MS 984 - Byron Armbruster World War II Papers Transcripts (Eloise Higgins, September - October 1944)

September 18, 1944

England
18 Sept. '44

Dearest -

I'd just about as leave take a beating as to sit down and try and write a letter, but I guess I just have to as you are in my thoughts every minute of the day. It shall be the happiest day of my life when I return to the States, to stay.

I was so surprised to hear that Mother is helping in the factory. I'm afraid though that she perhaps is working to hard.

To-day I received a nice long letter from Mrs. Brinkman. Tell her that I've missed out on those parties, that she mentioned and from what I've heard, I guess I'm better off.

I've sent mother some snaps. I hope she receives them soon. One of them is for you. I hope you like it.

Well precious, I'll now call it a day (8:00 PM) and go downstairs to our day room and listen to the radio.

With All My Love,
Be - Be

September 20, 1944

20 Sept. '44

Dearest -

I received your letter to-day stating that you received the pictures. Did Jo like hers?

I'll bet you have been rather worried the last few days, haven't you? I'm perfectly safe for the time being.

How is it at the lake by now? Its getting cool, isn't it? I hear Eleanor and Stan are moving, where are they moving to?

The Hughes are on vacation and will return Friday. I expect to see them over the week end. Did you receive the pictures that I sent you, or let me think, I guess I sent them to Mother, of the Hughes? Did they look like you had them pictured?

Well dear, its my bedtime, so shall sign off with fond memories of you.

With All My Love,
Cpl. Be - Be.

October 9, 1944

England
9 Oct. '44

Dearest -

This has been another eventful week. I have just returned from another glider ride, and instead of going to work, which would only be about a half hour, I shall drop you a few lines.

Sgt. Hodel, of Wabash, Indiana and myself had a short holiday, so we traveled to Stratford-On-Avon and stayed at the Red Cross Club. We slept between sheets, the first for months. The first thing Sunday morning we attended church in which Shakespeare, his wife, daughter and son-in law are laid to rest. We then had tea, picked up two bicycles at the Red Cross and started to do a little sight seeing. We visited Shakespeare's home, the theater where his plays are presented and Ann Hathoway's cottage. The antiques were lovely. After sight seeing all afternoon and taking pictures, which reminds me if you can secure some 616 films, please send me some, we decided to have lunch at the Red Cross and start back. As I entered the door I thought for a moment I saw Clarence and who do you think it was? Lawrence Kurtz. Were we both surprised? After a short chat and eating together we started home. We had to transfer enroute and we boarded the wrong train and wound up in London. We caught the first train out and I arrived at camp just a minute before my pass expired. Well, that's what makes the world tick.

A few days ago I sent you a little gift. I hope you like it. It was made by a wounded British soldier that is in a plaster cast and only has the freedom of his arms. Nearly everyone in our company has bought one or two. You can call it a part of your Christmas present as it is made of a Christmas colors.

Enclosed is a snap we had made while in Stratford.

Well dear I hope this finds you well and happy.

Sending you All My Love,
Be - Be

October 18, 1944

England
18 Oct. '44

Dearest -

I have letters lying before me from Mother Brinkman, Emma, mother, Marcille, Frances Mary, Fredia, yourself and a couple from buddies stationed elsewhere in the U.K. I am only writing to you this evening, so I shall also answer some of there questions. I wrote Marcille and Bert last nite.

Please tell Fredia who Honigman is. Remember? They are the ones from Cleveland. Also tell mother that Steve is my age, and from Warren. Tell mother I've never received those films but could certainly use some.

Say dearest, I've sent you some material, I hope you like it. If possible, I would like for you to use it for the wedding gown. I think it would be lovely. Let me know what you think of the idea. Of course you might have to buy the long train. I love a trailing gown or rather train. Have mother help you with it. Maybe Ida and Tillie also. Make it as soon as you have time, as one never knows. It might be years (I pray not) and it might be weeks. At any rate, we want to be all set, if and when.

Nore writes the swellest, long, newsy letters. Oh, I don't know what I'd do if it wasn't for news from the home front by Nora, Emma, my sisters and dear mother.

I do hope this ends soon. I have indeed been very fortunate.

Please give my best regards to your mother, dad and grandma.

With Love,
Your Be - Be.