Letters 30 - 35

Letter # 30

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked February 4, 1944

Wednesday night, 1944

Dear Mom,

At last Uncle Sam is gonna give me time to write a decent letter. Basic is for the better part over. Monday we had six hours of mental exams Think I did fairly well. Tuesday we had graduation exercises in the form of a 25 mile march. We did it in 8 hours so you can imagine the cadence. Today we really did things up fine. Began this morning with 2 hours of drill, then two hours to clean rifle, equipment & huts. They really poured it on in the afternoon We had our final physical tests, 33 push ups, 11 burpees in 20 sec, 300 yds in 45 sec (with G.I. shoes of course) carry a man on our back for 75 yds in 20 sec, an agility course, & then the pay off, a 4 mile forced march (run with full packs) in less than 50 minutes. I qualified 100% in everything except the running but then no one could in that, made 49 sec & best time was 47 so I’m pretty well satisfied.

Tonight I’m damn tired but still have strength enough to raise a pen. Was thinking of sending a night letter but couldn’t say much in 25 words anyhow. Oh! Almost forgot to mention, our platoon was the only one in the battalion which didn’t lose a man in the 25 mile march. We were also the best on the forced march losing only one man as compared to the numerous casualties of other platoons. Also we had a drill down and all the officers in the Battalion agreed that our platoon was the best drilled in the Battalion and many said we were the best looking training group they had ever seen, all of which puts us on top where we belong. I’ll give you one guess who’s the best soldier in the platoon (ha, ha)

Well, now that all my bragging is done maybe I can give you a little news. Rumors are flying thick and fast but I’m pretty sure that I might have a chance of going either northeast or Midwest, Just have to keep hoping for the best, but its up to the army as usual. I’d like to get within 1000 miles of home and then I’d always be able to get a couple days home if I had a 1 week furlough, which is what they give. Maybe I’ll be home for my birthday if all goes well.

Appreciated your letter about my boys, they’re the best guys in the world and I’ll never stop reliving the times the Dragons have had together. It’l be a great day when we all come home again. We’ve always planned a frat cottage out at the lake some summer. Whatever summer it is or how many of us there are we’ll have that someday, guess everyone will be happy when that day comes. The army will work that fat fanny off Doc. That’s one thing they don’t tolerate. Kenny won’t be such an egoist either after the air corps has him for awhile. Even though the air corps isn’t much of an outlet compared to the fighting Infantry they must have a little discipline at least. It’l seem darned funny saluting Harry & the rest. But M maybe I’ll beat them to it & they’l have to salute me. Doubt if my eyes could pass O.C.S. but I’ll never stop trying, they can count on that.

Glad to hear “Ma Green” moved off the street. The kids can grow up in peace now and won’t have to look at Randolph like we did.
Hope everyone is healthy, wealthy & I know your all wise. Should be good & healthy after that two # of butter. The food down here is nothing to what I used to have but it keep one alive & that’s the main purpose I guess. We eat everything (except egg plant) and absorb all the nourishment we can from it. Don’t eat for pleasure any more, just to get full so we can keep going. You should have known before Kenny & Doc tried on my hat that the only one heads an Infantry soldier’s hat fits is the soldier’s and his father’s right Dad? Good night to all and love to all the Cowleys.


Eddie Paul

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Letter # 31

Pvt. E.P. Cowley 42025054
7th Co. 5th Regt ASTP
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Saturday, February 5, 1944

Mother,

At last our training is over, we just returned from the final review. Everything went off great in the parade. Now we’re soldiers after all our work. I’m going over to see Danny this afternoon. Its about an 8 mile walk but whats that to me now. You gave me a rather odd address but with the help of nineteen buddies I decoded it and think I know where he should be.Well, all we have to do now is wait until we’re shipped. Haven’t the slightest idea where I’ll be going but I think I’ll know sometime next week. As soon I do find out I’ll let you know.

Going into town today for another one of those steaks. Saw John Woodman last week for probably the last time until the war ends.
Feel fine, still putting on weight. Maybe I’ll weigh as much as Dad when I get home. Of course not as chubby. Bet he’ll shoot me if I keep up that kind of talk. We get a furlough after 3 months of college. I’m getting closer all the time. I’ll be home before you know it. If I go north there’s a chance we might get a delayed route or something and I’d have a chance to stop at Buffalo. Naturally that’s very doubtful but it sounds good anyhow.

Can’t understand how they expect Danny to take basic. Its gonna be very tough on that bum leg of his. Hope he can stand it though, know he’d like it. Most of it was very interesting but also very fatiguing. I’ll have to give him a few good pointers, guess I made all the mistakes possible. Peggy sent a very nice letter which I’ll answer next week. Should a have a few minutes now that we’re thru.

They (the army) made up some programs for us. Think you’l like them. Will send it home tomorrow. You’l have a tough time picking me out of all that Khaki. I’m kneeling in the 3rd row, 2nd from the Louie on the right. I forgot to thank you for the fudge & cookies. They were swell.

Have to get going before they stick me on some detail. Love to all,

Eddie

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Letter # 32

Pvt. E.P. Cowley 42025054
7th Co. 5th Regt ASTP
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked, February 9, 1944

Tuesday, 1944

Mother,

Hello again! I’m taking a night off for the letter writing and there’s no better place to write than home so here’s the news.
I saw Danny Sat., he looks swell, feels fine and still likes the army. (he doesn’t know) He was starting training Monday so I told him a little of what is ahead of him. Looked at his rifle. Never saw anything so dirty in all my army career. Tell Marie if he doesn’t get it clean soon, he’s gonna spend almost as much time in the Kitchen as I did. He’s got a fairly nice location so I a imagine he’l do alright for himself. He said something about taking only 8 weeks training. That I wouldn’t count on. The army just isn’t like that. They’re even giving us a post training course now which we is harder than basic.

Haven’t heard anything yet about about shipping. I’m all set to go but kinda suspect we won’t leave for another week or so. Its okay with me though as the weather down here is fine, I’m feeling good and they’ve even got ice cream at the P.X. We’re not doing much, had a couple marches this week that’s about all. I’ve even seen a couple shows so everything is fine.

I’m not going to get the gloves & shoes until I go north, I hope, hope, hope. I’m gonna try & catch up with my writing so I’ll close. Love to all.

Little Ed
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Letter # 33

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
7th Co. 5th Regt ASTP
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked, February 12, 1944

Mother,

I enclosed a defense stamp for Peggy so don’t lose it when you open the letter. I’m sorry about that Cornell, I was just kidding Betty. Of course I’ve still got a chance of going north. Somehow or other it doesn’t bother me too much where I’m going to be sent. As you say its almost too much to hope for Cornell, but I’m expecting the worst so I won’t be disappointed. I’m really very sorry that you got so excited over the rumor I spread. First of all I’ve got to get out of here. It looks like we might be here any length of time up to a month. They’re giving us advanced & review training. We have a march every other day so we won’t be getting soft.

How does Danny like his basic so far? Butch doesn’t know what a soft life he’s in for in that slapstick navy of ours. Well I’ve got to shine up my rifle some more so I’ll be thinking of home and marching for another couple of days, so long.

Love,
Eddie
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Letter # 34

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
7th Co. 5th Regt ASTP
Fort Benning, Georgia

Miss Peggy Cowley
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked, February 17, 1944

Hello Peggy,

How ya been kid? I’m sorry I haven’t written but you know I didn’t have much time before. Glad to hear to you did okay (notice that “okay”, I used to do okay, you did fine) in your exams. You couldn’t top my mark in Ec.Cit. but I could never top your mark in Latin so that makes us even ha!ha!

I’m gonna send you $7$ worth of war stamps soon so make room for them in your book. By the way, you must have quite a collection by know haven’t you. How’s your roller skating these days? Mother says you go up to G Skateland quite a bit. Must be pretty lively up there now that your club is going in mass. Stay away from all the servicemen though as they’re much too old for you. I know, I’m one of them.

Did you get your sweater yet? I still feel guilty about not sending you the design. As I said before I had it all drawn but then I realized I didn’t know the color scheme so I managed to lose it.
Well, I’ll be leaving Fort Benning soon, next week in fact. I still don’t know where I’m going but I hope it isn’t too far away from home as I wouldn’t be able to get home on furlough and that would break Bette McKerrows heart. Would it not?

Things must be pretty quiet around Parson with all the boys in the army. Do the kids still hang around down there? Well, its time I went to chow so I can build up my delicate frame. I also just received the So. Buffalo News so I’m gonna take a peek at it. Write soon!

Love,
Eddie

P.S. Just received your Valentine. Its swell! Thanks a million.


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Letter # 35

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
7th Co. 5th Regt ASTP
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked, February 17, 1944

Wednesday, 1944

Dear Mom,

I’ve got today off so I’m going to catch up on my writing once more. Luckily, I was put on a detail last night and managed to avoid working today. Well, yesterday I turned in my rifle and bayonet. Hated to do it of course but its about time they took the things off our hands. This morning I found out we’re leaving between the 24th & 26th. Destination unknown but its gonna be either Maine, middle west or California. From pretty reliable rumors I’ve gathered that the majority of us will probably go to California. I’ll have to hope like the devil that I go to Maine. By the way, how does that Stein song go? I understand we’re given some consideration as to our original service command. Hope so!

How’s everything at home? Guess its getting pretty cold up there from what my correspondents tell me. Did you hear Johnny Fungen got a discharge. Don’t know why myself, Bette mentioned it. Bob DeWitts in Greensboro N.C. Says he doesn’t like the air corps, he doesn’t know what a vacation he’s taking.

I’m gonna start taking $6.25 out every month for war bonds. I’ve They’ve discontinued the $3.75 so next month I’ll change over. You should receive a bond in the next month or so as my 5 months will soon be up. From then on you’l get a bond every 3 months which should be a little better. Also I have $7 worth of stamps which I will send home. I’d like Peggy to have them for as an Easter present or something similar.

Its starting to rain. Feels great to hear the rain beating on the roof for a change instead of the helmet. We’re having a big company party tomorrow night, chicken & everything. A few of the boys are going to put on a little musical afterwards so it should be a lot of fun.

40 hours a week sounds a lot better than 48. Hope you like your new job, imagine it will okay. You’l be right next door to Dad which should be fine. Maybe you can play checkers over at the firehouse during lunch hour. Speaking of checkers I played the hut champion the other day. I almost beat him, how I don’t know. As it was the game was a draw. He insists on a return match but I tell him I can’t be bothered. Also told him Dad was the best checker player in the Fire Dept. That kinda scared him so I’ll let things stand as they are for awhile. I’ve really built that father o’mine up. Hope he appreciates it. He’s famous all over the United States for just about everything now. Well, best of health to all from your khaki wacky son.

Love,
Eddie

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The Number One "Silly Song" of 1944 Mairzy Doats

Letters 25 - 29

BIVOUAC

Letter # 25

Pvt E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked January 18, 1944

Dear Mom,

At last I’ve got a minute to write, I hope. Received the candy you sent and have been having a wild time with it. Those little cookies were wonderful, thanks a million.

Perhaps you’ve received my pictures by now, hope you think its alright. I sent the photos in quite a hurry. Nans & Aunt Pegs are together & Grandma’s & Flo & Ed are also in the same package. Didn’t have time to address anymore envelopes and besides I forgot Flo & Nans address besides that it was cheaper that way, of course I’m very generous with my money but I must have a little Jew in me. I was beginning to wonder if I was ever going to get into town to send those pictures suppose you were too. After I sent the pictures we (five of us) went to “Pat Pattersons” and had a great big “T” bone steak with French fried potatoes & onions, & ice cream sundaes & 2 big pieces of chocolate pie, and even two bottles of beer.

(Sat morn, 3 days later) Never had time to finish this letter before and am now going to do my darndest before something happens again. I have today and tomorrow off to get ready for the next 2 weeks of bivouac Monday morning.

I’ve been reading your letters over and that part about a Thanksgiving dinner sounds wonderful. When I get home on furlough I’m not going to say anything about it to anyone but you of course. That way I’ll be able to spend a nice quiet enjoyable evening by the fireside. Am looking forward to a nice hot bath and long bull session with Dad.

Its too bad about Aunt Margaret, kinda complicates conditions, even more. If Aunt Nellie doesn’t come to Buffalo what will she do in Corning. We’re running out of relatives down there aren’t we?

Very glad to hear Danny got in, bet it makes him feel swell. I thought he would get in, told him so before I left. Only hope he doesn’t take anything like I’m taking as it would be terrific on his bad foot. Hope he can get himself a commission after a little more study.

Didn’t I tell you John W. was coming home on furlough? Thought I did. I was out with him a few times down here and it certainly was swell to see someone from So. Buffalo. Imagine Roy will be coming down here soon as it is the only paratroop school in the country. I’d like to see him before I leave if its possible.

Well, 10 weeks of basic (2 ½ months) are over, only 3 more to go. The last 3 are going to be good & tough. Its all tactical training for the next 2 weeks and we sleep out in the pup tents. If I come thru that everything will be fine.

Guess that just about covers almost everything so I shall go back to my rifle and wait for another detail. Best of health and lots of love to all.

Eddie Paul

P.S. I’m enclosing $15 to be added to my account. Tell me how much I’ve got now. Thanks a lot.

Letter # 26

Pvt E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.

Postmarked January 18, 1944

Dear Cowleys,


I just received a snapshot that one of the fellas took of some of the boys in our hut. We’re not allowed to have cameras on the post so if I wanted the picture I had to send it right away. It isn’t very good of me but it’s a good picture of our bayonets. Gives you a vague idea of how formal we dress down here.

Well, right now I’ve been in the army longer than Dad was in the last war. He was in 87 days, isn’t that correct? Just a rookie. Guess he had a good interview anyhow.

Want to let you know that I can receive mail on maneuvers but I won’t be able to write for 2 weeks as we don’t have any thing to write with. We carry a 100 lb load on our backs & it doesn’t leave much room for stationary.

Well, I want to get some letters written so I’ll have to be closing for awhile. Drop me a few lines and keep up my morale while I’m sleeping in my fox hole.

Love to all,
Eddie Paul

P.S. Hope you know which one is I.

Letter # 27

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

January 25, 1944

Dear Mom,

Received your letter Monday. Was beginning to wonder if my money had made it home. I’m gonna try and send home some more in case I ever get furlough. Forgot to thank you for the Brownies in my last letter so I want to thank you now very much. They came on bivouac when I was starving and boy! Did they taste great.

I borrowed some paper & a pen to write this letter. Am writing on a blanket in Harry Cook’s pup tent. Thought you might like to know that everything was coming along fine and I expect to be back in garrison Saturday morning.

We’re working 12 hours a day now. 4 in the afternoon & 8 at night. Its only gonna last a few more days so I don’t mind it too much knowing that soon training will all be finished. Johnny Woodman is back in camp and we’re trying to get together that big dinner Sat night. Probably will be that last chance we’ll have of seeing each there for duration

Chow call, gotta rush

Love to all,
Eddie Paul


Letter # 28

Pvt E.P. Cowley 42025054
7th Co.5th Regt. A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Ga.

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Sunday
January 23, 1944

Please excuse the stationary., Rhoda sent it. It isn’t Infantry so I’m gonna use it up as fast as I possibly can.


Hello folks,

Somehow or other we got a big break today and they brought us back to garrison to clean ourselves up a bit, not too much of course.
I’m awfully sorry you were worrying about me so much. They way we’re living now its next to impossible to write. No news is good news however so try not to worry if you don’t hear from me for a week or so.

Thus far we’ve had a wonderful break in weather, keeping my fingers crossed. The sun shined all week and sleeping in the pup tents wasn’t bad at all. My “ Boy scout” tricks came in handy and I kept good and warm. Last week we had a couple cross country marches at night. They were really good and tough but they’re over at last. Next week all we have is 4, eight hour night problems and then we come to camp on Friday. We eat breakfast and dinner in the darkness, no smoking, no talking at all, and no rattling of mess kits, no heavy breathing, & practically no food. We’re all getting like owls. When the sun comes out we can hardly see.

I glad you liked the picture even with brown eyes, as I said before I would have sent a frame but I was afraid the glass might break on its long trip. Guess you would just as soon get one that you liked yourselves. Won’t have time to make that thing for Peggy’s glove club (they just fooled me with some green ink) but I think it would be better & much cheaper for the girls to pick out one of their standard designs which they have in stock. That’s the way the Dragons got their emblems.

Next week end if we can get passes we have a big graduation party planned. About 20 of us are going to a restaurant in town where the serve a delicious T-Bone steak dinner for $2 We’re all just living for those steaks and French fried potatoes. Hope we can all make it thru this week and finish up for once and for all with this basic training.

They say that all of us who finish successfully will be issued expert Infantry medals and that’s something anyone would be proud to wear. Next pay I intend to go to some store in “Yankee land” and dress myself up with Civy shoes and leather gloves. Boy it will be great to be clean for awhile anyhow. I’m just hoping I go north to school, someplace like Cornell, Princeton, or U.B. However if my luck continues as it has I’ll probably go to Southern Cal.

I’ll write to Aileen, Pap and all the rest when I have lots of time which should be next week. By the way I hope you received the money I sent, namely $15. Well I have to start washing so please don’t worry anymore and don’t let Dad catch the flu as I want him good and healthy for the wrestling match we’re going to have when I come home.

Love to all,
Eddie Paul

Letter # 29

Pvt. E.P. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked January 31, 1944

Dear Mom,

Saturday morning, got in from bivouac about 6:30 in the morning after marching all night. Just a quick line to let you know I’m in pretty good shape & darn anxious to finish training. Received two letters from home & one from Aunt Peg early this morning. Peg says you’re numbering my letters. What number am I up to now?

Seems great to be seeing day light again. This last bivouac we had eight night problems. Got quite sick of walking, running, fighting and eating in the dark all the time. Was kinda worried that I might walk over a cliff on one of those problems but luckily I didn’t.
Thursday night we (Battalion A) attacked the enemy which was Battalion B. My squad wound up by destroying the enemies right flank & capturing the Battalion Commander. He was quite peeved and insisted we couldn’t have done it if we were using live ammunition but nevertheless he was greatly relieved when I finally took the tip of my bayonet away from his back.

We had the best weather possible, it couldn’t have been any better. Didn’t rain or snow for 2 weeks. The ground was pretty warm so I didn’t mind sleeping at all. Tonight we’re going in town for a steak & a few beers. We’ve really earned the privilege, believe me. Must get ready to leave so best of health and lots of love for all.

Eddie Paul


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The 1940s were a great time for music, but we have now come to 1944 and some songs so great they are still being performed in clubs and on stages 65 years later. This is the year of the "Great American Songbook". We will kick off the hit parade with Michael Buble's modern version of the The Mills Brothers song first released in 1944"You Always Hurt The One You Love"

Letters 22 - 24 The Holiday Letters

Letter # 22

Pvt E.P. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked December 24, 1943

Thursday

Dear mom,

Been having a tough time trying to figure out how to make that phone call. I’m trying tonight and have high hopes of getting it thru. Wouldn’t have a chance of calling Christmas (it would take at least 6 hours) and tomorrow night I want to go into town and get my pictures and start them for Buffalo before bivouac, which is early Sunday morn.

All this week I haven’t had 10 minutes to myself. We’re getting ready for our trip and everything is in high gear. Feel as though I’ve neglected everyone by not sending cards or anything but just couldn’t do it. Hope those pictures make up for everything. Honest to God I think I’ve received a thousand Christmas cards, including $10 from Grandma and Aunt Flo, $2 from Aileen and Tom, the $5 from home of course, the package from home, the package from nan, and a nice little handbook and diary from Jane Stumph plus smokes from Aunt Peg. Also a swell great big letter from all my “classmates” at state. It was swell and I really appreciate everything. Be sure and thank everyone for me and tell them I’ll write as soon as we get in off the range.

By the way I hear “Doc” is in the hospital, I hope he’s all right. Let me know if you can find out how he is.

Tomorrow we go out on the firing range and shoot live ammunition for the 1st time. Do you realize I’m more than half way thru basic? The time seems to drag at times but I guess its moving along. Didn’t think it was possible to learn so much in such a short time, they really pile the stuff on us.

Just put the call in, the operator said it would take 3 to 4 hours so I’m in for a good long wait. I’ll try and get some letters out. Your card was very nice but you could never be as proud of your son in the army as your son is of you. I think your both tops and Peggy Lou is getting better all the time. Who knows but someday I might even love Peggy. Just joking anyone that can get a 97-1/2 is certainly my sister.

You asked about my numbers. Here they are 42025054 serial number; 381423 rifle number; 143977 bayonet number; 30 rifle roster number; 5 mortar squad number; 8 rifle and machine gun squad number. Does that straighten everything out? I’ve got quite a few of them.

Well I suppose I should close and try to answer that pile of mail. Hope you had a good Christmas and hope that the next year will bring us all together again. Best of health to everyone and best wishes from your favorite son.

Eddie Paul

Letter # 23

Pvt E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Xmas night

December 25, 1943

Dear folks,

Its Christmas night and I’ve just finished all my packing for tomorrow. All set for bivouac at last. Gee, it was great talking to you the other night. I couldn’t think of much to say in that five minutes. Guess that’s the way it goes though. I could just see the Christmas tree with all the lights and trimmings and Dad sitting on the couch with a bottle of Ballantines. Kinda made me feel as though I were home again.

I’m sorry but my pictures won’t be home for about a month. Last night I tried to get into town to get them but couldn’t get a bus or taxi. We walked for 4 hours and finally gave up after about 10 miles. Now I won’t be ale to get into town until after the 2 weeks.

Lights are out a in a few minutes so I have to close for now. Happy New Year to all and my love.

Eddie Paul


Letter # 24

Pvt E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked January 4, 1944

New Years 1944

Dear folks,

I’m celebrating the New Year by taking time off to write a letter or two. Received two letters from home today, one from Peggy. Guess I called the Ballantine’s night, think all the odds were with me however. Lou is calling his shots too so you say.

Well I’ve got some good news for you I qualified with the MI, garand as you probably know it. No matter what you call it its still the rifle and its required that we are qualified marksmen to go to school. Sounds kinda foolish but thats the way everything sounds in the army. Glad its over however, another successful phase in my army career. I also qualified as high expert with the 30 cal Browning machine highest in the 1st platoon even. It doesn’t mean anything but it sounds great. Among the other weapons which I’ve fired is the 60mm mortar, carbine and anti tank grenade. The grenade is fired from the 03’ Springfield which Dad probably used to drill with. Almost had tomorrow off but I got K.P. as usual so I’ll be busy for about 14 hours.

Tell Peggy I won’t be able to send the design because its back in garrison and 20 miles away from me. I’m writing by candlelight and boy if Mary Margaret Criswell were only here would it be romantic? Its getting cold in this tent and the candle isn’t keeping me very warm. Try it sometime you’l soon find out.

Happy New Year to all and to all a good night.

Love,
Eddie Paul

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Who knows? Maybe Mary Margaret Criswell was singing this lovely 1943 song.

Letters 20 and 21 A/B

Letter # 20

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked December 13, 1943

Saturday, 1943

Dear Mom,

Today we had our regular big inspection and they say we flunked it miserably. It was quite a disappointment to me, not that I spent all last night cleaning & washing but because I wanted to get into town to get the proofs for the pictures I had taken last week. I had hoped to have the pictures home just before Christmas but guess its out of the question now. Hope you won’t mind waiting a week or two after Christmas. The picture will arrive sometime I’m quite confident.

Well, I’m on the 6th week of basic now, almost half way there. Last week was tough as the dickens but I’m resigned to my fate at last. My hat should have arrived by now, it wasn’t hurt crushed in the mail was it? its insured if it was. Today is Sunday and I just finished my laundry, even made 50 cents by washing another fellows field jacket This morning we had another rifle inspection and somehow or other we passed. Could go into town now but everything is closed anyhow. Did a little writing this afternoon. Wrote a brief account of army life and sending it to Mulholland. Perhaps she’l have it published in the school paper.

Got Christmas cards from Connie & Lil, Mrs. Hasselbeck “Doc’s” aunt Jane Stumych, & the college. Also got some smokes from the News & a book on phychology from school. The Sophomore class sent some stationary so I’m pretty well set.

Next week I’ll have to be right on the ball as we’re learning how to fire the machine gun, mortar & rifle. If I can get this down pat the rest of basic will be a snap. Did I tell you there is a pink eye epidemic down here & we have to take drops in the eye for it. I haven’t had it so ar. Think I’m immune anyhow.

You asked what I’d like for Christmas well a nice box of stuff would be appreciated very much. Please include in box set of watercolours & paper. You can send the set I have & don’t forget the brushes, think there’s about three. I figure I might just as well let things go until I get to college. Want to get a couple pairs of civilian shoes, dress belt, & also want to have my clothes tailored. That’s where any extra money will come in handy. I intend to send pictures to Grandma, Nan, Aunt Peg, Aunt Flo, Bette & of course home. I’ll have one left over perhaps Peggy Lou would like it.

That idea about Grandma would be swell. Hope she agrees to it. Well, I hope everyone is feeling well and still taking good care of my room.

Lots of love to all
Little Ed

P.S. Think I’ll try to call early Christmas morn around 8 or 9 o’clock, okay?

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Letter # 21A

Private E.P. Cowley Jr. 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked December 19, 1943

Dear family,

Received your Christmas box yesterday and it was swell. I’m going to hang up the stocking Christmas eve just like old times. The fellas took care of the cookies & fudge as soon as I opened the box. That’s the way everything goes around here. I hid the candy bars & gum (how did you ever get it?) & also the fruit cake. I can take care of those all by myself, I hope. Enjoyed reading the So. Buffalo news & the funnies. Ann & Tip sent a very nice box which we had a swell time with. You’d be surprised to see how fast food goes with 20 starving soldiers grabbing from all angles.

I saw my proofs the other night can’t say there too good but guess they’ll be all right. Rather confused as to when I’ll be able to send the picture. We go out on Bivouacs either Christmas or the day after. The pictures won’t be done until Christmas eve & I don’t think I’ll be able to get in to town & I’ll be on in the field for 2 weeks after that. Whatever happens you’ll get the pictures as soon as possible so please forgive me for not getting it home in time for Christmas.

Hope your having a tree this year even if its just a little one it would do fine. I’ll be thinking of home more than usual Christmas day and know it will be just like always. Will try my hardest to get that call thru. It usually takes about 6 hours or so, I’ll get an early start and perhaps you’ll get the call either Christmas morning or afternoon. Hope that’s all right with you. Received Christmas cards from Aunt Peg, Nan & Pap, Connie & Lil, Ann Clancy. Be sure & thank them all for me. I won’t have time to thank them myself but it I think it was swell they remembered me, especially Connie & Lil. Was quite surprised to hear from them.

Received Peggys letters and am quite highly honored to be the one to design their clubs insignia. I’ll do it very soon, know their anxious to get their sweaters if their anything like the Dragons were.

Well I’ve got a lot of writing to do and as usual not much time to do it in so I’ll close with a big “Merry Christmas” and hope that I will talk to you Saturday.

Love to all,
Eddie Jr.

P.S. The emblem on the hat is just the regular U.S. army insignia. Don’t know just what those things stand for that you spoke about. Glad you like it but sorry it too small for Dad ha!ha!
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Letter # 21B

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

Miss Peggy Cowley
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked December 24, 1943

Dear Peggy,

Just a little note from your soldier brother. How is everything down at Parson & Judds these days? Hows school & a lot more hows? Guess your doing all right by your average. Keep it up high, have a good time & you’ll soon be a classmate of mine up at state. Hope so!

I’m enclosing an A.S.T.P. patch. It’s the insignia of my outfit. When & if I get to college that’s what I’ll wear. It should look pretty nice on one of your sport jackets or something. You know better than I do about things like that.

I’ve been working on that design for your club I’m not sure just what you wanted. Think they would have something like that already made at the store. It would be a better idea to buy it like that. I’d imagine it would cost quite a bit to have a drawing reproduced. I’ve got one made but I’d have to do a color scheme & things like that. If you still want me to do it write & let me know.

Be good and don’t study too hard, haha

Your best boy friend,
Eddie
-------------------------------------------------
Along with Big Band and Swing, the big musical event was OKLAHOMA on Broadway. You Tube didn't have the original by Alfred Drake, so here is a wonderful concert version with Hugh Jackman as Curlie.

Letters 18 & 19

Letter # 18

Pvt. E.P. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.

Postmarked December 8, 1943

Tuesday Morn,

Dear Mom,

We have a little free time this morning so I’ll try to write a letter. Last night we were on a tactical reconnaissance problem in the woods. It was raining terrificly and the ground was cold and very, very damp. Our objective was to make our way thru 3 miles of heavily wooded area & swamp to 8th Division road. Between the starting point & the objective there was about 300 enemy troop armed with flares, torpedoes, rifles & machine guns. It was really brutal carrying the full field pack & rifle thru all that. Whenever we are fired upon we have to stretch out on the ground as low & noiseless as possible. I lost my patrol the 1st time we encountered the enemy which was about 200 yds from the beginning. Picked my way all alone for the remainder if the 3 miles. The compass was with the patrol & I had to move by the moon. Got thru all right and am still living so I guess everythings okay. We go on a long march today so I’ll have to start polishing again.

You should have got my hat by now, how do you like it? What does Peggy think of it? Does it fit Dad? Have to get my blood tested and typed now so I’ll have to close soon. I was picked up by the M.P.s with Dave Sunday afternoon. We were walking over to the service club & stepped on a Highway which we shouldn’t have. Why I don’t know. They even picked up a dog that ran out onto the Highway. Boy those MPs are really lousy. Well, I’ll write again soon.

Love to all
Eddie
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Letter # 19

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked December 9, 1943

Dear Mom,

Sorry I haven’t written very much lately but you know how time is in the army, very scarce. We’re talking about the Irish now & Dugan, Doyle, & I are defending the green with our lives.

Came thru all that rain & mud the other day in pretty fair shape. Kinda thought I might get a bad cold but I’m darn glad I didn’t and know you will be too,

Haven’t time to say much more as lights are just about out. We’ve had an awful lot of running, exercise, obstacle course, & hand to hand combat. Took care of some Englishman who didn’t care for the Irish today (with my elbows of course, guess he’l pull thru though)

How’s everything in So. Buffalo these days? Does Miss McDade miss me very much? This battle of the Irish is reaching riot stage. I’ll have to reach for my bayonet any minute now. How is Uncle Lou coming with that CDD? Hope he gets it, know he’d be a lot better off.

I’ll let you know the few things I want for Christmas. If any of the family want ask you what I would want tell them to send a little money I’ll need it for some dress shoes, belt & other things I’ll need soon. That’s just in case they ask of course.

Lots of love to all, Eddie or 42025054-381423-143977-30

________________

The song that meant the most to every soldier in 1943
"I'll Be Home For Christmas"

Letters 16 & 17

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

Miss Peggy Cowley
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked December 2, 1943

Dear Peggy,


Very pleased to hear from you and also very surprised. Glad to hear you liked the banner, kinda thought you would. Maybe I’ll send you some others from different camps. Thanks a lot for reassuring me of the excellent care Mother is taking of my room.

Your sorority “uniforms” sound pretty good and I’ll bet they’re gonna look hep. Your choice of colours is dandy and when I get home you better watch that sweater.

Peggy, I have to go to “chow” so I’ll finish the letter later. Well, I’m back from chow and might have a few minutes. As soon as the whistle blows I have to jump into all my equipment and go out to “Hells half acres” There we crawl on our bellies with out noses in the dirt for 3 hours. Wouldn’t you like to see me do that?

I think it was yesterday that I wrote to George Clancy. Ann will probably run up and grab the letter and tell you all about it in her next letter. Don’t understand what you mean by saying your “keeping up the family tradition” by getting 100 in Latin. You know I never had any “tradition” along that line. Keep up the good work and if your good enough you might be able to get into Buffalo State.

I lost Betty McKerrows address so if she wants me to write to her give her my address and she can write and I’ll answer her.

Well Peggy, I have to get this letter in the mail before the whistle so take it easy on all those high school boys and I’ll see you in a few months.


Love from,
Big brother

Letter # 17

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The “Cowleys”
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked December 4, 1943

Saturday, 1943

Dear family,

Just finished inspection, got a gig for not having the lock on my footlocker at the correct angle. What a life, clean rifle & bayonet & shoes till I’m blue in the face & then draw a gig for some stupid thing like that. I don’t complain anymore though, just take things as they come. That’s the best way to get along.

Yesterday we wound up bayonet training and as usual we were dead. as usual. Take it form me there’s nothing more tiresome that bayonet drill, maybe Dad had some of it in his War. It’s a great assult weapon and it gives me a lot more confidence to know I can handle it fairly well, just in case I ever see action.

In an hour or so we’re having a Battalion parade with a band, and a reviewing stand and all the trimmings. Hope it comes out okay. Dave, Harry & I are going to meet John Woodman in town tonight. It’s the only time in the week we can take it easy and relax.

I feel pretty good these days and haven’t been sick at all so don’t even suggest it. Am pretty relieved now that the 4 toughest weeks of basic are behind me. It should be clear sailing thru the rest of basic withstanding slight mishaps.

Well chow is just about due so I’ll close for awhile.

Love to all,
Eddie Jr.

P.S.

I wrote to Nan & Aunt Peggy last week. Will write to Aileen & Tom this week. Received a card of enrollment from St. Thomas, want to thank them.

1943 Hit Parade Continue
Shoo Shoo Baby - Ella Mae Morse

Letter 15

Fort Benning WW II Training Exercise

Pvt. Edward Cowley Jr. 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo, N.Y.
Zone 20

Nov 24th & 25th
26th & now 27th

Dear folks,

Don’t know how much time I have to write as I’m waiting to be called out for afternoon play. Its been terrific lately. Obstacle courses, attack courses. There goes the whistle, have to go.

Here I’m am back again today. Its kinda tough when it takes two days to write a short letter. Started this yesterday afternoon and right away was called out and had to drill & work till 6 o’clock. When we came back for dinner they told us we had to go out on a night march at 6:40. We walked from 6:40 to 11 o’clock and lights are out at 11, so we really don’t have too much time.

Today is Thanksgiving & naturally I’ve got K.P. Probably won’t get it again till Christmas. How’s everything at home? Mom? Dad? Peggy? Hope your all feeling well. I’m getting tough as a rock from all this exercise. Can see now why Lou couldn’t take the physical training. He’s got plenty of what it takes to go as far as he did. I take my helmet off to Lou.

You would appreciate the metamorphosis that has taken my character by storm. Perfectly disciplined and bloodthirsty as the rest of the commandos. Excuse me I just was chosen to clean the latrine. Am returning to my letter about after 1 hour of cleaning the latrine & I just took my last tetanus shot. Here I go again, nuts!

Well, today is Saturday and we’ve just been dismissed until tomorrow night. Tonight Dave, Harry and I are going into a nice place which we found in town. They have swell food and the place is really clean. Almost everyone there is an officer so I’m in the best of company. Guess it’s the only decent restaurant in town. We are coming back to camp tonight so we will be able to do our work & stuff tomorrow.

I’m glad to hear Grandma liked the letter I sent. Wish she’d get rid of that big house. Imagine she will soon. Sorry I couldn’t get a better color for your pillow case but I couldn’t find any others with a suitable verse. Maybe it will blend with the couch.

Well 3 weeks of basic training are over, only 10 more to go. The first 3 are the toughest I hear so maybe it won’t be as tough from here in. The work itself is perhaps going to get tougher but we’re pretty used to it and have more confidence now. We didn’t get a furlough after basic but we will get a 7 day furlough between terms once we get to school. By that I figure I should be home around my birthday or just a little before. Of course that’s figuring on the basis that I’m going right thru basic without any mishaps. Any minor injury which would keep us out of the field for a week or more would set us back a month or two & necessitate our moving to another Regiment. Hope I can stay fit and come out on time.

Next week is payday and I’m planning to buy a service hat they aren’t allowed on the post so I will send it home and you can send it to me when I get to school. I’m buying it now for a special reason so I’m not just throwing away my money just in case your wondering. Your last letter was swell and made me think of home an awful lot. I think I read it a dozen times.

That was some ball game last week wasn’t it Dad? You know which one I mean. Guess there going to be on top after all. Tell Peggy I’ll try & find time to drop a line to her friend Betty McK. By the time I get out she’ll probably be old enough for me.

Love to all, Eddie Jr.

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1943 - Jukebox Saturday Night, Glenn Miller

Letter 14

Pvt. E. P. Cowley 42025054
Seventh Company
Fifth Training Regiment, A.S.T.P.
Fort Benning, Georgia

Mr. E.P. Cowley
35 Woodside Avenue
Buffalo, N.Y.

Postmarked November 19, 1943

Dear Dad

Mother just told me the news about Ann. It was a terrible shock to me and I know it must have hit the entire family pretty hard. In her letter mother said it was really the best and most merciful thing that could have happened and saved Ann unbearable suffering and pain. You’l take it well dad, I know you will. Don’t let your health go again. You owe it to mother and Peggy and your soldier boy son. We’re all counting on you and someday soon I want to return to the happiest home in the world, which I was forced to leave behind me.

Grandma worries me, I hope everything will be arranged among the Cowleys so that she will always be as well provided for as she always have has been. Dad, I’m a man now and I’m beginning to think and want very much to act as a man would. Man to man you’ll keep the home fires burning for us like you have for many years now won’t you. Take the best care of yourself and I know you’ll make everything as easy as you can for your mother. I wish there was more I could do to help things at home but when I come back we’ll know our home will be the safest and the very best there is. If there is anything I can do at anytime to make Grandma feel better just let me know and I’ll be honored to be able to help.

Your son,

Eddie Jr.

Letter 13

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
7th Co. 5th Regt ASTP
Ft Benning Ga

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave
Buffalo N.Y.
Zone 20

Sunday morn
Nov 14, 1942

Dear Folks,

At last I got my 1st pass. I’m writing, as you probably noticed from the U.S.O. As far as I’m concerned the USO is a very good organization. We (Dave Coulter, Harry Cook and I) came into town yesterday about 5 o’clock. We bought a few things to send home and a new garrison cap, which is ultra snappy. Then we got ourselves a very good meal and which tasted so different from army food. Sleeping is quite a problem in Columbus Ga. But we went to the USO there and they sent us to Alabama, which is just across the Muscogee.

The towns, Phoenix city and Columbus, are miserable but the USO’s are fine. We paid 35 cents last night for a cot, (clean sheets and blanket) which was set up in the auditorium for us. When we got up they furnished soap and towels for a shower and then fed us coffee and doughnuts. Stationary is provided in quantities for all soldiers.

Enough about the USO, I think you should know more about the filthy towns. All you have ever heard about the South is true, except that I haven't run across any of the “Damn Yankee” type as yet. The bars are all lousy, you never saw such dirt in your life. We wanted to get a couple glasses of beer and we had to walk for 2 hours before finding a half way decent place. The best saloon down here can’t compare to the poorest in Buffalo. The girls aren’t just right either so we avoided them completely, I’ll be very much pleased to get back north to school, I hope.

Well, our 1st week of basic is completed, only 12 more to go. It was quite a week. We worked like slaves constantly and I never learned so much in such a short time. We had instruction on; the disasemblege and assemblage of the M1 (garand rifle); military courtesy and sanitation, both on post and in the field; interior guard duty, incidentally I’m on guard duty tomorrow night. Hope something exciting happens so I can get a commission. We drilled and drilled &and then drilled some more. According to the corporal I’m the slowest, dumbest, most awkward soldier in the army, of course he flatters everyone with those fragrant terms. We went on 2 short marches with full field equipment and pitched our tents up in the woods. Also we learned how to handle the rifle in the strict military fashion. I think I’m improving the art but its slow progress as I still keep knocking my helmet off. Exercises for an hour or more every morning, once we were ordered by the lieutenant to play football so that was the 1st command I enjoyed.

Thanks a million for all the things you sent. Everything will come in very handy, especially those hankies. I’ve 12 pr. of socks now, but if anyone wants to send more? I won’t feel put out. Those khaki brown socks will be swell when I get away from Benning and back to a soft life at school. As soon as the polish arrived I painted my buttons. Everything's swell and I’m pretty well set for awhile.
As soon as the ASTP paper comes thru I’ll start writing to all the family. I’ve got 18 letters to answer from last week.

Well, thanks again, for everything, I have to make sure I get to church. Hope you like the things I sent. Stay healthy Keep writing and cleaning my bedroom and I’ll be home before you know it.

Love to all
Eddie Jr.

P.S.

How about Lou, whats his address? I never thought he’d marry. How does grandma feel about it?

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And from the 1943 Hit Parade
"You'll Never Know" - Dick Haymes

Letter #12

Pvt. E. Cowley 42025054
7th Co. 5th Regt. ASTP
Fort Benning, Georgia

The Cowleys
35 Woodside Ave.
Buffalo N.Y.
Zone 20

Postmarked November 8, 1943

Dear Folks,

I’m in the middle of a detailed inspection, the lieutenants have just gone thru our barracks and we’re waiting for the majors and colonels. Everything has to be in G.I. order. There can’t be dust on anything at all, from the tip of our shoes to the top of the rafters. We’ve been shining things and cleaning since retreat last night. I think we’ve got the best looking and neatest hut in the Company. I printed the numbers on the gun rack and mess kit rack. It looks pretty snappy and the sarge thought it was “dandy”.

You’ll be pleased to know I passed all the exams and I’m sure going to college at last. The kid I go around with down here, Dave Coulter from Williamsville, flunked out on the 5th exam. He’s trying to get in the air corps. The air corps has priorities on A.S.T.P. candidates and anyone that washes out of this automatically goes into the air corps, providing he can pass the physical, which I can’t. The A.S.T.P. is the highest rated division of the army. We’re rated above Officers Training, air corps, and everything else.

I’m sending home my insurance & war bonds at last. Also my admission to A.S.T.P. for you to put in my book.

Received a swell letter from Miss Mulholland, my English Teacher at state. She gave me all the dope about the school events and wants me to continue writing. It seems funny writing to one of my teachers when usually I try my hardest to avoid them.

I ordered 2 boxes of A.S.T.P. stationary and hope I get it very soon. Mother I think it would be a good idea if you would send me 5 more dollars as I have a million things to get before I’m settled. It would be swell if you would also send maybe 1 or 2 of our big bath towels white or blue preferred, 3 or 4 T shirts, and as many of my jockey shorts as there are around the house. I have to buy some more woolen socks down here, I’ve got plenty of the brown ones. When my money arrived, I already owed $2.50 and I bought a carton of smokes, large toothpaste, 2 face towels for display only, 3 bars of soap and some candy bars.

The day before yesterday I was on K.P. from 6 in the morn till 10 at night. K.P. is really all they claim and then some. We have all our equipment now and we’re ready to begin our basic Monday. Our Company’s gonna be tops in the outfit. At least we’re trying damn hard to make it so.

I’m back again after a lecture and posing for a photograph, of course the rest of the company muscled in on the picture. Remember when I said I wouldn’t write home for anything, guess I was quite mistaken but then I didn’t think V-12 meant anything at all. In fact I probably wouldn’t have mentioned it if they hadn’t called for it.

You asked what bivouac is, well, it is an abbreviated form of maneuvers as it only lasts 2 weeks. During those 2 weeks we live in the hills and sleep in our pup tents. Naturally we sleep right on the ground. During the day time we fire rifles, machine guns & mortars etc. besides all types of marching and tactical lessons. We have 2 bivouacs coming so I’ll tell you a lot more later.

Trying Army exams is quite different from the exams I’ve tried so many of in school. You know if you miss your out and out for good. There’s no excuses allowed and no second chances. It’s something like a life or death exam. When I took the last 3 I felt quite unprepared for them and wasn’t too sure of my chances of making the grade. My year at state didn’t help my math, physics & chemistry any but if I ever get a chance (which I should) to study, I’m going to know as much as I can hold when I began.

Well I’m going over and try to find room to take my compulsory daily shower. (and do I need it!) Would you call up Ray W. and give him my address. I wrote to him from Upton & told him to get my address from you. I’d like to know if his brother is down here. The camp is about 10 times the size of Buffalo in area so there isn’t much chance of running in to him. I could write and have him meet me someplace. Sounds kinda strange doesn’t it. Best of health to all the Cowleys and let me hear about that fudge soon.

Love to all
Eddie Jr.

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It really was a great year for music: Stormy Weather sung by Lena Horne