Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele

Sept. 7/1944
Thursday

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I am at the U.S.O. in Los Angeles and have a few hours before the bus leaves back to camp.  I actually got my 3 day pass so I went to Long Beach (about 20 minutes from here).  I got down there about 8 o'clock Tues night and went to one of the dances & guess who I met.  Remember the record I sent home I mentioned going to a dance with Betty [?]?  Well she was there and we certainly wore ourselves out jitterbugging.  We had a good time.  I certainly slept well after that workout at the American Legion Dormitory.  I got up pretty late also on Wed. morning.  I wanted to go swimming in the afternoon but it was just a little bit too cold for swimming.  So I went to a show.  I saw two old pictures "Across the Pacific" and some other picture as I seen all the others they had back at camp.  
At night I went to the U.S.O. dance and had a swell time.  I slept at the same dormitory last night also.  Then as soon as I got up this morning I came right to Los Angeles.  After eating (hotcakes) I went to the show again and saw "Going My Way" with Bing Crosby and boy was it good.  I really enjoyed it an awful lot.
Boy it's sweltering here in the city.  It's really hot and the sun is shining brightly.  How is the weather in N.Y.?
I feel a bit lonely being I am all alone.  I usually come down with someone of the boys.  But only a few left and I didn't know them too well.
I'll close now hoping everybody is in the best of health.  Will write soon again.

Your Loving Soldier Boy

Tony

P.S.  I sent a package with a few letters and my ring etc.  Just a few odds & ends. T    

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 141

Aug. 6, 1944
Sunday Night
#141
Rec'd #206

Dear Mom, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Well here is the end of another week but this time it wasn't to prosperous as far as good times is concerned, but there is no reason why I should go out every weekend anyway.  Sat. night I (last night) went into Lompoc (that's a small town about 10 miles from camp) just to get out of camp I guess.  One of the boys and myself (he's a Brooklyn boy also) went to confession in a cute little church in Lompoc.  Then we bowled a game and then spent a few hrs at a dance.  It wasn't very exciting but we did pass the time away.  I sent you a little booklet from the U.S.O. about the town which will be good for your scrapbook.
Today we had to go out on the range all day.  So I missed mass.  I'll have to wait until next week to go to communion.  The capt. promised us off all day next Sat. because we went out today.  That ain't so bad, is it?
I received the four hankies and mom they're swell.  You say you hope I like them enough to send them to her, it never occurred to me for one split second not to send them to her.  How could she help but like them.  I sent them to her but she didn't get them as yet.  I also send Dad a carton of cigarettes for his birthday.
I hope Grandma can sell the house.  It gives her too many worries.  Right ma?  Give Grandma my love and tell her I will write real soon.
My writing isn't so good as I have a little bandage on my pinky and it makes it a bit uncomfortable when writing.  It's just a little sore.
I'm glad everybody remarks about your locks ma that's an excellent sign that you're picking up weight and getting along fine.  I certainly can tell that from the picture you sent me.  It's a honey.
What's new with everybody & everything?  Did Ann hear from Frank yet?  Did Bob hear from Al again? etc.  
I'll write soon again until then I remain

Your Loving Solider Boy

Tony

P.S.  I hope Sandy is getting to be a better boy.  How was he since you last wrote?

  
 

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 140

Aug. 1, 1944
 Tues. night
#140
Rec'd 205

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I wanted to write last night but we had some work to do so I had to put it off until tonight.  Sat. the battalion had a convoy of G.I. trucks going to Santa Monica (about 18 miles from Los Angeles, right on the coast like Long Beach).  So I went along as we didn't need any money for transportation & no money needed to a place to sleep as they provided for it.  They took us to a place called the U.S. Army Recreational Camp.  They had tents there like we had a J.B. and a big restaurant & dance hall right in the heart of Santa Monica.  It was really swell.  They had a dance there and I had a nice time.  Sunday after 12 o'clock mass (we went to Hollywood to go to mass) we went to Earl Carrol's Theater & Night Club.  They had dancing from 2 - 5 in the afternoon on the stage.  They didn't have any show.  It's really a swell place.
We had an inspection yesterday and we were told to get rid of all our excess stuff so I put it in the valise and sent it home yesterday.  I got a field jacket in there which was excess and Ele can wear it.  It just has to be cleaned a little.  I think she will like it.  Let me know.  I have shirts in there also which you just can put away.  I also got a 11 armored book in there which they were selling here.  It's since the div. was started.  I thought you would like to have it.  Also cards I got in L.A. and the last minute I got the banner & cards from Helen so I put this in on top.
I wanted to go to see the mission at Santa Barbara but we had to go back with the convoy so it would have been too much traveling so I ope we can go next week.  That is one of the missions in the string from San Diego to San Francisco that was built by Junipero Serra about 200 years ago.  One of the cards I sent home has them all listed.
I'll enclose a money order in this letter for $30.  Maybe I'll be able to send more later.  Take out what I owe you and anything that you need at any time.
Boy ma you look swell on that picture.  I can see by the picture that you are improving tremendously without a doubt.  And that hairdo is super.  It makes me so happy ma.
Yes, Grandma should go to the doctor.  I hope you do persuade her.  Let me know.  Give Grandma my love & kisses and tell Grams I'll try to write tomorrow.
Aunt Anna writes me that Grandma went with her to a concert & also over to N.Y. to buy a dress.  It sounds very unusual.  Doesn't it ma?
I got a swell letter from Bob and I'll try to answer it as soon as possible.
I got cigarettes for Pop's birthday and will try to get them off as soon as possible also.
I still hear from Helen about every other day.  I'll enclose a picture you can look at and send back or keep it if you like.  O.K.  Helen is on the right her sister Mary on left.  [below]

I'll write real soon again.  Until then take good care of yourself or should I say keep up the good work.  Until then

Your Loving Soldier Boy

Tony

 

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 132

6/6/44 
Letter No. 132
Rec'd  195

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

This is no longer your boy reporting because I am 21 now.  I sure wish I could have spent my birthday home but....it sure seems like our minds work together.  You said if I go to L.A. I should have a drink on you - well that's exactly what I did.  I was very fortunate to get to L.A. on my birthday.  In fact I got a 3 day pass - Fri. Sat. & Sun.  We got the highest mark in our test (first platoon) and we were all awarded a 3 day pass by the Col.  Wasn't that swell.  I'll enclose the order.
We went to Long Beach (about 20 miles from L.A. and had a swell time.  I looked up Dorothy Little (Col. daughter) but she moved back to Ohio, her homestate.  She told me the week before that she may have gone.  Well it was nice knowing her anyway.  We arrived at L.A. about 4 Fri. afternoon.  After getting a hotel room & ate we sent to a dance.  There I met a girl named Betty Kellough of Long Beach native of N. Dakota I believe, a jitterbug of course.  Long Beach is a pretty nice place.  It reminded me of Coney Island as it had rides and concessions just like Coney Island.  Sat. afternoon we sent swimming.  At least we laid on the beach.  The water was too cold.  I got a nice sun burn.  In fact I still feel it a little.  I smeared Noxzema on before I went to bed.  I had a little trouble getting to sleep though as the fellow I was sleeping with was a little restless.  It was a lot of fun though.  Sat. night we went to a dance at the Municipal Auditorium.  (A picture of it is in the cards I sent).  Horace Heidt & his Musical Knights was the band and it was very good.  Though you know that of all the people you talk to, the majority of them come from other states.  In fact I don't think I talked to a real Californian yet.  We had a pretty good time all in all.  I'm glad I got out on my birthday anyway.  And thank for the drink ma.  
The watch keeps perfect time and were I was in L.A. I bought a band (leather) for it.  It is a safety band.  Even if it comes off on one side it will not fall off my wrist.  It will give it added protection.  How's that?
I'm glad you like the year book from U. of O.  How did you like my pictures?  You might have known my picture would be taken jitterbugging, huh?
Last Wed. we went before the board I told you about.  I told him I was a draftsman and gave him all the dope.  He said he could do what he can.  So I'll just have to wait.  If I get transferred, O.K.  If not, O.K. too.  I'm not going to worry about it.  Right?
I got a batch of swell birthday cards.  Thanks a lot.  And Grandma put air mail stamps in hers again.  Wasn't that swell?
Tiny sent me a swell wallet for my birthday with her picture in it.  It is real nice.  She is getting along pretty good.  I hope you all are still writing.  
I got letters from Frank & D'Angelo.  Frank praises my outfit very much.  D'Angelo told me something that he couldn't write for a long time but it's O.K. now.  He was in the Kiska campaign.  He now has a ribbon with one battle star on it.  I'm sure glad he is O.K.
A while ago we had a retreat parade and one of the lieutenants took pictures.  I got some made and will send them in another envelope.
I am in the best of health and hope you all are too.  We are going out on another problem for a couple of days.  I'll try to write as soon as possible.
Say they finally invaded.  Boy what news.  I sure do hope they don't meet much opposition.
I'll close now until then

Your Loving Soldier Boy (Man),

Tony

xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Dear Mom, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 131

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. B - 22 Tank Bn. A.P.O. 261
Camp Cooke, Calif.
 
5/29/44
Letter No. 131
Rec'd  193-194

Dear Mom, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,


It's Monday and the start of a new week, but boy I had a swell weekend.  They arranged a special convoy of girls from Los Angeles, Long Beach & Santa Monica.  About 110 showed up for the whole battalion.  They arrived about 7:30PM Sat.  We took them into chow and then we had a dance.  We had a swell time.  Remember at Wash (McChord Field) I met a girl who was a captain's daughter?  Well this time I met a girl who is a colonel's daughter, and has 4 brothers in service.  Her name is Dorothy Little.  She is a real nice girl and we had a lot of fun.  Then we had a midnight snack at the mess hall & then we took them to a special barracks that was set up for them.  Sunday morning after church the girls rode in the tanks and got a real kick out of it.  Then after chow we had a tea dance until 4 o'clock when they had to leave.  We had a swell time and she was very intelligent (college girl) and very sociable.  If I can get to L.A. next week I will go down to see her.  I'll enclose a program of the schedule for the weekend.
The watch keeps perfect time and I got so many compliments already.  It's really swell.
The cherries, candy & cookies are really swell.  And delicious.  The flashlight comes in very handy.  
In my last letter I was so excited I forgot to tell you about that interview.  Well we didn't have it as it was called off to a later date.  As soon as we have it I'l let you know.
I am glad you are feeling fine.  Working around the house is a certain perfect sign.  I'm so glad.  And especially when everybody says you're gaining weight.
I'm glad Grandma is getting along OK and her garden also and send her a special kiss & thanks for the cherries.  Yum!  Yum!
I'm glad Ele will have to wait until she is 16 as it would be nice for her to go to summer school to take extra subjects.  What do you say?
Tiny is getting along pretty good although she is doing a bit of cramming for the exams.
I am in the best of health and everything is coming along fine.
I'll write as soon as possible and until then, I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,

Tony

P.S.  Keep up the good work ma.  You'll be in the pink in quicker time than you think.

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 130

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. B - 22 Tank Bn. A.P.O. 261
Camp Cooke, Calif.
 
5/23/44 
Letter No. 130
Rec'd  193

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,


I really don't know how to start this letter, I mean I don't know exactly what to say.  I received the package today and when I opened it my eyes just popped out of my head.  Gosh the watch was really something!  I told you all to get one not so expensive.  I just don't know what to say.  It's the perfect thing.  Waterproof, shockproof, non magnetic, sweep hand, illuminates in the night.  Gosh.  And the cherries.  Grandma always comes thru don't she.  And the candy & cookies & flashlight and stamps.  Even the card was so pretty.  And in the envelope with the stamps it had the card from American Legion.  It's all too much to put in words of thanks and appreciation.
Pretty soon, if not already, you'll receive the year book I subscribed to at the University.  Remember?  The University sent a copy to the library here at camp and I looked at it last night.  I got my picture in 3 times.  Can you imagine.  On page 128 Anita & I are dancing (jitterbugging).  That's when she came down that weekend.  Remember.  On page 133 Tiny & I are dancing at the barn dance they had at the sorority house.  You'll find me in the group picture under section P5 Section 1.  Tiny is in the picture on page 76 with Gertrude Lawrence with the Phi Betas.  She also appears with the house pictures (Casablanca Lodge).  She looks good don't she?  I thought the book came real swell.  It's a swell [?] also.
In my last letter I think I forgot to tell you that I saw the picture "Gaslight" with Charles Boyer & Ingrid Bergman.  Boy don't miss it ma.  It will keep you on the edge of your seat.  and they both played excellent parts.  I also saw "The Story of Dr. Wassell" with Gary Cooper & Laraine Day Sunday night as I said.  It was real good & very colorful.  It's a true story.  I wish you see it.
The weather hear had calmed down a bit and it isn't so windy.
I hope you write Tiny again and keep the chain rolling.  I got a letter from her today and she is real busy with her finals.  You can wish her a lot of luck in them.
I want to thank you all again.  It's so swell to know you have a real family behind you.  Just imagine in 11 days I'll be a man.  21 years old.  Gee whiz.  I'll have to close my letters "Your Loving Soldier Man."  Will write soon again.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,

Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 129

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. B - 22 Tank Bn. A.P.O. 261
Camp Cooke, Calif.
 
5/21/44 
Letter No. 129
Rec'd  192

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It is Sunday afternoon and the weather is misty out.  Since I last wrote on Wed. we have been quite busy.  On Thursday the whole Co., in fact the whole battalion, went out on a problem and came back on Friday.  It was pretty cold sleeping out on the field but our blankets did a pretty good job keeping us warm.  Before we left on Thurs. they had a special mass said so we wouldn't miss going on Ascension Thurs. 
Fri. night we had a Co. dance.  Most of the boys weren't going to go because we got back late from the motor pack after cleaning up our tanks but we had a pretty good turn out.  The officer got about 30 girls from Lompoc.  And the chow they had was really swell.  The cooks did a swell job for a chance.
Sat. & today I have guard duty.  I have it till 5 tonight and then I'll probably go to the show on the post and see "The Story of Dr. Wassell" with Gary Cooper, in technicolor.  I'll let you know how it is if I see it.  It's my time off right now so I got time to write a few letters.
I went to church this morning and the Chaplain gave a very good sermon. I received a letter from Mable, the Secretary at the office, and she sent me the pictures they took of me when I was down there.  I'll enclose them in this letter.  Show them to Grandma also.  OK.
I also got swell letters from Helen Riley of St. Louis & Anita from Tacoma, & Tiny of Eugene.  Sounds like a string of pearls doesn't it.  
I got your letter & also one from Ele.  Both were swell.  I'm glad you got such nice presents for Mother's Day.  I'll write Ele soon again.
I am going to enclose a dollar for Grandma to put some flowers on Aunt Josies grave.  Time certainly does fly.
I'll write again soon.  How do you feel ma?  Are you still taking those pills? Let me know.
Sandy may be a pest ma but you love him don't you?  I'm glad he's feeling well again.
Hope you all are feeling well.  Send Grandma my love.  

Your Loving Soldier Boy,

Tony

 

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 126

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. B - 22 Tank Bn. A.P.O. 261
Camp Cooke, Calif.
 
5/7/44 
Letter No. 126
Rec'd  --

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It is Sun. night and another week is about to start.  Just another one.  And in 2 more days it will be 16 months.  I'm in the army, but just a month ago I was home.  Gosh time flies.
To start again where I left off Fri. night I got out of G.I. the barracks and went to a U.S.O. traveling show (from camp to camp).  It was very good.  Singers, dancers, etc.
Sat. was a glorious day. (I had K.P.)  Well I didn't want to go any place anyway.  But Sat. night there was a battalion convoy (trucks) to a dance in a small town about 30 miles from camp.  It wasn't bad but I didn't enjoy myself much.  It seems that I feel I want to be with Tiny all the time.  I had such good times with her that I'm just content to think about them.  Well the war won't last forever.
This morning I went to church 11 o'clock mass.  It was a good sermon.  This afternoon I wrote a few letters and tonight I may go to the show if they got a good show.
Tiny is having a bit of a job making up a lot of work otherwise she is coming along alright.  Her brother is over in Italy (He is a captain, just made it about a month ago) and may come home this month.  Isn't that swell.  I told her not to count on it though.
I also got a swell letter from Joe.  He was very apologetic for not writing you etc. but ma he puts it in such a manner.  I'll never meet a buddy like him, ma.  I'll send the letter home in a different letter after I answer it.  He's been shipped to a different battalion.  His address is:
PFC Joseph D'Angelo 32717232
H & S Co. 1397 Constr. Bn.
A.P.O. 957
c/o Postmaster San Francisco, Calif.
The weather is getting warmer but we get a few misty foggy days now and then.
I also got a rocket shell that the boys used for practice.  They are all sending them home so I will as soon as I get a chance.  It will make a nice lamp.  You'll have to use a little imagination.  I think it will make up pretty good though.  That will be for my future workshop.  That will be my first job.  So when you get it just put it some place until I come home.
I'll close now & I will write as soon as I get a chance.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,

Tony  

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 124

Anthony J. Curcio
Co. B - 22 Tank Bn. A.P.O. 261
Camp Cooke, Calif.
 
5/1/44 
Letter No. 124
Rec'd  183-185

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Well here it is Monday night and I got a few free minutes to write before it gets too late.  All last week we've been pretty busy that I couldn't find the slightest time to write.  Monday we had a problem which took all day and when we got in late at night we had to wash out fatigues so would be clean for the next day.  Tues. we had another problem and tues. night I was on guard duty.  Wed. (4/26/44) we worked on tanks all day and at night we went on a problem in the pouring rain.  There is always one thing we must do before we leave the tank, no matter where we are or what time it is and that is clean them up.  That's one thing I learned.  In that rain my watch got wet and now it won't run.  I told you I was going to send it home but I guess I didn't do it soon enough.  The only watch I can use here is a weatherproof, shockproof watch.  When I send it home I wish you get it fixed & then hold it for me OK?  Thurs. I got my other wisdom tooth pulled and he had to cut the gum but I didn't feel anything until the Novocaine wore off.  They gave me some pill to make me sleep & I felt so sleepy for the longest time.  He was a very good dentist and everything is fine now.  Fri. it was the same routine and in the night we had to clean the barracks.  Sat. I got that pass to Los Angeles I told you about and we got a chartered bus there and back.  We left camp about 1 o'clock PM and got there about 6:30 Sat. night.  The first place we went was the Hollywood Stagedoor Canteen.  And guess what?  Carole Landis came in and started to dance with all the service men.  They were all jitterbugging.  One dances for about 20 seconds and then another one cuts in.  So I cut in and danced with her.  But I didn't get much of a kick out of it as she seems just like another person.  But after all that's just what she is, another person.  Marsha Hunt was there also and she looks just like you see her in the pictures, as for Carole Landis, I don't think I would recognize her on the street, although she is very beautiful.   We went to the show after that and saw "Cover Girl."  It was very good.  We slept at the Hollywood High School.  If you look in the "Life" magazine (April 10) you will find more than I can tell about the Hollywood H.S.  We went to mass at the beautiful Blessed Sacrament church and it was a very good sermon.  After that we ate & then at 1 o'clock we went to the Lux Radio Playhouse and I got such a kick out of it.  It took me right back home because all those Monday nights we used to gather around the radio and listen to Lux programs were made so clear well you know what I mean.  It was a rehearsal for tonight's program broadcast all over the nation.  And I know that you would listen to the same thing I saw the day before.  It was "Appointment For Love."  The actors were Olivia De Havilland  & Paul Lukas.  I certainly hoped you wouldn't miss hearing it.  Let me know.  Boy Olivia De Havilland is just as she looks in pictures.  Gosh, she's cute.  Then after the program we went to the U.S.O. for a show.  And I saw Harry Revel the famous song writer.  I got his autograph and I am going to send it to Tiny as she would like it because of her musical background.  Shirley Temple & Ann Rutherford were supposed to be there but they never did show up.  We saw Judy London a movie star and Vince Barnett the famous comedian of picture and radio.  It was a swell show but we couldn't stay because we had to catch the 6 o'clock bus back to camp.  We got in about 1 o'clock last night.  Hollywood is certainly the place to see things and have a good time.  I only wish we had a little more time.  It's really the most beautiful place you ever saw.  I got cards and will send them home in the box with my watch.  While I was in Hollywood I sent you your Mother's day present and I also sent Grandma one.  I may not be able to send a card but I hope the present doe the trick.
I am so glad of the news of what the doctor said and I feel much better now.  It seems like a swell doctor.  I am also glad you are getting the sunshine (when it comes out).
About Eddie and what he said to his mother.  You asked me when I would say things like that when people were around.  Ma, I wouldn't say if people were around or not.  Things like that never enter my mind.  Just remember ma, you have a real son.  I don't think she has.  He isn't close to his mother like I am to you.  
Frank looks the same as he always did.  I think he look real good.
Tell Ele & Bob & Ann I will write when I get a little more time, OK.
In my last letter I asked for air mail stamps and the very next day I got some from Grandma.  Boy we certainly use mental telepathy don't we.  Thank Grandma an awful lot for me.  Tell Grandma I pray every night.  OK, Ma?
I got paid today and as soon as I can get a money order made out I will send some home.  There is a lot more I know there is to tell but I ant think of it all now and time is getting short and lights will be out before I know it.  Tiny is OK and writing frequently.  I also got a letter from Helen Riley from St. Louis.  She writes a swell letter.  I'll close now hoping everybody is in the best of health and very happy.  Tell Grandma I will write as soon as I get a chance.  OK.  Your Loving Soldier Boy,

Tony 

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele (Letter not numbered)

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

2/28/44
Letter No.
Rec'd 174

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It seems like we will be shipped sometime during the week of March 5. Where or to what we don't know as yet. We will still continue classes till March 4. We had all our G.I. tests on Fri. & Sat. Feb. 25 & 26. To us the term is finished but we still have to go to classes. Most of the fellows are reading books during their classes.
Over the weekend Tiny & I celebrated because it will probably be our last weekend together. Sat. we went to the show & saw "The Lodger" & "Career Girl." Both were pretty good. After that we went [to] a dance at the Eugene Hotel. They had about 14 couples there and we had a swell time swinging, etc. Sunday morning we went to church. After church we ate and then took a hike because it was an awful nice afternoon. (The sun was out for a change). At night we went to the Westminster House (like last week) to hear the forum again. This time they talked about "Higher Education." It was very interesting.
I am including pictures we finally was able to take. I hope you like them. In the near future you will probably receive a letter from Tiny. She said she was going to write to you. When she does I think it would be nice if you kept corresponding with here just like you do Joe & Frank. I wish Boby would also write to her too after Tiny writes to you.
I received a card from Grandma with air mail stamps. Please thank Grandma for me. I'd much rather say it in your letter as I usually do.
I also received a letter from Ele. As soon as I get a chance and I think I will in the near future I will write to her. I am glad she likes the bandana.
I remember once you said that I should hold on to the furlough money that you sent to me last time. Christmas came along and little things I sent home etc. added up. I figured by the time the program was over in June I would have made it up but the program was cut off all of a sudden and that leaves me with a hole in the bag. So ma I wish you would put about 75 dollars aside in case I do get my furlough after I get shipped. I'll pay it back in the future. I just wanted to let you know in advance. I hope things work out O.K.
I'll close now hoping you are all in the best of health and very happy.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

P.S. After looking at those pictures of Tiny you can see why I hate to leave here. You can tell by the expression on her face she is sweet and kind. And she is a person I'll never forget, and a friend I'll always have.

Dear Ma. Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 111

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

2/14/44
Letter No. 111
Rec'd --

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

It's Monday, Valentines Day, and time is certainly flying. I hope you all liked the valentines gifts.
Tiny and I had a pretty successful weekend. Tiny recovered from her sickness by Wed. and although she was a bit weak and tired she said she felt alright. By the end of the week she was fine. I also got rid of my cold. Well Sat. night there was a house dance at the sorority house but at the same time there was a dance at Gerlinger Hall and they were going to have a jitterbug contest. So we stayed at the house dance for awhile and then I told Tiny to put on a skirt and sweater on instead of the silk dress she had on and we went over to the dance. We got in the jitterbug contest and there were only two couples left on the floor. So as soon as the dance was over I went over to the judge and said that the other couple should have the first prize. We could have gotten first prize tho but the judge was a captain from our unit and the other couple was civilians so I thought it best that way. There wasn't any prize anyway. Tiny is pretty good as she wasn't a jitterbug until I made her one for she just knows the steps I taught her. And she's so light I can swing her all over the place. On Sunday she was very tired and a bit sore. But it was a lot of fun. We also got our picture taken at the house dance, as soon as I get it I will send it home.
On Sunday we went to 9:30 mass as usual. In the afternoon we took pictures but we couldn't finish because it started to rain cats & dogs. I hope they turn out tho because the sun wasn't so bright. You know, it doesn't shine much around here. Then we went into the museum on campus. It was nice but I don't like museums so much. Then we listened to some records (not swing) we were so tired we thought we would just sit there and listen to symphony records.
I received the pictures and package. The pictures are swell. Tiny liked them an awful lot too. The package was swell too. You can thank grandma anyway for the cherries ma. OK. Thanks for the letter, Bob. It's good to hear from you.
Those pictures really are swell. Everybody looks so healthy and happy. I'm so glad. And the little pooch is O.K. I hope you keep him ma?
I got quite a kick out of Clinton coming up to see Ele. That's really sharp.
I thought that poem was pretty cute. I'll close now wishing you all the best of health and hope you all are very happy.

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 107

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

1/18/44
Letter No. 107
Rec'd 162

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

Well here it is another week. Boy is this term going fast. It's just about half over already. And as per usual I had another good weekend. They had a swell set up here on Sat. From 5:45 to 2:45 they had a dance called the nickel hop and it was held in all the sorority houses. 3 dances for 5 cents. They wanted to raise money for a plaque to be erected for the boy in the service from the University. I believe they made out quite successful. Right after the nickel hop they had a basketball game which was pretty good. We won 52-33. And right after the basketball game they had a dance & the band from our company played and boy they were good. I'm making a jitterbug out of Tiny. I guess you've heard that before. We had a swell time.
Sunday morning we went to 9:00 mass and in the afternoon we went to the show and saw "Salute to the Marines." It was very good and I think I saw Frank. What part of the picture was he in? I want to see if I am right. We also saw "Redhead from Manhattan." It was pretty good also.
I got another letter from Frank and one from D'Angelo. They were both swell letters. Frank & Joe seem to be OK. Joe said he received your letters. He is in the Hawaii Islands and couldn't write any sooner.
I just found out that the old outfit I came from (the 1875 Eng.) is overseas.
I am glad Grandma is feeling better. I hope she takes it easy for awhile. But if I know Grandma I don't think she will.
So the dog is giving you a little trouble huh. Well ma, be patient. As soon as he gets used to things he'll be more friendly etc.
The weather out here is just like spring. I can't get over it. We didn't even have to wear our overcoats yet.
Say ma in my bottom drawer you'll find a "tech" handbook of 1937. The little blue book with all the pictures of Brooklyn Technical High School. Will you please send it to me. OK. And in my album there are negatives of the house my boss designed with the circular staircase. You know. Well I should like to show them to Tiny so will you please send me a set of them. OK.
I am in the best of health and I hope you all are too. I will close now so until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele Letter No. 106

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

1/10/44
Letter No. 106
Rec'd 160, 161, 161

Dear Ma, Pa, Barb, Ann & Ele,

I had another successful weekend. They had a formal dance in the gym (MacArthur Court) and I took Tiny and we had a swell time. She wore a rose colored formal this time. I think the looks good in just about everything she wears. Everything went swell during the evening but just before the night was over we had a little accident. We were walking home and we just got up to the sorority house when Tiny slipped on a piece of ice. (It frosts pretty easy around here there is so much humidity in the air). And she hurt her backside. All day Sunday she was limping around but it's getting better. As long as it isn't serious.
Sunday morning we went to church. In the afternoon we went to Gerlinger Hall and she played for me again.
I got a letter from Sonny (Fio) and he was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant. Boy was I happy to [hear] that. He won't get his wings until he completes his flying hours but he's got his rating. It certainly made me feel happy.
I also received a letter from Frank and he said he received my V. letter on Christmas Day. I was glad to hear that. Everything seems to be going all right with him.
I was inducted into the army a year ago yesterday. Gosh it seems like ages.
I got pretty good marks in my tests in the first marking period. I got 80 in math, 84 in chem., 90 in physics, B in Geog., 90 in hist. and the rest I didn't find out yet.
I certainly got a laugh when you explain how you tried to give the dog a pill. Gosh it was funny.
I got a letter from Elfrieda today. She doesn't say too much as she is busy getting ready to move when her husband goes into service.
I got two letters from Sister. I am glad everybody liked all their presents so much. It really made me feel good.
I don't think I mentioned it but I got the card from Mrs. Hall telling me she was going to make the Novena for me. I want you to thank her ever so much.
I am glad Grandma is better only she shouldn't work so hard. You are right. She should take a rest until she is stronger. Send Grandma my love & kisses.
So you all had snow in N.Y. huh! We still didn't get any here. I am in the best of health and hope you all are also. Until my next letter I remain

Your Loving Soldier Boy,
Tony

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 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. 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. 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. 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.