War and Family: Letters Home

Welcome to the 100th episode War and Family Letters Home! This episode is about Cpl. Julian Andrew Nichols of the 483rd Engineering Maintenance Co.  Cpl Nichols served in both the European and Pacific theatre of war.  Join me to hear his letters and his activities before, during and after the war!  The best part?  Cpl Nichols letters are going home to his Granddaughter!This podcast shares letters written home by U.S. servicemen and women during World War II. My mission is simple: to return World War II history to families—one letter, and one story at a time.

Welcome to War and Family: Letters Home. I’m your host, Lauren Muise. This podcast is built around letters — real letters — written home by U.S. servicemen and women during World War II. My mission is simple: to return that history to families, one letter and one story at a time. Each letter is a time capsule — a voice carried forward from a foxhole, a barracks bunk, a ship at sea, or a field hospital half a world away. And I hope that someone listening today will hear a familiar name…Or recognize a hometown… and reach out. Because these letters belong home. Maybe this letter… is meant for you.Pvt Phy served bravely in the 424th anti-tank battalion – the type of unit often overlooked in WW2 history. They were specialized, supporting and rarely in the spotlight unless something went terribly wrong.  The battalion’s story is not one of sweeping victory, but of duty under impossible conditions.  Anti-tank units were the last line between advancing armor and vulnerable infantry.  In the Ardennes, that line bent and in many places it broke – but not without resistance.  Their experience is a reminder that history is often shaped not just by triumphs, but by moments of shock, endurance, and survival.

Victory Pettus Miles was born in Gray Summit Missouri.  he served in the 315th Engineer combat Battalion, it's motto: "We Make"   S/Sgt Miles served in the European theatre and was part of the first wave of landings at Omaha Beach.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Pharmacist’s Mate First Class James Francis Murphy served where he was needed most—aboard the USS Piedmont, standing ready to save lives in the shadow of war. He survived the dangers of the Pacific, returned home, and now rests among heroes in Arlington National Cemetery.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Pvt John Louis Thousand and Pvt Walter Frederick Thousand were from Cedar Rapids, Iowa and served together in the European theatre.  The brothers stayed together through training, and fighting in the Battle of the Bulge all the way to central Germany and occupation duties when the war ended.   Please join me to hear their stories of brotherhood.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

M/Sgt Phllip H. Blinn served in the XIX Corp., US Army in the European Theater. His Mom and Phillip's stepfather, were working for the US Army in Honolulu Hawaii and were present during the bombing of Pearl Harbor, his mom receiving a medal for valor. Please join me to listen to the story of this Mother and Son, and their contributions to the war effort.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Robert Atlas Ingram of Cheraw South Carolina served in the 793rd Bomb Squadron of the 468th Bombardment Group. He was stationed in India, China, and later on the Island of Tinian in the Mariana Islands. If you know of the Ingram family of Cheraw SC, please contact me @ [email protected] WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Pvt William E. Frye served in the US Army later in the war, helping to repair rail tracks and depots to move supplies forward to support the troops as they moved into Germany.Pvt Frye was friends with Pfc Roy Clark, featured in a previous episode. During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

In this first episode of 2026 we will hear an amazing story about courage, American grit and survival. PFC Fritchman, of Bethlehem PA, served in WW2 and was captured by the Germans in February 1945. He was a POW for 73 days at Stalag-IXB at Bad Orb. Here is first hand account of capture and liberation through newspaper accounts of the events. What if an ancestor who served in World War II—someone you never even met—had written letters you never knew existed… and suddenly they surfaced in the world?That’s what this podcast is about: real letters written home by U.S. servicemen and women during World War II. My mission is simple: to bring these World War II voices back to the families they belong to—one letter, one story at a time. Facebook Page: War and Family Letters HomeEmail: [email protected]

Pvt. James R. Clark served in WW2 in the US Army, 110th infantry. James was from Ligonier PA, and was with the 110th at the battle of Bastogne.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

SP 1/c Bernard J. Ward, S1/c Thomas P. Ward, Pvt Edward J. Ward, Pvt Robert F. Ward. Four brothers - 3 overseas and 1 in service stateside. The brothers were from Hartford CT - their letters show how close the brothers were and their bond. Here their letters and their stories of serving in WW2 - so very far from homeDuring WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Edward J. Baptista was from E. Boston MA and served in the US Army Air Corp. He enlisted in January 1941, and was sent to the Philippines, arriving just weeks before the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Two days after Pearl Harbor, Japan attacked the Philippines, and Cpl Baptista found himself captured and on the Bataan death march. Cpl Baptista died July of 1942, at the age of 20. Please hear his story and his letters home while he was stationed in the US. If you know of the Baptista family, or his sister's family the MacRae's, please contact me - we need this heroes letters returned home.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Glenn & Grover Allen, brothers from Haverhill MA served in WW2 in different branches of the military, one in Europe and one in the Pacific. Their letters were forwarded to me by Mr. Boyd of Georgia, hoping for their stories to be told and perhaps having the letters returned to family or appreciated by their home town of Haverhill MA. Please have a listen to their stories! I will be contacting veterans organizations in Haverhill MA shortly.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Robert D. Eltham served in the US Army. He was from Lorain Ohio, but lived in New Smyrna Beach Florida from 1950-1980. Welcome to War and Family, Letters Home!What if a letter your Grandfather or Grandmother wrote during WW2 - a letter you never knew existed - suddenly turned up in the world? That's what this podcast is about: real letters written home by US WW2 servicemen and women. Each one is a time capsule, carrying the voice of someone far from home - written from a fox hole, training camp, or a ship! My mission is simple: to bring these WW2 voices back to the families they belong to - one letter and one story at a time. And who knows! Maybe today you will hear a familar name or place - Mayyyybe this letter was meant for you !

Cpl Francis J. Cody was from Harrison NJ. He was stationed at Fort Benning where he worked to train new recruits to the paratrooper forces. What if a letter your grandfather wrote—one you never even knew existed—suddenly turned up in the world?That’s what this podcast is about: real letters written home by U.S. servicemen and women during World War II. Each one is a time capsule, carrying the voice of someone far from home, writing from a foxhole, a bunk, a ship, or a field hospital.My mission is simple: to bring these voices back to the families they belong to—one letter, one story at a time. And who knows? Maybe today, you’ll hear a familiar name or a place. Maybe this letter was meant for you.

M/M Charles Arthur Jensen was from Salt Lake City Utah. Before being called up he worked at the Utah Ordance Plant. M/M Jensen's ship served in the Pacific bringing Marines ashore, taking screening positions of convoys and chasing subs. His ship SC-997 was part of the secret Project Hula at the end of the war. During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Ralph Mebane Hunt of Pinnacle North Carolina was part of the 352 Fighter Sq., 353 Fighter Group. He was stationed in England and was part of the Mighty 8th Division. Please listen to his story and his letter home to his Mom written in September of 1944. These men and these stories need to be remembered. If you should happen to know of Mr. Hunt's family, please pass along my podcast to them! I would love nothing better than to return this letter to his family

Russel Eugene Anderson was born in Chicago IL and served in WW2 aboard the USS President Hayes in the Pacific. The President Hayes was an attack transport and was a part of the Battle of Leyte and Okinawa - they also provided emergency assistance in the bay of Manus when the USS Mount Hood exploded due to an accident. During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

This week’s episode is going to be a little different. So stay with me as I share the origin story of War and Family Letters Home I often get asked what made me begin this podcast – so I thought I’d take you all back to where War and Family: Letters Home really began – to a wooden box in an antique store – to two of the dearest friends I was blessed to have in my life... And in doing so, I want to re-tell you the story of Lt. Phillip Ralph Harris — a U.S. Navy pilot who was killed in action on May 9, 1945.

PFC Nickolas J. Pappas, of Wilkes-Barre PA, Served in the 1878th US Army Aviation Engineers during WW2 in the Pacific. He was part of the efforts on Saipan and Okinawa. His younger brother John served in the US Marine Corp and was wounded in the battle of Iwo Jima.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Corp Andreas was born in Illinois but registered for WW2 while leaving in Terre Haute Indiana. he was part of the 3789th Q.M. Truck Co. His letter is part of the series talking about friends of Lt. James Wisby of Morgantown IN.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Corp. Albert W. Chase, US Army. We catch up with Corp Chase in New Guinea after he arrived at a replacement depot on Goodenough Island.ALSO! The family of Russel I. Armstrong, who was the subjiect of a podcast back in August of 2024 came across the podcast while doing some research on him - I am happy to report that Pvt Armstrongs letters have gone home!During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

T/5 Justin Floyd Morgan of Morgantown IN, served in the US Army Aircorp in Europe. He served in the 3576th QM Unit.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

James R. "Ducky" Bond of Morgantown IN, served in the Pacific Islands. During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at and help me get the letters home

Albert J. Vivier was from Massachusetts and served int eh 235th QM Truck Company in WW2. We catch up with him while serving in Italy, helping to get supplies to the forward troops. During WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

Donald Dean Eberling of Nashua Iowa served in the 45th Infantry Division, 179th Infantry Regiment. He joined the 179th as they began their march towards Munich and was part of the liberation of Dachau.During WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

Pvt Orin J. Wheeler, US Army served in the Cannon Co of the 7th Infantry. At just 20 years old he ws part of the Battle of Anzio in Italy.Pvt Wheeler hailed from my home state of Massachusetts, and returned their after the war to raise his family.During WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

T/Sgt Beedle served in the 560th and 562nd Signal Air Warning Corp in the European Theatre. He was also a radio technician that worked on the Bell-X1 aircraft, which Capt. Chuck Yeager flew to break the sound barrier in 1947!During WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

T/Sgt Thomas Edward Snowden was from Giddings TX and served in the US Army Air Corp in the 57th Fighter Group, 65th Fighter Squadron "The Pyramiders"In this podcast I mention two webistes57thfightergroup.orgsoldiersangels.orgDuring WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

This week we have letters written by PFC George Paul Corthell of Tiffin and Oak Harbor Ohio. PFC Corthell served with the 862nd Chemical Co, Aviation Operations in Europe. I'd like to thank Hampstead NH Cable Tv for their contribution which allowed me to purchase these letters at auction.During WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

This week we have letters written home by two brothers from Lawrenceville Virginia. Pvt James W. Scarborough served in the 1177th Military Police Aviation and Cpl Julien L. Scarborough served with the 752nd Tank Battalion. During WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeAlso please check out Roch n' Rumble! A nonprofit organization that provides an opportunity to veterans to learn how to play an instrument. Instruments and instructions are provided to veterans - please consider donating funds, or perhaps an instrument to find out how, lease visit Rocknrumble.BostonThank you for listening!

Cpl Noel Charles Reed was from Fairfield Vermont as a Military Police Officer. During WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeAlso please check out Roch n' Rumble! A nonprofit organization that provides an opportunity to veterans to learn how to play an instrument. Instruments and instructions are provided to veterans - please consider donating funds, or perhaps an instrument to find out how, lease visit Rocknrumble.BostonThank you for listening!

Kenneth Paul Miller was from Pennsylvania and served in the U.S. Navy during WW2 and he was stationed at CASU-22 During WW2 women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

Henry Ellis Carlisle was from Pierson Florida and a fern grower. He served in the Ordnance at Tidworth EnglandDuring WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

PFC Anderson served in the 23rd Marines, 4th Division. He saw some of the worst of the Pacific, fighting in Saipan, Tinian and Iwo Jima. Please take a moment to hear his story, and his letter. If you know of the Anderson family of Pittsburgh, please pass along my podcast! Let's try to get this letter home!Let's also celebrate the return of Lt. Sadie Cohen's letter home! I talk about that at the end of this podcast!During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

PFC John William (Willie) Phillips, a farmer of Virginia served in the 116th Infantry and the 1906 Ordnance. Hear his letters home to his sister Virginia in 1943 and 1944!During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

Corporal Joseph Donald Hamel, United States Marine Corp. Corp Hamel fought with the 7th Marines in grueling fighting through the Pacific, he wrote his letter home while undergoing training for Operation Iceberg.. The Battle of Okinawa.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

S/Sgt Walter Raymond Shipp was from Kenton Ohio. He was killed in action on Feb 17, 1945 at the age of 31, during the Battle of Manila. Please listen to his story, and his letter home written in August of 1944 to his sister Hazel back home.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

PFC Kenneth Evert Goff of Michigan served with the 4th Air Force Replacement Depot Squadron 403, in the Pacific. also!  an exciting update to the podcast about S/K Herbert C. Brummett!During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

Pvt Armstrong served in the US Army with 98th infantry division – Iroquois division, 389th Infantry Regiment at the end of the war, assigned to occupied Japan under General MacArthur. During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

Joseph Frederick Pratt Jr., of Jacksonville Florida was a pilot of a B26 Marauder Bomber in WW2. He flew 282 combat hours over Italy, France and Germany, all before the age of 22 yrs old.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

S/1 Stanley J. Dombrowski served as a Naval Armed Guard of the Merchant Marine ship the SS Eielson during WW2. Hear about brave service of the Armed Guards, the Merchant Marines, and hear S/1 Dombrowski's letters home.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

Pvt Warren Papkey was from Massachusetts and served with the Medical Detachment of the 175th Infantry. Please have a listen and hear a bit about the Army Medics of WW2.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

The Wagner brothers both served in WW2. Carl served in the Pacific, and Donald in Europe - he was killed in action in France July of 1944.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. Please visit me on Facebook, or email me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeThank you for listening!

Lt. Sadie Cohen served as an Army Nurse in the Pacific theatre or WW2 at the 60th General Hospital in New Guinea and Philippines. During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeVisit us also on Facebook! War and Family, Letters Homehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090294016439&mibextid=LQQJ4d

S/Sgt Nelson served in WW2 in the 60th Transport Group, deploying paratroopers, flying in supplies and evacuating wounded both in North Africa and Italy. Mentioned in this episode is SoldiersAngels.org Please check them out to find ways to help active and veteran service men and women and their families.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeVisit us also on Facebook! War and Family, Letters Homehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090294016439&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Clifford Emil Hehn joined the US Navy in 1939 when he was just 17 years old. At the time of the Pearl Harbor attack he was aboard the USS Langley, the very first American aircraft carrier, anchored off the Philippines. Just two months later, while trying to bring P40 aircraft to the island of Java, she was attacked by Japanese bombers and sunk. Please listen to the story of Seaman First Class Clifford Emil Hehn and the final hours of the USS Langley.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeVisit us also on Facebook! War and Family, Letters Homehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090294016439&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Thank you for joining me for our annual Memorial Day episode of War and Family: Letters Home.This episode is being recorded Memorial Day weekend 2024. Memorial Day is sometimes thought of as the kick off to the summer months, and it is – however more importantly it is to honor those that made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives in defense of our country. The fallen heroes who never made it home.2nd Lt. Earl Leonard Urban served in the 701st Tank Destroyer Battalion. He was just 27 years old when he lost his life on the battlefields of Northern Italy.Please take a moment and listen to the story of his life, and hear his letter home to his Mom.Please share this podcast - the more listeners I have, the better chances I have to send these letters home.

Ensign Dale Cleveland Alexander, US Navy Pilot. He was originally Illinois and he was trained in DeLand Florida as a Dive Bomber Pilot. Mr. Alexander was also very involved in the beginnings of the DeLand Naval Air Station Museum.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeVisit us also on Facebook! War and Family, Letters Homehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090294016439&mibextid=LQQJ4dThank you for listening!

James Teasdale McAllister was a soldier from Philadelphia PA and he served with Battery A 265th Field Artillery Battalion in Europe.During WW2 men and women were deployed throughout Europe and the Pacific and their only means to communicate home was through letters, handwritten notes to assure those at home they were alright and waiting for letters from their loved ones to provide semblance of support and normalcy. Over the years I have collected letters with the intention of returning to family - but first I’d like to share who these men were, where were they from and the context of where the soldiers were and what role they played in the War.Please sit back and get to know these members of the greatest generation. It is my hope that All letters in these podcasts will return to family. If you recognize the soldiers or families, please reach out to me at [email protected] and help me get the letters homeVisit us also on Facebook! War and Family, Letters Homehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090294016439&mibextid=LQQJ4dThank you for listening!