April 12, 15, 16, and 17, 1944

Johnnie could not tell Lucile what was happening in Italy in his April 12, 1944 V-mail to Lucile.

My Dear Darling,

I received two letters from you today and I hope by the time you get this, that your measles have left you, because I know that kind of sickness isn’t fun, right? As for myself, I am as well as can be expected. Yes honey, I am hoping to be with you on your next birthday, or sooner. Anyway, that will be one great day for me, and I know for millions of other guys. I am glad to hear that the kids had a good Easter and that Mom Stacks was able to be up and enjoyed it with them. Yes, I bet Melvin does look good in his new suit. Well Darling, I will close for now. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Leola Stacks and Johnnie’s daughter, Diane Marston (after the war)

Johnnie asked for writing supplies in his April 15, 1944 V-mail to Lucile. His request came with a dire warning if she did not send any!

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am OK and hope that this finds you the same. Honey, you said you have never received the last money I sent you. I am sure by the time you get this you will have the money. Honey, I wish you would send me some writing paper and also a pen and pencil set. Be sure and get me a good one too. If you don’t, I am running short of paper and I am borrowing a pen to write with all the time. Send it as quick as possible. I won’t be able to write you as much as I have been on account of that. Honey, I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Lots love, Johnnie

Johnnie was thinking about his and Lucile’s future in his April 16, 1944 V-mail. 

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines to find out if you are OK and well. This leaves me about the same. Only missing you a hell of alot. I hope it’s the same way with you. Honey, has the Army ever got Mickey yet? I hope not. How is the rest of the family? I hope they are all well. Has Doc ever got another car yet? Your Mother wrote me in one of her letters that he might swap it for another car. That’s why I ask. I guess its pretty nice back home now, isn’t it? Honey, you asked me if I wanted the house down below Woodrow? I would give anything for it if it is as good as it was when I last saw it. I hope to own it some day for me and you. Will close. I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Johnnie was very close to talking about something most women do not want to hear in his April 17, 1944 V-mail to Lucile—her weight!

My Dearest Wife,

I received a letter from you today and also the picture of you and little Carol. They both really look good to me. Little Carol sure has grown alot and she looks mighty healthy and honey, you are looking grand yourself. You wrote and told me in one of your letters that you were gaining weight. You can look at the picture you sent me and tell that. Honey, I wish there was some way for me to have a picture made. I doubt if you would know me. I have a mustache and I have let my sideburns grow about an inch longer and I weigh about a hundred and fifty. I hope this finds all the folks well and tell them all hello for me. Will close. Write me. I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Lucile

March 31, April 6, 7, 8, and 9, 1944

Birthday wishes to Lucile were all that was on Johnnie’s mind in his March 31, 1944 V-mail.

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines tonight to let you know I am thinking of you and hope this finds you in the best of health. Well Darling, tomorrow is your birthday, and I hope you have twice that many more. Honey, how does it feel to be twenty-two years old, Ha Ha? You know, I am not running your age up this time, Ha Ha. You remember how I used to kid you about your age? I never forget the times we have had together. Will you? Lots Lots Love.

Always, Johnnie

Johnnie mentioned that his unit has been on the move in his April 6, 1944 letter. That would probably explain why it had been six days since his last letter.

My Dearest Darling

Well, here it is April the first and I hope this finds you in the best of health and also hope that you had a wonderful day being that you have had a birthday. I just hope and pray that I am with you on your next one, and the way things are going now, I will be. I haven’t heard from you in a good while now. I guess it is because I have moved on over here in Italy and my mail hasn’t caught up with me yet. How is the little old house, have you made much changes since I was there last time? I guess you have. Honey, I received a V-mail letter from Louise today. She seems to be getting along OK. Say Darling, have you heard from sister Kate lately? I haven’t heard from her since I’ve been overseas. It seems she would drop me a line by now. How is Doc and Ma getting along? Well, I hope. Darling I wish you would thank all of your family for me and let them know I received all the Easter cards they sent. Well Darling, I will have to close for this time. So, write me all you can and I will do the same. I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

Johnnie’s sister, Louise Marston

Extended family members are always on Johnnie’s mind. He asks about several in his April 7, 1944 V-mail.

My Dear Darling Wife,

Just a few lines to let you know I am thinking of you and hope that this finds you well. I received a letter from Louise today. Sure was glad to hear that she, Baby Sis, and also the Baby are getting along alright. Darling, has Nell ever come back from visiting Robert yet? I guess she has by this time. Has Mickey heard any more about the Army? Let me know. How is the rest of the family? Is little Melvin growing any lately? Sure would like to see that little devil, Ha Ha. O’yeah honey, did you ever send me that wedding band? Sure would like to get it. Well Darling, will close for this time. I love you a million.

Johnnie

Melvin Stacks

Johnnie tells Lucile he recently sent pictures to her in his April 8, 1944 letter from Italy. He is also wondering where items are that she has sent to him.

My Dear Darling Wife,

Hello honey, I hope this finds you in the best of health. As for me, I am OK. I received two letters yesterday from Dad and his wife. Just one was really a letter. The other one had some clipping of the paper. Also had a couple of the two bel— [unreadable] which you get off of street cars and buses. I have never received the hankerchiefs or the other things you sent me. I sent you some pictures of some pals of mine that are in my outfit and one of my old company commander who went to the States. He was one swell guy: and a fighting fool. We all miss him. Well Honey, how is Mom Stacks? Is she able to get up and around good yet? What about the trouble with your Dad brother’s? How did it come out? OK, I hope. O say, have you ever received my watch and the rifle Dodge? You should have by now. O yeah, tell Nell I am still waiting for the picture of the baby. Also tell Dot to send me a picture of Carol. I would like to see how much she has changed since I last saw her. Well honey, I guess this is all the news for this time. So, keep writing and God bless you. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

An early photo of Leola (Mom) Stacks and her son Earl.
The dog on the running board is Trixie.

On April 8, 1944, the regiment was in a temporary camp near Mondragone, Italy conducting training in preparation of going into the front line. That same day, orders were received from Headquarters 85th Infantry Division to relieve the 351st Infantry of the 88th Division on April 11, 1944. Work immediately began to move troups and equipment into place to accomplish this. Things were getting busy for the regiment. On April 9, 1944, Johnnie warned Lucile in a V-mail that his writing time might soon be limited. According to Wikipedia, “… The 85th Division, under II Corps of the U.S. Fifth Army under Mark W. Clark, was committed to action as a unit, 10 April 1944, north of the Garigliano River, facing the Gustav Line, and held defensive positions for a month.”

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am thinking of you and hoping that this finds you well and OK. I received four letters from you today and I sure did feel good over it. Honey, maybe later on I won’t be able to write you as much as I have been writing you in the past. But I don’t want you to be worried about me cause you know I will write you every chance I can get. I received another letter from Louise today also. She said they are getting along OK. Well Darling, I will have to close for this time. So, write all you can and honey I love you a million.

Johnnie

March 28, 29, and 30, 1944

The regiment arrived in Naples, Italy on March 27, 1944, departing the same day by foot and convoy for Staging Area #1 in the vicinity of Bagnoli, Italy. They arrived at Staging Area #1 the same day and preparations began to “go into the line near Minturno, about 40 miles to the north.” On March 28, 1944 when things settled down, Johnnie wrote Lucile a V-mail, gently reminding her that there would be times when he could not write to her.

My Dear Darling,

Well, I finally got around to being able to write you a few lines once more. There isn’t anything wrong with me. I am as well as can be expected. But as you know I have told you in my other letters that there would be times when you won’t hear from me so regular and I know you understand that part. I hope this finds you in the best of health and I am also glad to hear that Mom Stacks is lots better. Give her my regards. I received the Easter card from you today. Also, three letters. The card was very nice. I know what you mean when you said you were looking over those letters I wrote you before we were married. I didn’t keep my promise to any of them, did I? I will do my best to make up a lot of things when we are back together again. I owe a lot to you. Will close. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Johnnie

Map of Italy with Naples circled in red (The World Factbook 2021, Washington, DC:
Central Intelligence Agency, 2021, public domain)

Johnnie wrote his March 29, 1944 letter from Italy on United States Navy stationery. He again changed “Navy” to “Army.” He had to use whatever paper was available. 

My Dearest Darling,

I am sorry I haven’t written you in the last few days but as I told you in my other letters, there will be days that I won’t be able to write. But don’t worry about me, for you know I will write you every chance I get. Darling I am in Italy now and I am OK and well. Honey, have you ever received any of the money I sent you? I guess you have by now. Darling, have you been having those pains lately. If so, please go see a doctor. That’s one thing I want you to do is to take care of your health. How are all the folks? Well, I hope. Tell them all hello for me. Well Darling I will have to close for this time. 

So, lots lots love, Johnnie

Johnnie had lots of questions in his March 30, 1944 letter to Lucile—13 in all.

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and OK and hope that this finds you the same. Darling, has Nell ever come back from visiting Robert yet? Are you both still working at the same place? I hope you never got on the night shift. Have you? How is Mickey and his girl getting along? Swell, I hope. Has Mickey heard anything from the Army yet? I hope not. How is Doc and Ma? Tell them I said hello. O’yeah, has that little Melvin grown any yet? Have you a picture of him taken recently? If so, send it to me. How is Dot and Drex and the baby getting along? Tell them to write me. Honey, has Grandma ever received the letter I wrote her? Let me know. Say, have you ever sent me those packages yet? I hope so. Have you ever heard from Louise yet? She wrote me and said she dropped you a line. I wonder how Evelyn ever came out with Ray. Have you heard? Well Darling, I will close for this time. So, keep writing. 

And lots lots love, Johnnie

Johnnie

When out of paper, you use what is available. Again, Johnnie crossed out “Navy” and wrote “Army” on this letter, something he did in several of his letters to Lucile.

Note the ‘Army Examiner” stamp in the bottom left corner of the envelope below.

Undated letters - mid-March 1944

Johnnie received tragic family news in March 1944. In an undated letter, he mentions the stabbing death of Leroy Stacks. On March 26, 1944, the Atlanta Constitution reported on the stabbing of 19-year-old Leroy from College Park following “an argument in the Blue Bird Inn, on the Roosevelt highway between College Park and Red Oak, Ga.” A 43-year-old local Fairburn, Georgia farmer named Melvin Lowry was indicted on murder. Leroy, Lucile’s paternal first cousin, was buried in College Park on March 27.

My Dearest Darling Wife,

I received your letter today telling me the bad news about Leroy Stacks being stabbed to death and I know it was a shock to you all. As for myself, I still can’t believe it. Another thing, I am sure they could have saved him if they would have rushed him to the hospital like you say. I am going to drop Aunt Lois a line and tell her how sorry I am to hear about him. I want you to let me know what they do to the guy that done it. Honey, it seems like everything happens to the Stacks family. The last two years, if you get what I mean, I just know your Mother is a nervous wreck again. Things like that really upset her and her being a nervous type anyway and I understand just how you feel about it all too. Please try to settle down again for my sake Darling. Well honey, I guess that’s all I will say about that. Well Darling, I will try and finish up on this today. I started still yesterday morning, but something came up and I had to quit writing and having had time to write no more till now. I don’t know whether I wrote you and said that I received a letter from Dot or not, but I did anyway. And she still seems like the Dot when I saw her last. You know honey, that girl goes through a lot and has been through a lot to stay as joyful as she does. She’s a swell kid and I think a lot of her. You can tell her that or either let her read this if you want. How is Mickey and his girls coming along? I am still waiting to hear from him. Did his girl go to Leroy’s funeral? I guess she did. O’yeah honey, you asked me in one of your letters if I care if you put the money I sent you on a stove. Honey, you do anything you want to with the money I send you. It doesn’t do me any good here and I want you to get the benefit of it. Get what I mean, Ha Ha? No kidding, go spend it the way you want to. Honey, is Irvin still down at Macon, Ga.? What did they ever do to him for staying at home away from camp so long? I don’t think you ever told me how he came out. Let me know, will you? O’yeah, what about sending me the papers once in a while, will you? I like to read about things going on back there. Well honey, I guess I will close for this time, so write me all the time you can, and I will try to do the same for you. Tell all the folks hello for me and to write. I miss you a lot Darling and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

 

The Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta, Georgia, March 26, 1944

In another undated letter to Lucile, Johnnie mentions Leroy, as well as the death of a man named Thurman who was killed in Italy on February 16. On March 24, 1944, the Atlanta Constitution reported the death of Henry Grady Thurman, a “paratrooper from Red Oak,” the same area of Georgia that Johnnie and his family lived. 

My Dearest Darling,

I received another letter from you today and in it, you were telling me about the Thurman boy being killed in action over here in Italy. Gee, it seems when bad news starts coming my way it really comes. First LeRoy and now him. I guess it really shocked his family. Sorry to hear about it. Well, I will quit on that. How is this letter finding you? A lot better I hope and over your nervous spell. I hope so. It really makes me feel bad when I know you are not well. I don’t know what would happen to me if you got hurt. I really miss you Luke and God knows how much I care and love you. Maybe we will get a break for us both pretty soon. I hope and pray it will be so. Well Darling, I received a package from Dad and also a letter from him. They are getting along OK. I also received the cigarettes you sent. I want to thank you a lot for the cigarettes. I just hope I get the ring OK. Well Darling, how is the rest of the family? Well, I hope. Tell them all hello for me and tell Grandma I have never received an anwer from her letter I wrote her. Well Darling, I will close for this time so keep writing and I will try to do the same. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie 

H. G. Thurman, Killed in Italy, The Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta, Georgia, March 24, 1944

We cannot be sure when the next letter was written but Johnnie mentions receiving the ring and cigarettes referenced in his March 24, 1944 letter so this is as good a spot as any to place this letter. Johnnie was using U.S. Navy letterhead so crossed out “Navy” and wrote Army. He was probably using stationery from the ship they were traveling on.

My Dearest Darling

Receive letter from you today and was sure glad to get it after not receiving any from you in the last five days. I am glad to hear that you have been getting my letters pretty regular. But I hope you understanded later on why you won’t be receiving many letters from me, as you know I won’t have time to write you as regular as I have been doing. If I am right, I told you in the last letter I wrote you that I had receive the ring and cigarettes. Honey as I told you in my other letters, whenever you do have pains or sick I want you to go to a doctor. Because I don’t won’t anything to happen to you, regardless of anything else. I hope you understand me Lou you will have to write me, if I expect to get any mail at all because no one else does and I am not kidden either, Ha Ha. The letter I receive from you today just took seven days to get to me and that not bad at all is it. Lou, you said in this letter I just receive from you? That you try to do what I want you to do, I am sure you do Baby and that what makes me love you so. I am sorry to hear about Cecil and Drextel. I hope they don’t have to come in. Do you think they will? I kindy believe Cecil will. But Drex having that breathing trouble he might not make it. I hope when you do go to town this weekend, you try to find me a watch, I hating to ask you for those other things in the letter I wrote you before but I want them, and they will come in handy over here. I hope you don’t think I am asking you to get me anything foolish. Honey you remember that little picture holder you give me back at Trenton N.J. well I had a small picture of you in it and that little glass that fit in it came out and I lost the picture of you. I really hated to lose that picture of you because it was the best picture I ever had of you. What I mean by that is that picture look more like you, when I last saw you. Say honey when are you going to sit down and get other things off of your mind, and write me more then two pages in a letter. Latey I been reading them over two or three times, letting the fellows think I receive a long letter from you, Ha Ha. I know I been writing a lots of V mails to you lately but that all I have time for lately. One thing though, when I do have time to write you like I want to, I really try to write you everything that on my mind. I guess you notice that by this one, I am writing now. Well, I guess you are pretty busy and tired from working all day and want to get a little sleep and the guy here want his pen, so I will close. Tell the family hello for me and give them my love. I miss you alots. Baby and I love you a millions always. 

Johnnie

March 16 and 18, 1944

Four days passed before Johnnie wrote to Lucile again. On March 16, 1944, he sent a V-mail questioning who addressed her recent letter to him.

Hello Darling,

I hope this finds you well, as I am OK. Honey, I received a letter from you a couple of days ago and I know you didn’t address it. Whoever did, had our name spelled wrong. They had it spelled Marriston. From now on, what about you taking time to address your letters to me, Ha Ha. Have you ever received the money I sent you? How are all the folks? Well, I hope. Well Darling, I will close for this time. Hoping to hear from you soon. Keep writing.

Lots lots love, Johnnie

Johnnie has asked about a ring several times and in his March 16, 1944 letter to Lucile, we finally learn that he is talking about a wedding ring. 

My Dear Darling Wife,

Just a few lines hoping this finds you well and getting along OK. As for myself, I am OK, except missing you alot and thinking about you all the time. Say Darling, have you ever sent me that wedding band yet? Sure hope it fits me. That reminds me, honey, the first of next month is your birthday. I haven’t forgot and I can’t send you nothing from over here as there is nothing to send. But I will send you some money for you to get yourself something. Honey, I want you to send me the paper once in a while. I would like to read what’s going on in Atlanta once in a while. Especially the ball games, Ha Ha. O’yeah Darling, did Frances ever get my letter I wrote her? Or Cecil or Ginnie Maude? I hope they answer it. Sure would like to hear from them. What about Mickey? I thought he would drop me a line by now. I wrote a letter to the gang that works up at the lumber company. Have they ever received it yet? Honey, I received a birthday card from Dot last week and I wrote her and Drex a couple of days before I received the card. Tell Dot I said thanks alots and I thought it was swell. Well Darling, I will close for this time. 

Lots lots love always, Johnnie

Johnnie’s sister-in-law, Dot Stacks

Johnnie shows concern for Lucile in his March 18, 1944 V-mail. She has been experiencing pains of some sort.

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am thinking of you and hope this finds you well. Darling, please, if you have those pains every month like you say, go see a doctor. It really makes me feel bad to hear that you are sick like that. Honey, I received all the Easter greeting cards that your family sent. They were all very nice. Will close for this time. 

May God bless you and lots lots love, Johnnie

John wrote Lucile’s parents a V-mail on March 18, 1944 to share his appreciation for all the Easter greetings he received.

Hello Folks,

Received the Easter greeting card and was very glad to get it. I could send you something but as it is I can’t. I can say though I wish you both a good Easter and I hope to be with you both the next one. It really made me feel good to get all the Easter greeting cards from all the family. I am going to try and write them all and tell them how much I appreciate hearing from them all. Well Doc, it won’t be long till the ball season is opening again. I hope Atlanta comes out on top. 

Lots lots love to you both, Johnnie

The regiment departed Camp St. Denis du Sig in Algeria via convoy on March 23, 1944, arriving in Oran, Algeria later that day. After spending the night in Oran, they departed there on March 24, 1944 via the USS Florence Nightingale, “a Maritime Commission type C3-M cargo ship”, and the USS Lyon, “a type C3 ship of the United States Navy,” both according to Wikipedia. It is not known which ship Johnnie was on. 

USS Florence Nightingale (AP-70) (public domain)

 USS Lyon (AP-71) (public domain) 

March 7, 10, and 12, 1944

Johnnie sounded impatient when he wrote Lucile a V-mail on March 7, 1944.

My Dearest Darling Baby,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and hope this finds you the same. Darling, you said that I would have to ask you in the letter to send me the ring, that you couldn’t send it, not unless I wrote and told you to. Honey, I have wrote you at least six letters asking you to send it. What do I have to do, come over there and get it in person? Tell those guys I said they better get on the ball and let you send that ring to me. It’s funny as the devil the rest of the fellows are getting packages and I can’t. Will close for this time.

Lots lots love, Johnnie 

His mood had changed by the time he wrote a March 10, 1944 V-mail to Lucile. It seems he enjoyed some family photos she had recently sent to him.

My Dearest Darling,

I received the picture of you and Earl and his girls and also little Nell. They sure are good of you all, especially the ones you are in. You still got what it takes, if you get what I mean, Ha Ha. Little old Earl really is looking good too. You know he is almost as good looking as me, Ha Ha. You know Nell sure looks like she has gained some weight. Has she? Well Darling, I guess I will close for this time. O’yeah, tell Earl I think he is doing alright.

Lots lots love, Johnnie 

Earl Stacks

Johnnie wrote a long letter the night of March 10, 1944 where he talked about getting letters from his father and his grandma.

My Dearest Darling,

I just received four letters from you and boy did it make me feel good. I hope this finds you well. As for myself, I am OK. Darling, you asked me in one of your letters if you sent me a watch would I think it would reach here OK. I believe if you get me a shock proof watch it would. Of course, it would have to be wrapped up good. Also, if you find one with a good reasonable price, go ahead and get it and send it to me. Honey, I have sent you about forty dollars in the last two months. Use it any way you want too for yourself. I will send you some every month. Darling, I received a letter from Daddy yesterday. He said he has sent me a box with candy, razor blades, cakes, and some cigarettes in it. Pretty nice, don’t you think? I haven’t even written him yet. I am going to drop him a line as soon as I finish this to you. Honey, you said that Mrs. Sewell was putting more on where you work. If she does put you on night shift, I want you to quit and I mean it too. I never have liked you working up there anyway. If you do quit, don’t start back at that first place you were working either. That’s worse. I hope you do as I say and I know you will. I believe every word you write and I want you to do the same for me. I hope we understand each other by now. Well, I guess that’s about all I have to say about that. How are Doc and Ma getting along? Do you know whether they ever received an air mail letter from me or not? I guess they have by now. Honey, the last letter I got from grandma she was telling me about what a good wife I had. I wrote back and told her I knew what a good wife I had and that there was none better and I tell you one thing, that’s the truth if I never told the truth before. Then she got to talking about what a lucky girl you were to get a guy like me. Well Darling, I can’t say anything on that because of one thing that happened since we’ve been married. But I know one thing, if there was a man that cared and loved a women as much as I Love You, I have never heard about it. Well I will close for now leaving that in your mind.

With lots lots love, Johnnie 

Johnnie’s paternal grandma, Mattie Powell Marston

Johnnie wrote a short V-mail on March 12, 1944 where he mentions a photo of Lucile someone painted.

My Dear Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am thinking of you and hoping that this finds you well. I received the little photo of you. But I don’t think it looked much like you. You are much better looking than that. Whoever painted the picture didn’t do such a good job of it either. Do you think so? Say honey, have you ever received any of the money I sent you yet? Let me know. How are all the folks? Well, I hope. Tell them all hello for me. Will close for this time.

Lots lots love, Johnnie

February 25, March 4 and 6, 1944

Lucile must be very busy at home. On February 25, 1944, Johnnie wrote a V-mail to Lucile and complains that he still has not received a letter from her.

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines hoping this finds you well, as I am OK. Honey, it has been a week and a half since I heard from you. I was receiving mail from you pretty regular, but darn it, I don’t know what’s the matter now. I am sure it isn’t your fault because I know you will write me every chance you can. I sure hope to hear from you tomorrow. How is my mail coming to you? I have been writing you every chance I get. Well, I will close. Will try to write you tomorrow. 

Lots love, Johnnie

Now Johnnie is the busy one. When he sat down to write Lucile a V-mail on March 4, 1944, it had been seven days since he wrote his last letter to her.

My Dearest Darling,

Received a letter and birthday card from you today. The card sure was nice. Thanks alot. You never have said whether you received that money I sent. I sent you some more this month. Honey, I hope your back is lots better by now. If it keeps giving you trouble, go to a doctor and don’t wait too long about it either. Well Darling, I guess I will close for this time. Tell all the folks I said hello. 

Lots lots love to you, Johnnie 

Not much was going on when Johnnie wrote Lucile on March 6, 1944. He had recently been scolded by his father for not writing. He also asked about his first cousin, Arnold Pair.

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am thinking of you and hoping this finds you well. I received a letter from Louise and Dad a couple of days ago. They really got on me for not writing. I am going to try to drop them a few lines as soon as I finish this to you. You never have said whether you have received that money I sent you. I guess you have got it by now. I also received a letter from Grandma Marston. I have got to drop her a line too. I hope your hair suits you when you have it fixed this time. Be sure and send me a picture of you right away. O yeah, Dad said that Arnold was back in the States. Did he come by the house? Well darling, I guess I will close for this time. 

 Lots lots love to you, Johnnie

Johnnie’s grandparents, John and Mattie (Powell) Marston

  

Arnold Pair

Nell remembered Johnnie’s birthday with a card, something that surely made him happy. He sent a V-mail to her on March 6, 1944 to let her know what it meant to him.

My Dearest Sister-in-Law,

I received the nice birthday card and I wish there was some way to show you how much I appreciate you thinking of me on my birthday. Maybe when I get back to the States, I can slip you a kiss, Ha Ha. Be sure and don’t let your old man hear of it, or Luke either one, because I will catch the devil then, Ha Ha. No kidding Nell, thanks alots again and the next letter you write Bob tell him I said hello and send me his address.

Lots lots love, Johnnie

Robert and Nell

Johnnie had a busy day on March 6, 1944. His also wrote a V-mail to Lucile’s parents to thank them for his birthday card.

Hello Folks,

Received the birthday card and sure was proud of it. Thanks a lot. Well, how does this letter find you young people by now? In good health and getting along fine I hope. I am glad to hear you got the car back. Does it ride any better? Tell Doc I said to keep it in good running condition because we will have to have it to go see our girls in it, Ha Ha. How are all the kids? Well, I hope. Tell them all hello for me. Well, I guess this is all for this time.

Lots lots love, Johnnie

February 21, 22, 23, and 24, 1944

Johnnie sent a V-mail to Lucile on February 21, 1944, worried about her because she has apparently been sick. 

My Dearest Darling,

I received one of your letters yesterday you wrote the first of this month telling me about your sickness. Honey, I wish you would go to the doctor and have a check up on yourself. Will you do that? Yes, I remember the last time you had those pains. That was one time I was scared to death and believe me that one time I would have gone through anything than to know what you went through. Honey, please take care of yourself and try not to worry too much about me.

Lots lots lots love, Johnnie

He sent another V-mail on February 22, 1944, hoping to receive pictures she’s supposed to send him.

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines letting you know I am thinking of you and wondering just what you are doing this moment. Darling, I have never received the pictures, yet you said you were going to send and it has been about a month ago since you wrote and said you was sending them. I hope I get them one day this week. Has Nell ever come back yet? Tell her to drop me a line. How are all the folks? Well, I hope. Tell them all is well for me. Well honey, it is getting pretty late, so I will close for this time. May God Bless You.

Lots lots love, Johnnie

Nell, Jennie (Drummond) Stacks (Cecil's wife), and Lucile 

Johnnie sent a short V-mail to Lucile on February 23, 1944, his birthday, something he did not mention when he wrote to her.

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and hoping this finds you feeling much better than the last time I heard from you. Honey, did you go to the doctor? Let me know in your next letter. I haven’t felt well since you wrote and told me about your sickness. Darling, please take care of yourself and one more thing, please watch out and be careful where you are working. Those mechanics are dangerous.

Lots lots love, Johnnie

A day without a letter from home makes for an unhappy soldier. Johnnie was doing his best to encourage Lucile to write more in his February 24, 1944 letter.

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines hoping this finds you well, as it leaves me OK as far as health is concerned. Well Darling, just a few more days and the month of February will be gone. And just yesterday I had another birthday and you know yours is just over a month from now. Sure wish I had something to send you, to show you I haven’t forgot. Darling, you know I wouldn’t forget you if I was back in the States. When I do come back, that will be one great day for me. I hope it won’t be so long from now. Say honey, did Nell go back with Robert? I guess she’ll be back home again by the time you get this. O yeah, I wrote Cecil and Ginnie Maude the other day. Also, Dot and Drex. Don’t think to yourself if he can write them, he can write me more? Because Darling, I wrote you two letters that day, one a V mail and one Air Mail. I try to write you everyday I can. I hardly ever go over two days without not writing you. I hope you are doing the same. We just had mail call and I didn’t receive any. I haven’t heard from you in a good while now. For a while I was getting a couple of letters a week from you. I guess it is held up somewhere, the reason I am not hearing from you lately. If I have a way, I am going to send you some more money this month. It isn’t much good over here. Have you heard from Kate lately, or seen her? Tell her to drop me a line. Would like to hear from her and the kids. How is Doc and Ma? Did they ever get my letter? How are all the kids? Is Mickey still stepping out with his girl friend? Has little Gearl ever found one that will go with him, Ha Ha? Don’t tell him I said that. Well Darling, I guess I better close for this time. Hoping to hear from you tomorrow and all my love to all and Lots Lots Love to You. 

Johnnie 

Kate and friends

February 14, 19, and 20, 1944

It was Valentines Day, February 14, 1944 and Johnnie had Lucile on his mind. He sat down at noon and penned a letter to her letting her know what she meant to him.

I hope you can read this okay.

My Dearest Darling,

Well, here it is Valentine’s Day, the fourteenth. I don’t remember but if I am not mistaken, you were with me in Texas the last time. Am I right? If things all go well, I may be with you next Valentine’s Day. Let’s hope for the best that it may be so. Honey, I guess you have received the money I sent you by now. I am going to send you some every month that’s possible. If you need it to get you anything, use it. But you wrote me and said you were going to save the checks you get every month because you said you could live off what you made where you work. I received three letters from you a couple of days ago. One of them you were telling me about you and Drexter and Dot and the rest of the crowds going down to see Irvin. I am glad to hear you are enjoying yourself Lou. That’s what I want you to do, to keep your mind clear of all this. I know you know how to take care of yourself and I know you will. Say, you said in one of your letters that we might have a sister-in-law soon. Tell Mickey I said to go right to it, Ha Ha. One thing, if he does get her, I don’t care if she’s an angel, none of them will compare to you, Lou. I mean that more than I have ever meant anything in my life. Honey, I received the stamps you sent in the letter. Thanks a lot. Honey, all I want you to do is keep things going and I will be around soon. Would give anything if that ring had come on over. I am sure it’s a dandy. Well Darling, I will have to close for this time. So, tell all the folks I said hello. And you Darling, I miss you a hell of alots but I will make up for it when things kind of quieten down.

Lots lots love, Johnnie 

Earl (Mickey) and Elvie Stacks

Before Valentines Day came to an end, Johnnie found time to write a short V-mail to Lucile.

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines wanting to know if you are well. Hope you had a grand Valentines Day. Did you have to work? I have just finished an air mail letter to you. I guess you will receive this first though. Have you been getting mail from me pretty regular, concerning where I am at now? How are all the folks? Well, I hope. Tell Doc and family I said hello. Well, I guess this is all for this time.

So, lots lots lots love, Johnnie 

(click to enlarge)

Compliments to your wife probably go a long way down the road. In his February 19, 1944 letter, Johnnie sent one Lucile’s way. He also mentions that he is eating well and that the food is good.

I miss you Darling

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know everything is going OK, and I hope you are well and making it alright and also keep the little home up that we had such a grand time while I was at home. You say you are painting the front room over again. I bet it looks nice. You always could keep things so nice looking, no matter what is was. It is just like I have always said. I wouldn’t give a penny for another one like you, but I wouldn’t take a million dollars for you now, Ha Ha. You said in one of your letters that you went to a weiner roast over at Verger house. I am glad you enjoyed yourself, sorry I couldn’t be with you. Maybe not so long now. Things are looking lots better anyway. Don’t you think? Say what about getting me a carton of cigarettes and send them to me once in a while. They are not so plentiful over here. Tell Doc and all the folks I hope they are all well. Give them my love. Have you seen Kate lately? Tell her I would drop her a line but I have lost her address. If you know it, send it to me. I have just finished eating supper. We are getting plenty to eat here and it really good food. You say they are about to start rationing clothes. If so, you better drag you up a stock of them. Well Darling as this is all I can write right now, I will close. Hoping to hear from you soon.

Lots lots love Johnnie

P.S. Take good care of yourself for my sake Darling.

Johnnie’s sister Kate and friend (years earlier)

In Johnnie’s February 20, 1944 letter, he told Lucile about his dreams for a house for the two of them.

Dearest Darling

Just a few lines to let you know I am thinking of you and hope you are well. It seems a long time since I saw that sweet smile of yours, but I want ever forget the way you looked the last night I saw you. You were swell about it all. Lou, I am glad to hear from you, that I am on even terms with you again and I hope I can stay that way. You know what I am talking about I am sure. Well Darling, just three more days and I will be twenty-four years old. Time sure does fly after you get in your twenties, Ha Ha. I haven’t heard from you in a good while now. I am sure it’s not your fault though. I guess they are just holding up the mail somewhere. I am sorry to hear you have lost some weight, but I am sure you will gain it back later on. Lou, I don’t believe there is a night that goes by since I have been over here that I don’t think about you, wondering what you are doing, and hoping and praying that you are all right. I know if Nell goes back with Robert that it is going to be lonely without her. But maybe she won’t stay there too long. Honey, you know that house your Dad built, right below Frances and Woodrow? That is something like I hope to have someday for me and you. And if I get through this and if it is the Lord’s will, I hope to have something like that someday. I have had my mind on it ever since I saw the one he built. Well Darling, I guess I will have to close for this time. So, tell all the folks hello for me and give them my love. Tell Doc and Ma and all the kids I sure miss them, but I hope it won’t be for long and also Darling to you. Love Lots Love

Johnnie

February 8 and 9, 1944

True to his word, Johnnie wrote Lucile a longer letter on February 8, 1944 and let her know he daydreamed of her and wanted her to save money so he could take it easy for a bit after he came home.

My Dearest Darling,

Well, here it is another day gone by and as I said in that V-mail I sent you yesterday that I would follow it with an air mail letter, so here goes. Darling, I hope this finds you well and in good health. Gee, it seems ages since I saw you, even though it has just been about four months ago. You know I picture things you are doing back there, all during the day. I hope I picture things right. You never wrote me yet, or rather I haven’t received any mail from you saying whether you changed jobs or not. And another thing honey, do you really want to go to Florida? Not that I care whether you go or not, but you mentioned in one of your letters that you wanted to go down there after you found out I have arrived safely over here and then in another letter you wrote me you said you were going to start saving all the checks you receive every month and live off what you made working. I wish you would make up your mind, Ha Ha. If I was you, I would try and save a little money because I am not going to hit a lick of work for awhile after I get out of this Army and we might need a little to keep us up, Ha Ha. No kidding though, I am going to send you ten or fifteen dollars more every month and I want you to put it away for me, regardless whether you save yours or not. There isn’t anything to spend money on over here, so I just as well send it to you. Well Babe, I hate to close this right now, but I have a little guard to do tonight, so goodnight and God Bless You.

Lots lots love always, Johnnie

Here is something I heard. It is from the bottom of my heart to you.

Close to you

I will always stay

Close to you

Though you are far away

You’ll always be near

As though you were here by my side

No matter where

In my dreams I find you there

Close to you

Sharing your caress

Can’t you see

You are my happiness

Wherever you go

My heart will go too

What can I do

I only want to be

Close to you

I wrote that in a hurry. I hope you can read it.

Love, Johnnie  

(click to enlarge)

In Johnnie’s February 9, 1944 letter to Lucile, he told her about his lucky keychain and the special name he had given to his rifle.

My Dearest Darling,

I received one of your letters yesterday and also one from your Mother. Sure was glad to hear from you both. Honey I hope this finds you in the best of health and as good and sweet as you have always been. I am glad you got you another coat and are getting you some more clothes before they ration them. I bet you look good in your coat. Be sure and don’t go off and leave that one somewhere, Ha Ha. I guess Robert has already come home and gone back by the time you get this. What did he say when you told him I was overseas? O yeah, tell Nell the key chain I kept when I sent the keys back home I have still got it and I am keeping it for luck, because it has a dice on it. Also tell her every time I look at it, I think of the swell time we had when I was home this last time. Honey I know you are afraid to send me a watch over here because it might not be in good shape when it gets to me. But I want one so bad I could kick myself every time I think about not getting one while I was back in the States. It really burns me up. I am glad you find time to write me every night. Keep it up because I feel so good when I receive a letter from you. I have been writing to you pretty regular lately and I will write you every chance I get. Yes honey, Doc and Mom have been swell to us. I just hope I can make it up to them someday. I sure would like to see that picture of me Carol is always making a fuss about. It must be one of the worst ones I have ever had made, Ha Ha. Well Darling, I will have to close for this time because I have to clean little Luke. That’s my rifle’s name, Ha Ha. Tell Everybody hello for me and God bless you all.

Lots lots love always, Johnnie 

Elvie (Orr) Stacks and Lucile

We do not know if the coat in the photo above is the one Lucile bought, but it very well could be. 

Johnnie wrote his mother-in-law a V-mail on February 9, 1944 to wish her and his father-in-law a happy birthday. Leola (Lemon) Stacks had celebrated her birthday on January 26 and Sam Stacks celebrated his on January 28.

Happy birthday to you both and many more of them.

Hello Mom,

I received your nice letter and was glad to hear you are all well again. I am sorry to hear about Frances and the baby having the flu. I hope by the time you receive this they are much better. I am going to drop Frances and Woodrow a line as soon as I finish this. Mom, I received the money you sent. Thanks a million. I wrote you and Doc an air mail letter last week, saying I received the money OK. I guess you haven’t received it yet. I hope Mary Ann is much better now. Tell all the kids hello for me and give them my love. Well, I guess this is all I can write for this time. 

So, lots lots love, Johnnie

 Leola Stacks

(click to enlarge)

February 4, 5, and 7, 1944

Johnnie’s next letter, written at noon on February 4, 1944, was full of questions.

My Dearest Darling,

Well, here it is another day about gone, and I just setting here wondering what you are doing. I have a little time and I am trying to write you a few lines. I received seven letters from you yesterday, dating on to the twentieth of December, on up to this date. I also received a letter from Grandma and your Mother. I am glad you thought about giving Grandma that pillow case. I shall be kicked for not sending her one anyway. You never told me whether you changed jobs or not. Let me know, will you? Has the weather changed any back there? What about Doc, is he still going to the wresting matches? Gee I hope Ma is a lot better. Give her my love. You said something about giving Dad one of my pictures. Are you talking about the ones I had made when I was home this last time? You never did tell me whether Robert came on a furlough home or not and what about little Nell? Tell her to drop me a line or two once in a while. Would like to have a picture of you, Nell, and Dot taken together and also a picture of Doc and Ma together. Tell the boys they could drop me a line or two once in a while. Sure would like to see little Melvin. Is he coming along OK? I guess he still rides a little piece with Doc every morning. Tell him I said Hello. Well Darling, I guess you think I am not writing enough this time but I want to try and drop your Mother a few lines and also Grandma. So, I will close, hoping to hear from you soon.

Lots lots love, Johnnie

Nell’s husband, Robert Astin

When Johnnie wrote Lucile’s parents on February 4, 1944, he again shared that he was somewhere in South Africa. He also had a lot of questions for his father-in-law, Sam Stacks.

Hello Ma and Doc,

Well, how does this letter find both of you? Well, I hope. Gee Ma, sure was sorry to hear about your sickness. Really glad to hear you are back on your feet again. As you know the old saying is you can’t keep a good woman down. Lou wrote me and told me about the doctor taking the cast off of Mary’s arm. I hope it came out OK. I am glad you like the pillow top and I want to thank you both for the two dollars. Really came in handy. Thanks again. O yeah, Ma, received a Christmas card from Aunt Agnes Jones. It sure was nice. I am going to try to drop her a line as soon as I finish this to you. O yeah, Ma, I want you and Doc to have a small photo made together and send it to me. I told Lucile to make you both have one made together. If she doesn’t get on you both about it I am going to be mighty mad at her. Well Ma, I would like to ask Doc a few questions so be sure and read this part to him. Doc, I would like to know if Atlanta is going to have a baseball team this year and if so, what do you think about them? Is there any chance of them winning many games? And Doc, what about the wrestling matches? Are there any new guys wrestling? Let me know. How is the sawmill coming? I hope everything is running swell there. How are all the gangs that work there? Tell them all hello for me. Doc, I don’t know whether Lucile told you all or not, but in case you don’t know, I am somewhere in North Africa, and this is really some country. Give me the good ole U.S.A. anytime, Ha Ha. Well Doc and Ma, I will close for now but before I close, I want to thank you both for everything you have done for Lucile and I and maybe someday we can make it up to you both. 

Lots lots love, Johnnie

Johnnie’s V-mail to Lucile dated February 5, 1944 had an APO #85 postmark. Wherever he was, he let Lucile know that there was a six-hour time difference. 

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines wanting you to know everything is going well with me. If anything, I just miss you a hell of alots. I hope this finds you in good health and also don’t want you worrying about me. I don’t know whether you know it or not but here we are six hours ahead of your time. It is one o’clock at noon now. That would put it seven o’clock there, so I guess you are just getting ready to go to work or do you work on Saturday or not? Have you ever received the letter from me asking about a photo of you and also some stamps? You should have by now. I mailed it over three weeks ago. Well Darling, I guess this is all the news for this time. 

So, lots lots love, Johnnie

February 6, 1944 was another day of travel with the regiment departing from Camp St. Denis du Sig via truck convoy heading for Port Aux Poules, Algeria, Africa. They remained at that camp through late March, devoting their training periods to amphibious operations.

What treat would make a soldier happy? Well, apparently some candy or a fruit cake. At least that is what Johnnie suggested in his V-mail dated February 7, 1944.

My Dearest Darling,

Just a few lines hoping you are well. This leaves me OK. Darling, to send me anything over here, like I hope you do, something like candy or maybe a fruit cake, just show the postman I am asking for you to send it. Honey, I have a birthday this month and you know the Old Boy is kindy getting old, Ha Ha. You shall receive this in the next ten days. As soon as I finish this, I am going to write you an air mail letter, a good long one. Tell all hello for me. So, lots lots love.

Always, Johnnie 

February 7, 1944 V-mail (click to enlarge)

January 16, 28, 30, and undated, 1944

The regiment arrived at Camp St. Denis du Sig on the northern coast of Algeria, Africa on Sunday January 16, 1944 and began intensive mountain warfare training. Johnnie found time at noon that day to write a letter to Lucile. He missed her and the rest of the family.

My Dearest Darling,

Well, I finally got time to write you again. I hope this finds you well. As for myself I am OK. Only I miss you a hell of alots and the good old U.S.A. These Arab people sure are hard to get used too, and they are always wanting something or either sale you something. Say, just because you don’t hear from me much now, as you used to, I don’t want you to slack off writing. Write to me as often as you did in the States when I was there. O yeah, send me a couple of books of airmail stamps as soon as you get this letter. How are all the folks at home? Give them my love. Darling I hope you are well and for my sake take care of yourself. And please don’t worry about me. Is Nell still staying with you? Are you both still working? Has Robert ever come home yet? How is Earl and his gal getting along? OK, I hope. I just went to mail call and received the Christmas card and five letters from you. It sure did make me feel good. Well Darling, as it is getting pretty late, I will close. Hoping to hear from you soon. Lots lots love.

Always, Johnnie

P.S. Tell all the folks to write me and let me know how they are getting along. Love Johnnie

Johnnie only had a few minutes to write Lucile on January 28, 1944, but he wanted her to know he was thinking about and missing her.

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and hoping this finds you the same. Darling, is everything going OK back at home with you? I hope so, I really miss you. I miss you more than ever when I think about the swell times we had when we were together. It really gets a guy blue. Say did you and your Mother receive those pillow slips I sent? If so, I hope you both like them. Say just before I left, I received a New Years card from Demp and his wife. Is he back in the States or do you know? Well Darling, I will have to cut this letter short for this time but will write more next time. God Bless You and all the folks. 

Lots lots love, Johnnie

Johnnie and Demp

Another month has come and gone with Johnnie being away from his beloved Lucile. On January 30, 1944 he had time to write a longer letter than he had lately. He ended it by hinting at a gift idea for his upcoming birthday.

My Dearest Darling,

Well, here it is just one more day in the month of good old January. I believe this is about the longest month I have ever been through. I guess it is because I don’t hear from you as much as I used to while I was in the States. I received one of your letters yesterday. Boy it really feels good to receive a letter from home now. Gee honey, I hope this finds you OK. As long as I know you are alright and well, that’s all I care about. You said in this letter I just received that the picture of you, Dot, and I was good. I sure would like to see it and also the one I had made at the studio while I was home. I bet that one looked like the devil, Ha Ha. It must be bad if little Carol is making fun of it all the time, Ha Ha. Me and her never could get along so well, while I was at home anyway, Ha Ha. Sure would like to see her. Hope she don’t look like her Mother when she gets grown, Ha Ha. Don’t tell Dot that, she’ll shoot me when she sees me again. How are Dot and Drextel getting along anyway. I hope OK. Tell them I said hello and for them to quit that darn fighting and fussing. I bet right this minute they are arguing like the devil. I guess they couldn’t get along if they didn’t argue or fuss though. That’s marriage life I guess. You and I don’t know so much about that part of it. O yeah, you say your cousin Evelyn had another kid. Gee, she’s doing alright for herself isn’t she. If you see her, tell her if she keeps that up she will soon have a army all her on, Ha Ha. Tell her I hope she makes it OK. Honey I guess Ma Stack’s and Doc are kindy mad because I haven’t dropped them a line. Well, I should have written them by now, but by the time I finish a letter for you, I have to do something else before I can write again. Tell them I am sorry I haven’t written and I am thinking about them all the time and that I will write to them as soon as possible. Honey you know that postcard picture of you? The one you sent me when I was back in the states. It got tore someway in half. Wish you would send me another one of you right away. I have a small one of you. I wear around my neck, but it’s about faded out. As you know my birthday is next month and that is about the best thing you can send me. Well Darling as I am out of paper as you can see, I will close for this time.

Lots lots lots love, Johnnie

P.S. Tell everybody hello for me and to write.

 

Dorothy (Dot) Stacks, Johnnie, and Lucile

The next letter was undated but appears that Johnnie was already overseas. Unfortunately, his son did not know anything about the ring mentioned in the letter.

My Dearest Wife

Hello Darling receive letter from you yesterday. That makes three I have received from you in the last two weeks. Boy it really makes me feel good to receive mail from you, so regular, being as I am so far from you now. I can’t understand why you haven’t receive any mail from me lately. I have wrote you at least ten or twelve letters in the last four weeks. Maybe when you do get them, you will get three or four at a time. You ask me in this letter if I remember your girlfriend name Dot, back in Texas. Yes, I remember her, glad to hear that you are still hearing from her. Maybe later on we will go back to Texas and visit some of our old friends or a pleasure trip would be nice, wouldn’t it. Oh yeah, remember that ring you give me back in Texas. Well I still have it. You can say one thing, it really been places, Ha Ha. No kidding though. Every time I look at this ring it bring back alots of sweet remember, of the time we had together. I have never taken it off since the day you put it on my finger. It going to stay there till the day I come back then I will let you take it off for luck. Darling don’t keep your mind on what may happen to me, keep your chin up for I am OK and well. O yeah and if my picture ever get into the papers of the boys that serving oversea, send it to me. I like to see it. I am sending you a small photo of me and a friend of my, that we had made when we was back in the States. I am sending it to you and I want you to take all the pictures you have of me and hang them all over you. So though four-F guys back there will take one look at you and run like Hell, Ha ha. Well Darling I have run short of news for this time so I will close. Tell Doc and his big family Hello for me and give them my Love.

God Bless You Darling

Lots Lots Love, Johnnie