MS 984 - Byron Armbruster World War II Papers Transcripts (To Mr. & Mrs. Higgins)

December 1942?

Greetings
There's a friendly
feeling in the
air
There's joy and
goodwill
everywhere
it's Christmas!

We are mailing our greeting early
Byron

Early 1943?

[Early 1943?]
Fort Bragg, N.C.
Mon. Eve.

Dear Mrs. Higgins -

I'm very busy to nite, but I just must drop you a line to let you know that I sure think the poems are swell. A friend of mine insists that I give them to him, but I wouldn't think of parting with them. If you have any extra's and care to send him one, he will certainly appreciate it. They were sure swell.

I received a five pound box of candy from Eleanor and Stan this morning. I've been getting so many cards and packages that I can't find time to write everyone a "thank you". I've received around twenty cards up to now. The candy Eleanore and Stan sent was tops.

Eloise's box arrived this afternoon at work and when the time came to go to my barracks, it was all gone. Every one said it was the best homemade candy they had ever eaten, including several Lieutenants. Thanks a lot Eloise.

I'm glad you and Mrs. Frease liked the pins. It isn't much, only a remembrance.

Again thanks for everything.

Love,
Byron

P.S. I've lost Eleanor's address, please send it at once.

April 11, 1943

Fort Bragg, N.C.
April 11/43

Dear Folks -

I was indeed glad to hear from you. Letters are always welcome and since my people now have another one to write to, the letters are beginning to become scarcer, and now it's the same with you people, since Stan has left.

I have heard the legend of the dog-wood, my favorite early flowering shub, of which I set our a half a dozen at home a few years ago, but I think are still to young to bloom. However there is a dispute as to which wood was used to make the cross. Some say it was of aspin. Can you recognize an aspin tree? I think that is spelled right. It has a light smooth bark and the leaves are small and almost round. (Ask Mr. Brillhart to show you one, sometime) They are never quite, very restless. It poetry things are oftentimes referred to, as being as restless as an aspin leaf. So much for botany.

I intended to send several Easter cards but I'm unable to buy them on the post and I don't think I'll get to town, so please let me wish you both a Very Happy Easter, thru this letter.

A friend of mine was in Southern Pines and brought me back some of this stationary. How do you like it.

I thank you very much for the pamphlets, but Garnet E had already sent them to me.

I'm curious to know just where Stan will be stationed. Kenny thinks he also will be moved again.

I'm happy for Marcille as I think my future brother-in-law is very nice. She even suggested a triple wedding, after the war. What do you think of that? That would be something. Don't say anything at home though. I think Kenny is to young. Altho one never knows.

By the way, have you decided on a name yet for the new arrival?

I'm scribbling this on my knee so I hope you will be able to read it.

With Love and Best of Wishes
Byron

July 31, 1943

Fayetteville, N.C.
July 31/43

Dear Folks -

We certainly had a grand but short visit. I'm writing this at the U.S.O. with a very scratchy pen. I hope you can read it. I just left the folks about an hour ago. I hope they have a pleasant trip. It was so good to see them all, only I regret that some of you could not come along with Eloise.

We had our Division revue yesterday and it should be an unforgettable event in the memory of Eloise and my folks. They can tell you about it.

Thanks a million for the poem, candy and dates.

With best of wishes
Byron

P.S. Was debating as to weather or not I should mail this, as it is such terrible writing. So please excuse pen. I haven't a pencil.

February 25, 1944

25 Feb. '44
England

Dear Mother Higgins -

I'm so tired to-nite but feel that I must let you know how much I enjoyed the poem. Thanks a million. The Hughes' also thought it was swell.

I've received the box of dates, nuts, gum and other articles. Who really sent them? I think Eloise said that her dad sent the dates, so please thank him for me. I shall drop him a line some of these times. I suppose he and my dad feel that they have been neglected. However I think of them both, often. I know they understand.

We have been on a field problem and just came back this evening. I thought I'd freeze last nite. Just one of those things, to be expected.

I received a very nice letter from Stan the other day. I'll certainly be awaiting the day when I can again see he and Eleanor.

Well mother, keep things rolling around good old Napoleon until I get back and then we will all go to Lakeside for a rest cure. Ha Ha

With Love,
Byron