My grandfather Charles Lowry had a long career as a Federal employee, which included almost two years in the United States Army. It probably wasn't by choice that he entered the Army. Like almost 10,000,000 other men between 1940 and 1947, he was drafted and declared 1-A - Available for unrestricted military service.
Once drafted, he entered Basic Training at Camp Blanding in Florida. He would spend several months there learning basic soldiering before receiving leave and returning to his hometown of Youngstown, Ohio. His leave finished, he took a train for Fort George Meade, Maryland. Just outside of Washington, D.C., he visited with friends and took in the sites before shipping out for England. He was assigned to a replacement unit, a Casual Company as it was known, and it was a boring life. Guard duty, sleep, uniform inspection, eat, repeat.
The real action started when like so many others, he was assigned to a fighting unit. In this case, he was assigned as an ammunition bearer in a squad and platoon of Company D/Heavy Weapons, 1st Battalion (Lt. Col. Ben Chapla), 28th Infantry Regiment (Anderson), 8th Infantry Division (Stroh), XIII Corps (Middleton), United States Third Army (Patton), Twelfth United States Army Group (Bradley), Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force (Eisenhower) [Commanders when Chuck entered the fight in Aug 1944].
Charles Lowry was a replacement. Replacement troops prior to 1943 were used to fill slots in new units being created and sent overseas. By 1944, when Charles went through basic training, recruits weren't just filling new units, but were used to replace combat casualties from units fighting in Europe, the Pacific and in Africa.
The letters Charles wrote home capture a basic painting of Army life. He was restricted from providing his location most of the time. Asking questions to his mother was the best way to get information of home.
Charles was wounded during the early stages of Battle for Brest, France when a hand grenade detonated near him, causing the ammunition he was carrying to explode and sent shrapnel fragments into his legs. He had been in France for eight days and on the front line for three hours. He was lucky if he knew the first names of the men he was fighting with. Friendships were non-existent for replacements (later called reinforcements because of the harsh connotation of the word 'replacement' in a military unit that had suffered casualties). The chance a replacement would be wounded or killed in his first 14 days of combat was nearly 70%.
Chuck was removed from the line, first sent to a casualty collection point, before a truck ride to field hospital. He was then transported to England for care and eventually to Fort Benjamin Harrison Army Hospital in Indianapolis where he spent nearly a year in recovery of his wounds.
If you have questions or comments about the letters, I encourage you to post them in the comments section.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Friday, October 2, 2009
Charles J. Lowry, 1924 - 2007
Private-First Class Charles J. Lowry
Company D, 28th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Division
Charles J. Lowry, life-long resident of Youngstown, father of eleven children, grandfather of eighteen and great-grandather to two, died early Sunday morning at his home after a long illness. He was born November 10, 1924, the only child of Charles E. and Margaret M. Lowry, attended McKinley Elementary School, and graduated from Ursuline High School in 1942. He spent time in the United States Army during World War II, receiving the Purple Heart. He married Jean Grocutt at Saint Columba in 1948. Jean passed away in February 1987. He was well known in Yougstown for owning Lowry's Custard Stand, first on Belmont Avenue and then for a long time on Logan Avenue. He retired from the United States Post Office and in his retirement, gave his time to the St. Vincent DePaul Society, for whom he opened and operated their first soup kitchen on Front Street from 1981 until 1987. He remained active in the St. Edward's St. Vincent DePaul Society until recently. He also was known for organizing bus trips to Saint Anne de Beaupre Shrine in Quebec, Canada and Notre Dame football games. In 2000, he was inducted into the Ursuline High School Athletic Hall of Fame, the first tennis player to be inducted.
Chuck's Honorable Discharge papers from the United States Army in 1945. He received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for being wounded during the battle for Brest, France on August 28, 1944. He spent almost two years in hospitals both in England and at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana.
Chuck with his new bride Jean and Grandpa Pepperney on his wedding day, May 29, 1948.
Chuck with his granddaughter Caroline and her new husband Jon on their wedding day, November 25, 2006.
Chuck and Jean on their wedding day, May 29, 1948.
Chuck and Jean with little Pat on the front stoop at their house on Mansell.
Chuck and Pat
I'm sure he is plotting his way out of this event.
Chuck and Jean celebrating Christmas at his son Pat's house on Dennick Avenue in 1986.
Chuck with his daughters Mary and Kathy out at Chuck's house in Liberty.
Chuck's 80th birthday was celebrated in grand Lowry style.
More of his 80th birthday party, with son Mike in the foreground and daughter Margaret next to him.
Look out to Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Yes, that line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town …
Yes, that line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town …
To leave comments and reflections of Chuck, select the "# Comments" link below this line.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Hit
Charles was wounded on August 28, 1944. According to a notebook found with his World War II belongings detailing his actions, his company entered the fight on August 27. He was fighting for less than 24 hours when he was wounded.
The letter explained: A scrap of paper was found amongst the documents from Chuck's time in the service providing a timeline from the time of injury until he was provided definitive care. Clearly, the most noticeable event is the three hours he spent between the time he was hit and when he was picked up. Chuck had previously told me that he was lying in a ditch during that time, taking cover from German fire. 'Clering St.' refers to a Clearing Station. The Clearing Station’s main function was triage. Accordingly incoming casualties were sorted and classified as follows:
His timeline, as written:
Aug 27 2:30 to 1000 Move up
Aug 28 7:30 Move up
7:35 Hit
10:45 Picked up
11:15 To aid st.
1:00 Clering St.
Col. St
3:30 101st Evac
Aug 29 To 666th Air Strip
Aug 30 Fly to 347th St. 6 to 8
Aug 31 To 128th Gen near Devizes
Sept. 2:00 Operation Traction
The letter explained: A scrap of paper was found amongst the documents from Chuck's time in the service providing a timeline from the time of injury until he was provided definitive care. Clearly, the most noticeable event is the three hours he spent between the time he was hit and when he was picked up. Chuck had previously told me that he was lying in a ditch during that time, taking cover from German fire. 'Clering St.' refers to a Clearing Station. The Clearing Station’s main function was triage. Accordingly incoming casualties were sorted and classified as follows:
- Patients requiring prolonged care and who were fit enough for immediate evacuation.
- Patients requiring prolonged care but who needed immediate treatment before evacuation was possible.
- Patients ready to be returned to duty within a few hours (number depending upon the necessity to keep the Clearing Station free and ready for movement
Once in England, Chuck was treated first by the 347th Station Hospital in Marlborough, Wiltshire and then by the 128th General Army Hospital. He stated it was near Devizes, but the 128th was situated near Bishopstrow, about 20 miles away. It was a week from the time of his injury until he was able to have surgery that provided traction to his femur injury.
 |
| Map showing the location of Marlborough, Devizes, and Bishopstrow in England. |
Thursday, June 4, 2009
June 30, 1944
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
Well we got here at about 11:15 and ate right away. We came to this place and have been here all afternoon. I met a kid from my co. right away on the train. I have no address yet. I got a seat at Connellsville, PA. I sat through from Pitt. This is a big place. I am going out and look around now.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
-----
The letter explained: This is Chuck's first letter home that is in the collection. Based on the next several letters he writes, we know that he has just arrived at Fort Meade, Maryland, north of Washington, D.C. and south of Baltimore. He has completed basic training at Camp Blanding, Florida and has perhaps just left Youngstown after being home on a short leave. The shortened word 'co.' refers to the company or unit to which Chuck has been assigned. In this case, it may refer to Company A, 29th Battalion, 8th Regiment (his unit at Fort Meade) or it could be the training company that he left at Camp Blanding.
As appeared in the newspaper (unknown paper or date), his address at Camp Blanding was:
Pvt. Charles J. Lowry 35925389
Co B 210 Bat 65 Reg IRTC
Camp Blanding, Fla.
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
Well we got here at about 11:15 and ate right away. We came to this place and have been here all afternoon. I met a kid from my co. right away on the train. I have no address yet. I got a seat at Connellsville, PA. I sat through from Pitt. This is a big place. I am going out and look around now.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
-----
The letter explained: This is Chuck's first letter home that is in the collection. Based on the next several letters he writes, we know that he has just arrived at Fort Meade, Maryland, north of Washington, D.C. and south of Baltimore. He has completed basic training at Camp Blanding, Florida and has perhaps just left Youngstown after being home on a short leave. The shortened word 'co.' refers to the company or unit to which Chuck has been assigned. In this case, it may refer to Company A, 29th Battalion, 8th Regiment (his unit at Fort Meade) or it could be the training company that he left at Camp Blanding.
As appeared in the newspaper (unknown paper or date), his address at Camp Blanding was:
Pvt. Charles J. Lowry 35925389
Co B 210 Bat 65 Reg IRTC
Camp Blanding, Fla.
July 1, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Co. A 29 BN 8 Regt
4 Plat. AGFRD#1
Fort George Meade, MD
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
It is 9:30. I just came back from the P.X. I got a Yank and had some ice cream and pop. I got my train money back today. $33.00 but no payday. I got assigned to a co. now so you can write. It is not bad here. Not too much to eat but we don't go hungry. I still haven't starting eating a lot. I got up at 5 this and went back to bed at 7 and slept till 10. I guess we'll get to at least Baltimore or Wash. over the weekend. I hope I get out at 12 Sat. and I'll come home. We don't know anything about leaving here. We are getting 2 work uniforms, 2 winter uniforms, and 1 summer uniform. We'll be here till next week at least. I still have not had a chance to look up Vaughn. Well I have to hunt a mailbox now.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
-----
The letter explained: While the first letter didn't include a return address, Chuck now includes his assignment, being 4th Platoon, Company A, 29th Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment. Fort Meade was a very active post during World War II, hosting basic training activities and later, acting as a prisoner of war camp for German POW's. AGFRD #1 stands for Army Ground Forces Replacement Depot #1 (located at Fort Meade). This is where troops were provided uniforms, inoculated, would have had final weapons testing, and were administratively processed before being sent overseas.
When Chuck's reference to Yank refers to Yank, the Army Weekly, which was weekly magazine published by the United States military during World War II. It was similar to Stars and Stripes and was known for including a "pin-up" girl in each issue.
If you are interested in seeing more about Army uniforms during World War II, click here.
Co. A 29 BN 8 Regt
4 Plat. AGFRD#1
Fort George Meade, MD
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
It is 9:30. I just came back from the P.X. I got a Yank and had some ice cream and pop. I got my train money back today. $33.00 but no payday. I got assigned to a co. now so you can write. It is not bad here. Not too much to eat but we don't go hungry. I still haven't starting eating a lot. I got up at 5 this and went back to bed at 7 and slept till 10. I guess we'll get to at least Baltimore or Wash. over the weekend. I hope I get out at 12 Sat. and I'll come home. We don't know anything about leaving here. We are getting 2 work uniforms, 2 winter uniforms, and 1 summer uniform. We'll be here till next week at least. I still have not had a chance to look up Vaughn. Well I have to hunt a mailbox now.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
-----
The letter explained: While the first letter didn't include a return address, Chuck now includes his assignment, being 4th Platoon, Company A, 29th Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment. Fort Meade was a very active post during World War II, hosting basic training activities and later, acting as a prisoner of war camp for German POW's. AGFRD #1 stands for Army Ground Forces Replacement Depot #1 (located at Fort Meade). This is where troops were provided uniforms, inoculated, would have had final weapons testing, and were administratively processed before being sent overseas.
When Chuck's reference to Yank refers to Yank, the Army Weekly, which was weekly magazine published by the United States military during World War II. It was similar to Stars and Stripes and was known for including a "pin-up" girl in each issue.
If you are interested in seeing more about Army uniforms during World War II, click here.
July 4, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Co. A 29 BN 8 Regt
A.G.F.R.D. #1
Fort George G. Meade, MD
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
Boy the airplane ride was swell. You don't even know you are in a plane. It doesn't make much noise either. We got to Wash. at about 10:30. I called Jean Cleary. and then went out and saw her and then went back to town and I got the train at 1:30. I got to bed about 2:45. I got my shipping orders today. I don't know when I'll go though. Boy I was all set to get the 8:30 B+O out of Wash. tonite and get home at 5 in the morning and bee off till 5 the next morning but not we have to have a clothing inspection at 8 in the morning. After that we can to town I think Ill go to Wash. I could go to Baltimore but I've been to Wash and I know a little about it and I would like to look around. I just came from seeing the show ''Back Home in Indiana''. The Sgt. got in at 5:45 this morning. Boy things look like dots from the plane. Going over town through I could pick out anything. We passed our house before I knew we were over Yo-town. Everone goes to P.O.E. from here now and if he is to be kept in the states he goes from P.O.E.. I guess it is N.Y. Boy I get around. I'll call tomorrow if I can. No work around here.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Co. A 29 BN 8 Regt
A.G.F.R.D. #1
Fort George G. Meade, MD
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
Boy the airplane ride was swell. You don't even know you are in a plane. It doesn't make much noise either. We got to Wash. at about 10:30. I called Jean Cleary. and then went out and saw her and then went back to town and I got the train at 1:30. I got to bed about 2:45. I got my shipping orders today. I don't know when I'll go though. Boy I was all set to get the 8:30 B+O out of Wash. tonite and get home at 5 in the morning and bee off till 5 the next morning but not we have to have a clothing inspection at 8 in the morning. After that we can to town I think Ill go to Wash. I could go to Baltimore but I've been to Wash and I know a little about it and I would like to look around. I just came from seeing the show ''Back Home in Indiana''. The Sgt. got in at 5:45 this morning. Boy things look like dots from the plane. Going over town through I could pick out anything. We passed our house before I knew we were over Yo-town. Everone goes to P.O.E. from here now and if he is to be kept in the states he goes from P.O.E.. I guess it is N.Y. Boy I get around. I'll call tomorrow if I can. No work around here.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 5, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry
Co. A 29 BN 8 Regt
Fort Meade, MD
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
It is 11:30. I just came from the bond show. I don't know how many hundred thousands were. I get a train at 130 and am K of C (USO) now. It is nice. The show was buy the monument. Just a line..
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Co. A 29 BN 8 Regt
Fort Meade, MD
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
It is 11:30. I just came from the bond show. I don't know how many hundred thousands were. I get a train at 130 and am K of C (USO) now. It is nice. The show was buy the monument. Just a line..
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 6, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Co. A 29 BN 8 Regt
Fort Meade, MD
Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
Well, today we just had our clothes inspected 2 more times and then packed them and put them away. It seems that we will leave about Fri. As yet they have not been able to fit me with a gas mask so maybe I will not ship when I should. We had ice cream and watermelon for supprt. After supper we got paid and while I was in the line Paul Leattau of ''41'' of Urs. came up to me. He saw it in the paper and he looked me up. He has been here a mo. now and I didn't know how close he was to home. If I'm still here we'll be home. I got up at 7:15 this morn. and missed breakfast which was at 6. I had eaten at 1 in the morning before I got the train. I got to bed at 2:20. Left Wash at 1:30. It is about 10:30 now so I guess I'll write tomorrow.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Co. A 29 BN 8 Regt
Fort Meade, MD
Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
Well, today we just had our clothes inspected 2 more times and then packed them and put them away. It seems that we will leave about Fri. As yet they have not been able to fit me with a gas mask so maybe I will not ship when I should. We had ice cream and watermelon for supprt. After supper we got paid and while I was in the line Paul Leattau of ''41'' of Urs. came up to me. He saw it in the paper and he looked me up. He has been here a mo. now and I didn't know how close he was to home. If I'm still here we'll be home. I got up at 7:15 this morn. and missed breakfast which was at 6. I had eaten at 1 in the morning before I got the train. I got to bed at 2:20. Left Wash at 1:30. It is about 10:30 now so I guess I'll write tomorrow.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 6, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry
Co. A 29 BN 8 Rgt
Fort Meade, MD
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
Well, I am about sure we go out Fri or Sat. morn. early. We are all packed. I am sending some stuff home. I couldn't get any shoes for you your size. The weather is warm. It seems we will not go to England. I was at a dance at the field house tonite. Nothing going on so I write tomorrow.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Co. A 29 BN 8 Rgt
Fort Meade, MD
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
Well, I am about sure we go out Fri or Sat. morn. early. We are all packed. I am sending some stuff home. I couldn't get any shoes for you your size. The weather is warm. It seems we will not go to England. I was at a dance at the field house tonite. Nothing going on so I write tomorrow.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 7, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry
Co A 29 BN 8 Regt
Fort Meade, MD.
Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
It is 7:45. 14 guys left already, I guess we'll leave this morning. I got my A.P.O. no. My new address is
Pvt. C. J. L. 35925389
A.P.O. 15380
Co. L 2 Pl.
% Postmaster
N.Y. N.Y.
We are only a couple of hrs from N.Y. We are all ready to go now. I'll write as so as I get to N.Y.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Co A 29 BN 8 Regt
Fort Meade, MD.
Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Hi.
It is 7:45. 14 guys left already, I guess we'll leave this morning. I got my A.P.O. no. My new address is
Pvt. C. J. L. 35925389
A.P.O. 15380
Co. L 2 Pl.
% Postmaster
N.Y. N.Y.
We are only a couple of hrs from N.Y. We are all ready to go now. I'll write as so as I get to N.Y.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 8, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%Postmaster N.Y.
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Passed by Charles E. Wilson, 2nd Lt. Inf.
Hi.
How are you all doing these days? How is Charles doing too. From now on all of our letters and stuff will be sensored. I think I sent you my new address. I sent home my civilian shoes with Paul Leattau. If you have received them yet and you know my address send them and my camera to me. I can take the camera but hurry.
How are the Leetonia people coming along. As you all can see by my letters I do not use the paragraph. It is easy to read I'll bet.
Today all I did was read and fooled around with clothes. I am going to see Jayne Cleary in New York I think.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 9, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Casual Co. L
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
C. E. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Passed by Charles E Wilson, 2nd Lt. Inf.
Hi.
I am now at the S.C. It is about the same as the ones at Blanding. Here they have ping-pong and pool. I haven't been around since I talked to you so I don't know if the tel. came or not. I was on K.P. today. I had an easy job. The meals around here aren't too bad but they were better at the other camps except Hayes. I went to mass at 9 this morning. Boy it was packed out the back door. Since letters are cencored we only write on one side of the sheet. The way I write I don't see how anyone can read it. I think it is about time I started writing to someone besides you so
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Casual Co. L
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
C. E. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
Passed by Charles E Wilson, 2nd Lt. Inf.
Hi.
I am now at the S.C. It is about the same as the ones at Blanding. Here they have ping-pong and pool. I haven't been around since I talked to you so I don't know if the tel. came or not. I was on K.P. today. I had an easy job. The meals around here aren't too bad but they were better at the other camps except Hayes. I went to mass at 9 this morning. Boy it was packed out the back door. Since letters are cencored we only write on one side of the sheet. The way I write I don't see how anyone can read it. I think it is about time I started writing to someone besides you so
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Friday, May 29, 2009
July 12, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%Postmaster N.Y.C.
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by N.C. Manuld, 2nd Lt. Inf.
Hi.
I guess you expected me to call tonite. Well I didn't. Calls from camp are restricted. I will not be able to call you from here any more. We are not doing a whole lot right now. Last nite I saw a U.S.O. show. Ann Sheridan, Ethel Merman, Billy Miles, Ben Blue, and a lot of (illegible) person. They had a colored show tonite. It wasn't so good. I got the money here at camp tonite. Pretty nice. 2 a.m. now at the S.C. There was a show there tonite too. The weather here is nice. I was at the mass tonite. Confess tomorrow afternoon late. Well I'll write more tomorrow.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%Postmaster N.Y.C.
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by N.C. Manuld, 2nd Lt. Inf.
Hi.
I guess you expected me to call tonite. Well I didn't. Calls from camp are restricted. I will not be able to call you from here any more. We are not doing a whole lot right now. Last nite I saw a U.S.O. show. Ann Sheridan, Ethel Merman, Billy Miles, Ben Blue, and a lot of (illegible) person. They had a colored show tonite. It wasn't so good. I got the money here at camp tonite. Pretty nice. 2 a.m. now at the S.C. There was a show there tonite too. The weather here is nice. I was at the mass tonite. Confess tomorrow afternoon late. Well I'll write more tomorrow.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 20, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
C. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Ed. Note: Surprisingly, this letter wasn't screened. It could have been sent off base at a Post Office, meaning the Army never touched it.
Hi.
How are you doing these days? Did you all see Rodgers again? I got in the mail the money Charles sent to me. It was a money order. He ought to of sent me cash. I finally wrote a letter to Jim Pepperney. The other day I reeived an airmail letter from him. I do not think of much news to write when I am writing. I was not down to see Jayne. I couldn't make it. I am having a good time eating and sleeping and am in good health.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
C. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Ed. Note: Surprisingly, this letter wasn't screened. It could have been sent off base at a Post Office, meaning the Army never touched it.
Hi.
How are you doing these days? Did you all see Rodgers again? I got in the mail the money Charles sent to me. It was a money order. He ought to of sent me cash. I finally wrote a letter to Jim Pepperney. The other day I reeived an airmail letter from him. I do not think of much news to write when I am writing. I was not down to see Jayne. I couldn't make it. I am having a good time eating and sleeping and am in good health.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 24, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by 2nd Lt. illegible
Hi:
Well, I am now in England. How have you been lately. I am fine. The food is good so far here. As good as it was some of the places in the states. I haven't done anything since I left Fla. yet except eat and sleep and have my clothes inspected. I've gained about 10 more lbs. Did I tell you I received both money orders. It is now 10:15 and it is still light out. It gets dark about 11:30 and is light about 5 I think. I am lying out on the grass writing this. Grass is nice after being at Blanding. There are a few of these fellows still with me. How is the illegible these days. I guess there is a stationary shortage so the Lt. told us so I'll write small. The boat ride wasn't bad at all, but I will take a plane anyday. No one got seasick hardly. It will be about 2 wks. so they told us till we start receiving mail. Don't worry and take care of yourself.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by 2nd Lt. illegible
Hi:
Well, I am now in England. How have you been lately. I am fine. The food is good so far here. As good as it was some of the places in the states. I haven't done anything since I left Fla. yet except eat and sleep and have my clothes inspected. I've gained about 10 more lbs. Did I tell you I received both money orders. It is now 10:15 and it is still light out. It gets dark about 11:30 and is light about 5 I think. I am lying out on the grass writing this. Grass is nice after being at Blanding. There are a few of these fellows still with me. How is the illegible these days. I guess there is a stationary shortage so the Lt. told us so I'll write small. The boat ride wasn't bad at all, but I will take a plane anyday. No one got seasick hardly. It will be about 2 wks. so they told us till we start receiving mail. Don't worry and take care of yourself.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 25, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by Lt. D. Leventutt
Hi.
Well, one more day gone and more clothing inspections. They sure worry about your clothes. I got my ration card today. They give you more money over here but they tell us we don't have anywhere to spend it. I still have some. I got the other money order cashed today and send you a cablegram which you will have received before you get this letter I imagine. I got 32 stamped airmail envelopes too. $2.00. I was through Wynn's place from Kensington St. before I came here. It was awfully funny, but they were not there. I guess they left before I got there. It is 11:15 and we got up about 5:45. I am going to eat a little now and read the paper before I go to bed. I got myself another haircut tonight. I can have it cut anyway I guess cause I guess I won't see that "public" soon. We are still eating good too. Raisin pie for supper, but I sure miss my ice cream. Has anyone been home lately? Lucky if they were. By the way Wynn's place sure was a good looking place. How is the Republic and Mooney doing these days. Why did he get time off. I must have not gotten that letter. I don't have much to say so I'll write more tomorrow.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
Lowry's
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by Lt. D. Leventutt
Hi.
Well, one more day gone and more clothing inspections. They sure worry about your clothes. I got my ration card today. They give you more money over here but they tell us we don't have anywhere to spend it. I still have some. I got the other money order cashed today and send you a cablegram which you will have received before you get this letter I imagine. I got 32 stamped airmail envelopes too. $2.00. I was through Wynn's place from Kensington St. before I came here. It was awfully funny, but they were not there. I guess they left before I got there. It is 11:15 and we got up about 5:45. I am going to eat a little now and read the paper before I go to bed. I got myself another haircut tonight. I can have it cut anyway I guess cause I guess I won't see that "public" soon. We are still eating good too. Raisin pie for supper, but I sure miss my ice cream. Has anyone been home lately? Lucky if they were. By the way Wynn's place sure was a good looking place. How is the Republic and Mooney doing these days. Why did he get time off. I must have not gotten that letter. I don't have much to say so I'll write more tomorrow.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 26, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380 %P.M. N.Y.C.
C. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by illegible
Hi.How are you doing. You soon ought to start getting the mailed that has been sent from over here. They tell us it takes around 12 days. None of us have gotten any because it hasn't event had a good chance to to catch up to us. They say we'll get it though.
For lunch today we had chicken. I was surprised.
It is warm out. The sun is hot so I am sitting in my tent to write this. There is a breeze goes through it.
I already wrote 2 letters this afternoon so I guess I'll close for now.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 26, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M. N.Y.C.
C. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by illegible
Hi.
Just a line because they want the mail in a couple of minutes. I guess I still won't receive any for a few more days or so. I have moved to another camp. You really get around in this army. I had to get a new watch strap finally. It was about time I guess. How is everyone doing? Your R.C. is around over here. There were 140 of what you are on the boat. We get the ball scores and all the American news in the Stars and Stripes, but the Yank is a European ... (illegible). It is about the same though. I am going to a show now if there is one tonite. I believe there is. Did C. Reedabaugh get home. I went to mass and comm. about 4:45 this afternoon. 27 out 31 went about.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Thursday, May 28, 2009
July 27, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M.N.Y.C.
C. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by Geo. Thoemke, 2nd Lt., Inf.
Hi.
How are you doing? I am fine. Right now it is 10 oclock. I just woke up. After Reveille (or however you spell it) and breakfast, I got a little more sleep today. Are you still at the O.E. on Mass. Is there any other time you are working? I may send some money home. I don't have much but there isn't much use for it over here. Did I tell you that before I left the states my wt. went up to 204. That was from eating and sleeping. I ate a qt. or 2 of ice cream a day. I don't know if you can get it over here or not. I hope so. How is your weather these days. Good I hope. How is the back. If it is better, come around and you can carry my pack. Ha! Ha! Well I am running short of talk to I'll start to write my signature.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M.N.Y.C.
C. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by Geo. Thoemke, 2nd Lt., Inf.
Hi.
How are you doing? I am fine. Right now it is 10 oclock. I just woke up. After Reveille (or however you spell it) and breakfast, I got a little more sleep today. Are you still at the O.E. on Mass. Is there any other time you are working? I may send some money home. I don't have much but there isn't much use for it over here. Did I tell you that before I left the states my wt. went up to 204. That was from eating and sleeping. I ate a qt. or 2 of ice cream a day. I don't know if you can get it over here or not. I hope so. How is your weather these days. Good I hope. How is the back. If it is better, come around and you can carry my pack. Ha! Ha! Well I am running short of talk to I'll start to write my signature.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
July 30, 1944
Pvt. C. Lowry 35925389
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M.N.Y.C.
C. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by illegible
Hi.
How are you doing these bright days? Well I guess I am settled for a couple of more days since I've moved again. I am writing on my mess kit. That is why it is so bad. We had steak for lunch today. Something different for a change. The food isn't so awful good here but I guess we'll get by. I went to mass this after noon about 4:00 oclock. It was 25 min. from here. Today is anotehr day off. No sense in writing every day like I used to because there isn't anything I can say much or at least what I can think to say. We just got our rations for the week. There are free. I traded my cigarettes for candy and I still have about 15 packs left. We get gum, life savers and some other stuff.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
Casual Co. L Inf
A.P.O. 15380
%P.M.N.Y.C.
C. Lowry
1439 Wick Ave
Youngstown, Ohio
U.S.A.
Passed by illegible
Hi.
How are you doing these bright days? Well I guess I am settled for a couple of more days since I've moved again. I am writing on my mess kit. That is why it is so bad. We had steak for lunch today. Something different for a change. The food isn't so awful good here but I guess we'll get by. I went to mass this after noon about 4:00 oclock. It was 25 min. from here. Today is anotehr day off. No sense in writing every day like I used to because there isn't anything I can say much or at least what I can think to say. We just got our rations for the week. There are free. I traded my cigarettes for candy and I still have about 15 packs left. We get gum, life savers and some other stuff.
So Long
Love,
''Chas''
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