January 23, 24, and 26, 1945

On January 23, 250 replacements were assigned to the regiment for training. They were assembled in a tent camp at Service Company. Under the leadership of Major Hugh R. Ballantine, a representative cadre initiated an intensive period of instruction for the new recruits.

During Johnnie’s time in Italy, Lucile’s younger sisters, Mary (aged 13) and Betty (approximately 9), both corresponded with him. On January 23, 1945, Johnnie replied to Mary’s letter using a V-mail.

Hello Mary,

Just a few lines to let you know I received your letter today and was glad to hear from you and to know you are well and OK. I received yours and Betty’s letters the same day. I can understand how you feel about wanting school to hurry up and end this year. I used to be the same way, Ha Ha. I am glad to hear you had a good Christmas. I am glad to hear that Nell and the baby are well. Give my regards to her for me, OK? You will have to excuse my writing. My hands are cold. Tell all the folks I said hello.

Lots lots love, Johnnie

Mary and Betty Stacks

Johnnie’s brief V-mail on January 24, 1945, covered a wide range of topics: babies, money, and socks.

My Dear Darling,

I received a letter from you today that was mailed the fourth of this month. Also, in it was a line from Dot. She really brags on that baby of hers, don’t she? I don’t blame her though. I guess you and me would be the same way if we had one, right? I am glad to hear the money I sent you helped you pay up on your bills and I hope you can get yourself something nice with the rest of it. I am glad you understand me about those socks I told you to get for me. From what I hear from the other guys in my outfit, you can’t get what I want anyway. Well honey, I will close for now. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Johnnie

Lucile

Johnnie attempted to assist Lucile in unraveling the mystery of a letter she received from an individual with the last name Marston. Despite his efforts, Johnnie could not provide a solution. However, he recommended that Lucile seek answers from his father, as mentioned in his V-mail to her on January 26, 1945.

My Dear Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I received two letters from you today. Also, one from Louise and Aunt Sue. In one of your letters, you said you received a letter from a J. M. Marston of Lindale, Ga. I am not sure, but it could be my Uncle, Dad’s brother. His initials are J. M. I am sure. But I didn’t know he lived in Lindale. Go see Dad. He will tell you. I received a letter from Mom Stacks yesterday. I was really glad to hear from her and to know she’s much better. Aunt Sue and Grandma want to know why you don’t drop out and see them sometime. You better call them and let them know how busy you have been here lately, Ha Ha. Will close. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Johnnie

On January 26, 1945, Johnnie sent a V-mail to Lucile’s mother, expressing his joy at learning that she was feeling better after a bout of illness.

Dear Mom Stacks,

I received your letter a day or so ago. But I didn’t have time to answer it till now. It really made me feel good to know you are able to get up a little bit and write to let me know how you feel personally. I am glad you are on your way back to being in good health once more. Yes, I couldn’t, or any other guy as far as that, Lucile is doing for me in taking care of things while I am away. I wouldn’t take a million for her and I wouldn’t give a dime for another like her, Ha Ha. Don’t tell her that, Ha Ha.

Lots lots love, Johnnie 

Leola Stacks

January 2, 20, and 23, 1945

Click here to read the Operations Report by the 337th Infantry Regiment for January 1945.

At the start of the new year, the regiment established a temporary camp north of Lucca. Positioned to support the 92nd Division, commanders devised strategies to fend off enemy attacks in the Serchio Valley or hold successive defensive lines. Officers and non-commissioned officers conducted ground reconnaissance, ready to execute plans at a moment’s notice. Meanwhile, the troops maintained light training, aligned with the half-hour alert status.

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

Johnnie’s January 2, 1945 letter included a couple of specific food requests: canned chicken legs and chocolate cake.

My Dear Darling,

I hope this finds you in the best of health and everything going well back there at home at the start of this new year and I hope and pray this year brings us back together again. I guess by now you have started back to work being that Mom Stacks is a lot better. I received a letter the other day from Louise. She was telling me about how she was gaining weight. She said she weighs a hundred and ten now and that her health was better than it has been in a long time. O yeah, you know Uncle Ernest? Well Louise wrote me and said that he had got married again and little Tommy and Betty Jane was staying with him and his wife. Buddy is in the Navy. Has she ever written you and said anything to you about any of this? O say, the watch you sent me. Something has gone wrong with it. If I can, I am going to send it back to you to have it fixed and I want you to have me a new band put on it also, OK? By the way, have you ever got the money I sent you yet? Hope so. Say, be sure and tell Mom Stacks the next time they kill a couple of chickens to send me the legs if there is some way for her to can it. The last letter she wrote me she said something about it. I really miss your chocolate cakes. When I get back, you’re going to make them and make them till wherever I look I will see them, Ha Ha. Say, has the baby arrived yet? I mean Nell’s baby, or babies, Ha Ha. She didn’t have two, did she? Ha Ha. Be sure and tell her just to show her my pictures and she won’t have no trouble at all with the baby, Ha Ha. Well honey, I will close for now. Keep writing. Tell all hello for me. God bless you. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

Johnnie’s sister, Louise

On January 6, 1945, an order was received to return to the Gagliano area and prepare to relieve the 36th British Brigade. The next day, the 1st Battalion, along with Company E, moved by truck to a forward assembly area at Casalino. On January 9, Cannon Company positioned their howitzers near Casetto, and Companies B and C relieved the 8th Battalion of the Argyles and Sutherland Highlanders on Montecalderaro.

Packs are loaded onto trucks by men of Company C, 1st Battalion,
337th Regiment, 85th Infantry Division in preparation for the movement
of their command post to another area, Ponte Moriano area, Italy,
January 6, 1945. Photographer: Thomas, 3131st Signal Service Company.
Public domain.

Two members of Company C, 1st Battalion, 337th Regiment,
85th Infantry Division roll their bed rolls in preparation to leave their
command post for a new area. Behind them several other men are carrying
equipment down from their living quarters. Two small Italian boys
look on as the men work. Ponte Moriano area, Italy, January 6, 1945.
Photographer: Thomas, 3131st Signal Service Company.
Photo Source: U.S. National Archives. Digitized by Signal Corps Archive.
Public domain.

On January 10, the regiment advanced: the 2nd Battalion to Sassimo, the 3rd Battalion to Casalino, and Service and Antitank Companies to the Calabria region in southern Italy. That night, the reinforced 1st Battalion relieved the 6th Battalion of the Royal West Kents on Montecalderaro. On January 11, Companies F and I, both in reserve, assumed positions south of the Cuccoli Ridge, previously held by the 5th Buffs Battalion. After dark, Company G of the 2nd Battalion relieved the 1st Recoe Regiment on Marzolina, and the 3rd Battalion (minus one company) took over from the 2nd North Staffordshire Battalion on Farneto. At noon, command shifted from the 36th British Brigade to the 337th Infantry, and concurrently, the regiment became attached to the 1st British Division for operations.

The regimental zone spanned 6000 yards with a main line of resistance. It covered the Cuccoli-Farneto Ridge, the northwest slope of M Grande, and the Calderaro feature (Calanca, C Rovine, Vezzola, la Costa). Platoon strongpoints on Hills 425 and 386 guarded the draws on the left side of the sector. Ambush patrols blocked all approaches to the front line. Positions were fully manned at night and served as an outpost during the day. On days of poor visibility due to fog, snow, and rain, the night positions operated at 50 percent capacity. The regiment faced formidable enemy troops from the 1st Parachute Division, a top German unit in Italy. Despite appearing defensive, they recaptured M. Castellaro, a hill taken by our regiment in October. They also maintained control over Bursano, M. Mezzano, Poggio, and Bertochi.

On January 12, the 1st Battalion, 339th Infantry, joined the regiment as the reserve battalion. They prepared counterattack plans to restore the main line of resistance in case of enemy breakthrough. At 7:10 PM, enemy infiltrated near Calanca but were repelled. One enemy was captured, and one of our men was taken.

Between January 13 and 16, the regiment focused on enhancing defensive positions. They strategically positioned automatic weapons, registered defensive fires, and installed concertina wire entanglements and trip flares. On January 17, the regiment transitioned from the 1st British Division to the 85th Division. A rotation system limited front-line foxhole duty to 10 days. On the nights of January 19 and 20, the 1st Battalion, 339th Infantry, and Company F assumed positions on Montecalderaro, while Company E replaced Company F in the 2nd Battalion reserve.

Despite his inability to write to Lucile since January 2, Johnnie finally managed to send her a V-mail on January 20, 1945. His concerns about Lucile’s financial situation back home were coupled with excitement over Nell’s baby.

My Dear Darling,

Received a letter from you today and was glad to hear that you are well. In this letter you said something about you going back to your job again. I am sure after staying off so long helping your Mother and Nell you are short on money again. I will send you some as soon as I get the chance. As you know, every chance I get I send you some. I hope this finds all the rest of the family well and OK. Tell Nell I said to start teaching the baby to say Uncle Johnnie, Ha Ha. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Johnnie

Nell and Lucile holding their daughters (post-WWII)

On January 21, two platoons from Company A of the 100th Chemical Weapons Battalion positioned themselves in the Clemente Valley near Casalino, prepared to provide supporting fire. Simultaneously, the 3rd Battalion initiated a round-robin turnover, completing the process by daylight. Meanwhile, Company G, previously relieved by Company E on January 15, returned to its role in the 2nd Battalion reserve.

Johnnie, perplexed by the irregular delivery of Lucile’s letters, attempted to explain the situation in a letter he wrote on January 23, 1945.

My Dear Darling,

Well, here it is about gone, the first month of the year and my latest letter from you is the fourth of this month. Also, when I received your last letter, I got two that was mailed the second and fourth of Dec. Most all my mail from you is coming to me sort of crazy. More or less backwards. Some of the things you’re telling me in your letters I don’t even know what you are talking about. But I usually find out in some late mail. Get what I mean? I wrote Mary and little Betty a couple of letters last night. But I didn’t do so hot on the writing. My hands were so cold I could hardly hold the pen to write. I hope they can read it, Ha Ha. How is Mom Stacks and Doc? Tell them both I think of them often. How is Nell and the baby? Has she ever received the things I sent for the baby? What about you and Mom Stacks? How is Edna? Much better, I hope. Give her my regards. Tell Gearl I am sorry but I can’t send him my cigarette butts, Ha Ha. Has he started to smoke around his Dad yet? I am sure he has by now. Has Earl’s wife ever started to work where you are? I guess Nell’s time will be taken up by her baby now, right? Have you heard from Kate lately? I surely would like to drop her a line, but I don’t know her address. Do you? Well honey, I will have to close for now. Tell all the folks I said hello and God bless you. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie 

Earl’s wife, Elvie (Orr) Stacks

Christmas Day, December 27, 30, and 31, 1944

Over the next few days, the team conducted reconnaissance and formulated strategic plans.

The desire to be home for Christmas is universal—a longing to be surrounded by loved ones, baking sweet treats, and sharing cherished family traditions. But what if you find yourself over 5,000 miles away in Italy, where the familiar comforts of home seem impossibly distant?

On December 25, 1944, amidst the chaos of war, the Army stepped in to create a semblance of home for the 337th Regiment. They orchestrated a full-fledged Christmas dinner, a respite from the harsh realities of battle. The menu was a feast fit for the occasion: roast turkey, mashed potatoes, asparagus tips, cranberry sauce, giblet gravy, green peas, dressing, apple pie, and coffee. To sweeten the experience, there were mixed nuts and candy. Cigarettes were available for those who wanted to enjoy a smoke.

Each soldier received a program, a tangible connection to the festivities. On the back, the menu was listed. But it was the inside that held the true treasures—the names of comrades, etched in ink. Johnnie, along with his fellow soldiers, signed the front cover, leaving their mark: Wesley B. Wright, James B. McKinley, Pvt. Chas W. McBee, Pfc. John H. Marston (affectionately known as “Georgia Boy”), Harvie L. Ellison, D. L. Cates, Sgt. Leo Pomana, Chas E. Lockard, Sgt. David Wood, Pvt. Roy J. McMurphy, P.F.C. E. Edd Alexander, James M. Lamb, P.F.C. Felton B. Smith, Dalton Ga. Ploy Boy, and Clyde W. McClain. So, on that distant Italian soil, amidst camaraderie and memories, the soldiers found solace—a taste of home, a touch of love, and a shared longing for brighter days.

Johnnie sent his program home to Lucile, and in his familiar script, he wrote the words that bridged the vast distance: ‘I miss you a lot, and I love you a million.’ As if to extend the warmth of that Christmas dinner across oceans, he also sent a copy of the menu to Lucile’s parents, a silent promise that love and tradition could withstand even the harshest separation.

Christmas dinner menu signed by several members of 
Company B, 337th Infantry (front and back pages)

Christmas dinner menu signed by several members of 
Company B, 337th Infantry (inside pages)

On the list of soldiers, someone has crossed out ‘Pfc.’ next to James Lamb’s name, indicating his recent promotion to corporal. Years later, Johnnie fondly remembered James with his family, portraying him as a rugged country boy from Kentucky. According to Johnnie, James possessed both ruthlessness and remarkable instincts.

The regiment, initially under 85th Division control, swiftly shifted to a one-hour alert status on December 26, 1944. Simultaneously, the enemy launched a robust attack against the right flank of the 92nd Division in the Serchio Valley. The 370th Infantry retreated gradually, resulting in the capture of Barga, Gallicano, and Cattarozzo by the following noon. The regiment’ alert status was then reduced to 30 minutes, with 100 trucks positioned for immediate deployment. 

Johnnie and Lucile marked their fourth wedding anniversary, separated by vast distances across the globe. On December 27, 1944, Johnnie wrote to Lucile, expressing his deepest thoughts and unwavering affection for her.

My Dear Darling,

Well today is our wedding anniversary and makes four years we have been married. You shall count this a holiday and take the day off, Ha Ha. Don’t you think? I received a letter from you yesterday. You said that Mom Stacks was out of the hospital. Sure am glad. You never said anything about Nell whether she had the baby or not. I hope so by now. Let me know what Mickey gets in. I guess he wants the Navy. That reminds me, has Bob said anything about whether he will get to come home anytime soon or not? I am sorry to hear you didn’t have a good Thanksgiving. But as you said in this letter you have a lot to be thankful for. You can say that twice, once for me for having a swell wife like you is a lot to me to be thankful for. But you know how I feel about you. Because I told you in so many ways. Well I guess you understand me. At least I hope so. I hope the kids had a good Christmas. I am sure that Doc saw to that. Say, tell Mary, Betty, and Melvin I received their Christmas cards and they all were swell. I guess you like to read my old love letters I wrote you before we were married. I guess you thought I was pretty nutty. Well I am still nutty. More so about you. Anyway, they are something to point your time away when you haven’t anything else to do. Well Darling, I will have to close for this time. So, tell all the folks I said hello and God bless you all. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Johnnie

Earl (Mickey) did in fact join the U.S. Navy.

Johnnie’s brother-in-law, Earl Stacks

 

Mary, Betty, and Melvin

By December 29, the offensive that began on the 26th stalled, prompting an extension of the alert time to two hours. The subsequent days were dedicated to devising counterattack strategies and surveying successive delaying positions.

As he has done in the past, Johnnie expressed remorse for his past indiscretions in his December 30, 1944 letter from Italy to Lucile.

Hello Darling,

I received two letters from you yesterday. Sure was glad even if they were almost a month old. I hope this finds you in the best of health and making out OK there at home. As for myself, I am OK. Just miss you more and praying it won’t be long. What’s the idea of telling Gearl you think it best not for him to never marry, Ha Ha? Married life is swell, more so if he can get a wife like you. How you ever stood a dope like me for the trouble I have caused you is something no other woman would do for a husband, I know. I just pray to get back to you so I can make you more happy for what I have caused. I have a Christmas card I received from Mom Stacks also. It sure is a nice one. I hope I get enough time to write her and thank her for it. Well two more days and a new year will be here. And I pray it will be a good one for this war-torn world and you and me. Will close for now. God bless you. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

Please see if you can’t get me a box of chocolate candy bars, also a box of chocolate coated cherries candy. I could really go to town on both, Ha Ha.

Love, Johnnie

Geral did eventually marry. Below is a photo of his wife Evelyn.

Elvie (Earl’s wife) and Evelyn (Gearl’s wife)

Evidently, not everyone possesses the ability to safeguard a secret. This fact was subtly alluded to by Johnnie in his V-mail to Lucile on December 31, 1944.

My Dear Darling,

I received two letters from you today. Sure was glad to hear that you are feeling much better after giving a pint of blood for Mom Stacks. I sure hope she is able to be up and around by the time you receive this. O yeah, tell Dot I said I think the world of her. But no one will take your place with me which you shall know by now and the reason I wrote her and told her my love for you is I wanted the whole world to know about it. And I know if I told her the world would know about it, Ha Ha. Right honey? Dad and his wife sent me a large picture of them. I can’t keep it so I am sending it to you. If I try to keep it, it would get tore up. Will close. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Johnnie

During the month of December, 10 men received battlefield commissions. Twenty-three Silver Stars (7 posthumously, 1 missing in action), 13 Oak Leaf Cluster to Bronze Star Medals, 149 Bronze Stars (5 posthumously), 72 Purple Hearts, 1 Second Oak Leaf to Bronze Star, 7 Soldier Medals, 17 Oak Leaf Cluster to Purple Hearts, and 235 Combat Infantryman Badges were awarded. The Regiment now consisted of 137 officers, 5 warrant officers, and 3074 enlisted men. 

December 20, 21, and 23, 1944

Lucile’s mother fell ill and, in his December 20, 1944 letter, Johnnie conveyed both concern and deep affection for her.

My Dear Darling,

I received two letters from you yesterday and one of them was telling me about Mom Stacks being in the hospital. I have never received a letter telling me what she went to the hospital for or what she was in the hospital for. The way you said things in this letter she was pretty bad off. I pray she is much better by now. Tell her for me to hurry up and get well where she can write her boyfriend. I am really missing her letters. I guess Earl has gone by now. Who is his wife going to stay with? I hope you get the money I sent you before Christmas so you can have a pretty good Christmas even though I am not around for this one. I received a letter from Dot also. She is a great kidder. I think a lot of her. Well as far as that goes, I think a lot of all the family, you know that by now. And they shall. I surely hope you have heard from me by now. I try and I always will write you every chance I get. You can count on that. O say, tell Doc I am going to try and get him a souvenir over here and send to him. I hope you get the things I sent you and I hope you like them for what there are. Well Darling, I will close for now. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

On the same day that Johnnie wrote the letter, The Atlanta Constitution reported grim news: a Georgian had lost their life in action, another was missing, and a staggering 65 had been wounded. Among the wounded was Johnnie, although his injury had occurred earlier, specifically on October 2, 1944.

The Atlanta Constitution, December 20, 1944

On December 20, 1944, the Paducah Sun-Democrat in Paducah, Kentucky reported that Johnnie’s best friend, Pfc. James Lamb, had “been awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge for participation in combat against the enemy with the Fifth Army in Italy.”

Pfc. James Lamb

On December 21, 1944, Lucile received a letter from Ellis Arnell, the Governor of Georgia. In it, he expressed both sympathy and appreciation for Johnnie’s dedicated service to the country. The letter read:

Mrs. Lucille S. Marston
Route # 1
College Park, Ga. 

Dear Mrs. Marston:

According to press dispatches your loved one has been wounded in the service of his country. I hasten to express to you my interest and sympathy. It is my wish that his wounds are not serious. The sacrifice made by your loved one will ever be enshrined in the greatness of our nation.

Sincerely yours,
Ellis Arnall, Governor  

 

Letter from Georgia Governor Ellis Arnall to Lucile
informing her that Johnnie had been wounded

Around the same time, Lucile received another letter, dated December 21, 1944, from the Atlanta Chapter of the American Red Cross. This letter conveyed their sympathy upon learning of Johnnie’s injuries. Remarkably, by the time all this correspondence was unfolding, Johnnie had already left the hospital and rejoined Company B. The letter read:

Mrs. John J. Marston Jr.
College Park, Georgia

Dear Mrs. Marston:

The Atlanta Chapter of the American Red Cross learns with regret through the casualty lists of the newspapers that your husband, Pfc. John J. Marston, Jr., has been reported wounded in action in the Mediterranean Area.

We join your many friends in extending sympathy to you and your family and hope that the War Department will soon be able to send you encouraging news regarding his condition.

During these months of anxiety, we feel sure that you are comforted by a feeling of pride in knowing that your husband has rendered a wonderful service to his country.

Sincerely,
OBY T. BREWER
Chairman, Atlanta Chapter, American Red Cross

Letter from the American Red Cross to Lucile
extending sympathy for his injuries

On December 23, 1944, the regiment, including the 328th Field Artillery Battalion, Company A of the 310th Medical Battalion, and a platoon from Company C of the 310th Engineer Battalion, moved to an assembly area north of Lucca. There, the Combat Team, now under the operational control of the 92nd Infantry Division, was designated as division reserve. Their specific tasks included preparing plans to repel enemy attacks in the coastal sector and the Serchio Valley. 

The impending Christmas and wedding anniversary weighed heavily on Johnnie as he grappled with the separation from Lucile. On December 23, 1944, he prayed for their reunion as he wrote Lucile.

My Dear Darling, 

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and alright and pray that this finds you the same. I have not heard from you in a good while now. I hope by now you are getting some of my letters. You shall be getting a few at least. Well, it is just two more days and Christmas will be around again and four more to our wedding anniversary. I can’t forget that one day that will always be remembered by me and I know you feel the same way. It was so wonderful it makes me feel so bad to even think the way things are so changed now. I just pray to God that he returns me to you because there is so much I want to make up to you, so many things. I hope Mom Stacks is much better. Give her my regards and I hope she is able to be up and around by now. How is Nell and the baby? It should have arrived by now. I bet it is a girl. I am sorry to hear about Irvin. I didn’t know that he had one of his ear drums busted. I haven’t heard from him in a good while now. I wrote him last. They had a church service tonight and I just got back from it. We will be going to a lot of them when I return home. You can count on that. I can see that life is more wonderful if anyone will only look on the right side. Well honey, I guess I have run short this time. So, tell all the folks I said hello and God bless all of you. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

Lucile, Johnnie, and daughter Diane (after the war)

December 14, 15, and 17, 1944

Sending Christmas cards has been a holiday tradition since Henry Cole sent the first Christmas card in 1843 in England. However, for Johnnie, shopping for Christmas cards was not a priority. His days were filled with the rigors of military life: the biting cold, the possibility of snow underfoot, and the constant stress of training for the war. Despite these challenges, Johnnie’s heart remained with his loved ones back home. Determined to send season’s greetings, he wrote two V-mails, both dated December 14, 1944. One was addressed to the Stacks Brothers Lumber Company, the business owned by his father-in-law in College Park. Through those letters, Johnnie bridged the gap between war-torn battlefields and the comfort of home, sharing his love and well wishes across the miles. There was a small “Western Union” box in the bottom left corner where Johnnie wrote:

To: A Gang’s I Can’t forget

Johnnie

 

The second V-mail was addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Sam Stacks. This V-mail had the same image as the one addressed to the lumber company but in the Western Union box he wrote:

To: Mom and Pop Stacks
God Bless You Both
Love, Johnnie

 

Johnnie hoped that Lucile would treat herself to a gift, perhaps because he knew he would not be home for Christmas. His insistence was evident in the V-mail he sent on December 15, 1944.

Hello Honey,

A few lines to let you know I am thinking of you and wondering all the time if everything is going alright with you back there at home. As for myself, I am OK. How is Nell? Has she become a Mother yet? Tell her I am sweating to know whether it’s a boy or girl, Ha Ha. O yeah, be sure and let me know whenever you receive the money I sent you. Also, some other things I sent you and your Mother. I wrote Nell and told her to be sure you spend the money I sent you on yourself. What I mean by that is not to buy things for the house this time or save it. I know there are things you want for yourself personally. So, use it that way. Will close. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Johnnie’s sister-in-law, Nell

Johnnie, like countless other men across the United States, would not be home for Christmas that year. However, he sent his best wishes to the Stacks family when he wrote Lucile’s parents a V-mail on December 15, 1944.

Hello Folks,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and hope that this finds you both the same. How is the rest of the family? I hope no sickness. I bet all the kids are kindly happy being that Christmas is just a few more days. Being that the way things are, I hope all of you enjoy this one as much as you can. At least you can dream that all us boys are there. Maybe we all can make the next one. Well, I will close for this time. Be sure and write when you get time to. Tell Luke I said I still love her a million. Your son.

Lots love, Johnnie

Johnnie’s anticipation grew as Nell’s baby drew nearer. In his letters to Lucile, he inquired eagerly about both Nell and the little one. On December 17, 1944, he revealed that he had purchased a gift, eager to surprise her.

My Dear Darling,

I received a box of candy, two letters and the box with the socks and toilet article. These are the first letters I have received from you in almost two weeks. Gosh, I sure hope it isn’t that long before I hear from you again. I know darn well it isn’t your fault. Well, I guess that’s enough on that. In one of the letters you were telling me about Earl and Elvie getting married. You shouldn’t have told her what you did about the first night. You’ll have her scared to death, Ha Ha. That’s enough on that too. I guess you didn’t understand me on getting me some socks. I was hoping to get some thick socks. The kind I wanted was the kind you wear in boots. That’s what I am wearing anyway. What they call combat boots. I don’t guess you can get that kind, can you? These are OK but they are more like summer socks over here. I hope you understand me and don’t get mad at me. Tell Doc I wish I was on my way back home. It seems so long since I seen you and the rest of the family. I was at a rest camp in one of the towns here a few days ago and I bought a few things for you and Mom Stacks. Also, some things for Nell’s baby. Don’t say anything to her about it. I want it to be a surprise to her. Well honey, I will close for now. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Earl and Elvie (Orr) Stacks 

December 3, 4, 7, and 10, 1944

Lucile has been spreading Christmas cheer to Johnnie. On December 3, 1944, he wrote back to let her know that he had received her packages and had sent her some Christmas money.

My Dear Darling,

I received two letters from you today, also a box of nuts from your Mother. I am going to write her as soon as I finish this to you and thank her. I hope this finds you well in health and doing alright back there at home. Business must be picking up where you work being that you are training some more girls to run the machine. Am I right? I sent you a hundred dollars yesterday. I am sure you need it being that you won’t spend the checks you get every month. I am sending this to you to buy things for yourself and that’s just what I want you to do with it. Honey, I hope you have a good Christmas. All the packages I have received in the last week is making it not so bad here for me being that I am so far away from home. The day I get back home and being with you once more will be a present for me for life. And to prove to you a lot of things. I haven’t heard from Irwin in a good while now. Do you know whether Vergia or Edna ever received the letter I wrote them? I guess by the time you get this letter Nell will have the baby. I bet it a girl, Ha Ha. But I hope it’s a boy. That’s what we need to take care of us later on in years. Don’t you think? And I guess she and Bob was thinking the same things. I am glad to hear Earl got deferred for awhile. I guess Earl knows what he is doing about getting married. The way you say they carry on about each other. No reason why they shall not make a go of it. Of course, him going in the service makes a lot of difference. Well honey, I will have to close for now. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie. God bless you.

Nell and her husband Robert

On December 4, 1944, Johnnie wrote a V-mail to Lucile, sharing news about Forest Tubbs—a fellow soldier and friend from Shelby, Tennessee. Forest was heading home, a casualty of battle after serving 13 months with the Fifth Army in Italy. A mortar blast had left him with 10 painful pieces of shrapnel embedded in his body. Forest’s actions included fighting in the Battle of Rome and seeing combat on the Gothic Line for which he received the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Good Conduct Medal, and a Purple Heart. 

My Dear Wife,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and hope with all my heart that this finds you well and OK. Honey, you remember Forrest Tubbs? The guy I had a picture made with him? It’s a small picture I sent you a good while back. Well, the last time we were up on the front, he got wounded and he wrote me from the hospital where he is at the present and said he was going back to the States. He got hit two or three times. One place was in the hand, so bad he said that he was sure that he wouldn’t be able to use it right any more. I really will miss him. But I guess he’s lucky he wasn’t hurt as bad as he was. He sure seems to be happy about going back home. Who over here wouldn’t be? Well honey, I guess this is all the news for this time. So, I will close. God bless you. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie 

Pfc. Forest Tubbs

Amid war, simple acts of kindness carry immense weight. Johnnie wrote Lucile on December 7, 1944 and shared how a family friend had sent him a package. As he wrote, he conjured images of loved ones back home—a practice likely repeated by countless soldiers seeking solace amidst the distant battlefields.

My Dear Darling

I received two letters tonight, one from you and one from Dot. Sure was glad to hear from you. I was beginning to think you was sick and wasn’t able to write. Say, in this letter from you, you were telling me about how your jaw was swollen from having a tooth pulled and that you had another one to come out. You better take care of your teeth or before you know it, you won’t have any, Ha Ha. Yes, my teeth are OK now. I still have them all and had them fixed up while I was back at the hospital. Of course, I can’t take care of them over here like I should, but when I do have time, I do my best to take care of them. You say Dot and little Carol are spending the night with you and Nell. I can just picture all of you together in the front room and I guess Dot is cutting up like she always did when I was home and she came to see us. And you curled up in a chair watching her take on, Ha Ha. Say, in Dot’s letter she said Nell was smoking. I guess all three of you still hide them when Mom Stacks comes around, right, Ha Ha. I guess Nell will be a mother by the time you get this. Has she had any trouble lately? Tell her I’m pulling for her. Honey, a couple of days ago I received a package from a Mrs. A. E. Green who lived there in Atlanta. She lived on St. Louis Pl. I guess she’s a friend of Dad and his wife if I remember. I think they wrote me and told me a friend of theirs was sending me a package. Anyway, I wrote and thanked her. That was pretty nice, don’t you think? A person sending a package to a guy she doesn’t even know or anything about him. Say, those pictures I sent of me and a buddy of mine sometime ago, did you ever have them painted? If you did you never wrote and told me. I would like to see a picture of me just before I came into the Army, and look at it, then look into a mirror and just see how much I have changed. I know I look a lot older than my age. Well honey, I will have to close. Tell Doc and Mom Stacks I said hello and the kids also. And God bless all of you. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

Lucile’s sisters, Dot and Nell Stacks

Johnnie wrote Lucile a letter on December 10, 1944, sharing news about a box of pecans his father had sent him. While he appreciated the thoughtful gesture, Johnnie secretly wished it had been a box of candy instead.

My Dear Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am OK. I hope and pray that this finds you in the best of health, and the rest of the family the same. I received another package today from Dad and his wife. It was a box of pecans. I wrote and told you about receiving a box from your Mother, didn’t I? Well I wasn’t expecting any more nuts and I thought this box had candy in it. But I got fooled, Ha Ha. I wouldn’t mind so much nuts if they were already shelled. I am getting pretty lazy, aren’t I. Well, as you know I never did go for nuts much anyway. Getting them was something different though. I have just got back from a church meeting. I really enjoyed it. Something I never thought much about as you know when I was back home. I hope I am not too late. I am going to have to make this short this time because there nothing to write about this time. Tell Doc and Mom Stacks I said hello. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. Always. God bless you.

Johnnie 

November 22 and 28, 1944

As Thanksgiving approached, Johnnie once again found himself far from home and his family. Writing a V-mail to Lucile on November 22, 1944, he likely imagined the Thanksgiving feast the family would enjoy the next day. In a playful tone, he teased Lucile, suggesting that she must relish eating turkey. However, amidst the holiday spirit, he also shared somber news about a medal he had received.

Hello Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and alright. Well, tomorrow is Thanksgiving. I guess you will go up to your mothers to eat because I guess Doc will get a turkey. He usually does and I know if they have that you will be right there to help them eat it, Ha Ha. Will you get tomorrow off from where you work? O’yes, you asked me if I could send you the medal with the rifle on it. I could but I lost it. I will get another one when they get some in. If so, I will send it to you. I received four letters from you today. Will close. I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Combat Infantryman Badge

Johnnie discussed receiving early Christmas presents and sent Christmas wishes in his November 22, 1944 V-mail to Luclie’s parents. 

Hello Folks,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and OK and hope with all my heart that this finds you both the same and the rest of the family well and alright. I received the Christmas package today and everything it had was so nicely wrapped as it was when I left there and none of it was spoiled like most of the packages I have been getting. I think all of it is swell. It’s almost like being home for Christmas, which I pray and hope to be by the time the next one rolls around. I received a fruit cake from my stepmother and I tell you that was a surprise as you know me and her never had much to say to each other when I was home. I can’t understand it, Ha Ha. She’s getting where she writes me pretty regular. Oh yeah, what do you think of Luke buying a new bedroom suite? I really think it’s swell. That’s what I want her to have, the best. I owe her lots Mom as you know, and I guess I will never be able to pay her for all she has done for me, and me too dopey to realize it. I pray to God to get me back to make up a lot of things to her. Well, I will close for now just in case it takes this letter to Christmas to get to you. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and God bless you. 

Lots lots love, Johnnie

Lucile’s parents, Sam and Leola Stacks

The regiment relocated to the Fifth Army rest center in Pistola on November 24, 1944, for a well-deserved period of relaxation. All personnel had the chance to indulge in the center’s diverse recreational facilities. 

Many people, when faced with danger, realize that past actions can hurt people. Johnnie expressed remorse in his November 28, 1944 letter to Lucile for something he had apparently done in the past.

My Dear Darling,

Just a few lines hoping with all my heart that this finds you well and making out alright back there at home. As for myself, I am OK but I often wonder about you and the swell times we did have together, even though there was some bad times and I grant you, I know who was the blame for them. You were right Luke, you told me one time if you remember that I was the one that had to pay for what I did. And I am paying. Why you stayed on with me, I do not know. But if things come out alright and peace is in this world once more, we will start a new life all over again and things that was between us I hope will be in the past. I am sorry this pen is writing darker, but the pen I was using gave out of ink, and being I couldn’t get any more ink for it, I had to borrow another pen, so just look over the light or dark writing. I received the fruit cake from you today and the fudge candy. The candy wasn’t any good. But the fruit cake was swell. Me and the boys finished it up in a hurry, Ha Ha. I also received a Christmas box from Louise. It had a small fruit cake and some candy. It’s funny, the candy everybody else sends me is alright. But let you send me some and it isn’t any good. Can you make that out? I received two letters from you today and one from Mom Stacks. Honey, I can understand how you feel about working all the time, and the way you feel about things. But it can’t be like this always. I pray for it not to be anyway. The letter your Mother sent me had some pictures. I sure was glad to get them. At least it’s some of the family and that’s what I want. I want some more of you too. Also, if you can, what about getting me a good wallet. The one I have is about played out. Well, I haven’t much news to write this time except I want you to know I miss you more each day that goes by and I want you to believe in me even though I have no right to ask you to after what was, may I say, hurting you like I did a couple of times. Well God bless you and take care of you for me and I want you to know I miss you a lot and I love you a million.

Always, Johnnie

Here is a piece of France money for a keepsake. Say, did you ever get the Italian money I sent you?

Love, Johnnie

P.S. I have about three months pay coming. When I get it, I will send it to you if I can.

Love, Johnnie

The regiment returned to the Gagliano area on November 29 to resume their training.

During his stay in the hospital in November, Johnnie found himself with ample time for reflection. Once again, a sense of remorse washed over him as he wrote a letter to Lucile on November 29, 1944.

My Dear Darling,

I hope with all my heart that this finds you well and making out OK. As for myself, I am OK. Just missing you more and hoping and praying it won’t be long till I am back with you. Lou, you know as long as I went with you and as long as we have been married that I never talked much on how I felt about things between me and you. I guess I am just not that type of a guy. But you know my ways by now and I know I could keep on writing page after page, telling you how much you have done for me and me being too dopey to realize it till it was almost to late. You know what I am talking about and I know you have written me and told me that all of that is in the past, and to forget about it. But I can’t and I guess I never will. That’s one thing that will stay with me always and I want you to know. I pray to God every night to return me to you so I can try to make up for it to you. Well, you know how things stand now. So, I will drop the subject. How is Mom Stacks and Doc? You know they are two of the sweetest people in the world and I miss them just as much as I would if they were my own Mother or Dad. Well, you know how I feel about them. And the whole family as far as that goes. Well honey, I will close for now. So, God bless you and I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

 

Lucile

During the month of November, eight men were commissioned, the result of meritorious service during combat. Five Legion of Merits, 10 Silver Stars (1 posthumously), 11 Oak Leaf Cluster to Bronze Star Medals, 84 Bronze Stars (2 posthumously), 44 Purple Hearts, 10 Oak Leaf Cluster to Purple Hearts, and 190 Combat Infantryman Badges were awarded. A Service Company received a Meritorious Service Unit plaque for superior performance of duty in the accomplishment of exceptionally difficult tasks in Italy from August 1 to October 16, 1944. Eighteen enlisted men were killed in action, 1 officer and 93 enlisted men were wounded in action, and 11 enlisted men were missing in action. The Regiment now consisted of 125 officers, 5 warrant officers, and 3146 enlisted men. Three hundred and twenty-four replacements were received during the month.

During December, training continued in the Gagliano tent area. The daily schedule covered scouting, patrolling, small unit tactics, mine training, physical conditioning, night exercises, and weapons training. Special focus was on replacements, who received extra instruction in basic subjects. The use of known distance and combat ranges near Mount Calvi (8598) was maximized. Additionally, tactical firing exercises emphasized fire and movement.

Motor maintenance received special attention to prepare vehicles for the next phase of operations. The regiment was also issued special winter clothing, including jackets, parkas, bedrolls, and waterproof suits.

November 16 and 19, 1944

The rugged foothills of the northern Apennines posed significant challenges for mountain warfare. Supply and medical units faced difficulties due to poor trails, washed-out bridges, and steep slopes. Supplies were delivered to the front line by mule train, which suffered casualties from enemy fire and treacherous terrain. Evacuating casualties was especially tough during heavy rain. At one point, a hospital was set up in a church to care for litter cases until they could be carried to an ambulance point over half a mile away.

Pack mule train of 26th Indian Mule Company with British 13th Corps,
moving through the town of Marradi. This unit hauls ammunition to forward areas,
October 3, 1944. Photographer: Yaskell, 3131 Signal Service Co.
Photo Source: U.S. National Archives. Digitized by Signal Corps Archive.
Public domain.

Throughout the month, the critical importance of swiftly establishing defensive fires upon capturing an objective became abundantly clear. Despite relentless German counter-attacks—ranging from small squads to entire companies—our accurate artillery, mortar, and machine gun fire consistently thwarted their advances. The enemy never breached our front line significantly, and once an objective fell under our regiment’s control, it remained secure.

Our regiment faced formidable challenges: treacherous terrain and a cunning adversary. Yet, undeterred, we pressed forward, covering nine air-line miles in just 25 days—a pivotal role in spearheading the Fifth Army’s attack. The enemy effectively used the protection provided by Italian farmhouses and buildings, often fortified with wire, mines, and all-round defense. Strongpoints had to be outflanked before the stubborn German forces surrendered or were captured. While the gains made during the month were not spectacular, they were significant.

During the month of October, 704 prisoners were captured. Three men received battlefield commissions. One Distinguished Service Cross Medal, 2 Legion of Merits, 10 Silver Stars (3 posthumously), 4 Oak Leaf Cluster to Bronze Star Medals (1 posthumously), 72 Bronze Stars (2 posthumously, 1 missing in action), 283 Purple Hearts, 63 Oak Leaf Cluster to Purple Hearts, and 108 Combat Infantryman Badges were awarded. Six officers and 160 enlisted men were killed in action, 35 officers and 735 enlisted men were wounded in action, and 5 officers and 135 enlisted men were missing in action. The Regiment now consisted of 119 officers, 5 warrant officers, and 2639 enlisted men. Two hundred replacements were received during the month.

Click here to read the Operations Report by the 337th Infantry Regiment for November/December 1944.

At the beginning of the November, the 2nd Battalion, along with Company K, held Castellare (Hill 351), while the 3rd Battalion (excluding Company K) occupied positions on the Cuccoli Ridge. The 1st Battalion remained in reserve, camped near Migliarina. At 2 AM on November 2, the 1st Battalion relieved the 2nd Battalion at Castellare, and the 2nd Battalion moved to the Migliarina tent area.

Throughout the month, the regiment actively defended its assigned sector. Aggressive and coordinated patrolling was conducted to maintain contact with the enemy, prevent infiltration into our lines, and accurately locate enemy weapons and positions. Reconnaissance patrols confirmed that the Germans held positions on Hill 431, Hill 444, il Paggio, and Mezzano. Notably, a Company C ambush patrol successfully engaged an enemy patrol, while a Company B combat patrol attempted to breach Hill 308 without success.

The enemy relentlessly targeted our front line and rear areas with artillery, mortars, nebelwerfers (a rocket launcher, also known as a “Screaming Mimi” and “Moaning Minnie”), and long-range machine guns. Our forces responded with both observed and harassing fire. We fortified our position with thousands of barbed wire, anti-tank, and anti-personnel mines, as well as trip flares. Telephone communication was established to connect all positions and adjacent units. 

Russland, Laden eines Nebelwerfers, which translates to “Russia, loading a Nebelwerfer,”
Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-220-0634-12 / Scheffler / CC-BY-SA 3.0, CC BY-SA 3.0 DE,
via Wikimedia Commons. 

The night of November 8, the 2nd Battalion relieved the 3rd Battalion, which withdrew to Migliarina. Simultaneously, Company A set up an ambush south of Bursane, eliminating at least four German soldiers. The night of November 10, the 3rd Battalion moved to the division temporary camp near Gagliana. Beginning November 12, the regiment focused on intensive training and reconditioning, with a priority on preparing replacements.

On November 16, 1944, Johnnie wrote a heartfelt letter to Lucile, pouring out his innermost thoughts. He touched on a range of topics, from health and writing supplies to Christmas gifts, family matters, feelings of jealousy, and the solace found in prayer and unwavering faith.

My Dear Darling,

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and OK and hope with all my heart that this finds you well in health and making out OK back there at home. I have received quite a bit of mail from you in the last few days and you don’t know just how good it makes me feel to hear from you like that. My latest letter from you on November second just took twelve days to get here. Not bad. Do you think? I received the envelope and tablets with most of the envelopes addressed to you. You are really on the ball, Ha, Ha. You should have sent me some stamps with all of this writing paper and envelopes. I hope I can get up a stamp to mail this. If not, it your own fault, Ha, Ha. I have three months pay coming sometime soon. I am sending it all home for you for Christmas presents. I guess that is the best I can do, being there’s nothing else for me to send. You wanted to know whether I was still in Italy. Yes, I am still here. O yes, tell Verg and Edna that Irvin is OK, he wasn’t hurt bad. A buddy of mine met him in the hospital, that’s why I know. I guess he is back with his outfit by now. I received a nice fruit cake from Dad and his wife. It was really good. I am still waiting for my packages from you and Mom Stacks, they shall be here by now. I received a nice letter from your Sis Dot. Also, one from little Nell. They both write that they are making out OK. They are really swell. And I would do anything for them both. I have a bracelet I bought and it has on it every town and country I have been in, at least most of them anyway, and if I can I am going to try and send it to you. It isn’t so good to wear, because it made of cheap stuff and it will turn color on your arm. I guess by the time you get this Mickey will be done. Tell Doc and Mom Stacks not to worry too much about him, for the Lord will take care of him for them. I have found that out since I been overseas. And believe me honey, you have a different husband, and a guy that knows what the Lord can do when you live the way he wants and believe in him and pray. I pray every night to the Lord to return me to you and to watch over you for me while I am away. Lou, you said in this last letter that you write what you think. That’s what I want you to do. Its more like you were right beside me talking to me. O yes, about Louise sending me a fruit cake, I didn’t ask her to. She wrote me and said she was sending me one. I wish I could explain to you why I don’t think it is a good idea for you to go down to see Louise and them. I guess it is just the idea of you traveling alone that far and it maybe I am just jealous of some guys might get smart with you traveling alone. I don’t guess you see it my way and I guess I don’t blame you, but if you are going, I wish you would get somebody to travel with you. I will close for now. I miss you a lot Darling and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie

Johnnie’s dad John and his wife Lola

Johnnie sent a photo to Lucile of his company commander, Lt. General Mark Clark, awarding the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain James Doyle, “the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Army (and previously the United States Air Force), for extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed enemy force.” The front of the photo was marked “To: Captain James M. Doyle, 337th Infantry Regiment, CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR OUTSTANDING SERVICE, MARK W. CLARK, Lieutenant General, USA, Commanding Fifth Army, Italy, November 16, 1944.” On the back of the photo, Johnnie wrote “My Company Command awarded the D.S.C. He is in the States now. “A Great Guy.” Love, Johnnie”

While details about Johnnie’s release from the hospital and subsequent return to his regiment remain unknown, U.S. World War II Hospital Admission Card Files reveal that he was hospitalized in November 1944 due to non-venereal balanitis, an inflammation of the glans penis. Interestingly, during WWII, approximately 146,000 U.S. troops were hospitalized for various penile conditions, including balanitis, balanoposthitis, phimosis, and paraphimosis. An article titled ‘Penile Inflammatory Skin Disorders and the Preventive Role of Circumcision’ suggests that prophylactic circumcision before deployment could have saved both time and resources. 

In his November 19, 1944 letter to Lucile, Johnnie expressed that he had found peace with the Lord. He prayed to return home to Lucile and the rest of the family, eager to demonstrate the transformation he had undergone.

My Dearest Darling, 

Just a few lines to let you know I am well and OK and hope with all my heart that this finds you the same. My outfit is back at the rest area now for a while and today is Sunday and I went to church services this morning. I should have went tonight but being that I received quite a few letters from you and a couple from Dad I thought I would try to catch up a little on my writing. One thing honey, I want you to know I tried to go to all the church services I can, and when I was back at the hospital when I got able, I went to all the services that they held. I have learned a lot about what a guy like me, for example, never thought of about life and the right way of living which I want to show you I can do and will do as long as I live. I pray to the Lord every night to return me to you and the rest of my family and yours where I can show them what a change of life I have found and didn’t have sense enough to understand or maybe I shall say too dumb to look at the right side of the Lord way of life. But I tell you now, I know and I have asked him to give me the chance to go his way. Things I have done I know wasn’t right I have asked him to forgive me. Some you know about and some I guess you don’t know about. But you will. I will tell you everything. Well honey, I will have to close for now. I miss you a lot and I love you a million. 

Always, Johnnie