Jan. 6, 1944:

Jan. 13, 1944:

Here’s another letter from PFC Derrill STIPP, who is now in Italy. He thanks us for the cigarettes, but he really means this part for the Chamber of Commerce and those who donated for this cause. He says: I am going to write you a letter. I have thanked you for the paper which I get in bunches every once in awhile. Well, I read Major BROOM’s letter. Sure was good. Here is some of my experiences. When we landed in Africa, we started sleeping on the ground and the same in Sicily and we are sleeping in the ground now. You know the holes we dig. We have been in action several times, should have some planes to our credit. They have strafed us some with ME109. We managed to chase them off. The artillery shells of both sides have been going over our heads. We have had wet feet a lot and I have had the rheumatism a lot. A good bed sure would help. Haven’t saw one after we left the States. There is a lot more, but no room, not very good at spelling. Thanks again for the cigarettes and paper.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Floyd EAGAN, who is now watching the hula girls. He says: I want to write a few lines to let you know where I am, but I can’t say anything about what I am doing. I am still in the Hawaiian Islands, but on a different island now. They are beautiful, but they are not what you folks back there think they are, and I wouldn’t take all that I have seen here to be back in Kinmundy, but I wouldn’t take anything for what I have seen. I just came back from mail call and I sure did good tonight. I got four letters and that sure helps. The letters from the boys in the service is the first thing I look for. I would like to thank all the neighbors and friends for the beautiful greeting cards which I received for Christmas.

- Here’s another one from Cpl. John JEZEK, who is now out of the hospital. He says: As I came back from the hospital yesterday, at least I can write and tell you my different address, as I have some spare time and you have been so nice to the boys and I in the service with our good old home town paper. Nothing like it when you get thousands of miles away from home. Mr. VALLOW I wish you would thank the Chamber of Commerce for their carton of cigs as they’re not always so plentiful, and all my friends that took the trouble to send me packages and cards. Thanks again Mr. VALLOW. Regards to everyone.

- Here’s another one from Cpl. Louie SOUTIER, who is still in merry old England. He says: Will drop you a letter to let you know I have changed my APO. No. now because I sure want to get my paper. I got three of them the other day. I get most of my mail in a bunch. Sure enjoy getting them as I like to read the letters the other boys write. Well I have seen a lot of country since I have been over here and a lot of the U.S.A., but I still like Illinois the best. We sure get plenty of rain here, guess it rains here about all the time. Well it will soon be another year gone. Sure hope the war gets over by next year so everyone can get home. Well guess I will sign off wishing you a Happy New Year.

- Here’s one from Cpl. John McCULLEY, who would much rather see the belles of Kinmundy than the hula dancers of Hawaii. He says: I made a New Year’s resolution to write you a letter and thank you for the paper that I have been receiving. I meant to write sooner but never got around to it. The last issue I received was Nov. 25. I sure do enjoy getting the paper very much. It is like getting a letter from mother and dad. I sure do enjoy Maj. BROOM’s letters a lot. He was telling in his last letter about how they traveled in North Africa and how rough the railroads were. I still say that is a lot better than walking like we are having to do. I quite agree with Harvey JOHNSTON and Howard HELM about the Islands not being what you people back home think they are. For the life of me I can’t see why anyone would come over here on a honeymoon or vacation. You mentioned in the last paper about me being over here somewhere making it a little hot for the Japs. Well so far we haven’t done much but expect to in the near future. J.N. did you leave plenty of quail for seed next year? I hope so for I am in hopes that next hunting season we are all back home. We see quite a few pheasants here but we are not allowed to shoot any of them. Well I guess this is about enough for this time so I will begin to close. I am looking forward to a nice boat ride back to the States and when I get back to Kinmundy, I am staying right there. Of all the places I have been in the last 3 years while I have been in the Army, Kinmundy has them all beat a long ways. As the natives say, "Aloha".

- Mrs. Maria MAHON WEST, 84, wife of the late George W. WEST of Houston, Texas, died Jan. 5. She was born and reared in Kinmundy, later with her husband moved to Kansas, but for the past 22 years has made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Georgiana ALLEN of Houston. The son, Frank G. WEST, died in 1938. She is survived by the daughter; a brother, George B. MAHON of Green Mountain, Colo; 3 granddaughters, Mrs. Pat H. BEEVENS and Miss Patricia WEST, both of Houston, and Mrs. Thomas H. HALE of Baytown, Texas.

- Mrs. Merle KLINE, south of town, has received word of the death of her brother, Pvt. Wm. R. CARTER, 24, son of Mr. and Mrs. John CARTER of Johnston City, Ill. Pvt. CARTER was wounded Dec. 8 in Italy and died the same day according to the telegrams received here by his parents. He has been in the Army since March 24, 1941, and overseas for 8 months, and in Italy for 3 months. Pvt. CARTER was a anti-aircraft gunner in the armored division of the field artillery.

- Mr. Albert HAMPSTEN received a telegram from the War Dept. on Jan. 8 stating that his son, Pvt. Louis Ervin, had been wounded in action. Pvt. HAMPSTEN is in the Marines and this is the second time he has been wounded, the first time being in early Sept. 1942. Pvt. HAMPSTEN is 19 years of age and has been in the service for more than 2 years. He is in the Southwest Pacific. The message did not state the nature of his wound. (A picture of Pvt. HAMPSTEN was included.)

- Clifton Brant LEMAY, Kenneth Dean SMITH, and Ira Garrett MERRITT have received their notice from the local Selective Board to report for induction.

- Mrs. O.E. GARRETT entered the Salem Hospital Saturday and underwent an operation Tuesday morning for a hernia.

- Mrs. J.H. BACKENSTO and daughter, Shirley, of Hartford, spent the first of this week here with her mother, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS and son, Lt. Raymond ATKINS.

- Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD has received word that her son, Daniel A. has been promoted from Sergeant to Staff Sergeant.

- We have received 2 more greetings this week. One is from James HAMMER, U.S.N., who is sailing the 7 seas on the U.S.S. Heron. It was dated Dec. 17 and arrived here last week via V-Mail. Thanks Red for remembering us.

- The other one is from PFC Dale WRIGHT, who is also seeing the sights of merry old England. His card was not dated, so I don’t know when it was sent. Thanks Dale, come again.

- And I might convey the information to Sgt. Beryl DISS that I believe his letter did some good because the flag is now floating on the square. It has been quite a task to get someone to take responsibility of putting it up and taking it down. But finally at the last meeting of the City Council, they put this on the shoulders of the Chief of Police. So everything is honkey-dorey now.

- East Zion: Mrs. Maude JONES died Sunday at her home. She had been in poor health and confined to her bed for the past 2 weeks. She leaves her husband, 2 sons, Robert at home, and Russell of Wilmington. Services were held at Zion Church.

- Mrs. Chas ROBB of Decatur spent this week here with her sister, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS.

- Green Ridge: Mrs. LOWMAN of Salem is finishing the term of school at Greenridge, which Mrs. Rada CALDWELL had to give up on account of her health.

- Prairie Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Sam REICHERT attended the funeral of Herman GERHARDT at St. John’s Evangical Church Monday.

- Swift School: Virgil LIVESAY and family spent Sunday with Clyde GARRETT and family.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Leland BRASEL spent Sunday in Kinmundy with Mrs. Lizzie ATKINS and Lt. Raymond ATKINS.

- Swift School: Mrs. Frank JONES and Mrs. James JONES and son, Jimmie, spent Monday afternoon with Mrs. Clyde BASSETT.

- Pleasant Grove: Mr. and Mrs. Jack BARKSDALE attended the funeral of his grandfather, Mr. BANDELOW at the Baptist Church in Iuka Wednesday.

- Pleasant Grove: Lester BASOM of the armed forces is spending a furlough here with his wife and other relatives.

Jan. 20, 1944:

- Our community was very much shocked last Thursday afternoon when the news was spread that Pleasant ROBNETT was seriously ill, having just suffered a stroke of paralysis. Reports from his bedside were constantly given out to the effect that he was showing no improvement. Another shock was received Sunday morning when the news was given out that he passed away. It just couldn’t seem possible. Services were held Tuesday in the High School Gymnasium with interment in Evergreen Cemetery. As a mark of respect, the schools were dismissed at noon and all business places were closed from noon until after the funeral. Mr. ROBNETT entered the business world in Kinmundy in 1913 by erecting a small garage and has been in business ever since with the exception the time he took out for the service of his country in World War I. He was a mechanical genius. If anyone wanted a piece of machinery repaired or made, they went to Pleasant. He erected an ice plant in 1922 making practically all of the workings. This business has grown and he has enlarged the capacity of the plant several different times. Pleasant had not been in good health for sometime, but no one realized how serious his condition was. Pleasant F. ROBNETT, son of Noah J. and Lillie CHALFANT ROBNETT, was born near Kinmundy on Sept. 15, 1891, and died Jan. 16, 1944. He was well known for his mechanical ability having operated the Star Garage here since March 1913. On June 17, 1918, he was inducted into the Army in World War I to serve his country as a mechanic. After returning from the Army, he erected a building and began the operation for an ice plant for this city and the surrounding community. Later he also became engaged in the bulk oil business. When the hard road was completed thru this city, he erected a modern filling station known as the White Star Super Service Station. On June 23, 1925 he married Miss Lura WILLIAMS, and they 5 children. He leaves his wife; 2 daughters, Zola and Helen; 3 sons, Pleasant Jr., Jimmy and Quinten; an aunt, Miss Anna CHALFANT. A list of relatives and friends attending from out-of town was included.

- Tennessee TUCKER WHITE was born Aug. 13, 1874 in Fayette Co., Ill., and died at the home of her daughter on Jan. 16, 1944. She was the daughter of Jones and Mary TUCKER. At an early age she joined the Baptist Church. On Sept. 18, 1894, in the home of her parents, she married Arthur WHITE. She resided south of Kinmundy practically all of her life with the exception of 1 year in which she lived in Iuka. She had the misfortune of breaking her hip on Nov. 17, 1943. Afer being confined to Salem Hospital, she was moved to the home of her daughter. She leaves 1 son, Stanley WHITE now serving in the armed forces in the Hawaiian Islands; 1 daughter, Mrs. Nellie BLAIR, north of Kinmundy; her husband; 2 grandchildren, Agnes HAYES and Gerald WHITE; 1 great-grandchild, Jimmie Louis HAYES; 1 sister, Martha WANTLAND, and 4 brothers, John TUCKER of California; Wade TUCKER of Arrowsmith, Ill.; Frank TUCKER and Casey TUCKER of St. Louis, Mo. Services were held from Pleasant Grove Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Mr. J.D. BARBEE of our city, entered Barnes Hospital in St. Louis last Thursday for cancer of the mouth.

- Mrs. Mary MAYER, who has been an invalid for several years due to a broken hip, entered Barnes Hospital in St. Louis on Dec. 23 and underwent a very serious bone operation.

- Robert A. MARTIN, son of James and Ella NOY MARTIN, was born in Gilman, Ill. on June 15, 1898, and died at Centralia on Jan.15, 1944. He was married to Leona O’DELL of Kinmundy on May 19, 1923 at Champaign, Ill. He had lived in Champaign and Urbana since Aug. 1922, when he became an Illinois Central Brakeman. He was promoted to conductor in Oct. 1942. He was preceded in death by his mother and 2 sons, Robert and Billy, who died in infancy. He leaves his wife; a son, Carol, 15; and a daughter Marilyn, 12; his father, James A. MARTIN; and 2 sisters, Mrs. Mabel BACH of Champaign and Mrs. Blanche LIETZ of Bradley, Ill. Services were held from Owens Funeral Home.

- Here’s a letter from Pvt. Pug JENKINS, who almost sent his letter here by getting a furlough. He says: Well thought I would drop you another line as I have a new address. I sure like to read the letters from the other boys that are overseas, because I think I will be there soon myself. But I can’t say when, because it is a military secret. Well I came to this camp last Monday and I would rather be back in the armored division where I used to hear the tanks roll, but they sent me here, so there isn’t a lot I can do about it. Robert GRAY’s article was very interesting, because I was down in Tennessee on maneuvers 3 months. Well, Mr. VALLOW, thanks again for the paper and keep up the good work. It makes everyone feel like being home and I hope it isn’t very long until we are. Well, I am saying "Thanks again for the paper.".

- Here’s one from Sgt. Raymond MOELLER, who wrote the letter on Christmas Day in merry old England. He says: Well it has been quite some time since I have written to you and have come a long way cross. How is everybody back home by now? I am just as good as always and thinking very much on getting a little better as we have just finished a grand Christmas dinner and I know that you have heard that everything now-a-days is shipped across the pond. Well, by the looks of our dinner today that we had just everything and they possibly could have no more better than we had back in the States. Would like to write about our trip over here but all that I can say is that it was a grand voyage and am looking forward to just one more and that is the one that will take us back to America, then that will be my last one for sure. I think that I received the best Christmas present that one could expect to get as I got my first mail before Christmas and it included paper. The mail could not have come at any better time. The paper was Nov. 26 issue. So it was rather old but to me it was really new and I enjoyed it very much and as soon as I get to my new location I will send you my new address or have my folks give it to you. I had the opportunity to get out of this country a few days ago and it is a beautiful place as much as I have ever seen so far, and I was rather amazed to see the livestock that they have here and being rather interested in livestock they looked very good to me. I think they have some of the largest milk cows that I have ever seen. The people are somewhat different, but most of them are very friendly and easy to make friends with and that helps a lot. The young boys and girls are a little quiet for a few minutes then when they get started, they talk and keep on talking. I feel kind of sorry for them as they have gone through what I hope none of us will ever see or hear about in our country. They had a Christmas party for a lot of the youngsters here on this base and it sure did make a lot of them happy I remember one of them saying that it was not Santa as he has a cotton beard, but they sure did enjoy it and I think all the soldiers that took part in it enjoyed it as much as the little ones. I know that I sure enjoyed it as all the things they got came from the States. Well the 6th of January I will have been in the Army 2 years. That seems rather a long time but I do not know where I could have possibly got the experience that I have got in them 2 years anyplace or at any coast and it looks as if there are a lot more new ones ahead. Well I am out of news, if that is what a person can call it so until next time. I hope that every one is well and happy at home and I wish every one back home A Happy New Year.

- Here’s another from England from Cpl. T. Edward JEZEK, written on Dec. 30. He says: As I find time now to write, I want to thank you for your most welcome paper, The Kinmundy Express, for I cannot explain to you how I feel toward the paper. I always look forward to it twice a month. I’ve been in jolly old England for 4 months and I find it very comfortable for most of us Americans. It is very odd as we cannot find things as we were used to such as beer, it is warm, very little whiskey. Also in the line of eating. In every city, town and village there is a darkness. It has been that way every since the war begun. You should hear the odd names they give various things such as pictures, a string of wagons, etc. I also find the people are very different in parts of this Island, in language and in relation. Almost as our north and south. The negro over here is rated the same as a white man, of course, we don’t think much of that. Some day in the future, we tell our army career in happiness, especially the boys around Kinmundy. Again, I thank you for the paper.

- Here’s one from Cpl. Chas. GARRETT, written Jan. 2, in New Guinea. He says: Just finished reading the Kinmundy paper, so thought I would drop you a line to let you know that I sure appreciate getting it. Sometimes it takes quite awhile for it to reach me, but it is still news from home to me and I certainly enjoy reading it. I don’t stay in one place very long so I can’t expect to get it all the time. I have never seen anyone that I knew back there. Lawrence BASSETT and I were at the same place for awhile, but I was moved up before I had a chance to see him. Everyone back there seem to be doing a swell job of putting out supplies for the armed forces and I think that before long the Nips are going to wish they had never heard of Pearl Harbor. Thanks again for the paper and I hope that it won’t be too long before I see the old home town again.

- Here’s one from the Aleutians written on Jan. 3 from Sgt. Tiny ELLIS. He says: Just another one was mentioned within your column previously and wish to fill the request of my dear commentator. Your papers have come frequently thru terrain seldom heard of, but playing an interesting part in this war, but must say they are accomplishing great achievements toward keeping morale posted on local news of home affairs. So may I thank you for kind appreciation in sending vital information we have no other way of accumulating on local news. Publishing letters written by men on various fronts of the world explain many answers our mothers and fathers worry over that are not necessary. Nearly 2 years ago this continent was invaded by desperate fighting people called Nipponese, who could never get along with themselves much less peaceful people as we are. And thru our 2 great military leaders, Lt. Gen. Simon B. BUCKNER and Vice Admiral Thomas C. KINKAID, we eliminated the yellow rascals from the Aleutians and in which we duly credit forces that may of participated within it. Maybe it could have been done sooner with a higher cost of human lives, but I don’t think it would have been worthy in cause, so let us congratulate our leaders and it’s staff for completing the job it set out to do. Not quite 2 years ago I left the States for destination unknown, as to what we were to do, had little interest, only wanting to complete our mission and return home where our loved ones live, and yet we have not fulfilled our goal by defeating the enemies. I’ve seen men feed the fish several times by leaning over the rail or bow of a ship, but never have I seen men thrown off in the water to walk ashore with ice freezing on their clothing as soon as the air hit them (only in movies). Those are just a few incidents seen throughout my army life. The interior of Alaska is quite interesting with Eleuts and Eskimo people populating 3 quarters of it and really sports in hunting, trapping and mining is a popular event to us soldiers, for we’ve been softies so long it made us realize what we were fighting for. Delightful scenery can be obtained from a distance thru cars passing by a small highway leading into gorgeous mountains with streams of cold water seeping down crevices of snow capped mountains into a booklet of running fish called trout. Now drifting westward, I leave your imagination stress upon itself of hardships were may have suffered on a barren isolated spot within the Pacific ocean. Recreation facilities are wonderful compared to what I’ve read on various other front lines. We have had a few celebrities, such as Errol Flynn, Martha Q. Briscoll, Ruth Carroll and Jimmy Dodd. Also a representative from Washington, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, who played a vital part in World War I of the Air Corps. Movies are nothing but the latest pictures made such as: Coney Island, Sweet Rosie O’Grady, and many more I can’t recall just now. So if ever the war is over, just pack up your old gray bonnet and catch the next transport going to Tokyo for a vacation under Northern Lights of Alaska.

- Here’s one from James ELLIS way down in Florida. Say what is this? The JEZEK boys sure hit the jackpot this week by writing. Anyway here is what he says: As it has been over a year sine I have written to you here goes. I have a new address which I hope to report at the end if my paper holds out. I am 9 miles but of Tampa at the Mac Dill Field. This is a replacement training unit. We have Flying Fortresses only. The Chamber of Commerce has over rated Florida about 500 per cent. This beautiful sunshiny weather (when the sun shines) is so damp that it penetrates to the bone and makes me think of damp April weather in Kinmundy. I don’t mind telling you I’ll still take the snow and zero weather in preference to this. We are quartered in shacks discarded by General Lee in the Civil War as unfit for Confederate soldiers. The cracks in the floor and sides are so large a four week old pig would have no trouble getting into the building at all. My first night was spent beneath 3 blankets and my sheep skin flying suit and shoes still I woke up cold. The southern hospitality was forgotten long ago and the poor civilians pay as much for food as they do rent. Tell those people who do not know how to appreciate Kinmundy and it’s climate until it is to late - believe me, I know. I have a crew which I will have all the time now. They are scattered across the U.S., one from Michigan, Washington, D.C., California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma and North Dakota. I have one real American, a full blood Indian from a tribe in Oklahoma. My particular duty is that of a tail gunner in the famous Flying Fortress. On a trip the other day I was thinking of my kid brother, Vernon JEZEK, and all the other kids in Kinmundy on what a thrill this ride would be for them and what fun. It was only routine for me. It seems so funny to start out with your regular clothes on around plus a sheepskin flying suit, sheepskin overshoes, helmet and gloves. You are perspiring terribly but within an hour you are real cold and the weather is from 10 to 30 below zero. When you are only one mile and three fourths into the air you start using oxygen and the temperature is ten to 25 degrees above zero at 6 miles in the air, 30,000 feet the temperature is zero to 15 below, and at 38,000 feet (7 miles) the air is so thin you can’t talk. A fly can’t even fly, all he can do is crawl around on the plane, if he attempts to fly he falls. If your oxygen mask came off you would be dead in 2 minutes at this height. The tail of a Fortress has plenty of room. I can store plenty of ammunition and can moved freely. This is the easiest position to shoot. Our greatest danger is flak, which comes from anti-aircraft shells fired from the ground and explode and puncture your ship on the order of shrapnel. After cruising around for an hour or so at 20,000 feet many is the time I wish that I had a thermos bottle filled with hot coffee. After 30,000 feet occasionally one becomes affected with the "Bends". This is a nitrogen air bubble which lodges in one of your joints, causing severe pain, and you act just like a person with a severe case of rheumatism. Bubbles at this height are seven times their size at ground level. The way we avoid bends is starting using oxygen on the ground and continue on your way up. This eliminates the nitrogen from your body. Please tell everyone to keep writing the boys in the service even though they don’t hear. A boy overseas is permitted to write just 2 letters a week in most war zones. I understand they are mighty sad when no letters come for him. This applies in cases of men overseas. I am enclosing $1.00 which I want you to throw into a fund you have for the defraying of expenses for the newspaper sent to the boys. I haven’t received the paper or any other mail for 6 weeks but eventually it will catch up with me. To the people back home (for the sake of the service men) please forget the strikes and bittering for we all want to come home to stay as quick as we can. Help us all you can for we have no choice about anything.

- Lt. (jg) Carl E. and Mrs. PRUETT arrived Sunday and visited until Tuesday with Mr. and Mrs. W.S. PRUETT and friends. On Tuesday they departed for Gibson City for a few days visit with Mrs. PRUETT’s parents. Lt. PRUETT is enroute from Norfolk to Alma, Mich. where he will be stationed.

- Sgt. Dwight HANNA is here visiting with his father, Dr. HANNA and family.

- Mrs. Pauline WEST entered the Salem Memorial Hospital Sunday and on Monday submitted to an appendectomy.

- Kenneth E. JACKSON, A.R.M. 3 c graduated from Radio Ground School at Corpus Christi, Texas on Jan.1 with the highest score in the class.

- Word has been received of the death of Mr. Grover WOODS, a former resident of this city, which occurred in Chicago from pneumonia. Interment was made in Sandoval Cemetery.

- Omega: Glen SCHOOLEY of the U.S. Army is spending a 7 day furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ray SCHOOLEY. He is stationed in Nebraska.

- Mrs. Bertha ROBB returned to her home in Decatur Thursday after visiting from Sunday with her sister, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Ruben CRAIN received a letter from their son, Gene, who is somewhere in the Pacific, that he is able to be out on duty after an accident of a broken arm and pelvic bone.

- Meacham: Word was received that Phil SHORT is stationed in England now.

- Meacham: Woodrow JOHNSTON was in a hospital having undergone an operation for the removal of a kidney.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Ed HARRELL were in Salem Monday.

- Wilson School: S. Sgt. and Mrs. Victor MERCER of Olympia, Wash. arrived Thursday for a visit with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank KOLB, also his parents who reside near Salem.

- Wilson School: Our neighbor, Mrs. Art WHITE, died.

- S3 c Lyle SWIFT has returned to Great Lakes. He has completed his boot training and spent a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond SWIFT and sister, Miss Dorothy.

- Bert GARRETT is able to up around the house from his recent illness.

Jan. 27, 1944:

- Not to be outdone by the Navy, Pvt. George MEYER sends us a copy of the Christmas menu served the boys in Camp Chaffee, Ark. Here is the way it reads: Appetizers: Choice of Molotov Cocktail, hearts or grenades, and oysters on the half-track. Soups: Creme of Kiwi polish, and consomme foxhole. Entrees: Filet of Jap with TNT sauce, braised Nazis with rotten tomatoes, bad eggs any style, cooked goose ala Ribbentrop, boiled Gestapo sloppo en casserole, roast Norwegian quisling with applesauce and scrambled brains d’Hitler. Vegetables: Peas, armor piercing; G1 shoestring potatoes and beans, HE. Desserts: Tortoni Mussolini, Creme de Laval, Bazooka pudding, bombs-bombs, champagne (AWOL), topped off with fruits of victory.

- Here’s one from T-S Eldon COLCLASURE, who is doing radio work down in Florida. He says: I will write you again and tell you of my change of address. We arrived here Sunday 16th after 6 days and 6 nights on the trains. The trip had it’s good and bad points. The engineer was one of those fellows who was cut out to punch cattle. Three times a day and once a night he would test his breaks - breakfast, dinner, and supper. Then once at night was from 9:05 until we went to sleep. Florida is a beautiful state. McDill Field is a beautiful one. Just in case I forget, I would like to say a word about that deer, or rather to the fellows who saw it. When I used to go fishing or hunting alone, I saw many different kinds of animals rarely seen in those parts. But a camera might clear up the debate. If some of those fellows would take this advice I’ll be seeing a deer on the front page next Monday. So much for that. It’s getting near time now that I must sweep and scrub the aisle, so I had better close and get busy. Thanks a million for the paper. I enjoy it more than a few words can tell. I’ll furnish the address if you will furnish the paper. Mail is important. I don’t get too much. Incidentally if anyone would like to become a war correspondent I would like to hear from them. Keep up the good work Mr. VALLOW and luck to you through out the year.

- Here’s one from Bill BARBEE, S2 c, who is sailing the seven seas. He says: Just a few lines to thank you for the paper. I am getting it almost every week now and enjoy it very much, even the other boys read it and ask who is this and did you know them. They read the letters from some of the boys and laugh and say I wish I could write him a letter. I believe they would stop talking about being on maneuvers and how rugged is was. Maneuvers are just a small part of what most of them will probably go thru with before it is over, but let’s hope not. It is good to know what a soldier goes thru before he goes overseas. But as for sleeping on rocks. I believe they usually can find a smooth place to lay. My address has changed a little as you will see from the last one. I can’t write much as you would like to know, but maybe some day I can write more freely and give you the low down on things. Thanks again for the paper and tell everyone I said ‘hello’.

- Sarah Elizabeth WILKINSON SEE, daughter of Henry Clay and Harriett Ann WILKINSON, was born Sept. 5, 1861, and died at the home of her granddaughter, Mrs. Zelpha JONES on Jan. 21, 1944. She married Jolin Shull SEE on Oct. 10, 1883, who died on Sept. 12, 1923. They had 6 children: Paul, Mrs. Hazel MILLICAN, Edgar and John; 1 son, Oscar Clyde, and 1 daughter, Mary Eva, preceded their mother in death. She also leaves 18 grandchildren, 3 in the service: Ralph MILLICAN in England; Earl SEE in Pearl Harbor and See MILLICAN in Tennessee; and 17 great-grandchildren; 1 half-sister, Mrs. Margaret ALLEN of Parsons, Kansas, and 1 brother, W.T. WILKINSON, 85 years old, of Kinmundy. Early in life she became a member of the Methodist Church. She was injured by a fall a few weeks ago. She spent her entire life, 82 years, in Marion county and she and her husband lived and reared their family on a farm near Omega. Then in later years they moved to Kinmundy where she maintained a home. Services were held from the Methodist Church with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Alfred LEMAY, in company with his brother, Bill and son, Don, of Hillsboro, and his sister, Mrs. Ada GARNER and son, Henry GOFORTH, of Centralia, were in Indianapolis Monday and Tuesday attending the funeral of their eldest brother, Elviton LEMAY, 68, who died on Sunday. The deceased was a resident here at one time.

- Kenneth D. SMITH, son of Mr. and Mrs. Otis SMITH left Tuesday night for Chicago, where he was inducted into the Navy.

- The fire siren was sounded Saturday afternoon when a small blaze was discovered on the roof of the building occupied by Mr. and Mrs. J.E. WILLIAMS. But due to the efficient fire department the blaze was quickly extinguished with very little damage done.

- Mr. and Mrs. C.B. ROHRBOUGH and daughter, Ruth, Mr. E. WORMLEY and daughter, Katherine, of Kinmundy, Mr. and Mrs. L.B. KING and Miss Ida WOOD of Champaign, and Ed BARENFINGER of Salem were Sunday dinner guests of L.C. ROHRBOUGH and Miss Helen in their home in Salem. The occasion was L.C.’s 81st birthday.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ira MARSHALL of Meadow Branch community, received word last Wednesday that their son, Virgil, who has been teaching mathematics and coaching basketball at Granite City High School, had received his commission as ensign in the Navy. He was sent to Florida Saturday, where he will have his preliminary work.

- Helena Maude LAMBERT JONES, daughter of Robert Leander and Katherine LAMBERT, was born April 19, 1882 at Lincoln, Ill., and died at her late home in Foster twp. on Jan. 9, 1944. On Dec. 20, 1906 she married William JONES, and they had 2 sons. In 1907 she was converted at a revival and joined the church at Zion. Maude leaves her husband; 2 sons, Robert at home, and Russell of Wilmington, Ill.; 1 daughter-in-law, Mrs. Russell JONES; and 1 aunt, Mrs. Will BENDER of Odin. Services were held from the Zion Church with interment in Jones Cemetery

- Mrs. Ruben CRAIN of Meacham twp. received a letter this week from Lee SHORT somewhere in England telling her of the strange coincidence of meeting his brother, Phil, sometime in Jan. 1944. These 2 boys are the sons of Harry SHORT and always lived in Meacham twp. They have both been in the army for 3 years and this was their first meeting in over 2 years. Lee just recently went to England but Phil has been in North Africa and at one time was reported missing in action. These 2 brothers spent 18 hours together.

- Ellis JOHNSON, C & E.I. fireman, who suffered a broken leg in a train wreck a few weeks ago, left Monday night to enter a hospital in Chicago for x-ray treatments.

- Wilson School: Pvt. Ralph JENKINS of Texas and Shorty OLDEN spent Thursday evening at the KLEISS home.

- Wilson School: Several neighbors and friends planned a surprise party for Mrs. Fred KLEISS honoring her 57th birthday on Jan. 18. The evening was spent playing pinochle and in a social way. Cake and coffee were served by her daughters, Mildred and Helen. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Leo STOCK and family, Mr. and Mrs. Jess CHARLTON and family, Mr. and Mrs. Marion SHUFELDT and family, Miss Anna KOLB, Mr. and Mrs. Chester KLINE, Mr. and Mrs. Eura SHAFFER and family, Harold HAHN, Lester QUANDT, and Wallace PHILLIPS.

- Mrs. Helen LECKRONE and son, Garrett, of Indiana are here visiting Mr. and Mrs. O.E. GARRETT.

- Pleasant Grove: A test well is being drilled on the Clyde HIESTAND farm east of Brubaker.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT called Sunday afternoon at the Merle JONES and W.H. JONES homes.

- Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Walter WARREN visited Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher COLE in Kinmundy. They just received word that their son, Bennie, was stationed at the Great Lakes Training Station.

- Cpl. Herschel J. WILKINSON and wife of West Frankfort called on their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W.T. WILKINSON, Sunday. He is in camp in Penn. and is home on a weekend visit with his wife and family, also to meet his brother, Lt. Chas. E. WILKINSON from California. Both boys will go overseas soon after returning to camp.

- Swift School: Mrs. Elsworth CHANDLER and daughter, Wanza, of the northern part of the state, spent Monday here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT.

- Swift School: Frank JONES and wife spent Sunday with James JONES and helped James celebrate his birthday.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth ROBB and daughter, Judith Ann, spent Sunday evening in Kinmundy at the Bert GARRETT home.

- Swift School: Pvt. Harold CHANCE of Tenn. is spending furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Seymour CHANCE and family.

- Meacham: Mrs. CRAIN received a letter from her son, Carl, and also one from Phil SHORT Monday. The boys are somewhere in England, and Phil and Lee SHORT, brothers, had met there.

- Meacham: Hugh LACEY and wife were home on furlough from Texas.

- Alma W.C.T.U.: The monthly meeting of the W.C.T.U. was held at Mrs. Claude RAINEY’s of Alma, Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 18th. The meeting was conducted by Vice President, Mrs. CLAYTOR. The afternoon was spent in making scuffies for the Marion County Red Cross. Those present were: Mrs. CLAYTOR, Mrs. Fern DOWNEY, Mrs. Delcie FORD, Mrs. Linnie POLANKA, Mrs. Lelia FORD, and hostess, Beth RAINEY. The February meeting will be held at RAINEY’s. Everyone invited. Reporter, Mrs. John FORD, Alma, Ill.

- East Meadow Branch: Alfred LEMAY received a message Saturday of the death of his brother, Elvaton LEMAY of Indianapolis, Ind. He left for the funeral with Clifton LEMAY, Mrs. Ada GARNER and son, Henry GOFORTH of Centralia, and Bill LEMAY and son, Don, of Hillsboro.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Dale HAMMER and son of Sumner called on her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB Sunday. Mrs. ROBB accompanied them home for a visit.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Thurman GENTRY and daughter of Salem and Mrs. Dorothy GRAY and sons, Mrs. Clifton LEMAY and baby, spent Tuesday of last week with their mother, Jocie LEMAY and helped celebrate her birthday.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Esta ROBB spent Friday in Alma with Mrs. Rada CALDWELL.

- Green Ridge: PFC Henry Williams is spending his furlough with his parents and relatives. He has a 22 day furlough.

- Green Ridge: Mrs. Nelda THOMAS has gone back to work at the dress factory after her vacation.

- S. Sgt. Rex GAMMON is spending the week here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles GAMMON.

- Mr. and Mrs. Jesse REESE spent the weekend in Alton with their daughter, Ruby, who is attending college there.

Feb. 3, 1944:

- From the way it looks the boys are just about to quit us. Anyway here are two this week. Here is a V-Mail from Pvt. Arthur MUEHLHAUSEN, who recently reached the shores of merry old England. Here is what he says: I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the paper. Since I have arrived on this side of the pond, I have received 2 issues of the paper. It was very welcome in the States and is even more so over here. I like to read the letters from the fellows in the service and get the home news. I read your Zatso article in the last issue I received and I hope by this time the hog situation has righted. We fellows in the army don’t want to go back to goat meat and if the farmers can’t afford to raise hogs that may come. I have never eaten any goat hash and don’t care to so here’s hoping the price is more profitable by now. Well I had better call a halt to this as space is scarce on V-mail forms. Thanking you again for the paper.

- Here’s one from Junior VANSCYOC, S2 c who was recently transferred to Oklahoma. Here is what he says: How are you all making down at dear old Kinmundy? I sure hope just fine. I am just about the same as ever couldn’t be better. Well I finally got away from Idaho and boy I sure am glad to get out of there. They sent me down to Norman, Okla. I really like it down here a lot better than I did in Farragut. We can run around here without our coats, and up there you would freeze with your coat on. I am going to set 16 weeks of schooling in aviation ordinance and if I make the grade I will get to take aerial gunnery then I will probably get transferred again. Well I will have to close for now.

- Mr. and Mrs. Chester KLINE have received word that their son, Charles, is now in England.

- Francis KOLB and Duane HANNA, seniors in our local high school were in Springfield last week where they were examined and inducted into the U.S. Naval Reserves, subject to call at the end of the school year.

- PFC Robert GRAY and Miss Margaret BARBEE were married on Jan. 29, 1944 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Laverne GRAY in Alma. Miss Norma GARRETT was bridesmaid and Richard GRAY was bestman. Justice of the Peace, Jim GAMMON, performed the ceremony. Other attendants were Mrs. Lyle BARBEE, sister-in-law of the bride and Mrs. Jim GAMMON. PFC GRAY is home on a 10 day furlough from Camp Campbell and will return to camp Feb. 4. For the present, Mrs. GRAY will reside with the former’s parents. Mrs. GRAY is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Guy BARBEE of this city.

- We have received word from Ft. Banning, Ga., that Sgt. Daniel A. ARNOLD has been promoted to Staff Sergeant. He is serving in the Armored Infantry Battalion there. S. Sgt. ARNOLD is the son of Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD of this city. Congratulations, D.A.

- William Thomas PHILLIPS, a life long respected resident of our city died in his sleep Feb. 1 in the home of his son and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Bill PHILLIPS. Mr. PHILLIPS had not been well for several weeks and under a doctor’s care. Last fall, he celebrated his 89th birthday. He was preceded in death by his wife in 1935. Those surviving him are the following children: Bill PHILLIPS of Kinmundy; Mrs. Blanche KENNEDY of Alma; Mrs. Myrtle BUSHONG of Centralia; 1 granddaughter, Mary Margaret KENNEDY; an aged sister, Mrs. Adelia MARLOW of Omega; and a brother, Scott, of Bloomington. Services were held at the Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Mrs. Mary EAGAN HANSON has received word from her husband in Missouri stating he has been promoted from Private to Corporal.

- Mrs. Bob GREEN of North Fork community, had a narrow escape one day last week while canning meat. She had placed glass cans packed full of meat with tight lids on the cans into the oven. After a period of time she heard a loud explosion, on reaching the kitchen she found meat all over the room oven to the ceiling, the oven door had been blown open and meat, glass and grease was everywhere. She is a very lucky woman, no doubt if she or anyone had been in the room at the time of the explosion, they would have been severally burned.

- Ray HARGRAVE, of Centralia, formerly of here, took over the duties of the Clerk of the Selective Service board Feb. 1. He has been a salesman for Northwestern Steel and Wire Co. for several years and is a World War I veteran.

- Mrs. Wayne E. JONES and little son, Bobby, departed this week for Connecticut to join Capt. JONES, who is stationed there as an instructor.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna Mae, spent Thursday evening at the Billie MORRIS home.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT, Virgil LIVESAY and wife, and Mr. and Mrs. R.H. GREEN spent Sunday afternoon with Frank JONES and wife.

- Swift School: Ren WAINSCOTT and wife spent Friday in Effingham.

- Swift School: Kenneth ROBB and family spent Sunday with Mack ROBB and wife.

- Swift School: Clyde BASSETT and family spent Sunday afternoon with Selby GARRETT and wife and Mrs. Paul CALDWELL.

- Pleasant Grove: PFC See MILLICAN and wife spent a few days last week with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. WANTLAND helping to care for her mother.

- Campground: Mrs. George LYONS broke her shoulder when a horse she was driving started to run. Mrs. LYONS had started to get out of the buggy and was between the wheels when the horse started.

- Green Ridge: Miss Jean WILLIAMS came down from Chicago and was operated on at Vandalia Friday for appendicitis.

Feb. 10, 1944:

- Here’s another dandy letter from Major John A. BROOM, Jr. who has moved from North Africa into Italy. Just as a souvenir, he sent us a piece of Italian money, which he says is worth 1 cent in our money. Here is what he says: Since writing to you last time many things have taken place. I’ve spent 4 weeks in a Northern African Army Hospital with jaundice, moved to my new address "Somewhere in Italy" changed assignments, and have met new and interesting people. My last letter told you something about the Army Medical Service over here and at that time I had no idea of becoming a patient of such an institution so soon. My first few days in the hospital were some what uncomfortable - no appetite whatsoever; being stuck in the arms and fingers every so often for blood samples; no taste for cigarettes or my pipe; taking an unnecessary amount of foul tasting medicines; listening to the other patients talk about the swell food they were having in the dining hall (I was on a soft diet and couldn’t bear the sight of it); taking an afternoon nap then being forced to go to sleep at 9 o’clock in the evening. After the first week, however, I regained my appetite and was permitted to eat in the officer’s mess. I was hungry all the time. Immediately I started gaining weight. While "resting" in the hospital, and that’s a true story, I learned to play chess - my first exposure to that game which before I had considered ‘sissy’ and played only by wealthy old men - but with hours to wile away we thought nothing of spending 2 or 3 hours on one game. No, none of us were particularly good. I lost my knights and queen with disgusting regularity, though I did manage to defeat the Ward Champion, an English Lieutenant, one time. In addition to playing chess all of the patients spent a great deal of time reading books and magazines furnished by the American Red Cross. We had recent issues of Time, Newsweek, Life, Collier’s Saturday Evening Post, and others. Such books as "Oliver Wiswell", "30 Seconds Over Toyko", "So little time", "Assignment in Brittany, mystery novels and many others were available to us. Right here I would like to say a good word for the American Red Cross. They are doing a most commendable job over here in operating enlisted men’s clubs, Red Cross Officer’s Clubs and other important services. Many times the only decent place for a man to go for a snack, to write letters, or just plain loafing, is the Red Cross Club. At these clubs they have good eats, recreation rooms, writing rooms and lounge rooms. Field service units make rounds to various organizations serving hot coffee and doughnuts. So far in my experience overseas I have heard criticism only a very few times of the Red Cross, but most always one can hear words of praise for their work. This old world is a small place and seems to get smaller and smaller every day. It seems to me the farther I get away from home the more people I meet who are from parts of the country known to me or are former acquaintances or friends. As you probably know, I lived in Columbia, S.C. for sometime and probably know more people intimately there than in any other part of the States. About 2 months ago, I saw a little negro boy (small man I should say) in Navy fatigue uniform. On his left rear pocket he had the name "Dreher" stenciled in white letters. While living in Columbia, I knew several families by the name of "Dreher". I approached this fellow and said "Boy, where are you from?" (The conversation went something like this.) "Ise frum South Carolina, suh". "From Columbia?", I asked. "No suh, not xactly. Ise frum what dey calls West Columbia." "What part of West Columbia?" "Ise frum what dey calls Sugahtown, suh", he drawled. "Oh yes, right over there in the lane by Cayse school?" I asked. "Yassuh." "Does your Dad work at the brickyard (Guignard Brick Works)?" "Yassuh." "Do you know Mr. ALBERT and Mr. George HOUGH?" "Y-a-s S-U-H. Suh, is you all frum Columbia?" he questioned. "Yes, I am from Columbia and I know your old man", replied. When I started to leave him he extended his hand in real friendship and says, "Majuh, Suh, I hopes we meet again soon, and I hopes dats in Columbia." He then saluted and walked away. I am telling you this because this is a typical conversation between 2 fellows overseas, regardless of color. If they know someone mutually, or are familiar with the same part of the country. It’s really and truly a grand reunion. My Illinois acquaintances don’t seem to show up over here, as I haven’t seen a soul from near Marion county except my former Executive Officer, Michael J. KING, who was formerly in the oil business during the oil boom. (He’s from Mt. Vernon.) Censorship regulations prevent me from writing anything in detail about this country, perhaps I’ll be able to do so at a later date. Afterall there is a war being fought over here. I’m sure I can say a few things about it, however. Geographically it is a beautiful country, with mountains (some snowcapped), vegetable gardens, citrus fruits, apples, etc. The general means of transportation for the natives are mule, burro, horse, oxen, or human drawn 2-wheeled carts. There are some enormous cats with wheels about 6 or 8 feet in diameter. These carts are not what we would call factory made, but are hewn by hand from raw timber in shops such as a blacksmith shop in the States. Driving a vehicle on the highways is a most difficult task due to the fact that there are so many of these carts on the road. In addition to this hazard there are always many people walking on the roads. Have you ever been down South and seen a negro carrying a watermelon on his head? I’ve seen that many times and have always marveled at the balance they had, but I think these Italian people have them beat on that score. They carry tremendous loads on their heads, and much of the time the bearer may be barefooted, at the best have a pair of wooden sole shoes with a strap over the top - much the same as a shower shoe. Really, I’ve seen children and some grownups as well walking in cold mud or water on the streets or highways barefooted when the temperature was below freezing. It’s pitiful, especially to see poor innocent children going through such privation. We, of the good old United States, do not know or realize what it means to be poor, nor do we know what it means to have a real war come to our country to tear down our home and our places of business. We can be so thankful and deeply grateful for this. The end of this war will mean much to every civilized person in the world, so we must end it soon. We want to get home to our families, and, no doubt, the people of the invaded countries want to settle down to business again. I’d better leave such talk to the News Correspondents, don’t you think? I received the carton of cigarettes from the Chamber of Commerce and want to thank them for the remembrance. Also, to all the people who have so kindly and thoughtfully remembered me with greetings, I wish to thank them. Your thoughts of us, your prayers for our safe return are always requested and graciously received. S’long until next time.

- Here’s a letter from Cadet Ted LACEY, a marine who is in O.C.S. in Florida. Here is what he says: Just a few lines. Received the paper and seemed like old times to read it again. I am now in the Army Transportation Corps. I took a course in Engineering at Sheepshead Bay, N.Y., and was selected to come to the A.T.C. Officers School here at St. "Pete". I like it fine. We stay at the Colonial Hotel. Everything was on the honor system - no M.P.’s and etc., until a few of us got in the local ‘Bastille’. Now it is regular routine. We are trained here in the handling of Diesel powered craft up to 160 feet long, which includes interland cargo boats, crash boats, and invasion craft. I finish here Feb. 5, go to New Orleans, La., Feb. 7, am in line for an Army commission when I get there. Then we report to the Port of Embarkation. Then when or where, I don’t know. The weather here is really swell and have enjoyed every minute of the time I have been in training here. Have had a lot of fun and intend to have more. When the war is over I intend to use my experience as a means of shipping out and go around the world. So will be dropping you a line from afar away port before long. Well will have to sign off. Will be seeing you.

- Mrs. Arminda BROWN fell in her home Friday morning and suffered a broken hip, and was rushed to the Salem Hospital.

- William Thomas PHILLIPS, son of William and Hester Ann PHILLIPS, was born in Marion Co. on Oct. 13, 1854, at Omega, Ill. He was of the family of 11 children, and was the 3rd child. The only surviving of this family is 1 sister, Adelia MARLOW of Omega, and a brother, Scott PHILLIPS of Bloomington, Ill. He was married to Mary Etta PYLES on Aug. 25, 1877 at Salem. They had 3 children: William PHILLIPS Jr. of Kinmundy, Myrtle BUSHONG of Centralia, and Blanche KENNEDY of Alma, who survive him. His wife died Sept. 11, 1935. At an early age he joined the Presbyterian Church at Omega, later moving his membership to the Kinmundy Church. Besides his son and 2 daughters, he leaves 1 granddaughter, Mary Margaret KENNEDY, 1 daughter-in-law, Cora PHILLIPS, 2 sons-in-law, Lewis BUSHONG and James KENNEDY. He died Feb. 1, 1944, and services were held at Linton Funeral Home with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Pvt. Thomas BOONE of Michigan is here and in Vandalia, Ill. for this week visiting his wife and parents.

- Mrs. D.F. NEATHERY has sold her store building, formerly known as the W.W. NEIL Building, to Mr. Jesse GEORGE, who will move his store therein in the near future. Mr. GEORGE also purchased some of the fixtures such as the meat counter scales, etc. belonging to Mrs. NEATHERY.

- In Memoriam of our dear son and brother, Billy DODSON, who died Feb. 11, 1941. Mr. and Mrs. Chas. DODSON and daughters.

- Swift School: Selby GARRETT and wife of Alma were Sunday dinner guests at the Frank GARRETT home.

- Swift School: Wess ROBB and wife were Sunday dinner guests at the Virgil LIVESAY home.

- Swift School: Clyde BASSETT and family, Darrell Gene LIVESAY, Frank GARRETT and wife and daughter, Donna, Mrs. Billie MORRIS and son, Jackie, Claude HANNA and family, Paul SWIFT and family, and Dorothy SWIFT were callers in Salem Saturday.

- Omega: Carl MILLICAN of the U.S. Army is spending a week’s furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ben MILLICAN.

- Meacham: Mrs. Dora HEICHER and son called on Mr. and Mrs. Edwin HARRELL Sunday afternoon.

- East Meadow Branch: Ann SLOVICK, S 1 c, U.S.N.R., spent the weekend here with her mother, Mrs. Mary SLOVICK and friends. Seaman SLOVICK has been in the U.S. Naval Hospital at Great Lakes since Thanksgiving with an infected eye.

- Wilson School: Last Wednesday, friends gathered at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jess CHARLTON honoring Mrs. CHARLTON’s 31st birthday. The evening was spent playing pinochle. Those present were: Marion SHUFELDT and family, Eura SHAFFER and family, Leo STOCK and family, and Mildred and Helen KLEISS.

- Meadow Branch: Mrs. KILE who was living in Alabama died. She was a former resident of this neighborhood.

- East Zion: Amos HAKE from the Navy in Idaho is spending furlough here with his wife and son.

- Miletus: A baby boy was born at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Clark HAMPSTEN on Feb. 4 named Donald Lee. Sunday visitors were the grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Irvin HAMPSTEN, Mr. and Mrs. Grover JOHNSTON, Glen and Vera HAMPSTEN, and Mrs. Virgil HAMPSTEN.

Feb. 17, 1944:

- Here’s a letter from Lt. Roy DOOLEN, who is now seeing the sights through the fog of merry old England. He says: Years ago I would never have dreamed that The Kinmundy Express would have world wide distribution. But it has just that. Mine is getting over here at varied intervals. I never know which week’s paper to expect next. However, I enjoy them immensely and wish to express my appreciation for it. Even though the news is a month and a half old, it doesn’t seem that way to me. I can keep up with the hometown’s progress week by week. For the past couple of months I have been roaming around the little island called England. The whole country has basically the same typography, which is small rolling hills covered with grass or small grain. There are few trees in most parts. The fields are in 5 to 10 acre plots with a hedge fence. It is very pretty when the sun is shining. From above it looks like a pretty patchwork quilt. The people are as friendly as one could expect, when there are so many soldiers around. When you read about blackouts and fogs, they are not exaggerating a bit. I certainly never saw anything so dark as it can get here. Last week was notable for 2 things: I got my laundry back, which is a rarity over here; and the sun shone 1 day, an even greater rarity. At present I am going to school, a never ending process in the army. In another week I will be through and go back to living in the field again. I have no idea where my outfit is at present but will be able to contact them through our base camp. Then I will take my map in hand, catch up with the outfit and go back to my duties as Motor and Executive Officer of my troop. Well this is enough for the present. Keep the paper coming and thanks a lot.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Leland ALDERSON, who is stationed in New Mexico. He says: On my recent delayed route, I had the opportunity to be home. That is what all the men in the service enjoy most. I also tried to see you, my chief reason being to thank you for sending the Kinmundy Express. But the editor of a paper whether in the movies or in Kinmundy is a hard man to find, so on more than one attempt I failed. Since I am writing I would like to tell you something of the type of training that the Army offers. We all like to know what is ahead for us, so for the boys yet to be inducted maybe I can ease your minds a bit. I went through what I now realize was a very efficient Basic Training schedule as compared with the training some or most of the boys here have received. At the time it was plenty rough and rugged. Even the words Jefferson Barracks brings a moan from most G.I.’s. Our first 2 weeks were spent in P.T. (physical training) close order drill, to the right flank, to the left flank, to rear march until you became so weary you wished the drill sergeant would pass out instead of you. But it was new and we all tried hard. The next couple of weeks we began to get lectures, map reading, extended order drill, tent pitching, sanitation, and rolling a pack. Each day at 5 o’clock the day started for us and we witnessed great difficulty attempting to crawl from our warm beds into the cold air that the tent had let sneak in all night. We had a small stove in each tent but as a rule it was out before morning and the fire pail had a little ice on it. By this time we were ready for the use of the piece or rifle manual of arms and day firing. Then came the day to fire for record. The day we left with full pack and carbine, was about 5 below zero, and a 2 mile march to Moss Hollow. We fired both Thompson Sub Machine gun and carbine. I surprised even myself with a score of 173 firing with our gloves on the temperature that morning being even colder than the day we left. On the third day we returned to J.B. Then came the parades before the Colonel, soldiers and more soldiers. The next phase of our training was the most interesting, camouflage. Our first instruction was "Without Camouflage a soldier’s piece is of no value for he never will get the chance to use it". We were demonstrated special painted uniforms, also those the boys made from torn sacks. They really worked but one would have to see the actual results to appreciate it. Then we all assembled around a quiet little farm and farmyard. The farmer was chopping wood, his wife feeding the chickens then over the loud speaker came the roar of a plane, an enemy plane, the farmer and his wife turned into 2 Sergeants. The farmer hopped onto the woodpile and was instantly at the trigger of a 50 caliber machine gun everyone ducked. The wife was flying across the chicken yard into the chicken house. The whole chicken house flew apart and an anti aircraft gun immediately was screaming out terrific blast. Out of a haystack located in the farmyard, came a speeding jeep loaded with G.I.’s firing a mounted machine gun, the whole farmyard bursting into the unexpected yet so very practical. Then came our bivouac actually practicing extended order and scouting. Also a few battles with blanks. The last was the gas chamber and incendiary bombs. Gas I think speaks for itself, no way to fight back, you only protect yourself as rapidly as possible the best way you can. Incendiary bombs tons of them and each developing 4,300 degrees Fahrenheit of heat when they go off are being dropped daily by the Allies. Steel melts at about 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. That may give one a comparative imagination of the damaging power they possess. We then went before the Colonel for inspection and questioning. Receiving a passing rating, we then turned casuals. Some for a very short time because they were listed for shipment and hence moved out before the others (I was one). It is time for lights out so thanks again for the paper.

- Here’s a nice V-Mail letter from Pvt. Earl BRIMBERRY, who is wandering around in New Guinea. He says: Today I received my first 2 copies of your paper since I have been overseas. It gave me the same feeling as I had the night we sailed into harbor after so many days in a sardine can. I read Tuffy’s letter and I wholly agree with him on the New Guinea issue. I can’t say much about what we’re doing, but I guess you know more about that than I do, as your paper was the first I’ve seen in 2 months. Thanks a million and keep up the good work.

- Here’s one from PFC Lewis SPURLIN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Truman SPURLIN, of Vandalia, but formerly of this city. He is a so-called Leatherneck in the Marines and is now in the South Pacific. He says: Even though I am thousands of miles from the little town of Kinmundy, I will always have a warm spot in my heart for the people and the town. I think it is only natural because I spent the first 11 or 12 years of my life there. Since I last saw Kinmundy, I have had many experiences and saw many sights on my voyage from the States and in the combat areas. I guess the reason for writing this letter, is to tell you how much I enjoy reading the little hometown paper. It cheers me up to read about what the people are doing back there. I also want to thank the Chamber of Commerce for remembering us over here, by a carton of cigarettes. I don’t smoke myself, but I have them to one of my buddies who sure did appreciate them. We participated in the landings in the Empress Augusta Bay area on Bougainville and engaged the enemy in combat. As for myself, I didn’t find the life too boring because there is always some excitement or work to be done. Our first day in action we encountered numerous Jap snipers; but they were promptly taken care of and put in their places (6 feet under). An exciting experiences occurred to me one morning about 6 o’clock while I was lying asleep in my jungle hammock (which was buried in the fox hole supported on two logs.) I was awakened by something shaking my hammock and when I raised up to see who it was, it shook me more violently. I immediately fell out of it to see what the score was. I crawled to the entrance of my fox hole and here before my eyes the whole jungle was swaying back and forth and the whole earth rolled. As soon as I got out of my hammock I realized it was an earthquake; because I had felt them before, while I was in California. I could write more about the experiences, but the censor is probably pulling his hair out and sharpening his scissors by now. We received most of our Christmas packages the middle of this month and believe me there sure was a bunch of happy Marines. The big attraction for the boys down here is mail call. Perhaps I have written too much; but I just want to let you know everything is well in hand down here and I hope conditions there are the same.

- Here’s one from Norman BOWMAN, APC, who is aboard the ship U.S.S. LeJeune. Norman will be remembered by several although he has been away from here for quite some time. He says: This is to inform you of change in address and to thank you for your kindness in sending the Kinmundy Express to us fellows in the armed forces. I have been receiving your paper for quite some time now, and though there are very few people living in Kinmundy I know - not having lived there since 1919 when I was about 9 years old - I nevertheless appreciate and enjoy receiving your paper. It is especially interesting to note the large and ever increasing number in the services from Kinmundy. It seems that Kinmundy is doing its share in this war with 290 members in the armed forces.

- According to the list received from the Selective Service Board, the following Kinmundy boys have been inducted into the Army and Navy and will soon leave for camp along with 54 other men from the Salem area. Leo Marion JOHNSON, William Sherman JEANS, James Junior TATE, Forrest Eugene BURKETT, Charles PERGL, Walter Earnest McHATTON, Melvin GEILER, and Roy Edward MILLER.

- Mr. and Mrs. James O. EAGAN have a son born Sunday in the Salem Hospital.

- We have received word that Charles Wm. YOUNG has been promoted to Captain. Capt. YOUNG is in the Medical Corps and is now ready for overseas duty with the 41st Field Hospital.

- Word was received here recently by Mr. and Mrs. Arthur HOEHNE, that their son-in-law, Pvt. Orval T. GORDON, has been promoted to PFC.

- Aviation Cadet Walter W. WILLIAMS, son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy WILLIAMS, residing southwest of this city, has completed the Army’s Primary Flight Training Course at Thunderbird Field No. 1 in Arizona.

- Vernon STOCKER and Miss Martha BRASEL, both of this city, stole the march on their many friends Saturday and were married at the Methodist parsonage. They were accompanied by the bride’s twin, Miss Mary BRASEL and Cliff OLDEN. The bride is the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ed BRASEL and is a graduate of K.H.S. with the class of ‘34. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John STOCKER of this city, and is at present employed for Geo. CLEMENTZ. They will make their home in the Merta Rotan Apartment.

- Mr. and Mrs. Elroy A. SNELLING of Chicago, celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary Feb. 13 with 25 guests in attendance. Mr. SNELLING moved to Kinmundy from Nashu, N.H. in 1858, and lived in this city and township for 53 years, and in California, Indiana, and in Chicago for 33 years. He was married, Jennie HALLETT at Princeton, Ind. on Feb. 13, 1883. They are the parents of 2 sons: H.M. SNELLING, whom they have made their home for the past 21 years; and L.A. SNELLING of Sheboygan, Wis. They have a grandson, Lt. Elroy A. SNELLING, now stationed at Corpus Christi, Texas, as Asst. Supt. of Training Center and a granddaughter, Mrs. Genevieve LINDSAY of Sheboygan Falls, Wis. The great-grandchildren are William and Shirley LINDSAY of Sheboygan Falls and David Elroy SNELLING of Corpus Christi, Texas. Mrs. SNELLING was born in Charleston, Ill. on June 22, 1865.

- Dr. H.L. HANNA of this city was invited to cast his hat in the ring for the Republican nomination for Coroner of Marion county, and he has accepted the invitation. Bob HANCOCK of Salem will be the Doctor’s opponent in the general election this fall. Regarding this, the doctor said "I have a race horse that beats a horse owned by HANCOCK every time we match them. And if my horse can beat his horse, I see no reason why I can’t beat him in the election this fall."

- Mr. and Mrs. Manuel WELSH, Sr. have bough a home in Mt. Vernon and will moved there in the near future. They have been living in the Fannie LOWE property for 2 years.

- Mrs. John RIDLEY arrived here Friday from South Dakota where she has been with her husband, Pvt. John RIDLEY, who is being transferred to Mississippi.

- S. Sgt. R.D. AUSTIN arrived last Thursday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. D.T. UNDERWOOD from a camp in New River, N.C. This is Sgt. AUSTIN’s first trip home since he joined the Marines 4 years ago. He made his home with the UNDERWOODs before going into the service. He is a nephew of Mrs. UNDERWOOD.

- Mrs. James DONOHO and son, Gene, spent the weekend in Chicago with Mr. DONOHO, A.S., who is in boot training at Great Lakes.

- Mr. and Mrs. Wm. PHILLIPS were Centralia callers Wednesday. Mr. PHILLIPS consulted a doctor regarding a badly infected eye which has been causing a lot of suffering.

- Sgt. Major Neil JOHNSON and a soldier friend of North Carolina, arrived here yesterday to spend the night with his mother and grandmother, Mrs. Paulene JOHNSON and Mrs. Nancy NEIL. They were enroute to St. Louis for official business.

- Miss Pearl ARNOLD of Springfield spent the weekend here with her mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Miss Ruby.

- Meadow Branch: Pvt. Dwight ORGAN and wife spent Friday with his father, Henry ORGAN and Aunt Rose MARSHALL. He is being transferred from Kentucky to California and is enjoying furlough.

- Green Ridge: PFC Henry WILLIAMS left Wednesday for camp in Washington.

Feb. 24, 1944:

- Here’s another letter from Sgt. Raymond MOELLER who is still sojourning in Merry Old England. He says: Just a few lines to let you know at this time and I know that it will be very short as at the present time we have very little news to write about. I kinda like it here as yet, but I have been in a lot better places than this. I think that I have finally got to a more permanent station and I am sure glad of it. A person at least knows what the next days work will be. And that sure makes a one feel much better. I am sure that I can do it in a way that should help out quite a lot. My papers have not caught up with me as yet, so I will send my address and in that way I am sure to get it a lot sooner. Well, I am going to try and write more next time as at the present my mind is a perfect blank. Sure do hope that everyone is well around Kinmundy.

- Here’s a note from Pvt. James E. JENKINS who wished his address changed to Texas. He says: Just a line to let you know I receive the paper each week. So in return I will send you a copy of our paper in exchange. I think the letters from the boys are very good and also gives us an idea where they are. I have had 6 different changes of address, so I hope I get stationed and stay so it won’t be so hard for you to know where I am. I notice there are 292 in the service. It sure would be nice to see all those boys back in the town and neighboring towns again, and from the looks of the many different prisoners it will. Well I will close and thank you and the ones in the office for the Express.

- Here’s one from PFC Harold SIMMONS, who is seeing the sights of Iran, a place where most preachers would give their right leg to visit, but from the way Harold talks, he would probably be willing to give his right leg to get out of it. He says: I have been trying to find time to write and thank you for the paper, but just never got around to it. You don’t know or can’t even imagine how glad I am to receive the paper and I think all the boys in the service are just like me. It seems as if mail from home is about all a person has to look forward to. It doesn’t come very regular over here but that makes me appreciate it even more. I don’t know very much to tell you about this country except it would be a good one to get out of. When I first reached this country, everything was new and strange to me and I noticed all of the things that were different from our own, but now I am getting rather used to them and don’t notice them so much. The people in this country are very backward as a rule although some of them are being pretty well educated. Most of the educated people being very rich. A lot of the people are being hired by the U.S. government as laborers under the supervision of the army. You’ve read and seen pictures of old Biblical stories. Most of these people dress and look exactly as they did. You can see some of the tombs that were built many years ago. I have seen Daniel’s tomb, you have read about him, I know. The one railroad which is operated exactly like the one the Major BROOM described. I could go on for hours, but I think I can tell it better than I can write it. Here’s hoping I get to tell you all about it soon.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Earl SCHWABE, who wants his address changed, as he is maneuvering around in Louisiana. He says: I am dropping you a few lines to let you know my new address. I am now on maneuvers in Louisiana and I mean we have some ice here which I didn’t see in Florida. We are going to be here for 3 months or longer. This is a real small field, but a good clean one. We are only a few miles from the Texas line. Well, I am still a private, but maybe my rating will come through some time, sure hope so anyway. Thanks again for the paper. It is really swell of you to send it and I want you to know I really appreciate it. So long for now as I have to go on guard. I hope Guin is still in the States.

- The local fire department was called out to the SCOTT farm north of town Friday to help extinguish a roof fire on the house. But due to the rather muddy lane leading up to the house, the engine did not make it in time and the bucket brigade went into action and soon had the flames extinguished. Considerable damage was done to the roof. The house was occupied by the S.W. GENTRY family. The cause of the fire was a spark from the chimney.

- After the regular meeting of the Rosedale Rebekah Lodge Friday evening, a party was given honoring Martha BRASEL, the very efficient Warden of the lodge, who recently became the bride of Vernon STOCKER.

- Mr. and Mrs. A.J. JACKSON celebrated their little granddaughter, Charlotte HONN, 4th birthday Sunday by inviting Mr. and Mrs. Russell WILLIAMS and children to lunch. In the morning, the little honoree attended Sunday School and placed her 4 pennies in the birthday offering. Mrs. HONN and 2 children of Champaign arrived in Kinmundy Saturday morning.

- Pvt. Darrell REESE and wife of North Carolina are visiting with relatives.

- Pvt. Erven E. LEAT left last Saturday for his camp in Texas after spending a furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul ARNOLD, of the Arnold Chapel neighborhood, and with his sister, Mrs. Reindl BAYLIS of this city. A party was given in the Arnold’s Chapel School on Tuesday evening of last week in his honor.

- We have received word that Benny DOOLEN, AM3 c, has been promoted to Aviation Metalsmith 2 c. He is stationed at Atlanta.

- We have received word that T 5 Eldon COLCLASURE was promoted to Sergeant last week. He is stationed in Florida.

- PFC James GREEN of Arkansas arrived Tuesday morning to spend a week here with his family.

- Mr. and Mrs. Otis SMITH and daughter, Doris, moved Sunday from the ROBNETT property near the mill to Decatur where Mr. SMITH has employment. The SMITHs have 2 sons in the service.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. F.S. HARRIS called on Mrs. Edwin HARRELL Wednesday afternoon.

- Meadow Branch: Word has been received that Leo JOHNSON has been inducted into the Army. He is the 29th boy who attended school in this district to be taken into the army. Otis HINES was the only one from here to serve in World War I.

- Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Ira MARSHALL had word from their son, Pvt. Robert G. MARSHALL that he was being transferred from Charleston, Ore. to Ft. Ord, Cal. All the M.P.’s along the Oregon coast were gathered at Portland and shipped to Ft. Ord for extensive training.

- Swift School: Phyllis MIDDLETON gave a Valentine Party for her pupils and their parents at the school house last Monday evening. Games were played and Valentines exchanged. Phyllis served punch and cake. Cleve DOOLEN and wife were guests.

- Swift School: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT and daughter, Donna Mae, spent Wednesday evening in Patoka at the Roy JONES home.

- Swift School: Mrs. Fred GAMMON spent Saturday night and Sunday with her parents, Virgil LIVESAY and family.

- Mrs. Fred GAMMON moved their furniture from the V.V. BARCROFT property into the Chas. GAMMON home where she will reside for the duration or at least while Fred is away.

- Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS expects to soon move into the Fina GARRETT house near the Christian Church. Mrs. ATKINS has been living in the John GARNER property just east of the city park.

March 2, 1944:

- It sorta looks like the boys are slipping when it comes to writing letters to us. Just 1 received this week and it was from PFC Thomas GORDON, better known as Junior, who has been spending the winter down in Texas. He says: Have been aiming to write for sometime but seem to always put it off until another day. I wrote you sometime ago and thanked you for the paper, but will take this opportunity to thank you again. Both my wife and I enjoy reading about what is going on back home. I also enjoy reading the letters from the other boys in the service who are stationed at various places. All but my first 7 days in the army have been spent in Texas. The winters are exceptionally mild which makes it a nice place to be stationed. At present the orange and grapefruit trees are blooming and the weather is very nice. One can really enjoy it too when you read the letters from home about the zero weather and snow. My wife has been here with me all winter and she likes the mild winter weather a lot. This is an ideal training center for the weather is suitable for flying the year around. For the past 15 months I have been stationed here as one of the maintenance personnel of the training division. I have seen a good many students come and go from here and I have never seen anyone from the home town except Richard JONES, a cousin of mine, who was stationed here until he left for Cadet training. But a couple of weeks ago Maxey SPENCER went through chow line while I was doing my 3 day hitch of K.P. I talked with him a short while but I hope to see him from time to time while he is here. I must sign off for now hoping this finds things back at Kinmundy as well as could be expected. I want to thank you again for the paper and say hello to all my friends back home.

- A little bird told us about another boy making good and the said boy is none other than Bill COLE. Bill is employed in the Ship Yards in Evansville, Ind. and is one of the 528 welders employed there. On last Monday morning a bulletin board published the names of those doing the most satisfactory work, and Bill’s name was first for those on this boat and 7th in the whole shipyard. Again we say if you want a job well done, get someone from Kinmundy to do it.

- Mr. and Mrs. Emery WRIGHT of Alma are very happy over their 2 sons, Dale and Kenneth, meeting in England. The boys had wanted to see each other and had tried to get in touch with one another for sometime before they succeeded in doing so. They were together for 7 days. Dale and Kenneth wrote back and said they were both speechless due to the fact that they hadn’t seen each other for 18 months. After they did get to talking, they talked about home, each other, everything and everybody. They are going to try and meet again the first of next month. Kenneth wrote home and said that it was a little family reunion with the exception of 5 but thought that they would be togther again soon. Dale had received a letter from Art BOYD of Kinmundy so they are going to see each other as soon as possible. Art is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Mel BOYD of this city.

- Mr. and Mrs. Orie ATKINS announce the marriage of their daughter, Miss Laura Mildred ATKINS to Pvt. Manuel Ralph WELSH, son of Mr. and Mrs. G.M. WELSH of Mt. Vernon. The ceremony was performed in Mineral Wells, Texas on Feb. 19. Mrs. J.L. ALEXANDER of Chicago attended the bride and Pvt. Richard ZIECLER of Evanston served as best man. Other attendants were Mrs. Edward WEBER of Milwaukee, Wis, Pvt. Edward SULLIVAN of Chicago, and Mrs. J.H. BURTON. A wedding party was given the newly weds at the Crazy Water Hotel in Mineral Wells, Texas.

- A deal was closed Monday whereby Joe RENO became the owner of the city’s only barber shop. Mr. RENO has had the shop leased from Lyle WILLIAMS, who has been working in Chicago. Mr. WILLIAMS, who has been working in Chicago. Mr. WILLIAMS has been here the past week visiting with homefolks.

- Word has been received of the death of Bertha BUNDY COOPER in Phoenix, Ariz. which occurred on Feb. 20, 1944. She was the second daughter of the late S.L. and Minnie BUNDY, having spent her early childhood in Kinmundy and nearby neighborhoods. During World War I, she served her country as a nurse in France. At the close of the war she returned and was married to Jesse COOPER, who survives. A small son died several years ago. Bertha had been a semi-invalid for the past 5 years. Interment was at Phoenix where they have made their home for a number of years.

- Mr. and Mrs. W.H. MORGAN have received word that their son, Clyde Q. MORGAN, has been promoted to First Lieutenant. He is stationed in Florida.

- Mrs. Fred CRAIG received word of her sister, Eva’s death in the San Diego Hospital in California.

- The friends of L.L. HULTS, for many years a resident of this community, will be sorry to learn he is suffering from a fractured him, following a fall in the home of his daughter, Mrs. R.E. LOVELL, of Mateno, Ill., where he has made his home for a number of years.

- Mrs. Margaret GRAY received a cablegram last week from her son, Frederick, stating that he had arrived safely overseas.

- Pvt. Woodrow WILKINSON spent an 8 day furlough here recently with homefolks. Upon his return to camp, he was shipped out and is now on his way across.

- Capt. James MORGAN of Camp Grant is here for a few days with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.H. MORGAN.

- Miletus (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Estel JAMISON are parents of a baby boy born Feb. 18.

- Miletus (from last week): Pvt. Woodrow WILKINSON left Thursday of last week for a camp in Maryland after spending a 7 day furlough here with his wife and parents.

- Pleasant Grove (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Oran ALDERSON and daughters, and Mr. and Mrs. Gene HELM and son spent Sunday with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. George LONNON. Dinner was served in honor of Mr. LONNON’s birthday which was the 22nd.

- Young School: Mr. and Mrs. Ellis WILKINSON received a letter from their son, Kenneth, who is in New Guinea. He was allowed to send home several pictures and told of 3 battles he had participated in, and said he was still alright.

- Pleasant Grove: Pvt. Paul SMITH of Kentucky spent a weekend furlough with Ralph HIESTAND and wife.

- Wilson School: M. Sgt. and Mrs. Paul TRAINOR and little daughter, Paula, of N.C. and Mr. and Mrs. Harley LITTLETON of Farina visited Thursday with Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and daughters.

- Green Ridge: The kitchen shower for Mr. and Mrs. Ruben McCURDY last Sunday was well attended.

- Green Ridge: Several from around here attended the kitchen shower for Mr. and Mrs. James (Bill) HEADLEY last Tuesday night.

- East Zion (from last week): Miss Helen DONOHO and Bill HEADLEY were married Saturday by Rev. WRIGHT of Alma.

- Mrs. D.F. NEATHERY attended the funeral of her sister-in-law, Mrs. Major LAMBORN in Vernon, Monday.

March 9, 1944:

- We have been told that our paper is being read by several of the boys in the service besides our immediate homefolks. And here is a letter from a lad we do not know, Cpl. DURER of California. He says: As a friend of Carl GREEN, I am writing to say that we enjoy reading your little paper, especially interesting do we find the letters of the men in the service. Though we have not been overseas, our work in the army has been very interesting and Carl intends to write a letter about it which he hopes you will publish. I wish that my home town had a paper similar to yours.

- Here’s a letter from Chaplain (Capt.) Cecil C. LOWE, who is now roaming around the state of Arkansas. He says: There are definite signs of approaching spring here in the Southern Ozarks. It arouses the half dormant zeal of a one time farmer to rush out at the first break of day to tear up the earth and begin spring seeding. These inclinations are soon satisfied by digging fox-holes and slit-trenches. If no excavating implements are to be had the helmet will serve the purpose. Ones ambitions for violent exercise can also be satisfied by the forced marches which some energetic officer conceives as being urgently needed to toughen-up both the officers and enlisted personnel. Bivouac conditions have led me to believe that Arkansas mud is just as slick, adhesive, and bottomless as anything that Illinois can produce. We had bivouacked in a rolling post-oak woodland that had served the purpose of concealment quite well, but on attempting to take our departure from the area our mess and supply trucks began to sink. A half track and 3 tanks which came to our aid soon pulled themselves under. We marched toward camp, but at nightfall, 2 of the tanks were still bogged down. On a recent bivouac we conducted Chapel services in an open space in the woods at the foot of a small knoll where my pulpit, which happened to be a large stump, was located. Stumps and logs which we carried in served as pews for the large and attentive congregation. As Jew, Catholic, Protestant, and Confucianism (our Chinese orderly), we worshiped God in the great Natural Amphitheater with the birds and squirrels as spectators and the canopy of heaven as a roof. Our Presbyterian songleader led the songs which our substitute (no preference religion) organist played on our field organ accompanied by our Jewish bugler, and the sermon was rendered by the Methodist Chaplin. One Jewish officer pitched his tent on a hillock by the Chaplain’s tent desiring, as he expressed it, "to be nearer to God". The Army proves to be a great training ground in Democratic principles and for lasting friendships. Here, as in civilian life, one finds the fellow that seems to fit in nowhere and also, the man that is able to fill any position. Even though certain other factors tend to neutralize their good, the work of the Social Service Organization and the Chaplaincy offers the Service Man the greatest morale, moral and spiritual opportunities that the Service Man has enjoyed under any previous war conditions. The Champlain was treated to a very pleasant surprise recently when he received notification from the War Department of his promotion to the rank of Captain. Having had no previous knowledge of such a recommendation, it came as something of a shock - yet, not too unpleasant a shock. Although feeling unworthy of the new rank, he desires to attain to the standard which the position merits. We desire to express our express our sincere appreciation for your thoughtfulness in providing us with news from our old home community. Kindly accept our thanks with the small inclosure to help speed "The Express" on it’s way to the remote parts of the earth.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Hugh LACEY, who has been lucky enough to spend the winter in California. He says: Just a few lines to let you know that my address has been changed again. I am back to my old base, but under a different squadron since I got back from Texas. It’s good to get back to a decent base and country. The sunshine here the past few days has been running down the gutters. Tonite it came down in the form of sleet. Since I got back they have me working on the alert crew. We take care of planes coming into this field - mostly servicing them once in awhile an engine change. I sure do look forward to getting the paper from home. I want to thank you for it and let you know we appreciate it.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Roy DAVIS, who spent his boyhood days in our community, but is now sojourning in the state of Texas. He says: It was good of you to include my name on the Home Town Service Roll and send me a paper each week. While I have been away from Kinmundy for several years, I have been able to keep in touch with affairs there through the Express, and appreciate it even more now than I am in the service. Kinmundy will always be my hometown no matter how far war or business takes me and it is always dear to my heart. I enjoyed Leland ALDERSON’s letter in last week’s paper about his basic training at Jefferson Barracks. It was particularly enjoyable because Leland and I went through Kinmundy Grade School together, and because my own basic training was very much the same as his. We had one advantage, however, being down here in Texas. The weather was and is good. Most of the time we don’t even need jackets on as it is so warm. Our barracks are heated by automatic gas heat, so we have no coal or dust to worry about. But our training is equally rugged. Fortunately I had only 6 weeks of regular basic training, and am now receiving my technical training in Clerk’s School. Our courses last 9 weeks and include Army Regulations, Table of Organization of the Army, Military Correspondence, and a study of the various forms used by the Army. It is really swell to be in school again. In my "spare" time, I manage to keep busy organizing a Sunday School in our Battalion. It is the only one I know of in Army Camps. As its president, I have had a splendid opportunity to work with the Chaplain and have developed attendance to gratifying proportions. I’m hoping to be permanently assigned to a Chaplain after my courses are over, so that I may spend my full time in the work of the Chapel. My best regards to the folks "back home".

- Here’s another letter from PFC Derrill STIPP, formerly of Alma, but now in Italy. He says: Well, I will write you a letter thanking you for the paper again and telling you or asking you to tell the boys I enjoy reading their letters. I sure do feel like I am home or close to home when I read one of them, as 22 months away from home will make a man have the blues and homesick too, and about 10 of them months sleeping on the ground and in a foxhole. That is where I am writing this letter. From what I hear there has been several of the boys left the States since I have. I sure will be glad when we can all come home again and sit down to a good meal once more. We have some pretty good food, but not like home. The Spam and hash and stew sure gets old. We do have some beef once in a while, but I guess it is a pretty hard job to feed all the men in the army. Will close hoping to get home soon.

- Here’s another letter from Paul PARRISH, S2 c, who is still sailing the seven seas on the U.S.S. Pelias. He says: Truly I am grateful that my ration of "Home Town Morale" in the form of the Kinmundy Express is arriving regularly. Your column entitled Zatso makes a fellow feel as though he was on the scene. To we who are so far away from home, those sketches of "Close to Home" life are priceless. We can’t say too much about our duty here, but when the time can be revealed, I am sure it shall bring the Nation’s "Well Done". The hospitality is good, but how true I am finding the words ‘Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home.’ That is why the Kinmundy Express is so valuable to me for it is a life line between myself and the things at home I’ve come to treasure so since leaving them.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Charles DISS, who has also been lucky enough to spend most of the winter in California. He says: I wish to take this opportunity to express my thanks for the paper. It is certainly nice to set down and read the news from the old home town after a day out in the field. I have been intending to write ever since I got the first paper, but somehow or another they manage to keep us boys pretty busy during our basic training. I imagine some of the boys who took their basic here at Camp Roberts can verify my statement. So far I have seen very many places of interest and I imagine in the next few months I will have really seen some sights that will long be remembered. Oh yes, we have been having a great abundance of the so called ‘liquid sunshine’ they speak of so often. Especially the comedians on the radio. Even though it sounds funny when they talk about it, it is just about the truth. We get a nice heavy dew about every day. As for our trip out here, it was a very enjoyable one, especially for me, as I had hardly ever been out of Illinois. It took us 3 days and 3 nights to make the trip and of course we were all anxious as to where we were going and what branch of service we would be put in. Of course, there were rumors all the way out here but no one knew for sure. However, when we reached Los Angeles on a Sunday night we were assured we were going to Camp Roberts. Then we were worried as Camp Roberts was an Infantry and Artillery Replacement Training Center. But it all worked out pretty good. About half of the convoy were picked for the artillery and the others got the infantry, of which none seemed very pleased. I have enjoyed it all very much so far, of course, we all get pretty disgusted sometimes when we get K.P. or have to stand guard in the rain, but we just have to take it, as we know our boys over there would be tickled to death if that was all they had to worry about. Since this is an artillery Replacement Training Center, we are almost assured of a nice little boat ride before long. I had the opportunity to spend the weekend with a very nice family who lived in Kinmundy about 12 years ago, the Clyde PRESTON family. I know a lot of you folks there know them because they asked about a great number of you. Clyde is my Dad’s cousin, so of course, they knew all of my relation. His wife had the misfortune to lose her eyesight a few years ago and she certainly enjoyed talking about the old hometown. They have 3 sons serving in the Navy. One of which left just the day before I got there. They asked me to say ‘hello’ to all you folks for them. Again I want to thank you for the paper Norris. You are certainly doing a grand job by sending a paper to all the boys and girls and I know they all appreciate it as much as I do. So long for now and keep up the good work.

- James F. SECHLER was born in Cleveland, Ohio on Oct. 26, 1865 and died Feb. 29, 1944. He leaves his wife, Mary Julia SECHLER (nee PERKUHM) also 2 sisters, Mrs. Bertha WEBSTER of St. Louis, and Mrs. Mame BLOOM of White Plains, NY. Mr. SECHLER was formerly an employee of the Missouri Pacific Railroad Company for 31 years and has spent the last 12 years as a citizen of our community.

- Mr. and Mrs. Robert P. OSTERHOLTZ of Centralia have a baby boy born on Feb. 23 named Arthur Robert. The mother is the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A.S. PARRISH of this city.

- Mrs. Lyle WILLIAMS is recovering at her home from a tonsillectomy performed last Thursday in St. Anthony’s Hospital in Effingham.

- A still born baby girl was born Tuesday in the Salem Hospital to Pvt. and Mrs. Donald MILLER named Tersa Fae. Donald is somewhere in England.

- Mr. and Mrs. Calvin LANE entertained the following of their children to a birthday dinner Wednesday honoring Mr. LANE on his 77th birthday: Mr. and Mrs. Lester VANSCYOC and family, Mr. and Mrs. Burdette SHAFFER and family, Mr. and Mrs. Earle LANE and family. The other son, Cecil and family were unable to attend due to sickness.

- Pvt. and Mrs. Manuel WELSH are visiting here for a few days while Manuel is enroute from Texas to Maryland.

- Mr. and Mrs. Ben JENKINS received word recently that their son, Ralph, had arrived safely in England.

- Wilson School: Mrs. Frank KOLB and children left Thursday for their new home in Peoria where Mr. KOLB has employment.

- Miletus: Jr. TATE and Eugene HARRELL of our community entered into the service of our country last week. Jr. is in the Army at Ft. Sheridan, and Eugene is in the Navy in N.Y. Herschel KRUTSINGER and George BUTTS go to Chicago Wednesday night for examination.

- Sgt. Eldon COLCLASURE of Florida is here for a visit with his wife and baby son.

- Mr. and Mrs. W.T. WILKINSON have received word from their grandson, Junior WILKINSON, that he landed safely in England. He reported a pleasant trip over and has met a friend from his hometown, West Frankfort, Ill.

- Miss Pearl ARNOLD of Springfield, Ill. and S. Sgt. D.A. ARNOLD of Georgia are here visiting with their mother, Mrs. Agnes ARNOLD and Ruby.

- Pvt. Junior GRAY of Alabama is enjoying furlough here with his wife and parents.

- East Zion: PFC Dresdon HEADLEY of San Diego, Cal. and wife arrived home Saturday to spend furlough with home folks. Mrs. HEADLEY will remain here.

- East Zion: Mr. and Mrs. James BASSETT and daughter, Mrs. Ruth WILLIAMS, spent Sunday at the Merle JONES home.

- Meacham: Mr. and Mrs. Elmer NEAL took their son, Freddie, to Olney Hospital Saturday in the Linton Ambulance suffering with a bad appendix.

- Meadow Branch (from last week): Mr. and Mrs. Robert FRYE spent Thursday and Friday with Mr. and Mrs. Walter WARREN. They went to Louisville to spend Saturday and Sunday with his parents, then Mr. FRYE reported to Great Lakes Training Station Wednesday for basic training.

- Pleasant Grove: Lt. and Mrs. John SHAFFER of Omaha, Neb. arrived Saturday to spend a 10 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Guy SHAFFER and other relatives.

- Several of the neighbors surprised Mr. and Mrs. Roy MILLER and children by calling Tuesday night. Refreshments of sandwiches, cookies and coffee were served. All departed at a late hour saying so-long to Mr. MILLER, who left Thursday to join the Armed Forces. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde HIESTAND, Mr. and Mrs. Claude HIESTAND, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert ANDERSON and little daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Chris MEYER and daughters, Mr. and Mrs. Oran ALDERSON and daughters, and Mr. and Mrs. Pearl ROSE and son, and little granddaughter.

- Camp Ground: Guy PERRY had a bad spell with his heart again on Saturday.

- Pleasant Grove: Some from here attended the dedication services at Zion Thursday night. Then on Friday night, the Pleasant Grove members furnished the program which was also given at Zion.

March 16, 1944:

- Here’s a letter from Joseph LOVETT, S1 c, of the Coast Guards. He is located in Virginia and says: I believe it is about time that I wrote you a short note and thanked you for the paper. I receive it every week and it is certainly welcome. I like to read just what everyone is doing. Those papers are very good for morale and I hope you keep up the good work. I hear of the weather back home and wish I were there. The weather here in Virginia is nothing to brag about. We have had very mild weather the 2 years that I have spent here. It is very changeable though, almost twice as bad as Illinois. I would like to ask a personal favor of you. I would like to know where Kenneth FULFER is and his address if possible. I believe that if any man knows, that man will be you. I must sign off now and want to thank you again for sending me your paper.

- Here’s one from PFC Laverne KEEN, who is stationed up in Michigan. Here’s what Pete has to say: Guess it’s about time I had better write and thank you for the paper. I really enjoy it a lot and don’t know exactly how to thank you enough for it, but it is nice to know where all the fellows are and what’s going on around Kinmundy. It seems as if most of the boys are in England. I suppose they are getting plenty of tea and drink. Well, I have got 100 things to do and I can’t think of a one of them, but I’ll close thanking you again for the paper.

- Here’s one from Sgt. Sterling SULLIVAN, who has seen quite a bit of the old world and is now sojourning in Italy. He enclosed a copy of the famous "Stars and Stripes" which we scanned from cover to cover. He says: Sitting in my tent reading our old town paper. I find that the articles that appeal to me mostly, besides the actual news of home, are those written by my comrades in arms, stationed all over the world. I fully realize that these articles mean a great deal to the folks at home. It is with that thought in mind which urges me to relate some of my own experiences. You would be surprised to hear of the many countries in which I have received the Express. Believe me, there has been many an evening back in the dessert when my tent mates and I had nothing but this paper to read. Those were the trying days when Rommel and his infamous African Korps were knocking on the gates of Alexandria. In the past 16 months I’ve gone a long way thru Egypt, Lybia, Tunisia, Malta, Sicily, and finally here in Italy. It certainly has been interesting seeing all these famous cities like Suez, Cairo, Alexandria, Tripoli, and Tunis, just like having my history and geography lessons come to life. I’ve enclosed the Stars and Stripes in this letter for 2 reasons, one to give you a view of our Italy edition and second to proudly refer you to an article about my outfit - the famous 79th F.A. I could say a great deal about my outfit but then every solider’s own outfit is always the best. My claim is short and sweet I don’t believe there are many groups that can claim 5 stars to their campaign ribbon. However, the ribbon that I want most of all and hope to earn soon is that final "Victory Ribbon". I’d like to say a little about the job I do. I play nurse-maid to a fighter plane, otherwise known as crew chief. You would be surprised how one can get attached to a plane. Of course, without saying to the pilot, watching his take-off and then sweating out his return. If he is a few minutes late, you lose 10 years of your life worrying what has happened and then you spot him always and that thin smile creeps across your face and you are like a new man again, and so it goes day in and day out, always something new and exciting happening to help pass the time and so it will be until its all over. Again many thanks for the paper. I always look forward to receiving it.

- Here’s one from James HAMMER, SOM2 c, who is sailing the seven seas aboard the U.S.S. Heron. He says: Thought it was about time I wrote and thanked you again for the paper. Today I received my Jan. 6th issue of the paper, the first I have received for over 2 months, but I also got a letter dated July 4, so I suppose that the proceeding papers will finally catch up with me. Anyhow, I just don’t look at the date and this makes it news to me. Well, I hope someone doesn’t shoot that deer before I get back. I haven’t seen any wild deer so this would be something new to me. By the number of reports there must be more than one around, so maybe there will be quite a few before long, just like we used to read about in history books. I was glad to hear that George MILLER has been having a good time in London, and especially what he says about the fairer sex, as you call it, I think George would do alright any place as he always was a ladies man, I can truly say I sometimes envy his tactics, as I call it. I wish I could eat some of Paul’s chow. I could soon tell him if it lives up to the Navy standard or not. Probably if I did eat some of it, I would want to get transferred to his ship. I hope John JEZEK does not have to take too much mineral oil and hope Cecil can get home before long as I know how he feels. Well, Mr. VALLOW, I wish I could tell you where I am but that is out of the question, right now, so will have to leave this until later when I can sit on a bench some place and tell you the story of where I have been and what I have seen but for now I will have to close because the ship is pitching quite a bit and also I am out of things to say. Hoping this finds all in as good health as myself.

- Here’s one from Pvt. Ralph JENKINS. ‘Pug’ recently landed in merry old England and appears to like the country. He says: Thought I would drop you a few lines to let you know I am in England, and I’m hoping to get a paper soon. I haven’t got a paper now for almost a month and I certainly miss it. Well I suppose you would like to hear a little about the country of England. Well, the weather here is awful, it is damp, foggy, rainy, and once in awhile the sun shines, the policemen wear tall steel helmets, just like the pictures you have seen in history books. The people here live a hard and difficult life on account of food rationing and we soldiers are also rationed, we get 2 razor blades a week and 7 packages of cigarettes. We are living on an old English Settlement and it is a beautiful place. The English people go for flowers and shrubbery and the grass is green now and the country is beautiful. I have changed my U.S.A. currency for English currency and it is some job to keep it straight and know how much one has got. Well, Mr. VALLOW, I got to close and hope I get the paper soon so I can read the boys letters.

- Mrs. Louisa METZGER, wife of Charles METZGER, residing in the Shanghai neighborhood, died suddenly Monday from heart trouble.

- Luster LeGrand HULTS was born in Alma twp., Marion Co., Ill., on Sept. 4, 1851, and died in Manteno, Ill. on March 10, 1944. In Oct. 1874, he was married to Mary Frances SEE of Alma, and they had 4 children. He is survived by 2 daughters: Mrs. Ralph LOVELL of Manteno; and Mrs. Wilfred M. POST of Williston Park, Long Island, N.Y.; 4 grandchildren, Floyd E. LOVELL of Manteno; Mrs. Floyd BRYANT of Chicago; Cpl. T. Ralph E. LOVELL of Signal Corps, Cal.; Mrs. Helen MANN of Marissa; 2 great-grandchildren, Wm. BRYANT and Sandra MANN; a sister, Mrs. S.M. WILSON of Los Angeles, Cal.; and a brother, John HULTS of Sheridan, Wyo. Mr. HULTS was spent most of 70 years in Marion Co., Ill., but after the death of his beloved companion in 1923, he made his home with his daughter, Mrs. LOVELL. An accident happened about a month ago which rendered him helpless. The funeral was held from the Christian Church in Kinmundy with interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

- Mrs. Robert PARRISH underwent an operation for gall bladder trouble in the Salem Hospital yesterday.

- Friends and members of the O.E.S. helped Mrs. Elizabeth PARRILL of Chicago, celebrate her 72nd birthday by bringing her 72 beautiful red roses. She has been a shut-in for the past 4 years, following 10 months illness in bed. She will be remembered here by many of our older residents.

- Mrs. Chas. ROBB of Decatur is here visiting her sister, Mrs. Elizabeth ATKINS.

- Pvt. Charles MEYERS, who has been sojourning in Alaska, arrived here Monday to visit relatives.

- Mrs. Sarah MILLER, one of Kinmundy’s oldest and highly respected ladies was surprised by her children, Sunday, who came with baskets of food and enjoyed the day with her. Mrs. MILLER was 85 on Saturday. Those spending the day with Mr. and Mrs. MILLER were: Mrs. Nell WILSON of Decatur; Mrs. Herman KNECHT and daughter, Roberta; Miss Alma LANGHASS of Stanford, Ill., and Mr. Ank GRAY of this city.

- The local fire department was called out this morning to extinguish the flames from Burdette SHAFFER’s smoke-house. The building was too far gone when the alarm was given and consequently burned to the ground. Mr. SHAFFER was smoking his meat and when he left for work last night, thought his fire was out. His entire supply of meat, as well as many other things were burned.

- Mrs. Lucinda BOUSMAN, aged 90 years, who formerly resided in Kinmundy, died March 2 at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. C.L. WILLIAMS of Bothell, Wash.

- Kinmundy Lodge presented brother Curtis S. WATSON with a 50 year button.

- A Freak Hen: Chris JASPER, one of our local poultrymen, was asked to dress a nice fat hen for table use. He picked out a dandy specimen from his coops and dressed her Monday evening. In drawing the intestines he noted something a bit different from the many hundreds of chicken intestines he has seen. Upon close examination he found that this hen had 2 oviducts, more commonly called egg-bags. And upon closer examination, one could see that both these oviducts had been active. In this case, the hen was capable of laying 2 eggs each day. So, Mr. JASPER killed a very valuable hen not knowing it until it was too late.

- East Meadow Branch: Mrs. Jocie LEMAY and Mrs. Adina LEMAY and little daughter left Friday night for New Orleans, La. to visit Pvt. Clifton LEMAY.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. T.A. McCULLEY attended the funeral of Mr. Lus HULTS, Sunday.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Frank GARRETT spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. W.F. ROBB.

- East Meadow Branch: Mr. and Mrs. Bert GARRETT spent Wednesday afternoon at the W.F. ROBB home.

- Green Ridge: Truman DUGAN and son, George, spent last Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. George HEADLEY and family. George is leaving for the army soon.

- Young School: Mr. and Mrs. Virgil SEE and son attended a party at the Eura SHAFFER home on Saturday in honor of Mr. and Mrs. SHAFFER’s 10th wedding anniversary.

- East Zion: Lt. Duane WALTON of Air Corps came Saturday to spend a 10 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Adis WALTON and other relatives.

- Camp Ground: Allen EDWARDS received word that his brother, J.B. EDWARDS, had died in Tuscola.

- Mr. and Mrs. J. Fletcher COLE spent Saturday in Alma in the Lena WILLIAMS home, Cpl. Duane WILLIAMS being home on furlough.

- Pleas