September 14 and 22, 1944

On September 14, 1944, Johnnie wrote a letter to Lucile, expressing his astonishment that she had chosen to marry him.

My Dear Darling,

Received your letter today and was sure glad to hear from you after not hearing from you in about four days. This letter had the pictures of you, Mickey, and Geral in it. That sure is a cute dog you have holding in your arms. Be sure that’s all you hold, Ha Ha. Say, Geral has a good looking little old gal, hasn’t he? What has that little dope got now, Ha Ha? Honey, you look darn good in this picture. It makes you look so real or rather you are looking like Lukes once more, you know the girl I used to date so much, and you tried so much to get rid of me. But it didn’t do any good, Ha Ha. And I finally talked you into marrying a dope like me. You don’t know it or I guess you do by now, but when I first saw you, I did a little bragging. I told all the fellows I knew that I was going to marry you. And I didn’t even know I was going to make a hit with you then or not. Honey, I’m glad to hear that Mom Stacks is feeling much better and I hope with all my heart she gets completely well once more. Am glad that Doc is OK also. You can’t get that old Bull sick anyway, Ha Ha. Well Darling, I will close for this time so write and keep writing. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Love Johnnie

Lucile (unknown as to whether this is the photo Johnnie mentions)

Geral’s “gal” Evelyn and Elvie

On September 15, 1944, the Regiment encountered fierce German resistance, stalling their advance along the entire line. Despite efforts, they could not capture Mount Altuzzo on the left, leaving the right flank in a stalemate. The 337th Infantry received orders to relieve pressure by seizing Mount Pratone and assuming objectives previously assigned to the 339th Infantry. Amidst sniper fire, mortars, and heavy machine guns, a tragic incident of friendly fire caused 12 casualties. Undeterred, the Regiment pressed forward, securing Mount Pratone by day’s end and taking enemy prisoners.

On September 18, 1944, the 1st and 3rd Battalions, fatigued from climbing and lack of rest, ceded leadership to the 2nd Battalion. Their goal: capturing Mount Fellone. Despite encountering fierce enemy resistance and difficult terrain, the attack continued into September 19, resulting in the successful capture of Mount Acuto. The Regiment made commendable progress, securing 50 prisoners, and during nightfall, they resupplied and evacuated casualties.

Machine gun crew of 338th Infantry, 85th Division, fires at German carrying demolitions, September 19, 1944.
Photographer: Schmidt, 3131st Signal Service Co. Public domain.

Troops of 338th Infantry, 85th Division, marching toward newly-won position in Gothic Line, September 19, 1944
(Firenzuola area, Italy). Photographer: Schmidt, 3131st Signal Service Company. Public domain.

85th Infantry Division infantrymen marching over an area in the Gothic Line smashed by our artillery,
September 19, 1944. Photographer: Rusbar, 196th Signal Photo Company.
Photo Source: U.S. National Archives. Digitized by Signal Corps Archive. Public domain.

On September 20, 1944, significant military actions unfolded. While one battalion seized Mount Montale, another advanced toward San Pellegrino. Simultaneously, the 1st Battalion undertook the task of capturing two remaining uncaptured hills. Despite no enemy contact, it took them 10 hours to secure both hills. Throughout the day, the Regiment engaged in minor skirmishes, aiding two battalions from the 88th Division as they passed through the front line, resulting in the elimination of numerous enemy troops and 23 captured.

On September 21, the Regiment enjoyed a day of rest. However, on September 22, 1944 Johnnie took a moment to write a letter to Lucile. In his message, he gently reminded her that there might be occasions when he would not be able to write.

My Dear Darling,

First, a few lines to let you know I am OK and hope that this find you the same. I guess you have been wondering why you haven’t been hearing from me. But as I told you before, there will be times I won’t be able to write and when I can I will try to make up for what time I lost writing to you. So, please don’t worry if you don’t hear from me now and then. How is your throat now since you had your tonsils took out? Has the sores gone out of it? I guess it has by now. I sent you some more money. Have you received it yet? Will send you some more when I get paid again, which shall be soon. Has Nell heard from Robert lately? How is he making out? OK, I hope. Well Darling, I will have to close for now. Tell all the family hello for me, and give them my love. I miss you a lot Darling and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

On the night of September 22–23, while the 339th Infantry advanced toward the Bordignano sector, the 337th Regiment (Johnnie’s) received urgent orders to relocate swiftly to an assembly area east of Firenzuola. The 339th encountered intense enemy artillery fire, while the 337th held a defensive position on Hill 690 near La Torta. 

On September 24, the 1st Battalion (Johnnie’s) resumed its movement at dawn. A report revealed that 100 Germans in Giugnola were ready to surrender, prompting plans for their escort. However, the mission did not come to fruition. By mid-day, the battalion had gathered near Visignano, despite encountering intense enemy fire. In the early evening, a curious scene unfolded: German infantry and vehicles attempted to advance along the highway. Unbeknownst to them, the area was already firmly under our troops’ control. Meanwhile, the 3rd Battalion set up camp near La Torta for the night.

On September 25, the battalions thwarted a planned enemy attack after gathering intelligence from captured prisoners. The 1st Battalion received orders to relieve Company G on high ground east of Monzano, supporting the 2nd Battalion’s efforts to prevent enemy territorial reclamation. Simultaneously, another company within the 1st Battalion relieved the 349th Infantry on Hill 954. Unexpectedly, the impending attack was postponed, prompting the 337th Battalion to secure the entire Mount La Fine hill mass. Despite fierce enemy resistance, our forces held firm, denying any progress. Meanwhile, on September 27, the 3rd Battalion successfully seized and occupied il Poggio, completing their mission by September 28. Word quickly circulated that the enemy had retreated overnight. Consequently, all three battalions received orders to verify this information. On September 29, their withdrawal was confirmed, and the highway was reported to be in excellent shape. In preparation for the upcoming attack scheduled for October 1, orders were issued to position the battalions along a suitable line of departure. By September 30, they were fully prepared, marking the commencement of another pivotal phase in the Italian campaign.

Troop movements during September were concentrated is in the vicinity circled in red.
Source: https://mapcruzin.com/free-italy-maps.htm.

In late month, the weather turned reminiscent of an Italian winter. Troops faced driving rain, biting winds, and relentless cold while navigating rugged terrain. Steep peaks over 3,000 feet high loomed, and bottomless valleys and treacherous trails hindered speed. Despite challenges, they moved supplies and evacuated with support from the 2nd and 9th Italian Mule Groups. Company A of the 310th Engineer Battalion worked to clear vehicle routes.

The 2nd Indian Mule Company, Royal Indian Service Corps. This company helped supply the British 1st Division.
While not the same company that supported the 337th, it would have looked similar.
Photo taken October 2, 1944 near Crespino, Italy. Photographer: Yaskell, 3131st Signal Service Corps.
Photo source: U.S. National Archives. Digitized by Signal Corps Archive, public domain.

GIs with mess gear standing in the mud in Gothic Line in Apennines, September 29, 1944,
Fifth Army, Route 65, Italy. Photographer: Schmidt, 3131 Signal Service Co.
Photo source: U.S. National Archives. Digitized by Signal Corps Archive.

During the month of September, 126 prisoners were captured and 1 Distinguished Service Cross Medal, 3 Legion of Merits, 11 Silver Stars (1 posthumously), 1 Oak Leaf Cluster to Bronze Star Medal, 72 Bronze Stars (2 posthumously), 46 Purple Hearts, 17 Oak Leaf Cluster to Purple Hearts, and 289 Combat Infantryman Badges were awarded. Company C was cited for outstanding performance of duty in action, from May 12-16, 1944 near Tremensuoli, Italy. One officer and 29 enlisted men were killed in action, 3 officers and 184 enlisted men were wounded in action, and 1 officer and 102 enlisted men were missing in action. The Regiment now consisted of 171 officers, 5 warrant officers, and 3291 enlisted men.  

September 5, 7, 8, and 10, 1944

Lucile confided in Johnnie, expressing her loneliness. To his understanding, he acknowledged experiencing similar emotions in a letter he wrote on September 5, 1944.

My Dear Darling,

Received a letter from you today and was glad to hear that you are well and OK. As for myself, I am alright now. I am sorry to hear that you are so lonesome, and I know just how you feel on those rainey days. Maybe it won’t be so long now for me to be back with you. Then we can make up all the days we aren’t together, OK? You say it is getting pretty cold back there at home already? Gee, this month shouldn’t be so bad back there. I guess it is because you had such a hot summer. No, it isn’t so long till another Christmas will be around and another new year also. Let’s hope the whole world is at peace once more. I really hope so. You say little George got married? I don’t believe it. Do you know the girl he married or rather do we both know her? You know Mickey could be married to his girl also and maybe doesn’t want his Mother and the rest of you to know it. What do you think of that? That would be something, Ha Ha. You know he’s just crazy enough to try a thing like that, don’t you think so? O’yeah, I wrote you and told you I was sending you some more money. I hope it gets to you. I am still off of the lines. I hope the war will be over before we go back up. You know Irvin was coming back to see me Sunday, but he has never shown up. I’m going to keep in touch with him. Boy, you don’t know how good it made me feel to meet up with him and talk of the folks back home, and a lot of other things. Boy, will he be surprised when he hears that George is married, Ha Ha. O say, you said in this letter that you have forgotten how to act with a husband. Well don’t let that worry you. I can teach you all over again. Just like I taught you when we first got married, Ha Ha. Remember you didn’t know anything from a to z, Ha Ha. But you learned the hard way, didn’t you? O say, have you ever sent the bracelet yet? If so, it sure is taking its time about getting to me. Gosh, I hope it doesn’t take it as long as it took the ring. Say, you remember the ring you found in Texas? Well, I still have it and it is still on my little finger where you put it. I wouldn’t get rid of it for nothing. It isn’t much good but just the same, I believe it has brought me luck so far and I have never taken it off since the time you put it on. O’yeah, tell your Mother I said for her to take her time about writing me because I know how busy she is. As long as I know she is writing, I know it won’t be so long till I hear from her. Tell Dot and Nell I will answer their letter as soon as I get time to. How is Doc? Tell him I might be home any day now if this war keeps going in our favor. And we can go fishing and if you are good, I might even let you go, Ha Ha. Well Darling, I will close for now. I believe this is the longest letter I have ever wrote you since I’ve been overseas and I believe it’s the longest letter you have ever wrote me also. I could still write a lot more but I guess you kindly got tired of it. I miss you a lot Baby and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

P.S. Here is some Italian money. Don’t try to spend it because it won’t work, Ha Ha.

Elvie, Earl’s (Mickey) wife

Johnnie and Lucile anticipated Christmas even before the leaves began to change in early fall. In his letter dated September 7, 1944, Johnnie thoughtfully suggested a gift for Lucile. Meanwhile, Lucile had another significant event on the horizon: she was scheduled to undergo a tonsillectomy.

My Dear Darling,

I received two letters from you today and was very sorry to hear that your tonsils were giving you so much trouble. I think it is swell that you are finally going to have them took out. At least me being in the Army did help you out some. I am sure the doctor’s at Fort Mac will do a good job for you. I guess by the time you get this they will be out and you will be well from it. I hope so. You asked me what I would like for Christmas. Nothing that I know of, except you can send me some wool socks right away if you can get them. Will close. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Lucile

On September 8, 1944, Johnnie wrote a V-mail to Lucile, expressing his gratitude for the gum she had sent him. Interestingly, upon receiving the package, he initially mistook it for something else.

My Dear Darling,

I received the gum you sent me tonight at mail call, but I haven’t heard from you in three days now. Boy, this mail sure runs crazy. But I guess it is the best they can do. Boy, this package of gum sure fooled me. I thought it was my bracelet. Not that I didn’t want the gum but the last letter I got from you, you said that the bracelet shall arrive by now and when I got the package, that was what I thought it was. I saved the letters I got from you through August just to see how many you write a month. I have just twelve and the last two I received was mailed the first and second of September. Will close. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

On September 9, 1944, the Regiment celebrated Salerno Day, marking the intense combat and resilience displayed by the Fifth Army led by General Mark Clark, during the Salerno landings on September 9, 1943. On that fateful day, Clark expected minimal resistance, assuming only a few coastal defense units had not received the memo about Italy’s surrender. To his surprise, his troops encountered fierce fire from the moment they hit the beach. Instead of Italians, they faced the battle-hardened 16th Panzer Division, a German unit dug into strongpoints along the Salerno beach.

During a Regimental formation at the celebration, a technical sergeant in Company L received the Distinguished Service Cross. Additionally, Company C was honored with a Presidential Citation for their exceptional performance during the critical action of taking and holding Hill 66 near Tremensuoli—a pivotal moment at the start of the Gustav Line breakthrough.

The 85th Division now faced an Army attack order: to penetrate the Gothic Line and fan out into the Po Valley across a three-division front. Johnnie’s regiment, the 337th, initially held a position in division reserve, with orders to follow the advance of the 338th Infantry by bounds.

In his letter to Lucile on September 10, 1944, Johnnie attempted to shed light on America’s involvement in the significant conflict. Alongside this, he engaged in a heartfelt conversation about family matters.

My Dear Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and OK. I surely hope with all my heart that this finds you the same. I received the bracelet yesterday and it really is a dandy. It has everything that I wanted on it. There isn’t but one thing wrong. They didn’t spell your name right. They left out one of the L’s, am I not right? The last letter I received from you, you were telling me about Dot and Drexter moving into their house. Say, Dot and Drex must plan on having a big family, moving in a house that large, Ha Ha. Well, all I can say about it is more power to them, Ha Ha. Say, how did you make out on having your tonsils pulled out. I hope you didn’t go through much pain. I know darn well if you did you wouldn’t let me know about it. Say, how are you making out on saving your money? Have you got five hundred saved up yet? I don’t know how many times I have told you, but I don’t want you to save any of the money I send you. I want you to use it on yourself, personal. I hope you understand that. Not that I want to claim any of what you have saved either. All that you have put away is yours and yours alone. O’yeah Lou, you said something about Doc building another house out on Welcome Road. I guess that’s the way you spell it. I mean the road, Ha Ha. Well, anyway you said you like this house better than the one down below Woodrow and Frances’ house. Well honey, when I get back, which I hope won’t be long, I want to do everything that is in my power to make you happy. So, if you like this place better than the other one, well that suits me. So, send me a picture of what it looks like. I am sure if you like it, I know darn well I will. Have you seen my old man lately? I hear from them about twice a month. Say, that sister of yours, Dot, she is a gag, Ha Ha. You know Dot always says what she is thinking. She told me she wasn’t going to have no more kids till I get home. So, you and her both can start a big family together, Ha Ha. She also wanted to know if it would be alright to write me some good jokes she heard. I guess she thinks they sensor the mail I get from home. I wish she would. I haven’t heard a good joke in such a long time, it’s a pity, Ha Ha. Well, I guess that’s enough of me trying to be funny. Lou honey, remember when you were in Trenton, N.J. while I was at Fort Dix and we were talking a lot about guys going overseas and what they were going over for, and I try to tell you in my on words the reason. Well, it is still the same and regardless of what the outcome of it all may be, it all adds up to one thing. That’s for you and the rest of the people of the good old U.S.A. to live the way they want to and to have free speeches and not be afraid of what the outcome may be. I would hate for our own country to be in the condition of the ones I have seen so far, and people suffering like the ones over here are. Well, that’s enough of that and I guess you are tired of reading what a lot of people think isn’t true. And never will be. That’s just what little they know about how hard life can be. Will close. Tell all the family I said hello and for you, I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

A look back at Fort Dix

Set amidst the rugged Apennine Mountains in North Central Italy, the battle for the Gothic Line commenced on September 12, 1944. The regiment advanced from Florence, converging on an assembly area near Bivigliano, where they awaited the opportune moment to strike. Subsequently, they shifted to yet another assembly point—this time north of the Sieve River, close to Borgo San Lorenzo—to strategize their defense against anticipated counterattacks. 

Gothic Line, The History Department of the United States Military Academy,
public domain, via Wikimedia Commons 

August 30, September 1, 2, and 3, 1944

Johnnie wrote Lucile on August 30, 1944 letting her know her cousin Irvin had visited him. He also let Lucile know that he had shared some of her letters with him.

My Dearest Darling,

Just to let you know I am OK now and that I am back with my outfit. I got back yesterday evening. Guess who was here hunting me—your cousin Irvin. He looks good and he is alright. He stayed with me last nite and left today to go back to his outfit. It sure was good to see him. We talked of old times and of you. He hasn’t changed much, but he thinks I have a lot. O’yeah, when I got back, I had about twelve letters from you. One from your Mother, also. I let Irvin see some of them and he said you know that girl is crazy about you. I told him I hope you was. I also told him that you were what kept me going over here. I hope you don’t mind me but its the truth. Irvin says he is coming back Sunday. We are at a rest area now. He said he was going to write you and let you know he found me. Tell Virgil and Edna he’s OK, will you? I can’t understand why you haven’t received the forty dollars I sent you. I sent it before I sent you the twenty-five. It really burns me up. Well Darling, it is getting late and I can hardly see to write so I will close. Please write steady. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always Johnnie. 

P.S. I received a letter from Happy!! 

Love, Johnnie

Lucile's cousin, Irvin Stacks

Happy was Johnnie’s nephew, Clarence Harold Wilson, son of his aunt Louise Marston.

The first and last pages of a letter written in late August 1944 are missing so we only know a piece of what was on Johnnie’s mind that day. It has a postmark stamp with the date August 30, 1944 on it.

… right. So please don’t be mad about it. I will write Dad and tell him the reason I wanted him to get it instead of you. I wouldn’t want them to get the wrong impression of you. You have done wonders for me, in case I have never told you, and you are above everything else, regardless of what it is. And as long as I know you are for me, that’s all that matters. Honey, you can send me four packs of Prince Albert pipe tobacco and some of the cheese crackers and homemade fudge candy. The …

By August 30, the Regiment was camped in an area north of Certaldo. That afternoon, they held an assembly and presented awards to 25 officers and enlisted men. During the period August 27–31, the 92nd American Division stayed with the Regiment to gain combat experience. The Brazilian Expeditionary Force spent several days with them to prepare for going into the line. During the month of August, 3 Distinguished Service Cross Medals (1 missing in action), 13 Silver Stars, 2 Oak Leaf Clusters to Bronze Star Medals, 30 Bronze Stars (1 posthumously), 41 Purple Hearts, and 97 Combat Infantryman Badges were awarded. One officer and 16 enlisted men were killed in action, 4 officers and 72 enlisted men were wounded in action, and 1 officer and 25 enlisted men were missing in action. The Regiment now consisted of 179 officers, 5 warrant officers, and 3400 enlisted men.

Click here to read the Operations Report by the 337th Infantry Regiment for September 1944.

September began with the Regiment in a temporary camp near Certaldo, Italy with the soldiers “enaged in a program of training which stressed firing of weapons, mountain combat, physical conditioning, scouting and patrolling.” Preparations were complete on all accounts for “engaging in the new Fifth Army offensive against the vaunted Gothic Line.”

Certaldo is in the vicinity circled in red. Source: https://mapcruzin.com/free-italy-maps.htm.

Irvin did in fact send a V-mail to Lucile from Italy on September 1, 1944 and told her about his visit with Johnnie.

Wednesday, Italy.

Dear Luke,

How do I find my cousin feeling now. Well Luke I have got some good news for you. I finally found Johnie. Boy we sure did have a good time. He didn't know what to do when he saw me. We both was tickled to death to see one another. I stayed two days and a night with him. We talked about home and things. You know he got a lot of Atlanta papers, and we was looking at them and found our pictures in them, mine and his. I hope to go back over their Sunday to see him again. Tell Dorothy to write. She has never answered my letter.

With love, Irvin

Johnnie wrote Lucile a V-mail on September 2, 1944 about receiving letters from her and her sisters, all of which made him happy. He was also concerned about why she had not received some money he had sent her.

My Dear Darling Wife,

I received three letters yesterday, one from you, Dot, and Nell. I was glad to hear from you especially and to know you are alright. Also, Dot and Nell. Both of them told me about you girls having a big dance. Dot said she showed all of you how to really get down to it, Ha Ha. Honey, about the forty dollars I sent you, I can’t understand why you have never received it. I don’t believe I can do anything about it because I lost the receipt. I am sending you forty more. I hope this makes it. Will close. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Johnnie

Lucile’s sisters, Dot and Nell Stacks

Johnnie will always worry about Lucile. He made that clear in his September 3, 1944 V-mail to her.

My Dear Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am OK and hope that this finds you the same. Received a letter from you that just took eight days to get to me, not bad. You asked me in this letter to quit worrying about you. Well, it’s no use to ask me that because as long as I am not there to look after you, I will always worry. I received a letter from Louise yesterday also. She was really burnt up on what I wrote her, but she said she had it coming to her. O yes, she said Evelyn and Bill was married now. I will write more on other V-mail. 

Love, Johnnie 

Johnnie's sister, Louise

August 22, 24, 25, and 28, 1944

Johnnie seemed to have a good relationship with his stepmother, telling Lucile a story about her and one of his photos in his August 22, 1944 letter.

My Dear Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am OK, and hope that this finds you the same. Well, here it is another month about gone. You know it won’t be long till old winter will be here. Boy, I am going to hate that being over here. Gee honey, I would give anything to see you. I will never forget how you looked the night I left you to come over here. I wanted you so much to myself that night, but I knew you didn’t feel so well, and we couldn’t get away from the family if we wanted to. I grant you it won’t be like that when I return. Because we will take off somewhere, so that we can be alone, OK with you? You ask me if I was hearing from Dad and his wife? Yes, quite often, at least she writes me a lot. I think she is falling in love with me, Ha Ha. You know those pictures I sent you of me I had made over here? Well as you know I sent them a picture of me also. You know she wrote me back, saying she didn’t know I was so good looking, Ha Ha. Well, knowing just what I look like, I told her she had better get her another pairs of glasses, Ha Ha. O’yeah, her son Willie and his wife was over to see them the other day she said, and Willie’s wife asked her where have I been keeping myself. Before I went overseas, she told her that I was married also, and that no woman could take your place with me, and believe me she not kidding either or do you know that? Well, I will close for now so keep writing, and tell all the folks hello for me. I miss you a lot honey and I love you a million. 

Always Johnnie 

Johnnie’s stepmother, Lola (Miller) Marston

Johnnie was still in the hospital when he wrote Lucile on August 24, 1944. He also talked about one family member already in the military and another that may have to go soon. The 1st Battalion was relieved that night and moved “to an intermediate assembly area near Strada.” Since Johnnie was still in the hospital, he may not have moved with his battalion.

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am OK. I am still in the hospital though. Say, did you ever receive the rest of the money I sent you? Be sure and let me know and I will see what I can do about it if you haven’t. Say, does Mickey have to go to the Army next month? He won’t be eighteen then, will he? I have never run into Irvin yet. Send me his address again. I lost the other one. Say, what did the doctor ever say about you? My worries are more about you than they are anything else or do you know that? Say, I heard a pretty song yesterday on the radio and it really made me think about you if you can get the recording of it. The name of it is “They Ask About You.” Play it and see what you think about it. Will close. I miss you a lot Darling and I love you a million. 

Always Johnnie

Earl (Mickey) had not enlisted yet but would do so one day after his 18th birthday, September 11, 1944.

Earl (Mickey) Stacks

Click here to hear the song “When They Ask About You” (by Jimmy Dorsey and his orchestra with vocals by Kitty Kallen) mentioned in the above letter.

Johnnie wrote a V-mail to Lucile’s parents on August 25, 1944. He shared that he had met someone in the hospital there that had bought lumber from Sam’s business. Small world.

Hello Folks,

Just a few lines to let you know I am OK. But still have a bruised leg. But it is coming along alright now. I haven’t heard from any of you in a good while, but I don’t expect to till I get back to my outfit. Well, the war seems to be going in our favor. Maybe it won’t be so long now. I want to see all of you so bad. Doc, I met a fellow here in the hospital. He said his Dad used to buy a lot of lumber off of you. He lives in East Point. He left this morning though. I forgot his name, it’s pretty hard to say also. See your place of business is known well, even over here, Ha Ha.

Love, Johnnie

On August 26, the 2nd and 3rd Battalions “came under control of the 1st American Armored Division for operations only.” Late afternoon, a platoon raided a group of buildings near the river bank with full support from artillery, cannon, mortar, and automatic weapons fire in an attempt “to concentrate enemy attention on this sector.” The enemy reaction was not as violent as expected but the Regiment’s mission was accomplished. Casualties for the enemy was four killed, one captured, and an unestimated number of injuries. The 2nd Battalion was relieved the night of August 26 and the 3rd Battalion on the night of August 27.

Johnnie’s brother-in-law, Robert Astin, Nell’s husband, was featured in one of The Atlanta Constitution’s “With the Army-Navy and Marines” articles on August 27, 1944. Robert served in the U.S. Navy from May 24, 1943 to November 26, 1945.

Robert Astin

                                Overseas—…

With the Army-Navy and Marines, The Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta, Georgia, August 27, 1944 

Johnnie described what he told an old friend of how he convinced Lucile to date and then marry him in his August 28, 1944 letter. 

My Dear Darling,

 

Just a few lines to let you know I am coming along OK and will leave the hospital tomorrow to go back to my outfit. I hope with all my heart that this finds you well and getting along OK there at home. One thing about going back, I expect some letters from you and the rest of the folks I have never received. That’s one thing a boy looks forward to over here, his hearing from his sweetheart, or wife, or his folks. You are all three to me and God knows I mean it. You know before I came to the hospital or even thought of coming, I heard other guys that was hurt or pretty sick that have been and come back brag how well they treat you and look out for you while you are here. Well I find out to the truth and you can’t get dismissed till they are sure you are well and OK. Well that’s enough for the hospital. What about the money I sent you? Have you received all of it yet? I guess you have by now. Say I met a fellow here in the hospital that used to live on Washington Road. I forgot his last name, but his first name is Edward. He went to the school you went to. But he just went there till on up to the fourth grade then his family moved on to Hapeville. That is were he is living now. He says he remembers you and Dot and Nell’s names but he doubts if he would know any of you now. I showed him a picture of you and of course he wanted to know what you ever seen in me. I told him I met you in the dark and that the only time I would date you was at night so that you couldn’t see what I really looked like. And that I kept it like that till I married you. He said he believed it, Ha Ha. He doesn’t know good looks when he sees it, does he. Or does he? Well, I better quit talking about myself before you get to thinking what you really even see in me. Will close for now, regardless of what you think, I love you. I miss you a lot Darling and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

August 12, 13, 17, and 19, 1944

Before going into the Army, something happened between Johnnie and Lucile that he must have regretted. Once again, he expressed remorse to Lucile in his August 12, 1944 V-mail.

Dear Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I have received three letters from you in the last few days. That’s not bad at all. I hope and pray to God that there isn’t anything seriously wrong with you when you go to the doctors for a checkup. If there is you know who the cause of it is and I know I have a debt to pay, regardless of what you think. But you can bet on one thing, if everything does go well and when I do get home, I will do my best to make up for the past on such matters. Well, I will have to close for this time. I miss you a lot Baby and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Some of the soldiers fighting overseas had to worry about what their women were doing back home in the States but when Johnnie wrote Lucile on August 13, 1944, he made it clear that he could count on her.

My Dear Darling,

Just a line or two to let you know I am thinking of you and hope and pray that when you had your check over that there wasn’t anything real serious wrong. For goodness sake, let me know the truth about it. I received a letter from little Mary, or I shall say big Mary because she said she surely has grown a lot. I hope she’s putting on a little weight with it. She talks like she was almost grown. Get that the way all you women are when you are kids, you think you shall be accounted as a grown person when you get thirteen or fourteen years old, Ha Ha. Am I not right? Honey, you asked me what I meant when I said that I hope I still have a hold on you. You should know what I meant, so I am not going into detail about it. Oh say, can you send me some tablets to write on? I am about out of paper again. I am still looking for the bracelet. Also, if you haven’t sent me the pen, don’t send it. I can’t get no ink here for it anyway. Boy, I would give anything to see you for one day. Darn, I wish I could show you just how much you mean to me. I really get homesick thinking about the times we have had together, and I was really proud of you the last few days I was with you. Honey, the way some of these boys act here on some of the bad news they get from their wives or sweetheart it makes a person here think that, what soldiers that are left and four-F too, are taking care of all the women for them. But I know I can count on you like I have always. Will close for now. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

Mary Stacks

For those who are not aware of the military term 4-F, it means unfit for military service.

After spending the first two weeks of August doing regular training in a camp near Volterra, the Regiment was alerted on August 13 that they were to “relieve the front-line elements of the 91st American Infantry Division.” The morning of August 15 assigned members of the Regiment began planning for the 91st American Infantry Division relief mission. That night, troops “moved by meter to an assembly area near Strada.” Staying undercover during the day, various companies moved into position while waiting for orders. Once issued, the mission was completed on August 17 without incident and they now held the zone. The 1st Battalion was assigned the right sector of the front-line area the Regiment took over, encompassing “13,000 yards along the railroad track on the south bank of the Arne River from the Elsa River on the right to a point 1,000 yards west of Castelfrance on the left.” Few troops were left in reserve as most were needed to defend the wide front-line zone. The troops were opposed by a lightly manned but aggressive and active German army who made small unit raids against the front line. Shortly after the relief, a company platoon of 18 (1 officer and 17 enlisted men) was captured by the Germans so the decision was made to strengthen and improve the line. One hundred additional miles of wire were also added to improve telephone communication the night of August 17–18. 

Sometime during this period, Johnnie was involved in a non-battle truck accident. He was taken to a portable hospital with injuries that included contusions and lacerations to his thigh and shoulder. Johnnie was able to write a V-mail to Lucile the night of August 17, 1944 and mentioned the accident. As he usually does, he quickly changed the conversation to Lucile and asked how she was doing.

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines to find out how you are getting along. As for myself, I had a little accident. I was in a truck and it turned over. I wasn’t hurt so bad. It banged up my leg a little bit and I received a swelled-up jaw, but as for that, I am OK. What did the doctor say about you? I hope you are OK. Be sure and let me know how things come out. Well, I will close for this time. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

The trucks in the photo below are most likely the type Johnnie was riding in when the accident occurred.

Signal Corps Archive, public domain;
https://www.flickr.com/photos/signalcorpsarchive/52594812764/in/album-72157712605441088/

Ambush patrols covering the front before the dawn of August 18 ran into a firefight but were able to repulse the enemy. The Regiment spent the first few days in the new zone “preparing defensive fires, shifting weapons to more advantageous positions, establishing observation posts to cover the entire zone, and formulating counterattack plans.” It all paid off when they were able to hold the Germans off. 

On August 19, 1944, Johnnie wrote his next letter to Lucile and provided more details of the accident, along with sad news.

My Dear Darling,

I wrote you the other day telling you I got hurt a little bit in a truck when it turned over. Well, there was twenty-six of us in it, only seven of us was hurt bad enough to come to the hospital. One of the boys that was hurt pretty bad was my best buddy and friend. He died. His name is Harpold. I was able to be up and happened to be at his bedside when he passed away. The last words he said was “Johnnie, we can take it, can’t we?” I can’t really say how bad I felt when he passed away. Him and I always shared on everything we got. We always bunked together and always had the same idea about things. In all he was a great guy. And I miss him an awful lot. Well, that’s all I will say about that because I don’t want to think about it. I hope this finds you well and OK and have really gone to the doctor to see about yourself like you said you was. Have you received any more money since you got the twenty-five? I don’t want you to save what I send you. I want you to use it for your own benefit. Any way you want to. About this watch, it keeps pretty good time so don’t go buying me another one. How is Nell coming along? Has she heard from Robert yet? Is Dot and her family getting along OK? How is Mom Stacks and Doc? Sure would like to see you all. But you mostly. Are you still hanging around waiting? I hope. Well honey, I will have to close for now. So, keep writing and tell all the folks hello for me. I miss you a lot Darling. And I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

There is a Find A Grave memorial for Pfc. Horace E. Harpold that includes a partial article from a September 4, 1944 issue of the Dallas News that states “Pfc. Horace E. Harpold of the infantry was killed in action in Italy, August 17, the War Department has notified his parents, Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Harpold, 414 South Montreal.” The dates noted in the news article occur after Johnnie’s letter was written which is confusing, but it does confirm Pfc. Harpold’s death in Italy during the timeframe when the letter was written. A joint reburial service was held on December 7, 1948 for Pfc. Harpold and his cousin Irwin Harpold who was also killed during the war, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.

Pfc. Horace Harpold’s tombstone at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
(photo used with permission of LKate, Find A Grave member ID 47116782) 

Interment form

Corporal Mack Williams (left), Sergeant Horace Harpold (center), and
Private W. D. Morris (right) at Camp Bowie, Texas (Fort Worth Star-Telegram Collection,
University of Texas at Arlington Libraries. Camp Bowie Army Maneuvers. (1941). Retrieved from https://library.uta.edu/digitalgallery/img/20048966.)

With the new zones under control, the Regiment was tasked with “gradually pushing the enemy across the river.” They used tank destroyers to fire directly on “enemy-held buildings south of the Arne” river. Civilians report 80 German soldiers were killed on August 21. Patrols ambushed enemy patrols as they approached the line. The Regiment fought heavy German artillery and mortar fire with significant losses sustained. The Germans had placed mines and traps in the area causing some casualties.