"... be good, be safe, remember I love you." -Sgt Charlie B. Dickey
Johnny,
I'm glad to hear you are doing well. Everything at home is the same as you left it. I told Bernie what you said. I'm sorry to say he didn't take it well, but I suspect he'll get over it soon enough. Seeing David and being with him is amazing and I'm happy you two are together, even when you're so far away from the rest of us.
Yesterday, Mrs. Greylock and I went out for a pleasant lunch. She asked after you, and it made me extremely happy to say you were getting along well. She also seemed happy to hear it. Afterwards, we talked for a while, about things I'm sure would bore you. When I mentioned it to Bernie later, he rolled his eyes and muttered something under his breath. There are times lately when I think that brother of yours is not turning out quite like you, dear. I believe not having you around is affecting him in ways he hadn't thought it would. Perhaps you should write him soon. Heaven knows what he'll do next. Today, he came home with a bloody nose and split lip. He wouldn't tell me why he got into a fight, but maybe if you ask he'll tell you. If you're to be gone for a year, I think you should start writing soon, as he is already getting himself in trouble.
I won't lie to you, Johnny, I'm worried. About you and David and all those other boys over there. The things they show on the evening news aren't exactly encouraging. Please, promise me you'll be careful. I'd like to see you come home in a year, the fit young man I sent off. I'm afraid to think too far into the future, but it can't be helped at times. There are so many bad things happening these days, and I know you don't have any choice in the matter but to serve in this war, but it worries me to no end. I don't know what Bernie and I will do if you don't come home.
Promise me you'll come home?
Love,
Mom