your V-mail. How did you manage to eat this time? More <? Vacs>? Dear me! I must not let on how jealous I am, must I? Helen Soaf and Norma Nelson are coming in from Rockford next weekend and will stay overnight. They’re both single (although one is engaged to a soldier) and who knows maybe we’ll go stepping -- mmm. We’re going to see the musical "A Touch of Venus" with Mary Martin and John Bales. And we also have reservations for dinner at the Shangri-La in the loop. It’ll be an expensive night for my purse, but guess I’m entitled to splurge once in a while every six months as I stay home 7 days and nights a week usually. Sometimes I wonder how I can take it but guess I’m getting used to it now. Just as I become accustomed to going out only once a week after we were married. Of course that was simple as you were still home with me. The other nights and boy what a difference that makes. I guess we didn’t appreciate that enough at the time or we’d never have taken the chance of you enlisting. If I had realized you were a 1-A specimen I probably have thought twice before I consented. That I am sure of now. How about a nice long letter honey to make up for all the V-mails I’ve had lately. I almost forgot the Hayes’ also were here this afternoon. (As if that is something new.) Well bye now and lots of unrequited (or something) love. Your loving wife and son, Mom and Ronnie. ...

09 Apr April 9, 1945

Posted at 20:39h in Letters

letter, partial from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler estimated date: April 9, 1945 Noteworthy: Dad says injured men are shipped back to the Army’s disposition. Page 5 Thought I would have a lot more to say today, but looks like I ran out last nite as I can’t think of anything to say now. Now if I could get about a dozen or so more up-to-date letters it might be different. If I do though think I will save it all for the next letter as this one should be long enough. Besides, there are still about a dozen other people’s letters I should answer. From what I’ve been seeing the last few days I’m kinda glad I didn’t get to go home when I was injured. We are getting men by the hundreds through here every day now. Fresh from the states. They have been in combat and injured in the S. Pacific, Italy, Africa and many other places <? were> have just long enough to get page 6 fixed up and even though they are L.A.[,] they have been sent back over here. Probably for [the] Army of occupation or something. I’d hate like hell to be sent home now just to stay a few weeks and then be sent to the S. Pacific. Personally I think it’s a rotten deal for those boys. They think so too. Well that’s definitely enough griping for one time. I wish you both a happy Easter and Ronnie don’t let those Easter bunnies get away from you. All my love to you both always, Daddy ...

10 Apr April 10, 1945

Posted at 17:16h in Letters

V-Mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 10th April 1945, France Tuesday, 9.30 p.m. Page 2. Hello again, Just came from a very good GI show. An eight-piece band with some good specialists. A singer formerly with John Jones Orchestra, Pete <? Ceruti>, supposed to be one of the three best accordion players in the States, a violin and <? operata> singer by name of Cominiki formerly with NBC and CBS, a sax player who had a band of his own in New Jersey, a very good tap-dancer and <? play> actor and some others. All a part of this company I’m in waiting just like I am for our next assignment. Special services here just picks these boys out as they come thru and have them put on a show in our open air theater. Tomorrow they may all be gone but tonight they gave us a little entertainment. It all helps. It’s been quite warm here the past few days and guess summer has arrived a little early compared to Chicago but I’ll take warm weather over here any day to the cold. This small stream we have running by this camp certainly lends to our wandering ways, specifically when we smell a detail coming up. As you can tell, I have managed some black ink, hope it makes for better reading of the V-Mail letters. Yours come through fine when I get them. Certainly hope I hear from you soon. Am feeling pretty good myself at present. Still can’t figure out why the war doesn’t end. How’s my little Ronnie? I miss you both very much. Hope you are both well, Daddy ...

10 Apr April 10, 1945

Posted at 17:11h in Letters

V-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 10th April 1945, France, Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Well into another week and still no news or no change in status. Guess I’m destined to float around in replacement depots forever. As in the last place, I am gradually getting used to this place and once accostumed to a place, one can always find a few good things about it to offset some of its bad ones. Things are not too bad here. The <? mess> hall <? desnind> detail I’m in with three other fellows I’ve been with since coming from England is proving to provide just enough work to make the time go by. We usually <? kick> off early enough at chow and in the afternoons to enjoy a little of the place. We have pretty good washing facilities here and the day room ping pong table and shows at night all help toward making things as agreeable as possible. I saw "Back Home in Indiana" last night. Remember we saw it together somewhere sometime a long time ago. At least it seems like one hell of a long time ago. Still haven’t received any mail since coming here except the package from Claude. I stopped trying to figure out this mailing system a long time ago and take my mail if and when I get it. May see you later, right now there is a G.I. show tonight so will see. Love to you both, Daddy ...

10 Apr April 10, 1945

Posted at 15:11h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 10th, 1945 Tues. midnight Dearest Wes, Here I am again! Better late than never, they say. I’ll bet you can’t guess what I did yesterday. Remember last week I told you I washed walls and ceiling in the kitchen. Well, yesterday I painted the walls and ceiling with semi-gloss enamel. The kitchen is now a beautiful aqua. I always said I painted yellow, but decided if I did, I’d have to buy new curtains, as they’re yellow and red and if the yellow on the walls were a different shade, I’d be out of luck. The aqua is a pretty contrast with my yellow curtains. If I do say it myself, I think I did a pretty nice job. I’ll bet you’re afraid to come home for fear the house is ruined by my papering, painting, and etc. Can’t say that I blame you a bit. I’m going to apply for membership in the painters and paper hangers union and make it my trade from now on. page 2 Mrs. Dixon was telling me I’m a fool to do all these things, as the less you know about men’s work the better off, as they might expect you to do those things all the time later. I told her that I wasn’t very worried, as I was sure you could and would see that I didn’t do any heavy work when you return. In fact I hope that when you come back I can take it easy as a change from my responsibilities now. Well, painting the kitchen cost me only $4.00 (and I have lots of paint left) and the painter wanted $30.00 for the job, plus buying my own paint. I’m pretty achy in all my bones and muscles as a result of it. but s’pose it’ll go away. To offset the aches there’s the thrill of accomplishment, so that helps (plus rubbing alcohol). I’ve had several letters the last day or two dated March 27th, 30th, and 31st. One included the $60.00 money order, and just in time, too, to help pay the first installment of taxes which is $80.70 (house) plus $21.50 (103rd St. lot), which. page 3 is a total of $102.20, and that’s a lot of money for my small income. Now, I’m wondering how to pay Ronnie’s $50 insurance in June, plus the second tax installment in September. You mentioned that Sweeney is sending another $50.00, which will help on Ronnie’s insurance at least. I hate to trouble you with my money problems, as I know you have problems of your own, but then again I know you’re interested in how I manage, too, so I think it’s your right to know. As yet I haven’t withdrawn any money from our accounts since you were home in July, and that’s something to my credit, don’t you think? Besides it’s fun to see how far I can make my income stretch. I haven’t spent my money for entertainment to speak of, but this week-end a couple girls (Helen and Norma) are coming in and we’re going to see the musical "A [One] Touch of Venus" with Mary Martin and John Boles, and also to have dinner at the Shangri-La. page 4 I expect the evening will cost me four or five dollars, but do think getting out with old friends will do me a lot of good for a change. The last time I went out for dinner was last November, no, it was September, at the Kungsholm, and that’s seven months ago, so you see I splurged very seldom. This afternoon while Ronnie had his nap (Mrs. Page was at home) I went up on the Avenue to pay the electric and phone bills. Ronnie and I had dinner upstairs with the Pages when I returned. It was very nice, we had: banana and lettuce salad, meatballs, mashed potatoes, gravy, carrots and green beans, and homemade custard pie and coffee. After dinner we went outside for a while, as we had 79.8 degree temperature for a nice change. Mr. Page played with Ronnie and Mrs. Page and I just sat and watched them. About 11:00 o’clock, we had more pie and coffee, although I page 5 was still full up to my ears from eating dinner. Ronnie, of course, was in bed before nine o’clock. Can’t think of any more news tonight, so guess I’ll sign off. It’s too bad you’re getting letters in such big bunches and so far between, as it’s much nicer getting them every day, I think. Of course, it’s nice getting them regardless, I s’pose. You mentioned my getting Edith’s help and the Red Cross, etc. Edith is about to quit her job at the draft board, or perhaps has already. I’ll try the Red Cross, but doubt whether it’ll do much good, as we both know there are thousands of men as eligible, or more so for discharge. I also heard that 90% of men overseas are either ulcer victims or boarding on it, either having them before, or getting them as a result of worry and nervous page 6 strain in the Army. Of course, as you say, it might help, and there’s no use passing up even a slight chance. Well, darling, good night and sweet dreams and keep on that narrow path, and I’ll do the same, on account of I love you for some undetermined reason. Maybe I’ll figure out why by the time you get here. All my love, always, Mom and Ronnie ...

11 Apr April 11, 1945

Posted at 16:26h in Letters

V-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 11 April 1945, France, Wednesday, 7 p.m. Dear Alice and Ronnie, Another short one to let you know that I’m still doing a lot of the same. I did get a letter from Al Evers tonight. It was written April 2nd, and he is at St. Quentin, about <censored> miles northeast of Paris, which makes him about <censored> miles from me at present. However, if I ever get located, expect to be much closer and certainly will try to see him some way, either in Paris or some other mutual place. Now if I would just hear from Dick, I would feel pretty good. Can’t help but wonder why he doesn’t write me as I’ve written him a half dozen times and I’m sure he must have received one of them anyhow. It’s been very warm here today. In fact, so warm that I had to shed my heavy woolen underwear and right now I’m still warm. Of course, just finished playing a couple games of ping pong which probably accounts for that. Still no mail from the one I really want to hear from. Thought surely I’d get some today. Have you received the $50 [I sent] yet? Lots of love to you both, Daddy. ...

12 Apr April 12, 1945

Posted at 14:06h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkeiler April 12, 1945, Thursday, 4 p.m. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, Raining today, in fact, has been raining a little all day so my duties on the baseball diamond are a little light just now. Looks very much like that detail has finally come to an end anyway. Looks like this will be the last nite in this place. Maybe after two months of this farce, I will get some place yet. But anyhow, rumor has it that we are leaving very soon now, and it can’t be too soon for me. Am including a stars and stripes and a twig off one of the many lilac bushes around here that are now in full bloom. That may give you some idea of how far the season is here over what you are having. Don’t suppose it’s even getting green around Chicago yet, or have I been away so long that I’ve forgotten how spring looks around there about this time of the year. page 2. There isn’t much additional news as I told you last night, of receiving Al Givens’ letter, and that he is in a hospital at -- censored -- somewhere near where I expect to be when I finally get settled. Also, all about how I have been sweating out this replacement depot for weeks and weeks until I’ve finally almost come to think of them as my home. If I ever again get in an outfit, the only way I will want to leave, is to get on that boat headed for the Statue of Liberty and Chicago. As you see by our Stars and Stripes, we have only a few miles to go now, and then Berlin will be in our hands, and we will join the Russians for a grand sweep south to wipe the Germans off the map. It still looks to me like all this can be done this month but I’m not counting too heavily on it. And at that, disappointments are getting to be routine so I might page 3 not feel so bad. Have you received those three special letters I wrote you while working for Sweeney. Does the article on the front page about able-bodied GIs in the States replacing us give you any knew [new] ideas? Keep your fingers crossed. May get to see you and Ronnie this year sometime yet. Wouldn’t that be wonderful? Well, I think it would. Saw "Hollywood Canteen" last nite. It was pretty good, but made us all too damn homesick. Some guys get all the breaks, even if it is in the <? marines>. Ronnie, my little boy, I have a nice little present for you, but have been waiting until I get one for your Mommie too so I can send them together. So far, no luck. Have a little patience I’ll get everything set yet some of these days. About time for Chow now, so will send all my love to you both and hope you are both well. Daddy ...

12 Apr April 12, 1945

Posted at 15:13h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 12, 1945 Thursday, 10.20 p.m. Noteworthy: Roosevelt dies; Dad considers selling the house. Dearest, Tonight is a sad night here in the USA, as I’m sitting here listening to memorial services for Franklin D. Roosevelt. They are also given [giving] recordings of some of his speeches, and it gives you an awful, funny feeling to hear his voice, and knowing he is dead. I understand that it is way past midnight in France and England and that you won’t know of his death until morning. I only hope and pray that Truman will do his job well, and make an effort to end the war as soon as possible. I don’t have as much faith in him as Roosevelt, and doubt whether he has the personality to deal with Stalin and Churchill satisfactorily. Maybe he will turn out better than, I think - I hope! With our armies only 50 miles from Berlin, it sounds hopeful for our side, and maybe any day now, they’ll give up. page 2 I just had some toasted cheese and also meatloaf sandwiches and coffee upstairs. Just as we were sitting there talking over a second cup of coffee, we heard a door open downstairs. Both Mrs. Page and I were scared to death. Mr. Page went to the head of the stairs and there was Ronnie with a toy dog under his arm coming up the stairs. He evidently heard us and decided he’d join us. When he came up, he promptly got up on their bed and crawled under the covers. It was all I could do to get him downstairs again. Martha Tosti stopped in at 9:00 o’clock tonight and brought me a pound or more of sliced bacon and a pound of oleo margarine. That may not sound like much to you, but I haven’t been able to buy bacon for a couple of months and oleo is eight points a pound, so you see it was a windfall. She didn’t want any money for it either, as she claimed she had received a lot of bacon and oleo as a page 3 gift and without points. I don’t like to get things that way, but guess points were paid for it originally, so I don’t feel too guilty. I imagine her folks, or his gave it to them. It was pretty nice of her to think of me, anyway. She and Jim had been out with Murray to look at a defense home, and are just about decided to buy. The foundation is up, but the home won’t be finished until July 1st. Gene Galassini was here this morning for a chat. He said you had written asking what he could get for our house. Are you serious? He said he wanted to know whether I approved of selling before he wrote you. I said it was O.K. by me if he could get a good price. He says he thinks he can get $13,000 for it. Boy, if he can, I really think we should sell, don’t you? Providing, of course that I can find a place to live. During the summer I wouldn’t mind page 4 going to stay at a lake. Catherine asked me to come to California with her, and then I could work, and she would care for Ronnie with her brood. I could even go out to visit Norma or your dad. I imagine I’d find some way of getting a place to live. Of course I’d miss not having a house, but then again, being relieved of all the work and responsibility of a house might be good for my health, too. Of course I rely on your good judgment as to whether or not this is a good time to sell, so whatever you say is O.K. with me. Of course it’s just anyone’s guess whether property will be low or high after the war, but my idea would be that with returning soldiers relieving the labor shortage, wages would become lower, and therefore new homes cheaper to build, consequently, older houses might go down in value accordingly. page 5 Do I make sense? Maybe not. Think it over, honey, and don’t do anything rash, or that you may regret in the future. Well, guess I’ll lie myself to bed, as I have to clean house tomorrow, so those gals will see a spick and span house when they come to visit Saturday. I have the hiccups, so maybe I’ll get over ’em if I go to bed. Ronnie told me this morning that "Someday Daddy will knock on the door, and he will say, Hye, Daddy, how are you?" etc, etc, etc. He went on in detail about you playing with his trains etc. Good night, darling, and love always and forever, Mom and Ronnie P.S. I had a V-mail (altho not photographed, but sent on just as it was mailed) dated Feb. 28th. ...

12 Apr April 12, 1945

Posted at 20:38h in Letters

v-mail card from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 12 April 45, France Hello! This little hello, with its friendly thought, is my way of saying, I miss you a lot! P.S. Thought you might like to hear from me in a different way and to learn that I still love you very much. Wes. ...

14 Apr April 14, 1945

Posted at 15:18h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 14, 1945 (very late) Darling, Well today has been a busy day. Remember my telling you the two girls from Rkfd. were coming in and we had tickets for "One touch of Venus" [musical] with Mary Martin and John Boles at the Opera House. Well, they came in at 11:00 A.M. and of course on acct of FDR’s funeral, all the stores in the loop were closed and we also found that there would [be] no matinee for the above musical and were told we could exchange them for another performance, which we did. The matinee tickets were $1.80, but tonite’s tickets were $3.00 - poor me! Before the show at the Opera House, we had dinner at the Shangi-la and the check for the three of us came to $11.94, plus $1.25 for the tip, which made a total of $13.21 [13.19]. I didn’t think we could eat that much! We didn’t even have dessert. We did have a couple West Indies daiquiris, however, page 2 each. We had some Chinese appetizers, then beef tenderloin with a lot of greens and rice, and some kind of lobster mixture. it was very good, but then it should be for that price. The girls paid the check and I paid only the tip, so guess I didn’t fare too badly at that. The atmosphere and service we had was wonderful and I did get enough to eat, which was more than I had at that Kungsholm restaurant we went to last Sept. The musical was pretty good and some of the songs and dances were very good, but I still think I’d just as soon see a good movie, anyday. As we left at 5:00 o’clock I brought Ronnie over to Virginia’s, because she hadn’t had her supper. When I kissed Ronnie goodbye he kept crying and clinging to me and saying "I want my Mommy", "I want to go with her." "Don’t leave me Mommy." I so very seldom go out page 3 without him, that he gets hysterical when I do - poor kid! In fact I only go out about once in 3 or 4 months, so he can’t figure out why I should ever leave him. He gets over it soon after I leave, but it almost breaks my heart to hear him cry. I shouldn’t feel that way, as I know I should get out oftener than I do. By the time I pay $1.00 to have someone care for him, I can’t afford to go out. I guess the girls are planning on going someplace tomorrow afternoon, but reckon I’ve spent enough for one weekend. I’m sleepy, and I have to get up to take Ronnie to Sunday School, so guess I’ll leave you now, honey. I’m anxiously waiting to hear where and to what you’ve been assigned. I hope you’re happy there, and that it’s not anything that will keep you overseas after the war. page 4 I mentioned to the girls about your dining with a WAC, etc, and they said they wouldn’t have liked that if they were me and cited an example of a trusting wife who didn’t believe her husband stepped out[,] all of a sudden discovered he did. I’m still not very worried, altho perhaps I should be. I still have the feeling that you won’t stray as long as I behave and you have no reason for ever thinking I do and hope the army will never make you so broadminded that you still can’t tell the difference between right and wrong even though it takes willpower. Goodnight, honey, and all my love to you, always, Mom and Ronnie p.s. it’s forty degrees outdoors or colder and as the girls have the bedroom, I’m sleeping on the porch and boy could I stand to have someone keep me warm (What am I saying?) ...

15 Apr April 15, 1945

Posted at 20:44h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 15 April 45, France Sun. 9:30 P.M., page 1 Dearest Alice and Ronnie: Here I am at this new camp. Arrived here yesterday evening after a very pleasant trip from our camp South of Paris about thirty miles. It was located near a town called Estampes. This one is North East of Paris and right in a good sized city. It’s South West of where Al Evers is about forty miles I think. Don’t know whether I’ll get a chance to go see him or not. I say the trip here was pleasant mostly because it was full of surprises. The first, instead of riding in the boxcars as we had expected we rode in third class passenger cars and that is a real luxury to forty and eight boxcars. Second, we came through Paris and laid over there overnight. That was just like another pass into Paris because we all took off. Even though there were no passes issued. From Paris to here again third class. The trip was all made during daylight and the country is all nice and green now and quite pretty. With only occasional signs of the war that passed thru here so swiftly last fall. <?Nextpage> Wes ...

15 Apr April 15, 1945

Posted at 20:34h in Letters

v-mail from: George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 15 April 45, France, Sunday, 9:30 P.M. page 2. Hello again. This city [Compiegne] has only been damaged around the river and the railroad. The part we are in is quite a well-to-do part of the city. We are fortunate in being put up in private homes taken over by the army. However, a large part of the camp is made up of tents out on an abandoned golf course. The house I am in is quite large, a little old, very dirty but still a house and better than what I have been accustomed to. The trip here has proven to be very disappointing. I was sent here with others to try out with a GI orchestra. As I have definitely made up my mind that I don’t want any part of this GI show business plus the fact that I probably couldn’t play good enough anyway, I didn’t even ask for an audition. Consequently I think I will go back where I came from and probably will have all this waiting to do over again. It sounds very confusing to you I imagine but this is as just that. And I am at loss as to what the army is trying to do with me and many more like me. Daddy. Addendum v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 15 April 45, France. Sunday, 10 P.M. Page 3. Noteworthy: Dad vividly describes the pathetic condition of returning prisoners of war. Hello again. Each day now I expect to get up and hear that the war has finally come to an end. Perhaps just that will happen soon and be the end of some of my problems -- I guess all will work out for the best someday. This last trip through Paris I saw a sight I shall never forget. The railroad stations are crowded from morning to nite. And all nite, too, with the never ending stream of returning war prisoners held in Germany. These people are a pity to behold. They come carrying everything they possess on their backs, in old suitcases and boxes. None of it worth five cents in our estimation but no doubt valuable to them because it’s all they have. And I can easily understand that. Occasionally one of them will meet a father, mother, wife, or perhaps just a friend. There are thousands waiting [on] every train in hopes that one of these refugees will be his or her loved ones. When this happens you can stand there and cry yourself. It’s been nearly five years since most of these men and women were carried off. They are half starved and look worked to death. They have waited a long time to come home. Wes v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 15 April 45, Compiegne France Sunday, 10 P.M. page 4 Noteworthy: More description of returning prisoners. And Hello again, I think probably one of the worst things I have seen are our own returning war prisoners, also the British. The other nite we were put up with a large bunch of them just recaptured by the 9th Army. The British soldier I talked to was taken at Dunkirk almost five years ago now. He was so weak he could hardly stand to shave all skin and bones. He said he had been made to work in the coal mines for the Germans and since January had gotten practically nothing to eat. He looked it too. Five years a prisoner and now he’s going home. Just think of that. He told of many that he knew that would never go home now. It wasn’t nice to hear or see. It would be easy to be very hard on the Germans I think. It’s bedtime my dears. You notice I’m still using my old address since I expect to go back there before you would get a letter to me here. I think it’s just as well to do it this way. So now all my love to you both of you. And I miss you very much, Daddy. ...

16 Apr April 16, 1945

Posted at 14:50h in Letters

Letter from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 16th, 1945 Monday, 4:00 P.M. Hello, honey, Ronnie is still sleeping and I feel lazy, so thought I’d drop you a line. Pretty nice of your wife, don’t you think? I’m so sleepy, must be Spring fever, altho it’s been pretty cold here the past week for that. Temp. has been down around 40 degrees, and very, very windy. Today it’s been rainy, plus windy. Just now the sun’s starting to peep through the clouds. Helen and Norma were here all day yesterday, too, altho we didn’t go do much. I was up at 8:00 o’clock, but they slept until I woke them at 10:30 for breakfast. In the meantime, I had baked an apple pie, made a salad, plus preparing a breakfast of grapefruit, waffles and broiled bacon and coffee. At 11:30, we stopped at 101st and Lafayette to see Norma’s cousin and family. We stayed there until 1:15, then we went home for dinner. I had ordered steak a week ago for the page 2 occasion, so we had broiled porterhouse steak, buttered green beans, mashed potatoes, gravy, orange gelatin salad (with apples, celery, carrots, and radishes in it) with lettuce, homemade (my own) cloverleaf rolls and jelly and apple pie and ice cream and coffee. Doesn’t this sound pretty good to you? Well, it was! This is the first steak I’ve had in ages, as they are few and far between nowadays. This noon Ronnie and I had a vegetarian lunch, consisting of baked beans, buttered corn, gelatin salad and lettuce, bread and butter and milk and pie. After dinner yesterday we were going to a show, but it was 3:00 P.M. and they were leaving from the loop bus depot at 7:00, we decided we didn’t have time for a double feature. Instead we went over to the Rose Bowl, but as there was a 2 1/2 hr. wait for an alley, we just watched for a while and had a glass of beer. Doesn’t that sound exciting? (oh yeah!) At five o’clock I page 3 took them to the I.C. station, and Ronnie still wanted to see a show, so we went to the State to see "Thin man comes [goes] home", Bill [William] Powell and Myrna Loy, and "Eadie Was a Lady," with Ann Miller. Both pretty good. When I at last arrived home Ronnie went to bed and I did the dinner dishes. Mrs. Page came down and helped dry them and later she and Mr. Page and I had some sandwiches, pie and coffee. By that time it was midnight, and I went to bed. I have Ronnie’s crib on the porch now and I sleep on the porch, too, so the bedroom looks much nicer, now, with the crib gone. I called Dr. DeYoung today and asked for an appt for a checkup for Ronnie. Luckily there was a cancellation, so I can see him Tues. Apr. 24. The girl told me if they hadn’t been a cancellation, I’d have had to wait until last part of June. Mrs. Dixon is taking Bobby down for a checkup May 24th and she page 4 called for the appt. two weeks ago. There isn’t anything wrong with Ronnie that I know of, but thought a yearly checkup would be a good thing, anyway. He’s had a couple of colds this winter, but nothing serious, thank goodness. He’s not fat by any means, but guess none of your brother’s or sister’s children are either and doctors always say they worry more about fat children’s health, than the thin children. I think he weighs about 34 lbs and is - inches tall. Forrest’s youngest boy, Jimmy, who is four, is no taller than Ronnie, so guess Ronnie isn’t so small after all. Of course Bobby Dixon is taller, but then he always was big for his age. Jimmy weighs a couple lbs more than Ronnie, but he’s four. Ronnie wears size 6 overalls and shirts, now, and size 8 shoe. I just rec’d a letter from you dated Mar. 8, but I’m sure you meant April 8th, page 5 as it’s written from the camp with the red brick and stone chateau in the center and you mentioned having been in Paris three times. I haven’t received the $50 from Sgt. Sweeney as yet, but I did get the $60 you sent me, which helped pay my $102 first payment of the tax bill. Today also I got an Aug. letter which I had sent you. It’s the fourth letter written in Aug. that’s been returned so far. I can’t figure it out! I’m enclosing it, now. My insurance payment of $8.16 is due now, too and me broke. What a life! Maybe I can pay it next Sat. when I get the rent money. Sure wish I could go to work for a while, at least. I sent you a box of powders and Vick’s salve last week. I hope they catch up with you before long. I also have another box of powders to send on, but thought I’d wait until page 6 I get a new address from you. Guess it’s time for Ronnie to get up now and for us to get to the grocery and also mail this. Well, bye, now and just remember to be good, as Mommy and Ronnie love you - oh so much. All our love, Mom and Ronnie. P.S. Sgt. Sweeney’s wife said a week ago when I called her that she’d write to me, but as yet I haven’t heard from her. 2 P.S. Frances Evans called last week asking me to come for dinner on Sunday, but as these girls were coming in, I couldn’t, so she said she’d call again. I got roped into going to a Fernwood Women’s Club Spring Luncheon tomorrow noon by Mrs. Hayes. Oh, well, it’s a free meal. . ...

16 Apr April 16, 1945

Posted at 20:36h in Letters

v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 16 April 45-France. Monday, 9:30 P.M. Dearest Alice and Ronnie, It’s summer here. I’ve been sitting here in front of an open window enjoying the nice evening while reading some of your old letters. Don’t get any fresh ones so hard up on the old ones now and then. It’s just now getting dark, i.e. too dark to read but we have electricity here and there is a <? inking> or writing lamp rigged up over this table which is a little crude but serves the purpose very nicely. Walked downtown this evening to see a show which I had already seen twice before. Since downtown is about one mile from here you can see I’m pretty hard up for entertainment. The show is that one about the little girl finding the German police dog belonging to the army in an abandoned well and how her nurse maid gave the dog back to the army. And then she went to Washington to try and get it back. I can’t think of the name of the show but it would be a nice one for Ronnie to see. I went on a very interesting tour through Napoleon’s castle this afternoon. The castle is about one half a mile from here. Very large. Started in the 16th century and finished in the 18th. I sat at his desk, in his chair, and was in his bedroom, dining room etc. Didn’t make me feel a damn bit little. For some reason the French think that man was next to God. To me he was just another Hitler. Daddy, Addendum v-mail from: Pvt George Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler 16 April 1945, France. Monday, 9:35 P.M. page 2 Hello again, As I was saying, about Napoleon’s castle, the trip was nice. There were three of us and we had a guide all to ourselves. He charged us 20 francs apiece (Forty cents). [He] Showed us all the old carriages used by all the old kings of France. Also, Napoleon’s 1st, 2nd and 3rd armor used by Europe nations back in the old days. Some very famous paintings, statues, etc. Personally I would much rather have been taking a trip to the Field Museum [Chicago] with you and Ronnie. That’s about all I’ve done today except have some real steak for chow today noon and two fried eggs for breakfast. In some respects this placce must be like heaven. It would be now that I’m pretty sure I’m not going to be here only about a week. [I] Did have a bad nite last nite though. Woke up during the nite with the GIs and have been going ever since. Guess it was the steak I ate, you suppose. [I] Bought you a small gift so now when I can get your and Ronnie’s wrapped will send them on their way. Neither one is much but maybe you will know I think of you once in a while any way. All my love to you both, Daddy ...

17 Apr April 17, 1945

Posted at 14:55h in Letters

V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: PVT George W. Shonkwiler April 17, 1945 Tuesday, 8.55 p.m. Darling, Ronnie’s in bed and I just brought Bobby home and the rest of the evening is mine. Ronnie and Bobby have been playing war. Ronnie points his machine gun at Bobby before he has a chance to die from the last shot. Ronnie says, "Get up, Bobby. I want to shoot you." This goes on and on, finally, Bobby says, "Give me the gun, It’s my turn to shoot you dead." So you see, I’m in the midst of action on the home front,too. This afternoon after their nap they were out and Ronnie comes home wet and muddy up to his knees and a big hole in his snowsuit sleeve. I guess that means a new suit next year. You’d better get home by then to buy it. Ronnie said Bobby pushed him in the mud puddle and Bobby said he didn’t, but finally admitted to me after a while that he did, altho he told his folks he didn’t. Who to believe? Well, see you next page. Love and kisses from Mom and Ronnie. V-mail from: Mrs. G. Shonkwiler to: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler April 17, 1945 Tuesday, 9:10 P.M. [page 2] Hello again, honey, I just heard President Truman give his message to the armed forces. He sounded very sincere and I hope he is for everyone’s sake, and I for one, am willing to give him a chance, and guess everyone knows he has a tough assignment and it requires a lot of courage to face without any bad criticism from the people, before he proves himself. Edith and I attended the Fernwood Women’s Club Luncheon at the Nantucket today. The luncheon consisted of tomato juice, big salad, two pork cutlets, green peas, mashed potatoes, and apple tart with whipped cream and coffee. (Also hot rolls and cornbread with our meal.) To me it was dinner, and I hardly call it lunch, would you? They also had an operatic soprano and pianist for the program. Mrs. Page was home with Ronnie and he slept all the time I was gone. I got a Stars and Stripes today, but no letter. So the French gals think the Yank G.I.s. are babes in love making. Could be? Love, Mom and Ronnie ...

18 Apr April 18, 1945

Posted at 14:47h in Letters

Letterfrom: Mrs. G. Shonkwilerto: PVT George W. ShonkwilerApril 18, 1945Wed. 11:00 P.M.Noteworthy: 65 cent meal at a Chinese restaurant My dear, Here I am again having my evening chat with my husband. I sometimes wonder if you were here with me, if you’d bother to listen to my chatter. I can just hear you saying, "Be quiet, I’m trying to read. And what difference does it make what you did today or what you think, etc" I guess I have the advantage now, because I can chatter on and on and you can’t talk back whether you’re bored or not. I can remember lots of times we’d be driving along in the car and I’d try to keep up a conversation, but you’d sit there neither replying, or even act[ing] interested in what I was saying, and it used to make me so mad sometimes I felt like crying, and sometimes did, because I felt so "unnecessary" or "shut out" from you and your thoughts. I would wonder if you’ll be different when you come back? Time page 2 will tell! Maybe it will and maybe I won’t like the change, - who knows? I read an article the other day, too, that returning servicemen should expect a change in their wives, too, as they may not be the carefree girls they were once, and may show their age with worrying wrinkles, and may have forgotten how to laugh, etc., etc. I know I’ve grown a lot older looking this past year (of course I am a year older!) I meant to wash the dining room walls today, but just couldn’t get up enough ambition and I’m still sore from washing and painting the kitchen. Frances Evers called this afternoon as she was going to see, "30 seconds over Tokyo" I decided to go along. Mrs. Dixon took care of Ronnie and fed him his dinner tonight and I met Frances at the Tea Garden (Chinese) restaurant on the Avenue at 6:00. We had a good meal for 65 cents (no fooling). Consisted of: noodle page 3 soup, 2 lamb chops, french fries, coleslaw, hot rolls and butter, toast, ice cream and coffee. Can’t figure out how they can do it at that price, as it costs me more than that to fix all that at home, as I have to prepare it and wash dishes, too. After dinner we saw the show and it was very good. I imagine you saw it, didn’t you? The stars Spencer Tracy, and Van Johnson. When Van was having his leg cut off, I couldn’t help, but stop and thank God, that you were so lucky not being wounded more seriously than you were. Certainly made me appreciate the things I have to be thankful for. Frances had asked me for dinner last Sunday and Norma and Helen were coming in, so I had to refuse. Now, she asked me for next Sunday and Elsie Reddite (from Beloit) is coming in, so I still can’t go. I guess a week from Sunday I’ll be going. page 4 to her house for dinner. I got V-mails today from you written Apr. 7th (2 of ’em) and 2 - Apr. 10th and that’s fast service, - only 8 days on the way. I was sorry to hear about you[’re] sore leg from playing baseball tsk! tsk! how can I explain the fact that my husband is again a war casualty - this time thru baseball! Hope you get settled soon, so I can start sending you something again. As it is, I’m afraid they’ll get lost, following you again. Bye, now and lots and lots and lots and lots of Love and kisses, from Mom and Ronnie P.S. You will have to charge the kisses for a later payment. Just keep track of the promised number. ...

18 Apr April 18, 1945

Posted at 23:58h in Letters

letter from: Pvt George W. Shonkwiler to: Mrs. Alice Shonkwiler April 18, 1945 Wed. 10 P.M. France Dearest Alice and Ronnie: I didn’t write yesterday because there was absolutely nothing to write about and I guess mainly because I didn’t feel like it, too lazy or something. Anyhow I laid down a little after 8 P.M., fell asleep, woke up about eleven[,] took off my clothes, and went to bed. Those GIs I had really took the pep out of me. With my stomach and all[,] when I get them I really get them bad and this time was no exception. I am completely over it now however, and feel pretty good tonite. In fact so good that I’m writing you a letter instead of one of those v-mail affairs. Acquired a temporary job yesterday that’s right up my line. The Army hires Frenchmen to do a lot of work around, like cleaning latrines, doing part of the KP work, etc. Well there are four taking care of this building I’m in, and a couple three more. My job is keeping them on the job. And that’s not so as easy as page 2 it sounds because those darn frogs (Frenchmen) can think of more ways of getting out of work than I can. However after two days now I have them pretty well in hand and can even speak a word or two of French. Although I think they are learning my English faster. This is merely a temporary job and may end any day as I expect either to be sent back to the 19th depot, or be put on detached service here very soon. Now that I am out of the special service platoon - per my request, I got tired of being shoved around in that outfit, I hoped to be placed in something very soon. Perhaps then I’ll stay in one place long enough for my mail and a few of my packages to catch up with me. When I see all these boys around here getting packages from home with candy, soap, chocolate, and what have you in them and the prices these French pay for that stuff and think of all the packages I have lost along the road somewhere, boy it really gets me. You know that real nice soap you sent me last fall that page 3 you bought at Fields, I could easily get two dollars a bar for that kind of soap. You know what happened to it. Well I left it with all my other stuff back in <? Seur> Lantern Germany when I was injured. Guess I’ll never see any of it again. Had some nice souvenirs there too. The kind you can’t get this far back from the front lines. Went to a show tonite. "The Falcon of Hollywood" wouldn’t have been so bad if we could have heard it. But as usual there was something wrong with the soundtrack and we could hardly make out the conversation. Since that’s all there is to do, unless one is interested in women and I’m not, so [I] usually go about every nite. We have two GI theaters and the shows change every second day so that’s about the <? limit> of the entertainment here. There is a Red Cross where we can buy donuts and coffee and a place where we can buy some kind of French soda pop for 19 cents per bottle. Wine and cognac is very hard to get in this town. Too many GIs. page 4 and too little wine and liquor. However that doesn’t bother me too much. I think I told you that this camp is located in the residential part of the city and we live in large houses taken over from the French. This house I am in is a large stone and brick affair. Three stories high. I live in a room about 14 x 16 on the first floor along with nine other men. All but two are in detached service to this company and so far have found them to be not so bad. We have running water in the building but no bath, no heat but we don’t need any now. We sleep in double deck wooden bunks. Wooden slats for springs, and a straw tick for a mattress. Not bad but of course nothing like home. The chow isn’t bad but still prepared by the army. We get up about 6.45 A.M[,] have breakfast and go to work at 8. Finished at 5 P.M. after about an hour or a little more for lunch. So you see things are not too bad. page 5 Well it’s now after 11 P.M. and the last half hour has been pretty tough from a trying to write standpoint. I’m writing this in my room and most of the boys have come in since I started this and between hearing all of their accomplishments of the evening and all the other stories it’s hard concentrating on letter writing. These GIs here are no different from any other bunch and their stories and actions are in proportion. Time for bed now. How are both of you these days? And I wonder what all you are doing, etc. I certainly would like to be there with you. I have sent you a number of our papers concerning Roosevelt’s death. It certainly came as quite a shock to everyone here. As much as I was against him[,] I think his death will prove a major setback. All my love, Daddy ...

Commendation Letter
01 January, 1946
December 14, 1943
14 December, 1943
February 15, 1944
15 February, 1944
February 17, 1944
17 February, 1944
February 17, 1944
17 February, 1944
February 17, 1944
17 February, 1944
February 18, 1944
18 February, 1944
February 18, 1944
18 February, 1944
February 20, 1944
20 February, 1944
February 21, 1944
21 February, 1944
February 22, 1944
22 February, 1944
February 22, 1944
22 February, 1944
February 23, 1944
23 February, 1944
February 23, 1944
23 February, 1944
February 24, 1944
24 February, 1944
February 24, 1944
24 February, 1944
February 25, 1944
25 February, 1944
February 26, 1944
26 February, 1944
February 27, 1944
27 February, 1944
February 28, 1944
28 February, 1944
February 28, 1944
28 February, 1944
February 29, 1944
29 February, 1944
February 29, 1944
29 February, 1944
March 1, 1944
01 March, 1944
March 2, 1944
02 March, 1944
March 2, 1944
02 March, 1944
March 3, 1944
03 March, 1944
March 3, 1944
03 March, 1944
March 4, 1944
04 March, 1944
March 4, 1944
04 March, 1944
March 5, 1944
05 March, 1944
March 6, 1944
06 March, 1944
March 6, 1944
06 March, 1944
March 7, 1944
07 March, 1944
March 8, 1944
08 March, 1944
March 9, 1944
09 March, 1944
March 9, 1944
09 March, 1944
March 9, 1944
09 March, 1944
March 10, 1944
10 March, 1944
March 11, 1944
11 March, 1944
March 11, 1944
11 March, 1944
March 13, 1944
13 March, 1944
March 13, 1944
13 March, 1944
March 14, 1944
14 March, 1944
March 14, 1944
14 March, 1944
March 15, 1944
15 March, 1944
March 16, 1944
16 March, 1944
March 17, 1944
17 March, 1944
March 18, 1944
18 March, 1944
March 19, 1944
19 March, 1944
March 20, 1944
20 March, 1944
March 21, 1944
21 March, 1944
March 23, 1944
23 March, 1944
March 22, 1944
22 March, 1944
March 24, 1944
24 March, 1944
March 25, 1944
25 March, 1944
March 26, 1944
26 March, 1944
March 28, 1944
28 March, 1944
March 29, 1944
29 March, 1944
March 30, 1944
30 March, 1944
March 31, 1944
31 March, 1944
April 1, 1944
01 April, 1944
April 2, 1944
02 April, 1944
April 3, 1944
03 April, 1944
April 4, 1944
04 April, 1944
April 4, 1944
04 April, 1944
April 4, 1944
04 April, 1944
April 5, 1944
05 April, 1944
April 6, 1944
06 April, 1944
April 7, 1944
07 April, 1944
April 7, 1944
07 April, 1944
April 8, 1944
08 April, 1944
April 9, 1944
09 April, 1944
April 9, 1944
09 April, 1944
April 10, 1944
10 April, 1944
April 10, 1944
10 April, 1944
April 11, 1944
11 April, 1944
April 11, 1944
11 April, 1944
April 12, 1944
12 April, 1944
April 13, 1944
13 April, 1944
April 13, 1944
13 April, 1944
April 15, 1944
15 April, 1944
April 15, 1944
15 April, 1944
April 16, 1944
16 April, 1944
April 17, 1944
17 April, 1944
April 17, 1944
17 April, 1944
May 8, 1944
08 May, 1944
May 9, 1944
09 May, 1944
May 12, 1944
12 May, 1944
May 15, 1944
15 May, 1944
May 16, 1944
16 May, 1944
May 18, 1944
18 May, 1944
May 21, 1944
21 May, 1944
May 22, 1944
22 May, 1944
May 23, 1944
23 May, 1944
May 25, 1944
25 May, 1944
May 28, 1944
28 May, 1944
May 29, 1944
29 May, 1944
May 31, 1944
31 May, 1944
June 2, 1944
02 June, 1944
June 3, 1944
03 June, 1944
June 5, 1944
05 June, 1944
June 6, 1944
06 June, 1944
June 6, 1944
06 June, 1944
June 7, 1944
07 June, 1944
June 7, 1944
07 June, 1944
June 8, 1944
08 June, 1944
June 11, 1944
11 June, 1944
June 12, 1944
12 June, 1944
June 15, 1944
15 June, 1944
June 17, 1944
17 June, 1944
June 19, 1944
19 June, 1944
June 20, 1944
20 June, 1944
June 22, 1944
22 June, 1944
June 24, 1944
24 June, 1944
June 27, 1944
27 June, 1944
July 13, 1944
13 July, 1944
July 14, 1944
14 July, 1944
July 16, 1944
16 July, 1944
August 16, 1944
16 August, 1944
August 17, 1944
17 August, 1944
August 22, 1944
22 August, 1944
August 25, 1944
25 August, 1944
August 31, 1944
31 August, 1944
September 10, 1944
10 September, 1944
September 17, 1944
17 September, 1944
September 25, 1944
25 September, 1944
September 26, 1944
26 September, 1944
September 27, 1944
27 September, 1944
September 30, 1944
30 September, 1944
October 3, 1944
03 October, 1944
October 5, 1944
05 October, 1944
October 5, 1944
05 October, 1944
October 6, 1944
06 October, 1944
October 8, 1944
08 October, 1944
October 9, 1944
09 October, 1944
October 10, 1944
10 October, 1944
October 12, 1944
12 October, 1944
October 13, 1944
13 October, 1944
October 14, 1944
14 October, 1944
October 15, 1944
15 October, 1944
October 16, 1944
16 October, 1944
October 17, 1944
17 October, 1944
October 19, 1944
19 October, 1944
October 21, 1944
21 October, 1944
October 21, 1944
21 October, 1944
October 22, 1944
22 October, 1944
October 23, 1944
23 October, 1944
October 23, 1944
23 October, 1944
October 24, 1944
24 October, 1944
October 26, 1944
26 October, 1944
October 27, 1944
27 October, 1944
October 27, 1944
27 October, 1944
October 27, 1944
27 October, 1944
October 29, 1944
29 October, 1944
October 30, 1944
30 October, 1944
October 31, 1944
31 October, 1944
November 1, 1944
01 November, 1944
November 6, 1944
06 November, 1944
November 8, 1944
08 November, 1944
November 8, 1944
08 November, 1944
November 12, 1944
31 July, 2025
November 13, 1944
13 November, 1944
November 15, 1944
15 November, 1944
November 15, 1944
15 November, 1944
November 17, 1944
17 November, 1944
November 24, 1944
24 November, 1944
November 24, 1944
24 November, 1944
November 27, 1944
27 November, 1944
November 28, 1944
28 November, 1944
November 29, 1944
29 November, 1944
December 1, 1944
01 December, 1944
December 1, 1944
01 December, 1944
December 3, 1944
03 December, 1944
December 4, 1944
04 December, 1944
December 6, 1944
06 December, 1944
December 8, 1944
08 December, 1944
December 9, 1944
09 December, 1944
December 13, 1944
13 December, 1944
December 17, 1944
17 December, 1944
December 28, 1944
28 December, 1944
December 31, 1944
31 December, 1944
January 3, 1945
03 January, 1945
January 4, 1945
04 January, 1945
January 17, 1945
17 January, 1945
January 17, 1945
17 January, 1945
January 19, 1945
19 January, 1945
January 21, 1945
21 January, 1945
January 22, 1945
22 January, 1945
January 24, 1945
24 January, 1945
January 24, 1945
24 January, 1945
January 25, 1945
25 January, 1945
January 26, 1945
26 January, 1945
January 27, 1945
27 January, 1945
January 28, 1945
28 January, 1945
January 28, 1945
28 January, 1945
January 29, 1945
29 January, 1945
January 30, 1945
30 January, 1945
January 30, 1945
30 January, 1945
February 1, 1945
01 February, 1945
February 1, 1945
01 February, 1945
February 2, 1945
02 February, 1945
February 2, 1945
02 February, 1945
February 3, 1945
03 February, 1945
February 3, 1945
03 February, 1945
February 4, 1945
04 February, 1945
February 6, 1945
06 February, 1945
February 6, 1945
06 February, 1945
February 6, 1945
06 February, 1945
February 7, 1945
07 February, 1945
February 7, 1945
07 February, 1945
February 8, 1945
08 February, 1945
February 8, 1945
08 February, 1945
February 9, 1945
09 February, 1945
February 10, 1945
10 February, 1945
February 11, 1945
11 February, 1945
February 12, 1945
12 February, 1945
February 12, 1945
12 February, 1945
February 13, 1945
13 February, 1945
February 15, 1945
15 February, 1945
February 15, 1945
15 February, 1945
February 16, 1945
16 February, 1945
February 17, 1945
17 February, 1945
February 18, 1945
18 February, 1945
February 18, 1945
18 February, 1945
February 19, 1945
19 February, 1945
February 20, 1945
20 February, 1945
February 20, 1945
20 February, 1945
February 21, 1945
21 February, 1945
February 22, 1945
22 February, 1945
February 22, 1945
22 February, 1945
February 25, 1945
25 February, 1945
February 25, 1945
25 February, 1945
February 27, 1945
27 February, 1945
February 27, 1945
27 February, 1945
February 27, 1945
27 February, 1945
February 28, 1945
28 February, 1945
March 1, 1945
01 March, 1945
March 4, 1945
04 March, 1945
March 4, 1945
04 March, 1945
March 4, 1945
04 March, 1945
March 5, 1945
05 March, 1945
March 5, 1945
05 March, 1945
March 6, 1945
06 March, 1945
March 8, 1945
08 March, 1945
March 10, 1945
10 March, 1945
March 11, 1945
11 March, 1945
March 11, 1945
11 March, 1945
March 12, 1945
12 March, 1945
March 13, 1945
13 March, 1945
March 16, 1945
16 March, 1945
March 16, 1945
16 March, 1945
March 17, 1945
17 March, 1945
March 18, 1945
18 March, 1945
March 19, 1945
19 March, 1945
March 19, 1945
19 March, 1945
March 21, 1945
21 March, 1945
March 22, 1945
22 March, 1945
March 24, 1945
24 March, 1945
March 24, 1945
24 March, 1945
March 26, 1945
26 March, 1945
March 27, 1945
27 March, 1945
March 27, 1945
27 March, 1945
March 28, 1945
28 March, 1945
March 28, 1945
28 March, 1945
March 28, 1945
28 March, 1945
March 29, 1945
29 March, 1945
March 29, 1945
29 March, 1945
March 31, 1945
31 March, 1945
March 31, 1945
31 March, 1945
April 1, 1945
01 April, 1945
April 1, 1945
01 April, 1945
April 2, 1945
02 April, 1945
April 2, 1945
02 April, 1945
April 2, 1945
02 April, 1945
April 2, 1945
02 April, 1945
April 4, 1945
04 April, 1945
April 5, 1945
05 April, 1945
April 5, 1945
05 April, 1945
April 6, 1945
06 April, 1945
April 6, 1945
06 April, 1945
April 7, 1945
07 April, 1945
April 7, 1945
07 April, 1945
April 8, 1945
08 April, 1945
April 9, 1945
09 April, 1945
April 10, 1945
10 April, 1945
April 10, 1945
10 April, 1945
April 10, 1945
10 April, 1945
April 11, 1945
11 April, 1945
April 12, 1945
12 April, 1945
April 12, 1945
12 April, 1945
April 12, 1945
12 April, 1945
April 14, 1945
14 April, 1945
April 15, 1945
15 April, 1945
April 15, 1945
15 April, 1945
April 16, 1945
16 April, 1945
April 16, 1945
16 April, 1945
April 17, 1945
17 April, 1945
April 18, 1945
18 April, 1945
April 18, 1945
18 April, 1945

01 Jan Commendation Letter

14 Dec December 14, 1943

15 Feb February 15, 1944

17 Feb February 17, 1944

17 Feb February 17, 1944

17 Feb February 17, 1944

18 Feb February 18, 1944

18 Feb February 18, 1944

20 Feb February 20, 1944

21 Feb February 21, 1944

22 Feb February 22, 1944

22 Feb February 22, 1944

23 Feb February 23, 1944

23 Feb February 23, 1944

24 Feb February 24, 1944

24 Feb February 24, 1944

25 Feb February 25, 1944

26 Feb February 26, 1944

27 Feb February 27, 1944

28 Feb February 28, 1944

28 Feb February 28, 1944

29 Feb February 29, 1944

29 Feb February 29, 1944

01 Mar March 1, 1944

02 Mar March 2, 1944

02 Mar March 2, 1944

03 Mar March 3, 1944

03 Mar March 3, 1944

04 Mar March 4, 1944

04 Mar March 4, 1944

05 Mar March 5, 1944

06 Mar March 6, 1944

06 Mar March 6, 1944

07 Mar March 7, 1944

08 Mar March 8, 1944

09 Mar March 9, 1944

09 Mar March 9, 1944

09 Mar March 9, 1944

10 Mar March 10, 1944

11 Mar March 11, 1944

11 Mar March 11, 1944

13 Mar March 13, 1944

13 Mar March 13, 1944

14 Mar March 14, 1944

14 Mar March 14, 1944

15 Mar March 15, 1944

16 Mar March 16, 1944

17 Mar March 17, 1944

18 Mar March 18, 1944

19 Mar March 19, 1944

20 Mar March 20, 1944

21 Mar March 21, 1944

23 Mar March 23, 1944

22 Mar March 22, 1944

24 Mar March 24, 1944

25 Mar March 25, 1944

26 Mar March 26, 1944

28 Mar March 28, 1944

29 Mar March 29, 1944

30 Mar March 30, 1944

31 Mar March 31, 1944

01 Apr April 1, 1944

02 Apr April 2, 1944

03 Apr April 3, 1944

04 Apr April 4, 1944

04 Apr April 4, 1944

04 Apr April 4, 1944

05 Apr April 5, 1944

06 Apr April 6, 1944

07 Apr April 7, 1944

07 Apr April 7, 1944

08 Apr April 8, 1944

09 Apr April 9, 1944

09 Apr April 9, 1944

10 Apr April 10, 1944

10 Apr April 10, 1944

11 Apr April 11, 1944

11 Apr April 11, 1944

12 Apr April 12, 1944

13 Apr April 13, 1944