February 13, 1945 Tuesday

France

Dearest Marjorie,

One thing I have had a chance to do since I have been here is to listen to some good music. The “American Forces Network in the field with the Seventh Army” puts onto a pretty good volume of classical music and our reception here is perfect. Concert bands, operatic recordings, Strauss waltzes and lighter music. Was reading an article on the therapeutic qualities of music—the radio people must be in on it, too; I have noticed that their programs include a big share of pieces thought to be best for lifting spirits. It is swell to hear good orchestras once more, to be able to give undivided attention to the music, and to have a radio that has practically natural tone reproduction. The “Merry Widow” comes in for its share, as do Gilbert & Sullivan. Lots of ballet music and, as I said, Viennese waltzes. In most groups some dope will always turn out a good orchestra selection for a jazz band, but I have them cornered here, since we have only this one American station!

Lt. O’Brien came down to see me about the coming trial again. Looks like I’ll be a witness—may even get an ambulance to take me to the trial. That would be a chance to see some of the boys again anyway.

Obie brought me word that I am now a 1st Lieutenant. Imagine the junior officer of the U.S. forces in Europe getting a promotion. Captain Fairbairn never told me he had me in for it, even. He recommended me after our engagement on Hill 310. That’s financially better than a star or other decoration, he says. Capt. Fairbairn is one of the squarest-shooting men I have ever seen. This increases my pay by a little over $30 a month. As soon as I can I’ll have that all added to your allottment. Makes my total pay now $300.34, as near as I can figure. I have lost all but one gold bar, anyway. 

It’s beginning to look as tho the coldest weather is all over here. It has been melting ever since the first of the month and today it is almost warm, like an early May day. Oodles of mud and water, but no snow left. All this weather talk is vitally interesting to an infantry man, so excuse me if it is not to you, Hon.

Our job in Alsace seems to be pretty well finished now. Where now? Maybe to our old stomping grounds further north. Hope not too far north, tho.

Everybody is pretty well oriented on Russia now, so I am currently engaged in research on a new talk. Have a copy of Edgar Snow’s “People On Our Side,” and plan to dig up something pretty erudite! Figure this one will be a lecture with fact presentation more than discussion.

I am now ready for some more letters. Our mail-orderly better get on the ball. You know, I have a game with him—giving him rank as he brings mail. He was up to master-sergeant when he brought those 18—but he is rapidly becoming a yard-bird again.

Bye now, Honey. I love you all the time, and think about you every minute. I hope everything is wonderful at home.

Always all yours,

Wallace.