Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 104

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene ORE

12/28/43
Letter No. 104
Rec'd 158

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and I hope you all got a surprise when you opened your presents. Before you receive this letter I will have received your letter and I will find out.
Well I had a very Merry Christmas thanks to Tiny. I went up to Salem about 3 o'clock Fri. When I got there I called up Tiny and she came down to get me in her pop's car. Boy she's a good driver. We went to the house and I met her folks. They are very nice people. They have a beautiful home too. Her mother made my some eats for us which were very good. By gosh I had to watch my manners pretty close too. Which fork to use etc. But I made out OK. At night Tiny took me in the car to one of the hight hills & showed me Salem all lit up. After driving around town we went to the Catholic Church but found out they didn't have any midnight mass. We sent home and her mother fixed the davan (couch folded into a bed). and Tiny made a fire in the fireplace. Wasn't that nice. Her pop woke me up in the morning. He even offered me his electric razor. We ate breakfast & went to church and in the afternoon time showed me the town of Salem. (It's a good thing her pop had plenty of gas in the car.) You know Salem is the capitol of Oregon and they have a beautiful capitol building. As soon as I get some postcards I'll send them along.
For supper her mother made a turkey with filling. It was really swell. It was a swell second ma but I can still take those chickens & I can taste them and especially that filling. Don't forget to tell me about the meal you had.
I had a swell time Sat. night (25). In fact I think it's about the best time I had since I'm in the army. Tiny bought tickets to a formal dance and she also bought a black net formal. And boy did she look like a queen. Boy she looked sweet. And the dance was really swell.
Sunday morning we went to church again and in the afternoon we took a little ride and then we ate and I had to catch the 6 o'clock bus back to Eugene. It certainly was swell.
Tiny showed me her room and she has 13 certificates for National Piano Playing Tournaments and her mother said there are a few more around some place. She (Tiny) is one of six contestants in the whole U.S. that has held certificates for 6 years straight. Some stuff huh. She doesn't think anything of it though. It's just a pastime to her.
I received a package from the secretary over at John Thatcher's. She sent me cake, candy, nuts, handkerchiefs. That was pretty nice of her don't you think so.
I also got a box of Fanny Farmer candy from Aunt Margaret. Also a Christmas Card calendar. It was really nice.
I received the money order the day before Christmas. Thank Grandma & Dad for me Ma.
I saved your present till dusk (I mean yours Bob's & Ann's). It was really swell. The shirts fit me perfect and the ties are swell and wear well. The underwear fits me OK. Just that I had to move the button back on the shorts a bit but they're swell. Handkerchiefs, socks, candy, razor blades, shaving cream all come in handy. I guessed right when I guessed what was in the box that Grandma sent. I knew they were cherries.
The president of the University passed away last week and the whole university was shocked because he was so young, only 43. His name is Dr. Erb. He was from in Brooklyn.
This letter I meant to get off sooner but I had so much to say it took me a couple of days to write it. I know there is more to say but I can't think of them right now and if I do think of them I won't be able to get the letter off so I'll put it in the next letter if I remember some swell items. The weather is still mild. We still wear our flight jackets. I'll close now and will write soon again.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 103

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene ORE

12/19/43
Letter No. 103
Rec'd ---

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It is Sunday afternoon and Christmas is drawing close. For the Christmas holidays we will get Fri., Sat. & Sun. off. Tiny went home, to Salem, Thurs. Dec. 16 and has off until the 28. Her parents invited me up to their home for the holidays. They have a very large house in Salem. And it's only 70 miles to Salem from Eugene so that's where I will spend the holidays. Don't you think that's nice of them ma? Tiny's brother is a 1st lieutenant and he is going overseas on a special mission so he won't be home for Christmas so I guess it will serve more than one purpose. It will make me feel better eating with a family and it will make them feel better knowing we are all fighting for the same cause on this Christmas. Say ma, why don't you invite one of the service men up for Christmas. Wouldn't that be a good idea.
Tiny's father is a civil engineer so I guess I should get along with him alright. I hope I can use correct english at all times. I'll let you know how I make out?
I hope you got a Christmas tree ma, and I want you to tell me about how you fixed it up and what you all do Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. OK?
I received your Christmas package and it was coming apart a bit. The next time you send me something I think you better wrap it a little more secure because it travels a long way. I took the package out of the box because the box was breaking. I put my watch on and it keeps perfect time. I think I can guess what the rest are and I want to thank you all a million times. I see Grandma got a present in too. And if I know Grandma, I think I know what it is. She's so sweet. I hope Grandma is alright now. Let me know real soon. OK?
I hope my package got there alright. Let me know as soon as you receive it. I send sister a birthday card and present. I was just thinking tho, that maybe she wouldn't receive it in time for her birthday. I should have sent it sooner. But if it doesn't get there in time you tell her that I am sorry but it's on its way. OK.
I got my marks. I got a B in Math, B in Physics, B in Chem., D in Eng., C+ in Speech, D in Hist., D+ in Geography, A in P.E., C in the Military. If you notice Math, Chem, & Physics count the most. It's above average.
I'll close now hoping you are all in the best of health and that you all have a MERRY CHRISTMAS and I hope you all like the presents. I know I will like mine & so until then I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. Don't forget to give Grandma a big kiss for me on Christmas, ma.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 102

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene ORE

12/13/43
Letter No. 102
Rec'd 152, 153, 154, 155

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Here it is Monday the 13th of Dec. and we start our second term. It certainly was hard getting up this morning. We got new rooms assigned to us and I got a pretty good one again.
During the week I wrote Christmas cards to just about everybody I could think of. I hope I didn't miss anybody. I caught up on a few letters also.
I didn't do too much during the week. I was in practically every night by 10:30 as Tiny has to be in the sorority house by 10:30. Those are campus rules for the civilian students. One of the fellows and myself took a little trip out to the coast. It's only 60 [sic] to the pacific ocean so we thought we might as well see it. We hitch hiked to a small town on the coast named Florence. The town is about a block long. There was a coast guard station there so we went in & they showed us around and we went up into the tower and looked off into the ocean. It's a bit rough compared to the Atlantic. I threw a penny into the ocean for all of you so I guess you can make a wish. I also picked up some post cards which you can put in your scrapbook.
The next interesting thing that happened was--I was invited to a Christmas party Friday night. Tiny and her 3 roommates and the house mother and myself were the ones present. They had a little Christmas tree and all presents under it. And they all bought me something. I got two cartons of cigarettes, tobacco, aftershave lotion, and aftershave powder. I certainly was surprised. Tiny warned me ahead of time and I picked up a little gift at the co-op store. Tiny gave me her picture and I gave her a pair of rosary beads. We had cake & cokes. We had a swell time. Don't you think that was awful nice of them?
We got a new patch to put on our arm. Up until now they didn't have any insignia for the A.S.T.P. but they finally got one and it certainly is nice. It is blue and yellow and it has the cup of knowledge on it with a sword running through it. So soon as I get a hold of a couple more I'll send them home.
This term our subjects are Analytic Geometry, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, English, Mil. P.E. It's going to be a little tougher this term!
I received a money order and a Christmas card from Mr. Egerly. It was for $3.50. Who should I write to to thank. I don't believe he had his address on the envelope? It is I just looked.
I sent the package to you for Aunt Anna. It's bath salts and perfume. So will you please wrap it and give it to her? O.K.
I received my first Christmas Card from Grandma and Aunt Anna. I will thank Grandma & A.A. when I write.
Ma did you copy Joe D'Angelo's address down right? Being he is overseas I think there should be an A.P.O. No. Send it to me again O.K.?
Thank Boby for her letter. It certainly is good to hear from her.
I am glad you heard from Frank. I was getting worried. It's too bad everybody has colds. I got a touch of one myself but it doesn't amount even to talk about it. I hope you all get rid of them soon.
Oregon State College sent for the beaver R.R. express. It wasn't exciting as everybody thought it would turn out.
I do hope you get a tree this year ma. It wouldn't be Christmas ma without a tree. Would it?
I'll close now hoping everybody is in better health when you get this letter & I hope everybody is very happy.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. Letter No. are OK.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 101

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene ORE

12/6/43
Letter No. 101
Rec'd 151

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Well I'm a man of leisure for one week. It is Monday and we have the whole week to ourselves all but for one hr. of dull (every morning from 9 until 10).
We had 6 tests on Fri. and I hope to make out OK in them. I'm practically in 2nd term. In fact I guess I can say I'm in 2nd term although we didn't [have] any official notice, but they dropped all those that didn't make second term so I guess it's safe in saying so.
Sat. afternoon Tiny and I did our Christmas shopping and Sunday after church we wrapped them at Casablanca (Tiny's sorority house). I sacked them all in a box and sent them today by R.R. express so don't be surprised when a big box arrives. But remember one thing and that is DON'T OPEN UNTIL CHRISTMAS. I have a present for Aunt Anna which I couldn't fit in the box so I will send it to you and you can wrap it and give it to her at Christmas OK? I put Grandma's present with yours so you can put it under the Christmas tree. I am not going to tell anybody what I got for anybody else in the family so when each one opens there's it will be a surprise. OK?
Today I went downtown to get a few odds and ends, Christmas cards, etc.
I am up at Gerlinger Hall and Tiny is practicing on the piano for her finals which come up next week.
We went to the show yesterday and saw "Lily Mars" with Judy Garland and Van Heflin. I liked it a lot. I like to see Van Heflin ever since I saw "Johnny Eager." Remember him in that picture?
It's getting cold up here in the morning in fact I got pretty cold during that hr. of drill this morning. (I didn't have my overcoat on as we couldn't wear them) but it's still starting to snap up a little. The dew on the grass and roofs freeze over and it looks real nice and then the sun comes out and melts it. I don't mind it when it's cold as long as it doesn't rain.
I guess that's about all for now. I am answering all the letters I couldn't answer during the term and I guess that will keep my pretty busy. I just found out that some of the fellows that left on furloughs Sat. were stuck up in Portland because they missed their train by 10 minutes and had to wait 15 hrs. for the next train. That's how uncertain train riding is which means you need plenty of time when you travel. I hope Tony (my roommate) wasn't in that bunch that missed the train.
I'll close now wishing everybody is in the best of health and very happy.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. Give Grandma my love & kisses.
P.S. #2--I am [glad] Boby liked her present. And that's very thoughtful of Al Lindner. He's very thoughtful isn't he.
I'm glad the roofer came to fix Grandma's roof.
If I find out the marks I got on the G.I. tests I'll let you know. The G.I. tests are marked by machines and they are graded by the no. right but will make those marks correspond to A,B,C,D,F according to their charts. I know I got A in Trigonometry but I don't know about the rest.

Dear Helen

Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of Oregon
12/3/43

Dear Helen,

One down and 5 more terms to go. Our term ended today with a strenuous week with, about 13 tests which made our heads whirl a bit. But being I'm still here I guess I made out alright. They certainly keep us busy from morning till night so during this one week off I have to answer about 30 letters I couldn't answer as yet.

Before I say anymore I must confess I started a letter as soon as I received yours but I never got a chance to finish it. But that's no excuse, I should have found time.

I don't want to say much about the unhappy incident, but I want to express my deepest sympathy. Yes Helen there is only one place and that is heaven and that's so easy to say knowing his family as I do.

And for the happy occurrence, your sister's baby reminded me of an incident that happened in my family about 20 years. When I was born, my Grandfather passed away in the same week. And when my mother was talking about it, she said they were more than happy when I arrived because it took their minds off the incident that they didn't want to happen. I hope it was the same for your family.

I hope your sister's baby isn't like the baby I was. I hear I was an awful pest.

The term was 3 months long and we have 3 terms in basic before we go to advanced engineering.

It certainly is swell here and it's so far from being like the army that if I would ever flunk out it would be just like leaving home again; for the army. But I'll try to stay here as long as possible being I am learning something, getting actual credits, and having a good time besides. I guess it's unbeatable for the army. huh?

The "Hello Dance" was a sure success and we had a swell time. The boys in the unit here formed a band and from time to time they give dances and "Jive" concerts whenever they can get the gym. The sorority houses on the campus are always inviting the boys over for dances. Last week they gave four dances and we had a rare time. I spend my weekends at the "Casablanca Lodge Sorority House." It used to be a fraternity (Alpha Tau Omega) but being there aren't many boys on the campus the girls took over.

The boys also organized a football team. They had several games on Sat. afternoons which were quite exciting.

About 3 weeks ago, Marjorie Lawrence, the noted Metropolitan Opera star, came to the campus and put a swell opera on. There is usually something happening when it comes to the weeks end.

It was really funny last weekend. I was invited to the sorority house for dinner. Just me and another fellow was there and about 40 coeds and if you think it was easy sitting there--well anyway I certainly felt awkward. That will be the last time I accept a dinner date although it was a lot of fun.

We get one week off but only 7 days is not enough to go home so I will try to amuse myself here. I have plenty to do at any rate. Christmas shopping & letter writing etc.

I think I talked enough about me so will change the subject. How are you and how is everything ticking way out there in the middle states?

The weather out here is still mild. At first we had plenty of rain but for awhile now the weather has surprised just about everybody and it's really nice.

I hope I hear from you soon again and when you do't hear from me so soon I hope you will understand and just drop a postcard once in awhile, OK. I think in the new year's resolution I will put in one to have a petition signed by all the boys to the army personnel to give us a period during the day for writing letters. But you know the army, so.....

I certainly liked the compliment at the bottom of your letter "Lt. A.J. Curcio." It sounds good but I think it's quite a ways off yet. Still your the only that mentioned it. You certainly have originality anyway.

I'll close now hoping you are in the best of health and very happy and hope you have a real good old fashioned holiday spirit like the kind I dream of that gets me so homesick. Be good and give your family and the little baby my best regards.

Sincerely As Ever,

Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 100

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene ORE

11/29/43
Letter No. 100
Rec'd 149-150

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I'm still recuperating from those G.I. Tests we had. Boy were they tough. But it ain't over yet. We still get tests from the University. I'll let you know how I make out as soon as I get the results.
Last Thursday (Thanksgiving) we had a good turkey dinner. We didn't have to go to study that night. They gave a dance from 7 o'clock to 10:15 it was pretty good. The only trouble we still had to be in bed by 10:30.
We had a pretty nice weekend as usual. We went to the show Sat. night and saw "Let's Face It" with Bob Hope. Boy it certainly was funny. It had us in stitches all during the show.
Sunday morning we went to church and for dinner Tiny invited me over to eat at the sorority house. There were other fellows there but I still felt kind of funny with all those girls there. It wouldn't have been so bad, but Tiny is president and she sits at the head of the table and I had to sit next to her. But I survived. It was a lot of fun. In the afternoon we went to get a Christmas tree for the house. It was a pretty nice one too. Sunday night we went to Gerlinger Hall again.
I think it would be a good idea to send D'Angelo a package ma. He deserves it.
I am glad the dinner was so good ma. I'll never be satisfied until I see one of those delicious chickens in front of me. But I won't squawk ma.
The weather is still pretty good and we didn't have any snow as yet. It won't be long tho.
I got your sweet card also ma. Thanks.
I hope he comes and fixes Grandma's roof before it's too late. What you say is right. There is a time limit.
Give Grandma my love and kisses and I'll close now hoping everybody is in the best of health and hoping you all are happy.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 99

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene ORE

11/22/43
Letter No. 99
Rec'd 146, 147

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It's Monday night & I got excused from mail call so I could go and get a haircut so I may not finish tonight. I'll try my best tho.
The term is drawing to a close and the heat is certainly on. On this Friday & Sat (26-27) we are going to have our final tests (G.I. tests and they ain't no [?]) 2 1/2 hrs. a piece, one after another. It's going to be tough but I'll pull out of it all right.
Tiny & I had a pretty good time this weekend again. Sat. afternoon they had a football game and although we lost it was a good game. I'll include a clipping. Sat. night all the sorority houses gave dances. Tiny's house gave a circus dance and they all got dressed up and they had bails of hay on the floor and it was fixed up real nice. We had a swell time.
Sunday morning we went to church. In the afternoon the co. band had a program of music and entertainment and it was really good. And Sunday night we went to our usually spent at Gerlinger Hall and Tiny played for me again.
More fellows left today because they flunked out. When we studied at the beginning of the term we had 27 in our section and now there are only 12 left.
I sent Boby a little present for her birthday. I hope she likes it.
My roommate's name is Tony Cruick (?). He's from Chicago. He's a swell fellow.
You asked me if I need anything. I could use a couple of sets of underwear. Try to get under T-shirts and jockey shorts. O.K. As for shirts I could use some if you get the right kind of khaki shirt. I take 15-33. Thanks, ma.
I feel fine ma and I hope you all feel the same. I am glad everything is working out Ok with Grandma's house. You tell Grandma I went to church Sunday and give her my love & kisses.
I got a letter from Bruno & he is making out O.K. I'm glad he is because he deserves it.
I also got a letter from Elfrieda and she is going back home again because her husband is leaving for the Navy. It's too bad it couldn't last a little longer. (I may have told you that already).
The weather is surprisingly good yet. It amazes everyone around here.
I'll close now and say a little prayer for me that I pass my tests O.K. Until my next letter

I remain Your Loving Soldier Boy
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 97

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene
ORE
11/15/43
Letter No. 97
Rec'd 145

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It's Monday afternoon right before chow and have a few minutes to spare. The weather has been exceptionally good and I really am surprised. Sunday afternoon Tiny and I went for hike & climbed up on the hills next to the University and from there you can see the whole town of Eugene & the Willamette River which flows right next to Eugene. It's really beautiful.
We went up to Gerlinger Hall again & she played for me. It seems to be a habit (a nice habit).
Starting today I am in charge of Quarters. I have to give the report to the orderly room that everyone is in bed on my floor. Everyone gets a turn.
I passed my history & trigonometry tests and Chemistry too. I'll let you know about the rest when I get them.
I received 3 letters today. One from Ma, Ele & Elfrieda.
Elfrieda is moving back home again as her husband is going into the Navy. Otherwise things are OK.
The mail around here doesn't come regular. I usually get them in batches.
That tooth never bothered me ma, so I didn't bother with it. Leave well enough alone. Right?
I hope Sister feels alright. Is she sick like when I was home or is she just have a bad cold? Let me know.
I guess it would be a good idea to put my clothes in [?]. Anything you say ma.
I was hoping Grandma wouldn't have any trouble with the house. It makes me feel bad because she has to take care of everything herself.
I am glad Ele is making out OK with her school work. She got to keep at it [?] that piano too. I know now what it means to hear good playing and that's just the way I want Ele to play.
I forgot to tell you that Tiny & I ate the jam and crackers and boy was it good and Tiny liked it an awful lot you could see that. We about finished the jar.
Sat. I bought a garrison cap and a belt. Everybody has the garrison cap so I thought I would get one too. It looks real neat.
Ma, try to get me a list of what everybody would like for Christmas & I'll see whether I can get it here, OK. I need a few ideas to get started. I'll close now hoping everybody is with the best of health & give Grandma my love & kisses.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. I found a clipping of the beaver I told you about. Oregon State didn't come & get it yet.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene

Date 11/10/43
Letter No.
Rec'd

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I received your letter and when I read it I certainly felt blue. I guess I didn't word my letter too well but do you think for one moment that if I could get home that I wouldn't come home. I couldn't possibly travel from here to N.Y. in 1 week. When I was back in Tacoma it took the fellows 4 days to get to N.Y. This is even further and connections aren't at all good. You say Bruno had seven days and spent 24 hrs. home. I am 24 hrs. ride from Washington State College from which Bruno got his furlough. And when he went home he told me that if he did make it in that time it would be just plain luck, but he didn't care whether he did get back in time or not. And if you don't get back at the proper time you are automatically dropped from the outfit. This is not a regular camp and you can be dropped for the least little thing. They dropped over 100 fellows since the term started. I know five fellows here, all have the same situation I have. One of them has been in the army two years and before he was stationed here he was at Fresno Calif. He traveled home many of times and said he would go home unless he has 12 days traveling time for fear he wouldn't get back in time. I told you in one of my letters that I wouldn't be able to fly home because the Commandant would not issues furloughs to anyone who had to fly home because there is no assurance of getting back. Clifford was able to fly home because he got a priority from his C.O.
So I have no mind to change, there is just no possible means. I guess my terminology wasn't too clear but that was on thing I didn't like to write about and wanted to say it in as few words as possible. You just don't know how I felt when I read that letter. I couldn't study all day just because it was on my mind. I'll be more careful in the words I use when I write letters. I am sorry if I disappointed you.
Then I received a letter from Bobby saying the same thing. But Bobby stated that I worded my letter funny and I saw where I made my mistake but even tho I didn't word it so good I was surprised you all could figure it out especially from my last letters. I hope it doesn't happen again.
I can't keep up with all my mail. I try my best to write all that I can. I was all set to finish this letter to night but we had to sign the payroll. We have about 1 1/2 hrs to write letters & do whatever we have to do that's necessary. Tomorrow a General is coming around to inspect and we have to do extra work to get things straightened up. Tomorrow night we have to march in a parade on Main Street (Nov. 11 Armistice Day). We have so much work to do now it ain't funny, but we have to march because it's orders from Headquarters. Monday we have to turn in our clothes for [?] & Tues. laundry. Last week I had to get a haircut. It's those little things that take our time away, the little we have but I try my best to write. So if I should miss a day or so try to take those things into consideration. OK.
We had two tests today. Chemistry & Geog. and they are really putting the pressure on. Tomorrow it's Math & Friday it's Physics. This is not a regular college course because the pressure is constantly on us. That's why so many flunked out so far. I think they cut the course just a little too much. But I'm plugging away at it and am doing fairly well.
I received the package today with the jelly, candy, socks & cigarettes and crackers. I didn't taste the jam as yet. I'm going to save it for the weekend when I really can sit down and enjoy it. The socks are swell.
I am sorry to hear Bobby resigned but I don't blame her. She should have gotten further by this time. It's just like the army I guess, right, Bob?
Oregon State College is at Corvallis a short walk from here, and they have a mascot, the Beaver. It's a statue made of metal about 8 ft. long and 4 ft. high in the shape of a beaver (ours is the duck). It's been a tradition to steal the beaver from Oregon State College campus. Well that's what some of the fellows did. They brought it back and put it on the University campus so the girls in Tiny's house took it from campus and brought it in their living room. It almost takes up the whole room. Oregon State College will try to get it back I guess, but they don't know when it is, and when they do find out there is going to be a little excitement. We have a huge letter O on the side of one of the big hills around the campus and Oregon State comes over & paints it orange, that's their color. So the fellows that stole the beaver painted the beaver yellow & green (those are our colors). I'll let you know what happens.
I am writing you in study period now but I want to finish it now because I won't be able to tomorrow.
The weather has been pretty good all week so far. Very little rain.
I receive your cute card but the paper was a little small so I'll use it next time.
Elfrieda's birthday is the 14th of November so I got her some stationary at the co-op and sent it to her. I put one of the birthday cards in that sister sent me. They're real swell. Sister certainly can pack those packages. They're really solid.
I'll close now hoping it finds you all in the best of health and hope you find the letter explanatory. Give Grandma my best, love & kisses. Until then I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. I'm glad Joe wrote to you. I will write him as soon as possible.
P.S. I will include a couple of cards I found in one of the stores Sunday.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 96

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene

Date 11/5/43
Letter No. 96
Rec'd --

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I start this letter now but I won't be able to finish it. It is Friday night and believe it or not we didn't have any rain today--yet!
I got my algebra test back that we had last Sat. (the two hr. one). I got 143 our of 210 pts. I feel I could have did better but the average was 119 so I feel I did all right. Today we had another History test and I believe I made out pretty good. I'll let you know.
I wrote Grandma a letter and mailed it yesterday and I got it back today because I forgot to put the stamp on it. So apologize for me. OK.
It's Monday morning now. I like to write on Monday anyway because then I can tell you all about the weekend. And it was a swell weekend too. Sat. night Marjorie Lawrence was at the gym and sang. She's the noted opera star and boy she was good. Last year she was stricken with paralysis and she has to move around in a wheelchair. But it doesn't seem to handicap her singing any.
Tiny belongs to her Phi Beta arts club. Only those that have real ability can join. Well Marjorie Lawrence joined their chapter and Tiny got the honors for presenting Marjorie Lawrence with the honors. She certainly got a thrill out of it. They had a little ceremony at one of the hotels and only the members were allowed. I would have liked to see it. Sunday morning Tiny & I went to church.
In the afternoon we went to vespers they had on the campus for all students. At night we went to see one of Tiny's roommates at the hospital. She is having her appendix out. All in all we had a swell time.
Sunday morning it really looked beautiful around here. The dew on all the grass and roofs froze and then the sun came up and it sparkled just like if it was water. Boy it looks swell.
This week we have four more tests again. Gosh they pop up one after another. I'll have to study real hard for these. They are getting harder all the time.
I was just thinking when you send me the socks and stuff you could put my Bulova watch in and insure the package. I certainly use a watch, ma. I really miss one around here. Everything is on the time schedule. OK.
I feel fine ma and I hope you all do too. I will try to write as soon as possible again. Give Grandma my love & kisses.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 95

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene

Date 11/1/43
Letter No. 95
Rec'd --

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann, Ele,

It didn't rain over the weekend but there still wasn't any sun out. It's always cloudy.
We had another swell weekend. We went to the show Sat. night and saw "Stormy Weather" and I liked it an awful lot. We also saw "Aerial Gunner." I saw already tho, but there isn't much of a selection in town. I always get in early on Sat. night because all the girls on the campus have to be in by 12:15. So Tiny has to be in also because she is president and she must set a precedent. It feels good tho because you can get a good nights sleep.
Sunday morning Tiny went to church with me. It was the funniest thing. We were talking a mile a minute to each other and we accidentally passed the church so we got there late so we stayed for another mass, and right after mass they started the 40 hr. devotion so we spent practically all morning in church.
Sunday afternoon (we had chicken again for dinner) we stayed at the sorority house and I was teaching her a few N.Y. steps. At night we went to Gerlinger Hall and they have a swell piano there & she played for me. Next time she is going to get a record made and I will send it to you and then you can see what I mean.
This morning they had a mass for the students & the campus. So my roommate and I went (All Saints Day).
I took in the pictures & they will be done some time this week. I will send them as soon as I get them.
We were notified Sat. that our term would be over on the fourth of Dec. and we only get one week off--from the 4-12--so that means I won't be able to get home. That's one thing I hoped I wouldn't have to write but that's all the time they will give us. So I'll just send my time here in Eugene thinking about home. I guess that that's no Christmas present for you ma, but please don't worry about it and we'll just pray a little harder that this war will be over soon. And at the rate they are going it won't take them long.
I am getting along pretty good with my studies. The algebra test on Sat. was a bit hard but I think I passed it OK.
I received your package ma. Thanks a lot. That gum and candy certainly come in handy. And the shaving kit certainly feels good to use again.
I hope you are all in the best of health and please don't worry, and I am in the best of health. I will write soon again. So until then I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. Send my Love & Kisses to Grandma. I will try to write tomorrow.
P.S. I just found a letter in my book. I'll answer it in my next letter. And thank Grandma again for the stamp. Love T

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 94

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene

Date 10/27/43
Letter No. 94
Rec'd 133, 134, 135, 136, 137

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

By gosh it's not raining today. For about two weeks it just rained and rained, morning, noon and night.
I made out pretty good on my tests last week. I got 66 in an English test (pretty good huh), 86 in Geog., 77 Physics, 62 Hist., 90 & 87 Military Law. We take a two hr. exam in algebra on Sat. I'll have to do good in that.
We don't get numerical marks for the quarter. We get letters like A, B, C, D, or F for failure.
I went out again with Tiny on Sat. and Sunday and we had a pretty good time. Sat. we went to the show and saw "Oklahoma Kid." It was a bit old but it was good. Sunday the A.S.T.U. Football team played the calvary and won 33-12. I guess they are pretty good. Sunday night we just went to a restaurant and had something to eat and then took a little walk and then she played on the piano for me. Do you know how a concert pianist plays, just goes from one piece to another, so smooth with her hands just gliding over the keys. You can just sit there and relax. I wish you could hear her play ma.
Hemenway flunked out and was shipped to Camp Abbot? in eastern Georgia. He may come in this weekend.
I felt so bad when I heard that Boby had to have two teeth pulled. She's so careful in cleaning her teeth all the time. I hope she feels better.
I received the two packages. I think I mentioned it already tho. I certainly would like some jelly ma. And when I eat it, it will take me right back home, and I can see Grandma and you stirring the jelly in the big pot and then pour it in to all the jars you saved of all different shapes and put the little pieces of paper on the top of the jars. We all don't know how good we had it ma. As for candy ma, I'll always like to receive them.
Yes ma it would be pretty hard to call me up. In the first place it's hard to get in touch with anyone around here because we are always in class and other obvious reasons.
You ask me what Tiny's real name is. It's Edna Fisher. (She's not Jewish tho).
I didn't think the fellas overseas could write anything in their letters about the battles etc? Or did Mr. Massa expand on the story a little?
We have chicken about every Sunday and they make it quite well here. And it certainly fills you up.
Are you getting a phone in the house? I didn't know about it.
I could use a few pair of socks ma (kaki) slightly heavy ones would do the trick.
I hope Al Lindner is O.K. Let me know how he is when you hear from him.
That was awful nice of Frank to tell Ann to get a hope chest. He's really a swell guy. And a real Marine.
I am in the best of health and I hope you all are and I hope Barb and Pa are feeling better. You didn't tell me what the doctor said when you went to see him. Let me know ma. Send Grandma my love and give her plenty of kisses for me. I'll try to write more often ma. Until then I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 93

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene

Date 10/18/43
Letter No. 93
Rec'd 131, 132

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It seems like ages since I wrote. I can't write to anybody. I just wrote 3 letters last week. Well I had a swell weekend. I spent all of it with Tiny. The girl I met last Sat. at open house. She's the most intelligent girl I ever talked to. She's a Junior at the University and she majors in Music. And boy can she play the piano. She plays over the broadcasting system at the U. sometimes and when she was in L.A. she played in the philharmonic. She's got quite a background. Sometimes I wonder how I get along with her, she's got so much brains. But we had a swell time at any rate.
They had another dance in the gym and the band was swell. Sat. afternoon our football team played a navy team at the stadium and although it was a good game we lost 25-6. It was a lot of fun tho.
Sunday afternoon we went canoeing and took some pictures. I'll send them home if they turn out. At night we bowled two games. She's so small she could barely lift the ball up--no less roll it down the alley, but she got a grand total of 68.
We are starting tests again: Today we had a history test. I think I made out O.K. in it. Tomorrow is English, Wed. Geog., Thurs. Military Law, & Fri. Physics. It's going to be another tough week.
A.S.T.U. means Army Specialized Training Unit. I was almost positive I told you ma.
My cold is all gone and I feel fine.
Ronald Hemenway and 50 others are leaving this week because they didn't make out so good in there subjects.
Give Grandma my love and I hope you are all in the best of health.
I'll try to write as soon as I can.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. I'll wait awhile with the papers. I can't get down to mail them as yet.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 92

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene

Date 10/12/43
Letter No. 92
Rec'd 126, 129, 130

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Gosh it's getting hard to write letters. We study 2 1/2 hrs. a night now instead of only two and have Sunday night off. And chow is at 5:30 instead of six and we have to fall out at 6:45 for study hall.
Friday night the university put on an assembly for the students. So first we went to study & then we went to assembly. They had the dance band and they put on a couple of skits and the Major & the president of the University said a few words. It was pretty good. On Sat. afternoon between 4 & 6 the sorority houses were open for all the service men. They called it open house. So Hemenway and myself went to the Alpha Tau Omega (A.T.O.) and [it was a] very nice house. Well we were the first ones there and did we feel silly. There must have [been] about 30 girls in there. We felt very much relieved when some other soldiers came in. We danced and talked. So guess who I met? The president of the house. She's a junior at the University. They call her Tiny because she is so small. She's only 4'11 3/4". She's one of those intellects. She's only 19 and is majoring in music. I think she's about the most intelligent girls I ever talked to. I took her to the show Sunday afternoon and saw "Five Graves to Cairo" & "Henry Aldrich Gets Glamour." I saw the one first but it was good to see it over again. It certainly swell out here on the campus ma. It's so different from an army camp and everybody treats me swell here.
I made out in everything except History. I try harder this quarter.
I wanted to send the money home but there is no way I can do it on the campus and when I get into town the post office is closed. Do you want me to wire it home?
Did I tell you I got the box with the slide rule & etc? Well I did and everything is O.K. The cards are swell too. Thank Ann for me.
I certainly would like to see the baby. I bet she certainly is getting beautiful.
You can send the shaving kit. In fact I was thinking of asking you to send it.
You could send some of my favorite tobacco. It will be a swell change.
Thanks for the swell card also. And thank Grandma for her card and stamps. They always come at the right time. I had one left. Give Grandma a kiss for every stamp ma.
Also thank Boby for her letter. It's swell to hear from her. So until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. I started 3 different times before I finished this letter. But I wanted to make it a little long.

Dear Helen

Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O.
EUGENE
10/7/43

Dear Helen,

I hope you don't think I'm kidnapped or something but last week we just about got a test in every subject we got and it certainly kept me busy. We study 10 1/2 hrs. a day instead of 10 also so...but I am so certain you'll understand that I don't think I will go any further.
I am making out pretty good in math, physics, chem., but Eng. Hist. and Geog. make me a bit worried sometimes. But I guess I'll pull thru somehow or another.
We were also tested by the major in drilling a platoon and altho we were a bit nervous I made out pretty good.
I'll include a few clippings from the U. paper to give you an idea of what's going on. I did lose my stripes but so did everybody also. Sgts. etc. are all privates now.
I wish I could write a lot more but time is so short for us around here. I got 20 letters in my draw that I didn't answer, but your one of the first I am answering because just love receive letters from you.
We have to fall out in a few minutes so i will close now but please write soon. I'll try to write more next time. I hope you and your family are in the best of health. Until then

I remain sincerely
as ever
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 91

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene, Ore.

Date 10/4/43
Letter No. 91
Rec'd 128

Dear Mom, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Here it starts another week and it was a bit hard to get started being Anita was down but I'm back in the groove again. We had a swell time. She got in town about 1 o'clock Sat. afternoon and got a room at the hotel. She called up the orderly room, and then as soon as I got back from class I went down. (That is after I got paid - that was the first time in three months so as soon as I get a chance I will send the money home.) They had a dance at the University gymnasium. And we had a swell time. We did the lindy and as we were doing it one of the men of the paper took our picture. I hope they print it. I showed her around the campus Sunday and in the afternoon we say "So Proudly We Hail." And boy was it good. An excellent picture. She had to catch the 6:43 train back so I just about saw her off as I had to be back at the dormitory at 7:15. We had a swell time. I hated to see her go.
I caught a honey of a cold too. I must have caught it at the dance. I did get a bit sweated up.
Well I said my speech on Sat. and made OK believe it or not. It really surprised me.
I subscribed to the yearbook. It comes out in May. Last year it got the nations award. They are going to have a part for the A.S.T.U. so I thought it would be nice to have.
The weather is starting to get a bit rainy. That's what it's going to be all winter. Just like Washington weather.
I hope everybody is in the best of health & I hope pop is O.K.
I'll close now remaining

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. I am sorry if I miss writing you some things ma. They just slip my mind sometimes. And ma, you know I always love to receive letters from you.

Love
T

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 90

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O. Eugene, Ore.

Date 10/1/43
Letter No. 90
Rec'd ---

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I am going to try to attempt to drop a line before I fall out. If not I'll finish tonight.
Well my tests are just almost over. Boy they certainly get people worried. But I think I made out fairly well anyway. I got my mark in math already. We had 15 problems and I got 13 right. Boy I was sore because I got the two wrong because they were so simple. I [?] with myself. But I think I got a pretty good grade don't you? Physics test was pretty easy. I'll let you know what I got when I find out. Chem was alright. History & Geography are on the border line. But I can't say how I made out. So keep your fingers crossed. You know how I spit out my words.
They even gave us a test in drilling a platoon. The captain said it was very good. And compared to some of the other fellows I though it was pretty good myself not too conceited of course.
We are learning how to swim correctly. Which will be quite an advancement if I can do it the way he says.
During physics laboratory today we performed an experiment (another fellow and myself) and we came out with a .75% [?] and the teacher said it was the best one he say all week. That also made me feel that I am getting along pretty well.
I had to drop there and fall out but I just came back from study and have a few more minutes before I go to bed.
Well Anita comes tomorrow & I can't wait till I see her. It can't come fast enough. I write and let you know all about it.
I am fine and in the best of health. I hope you all are the same and I hope Pop feels O.K.
I have the University paper which gives you a good idea of how things are on the campus. I will send it to you soon. Until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Solider Boy,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 89

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O.

Date 9/29/43
Letter No. 89
Rec'd 126

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I hope you all don't mind if I cut this letter a little short. We certainly are cramped for time. All week we have been taking tests and my head is just going around with figures. Tomorrow is math and friday is physics and Sat. I have to give a speech. I couldn't even sleep last night. I was so restless with so much in my head but -- I'm not complaining. I'll get used to it after awhile. I got about 20 letters to answer but I only wrote two all week. This one and one to Anita to let her know where to meet me etc. I told you she's coming Sat.
Sunday for chow we each had a half a chicken. I never had such a meal in the army before. Chicken, potatoes, string beans, bread, butter, salad, coffee, milk, ice cream. Boy it was swell. And plenty of it too.
I received your letter with Fluffy in it. He's so cute. I always did like cats. Maybe we will get one some day, huh, ma?
I received a letter from Ann & Pop. Thanks a lot. I also received a V. letter from Frank today and a V. letter from Howard Barber, one of the boys from N.Y. that I was separated from. He is in England now.
I'll have to close now ma. So until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. Please excuse the writing and I am so sorry I have to cut it so short, but I am sure you will understand.

Love
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 88

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O., Eugene, Ore.

Date 9/26/43
Letter no. 88
Rec'd 122, 134, 125

Dear Mom, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Today is Sunday and it's very gloomy. Drizzling now and then. It's good for writing letters and a bit of studying. I'm going to have tests next week. History tomorrow. I hope I make out all right.
Yesterday I went to the show & saw "Slightly Dangerous." Which I enjoyed very much. It sure was funny. And "The Falcon's Brother" which also was pretty good. I got to bed pretty early. About 11:30.
Last week some of the fellows made noise after taps were blown (10:30) so the 1st Sgt. said taps will be at 10 o'clock until they can keep quiet. So that cut down our time another half hour. So we have to rush from study (9:30) and be in bed by 10 o'clock. I don't know how long it will last.
I didn't see any plums out here, although we have them quite a few times and they taste very good.
Anita is coming down to see me Oct. 2 that's next Sat. Gosh she's a swell girl.
I am so glad sis likes her lessons so well. You never can tell. She may out play Bob & Ele.
I received a very nice letter from Frank. It took over a month to get here. Boy he writes a swell letter, so much morale and so cheerful. He's a real guy. I meant it from the bottom of my heart.
I'm glad Pop is OK. Did he receive my letter?
How are you feeling ma? You never say much about yourself?
I'm glad Ele is making out so well in school. It's good to hear she is doing all the extra work. That's the only way to get ahead & it shows here intelligence.
I received your card and it's real swell ma. Love & Kisses
I hope Grandma is in the best of health and I hope her garden is coming along OK.
I guess that's all ma. I may go bowling a little later but I don't know yet. Until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy
Love & Kisses
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 87

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O, Eugene

Date 9/22/43
Letter No. 87
Rec'd 122

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I received your letter telling me Pa was in the hospital and I got such a funny feeling I couldn't do anything last night. I hate to hear of anyone being in the hospital. But if you say he is alright ma, I guess it's alright. I wrote Dad a letter last night and sent it right away.
I received the envelope containing the pictures and the writing paper. Boy Boby and Ann certainly look swell. They look so healthy. Boby looks a bit thinner around her face, or is it just that I haven't seen her for a while. Ann looks like she picked up a little weight. Let me know if I am right in my assumption.
You wrote on one of the pictures "It looks very much like they are stealing your stuff." What do you mean by that ma. I didn't quite understand it.
I didn't hear from Joe D'Angelo. I certainly would like to hear from him. I'll drop a line to his father and find out what his address is. I didn't get those pictures from Idaho. DiFranza didn't get them developed yet.
My subjects are coming along pretty good. My math & physics are fine but I have the same trouble with English & History as I had in high school but I am trying to bear down on them.
In military P.E. we are getting experience in how to drill a platoon and giving commands. Compared to the rest I am doing fine. There are more officers around this place. We are being worked on R.O.T.C. training. So they want things just right.
The weather here is quite hot in the afternoon but very cool in the morning. It's not bad tho.
I'll sign off now. I'll have to fall out in a few minutes as per usual. So until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy
Tony

P.S. I got a heel put on my civilian shoes. 55 cents. That's pretty good isn't it?

Dear Pop

Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O.
Oregon
9/21/43

Dear Pop,

I just received word from ma that you were in the hospital. Ma says you are O.K. and I sure hope that you recover quickly. Dad you are forever having something the matter with you but that's the least worry as long as you are O.K.
I hope you have a room where you can see Brooklyn Technical H.S. And as you look at that building say to yourself, "That's the place where my son got his start and now he's continuing in the same form of education, doing his part in the war." And then if I can continue thru the course I may get a chance to become an officer. I'll bet you'll be proud of me then won't you.
We are certainly learning an awful lot here. I guess anyone would by studying 10 hrs. a day at a University. It's certainly a break for us fellows that we got the opportunity.
Now Pa, I want you to bear down and get well in a real hurry and when ma sends me a report I want them to be increasingly better each time.
I have to fall out now for classes & I want to get this off as quick as possible so here wishing you a quick recovery.

Your Loving Son,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 86

Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O.
Eugene
Letter 86
Rec'd ----
9/20/43

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It's Monday again and another report from your soldier boy.
Sat. morning we had inspection and we certainly had to have things on the ball. Anyway we passed. So we [were] supposed to have from 3 o'clock Sat. off but they decided to have a medical inspection so we got off at 4 instead.
During P.E. on Sat. we were given tests in chins, [?], 300 yrd. run & piggyback for a hundred yards. By the end of the term we are supposed to do better. I did 7 chins, 10 3/4 [?] in 20 sec., 300 yd. run in 42.3 sec., piggyback in 24.8 sec. Boy was we tired and they aren't finished. We get a few more. I like it a lot. It's puts a lot of morale into things.
Sat. when we finally got into town we went to a show & saw "Reap the Wild Wind." I enjoyed it an awful lot. Also "Border Patrol." After that we went bowling again. This time I got 95-135-108. So now my high score is 135. I'm improving anyway.
Sunday morning I went to 9:30 mass. It seems like whenever I got to church someone picks me up in a car & takes me right in front of the church. This time it was a soldier in a 1942 Packard.
After chow we went to the show again & saw "The Constant Nymph" with Charles Boyer & Joan Fontaine. Boy I like that an awful lot. I also saw "Report from the Aleutians" which I enjoyed very much also.
Last night we had our regular study classes.
I received a package with shaving cream, cigarettes & candy and a picture of Bob & the girls in the jeep. Thanks a lot ma. But I didn't receive any pictures you mention in one of the letters. Which ones did you send if you did send them? Boy the shaving cream just came in time. I had one more shave in the old tube.
I hope you are going to send the books & slide rule. But don't send too many. I am sending a box tomorrow with a little book from the U. of O., a banner for Ele, & some letters.
Chow call so I'll say so long for a while. My subjects are coming along OK but the day is so long. But I'm not complaining. The weather is pretty nice too. Until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. Please excuse the blots. I had a little difficulty.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 85

Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O.
Eugene, Ore.
Letter 85
Rec'd (2) 121 9/9-9/10
9/16/43

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It is Thursday night and I'll start a letter. Although I won't be able to finish it all at once. I guess I will have to write like that from now on unless I cut them short, and I don't want to do that.
Four day and I'm still alive. I feel sorry for the boys who didn't have a knowledge of some of the subjects. They certainly are feeding us plenty. So far I am making out OK.
I am always talking about the good system they have here for everything. Well today we went to P.E. and got a full set of clean gym clothes and they will be ours until the end of the term. We just have to pay for their cleaning at the end of each month. They are cleaned each time we go there & that's 3 times a week. We got a sweatshirt, pants, athletic support, socks, & sneakers (I think we will have to pay). And a towel. Boy what a swell system. I really like it.
Davidson is here also. And I just got a letter from Borella and he said he made it home. He was home 24 hrs. He said it was worth it. He said he wrote you a letter. Did you receive it?
DiFranza went to Salt Lake City, Utah. And while on the subject of DiFranza, There is no reason why you should be peeved. The nurse was the girl I met. All you have to do is ask me ma. I can't remember whether I wrote nurse or girl in the letter before. And I wish you wouldn't get peeved anymore about things like that because it isn't worth it ma. Ain't that right?
Aunt Anna told me Clifford's address & guess where he is? In this big country he is about 25 miles from me. He's at Camp Adair and we drew rations from that camp. What a coincidence. I just wrote him a card tonight.
I am still fussy about fat ma, but not as much. I still take it all off.
Anita may come down Oct. 2. I hope she does. She's a swell girl.
I'll close now. I didn't think I would finish but I just made it by 3 minutes. So long until my next letter

Your Loving Soldier Boy
Love & Kisses
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 84

Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of ORE.
Eugene, Ore.
Letter 84
Rec'd 120

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I got a few minutes so I thought I would write a few lines until I fall out.
Well we got some workout in P.E. today and boy they really went to town on us and I believe that's the best workout since I'm in the army. And then we took a swell shower and I weighed myself strip. I weigh 156 - not bad for strip.
Your letter 120 made me feel more [?] than happy ma. About Aunt Anna's letters. But we will forget it and let it go at that?
And I'm almost positive I told you about the two girls we met on the bus when we went to Spokane. I wish you would look that up.
I got a letter from Anita today & she thanks you an awful lot for the hankie. I think she wrote you a letter.
She also said she may come down to see me being Tacoma is so close. I hope she does come down.
Times just about up so I'll close remaining

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Love & Kisses,
Tony

P.S. Thanks for your card ma. It was very sweet.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 83

Co. "A" ASTU 3920
U. of O.
Eugene
Letter 83
Rec'd --
9/15/43

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Just now I have about 15 minutes to spare so I'll start a letter. I just finished chow. Boy they certainly tossing the books at us. I hope I can catch it as fast as they throw it. I'll list the program we have to follow:

TIME	MON	TUES	WED	THURS	FRI	SAT
8:00 to 8:50	CHEM	MATH S.S.	CHEM	MATH S.S.	CHEM	STUDY
9:00 to 9:50	CHEM S.S.	MATH S.S.	PHYS S.S.	MATH S.S.	CHEM S.S.	GEOG
10:00 to 10:50	MATH S.S.	P.E.	ENG. S.S.	P.E.	PHYS LAB	P.E.
11:00 to 11:50	PHYS. S.S.	P.E.	GEOG.	P.E.	PHYS LAB	P.E.
12 Noon
13:00 to 13:50	MATH	MATH LEC.	MATH	MATH LEC.	MATH	MATH LEC.
14:00 to 14:50	HIST.	ENG.	HIST	ENG.	HIST	ENG.
15:00 to 15:50	MILITARY PHYSICAL EDUCATION
16:00 to 16:50	PHYS	PHYS	PHYS	PHYS	PHYS	PHYS
17:00 to 17:50	MAIL CALL
18:00	DINNER
19:00 to 20:20	STUDY
20:30 to 21:30	STUDY

Tues. morning. I just got up. We just cleared up our room and I will go down and eat breakfast in about 15 minutes.
Well I had one day...and it's not bad but there is an awful lot of studying to do. We march to and from all classes and it looks swell seeing all the groups move around in formation. The teachers seem to be pretty good also. One teacher (history) is Colonel Robert M. Lyons (retired). He has 43 years in the army. He went thru West Point with Gen. Douglas MacArthur. And he taught Gen. Dwight Eisenhower & Gen. Bradley. History at West Point. He had a very interesting background.
You certainly get tired walking around the campus from class to class and I certainly slept last night.
I have a little booklet to tell you about the campus. I will send it along when I have a chance.
They certainly keep us on the ball here. Everything has to be just right & everything has a good system. And there is plenty of Majors, Lt. Colonels & Lieutenants to see that things are done right. You see there are R.O.T.C. Boys here and we more or less have to compete with them. But the more on the ball they get us the better I'll like it.
I hope everybody is in the best of health. And give my love & kisses to Grandma for me ma. I'll close now & try to get as much writing to you as possible. It took me two days to write this one. But there isn't too much to tell around here anyway (just study). So until my next letter I remain,

Your loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

From Bruno

September 13, 1943
"Duncan Dunn Hall"

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Curcio,

Rather reluctantly, I find myself once again back here in the State of Washington. You see, I have just returned from a 7 day furlough and it certainly was a dash across the states to get home and back here again without being A.W.O.L. Old New York and especially home hasn't changed much since I've been away. The villages on Long Island seem rather "dead" as most of the fellows are in the services. I had a total of 24 hrs. home and I certainly was on the go during that time. I wish that Tony had been with me to see New York loom up in the distance. It was a grand and appreciable sight to see again, but none I can't wait for my next furlough and it is rather "tough" knowing that you just have to wait and like it.
While I was away, 23 more fellows from the Univ. of Idaho were transferred here. I looked in vain for Tony and Ray and from what I heard, I believe that they have been sent to Oregon. I can well imagine how they must feel, especially knowing that there are numbers of colleges back home where we could have been sent. It seems that the West Coast has a grasp on all of us fellows from the East. However, we can all thank our lucky stars that we aren't overseas yet.
Yes folks, Tony was quite right when he wrote that I have to "keep an eye on the beam" all the time. The course that I am taking now is mostly mathematics and my high school days were seemingly wasted on bookkeeping and art. Although I have my doubts as to my success here, I intend to do my best regardless.
Perhaps in the future, when I get more than a 7 days furlough, I can pay you folks a visit. However, if you ever go out on Long Island, stop at Coram at ask for Borella's place. Everyone there knows us and I don't imagine that you'll have much trouble finding it. Just tell my folks that I've been with your son. They have the same enlarged snapshot of us there and I've often mentioned Tony in my letters. Tell my father that I recommend white wine served to you folks.
I'll surely see all of you after this war is over. Regards to the rest of the family.
Sincerely,
Bruno

From Howard Barber to Tony

PFC. Howard A. Barber
Co. A - 843rd Eng. Am. Bn.
APO 644 c/o Postmaster
New York, New York

9/13/43

Hi Tony!

You lucky guy--going to A.S.T.P.! Boy I sure did miss going with you by a hair breath. I mighta known you would fall in love with someone in Washington just like at J.B. How about Idaho--any developments?
I got a four day furlough and went to London with Joe Garbowsky of B'k'l'n. Did you know him? We met a couple of swell gals and they are writing us now. Don Carter also wanted to be remembered to you. He took the A.S.T.P. test with us at Hammer Field. I told Walt Sexton to write to Delaney and he said he would. He didn't have his address. Tell Delany Sexton's address is the same as mine except he is in H & S company. It's swell you're still with the bunch that had basic together. I had to make all new friends in this outfit--however there are quite a few from New York and B'k'l'n.
PFC. Buckbee just made corporal but he has a big reputation as a "brown nose." I'm an assistant squad leader and am entitled to corporal's stripes but I'll be satisfied to get them when I've earned them.

So long--take care of yourself
Howie

P.S. Have you heard anything from Joe?

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 82

Co. "A" ASTU 3920
U. of O.
Eugene
9/12/43
Letter 82

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It is Sunday afternoon and I am just about caught up with my mail. I want to write everybody before the term starts because I probably won't be able to answer them after.
Yesterday morning we had study classes and a refresher in Trig. And in the afternoon we were assigned to sections & platoons. We have to march from class to class in those platoons. So therefore we got rooms close together in the building so we all were assigned different rooms. And I got one which is just as nice as the other one.
Last night we went into town, it's about a half hour walk and there wasn't any dances that we liked so we bowled a few games. It's the first time I bowled. I guess Bob or Ann or Ele could beat me by a long shot. We bowled 3 games and I got 74, 82 & 117 in that order. They aren't any good I must admit but I gained each time so I felt OK. And it was a lot of fun. I don't know why I didn't go before.
This morning they had an army show at the Stadium (University Ball Park). So we went over and it was a swell show. They did some drill and demonstrated tanks, and jeeps etc. And some chemical warfare. It was a swell show.
All this afternoon I wrote letters. I wrote 10 in all. Boy I'm getting writers cramps.
I got a letter from Bobby and I certainly get a kick out of receiving her letters. She says an awful lot in a short space.
I looked around for postcards of the campus but I could only find two. I'll enclose them in this letter.
I hope everybody is in the best of health and very happy and I will write whenever I can. It won't be as much as I would like to but I'll try to write as much as I can. You know that better than I do. I'll close now. So until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 81

Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O.
Eugene
Letter 81
Rec'd 119

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It is the nite and I am sitting in my bunk and the dusk is starting to settle over the city of Eugene. I am completely contented except that I am so far from home. I hope I can get home after the first 3 months but it's hard to say right now. We'll just pray for the best.
Yesterday morning we got our clothes checked to see if we were short any. I am OK as usual. Then we were given the rest of the day for ourselves. So Hemenway & I went to town & got a hair cut & then went to a show & saw "Stage Door Canteen." Boy it was a good picture. I actually got tears in my eyes when the Marines got their call to leave & they all sang the "Marine's Hymn." Gosh what a chill I got thru my spine. I thought of sister & Frank.
Today we were given a test in the morning in mathematics & I think I made out OK. Then we went for a class in Trigonometry. And refreshed my memory a little. Boy the campus is certainly big. It seems to get bigger all the time. And the buildings are new & really beautiful. I am looking for some postcards but as yet didn't see any.
This afternoon we were issued our books. I got 12 of them. Boy what a load. And then we were given the rest of the day off.
I went to town and bought Anita a little cross like I got for Eleanor. Her birthday is the 21st of this month. As I go to town the more beautiful it gets. The houses are nice and the lawns are so pretty & green. It's really swell.
Boy they certainly have a system for everything. When we were issued our books, every book had the same no. in it. So you just have to remember one no. and it's the same in all the books issued. Isn't that smart. That's what I call a system.
The food is certainly swell. You couldn't ask for anything better.
I received a couple of letters today. I was certainly surprised to hear Ann is starting to take lessons, but more than surprised I'm glad she is taking them. And I sincerely hope she like them.
I am glad everything went OK with the wedding. I do not know whether he was Catholic or not. I didn't know him. I am glad Ele congratulated her. She should have gotten the bouquet. What do you say ma?
How about some pictures of everybody?
I am fine ma & I hope everybody is OK too. And how are you feeling ma? You didn't tell me in a while but I assume you are in the best of conditions. Give loads of kisses to Grandma for me ma. Your the only one I would ask if you know what I mean.
I'll close now remaining

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. Excuse the writing ma. I'm not used to writing in a bunk.

Dear Helen

Co. "A" A.S.T.U. 3920
U. of O.
EUGENE
9/9/43

Dear Helen,

Well I finally was shipped and now I am still further away from home, but aside from that I can't complain just a wee bit. I told you how nice the U. of Idaho was, well this is far superior. The campus is larger & more beautiful. We live in dormitories two in a room. I have a suite, two closets, 5 drawers, 3 mirrors & a bed that actually has springs in it. In fact I think it's too soft. The mess hall is immaculate and we eat out of plates. Can you imagine a soldier eating out of plates. It's all like a dream. Everything here so far has been run with perfect organization, something that makes my heart happy. You very seldom hear of that in the army. But I guess you really can't call this the army. I think I'll write & tell my mother to take down the service flag...her son is in the A.S.T.P.
We start classes on Monday & it will be plenty tough and we will be studying from morning till night. I hope I can get thru, and if I don't I'll say well I tried my best. But I hope and say I made it.
I will write whenever I can. I'm afraid it won't be as much as I would like to but I want you to know the reason why, rather than let you think I am neglecting my friends. And you would be the last one I would neglect. I mean that with all sincerity because I know the kind of person you are and I just love to read your letters. I hope you will answer soon, like you always do & I hope you are in the best of health & please send my regards to your family. So until then I remain

Sincerely as ever
Tony

P.S. Today I am 8 months in the army. It just came to me.
P.S. #2 After reading over the letter I forgot to tell you I left Moscow (?) Tues. nite about 5:30 and arrived here yesterday at about 1:30 P.M. First we traveled to Spokane & then headed south to Walla Walla, along the Columbia River to Portland and then to Eugene. I though you would like to know. T

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 80

Co. "A" ASTU 3920
U. of Oregon
Eugene, Oregon
9/8/43
Letter 80

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It doesn't seem like I'll ever get away from the West coast. I'm about 30 miles from the West coast between the Coastal Range Mts. & the Cascade Mountains & about in the middle of the state. But I don't think anybody could ask for anything better than what we have right here. I'll tell you about it in a minute. We left Moscow at 5:30 last night and arrived here about 1:30 PM today. First we went to Spokane, from Spokane we headed southwest to Wallula on the Wash. border and traveled along the border next to the Columbia River to Portland & from Portland down to Eugene. Eugene has a population of about 20 thousand and is a beautiful clean place. I raved about the conditions we had at the University of Idaho, but believe me when I say that the conditions and the campus are far superior than those of Idaho. It's a much larger campus and it holds a lot more students. We live in a men's dormitory, and the place is wonderful. I am with a friend of mine (Ronald Hemenway) (Kansas). There are two in each room. We have double beds, a sink, two closets, 6 large drawers & 4 small drawers, medicine cabinet & 3 mirrors. It looks like this: [drawing]

We have a latrine & two showers on each floor. The mess hall (or shall I say dining room) is immaculate. In fact the whole place is immaculate. We eat from plates & have cups & saucers for our coffee. Tonight for chow we had ham, potatoes, & cabbage on a plate, coffee, bottle of milk & a glass, [?] on a small plate, butter & bread on a small plate & a piece of pie. And boy it's good. The lounging room is like an old fashioned place with big heavy furniture. It's really swell.
Everything done so far has been done with perfect organization. And the way they talk it's really going to be swell. But we will have to work real hard.
We start classes on Monday. We will find more about the campus tomorrow.
I'll tell you more tomorrow. And I'll write when I can because we won't have too much time for ourselves. Until then I remain,

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Love & Kisses
Tony

P.S. Please tell Grandma & Aunt Anna. I'll write to Grandma tom.

T.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 79

Co. "A" STAR Unit 3902
U. of Idaho
Moscow
Letter 79
Rec'd (two) 116

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It is Monday morning & I believe things are starting to happen around here. DiFranza was shipped out yesterday. He's a language student.
Well DiFranza & I had another nice weekend. We went to Lewiston and almost didn't get there. Being DiFranza was shipping he had to be back at 10 o'clock Sunday morning. But we went anyway. Gerry Taplin (nurse) came down to meet us at the bus stop and we went to her house & had something to eat. Wall I certainly glad we went. Aside from having a good time, I saw the most beautiful sights I ever saw. There is a mountain right next to Lewiston and in order to get to Lewiston you have to go over the mt. It's about 6 thousand feet high and as you come down the side, the road makes hairpin curves all the way down. It took us about 30 minutes to get down. And from the top you can see Lewiston & Clarkston and Clearwater River & Snake River separating the two towns (HISTORICAL: that's where the Lewis & Clark expedition was ended. I believe they started from St. Louis). and you could see the mts. in the background and it looked simply beautiful. It was really something to see.
The four of us went to a little club they belonged to and we danced and had a couple drinks and then we went to another dance where they had a band. She's a nice dancer too. Her mother was planning on giving us a nice big meal at noon time Sun. but we had to leave at 7 in the morning so DiFranza could get back in time. We had a real nice time.
I got a letter from Pop. Thanks a lot. And I sent Aunt Margaret a letter last week. I hope she is better.
Bruno has Eng. Cadet before his name and it stands for Engineering Cadet because we are taking engineering.
I didn't get any letter from Frank recently. But I sent a V letter to him about a week ago. I hope he gets it.
I am fine and I probably am picking up some more weight although I didn't weigh myself. And my eyes seem to feel better.
The weather is pretty nice today. I hope you are all feeling well & happy. I will write soon again. Until then I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Love & Kisses
Tony

P.S. I also received the pictures. Thanks.

From Frank Voigt

Sept. 6, 1943

Dear Mom,

I have made three attempts (in as many days) to answer your letter. I was very happy to hear from you as usual but even more so this time since your last letter was last. By now you will have received the letter I wrote to you in August. If I am not mistaking, I wrote it about the same time as you wrote yours.
I also want to thank you for the cards you sent me. I made mention of them in my letters to Ann. She has no doubt told you.
I too will be looking forward to hear your two daughters play the Merry Widow Waltz & The Blue Danube. Right now I'll put my hopes with Eleanore. She is not as busy as my pal Bob.
The news about Tony was swell. I do hope he gets into a college on the east coast. No doubt if he does he will get that leave he has been waiting for.
I don't want to forget to thank you for the "Dear Buddy" strip. I do enjoy them & it seems that everyone else does too.
Did Grandma get the letter I sent her? I hope so.
I had every intention of writing quite a few letters today but such is not the case. It is almost 5 PM now & it's quite hard to write here at night.
Everything is well down here. I am as ever in very good health and higher in spirits than ever before. Hoping this letter finds you all the same.
I will try to write at least a v-mail to Eleanor right now before I don't get a chance for a long time.
Regards & Love to all.
Love,
Frank

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 78

Co. "A" STAR Unit 3902
U. of Idaho
Moscow
Sept. 3, 1943
Letter 78
Rec'd --

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It's Friday morning (during study period) and I can't say that anything new has happened.
I washed quite a few pieces of clothes last nite after study. It's pretty easy washing in a place like this because your clothes don't get so dirty like they do at a regular army camp. But the water is hard here. It's the hardest I ever saw. And it even smells half of the time. But we are getting use to it so it's not so bad although we don't drink much of it because it isn't so refreshing.
I told you last week that on the way coming back from Spokane, DiFranza & I met two girls. Well we didn't expect to be here this weekend (and we still don't know) but if we do stay here we will probably go to Lewiston to see them tomorrow. They seemed pretty nice and I think we can have a lot of fun. I tell you about it if we go.
I got a letter from Mable (Sect. at J. Thatcher) and she gave me all the dope about the place. She writes a nice letter.
Yesterday, instead of going to calisthenics, DiFranza and I took a walk around the countryside and took pictures (his camera). We started to walk up one of the hills and the further up we got the more beautiful it got. The golf course looked like a velvet blanket. We passed a few farms and took a couple of pictures of the cows, etc. I hope they come out. I would like to have them for the scrapbook. They'll be nice to look at in the future.
I can't think of anything else right now. I'll write soon. Until then I hope you are all in the best of health and very happy.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 77

9/1/43
Letter 77
Rec'd 114-115

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I think things are going to happen around here pretty soon as there are a lot of rumors flowing around here. Of course you can't believe the rumors but something is bound to happen.
We are pretty happy today as one of our buddies was accepted today in the advanced group. You see you have to under 22 to get into basic and he is 27 so he had to make the advanced. So they came to a conclusion. His marks weren't as high as they should be so they let him take the tests over & he just got word today that he made out better than they expected him to do. His name is Delaney. He is married and lives in St. Louis. When we were back at McChord Field his wife had a baby and he got an emergency furlough. He's a swell guy.
You probably have received a letter from Borella. He told me he wrote to you. He is at Washington State College. I told you about him being sent there. Well he feels pretty disgusted & I don't blame him. They are giving him an 8 day furlough and they want to give him an extra 3 day pass to get home. So he doesn't know what he is going to do. I told you that I was getting a furlough after my first term.
I hope they give us more than 8 days if we are out here some place. We'll just have to wait & see & hope for the best.
I got a letter from Elfrieda and she said she couldn't write a lot because she was all choked up. She was so happy that you sent her the present. She said she'll never forget what you all have done for her. And if I know Ele, she means it.
It's been damp and and cool all week already. I have my woolen O.P.s on and my flight jacket.
I'll write again shortly. I am fine & in the best of health. Hope you are all O.K. too. Until then I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. I forgot to answer the letters. I thought there was something missing. I received the card from Grandma with the stamps and they just came in time. Thank Grandma again for me. Between you and I mom I don't read half of her letters. I just look & see if there is anything about Grandma in them or anything that's important. It's strictly off the record. As long as we both feel the same way about it I thought I would mention it. But don't say anything to her.
You can still address the letters P.F.C. until I'm shipped. Maybe you can pick up a tube of shaving cream & send it along with the rest of the stuff. I won't need it for a while yet but by the time I'm shipped I will need it. Good bye now. Love,

T

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 76

Co. "A" STAR Unit 3902
U. of Idaho, Moscow
8/30/43
Letter 76
Rec'd 112 & 113

Dear Mom, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Well here it is another Monday and I'm sill here. But I did have a swell weekend. DiFranza & I went to visit Spokane. It's about 70 miles N.W. of here. We left at 4 o'clock. We took a bus & got in Spokane at 7 o'clock. We headed first to the U.S.O. to get a bite to eat. After we ate a band came in, so we stayed there. And boy that band was good. I think it's the best I heard since I'm in the army. And all the girls could dance here. There was was no question about that. The dance was over at 11 o'clock, little did we realize we didn't have a place to sleep. All the dormitories were filled up. We asked a sailor where we could get a place to stay. He said he didn't know, but if we couldn't get a place we could sleep with him. Well that's where we ended up. It was the funniest thing. The three of us in that bed. We couldn't toss & turn like we wanted to and I woke up about 10 times and the sailor said he fell out of bed once. We were so restless we got up at 8:30. We went to the service men's center and had coffee and cake for breakfast and we also took a shower and polished our shoes. Boy those service centers are swell. I guess we won't know what to do without them. We walked around a little and a car came up beside the curve and asked us if we would like to go to some church. He would take us to any church we wanted to go.
They operated through the U.S.O. It almost knocked me over. It was the first time I saw that before. But we didn't go because we had to catch a 12:30 bus back to Moscow and we still had to eat and we didn't know where the church would be. We got the bus and as we were coming back it started to rain. But it was still a nice trip. Boy and what nice scenery. Hill, hills & some more hills. But as we got closer to Spokane the hills got bigger and the pine trees got bigger. It was further up north. Also coming back on the bus we met a young nurse and we talked to her all the way back. She was nice. She came from Lewiston about 40 miles south of Moscow. We had a swell weekend. And DiFranza met a buddy of his from his home town at the U.S.O. at Spokane, and boy were they happy to see each other. Before DiFranza came into the army he used to color postcards and every time we go some place we run across cards that he colored before he came into the army. I'll enclose a card that he did and if you run across any cards with Tichnor Bros. on them you can bet that he did them. He comes from Boston, Mass.
Last night I received 6 letters in mail call. Two cards, one from Ann & one from Mom & Pop. Boy they were swell thanks. I received a letter from Ma, 2 from Anita, and a letter from Elfrieda.
I am so glad Boby is giving you such a swell time ma. And I'm glad you all are having a swell time. Boy did my heart sink when you told me about losing Grandma. I can just imagine how everybody felt especially Grandma. I just can't explain how I felt, wow!
I am so glad you were so surprised about the war bond. Every time I had a few extra dollars I sent Elfrieda it and she saved them for me. I sent her the rest so she could get it off her hands before she got married. She's a good kid. That is a swell present you sent Elfrieda. I just know she will like it an awful lot. She liked mine an awful lot too. As long as she is happy.
I wish you would send the pictures ma. You can wait with the paper. It will be forwarded if I'm shipped. They have a pretty good system here.
I am fine and I hope everybody is ok too. I'll close now and until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony