April 30, 1945
Page 1
April 30, 1945
Dear Mother, Dad, and Grandpa,
I know you have probably been wondering why you have hear so little from me lately. No doubt you have been reading about the action over here. Things have been happening at a fast and furious pace for us all, leaving little time for writing, etc.[1] For a while we went so fast we thought we would beat the Russians to Berlin![2] That is just a slight exaggeration, of course, but we have been going through Italy like a dose of castor oil.
All these peace rumors floating about have everyone pretty excited. I certainly hope something comes out of it all.
Wish I could tell you what I have seen lately, but that must come later.
Please send some food whenever you care to do so.
[1] The 10th Mountain Division had been continuously advancing, pushing the Germans back, since launching an offensive on April 14, 1945. German troops in Italy would surrender on May 2nd. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/10th_Mountain_Division#Italy
[2] Simultaneously to the advance in Italy, the Soviet Army launched their Berlin Stategic Offensive Operation to seize Berlin, beginning on April 16th and ending with the surrender of the German garrison, also on May 2nd. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Berlin The war in Europe would end shortly thereafter on V-E Day, variously recognized as May 7th, 8th, or 9th. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victory_in_Europe_Day
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April 30, 1945
Your letter of April 21 came yesterday, Mother.
So Bob is in the Marianas! I thought he would probably be sent somewhere in that vicinity. What does he write about?
I was thinking of Jerry Kantor when I heard of the Rhine crossing. Sort of surprised that he would be in it.
Yes, Faye is doing a smart thing. How is Harry Jr. getting along now?
Wish I could see the tulips in the garden. They are always so beautiful.
I was just reading the review in a “Life” you sent of “The Enchanted Cottage.” It sounds like a very good picture. Also in another issue is a picture story by Margaret Bourke-White. She accidently took my picture several weeks ago. I was walking down a road and came upon the scene just as she snapped the shutter. She was photographing some officers.
Love to all of you. Write everything. Lovingly, Jerome, Jr.
P.S. Send some food at any time.
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