We all sleep on top deck and I had a good nights rest. Found me a cot and set it up. I have a bad summer cold and can’t get rid of it. Not much to do but read and lay around. Played a little cards and went to bed.
Your Son, ‘Chick’
August 9, 1944 – Wednesday
August 8, 1944 – Tuesday
We loaded onto trucks this morning and went down to load up. We finally got aboard at 12:00. We are on LST. 265, an American ship, and it’s really crowded. You can hardly find a place to sit down, let alone sleep. We played a little cards, but the game was soon broken up as we had to turn in our money to draw new money.
August 7, 1944 – Monday
We packed all of the equipment that was left behind. Rolled up our sleeping bags, loaded them on to the trucks. We are to leave tomorrow at 4:30. Had a show in the area. Went to bed.
Letter Home – August 6, 1944
Dear Mother & Dad
I have about four letters here before me to answer. They are dated July 14, 24, 26, 30th. July 14, yes, I saw saint peter’s. I was only in the hospital two days, so I was able to be an on the drive into Rome. They entered from so many points that I don’t think they know who was first. Of course we say we were and the next outfit would say they were. After Rome fell we were out writing around and I saw John Murry then. He is with the French so that’s the reason I never see him. The last question all I can say is yes. I was to visit Rome again yesterday too. July 24, so you think the war will be over Labor Day. Sorry mom but I’m afraid you’re going to be wrong. There wasn’t much in the other letters that I had hadn’t already answered. The time is growing short & I’m going to be pretty busy for a while. Please don’t worry & I’ll write when I get time. I love you both very much.
Your Son,
“Chick”
August 6, 1944 – Sunday
Went to Mass at 10:00. Went to Confession and Communion as I probably won’t be able to go for some time. Zirkel, Council and I ate early chow and took off for Naples. We went to a show, then to the prize fights, then to another show. Caught a ride and came back to camp.
August 5, 1944 – Saturday
We had our Division Review this morning. Boy, it was sure hot. There were three American Generals there and one Vice Admiral. Of course, they all we were going to put the finishing touches on the “Boche” After the Parade I went into Naples to see Paul as it will be tha last time before the landing. We drank a bottle of Champagne and then went to a show. It was late when I got home so I went to bed.
August 4, 1944 – Friday
The whole company had a 20 mile hike today. It was really hot and everyone about passed out. Went over to get some eggs and potatoes. Came back and watched the show in our area.
August 3, 1944 – Thursday
Wrote a few letters. Had a 8 mile hike. We also had a Battalion parade for some men that were to be decorated. Went to the show tonight.
August 2, 1944 – Wednesday
Wrote a few letters. Not much else to do. Played cards tonight.
August 1, 1944 – Tuesday
We loaded some more trucks to leave today. Went to a show at the 30th Infantry area.
