France

October 22, 1944

Dear Mom,

The mail is a little confused these days. Your letter of October 5 came yesterday while your letter of October 11 arrived two days ago. Several days ago I had a letter from Grace and John both. Many thanks for all.

We're getting a brief respite again, back from the mud I wrote you about.

I had my first cold of the season a short time back but it's gone now and, I hope, for good.

We were awarded our Combat Infantryman's Badges recently. You've seen the picture of them. Background to the rifle is infantry blue color. For the men it means a $10 raise in pay. For the officers it means simply the distinction. But all of us consider it our highest award, above any other medal, for it is limited to front line fighting troops. I mailed you the Silver Star Medal the other day, minus the ribbon which we are required to wear, although it seem a little ridiculous on combat uniform. My two ribbons and Combat Infantryman's Badge make quite a colorful splash on olive drab. Of course, I'm supposed to be wearing two other ribbons which I don't have: the American Defense Ribbon, a nonsensical affair for those in service before Pearl Harbor, and the European Theatre of Operations ribbon with a Bronze Star to show participation in the Battle of France. I'm still zealously avoiding the Purple Heart!

I read Mrs. Weymouth's letter with a good deal of interest. I've often wondered how she could manage that huge place alone. Have Marnie pay the freight charges from my account and you should include something extra for her kindness in storing the things so long. After a struggle, I managed to get her to keep five dollars several years ago but she's had nothing since. What is her address now so I can write to her?

While I think about it, did I ever get a refund on my Income Tax?

We had our turn at the radio last night and heard Bing Crosby and Judy Garland on Command Performance. It was a hilarious program with a wonderful satire on Lucky Strikes Hit Parade, commercials and all. Featured songs were the "All Time Flop Parade" and they really were funny. As I write now the same program is being re-broadcast so I'm going to take time out to listen.

I'm enclosing a reproduction of a news clipping from a United States paper which might be of interest.

Love,

Bob