The Second World War Experience Centre

History: Key Aspects
Love Letters

Transcripts, etc.

Page One: Airgraph from Merrill Lundgren to his wife

My Darling Wife:
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY SWEETHEART, although I fail to see how that can possibly be when we are three thousand miles apart. One year ago today I was the happiest GI in Uncle Sam's Army but today I am probably the unhappiest unless some other unfortunate soldier is celebrating the completion of one year of wedded bliss. The only consolation of people in our circumstances is the brightness of the future and not the miserableness of the past. So I will try to conform with this sagacious remark and cease to bemoan our past.
All during this week my thoughts have been of our very important interlude in that gay metropolis Ruston, Louisiana. Remember how we used to complain that there was nothing to do, (incidentally, a silly complaint for newlyweds) now I would gladly settle for one of the Olympian's gagging meals, complete with the black eyed peas and jelly cherry pie. By the way, Captain Lane got a letter from a party in Ruston and he was told that the immense USO sponsored by the town is going to disband due to the lack of military personnel. Now I know that is a serious blow for you honey, but grit your teeth and bear up under it. I know upon hearing this calamitous news you will instantly think of those happy hours we spent there slowly going berserk attempting to play ping-pong on those lively tables. I laughingly remember when I used to hit the ball in the vicinity of the men's comfort station and you would blushingly request some kind GI, who happened to be waiting in line for comfort, to return the elusive pellet. I may have altered the story somewhat but the gist of the story is accurate. If I recall correctly, if a person would walk into that relief room without looking forward he would hit his head on the opposite wall, but then a small washroom has its merits, privacy you know. How did I get started on this? Once again Happy Anniversary honey, you made me the happiest man alive one year ago today and I have never regretted our action. I love you, Merrill.

Page One: A letter from Merrill Lundgren to his wife

Page Two: A card from Barney to his mother

No wonder I wish you such joy and such cheer,
You're so sweet and thoughtful, your ways are so dear!
You're faithful and tender, you're fine and you're true,
And that's why I love you, the way that I do!
Barney.