A Faithful Soldier Writes Home

An old heavy suitcase that belonged to the widow of a World War II soldier had been moved from place to place over many years. The contents remained unknown other than an explanation to her daughter that it contained “your Daddy’s letters.” After her death the suitcase revealed a family treasure and a legacy. The letters tell the story of a soldier’s experience in Europe with the 83rd Division, known as The Thunderbolt, and portray a beautiful tale of love and devotion. They describe the heroic actions that earned a Bronze Star for Valor and a Purple Heart. They illustrate the limitations of communication in the 1940s and describe the contrasts of going from a clean home to fox holes and destroyed buildings; from clean sheets on a soft, warm bed to dirty blankets on a cold floor. The old suitcase also contained letters from and about the widow’s young brother who was killed when his B-24 Liberator was downed over Belgium the night before the D-Day invasion. This book shares these letters and also accompanying pictures and documents in appendices such as General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s D-Day speech, Bronze Star Medal citations and an award-winning essay What I Am Fighting For. These letters tell a love story and chronicle the day-to-day life of a WWII soldier who was faithful to his country, his faith and his beloved wife. Enjoy and be inspired.