Letter from Clarence Williams to Gretchen Williams, March 30, 1945

I really don’t have any thing of interest to write but did want to drop you a few lines. Didn’t get to write yesterday as we were all packed up to move but havn’t done so as yet. Also I didn’t receive any mail from you last night but hope to in our mail call today.

Honey, I just recalled that today was my anniversary in the Army. There have certainly been some changes made in that period of time. I would never have believed it had I been told then that I would be in Germany now. It seems very much like a nightmare in many ways. I see by the Stars and Stripes where every one in the States was very excited about the war being over a couple days ago. Only wish it was true and don’t see how it can be too long before it becomes a reality. Things are really moving fast now as you have no doubt read in the papers. There is still mopping up to be done and even in the rear areas they find a few Jerries hiding here and there. There is no way of knowing how many of them have changed to civilian clothes to avoid capture.

Several of us went to a G.I. movie last night and saw a fairly good picture. It was “Secret Command”, with Pat O’Brian, Chester Morris and Carole Landis. Not heavy but good entertainment and I enjoyed it very much. The movie was held in an old Hotel and the room was small and of course jampacked.

Five of us went down and had a shower this morning and did it ever feel wonderful. Its a portable unit operated by the Quartermaster and it really works wonderfully well. Nice hot water is a rarity around here and of course all water must be purified for cooking and drinking. Also the sewage system is always disrupted and   the power plants ruined by bombing or artillery consequently we have few luxuries even though living in a very nice appearing house.

We have been taking a few pictures with Millers Camera and the boys developed some of them. They also tried to print a few on German paper but they didn’t come out too good. When we get a few more developed I will send you some.

The weather is still bad with rain every day for almost a week now. Many of the trees are getting leaves and you see many things coming up in the gardens however as yet I havn’t been able to decide what they are.

Tomorrow is supposed to be payday again but suppose by that time we will be on the move so will get our money later. It really doesn’t make any difference as there is nothing to buy except PX rations and haircuts. Will probably send some home again before too longer I don’t think we will need is in Berlin. Ha!

Well darling its time for chow so will close for today. Bye for now honey. I’m forever thinking of you.

Tell Dad and Louisa hello, also Viola. Hope they are all well and okay.