It was a war we shouldn't have been in - which everybody, military and nomilitary, said the same thing. We didn't have any reason for being there. But the fact was we were there, and we did the best we could. -Pinkie Houser, US Army
Johnny,
If you'd like, I could send you some socks in my next package. Have you gotten the last one yet?
Uncle Jacob arrived today. He's upstairs settling in before dinner. He mentioned that he wrote you and is expecting a reply. I hope you've sent it here, if you've written back yet. He's also brought some books with him that he's going to send to you.
I hope nobody got hurt in the mortar fire and you all were able to get to the bunkers in time. It's a good thing you and the other man were able to keep each other awake. Who knows what could have happened if you had fallen asleep.
Bernie mentioned that you worked with a man named Bruce. I assume it's the same one. It's good to have a man like that with you. In such high spirits despite the situation. You would do well to follow his lead.
I'm sorry to hear about the man from the other unit. Seems like their luck is down, losing eight men in a few days time. I hope you treat them well, seeing as they are guests to your unit. It's good to hear that you feel like brothers, and have that closeness. I suppose over there that it is a necessity, or like you said "if not, things would be harder." Perhaps the Army is good for some things, if they teach you values like that.
I have to tend to dinner.
Love,
Mom