The Wartime Letters of John Brey, Jr.: October 2044

JOHN BREY JR.

This is a posthumously published blog of letters written by SSG John Brey Jr. to his wife Peg between March 1943 and July 1945, covering training in USA, Deployment to England, France, front line service up to being wounded at the battle for Metz on Nov 13, 1944, and 7 months recuperation in England, and Topika Kansas. His wife delivered his first son, Jack in March 1945 while John was in route back to the US from England. After convalescent leave in May 1945, John remained away from his new family in an Army Hospital in Kansas until his discharge at the end of July.

This blog is maintained by Ken Brey with thanks to Jack Brey who did the scanning and organization, Dot Fulks who holds the original letters and Ed Brey who helped with the technical aspects of creating the blog.

Want to help? Post comments which include the full text of the letters. I will integrate the full text into the blog when there is enough of it.

	Somewhere in France Saturday 14 Oct 44 My Darling: Long time no hear – hey? To be exact I wrote my last letter to you a week ago today! Wish I’d be able to warn you whenever there’s going to be such a lull – but it’s Military Security - and truthfully this last one caught me unaware. I’m feeling fine – and still roaring – but Pray Honey that the final whistle will still find me going strong. Everything Joe has ever said in his letters to us has proved correct – In fact to darn correct! I Love You Honey Darling! Have had a little trip – one that was a history-book full
	of knowledge. Have seen the French people in every walk of life – City - Farms & Villages. One of the oddest things that seems so medieval is there toilets – they practically crap on the floors – of course something like that would have to interest me!! Became familiar with the 40+8 – 40 men or 8 horses – there RR’s – It’s the nuts! We are certainly lucky to be Americans. I’m serious Hon. We are power & everywhere you go & no matter what you do it’s the U.S.A. that stands out like a sore thumb. I Love You! The Last I heard about Football was the Packers ahead of the Cards 21-0 at the half. – but haven’t found out the rest – Honey send me the scores
	as the paper delivery is very inconsistent! I Love You Honey! Now Honey don’t go worrying your pretty little head about me – I’ll take care of as much of the war as I can and you do a good job on the baby. It’s a heck of a thing to have to worry about two things at once – I know! But it’ll end soon (I hope) – hardly think Hitler can keep withstanding the pressure- So Darling will sign off – a little soon I know – but I want to write Ma a letter before darkness settles in. Goodnight & God Bless You! I Love You Hon! Love & Kisses Johnnie Friday the 13th of the year of 44 – month of Oct will never be forgotten by me! I Love You!