In war news at this time on 23rd November Metz in France was taken, and Strasbourg, in eastern France, was liberated by French troops. On the 24th the first B-29 originating from Tinian, in the Marianas, raided Tokyo.
:On this date also the USS Intrepid was hit by kamikazes for the third time and other American ships were heavily damaged. On the 25th the Japanese took Nanning in south China. On the 26th the war in Italy was at a stalemate, partly because of heavy rains. On this date also Heinrich Himmler ordered the crematoriums and gas chambers of Auschwitz II-Birkenau dismantled and blown up.
As usual
26th November 1944
Darling Janie,
It’s vey late and I don’t know if I’ll be able to finish tonight. I’ve been out all day for the last three days and as a result am very tired but here goes.
Yesterday I received a tin of sweets from the firm who are sending Anthony a parcel and if it’s any indication he should enjoy his.
Well, I’ve now done three years and five months and a pal of mine who is high up says I stand a good chance of coming home next summer. I personally feel that this depends mainly on if the European war ends before Christmas. Anyway it’s a very pleasant feeling. Also as a matter of interest a laddie who has to do with these affairs frequently comes around for a drink so I’m not merely a number, though of course he couldn’t favour me in any way.
And now, young lady, how are you feeling? You are an extremely naughty girl straining yourself. I’d far rather the garden were all weeds than you do any straining. Anyway I’m quite sure you didn’t train your heart, they simply don’t strain easily, muscles maybe, anyhow, take care, not much use my taking care of myself if you don’t.
The colonel said to me the other day “I didn’t know you were married Askew.”
“Yes,” I said, “And I have a boy aged five.” He also has a son aged four who he has never seen. He reckoned I should make use of this month’s leave at home but I said “Not likely.” I hear that the British press is making a fuss of the scheme. The men’s reactions here immediately, “No fear, let’s get our overseas service over and dome with and get home for good.” As I said I don’t like the idea as I feel it is likely to interfere with the repatriation for those who have done a long spell overseas. It may be a sop for the British public but for the average chap out here useless, the attitude being, if we’ve got to stay a little longer out here OK, only get us home as soon as you can.
Oh, Darling, it won’t be long now. Keep your chin up and look forward to those kisses of mine.
All my love sweetheart and to our little boy.
God bless you both and I remain your very own,
Johnnie xxxxx
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