Letter from Clarence Williams to Gretchen Williams, September 18, 1945

I just returned from a trip to Salzburg, the track was going in to pick up our Stars & Stripes so I decided to ride along. Was glad of it as I got to see several places that I hadn’t seen previously. First of all we had some dental patients for the 124th General Hosp so got to see it. They have a beautiful set up way out in the country in the outskirts of Salzburg. From there we went to Division Hq’s and then to the Roxy Theatre on Festspielhaus, a very old building that was built for a riding academy. We then went to the Mirabel Casino for doughnuts and coffee so all in all it was an enjoyable morning. We also found out this morning that the Rockettes from Radio City Music Hall are dancing at the Festspielhaus, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I saw them when in New York but would enjoy seeing them again. They are noted for their precision dancing and are wonderful. I hear there will be one ticket foe every 3 men so will have to get my bid in early. Last night we went to the theater here in Hallein and saw the U.S.O. Show — “Design For Laughing”. There were only five members in the troupe but I think it was the best variety show I have seen. One of the members was Edith Dohl formerly the wife of Whitey Dohl who   was to be put to death by Franco in Spain a few years ago, when she saved his life. Perhaps you remember seeing her picture in the papers at that time. She is a platinum blonde and received quite a lot of publicity at that time. She is now married to the M.C. of the show whose name is Phil Kaye. Before starting his show he asked several of us where we were from and would then tell us something about our town. I was one of them asked so he said Lincoln was about 50 miles Southwest of Omaha, that there was a beautiful ballroom at the edge of town where the big named bands played, that many people went to Omaha for entertainment, and, for gambling and drinking to Chez Paree. I decided he must have been there.

I didn’t receive any mail from you again last night in fact the only thing I got was a little magazine from Pharis Tire and Rubber Co. I have gotten three of them recently and included with each is a very personal letter from Mr. Schiff. I have never met him but feel I know him because of his letters. Think I shall have to write him and tell him of my appreciation for his interest. Apparently Jack from the office asked him to include me on their mailing list as he mentioned Jack being to their factory recently.

We had one pass open for Switzerland   yesterday but I wasn’t lucky enough to draw it. Ramsey, our mess sergeant got it but he hasn’t had one before so I was glad for him. All I can do now is wait for the next one and hope I will be lucky.

Just came back from dinner and it was very good today. We had fried liver again with mashed potatoes and buttered peas. On the way back one of the boys in the company jumped me to buy some cigarettes and offered me $20.00 per carton. I had a couple of extra cartons so sold them for $40.00. I know he plans to sell them some where probably for $80.00 but I dont care. It isn’t a bad profit at $20.00 for me when they cost 20¢ per carton. Now if I an find some one else who hasn’t sent money home perhaps I can send you another $50.00.

Well darling, that’s all the news I can think of at present so guess I better say good bye for today —