December
25
Italy
Dear
Marge,
Just
finished reading three letters from you, a perfect Christmas present
under the circumstances. You asked what I want to do when I get back.
I want to go to dances, shows, etc., just as you do, and we will,
but most of all I just want to live the life of an average American.
While over here, there are a lot of things I think of that would like
to do. In fact, all of things I used to do before coming over here,
but that's just because I am over here. You see, all the things I
think I want to do are just everyday occurrences back there, like
having a coke, or hamburger or going to a dance. To tell you the truth,
I haven't thought about doing anything special. I just want to do
what I did before I left — live the way I want to.
I
realize time must pass slowly for those waiting at home. As far as
not being able to have a good time, just stop and think that while
those people are having their fun, there are guys over here giving
their lives (and I do mean dying) just so those people and everyone
else can keep on having a good time.
You
know, I think, in fact I know, I'm pretty darned lucky. I'm overseas
and have been for about as long as anyone, but we have a paradise
compared to the guys up front. They go through more hell in a day
than we do in a year. That's why you don't hear me complaining much,
except that I'm homesick and that happens to everyone.
Now,
I don't mean people at home shouldn't want to be having fun, but whenever
they get to feeling it's tough because they can't be going places,
just think of the guys who would just like to stick their heads out
of a trench without getting shot at, and I think you'll feel that
it's not so bad missing out on a few good times.
Bill
