Heroes: the Army
"...Now confined to a bed and letter writing is hard lying down. You will know from my folks that I caught some shrapnel in my left HIP on Nov 28th and it made a BIG hole there. Very lucky it didn't hit my intestines, but it stopped real close to my spine. Had it hit the spine I would be unable to ever walk again..."
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The image above is of Ed Souder's dress uniform and his awards/ citations achieved during his military career. |
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The image above is of the Presidential Unit Citation that was awarded to the 102nd Division for actions during the time that Ed served with the 102nd. |
Edward L. Souder: Miss Edna Schrupp
The following are letters recently located that Ed had forgotten about for many, many years. He recently came across the packet of letters.
The letters were written by Ed during his time in the service to his friend, Miss Edna Schrupp who worked at the War Arms Plant...
We have made every effort to see that the letters are in proper order and have had very minor editorial corrections.
April 14, 1943
Just a line to answer your first letter to reach me here at Fort Knox, Ky.
Glad you could go to the Ice Follies. Weather cold and wet. On pistol range and the cold wind was nasty. In 6 hours we were wet thru and was in 6 inches RED mud. (Sent by Gen. MUD officially.) I had on 2 pairs wool underwear - wool shirt - and supposed water proof weather breaker -HA HA., helmet liner and gloves --WET - and the rest of my clothes are in the laundry so will wear the wet stuff 'til they dry.
Food is LOUSY.
Student cooks and the officers don't eat with us -- wonder why??
Up tomorrow at 5 AM out on the range again
LOVE Ed.
April 15, 1943
Got down here last week and since have taken and passed the officers candidate tes tand awaiting personal interview with Lt. Wood -- company CO here in Co. C-3rd Bn. AFRTC, Fort Knox, KY.
Now learning to drive a 1/2 track. Weighs about 7 tons.
They say in 3-4 months we will be in North Africa, (don't tell my Mother) - Maybe longer if we get more training. Had a GI haircut -- no hair longer that 1/2 inch and have to use a safety razor. No use electric razor any more. When you write be sure to put US ARMY in the address.
LOVE Ya.
Easter Sunday afternoon 3 PM.
Got the CANDY you sent and I have shared it with some of my buddies. Was issued a special helmet and combat suit. Look like a man from MARS!, but they supposed to keep out the dampness -- Ha HA. Out of 63 men, 20 are in the hospital with colds and worse. Got a 2nd Tetanus shot tomorrow and a Typhoid shot as well&emdash;very sore arm,-They say Yellow Fever shot next week. Pure JOY.
Next week if I get a pass I'm going into Louisville and have a steak dinner cost $5.60 including TIP. Very lazy mess Sgt. cooks everything in (greese). This is company stationary. Note the AFRTC logo. Hope to join the Post Choir and so sing in church services.
Gotta close -- they just blew the MESS whistle.
Bye now.
April -- OOPS -- May 2, 1943.
My new address is: Co. A. Rest is the same. Thanks for the box of cookies and a candy cane. Great! Thanks also for more blank stationary. Envelopes get wet and stick together so have to get rid of those wet ones.
Got a bad cold and cough. Only a fever over 102 gets their attention. Maybe 3 days in the base Hospital. Gota stay on my feet as I am now a squad leader. May be shipped then to Camp McCoy in Wisconsin closer to home at least, and into new wooden barracks.
May 10, 1943
Thanks for the paper. I'm now the best supplied guy here. Asked how come? Answer: I've got a NICE gal in Minnesota. Made Lance Corporal. No extra pay but lots more detail. Squad of 13 men to boss around. May get a 3 day pass next Friday the 28 or 29th. Looks good. A arm band with 2 stripes on a blue background. Stripes are yellow. Wonder where in Louisville is the train station??
See you soon!!!
Edward
May 15, 1943
Tomorrow we go out for 2 weeks in the camps. Can't write out there (security). Had an address by a retiring General. A squad of SKUNKS was also there, but they didn't stink ny thing up. Have a chance to go to a specialist school after basic training. It's called ASTP in Columbus, Ohio. My pass starts June 2nd and lasts for 3 days. Maybe get down to the college and see Mrs. Smith. Have a 20 hour day tomorrow.
LOVE
Edward
May 22nd Im back now in Co.A. Why?
Spent a week near an airport and planes took off and landed every 20 minutes. No sleep that night. And the main line of the Illinois Central was across the road. We had GOOD food in the encampment. Hot and served on metal plates.
Found a friend from MPLS named Sherman Floppier in Co B. Was a Jr. at the college in 1942. Is Dr. Hennemith in the Navy and still on a submarine in the Pacific? I wouldn't like a submarine.
There goes the noon whistle Gotta Jump.
Bye.
June 5, 1943
Just back from the 4 day pass.Looked for you at the station but had to get on the train at 3:50. So missed you. Very sorry.
Details posted for tomorrow. YES I'm on KP -- pots and pans. The Armored force patch is a triangle. Lightening stands for quick action. The cannon for fire power. The track for Mobility and the Yellow color for NHi quality MEN. The RED for bravery and the HBlue for Valor and character. Pretty TRUE I Guess.
Weather now HOT daytimes and a tree to sit under is welcome. (If you can find one.) Thanks for the college program&emdash; I see I'm listed as a CORPORAL -- well almost!
LOVE
Edward
Friday on battle training in the field.
You should see me now - sitting on the back of a 1/2 track using a ration box as a desk.
Had a K ration for lunch and we get 10 in 1's for supper. That means 10 men get sick at a time. But we can heat it up in our mess kits.
Each meal contains a can of meat -- some crackers and a bar of dried fruit. 4 sheets of TICKER tape -- and 4 cigarettes- We wash it down with a pint of water Oddly enough they satisfy well almost.
I will drive this 7 ton monster day and night for the next 7 days. Spend more time greasing the tracks than in the field -- but will tow a 37MM field gun.
Had guard last Tuesday and had a down pour so after getting totally wet -- I stripped down to the basics and hung my uniform in the tent to drip dry some!
Know what a farmer does in Minnesota in the summertime. No I'm no farmer ever.
June 26th, 1943
Have our 25 mile hike tomorrow. Up at 4 AM for breakfast start hiking at 5 AM and takes 12 hours they say.
Then out for 3 more weeks on advanced battle training. Oh Chiggers!
Remember the time I went fishing at Lake Calhoun. Caught 3 sun fish and took them home and Mother threw them OUT. We had canned salmon for supper. End of me being a fisherman.
Saw the picture: "Flicka" in the field and enjoyed it but had to stand up for the whole show. About 300 men saw the show and they smoked a lot.
About July 17th I go to ASTP in Columbus, Ohio. For screening and if I pass that I'll get sent to another college for training. At least we will be out of the oak trees and chiggers they say.
Wonder how we go by train or bus? About 200 men are going there.
21 July 1943
Living in the empty stadium at Ohio State Un.
Went from Fort Knox to Columbus, Ohio by train. Private coach air conditioned
Were the last 2 coaches at the end of a long hospital train bound EAST where?
Took the B & 0 from Louisville to Cincinnati. Had sandwiches and milk and peaches for food. Had fresh corn on the cob here tonight.
Nice and clean here and all the fresh cold MILK we can drink. Don't know how long we will be here so hold up on the mail.
My address now is:
1547SU STAR Unit Co A-4
0hio State University, Ohio 10
Good night from HEAVEN
Edward S.
PART 3 Columbus, Ohio
October 19, 1943
Letter -- to Miss Schrupp.
We have our heaviest classed on Monday and Wednesdays, and some Friday morning. Tues and Thurs are lighter. Our day is from 8 am til 5 pm and that includes noon meal and sometimes a breakfast too.
Thanks for the LOUD Pj's. The "craze" hit Columbus and this is the first time I have slept in PJ's since March 1943. Our quarters for sleeping is on the 3rd floor and they leave the exit doors open at night for better circulation and by 4AM it's real chilly. Morning call is at 6AM and so we shave the night before and just barely have time enough to get a uniform on and be ready for "fall out" at 0730AM.
We got partial pay Last week and on Saturday I went down and put all but $10.00 in a savings account. Good thing I did. Some day someone got into our Frat house and went thru our dressers in our study rooms and lots of the men lost over $50.00 Who did the burglery ? But when we find out -- he will get company punishment. I wont tell you what that is in this letter.
Today is 7 months anniversery I've been in the Army. Had a letter from a man I knew in Fort Knox that didn't get in ASTP He is in Africa fighting in the desert.
He doesn't like it there.
We have finished algebra and start on Trig Monday. My Algebra score was less than good. And I know NOTHING about Trig!
There goes Supper whistle so will finish this about bed time.
Oct.27, 1943
Still hold Thursday evening for Choir practice to keep Bert Lemmons happy. Sang a short solo in an anthem Sunday about 1 page long actually a duet with a lady in the Soprano section. Went well.
Food is bad again shortage of MEAT and potatoes are real short. Have to take so many notes in class I wish I had my typewriter here but couldn't use it in the lecture room -- disturb the others.
Here's a story for the Grace church bulletin&emdash;I keep an extra pair of shoes on a shelf in the closet. We have a mouse in that closet. Today the Captain made a surprise inspection and pulled the shoes off the top shelf and found a used hankerchief hidden in the shoe and also Mrs. Mouse -- which he dumped in the toilet -- and wrote me a note that HE had dispatched MY mouse. He was real nice about it -- had to smile about that.
Didn't get extra detail at all.
Nov 18th, 1943! Dates all mixed up.
Think my furlough will start Dec 4th. The day after we finish the 1st term. Many have already gotten their train tickets. But I think I will wait 'til closer to Dec. 2nd.
Last Saturday all the CADETS marched at 1/2 time. Football game Ohio played Miami college and guess Ohio won!
I missed the last part of the game as I had business to do for the Hdqrtrs and so went down town to do that before the banks closed.
There goes the 7 PM whistle so break out the TRIG books and get busy.
LOVE to all
Edward.
January 2, 1944. Get that l944!
Here's a picture of our Frat House. The bathroom is directly over the front door and my study room is next LEFT to the bath and over the captain's office 2nd floor.
Jan 1st I went downtown and at midnight joined the happy folks to celebrate the NEW year.
Went to Trinity Episcopal Church for 11PM service tho. Communion. Surely enjoyed the Christmas at home and at 2628 Portland Your house.
Had a nice letter from Ella in Henderson. Must try to answer that.
January 24, 1944
Had rain all week long and we are now in heavy overcoats as we march to classes.
Can't seem to settle down to the grind of studying but MUST.
This starts our 2nd term and its very HEAVY,
Have my Air Corps papers all ready in case ASTP folds.
Lonesome tonight. Air of dred hangs over the University. Guess the real trouble is -- we live as college students but are subject to ARMY regulations and the 2 don't always fit.
Sorry to cry on your shoulders. Rub my eyes and get cracking.
Lots of latrine rumors flyin around some funny and most very depressing. The officers wont talk about it. So something is in the WIND.
March 3 1944
Since I last wrote they have closed he air force to more transfers. Made it JUST IN TIME for once.
My Best friend --Darwyn Snyder was late getting in the air force and so he goes to Camp Campbell and into the tanks again. He feels gypped and I don't blame him.
The last ASTP finals were taken and I did GREAT in all BUT MATH (as usual)B's and C's in the rest and an E in MATH which ends things here. Gotta Fall out soon.
Bye now
Edward
March 14th, 1944
We ship out in 2 days. Last Sunday when we got back we had a TERRIBLE shock. Had a formal formation and the base commander read an official announcement -- saying ALL trainees who took and passed the air force tests are now transferred to the INFANTRY!!!
Worst piece of bad luck since 1943. Called the Folks and they took it pretty well. Guess we will be sent to Camp Swift in Texas in 3 days now.
End of the dream of being in the air force.
Will send you a new address from down there (the eyes of Texas are upon you - The Blue Bonnet State).
Wonder how long the train trip back to MPLS will take IF I get a furlough while I'm still in the USA?
Yes -- there are tears in lots of eyes.
Monday, March 23, 1944
Our special train of 18 coaches -- Pullmans -- left Columbus at 1PM Friday and in 55 hours we were in Camp Swift, Texas. I had a lower berth and slept quite well after getting used to the click of the wheels on the tracks. Came down to St. Louis and then got pulled by the Missouri and Rio Grand RR. Ate off paper plates and had paper cups to drink out of. Clear skies and it's COLD. I'm in a new barracks and am sitting on my foot locker using a Readers Digest for a desk.
Lots of motor vehicles here so maybe I'll get back in the 1/2 tracks. The Non- Com's say we are likey to be in combat in 3 months. Have a Sgt back from Guadalcanal says the infantry are being killed off like flies. He says the public don't know of the losses of the infantry anywhere.
Just back from our combat physicals and I'm marked COMBAT ready!!!
The 405th Reg was down to 1,200 men and they put 1,500 ASTP men to bring the Division up to full strength. Cannon Fodder.
Just off KP had pots and pans so am off early.
My new address is:
PVT ELS
2nd ASTP Replacement Detachment
405th Infantry APO# 102
Camp Swift, Texas
Long one Isn't it?
(Get that A.P.0.102.) More tears but don't show them.
April 3, 1944
Easter tomorrow. We are getting some of the toughest training I've ever had now. Days start at 4 Am and end after dark.
Have been over the live fire infiltration course. MG bullets 18 inches over our heads. Barbed wire and smoke simulating GAS attacks.
Being in the MUD we don't even think about raising up under fire.
Getting to know the saying "sand in the spinach". Just had a letter from MOM saying that Gpa Voegeli is failing fast. Heart trouble. He's 83 now. Mom pretty LOW too.
Hope to go to Good Friday church service. Communion and Easter Sunday morning service But that may be "out In the field".
Feeling some better. At least I have a roof over my head MOST nights. But sometimes that roof is a tent. Cold in the field.
LOVE YA
ELS
Dear Schrupp...
February 6, 1944
Time enough to answer your of the 3rd. Food gets worse -- very greasy and lots of the Cadets have a bunch of boils back and neck.
So far I've not been troubled but I am cutting my 2 lower wisdom teeth That's what Trig does for me. Lots more talk about the closing of ASTP. Feel like we are sitting on top of a powder charge wondering when it will BLOW!
Very little studying being done -- class averages way down.
Glad you had a dinner with my folks -- good for them and good for you.
Next furlough about March 4th we think.
Bye now
the cadet still
Official Headquarters Army Training Staff
Ohio State University Columbus 10, Ohio.
The following telegram is reproduced for information of all Cadets
Furnish each ASTP trainee without delay the following notice.
To each ASTP trainee -- without delay
NOTICE
Subject -- Reduction in your ASTP!
You were assigned to the Army Specialized Training Program because it was thought that the courses of instruction would make your usefullnes to the Army bigger. Increase your value to the Army that much more extensive. You have been working under high pressure to master the subjects assigned. BUT the time has come for the majority of you to be assigned to other active duty. To break the enemies backbone and lead to their surrender.
It is necessary to bring the full weight of American manpower to that end.
Because of this immediate need you will be transferred to other Army duties at once.
Most of you will go directly to the ground forces and service overseas soon.
The ASTP will be reduced prior to 1 April 1944 to about 3500. This will include 500 pre-induction students and advanced medical Dental and Engineering groups and some advanced language trainees. The USM Military groups as well. Most of you cadets will immediately go to the Infantry -- to bring already depleted ground forces up to combat strength
Your Intelligence Training and high leadership will raise the combat strength quickly. The thousands of ASTP trainees who have been assigned to field units have set high standards for you to follow..
BY ORDER OF THE SEC. of WAR
George K. Middleton, General -- Washington DC
So ends the wonderful ASTP program.
February 23, 1944
Dear folks
WELL it happened. Chemistry instructor late to class so we get the hour off, I had a hunch this was going to happen so I applied and took the Air Force tests last Saturday and passed both the mental and physical tests and I am now awaiting orders to be sent to Jefferson Barracks, Missouri for air force training May even be a pilot!
About half of our company did the same thing on the advise of Capt. Gallager Our C0. Last Sunday I called MPLS and found the family at home and so told them of the closing of ASTP and of my luck getting into the air force just in time.
Mother took it better than I expected and BILL was very pleased.
About 2400 cadets will be staying at OHIO State but this will also release many of the instructors for active duty in the Army.
In our last Chemistry lab we were making chlorine gas and 7 of us were grouped around a generator when without warning it reptured and I and 3 more men got a big breath of concentrated gas. We washed our eyes and faces in lots of water and went outside to fresh air. Havn't been on sick call but we have been given some pink pills to take every 4 hours for 5 days. I got a nasty headache and cough and at night I have trouble sleeping stretched out flat.
Had we been in an enclosed chamber. We might have been in the Hospital they say. Had a big wind storm last night and the branches of the trees whipped around a lot. My address is not set but mail addressed to me here will be forwarded to wherever I.m sent. Don't use Ohio State address again. End of Paradise. Was NICE tho.
New message old letters
April 16, 1944
Nonnie:
Sunday after church.
Took a 5 hour pass into Austin and had an 8 inch steak and wanted to see a movie but the lines were too long. So came back to base and to bed at 2330 Spent 5$ per hour or a total of $9.50.
Even had a double malted milk at Walgreens. Austin is a nice town and its good to get away from the dirt of training.
April 23, 1944
Another week past and most of it in the field. Food is getting better and at noon they bring it out by truck. Wednesday we had baked chicken and mashed potatoes and ice cream. We eat the ice cream as an appetizer because if eaten as dessert, its melted by then.
Last Thursday we has night problem cancelled so took a pass into Austin and heard Alexander Schriner play the university ORGAN. The Co. 1st Sgt gave me a special pass and guess he likes music too!
After the program was over I went back stage and we met and I find Alexander knows Peter Tkach. Later I put thru a call to 3249 Dupont and spoke to Mother as Bill was out. She was glad I called. She sounded very tired. Hope the sun will be good for her spirits.
Bill has bought a river cruiser and hope they get out on the river now.
Monday, I start a short course in chemical warfare and flame throwers. Each company has one man so trained and why I was selected is puzzling.
Only have 4 blisters to worry about on my right foot. Gotta change socks more often
G'night ya all.
April 29th (I think)
Anyhow its PAYDAY. These are wild days. Everyone giving orders that don't make any sense. The 1st Sgt pulled an inspection and guess whose rifle was less that good? Ya, Mine. So I'm restricted for the week end. Have to fall out every 2 hours and that cuts our sleep time down Damn them.
I enclose our division patch. Tell you what it stands for. The round gold circle is for 0. The funny wiggle (a Zee), and the ark is for honor. Get it 0&emdash;Z&emdash;ark. The 102 division.
Last week we spent 3 nights in the field. We fired tracer bullets made at New Brighton arms plant. These tracers are visable for 3-400 yards but its NOT where the actual bullet is going.
So far we have shot about 800 rounds in the field. No wonder war is expensive.
Sorry I missed your birthday but out in the field one has NO time to see or figure a calendar.
Here's the music "Happy Birthday to YOU"
When it rains here gotta stop and close the windows -- It really rains!
Next week I begin a new job in Communications -- working on the telephone wires and in the field using the big radio (the SCR 300) using that I handle all the commo work between the Battalion and the Company officers. The radio weighs 70 pounds and is carried on the back -- has a telephone like a regular phone and is held so the left ear is free and one then writes messages for transmittal to the officers. Need 3 hands I guess!
Wish me LUCK -- Bye now Up at 5 AM tomorrow.
May 3rd, 1944
This has been SOME week. Out in the field running battle attack problems -- and Rain -- Rain -- Rain as well. And lots of ticks and chiggers to eat us.
I was on guard at 0230 and in 20 minutes we had 4 inches of rain. I was real WET and my buddy in the tent was also soaked and wore a wet blanket next morning at formation -- everything was W E T. We looked like 2 drowned FISH.
Yesterday I was a (runner) for the officers back and forth to the weapons platoon under Lt. Weigand. Had to cross a small stream and the log I used broke and I landed in 12 feet of MUDDY water. Radio and ALL.
Been on the flame throwers a lot too. Sorry I cant tell you about them (Censored).
Went swimming in the base pool Saturday. Real nice and CLEAN.
More later I Hope.
ELS
June 4th
The Sgt was looking for a detail to wash windows so -- I snuck out the back door and am now writing in the service CLUB. It's air conditioned!
I am waiting for the NY symphony to come on the National Radio. Got your last letter out in the field so couldn't answer it then.
I stayed up for Tattoo and Taps on Memorial Day night. They play the IRON Bugle for running the base Reveille at 6AM and chow call at 1145AM and supper at 6PM and then nothing until Tattoo and Taps at whatever. Usually 11PM.
Last week camping out I got into some poison Ivy and now my right leg is the size of a watermellon.
Medics put a plaster of Boric acid on it and its supposed to go down in 5 days --we will SEE?
Excuse the short letter. I'm on the RUN.
Edward
June 13, 1944
Dear Nonnie:
I'm in the Music room at present. It's HOT and Im sweating even here.
Next week we move to another camp. Likely on the east seaboard. That tell you SOMETHING????
Don't know for sure where, but latrine rumor says New York city or in New Jersey. Maybe Fort Dix.
Will write again once we are settled. Likely have a troop sleeper -- a box car with metal wire for bunks. Wonder how we will eat?
First class out of cardboard boxes. K rations I mean.
Little red caboose chug chug chug remember the ditty?
June 28, 1944 from Ft. Dix
Well I'm up north finally.
Left Swift Friday at 1800 and we were a 22 car train. Went East to New Orleans and stopped there for 4 hours. So I got off and took a cab to the French Quarter and saw Bourbon Street. Slutty.
At 2100 hrs we started up and came thru Atlanta, Ga. and thru the mountains (hills) and were in Washington, DC In the morning. Couldn't get off the train but did see the Capitol from a distance.
Got to Ft..Dix at 2130 and took trucks to our new barracks.
The train trip was comfortable. Crew sleepers and we ate off paper plates and used paper cups for beverage.
Another GOOD thing is, we are one hour from NY City, 3 hrs to Wash,.DC and now I may get down to see EARL weekends. Latrine rumor keeps us here 3 months before we go "elsewhere." Address is the same -- just add Fort Dix, NJ to it.
July 16, 1944
They say we get a 10 day furlough before we ship out so am hoarding my train money. Maybe in 3 weeks. Talk to Mother re "the code."
At the service club -- met an English soldier and a French officer who were here for some diplomatic duties. Had a good conversation. Saw a friend in Philadelphia, Jean Herman form the College. She is studying Music at the Curtis School. (old flame)
Don't tell Mother.
Aug 31st, 1944
Didn't have time to write for a while. Mother was here for a short visit and I put her up at the Guest House while I was in training days. She sat in the sun and had a chance to see something of Army life days. I am going to keep my (your) sapphire ring and hope I don't have trouble doing that. Keep looking at it and up to the blue skys and see your BLUE eyes daily.
I love you!!
This may be my first censored letter. Maybe -- Yes we go across real soon Where?? And when???????? But soon.
Love you so much
ELS
Sunday, Sept 7, 1944
We have moved again but cant say WHERE. Food is wonderful we eat off stainless trays and as much as we can eat.
Service clubs are fine. We can eat there if we miss a regular meal on base. I am in the Company Hdqtrs now -- still a Private tho.
My temporary address is on the front of the envelope. Note APO 102 c/o Postmaster NY, NY.
October 3, 1944
I am thru being sea sick -- mostly. On a beautiful ship. Eat 2 meals a day but the food is well cooked. Have lots of candy too. Water is rather limited. Get it 2ce a day morning and just before going to bed. In our canteens
This may be an Email -- see who is the censor?? The ship is CROWDED about xxxx aboard. Must tell you about the letter I got from Aunte Mary in the XXXXX dry land.
I've written to the folks so get your heads together and compare notes.
We are in France living in pup tents in an orchard. Keep warm at night. Wear overcoats then and with two in the tent -- kinda crowded.
Experience. Taking a bath in a helmet of COLD water. Stopped to kill a big bug flying around our candle flame in the tent. Didn't eat it tho.
End the day reading my bible and saying some prayers for you and for US too.
Xmas idea -- a good picture of Edna -- would please me greatly and a wool stocking cap would be super wonder. How long it will take for
This letter to get to you in MPLS
October, 5th 1944
We are quite a distance away from the front. But hear big guns firing.
On our long hikes we see lots of tall hills (country like near Lake City, Mn.) Lots of apple orchards and they eat good.
Ducks and horse and saw a mule today. Saw a real Chateau. Massive house and barns. Inside were walls covered with tapestries and very fine pictures on the walls. They say it was the home of a relative of Napoleon. But he's not living there either. Maybe a count was once. Made a fire last night and roasted some apples and potatoes. The other fellows think I should be a COOK!! Used a lard can as a dish
For the apples. No sugar was available
Mail is all tied up. Army efficiency Pony express.
Have some Franks for pocket money. But soon we will be issued invasion money for pay. More paper.
Letters dated Sept to Oct 9, 1944
Mail finally loosend up. We got a bunch of 10 today and I am trying to read them in the order they were written in the USA.
And guess what happening now? It's raining again. Last week I started a new project (growing a moustache.) Yes I'm near H(and). And we are living in a fancy hole in the ground made of solid CLAY some 12 feet underground.
NO roof supports. Hope we don't get a direct artillery hit.
Saw a German pill box that had a direct HIT. Not nice.
Re the cookie duster. Maybe I will wax the ends like the villian in the Opera.
Last meal turkey with mashed sweet potatoes and cranberry sauce.
Feeling pretty good but war is HELL!.
Love to all.
November 2, 1944
Your soldier boy is now in Germany after a rapid trip thru France, Holland and Belgium -- most of that by train. Here we don't move much in the daytime as we can have artillery fall on us during the daytime. Some have come real close. How close? Can't say.
This paper is German and I am using wash blueing as ink.
Food is pretty good but sometimes we augment it with a rabbit, grouse or chicken and that's NICE. We are learning to eat what ever we can get cooked or not cooked very well.
I'm still 2nd in command in Hdqtrs Co. Been a runner and guard for officers and it gets me around more very interesting at times. Maybe if this letter makes good time you will get it by Nov 20.
Thanksgiving day -- wonder what that day will hold for US?
Must stop now and ge tsome sleep nearly midnight here.
LOVE ya.
November 10th, 1944
In Germany nights are cold and we are mostly under ground and I have an extra blanket as well.
When out in the moonlight we move very slowly as one can be seen clearly and we don't want to draw "fire". Was in a big town in XXXXXX censored -- and was in the cathedral. Some 700 years old. I enclose a picture card.
Almost dark and that's my BUSY time -- BOOM that one was close!!!
Please pray for me every day so far I've been saved.
Nov 18th, 1944
Sorry this is in pencil. Just now waiting for some water to heat up to make some bullion to go with my K ration.
Raining again. No wonder as we have nearly constant artillery fire and some is CLOSE!!
Mailed some Xmas cards and they are NOT scenes from around here. Can't tell you where.
Must go out on the LINE so will close.
Pray for me
Edward
December 4th in England
Mailed in Germany and censored by Lt Everson.
Now confined to a bed and letter writing is hard lying down. You will know from my folks that I caught some shrapnel in my left HIP on Nov 28th and it made a BIG hole there. Very lucky it didn't hit my intestines, but it stopped real close to my spine. Had it hit the spine I would be unable to ever walk again.
Being flown to England in a (C) plane xxxxxxx censored. That carry -- xxxxxxx censored -- men. Seemed like I was in Heaven.
Before I left Holland they opened my hip up and took out a bunch of dirt and small shrapnel and had some dope and the nurses when I woke up said I was calling them NONNIE. So, I told them WHO Nonnie was.
Walking is painful just now so don't do very much. I'm trying out some crutches tomorrow.
Hard to find a comfortable position in BED. More surgery tomorrow. Hope it goes good.
My new address is ELS, PFC, 4132, US Army Hospital plant, APO 316A-CO Postmaster NY, NY. Don't let Mother worry too much I'm going to be BETTER I Hope soon.
Edward.
(Wonder what Everson thought when he censored this letter.)
December 10th, 1944
Censored by Lt Everson, as Everson was in Germany and I was in England.
Had a big inspection today. The officer had a hard time to find any dust or anything wrong.
(why was mail written in England sensored by Everson In Germany?)
No explanation...
The inspecting team was first the Ward Master (a Sgt)) then a nurse and then the OFFICER -- Maj. Scillano. This ward is NEVER quiet. Lots of kidding and fun stuff but every so often one of us are appointed to watch a man just back from surgery as they wake up so we then call the nurse and stay in the background.
Ward walls are cream colored and we have some paper ringlets pasted together awaiting the Xmas tree to be placed in the center of the ward. But no lights.
Our newspaper, The "Stars and Stripes" says you have had heavy snow so you are ready for Xmas too. We had 3 inches last night. They say I can't get out to se it tho.
Nicest thing about being in bed?? Clean sheets every week. If we don't bleed into them before that.
MY Hip and back are VERY sore. But it gets better soon I hope.
Must close now. Get my bedtime shots to last until 2 AM when they wake us up for another series of Penicillin.
Christmas DAY 1944
In hospital. In England. Outside, it's raining and the skies are grey. But we have a small fur tree in the center of the ward. No lights on it -- forbidden -- fire hazard. Hard to find anything to write about as nothing happens here that we can write about. No recent mail lately maybe soon?
I'm pretty well healed up now and have to start walking tomorrow going down to PT on crutches. Have leg raising things to do and that HURTS a lot. Havn't put any weight on that LEG in 6-8 weeks..
Hope you had a big Xmas as usual. Regards to Antie, BOB and Frances.
LOVE
Edward
(letter a VEE mail censored by a strange Lt. Not Evenson)
January 4, 1945: England
I'm in bed in a hospital here and they did a surgery on me yesterday.
There is a steep hill behind us and we have SNOW on the hill. Would like to get outside but, that will not be shortly as I'm on crutches. When I get out of bed, hands are shaky too, so letter writing is tough. Am starting to take a few steps each day but they cause me a lot of pain.
Feels like I am walking on egg shells. Date is Jan 4th, 1945. I got hit in Germany end of November, 1944. Been thru five hospitals and thru three here in England.
The 88 that stopped the jeep hit all 3 of us in the back seat. Driver and Lt. were NOT injured in front of jeep.
The flight back to England was about one hour long in a C-47.
Gotta stop for now -- supper is coming and more pills and shots. Arm is getting sore from the injections. Get 6 per day every 4 hours. Kinda BLUE tonight BUT I am no longer paralyzed. Bike I was at first.
I will never forget Nov. 28th, 1944. How Lt Weigand got me 1st treatment and on a jeep to the aid station. We were still under artillery fire then. He was a great officer and glad he wasn't hit then. Hope he will write me here in England.
Bye now
Edward
Final pack letters from England, 1945.
Letter dated 14 January 1945.
To Miss Schrupp:
I am writing tonight from the base service club and its nice and warm here tonight. A buddy from my ward is with me. He lived in Massachusetts.
I got 2 packages from you dated Oct. 28th and Nov. 12th and the candy is still fresh!
How did I get down to the service club?? I am starting to use some crutches and am required to walk a bit more each day so that's how I got to the service club tonight.
I also now have to walk to the mess hall 3 times a day. No more eating in the ward.
Breakfast gets me out of bed at 0630 and its still dark then and lights are dim going down to breakfast. Food is good and we are required to eat all we put on our trays.
Have a dog now in the ward. Crazy pooch. Chases his tail first around one way and then in the other direction. Guess soldiers and dogs are a natural?
We have been issued the NEW hospital uniforms. They are a wool tweed and red coats and pants with a string belt maroon in color. I wear a size large as I still have a bandage on my left HIP.
The 1st surgery didn't go very well. Can't write about it tho -- censored. Just read a new book by Ernie PYLE titled, " Brave Men." See if you can find it in the USA and read it carefully. Tells some important things about a soldier's life in combat.
Bye now
Edward
Sunday, January 15th, 1945. In pencil
Ward radio on and listening to the NY symphony with vocal soloists Gladyce Swarthouse.
So we do sometimes hear some GREAT music. Last week was hard on me. The doctors decided to try and get that steel out of my back. Was under a fluoroscope and they see it clearly in the vertebras. So...
Monday at 8 AM I was put down and in 2 hours they cut. They didn't get it OUT. Was under with sodium Penethol and 2 hours later I wake up in a strange ward and have a LOT of PAIN now and am on strong DOPE. And Iv'e been under more dope for 3 more days, So don't feel very good now.
Used a wheel chair 1st time and use it to get to the bathroom as needed.
Be careful telling Mother about the failed surgery. Understand?
I will write to her later when I feel better
LOVE to all
Edward
January 21st, 1945. Vee mail letter
Package came dated Dec. 26th and the candy was very good. I shared some with my ward mates. Snow has melted and there are lots of rabbits in the grass I see from inside. The doctors went DIGGING again last Friday -- used a local to start off but finally went back to Penethol after 11/2 hours. They didn't get the steel out either so I'm back in bed and doped up good.
They will not tell me why! Just will not talk to me about it. Lost a lot of weight too.
Im trying to keep my spirits UP but that's hard also.
Chow time so will eat in bed again for a few days.
LOVE
Edward
Vee mailed dated February 14, 1945
Letter dated 21 February 1945
Not much happening here today. I'm up and walking a bit. Weather outside is warm they say I havn't been outside in 2 months.
They say some farmers are doing spring plowing. They use teams of 3 horses on the plow.
Had a booster Typhoid shot yesterday. My arm is pretty sore. We get them twice a year.
Wonder what other things will happen next. Won't talk about it to a PFC tho.
We are a bunch of guinny pigs. Down to 115 pounds now. Was up to 135 lb last November, 1944. Guess it's the dope I've had.
Vee mail dated in end of February 1945.
Hard to read as the ink is faded. Ive been here 2 months now -- and still can't understand WHY they didn't get the steel out of my back.
They won't say if they plan to operate again. Maybe they arn't sure where to cut again. Some doctor said he would go in from the BELLY thru my intestines.
Don't like the sound of that!!!!
Letter dated March 1,1945
From Hospital in Devises England
Not much happening here lately BUT I'm outside walking in the country in the warm sun and while I don't go long or far. I'm outside at last. Have gained some weight too.
Yesterday was walking and in back of me came a low flying Spitfire and I twisted around to look at it and found myself in the near-by ditch, We used to react to sound in Germany and guess my sympathetic mind reacted to the
Spitfire plane before my usual mind took over.
Glad no one else saw me in the ditch to laugh at me. And I've found a REAL bath TUB here in the hospital. So, when I get back in the ward -- before supper -- guess what I've got lined up a bath first time in almost 7 months. Goody Goody.
Funny thing to write about and end a letter about. Hope you understand as usual.
LOVE
Edward
Letters dated February 19th and March 3rd from Hospital in England
Not much going on lately. A stalemate I guess as to what to do with me now. Live in a 16 man tent and sometimes we cook our breakfasts here INSTEAD OF GOING UP TO THE MESS HALL FOR MEALS.
My back still very sore and walking is not fun. Nearly 2 years I've been in the Army Stateside and over seas.
Wonder what is in my 201 files? They won't let us see them. They are about US and are kept up to date we are told.
Got a bunch of your mail and will try to answer all that we are allowed to say. Yes, what you write about is TRUE. Your letters are NOT censored. So I read between the lines.
Guess Mother is back from Seattle and GrandPa is failing fast. Gotta end this tonight.
LOVE to all
Edward
Letter dated April 19, 1945 from Charlestown, So. Carolina
Two days out of Bristol, England we hit a hurricane and the seas were real ROUGH. The hospital ship made only 20 miles a day for 3 days.
And we had some pills for sea sickness. They are yellow and come in a black paper package and are real bitter to taste.
One night the ship rolled 45 degrees over at 57 degrees it would have capsized and gone down. Glad I was lashed in my bed and didn't get out on the floor.
Last 2 days we spent on deck daytimes and I've gotten some sun bum too.
Here at Stark General, we are treated like KINGS and have NO duty to pull.
Fresh MILK always and all we need to carry is a glass to drink from.
On Thursday I leave by train going to McCaw hospital in Walla Walla, Washington state. Had hoped to get to MINNEAPOLIS but they specialize in my type of work at Walla Walla -- so there I GO.
After that I can get a 2 weeks furlough they say!
I will write you from there so will have a new address not Stark Hospital any more. I'm still moving slowly but maybe after Walla Walla things MAY improve.
I knew about March 1st that I was coming Stateside but couldn't write about that then. Called BILL and find that MOTHER is out in Seattle again -- that
Grandpa had died and so that ends things out at Aldeiwood for them. And Uncle Albert died too. Airmail stamp now costs 8 cents. Why the rise?
Nonnie -- letter dated April 24, 1945 from Walla Walla.
Got here in 4 days from McCall General and find we are in a NEW hospital and I'm in an orthopedic ward in a private room. Our long hospital train from So. Carolina had 22 cars and as we came deeper into the USA they dropped on a few cars enroute.
In Chicago we laid over 5 hours but could not get off the train and so we were hitched to the Empire Builder to MPLS and out ofMPLS we were attached to the North Coast Limited to Spokane, Wash.
I was in a specially built hospital car built special for the ARMY. Bigger than a
Pullman and very NEW.
Room for 33 patients and have a complete kitchen and 2 bathrooms and a crew of one doctor and two nurses on shift 24 hours a day. And a ward man as well.
Cars are heated and air conditioned also. I had a bed beside a window so at night I kept the shades UP and watched the country roll by. LOVELY.
Naturally the mountains held me spellbound.
My address is: Ward 2, Walla Walla General Hospital, Walla Walla, Washington state. Guess I will be here 2-3 more months after more surgery. The supervising COL is from Wadena, MN and seems to be very nice and knowledgeable. (I HOPE SO.) Sun just going down so I'll close for now. See you soon I hope.
LOVE to all
Edward
Lights go out at 2100 hours -- so good night.
My love
ELS
Last letters from Walla Walla hospital dated 30 April 1945
Dear Nonnie
Rained hard all last night and looks like more coming today.
A bunch more letters came from over seas and its kinda funny to be reading" past history. But it fills in the GAPS some.
Have gotten a complete dress class A uniform so got all the insignia and ribbons and took them in to a tailor and even had the uniform pressed and wore it back to the hospital. BUT first I had a double malted milk for supper and went and saw the movie "Arsenic and Old Lace" with Cary Grant. They showed two comedies -- both with Laurel and Hardy. Laughed my self silly. The best was a scene where the two clowns get an upper berth in the train and just as soon as they get into bed the train gets to the station and they have to get OFF. FUNNY.
After the show I walked back to my ward and it rained again hard. So I've got to get my dress uniform repressed.
Went to chapel yesterday and now am loafing in the day room.
LOVE
Edward
May 6, 1945
Dear Nonnie:
Sun is out and it gets HOT here by noon and up to over 100 by 1400 hrs but at sundown it cools off to 80's.
Finally got the rest of my Xrays done and they clearly show the fracture in the vertebras and the steel lodged against my spine.
Wonder why they didn't see the fractures over in Europe?
Next I will have a full dress consultation and find out what more they will do here about the fractures.
The worst fracture is in the 5th lumbar arch and HOPE I won't be put in a full body cast ever.
Wonder who all will be in that panel of doctors for the consult? Hope to get a furlough before they cut again but more likely after they do what ever they do!
May 17, 1945
Walla Walla Hospital
Had the Orthpedic consultation and the four doctor looked me over fully. Had the xrays there and they say that since the fractures are healed and not open that they will NOT do further surgery NOW. And no body cast and I'm glad I guess.
The steel is lodged between the 4th and 5th vertebrae and is surrounded by hard scar tissue and that keeps the steel firmly anchored.
The sharpest end of the steel is less than 1/8 inch from the spinal chord -- but that's their verdict.
They suppose that the shrapnel passed thru the hip bone and that was what slowed the steel down They call it the pelvic arch.
The good LORD was surely with me on Nov 28th, 1944.
They say that the shock of the steel passing into the hip and spine caused the paralysis and that there must have been a lot of internal bleeding in that area then.
So now they suggest that I take a CDD discharge and apply for my pension so guess that's the answer to the whole matter.
They say they think I will have 50% disability and that would give me about $35.00 per month for LIFE.
All of this information will be attached to my 201 file.
Have been approached by the Vets of Foreign Wars and the Am. Legion but will wait until I get home before I decide which one to go in.
Did I tell you about the letter you sent last December, 1944?
I has been following me as follows: Post marks to POE NY, NY to 4132 Hospital to APO 316A, to HP 4165 509, # 3" to Charleston So. Car, Stark Ben Hosp,. to Walla Walla Hospital dated May 7th and now to MPLS.
World traveler.
May 27, 1945
Dear Nonnie:
We are in kaki's again and am awaiting my furlough. Train fare to MPLS and back will be about $35.00
Found a 4 leafed clover in the lawn so here it is for you safe keeping. Talk to you soon I HOPE.
Edward.
Just got a forwarded package dated December 23, 1944. Followed me from the USA to Germany -- on to England and then back to the USA -- and to Stark General and out to Walla Walla -- and the candy is still eatable!
WOW!!
My furlough should start June 4th so stay at home and I'll call you when I get to MPLS.
LOVE to all
Edward
TELEGRAM: Dated June 5,1945
Dear NONNIE:
Sent from Missoula, Mont.
"Arriving 2nd section North Coast Limited Wednesday night." Edward. (June 6th, 1945).
Was met at station by Nonnie -- Bill and Mother and the dog. Not on furlough but fully discharged from the ARMY and NOW a civilian.
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Additional Pages Devoted to Mr. Edward L. Souder's Military Career:
Edward L.
Souder: Letters to Miss Schrupp
Edward L. Souder: Letters Home
Edward L. Souder: Story Before Combat & Diary
Edward L. Souder: Ed's Story (Co. F., 405th Reg.)
Edward L. Souder: Additional Exerpts from Ed's Career
Edward L. Souder: Photo Album & Scrapbook
Ed's entire story, in his own (unabashed) words can be read on the website,World War II Stories -- In Their Own Words: Army Heroes, along with 28 other stories written by members of his infantry company. I highly recommend visiting the site and reading Ed Souder's story. I found it riveting. For those of you who wish to contact Ed, he can be emailed by clicking on the image below:
