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Letter to Mother is Cheerful and Optimistic The Tribune is permitted the pleasure of reproducing the following brief but very interesting letter from Lieut. Pierce Gaines to his mother. Lieut. Gaines is finding much to do on the battle front and has seen some trying times. He was slightly gassed while in action on May 1. He tells of some of his comrades being wounded and makes other interesting observations. The letter follows: American Expeditionary Force, June 2, 1918.―Dear Mother: For a little rest we are brought, and we do need it too. But outside of being tired I am feeling fine and dandy. Jim Ward (of La Ward) was slightly wounded the other day―three machine gun bullets in his leg. Moore, the boy I roomed with when I was with the machine gun company, was also slightly wounded―hit in the hand and arm by machine gun fire. A good many of my friends have been hurt, but none seriously as yet. I am sending you a clipping that may tell you something. We are having fine weather and good prospects for it to continue. I never knew it could go so long in France without a rain. It looks as though the allies have again stopped a big drive. The Germans seem to be trying to bring this war to a close―but it wont be a favorable close for them. They seem to be especially spiteful towards Americans, and they are finding that the so-called “easy” new-comers are a hard lot to deal with after all. There is nothing I can tell you. Love to all. Devotedly, Pierce.
The Matagorda
County Tribune, July 5, 1918 |
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Surgical Dressings Completed During Week Ending June 22 Parish House―Six afternoons: 31 workers; made 98 many-tailed bandages; 334 wipes, 4x4 Night Circle (Parish House)―Two evenings: 30 workers; made 408 wipes 4x4. West Circle―One afternoon: made 130 wipes 4x4. South Circle―Two afternoon: 26 workers; made 31 many-tailed bandages and 676 wipes 4x4. East Circle―Two afternoons: made 674 wipes 4x4, and 18 many-tailed bandages. Surgical Dressings Made During Week Ending June 29 Parish House―Six afternoons: 30 workers; made 27 wipes 2x2; 6 many-tailed bandages; 46 absorbent pads 12x24; 193 wipes 4x4. West Circle―Two afternoons: 10 workers; made 263 wipes 4x4. South Circle―Two afternoons: 27 workers; made 59 wipes 2x2; 429 wipes 4x4. College Circle―One afternoon: 16 workers; made 295 wipes 4x4. East Circle―Two afternoons: 47 workers; made 58 many-tailed bandages; 792 wipes 4x4. Night Circle―Two evening: 16 workers; made 6 pads; 217 wipes 4x4. Workers in Surgical Dressings for the Week Ending June 29 Mrs. M. O. Savage, twice during week; Mrs. J. S. Mayfield, once; Mrs. S. O. Eidman, six; Mrs. W. E. McSparren, five; Mrs. Edna Woode, four; Mrs. Jno. Crawford, one; Mrs. Parker one; Mrs. Wm. Walker, three; Mrs. W. D. Wilson, four; Mrs. Jas. W. Rugeley, four; Mrs. J. C. Lewis, four; Mrs. Annie Sanborn, one; Mrs. I. N. Barber, one; Mrs. E. J. Kilbride, one; Mrs. C. Guynn, three; Mrs. C. L. De St. Aubin, five; Mrs. Morgan, one; Mrs. Roy Duncan, two; Mrs. Suella Frick, two; Mrs. G. A. Wainer, two; Mrs. W. B. Ausburn, two; Miss Laura Lavine, one; Miss Ruth Cabel, one; Mrs. C. A. Hertel, one; Miss Jepson, one; Mrs. Albert Shoultz, one; Miss Larry Phillips, one; Miss Doris Phillips, one; Miss Francis Taylor, two; Miss Anita Hill, five; Miss Bernice Steinhart, two; Miss Agnes Steinhart, three; Miss Carlen Arnold, one; Miss Linnie Stone, one; Miss Tommie Woolsey, one; Miss Annie Lou Gartrell, one; Miss Corrinne Millican, one; Miss Callie Carrington, one; Miss Clara May Yeager, one; Miss Ivie Yancey, one; Miss Bertie Thompson, one; Miss Blanche Kirk, one; Miss Lela Winston, one; Miss Adelaide Selkirk, one; Miss Yetta Wigodsky, one; Miss Marian Gaines, one; Miss Merle Wainer, one; Miss Wheeler, one; Miss Carolyn Early, one; Mrs. Kiser, one; Mrs. J. R. Reynolds, two; Miss Gertrude Tillman, one; Miss Mary McLendon, one; Miss Kathryn Eidman, one; Miss Bertha Funk, one; Miss Anna Byrd Stuart, one; Miss Gertrude Truitt, two; Miss Janie Savage, one; Miss Willie McCamley, two; Miss Lowe, two; Miss Marguerite Mearns, two; Mrs. J. W. Gaines, two; Mrs. J. T. Hawkins, two; Mrs. T. H. Castleton, two; Mrs. Hugh Phillips, two; Mrs. W. S. Holman, two; Mrs. W. F. Tetts, two; Mrs. Fannie Muston, two; Mrs. C. A. Lewis, two; Mrs. W. J. Warner, two; Mrs. Florence Creech, two; Mrs. Belcher, two; Mrs. Bob Tillman, two; Mrs., Phillips, two; Mrs. Mary Tew, one; Mrs. Pat Thompson, one; Mrs. Mallard, one; Mrs. J. C. Hoffinger, two; Mrs. V. H. Sledge, one; Miss Ida Yeager, two; Mrs. Z. Payne, one; Mrs. E. Savill, two; Mrs. O. E. Keller, one; Mrs. H. Bowie, two; Mrs. J. W. White, two; Mrs. B. G. Yancey, two; Mrs. J. E. Wheeler, two; Mrs. Vanslyck, two; Mrs. M. Bailey, one; Mrs. W. E. Davant, one; Mrs. T. J. Lewis, one; Mrs. J. W. Powell, one; Mrs. R. O. Middlebrooks, one; Mrs. Jno. Guynn, two; Mrs. Stuart, one; Mrs. Truitt, two; Mrs. A. T. Ditch, one; Mrs. Jno. Branch, one.
The Matagorda County Tribune, July 5, 1918 |
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From Saturday’s Daily. The Tribune has received an interesting letter from our good friend, Dooley Franz, who is now at Paris Island. He and Everett Bond are the only two Texans there, but they are having a good time and enjoy it, although there’s no place like Texas for them. An interesting photograph was recently received by Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Keller of this city which was taken during a visit of the king and queen of England to the city of Lincoln, an interesting account of which appeared in the London Post, of April 10. Mr. Phil E. Davant, 1st lieutenant in the American service, a son-in-law of Mr. and Mrs. Keller, had been appointed one of the national honor guards which acted as escort to the royal party. Lieutenant Davant’s picture was shown in the group immediately next to their majesties, an unusual honor as the portraiture readily reveals. The wife of Lieutenant Davant, who is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Keller, is making her home in Bay City with her parents during the period of the war. From Monday’s Daily. Johnnie May Williams, who has been visiting home folks at Matagorda, passed through the city Saturday on his return to Camp Ellington. He is a member of the aero squadron and is being trained in aviation.
From Tuesday’s Daily. Corporal Merlin Vogelsang arrived home last night from Austin and will spend a few days here visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. N. M. Vogelsang.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, July 7, 1918 |
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Lieutenant Ralph M. Kelly, son of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Kelly, has achieved notable success at Rockwell Aviation Field, North Island, San Diego, California. Upon completion of his theoretical and practical training for five months Lieutenant Kelly’s work and previous experience being worthy of note, the classification board at Rockwell Field requested him to remain in America at North Island as an instructor in flying. When not occupied with his embryo birdmen he has specialized in battle formation flying, and aerial acrobatics. For six weeks he has been initiating the new men from ground work in the mysteries of flying. Lieutenant Kelly led a squadron of 14 airplanes flying in battle formation over the Decoration Day parade in San Diego and a similar feature was furnished the Los Angeles spectator at the opening day of the Red Cross drive. Lieutenant Kelly will remain in California for some time before going across to France. His experience in aerial gunnery and stunt flying has won for him assignment as “pursuit pilot” when he finally gets a chance to demonstrate his ability on the front.―Santa Cruz (Cal.) Sentinel. Lieut. Kelly is the son of Mr. Claude Kelly, secretary of the Bay City Chamber of Commerce. He was the first aviation instructor of John Purvoy Mitchell, ex-mayor of New York, who was killed in a fall from his machine Saturday. Several weeks ago Lieut. Kelly wrote his father that Mayor Mitchell was a prince of good fellows, but a “bum flyer,” and he felt considerably relieved when Mr. Mitchell was transferred. Had it not been for prompt action by Lieut. Kelly Mr. Mitchell would have wrecked a plane with himself and Lieut. Kelly early in his training.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, Friday, July 12, 1918| |
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Felix Cisneros in France Doing Well The following letter has been received by Jose Cisneros, father of Felix Cisneros, who is now with General Pershing’s Expeditionary Army in France. Felix is one of the Matagorda County boys and writes to his father in good English: June 2, 1918 Dear Father: I write to you a few lines to tell you that I am well. Louis went to the hospital two days ago with some sort of throat trouble, but he is better now and will soon be back with us. We have never suffered for anything yet and have everything we need. I know we are in France and am proud of it. When you write do so in English and tell all you know of my friends and how all of you are getting along. Do not worry yourself for us. Wait until we get back and we will show you a good time, and should we die here you will have the honor of knowing that we died for the country we recognize. But for all that you know I never lose hopes. I figure on coming back and to make you happy again. I have never heard from you since I left so write to me. I wrote Alfred (my brother) but have never heard from him. Tell him we are well and want to hear from him. Address me Co. E., 140th Infantry, A. E. F., France. Your loving son, Felix Cisneros
The
Matagorda County Tribune, July 12, 1918 |
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APPEARS IN “THE BELIEVER.” Will Cherry, former telegraph operator at local B. and M. railway station and popular young man of Bay City, advised his sister, Mrs. Allen Stinnett, of the wonderful scenes that were made with the assistance of the U. S. government in the making of “The Unbeliever,” in which the U.S. marines appeared. Will is with this division, and wrote that he was in the picture, and that it is the biggest thing he had ever heard of. This play ran three weeks at Dallas at $1 prices, and will be the attraction here at the Grand next week, Wednesday and Thursday.
The
Daily Tribune, July 20, 1918 |
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U.S.S. Geo. Wash., July 13, 1918 Dear Brother Tom, How is every thing at home now? I am O.’K., and just got back from France of course I got a little sea-sick one day but it was not half as bad as the subs., there are plenty of them laying out of the coast of France waiting for our ships. We got across with all our ships which were about 40 in all. Our ship is the flag ship, but on our way back a sub., got the U.S.S. Covington and came real close to us with a torpedo. We had several fights on our way back and one going over. Now if any one tells you that there is no subs., out in the waters you just tell him he is either crazy or a fool, for I saw two myself and we got them too. We fired about 300 shots on the trip. Oh yes I almost forgot to tell you that our coz Henry Tyler went across with us on our boat. I had a fine time talking with him. All the boys leave from here so if you know when Clarence and Bill start across just let me know, maybe I can get to see them. I saw lots of our old Co. in France, they are guards……….I can tell you lots when I see you again………..good for that. I am glad your crops are looking fine. I have got some little things from France for you to keep as I have no place for them only keep the service badge you can have all others and the pictures are real I saw them made. I have got so many letters to write, I will stop for this time and write more later. I will write to my little Nellie too. I have not heard from you people since I left until we got back yesterday. I saw a Chaplin of the Marines from the same Co., Horace is in. He said he was O.K., but they were having some real…….. Answer soon, Your brother, Robt. O. Stiles
The
Matagorda County News and New Era, Consolidated, Thursday, July
25, 1918 |
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The following Matagorda County drafted troops entrained Wednesday morning at Bay City for Camp Travis: Henri Charles Huck, Frank Edward Stallard, Harry Charles Kight, Axel Harry Johnson, William Lafayette Swindler, Henry Calvin Keith, Morris J. Wise, Jimmie Fitzmaurice, Lynn Cartwright, Allan Huddleston, Charles Burton Jones, Albert D. Rowlings, Andrew Jarrel Crist, John Geromini, Dean Ashley Derby, Grover Henry Coston, Benjamin Roe Richardson, Auther Ray Baldree, Fred Anton Malek, Joe Cox, William Henry Voss, Charlie Brown, Ral Loyd Cone, Jesse Alexander Garnett, Vallie Edward Crain, and Henry Marston. The Matagorda County News and New Era, Consolidated, Thursday, July 25, 1918
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Camp Travis, Texas, July 17th, 1918 Mr. C. C. McDaniel, Matagorda County News Dear Mc. Have been a little slow in writing, my only excuse is that I have been just a little busy. The boys from home are all in the best of health, and most all of us are very anxious to go into action across the seas. I for one am very anxious to go and am making every effort to qualify so that they will shoot me across. The Capt. has put me in the office (on his personal staff) that may hold me back for a while, I don’t want to be delayed, but take it for granted that he knows where he wants me to serve. We have transferred 18 of the boys from our Company, I can not give you their destination but will give you their names which are as follows: B. G. Clifton, Henry B. Gottschalk, Phillip L. Fields, Henry A. Klobedance, Thomas P. Hayes, Earl Middlebrook, Joseph F. McGehee, William H. Smith, Robert G. Richardson, Eusebio Villereal, Gurtique Trevino, Leonard O. Lawless, Edward A. Duffie, Berry J. Moore, Sabino B. Guerra, William D. Stringer, Fred L. Cummings and Earnest H. Williard. There are a few names of men who are not from Matagorda County will say if there are any relatives or friends who have not heard from the boys and wish to write them they may; I will be glad to forward their mail to them. This army life is making men out of all us boys believe me. Mc., I am sorry that I did not join the army when the war first began. We get far better treatment than you would expect in the army it is indeed a pleasure to know you are with a lot of good men who believe in justice to all. Army life is what a man makes it. Every man in the U.S. Army has an equal chance. Our Boys are all trying to make the best of it, and I dare say they will come out on top. We are trying to show our appreciation for the kind treatment and consideration shown us. Our officers are a fine lot of men. They are firm and strictly business yet kind and not overbearing. Any man who half way tries will get along in this army. They want a man to advance as quick as possible and will give him all the assistance he needs. With best wishes to all of my friends, I beg to remain, Very truly yours, Wm. E. Ehlert
The
Matagorda County News and New Era, Consolidated, Thursday, July
25, 1918 |
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“The Unbeliever,” the Edison super-feature, adapted from Mary Raymond Shipman Andrews’ novelette, “The Three Things,” with a cast notable because of its careful and discriminating selection, will be shown at the Grand on July 24 and 25. All of the heart-stirring, soul-racking drama of the great world war is embodied in this epical production. Authentic military atmosphere is given to “The Unbeliever” by the cooperation of the officers and men of the Sixth Battalion, United States Marine Corps, at their cantonment, Quantico, Va. Nothing more realistic than the scenes in the trenches, the charges across No Man’s Land and the hand-to-hand encounters between Marine and Boche, has been seen on any screen.
The Daily Tribune, Thursday, July 25, 1918 |
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A cablegram was received yesterday by Mrs. Jno. W. Gaines in the following language: “Am feeling fine, duty soon. Love, Pierce.” As Lieut. Gaines has not been ill and as he has been in some of the hardest fighting on the front, and the fact that he deemed it necessary to send a cablegram, the inference is that he has undoubtedly been wounded. The cablegram was sent from Nantes, France. The Matagorda County Tribune, August 2, 1918
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The following two letters taken from the Giddings News are from Horace E. Stiles, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Stiles, of this county, who is at the battle front in France: Somewhere in France, June 18, 1918. Dear Brother Tom: Well boy I am going to try and write you a few lines this eve, as my foot is not hurting me very much. The Boche artillery shrapnel bunged it up, but by the way I guess I’ll be able soon to get back at them. Believe me, we sure run them ragged. They were advancing on the French and we got into it, and you should have seen things change. We went right into them like they were kids, and took many prisoners and mowed lots of them down, while some always get out of the way. They would begin to yell “komrad.” It wasn’t anything like real trenches, it was open. I guess you have seen in the paper before now what we are doing and have done. Boy, believe me, I sure saw lots of things happen. You know what made us boys sure enough mad was when we were on our way to help the French soldiers, the roads were just full of children and old women with their carts and wagons, bringing all they could with them, leaving all their things behind. It sure got on our nerves. Just before we got into it we had all kinds of things to eat. We had to cook it ourselves, but Gosh, that was a very easy thing, and when they said we could get at the Boche we made it mighty hot for them. If we are marines every one knew what to do and we did it. Boy they had some machine guns that sure could do some shooting, but gee, we just went up and took possession of them our selves and made them prisoners. I went about 20 days without having my shoes off and not much sleep, but we didn’t think the least thing of that, as we were romping on the enemy. I sure hated to leave when I did, but couldn’t help it. I was hurt on the 13th, and am in a sure good hospital. They take such good care of us boys, and we get good eats. I also have a sure bad cold. Where I am now is sure a pretty place, hills all around. I can look out the window and see the French people working in the gardens and vineyards, and they sure are pretty. The cherries and strawberries are getting ripe now over here. Say boy, I sent you $40 May 20. I sent it through the Y.M.C.A. Have you received it yet? He told me he could cable it across and you would get it in a short time. I haven’t received any mail in a good while because I have been up here where we could not get it easy, but I got your letter with those pictures, and I thank you very much for them. They were great. Say, how is Robert? Is he still at Great Lakes? The last letter I had from him he was and said he was out of the hospital. How is everything progressing around there now? I didn’t get to finish this yesterday evening as my ink ran out of my fountain pen, and the little French newspaper boy came around with some papers and got on to reading and a boy filled it for me this morning, and am about to finish this morning, as I don’t know anything to write. My foot is getting along as well as could be expected, so boy write me some long letters and tell me how everyone is. Give my love to the folks, your brother, Horace. Private Horace E. Stiles, U. S. Marine Cors, American Force, 75th Co., 6th Reg, care of Post Master, New York. O.K.―John C. Powell, 18th. St., 126th Inf. ---------------- In a Hospital in France, June 12, 1918. Dear Sister Maud: I will try and write you a few lines today, as I am tired of reading books, and that is all I have to do as I can’t get around much. I guess mother and Tom will get their letters before you do, telling them I am all bunged up in the foot from some pieces of artillery shell. It hurt a little right after the operation, but has felt pretty good until last night it began hurting once and a while by the nerve working. But, kid, it takes us to make the Dutch look shocked and put them to the rear. I have seen many of them, especially in the last battle. I was in where we had open war fighting and we boys took them back as prisoners, and their machine guns. My, kid, but that was great sport to hear the bullets whizzing by you, and it would make us boys feel just that much more like fighting. If they happened to wound one of our boys close by where we could see it and my, we would go for them, and when we would get close to them they would all begin to yell out, “Komerad” and sometimes they have done us dirty as that is all they know to do since war began, they yell “Komerad” and when we get near them they throw hand grenades at us and some try to get away while others yell “Komerad” again. Gee, but that gets on our nerves, we can’t stand it and you can imagine what happens then―a plenty. Believe me I could tell you lots of things if I could talk with you, but you see I am over here and have to write and that is very little. I just know I have some letters at my company, but that is not here, and you know we boys never know where any company or regiment is unless he is with them. Just wait until we really do start at those Dutch, we will show them some game nothing to what we have done to them, and I hope I will return safely back home when this war is over. You need not worry about me for I am getting along all right and have some real American girl nurses to wait on us. It is a good hospital that I am in. It is a California unit and we get fed good. I hate to see them bring my eatings to my bed, but I can’t well get down the stairway to go to eat. You are always telling me of the young people around there; I guess most of the boys joined the army and the ones that have not volunteered have been drafted. You say the best of all are the many pretty girls around there, so if I was to ever come back I might get to talk to some of them―ha! ha! get me? And say, how is that Tom? Does he go with the girls yet? Was there very much fruit raised there this year? Oh! yes, when you see Oma, tell her hello and give her my best wishes. My ears are always ringing now from so many high explosive shells bursting so very close to me. Why, Sis, I have been covered in a little trench with dirt from them. I guess you think we would be scared, but, phaw, no indeed, all would laugh and say something funny, but sometimes one would get hurt. The front which I was in, the Dutch sure did hate for us to push them back out of some important woods, but we just took possession of anything we wished to. I didn’t get to be in that fight but 13 days, but my, I saw a terrible lot of things in that time. Excuse my writing and short letters. Give my love to all, your brother, Horace E. Stiles. U. S. Marine Corps, American Force, 75 Co., 6th Reg., care Post Master, New York.
The Matagorda County Tribune, August 2, 1918 |
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Is in Company With Lieut. J. C. Lewis Army a Good Training School Wharton Spectator. Lieut.-Col. W. S. Holman, from General Wolters’ headquarters at Houston, was in the city Wednesday recruiting for Capt. Milby Guynn’s infantry company, now being organized in this section. First Lieutenant J. C. Lewis of Bay City accompanied him. It is the desire of these officers to recruit thirty-five young men from Wharton and Matagorda Counties. Boys from 18 to 21 years of age are most desired; boys 17 years old can be enlisted if the consent of their father is obtained; if there is no father, the consent of the mother or guardian is sufficient. Men over 31, up to 45, are accepted if physically fit, and men in drafted classifications are also accepted. No class A1 men are accepted. The secretary of war has directed Governor W. P. Hobby to speed up the organization of this infantry unit, as their services are needed for training to replace troops already trained, which can be sent overseas. This organization now has about thirty-five men. A very choice lot of youngsters are offering for service. The first two enlistments from Bay City were Frank Carr, son of Sheriff Bert Carr, and Weldon Smith, son of Carey Smith, editor of the Matagorda County Tribune. With whisky and bad women eliminated from the army, the growing boy is really safer in the army and stands a better chance to become a man than he would in civilian life. The pay and allowances are the same as in the regular army, $30 per month for privates, $33 for first class privates; $36 for corporals, mechanics, buglers and cooks, and $48 for sergeants. It is the desire of these gentlemen, especially, to recruit cooks, mechanics and buglers. This organization is to be thoroughly trained and to see service overseas when proper training has been accomplished. The Spectator advises parents to permit their young sons to join this organization, as it offers a splendid opportunity to have their boys secure the army training and discipline, and to attend the many specialist schools now being carried on in the army.
The
Daily Tribune, Saturday, August 3, 1918 |
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The Tribune editor has received a postal card from Robert F. Baker stating his safe arrival in France. Some days ago it was rumored that “Bob” had been killed in action, but no confirmation of the report could be had. The card received today indicated that he has only just arrived there. He is a member of Co. L, 143d Infantry.
The Matagorda County Tribune,
August 9, 1918 |
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From Monday’s Daily. Ral Cone and Henry C. Huck, who were entrained July 24, 1918, write to their home paper stating that they are well pleased with army life, and especially army food, the drilling which these young men are now getting will quickly prepare them to take part in the victorious fight for worldwide democracy and freedom. Privates Cone and Huck are attached to the 29th Company, 8th Battalion, 165th Depot Brigade, Camp Travis, Texas, and claim their officers are the best in the whole brigade. They will be very glad to hear from their home friends any time. From Tuesday’s Daily. Miss Callie Metzger enjoyed a very happy surprise in an unexpected brief visit from her brother-in-law, Rev. Harvey S. Lawrence, D. D., of Peabody, Kansas, but now army camp pastor, located at El Paso. Dr. Lawrence is very efficient and very much in love with his war work among our soldier boys. He expressed himself as much pleased with what he saw of Bay City and Matagorda County. Mrs. Douglas received two letters from her son, B. I. Grant, this week. Irving writes that he had a very pleasant trip across the Atlantic and saw no submarines, spent several days in England and is now somewhere in France. Sgt. Oscar E. Kennedy has arrived safely over sea and is somewhere in France, according to letter received by Mrs. Oscar Kennedy, formerly Miss Katherine Linn. He left Camp Travis over a month ago with the 315th Field Signal Battalion.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, August 16, 1918 |
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Sends One of King George’s Autographed Greetings to American Soldiers Mrs. J. W. Spring of Van Vleck visited The Tribune yesterday and left a copy of King George’s autographed greetings which had been sent to American soldiers upon their arrival in England a short while back. This one was addressed to J. E. Ambort, a member of the 360th Infantry, A.E.F. Mr. Ambort is a son-in-law of Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Spring of Van Vleck. The greeting from King George reads: Soldiers of United States, the people of the British Isles welcome you on your way to take your stand beside the armies of many nations now fighting in the Old World the great battle for human freedom. The allies will gain new heart and spirit in your company. I wish that I could shake the hand of each one of you and bid you Godspeed on your mission. George R. I. April, 1918
The
Matagorda County Tribune, August 16, 1918 |
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Dear Father: I’ll write you a few lines today as I feel very well and can’t do anything else. The weather has been just great the last two months and you know that has given us a chance to do some fighting, and you may know we do that, for it is in us boys to make those kraut heads pay for what they have been causing all the time. We don’t intend to let them be in any rest where we are. Dad, I can say I have done a lot in the first line battle us boys have been in here in France in this open war fighting. I know how you like to read the papers and I am sure the papers tell of some of the fighting we are doing. The open is not like the trench work; it is much better as we like it better because you can see so many and that is what we like. You can guess what we do then, as that is our sport, shooting, and we always have plenty of ammunition to shoot. I had an automatic rifle and just plenty of stuff to shoot out of it, but you know if they were just a few close by I like my .45 automatic pistol because I can get a sure hit with it, not bragging on myself for shooting, but the boys in my company used to always talk about what a good shot I was with a .45, saying I was the best in the company, but I never would pay any attention to them for I never like for any one to brag on me. Some of the boys that had rifles and could shoot pretty good would get those square heads as far as 1000 yards away if they could see one and lots of the prisoners we got knew it too, believe me, for they say the Americans can sure shoot good. You should see the automatic pistols the Dutch use; they look like the luger―a long barrel, caliber about .32. We got all kinds of stuff when we made raids on them, even tranch mortars; we would go into them where they had just lots of machines gun, we call machine gun nests, and get them and the guns and use the guns sometimes as they would leave lots of ammunition with them. I could tell you lots we did but you see I can’t write and I am not there to talk to you, but perhaps some day I may be with you again―here is hoping anyway. I am still the same kid. Some great stuff to see―about twenty airplanes of both sides get into battle up in the air and you know some of them are sure to come to the ground; but, gee, you should see the square heads up in an observation balloon and see a French or American aviator flying around and all of a sudden make a dive for it; gee, you can see him drop out of it in a parachute and just about that time the balloon will be all in a flame. I have seen a good many things far away good as I have a pair of field glasses of my own and they come in handy sometimes. But, by the way, I just got to stay in the fight for 13 days, that is in the open war real fighting. In the real trenches we didn’t have much fighting; we were to be relieved in a day or so and by the way there were some pieces of an artillery shell hit me in the foot and that put me out of the game; but gee, I hated it. I didn’t think my foot was hurt. The hospital chief and I argued for a while; I nearly knew there were some still in my foot but I wanted to stay there, but it began to hurt a little and I couldn’t hardly put my foot to the ground. He said you will have to go to the hospital. When I first came up he said, “Hello there Stiles, did they hurt you? What am I going to do now when we are out and I need a haircut?” I said, “Don’t know.” He used to live at Galveston. So I came back to the hospital and they used an X-ray to see if there were any pieces in my foot yet, and yes, to be sure―I forget as I could not see every one, but there were something like four or five pieces; so then I was operated on and it is getting along all right now, but I can’t talk aloud, just a whisper is as loud as I can talk, as I got some of that mustard gas, for they were sure sending it over, but they will remember our artillery sent them three or four times as much. It doesn’t seem to hurt me; I am in a good hospital and well taken care of; in a place where there are mountains all around; sure is a pretty place; and a good town. I have not seen Jim Brummett in a good while; he is with the machine gun company. I saw in the paper where Texas did go dry of liquor; that was good. Say, do you hear from Robert? I know I have mail somewhere, but you see it has been a good while since I got any as I was up in the fighting and didn’t get any there and was sent to a hospital and still that will take time. He may be over here by now for all I know, because he has had all his training at the Great Lakes. Say, us boys are going to do our part over here by fighting and I know the people over there are doing their part by raising food to feed us and sending all such stuff as is needed by us. I once wrote and said all the French lived in small villages; well, in some places I have seen the first large farm houses. I guess I had better stop for this time as I don’t know anything to write. Hoping to hear from you some time. Give my love to all. Your loving son. Horace.
The Matagorda
County Tribune, August 16, 1918 |
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Is In France and Says Germans Not So Much After All Mrs. A. E. Stinnett has received the following very interesting letter from her brother, Will Cherry, who is in France with the marines. Will has been in all of the recent hard fighting: Somewhere in France, July 26, 1918. Dearest Sister: This is my first opportunity to write since our fighting in which you have no doubt read about in the papers, since which time my unit has taken part in some of the hard fighting you have been reading about lately, and succeeded in driving the enemy back about six miles, taking one strong position after another, including several villages and capturing a number of their large guns, mortars, machine guns and supplies of all kinds with many prisoners. We spent the night before the attack in a forest very close behind the lines, using mother earth for a bed, the only bed we had slept on for several weeks until last night. At daybreak the order was passed to make combat packs which we did and started out for the firing. Every man knew what was before him but not a man weakened. They marched along with a determined look on their faces, whistling or humming some familiar tune. As we advanced out of the forest into an open wheat field one could see wave after wave of O. D. with fixed bayonets glittering in the sun, tanks working back and forth in advance riding down machine guns, and airplanes sweeping back and forth overhead. It was a bright and beautiful day; not a cloud in the sky, but small puffs of smoke from bursting shells could be seen rising heavenward and one knew that some of his comrades were making the supreme sacrifice for the country we all love. Occasionally we would see a tank go up in smoke when a boche shell would hit true or some boche plane come up only to be challenged for a fight by our planes. They would maneuver around for a while with machine guns working very rapidly and a plane would catch on fire and plunge to the earth. Sometimes it would be a boche and sometimes it would be one of ours. It was a sight, but a sight that one does not care to see often. We were opposed by the crown prince’s troops which is considered as some of Germany’s best, but had not advanced far before they could be seen going to the rear “double time,” and most of them managed to keep plenty distance between themselves and those glittering bayonets of ours. Every Yankee that has been in battle against the boche knows that they are overrated as a brave fighter and as soon as Uncle Sam gets enough of his boys over here we will make them hard to catch. I feel like a veteran now, having been several months in the trenches with large bomb-proof and gas-proof dugouts and several months in what is nothing more than open warfare with only the little hole we dig with our entrenching tools to protect us from artillery fire. You are no doubt wondering why I have not written you of some of my experiences on the line sooner. The reason is I did not want to cause you and mother any unnecessary worry, but since the papers have given an account of the marines fighting there is no use of me not writing about it. Will try and write often now, as it will probably be a long time before we go up again. Kiss dear old mother and the kids for me. With lots of love, your bud, Pvt. Wm. R. Cherry, 97th Co., 6 Reg. U.S.M.C., Am. Ex. Force
The
Daily Tribune, August 21, 1918 |
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John Gottschalk is leaving today for Camp Travis. This makes 31 white boys called from Matagorda, which very near exhausts the 1917 class.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, August 30, 1918 |
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J. A. Garnett of Midfield, who was entrained July 24 for Camp Travis, is attached to the 29th Co., 8th Tr. Bn., 165th D. B., states that he was surprised to find how well the soldiers of Uncle Sam were housed and fed. Private Garnett hopes to go over the top with the 29th Company because he thinks he has the best officers that can be found anywhere. Also Camp Travis is to his notion the best camp in the country. The Matagorda County Tribune, August 30, 1918
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Camp Travis, Texas, Aug 24, 1918. The Daily Tribune, Bay City, Texas. Dear Mr. Smith: I am writing you a letter on Camp Travis life so you and our friends at home can see how we are getting along and how we are progressing. I like the army fine, for it is the best training a young man can ever get. We get up every morning, rain or shine, at 5:45 and stand reveille to see that every one is here and well. Then we are dismissed and fall out for breakfast. We get an abundant supply of good eats all of which is very well cooked. After breakfast we clean up our persons and bunks for inspection, after which we drill from 7 o’clock until 11:45. The drills and exercises were pretty hard for me at first and I was quite awkward, but every muscle in our bodies are exercised and you would be surprised to see how quickly we begin to develop. There is a period of physical drill which I would not miss for anything―to be sure we do not miss any―for they strengthen our muscles and make us hold our bodies erect, like a soldier should do. In the afternoon we usually play games of all sorts or they read to us on guard duty or some phase of the war. One has to be well up in lots of things, and not merely know how to drill, to be a good soldier. At first, I said I did not like the place, but I am quite fond of it now, and don’t think I would want to go back now if I could. I hear the ones still at home are having a hard time trying to explain why they are not in the army helping our Uncle Sam fight for our country. After I had been here a week, they put me on the company permanent personnel, and I will soon be a corporal. I am now drilling the new boys as they come in, and we will all be here, I guess, until the new division is formed and we will probably be a part of it, the 18th. There are certainly a lot of men here from all over the country, but most of them remain here only a few weeks for this is a depot brigade, and are then sent to another camp where they are made a part of a division, which will soon go across. The camps are kept as clean as possible, and, believe me, that is some clean, for not a piece of paper, cigarette, match stick, etc., can be found anywhere. The barracks are scrubbed every day; but the kitchen and dining room floors and tables are scrubbed and scoured three times a day. Not only are the tables clean but also the food which goes on them. We get lots of good things to eat, such as roast beef and pork, sweet and Irish potatoes, corn, beans, eggs, etc. Last Sunday’s dinner was exactly the following: Fried chicken in abundance, creamed potatoes, hot buns, carrots, lettuce and fruit salad, pie, cake and ice-cream. I got four helpings of the later, believe me, a soldier does not fail to get his capacity filled. I have gained 10 pounds since I came here. Nearly all the men who came with me from Matagorda County have been transferred to other camps. Carl Nolte was sent to an officer’s camp. J. N. Crawford of Palacios is going to the field artillery officer’s camp in Kentucky this week. There are a large number of Y.M.C.A. buildings here, and we certainly know how to appreciate them. They furnish us paper and envelopes free, and a soldier can go there for recreation and amusement, all of which is good and clean. Lectures and picture shows and other things of the like. I guess this will be all for this time but some time later I will write you on some other phases of army life. Very sincerely yours, John W. Hill P.S.―Tell all the slackers there, if our country is so disgraced as to have any, not to be afraid to get into the service for it will make them real men.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, August 30, 1918 |
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Rugeley Serrill of Park Place training camp and Stewart Burkhart of Ellington Field spend Sunday at home here. Letters received Monday from Pierce Hamilton, John May and Darwin Williams, who had sailed for foreign shores, from an Atlantic port, saying their ship was there for repairs and that they were well and happy. Lieut. Drexal landed here in his own private machine with an accompanying airplane and three companions Saturday afternoon from San Leon, viz. Adjutant Leonard and Lieutenants Parson and Martin. They were looking over the grounds selected for a bi-plane base and bombing station, stating they found this the most desirable location along the coast after going over the territory carefully from San Leon to Corpus. They further advised that a committee would be here from Washington, D.C., in a few days to look the field over, etc. They also affirmed that if the base was established it would be not only for the duration of the war but permanently. They remained here until Monday afternoon enjoying themselves in various ways with friends, after which they flew away.
The Matagorda County Tribune,
September 6, 1918 |
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Mrs. John W. Gaines received a telegram yesterday from Washington informing her that her son, Lieut. J. P. Gaines, has been missing in action since July 20. There is some error in this report, and Mr. Gaines is now investigating it. Pierce was wounded in action on July 20, and was taken to the base hospital at Nantes on July 23. On August 10 he was discharged from the hospital and returned to his company. Later than that date his parents have received letters and one cablegram from him. Only last week the writer received a card from Lieut. Gaines stating: “Just a word from a far distant friend. Am alive and feeling fine.” This card was posted at Nantes, France. From these evidences it is apparent that some error has been committed, either ignorantly or through the careless mixing of dates. As Mr. Gaines took the matter up immediately with Senator Sheppard, some light will be thrown on it within the next day or two. The telegram read: “Extremely sorry to inform you that your son, Lieut. J. P. Gaines is officially reported as missing in action July 20. Will let you hear further as soon as definite information can be had.”
The Matagorda County Tribune,
September 6, 1918 |
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Immense Throng Attended Patriotic Rally The second community song service was held under favorable conditions on the court house lawn last night. The platform was gailly bedecked with flags and electric lights were strung above the speakers’ and singers’ stands. Promptly at 8:30 Edwin Zedler sounded the assembly call and quarter of an hour later the program began with the vast throng singing The Star-Spangled Banner. Supt. B. R. Hibbetts presided. Rev. J. P. Gilliam delivered the invocation. Supt. W. F. Pack made honor mention of the 675 Matagorda County boys now enrolled for war. A touching reference was made to the six gold stars which stand for those who have given their lives. A special mention of Lieut. Phil Davant, 158th Aero Squadron, one of the survivors from the Tuscania, was cited. A photograph just received shows him as honor guard to the king and queen of England. Also of Pierce Gaines, who was gassed a few months ago and twice wounded, but is again in front line. Also of Henry Walters, who was in the British campaign which resulted in the capture of Jerusalm and the conquest of Palestine. He was once buried alive under six feet of ground caused by explosion of a shell, and is now with the Scotch Rifles near Soisons. Another pleasant feature of the evening was the decoration of Robert Matchett and Edward Shoultz, who were awarded Boy Scout medals for work done in the liberty loan drive. Dr. C. W. Kelly acting scout commissioner made the presentation. The music of the evening was of the usual high order of excellence. The solos by Mrs. W. H. Stinnett and Miss Woolsey were heartily applauded. Several splendid numbers were sung by a liberty chorus of fifty voices. Mrs. E. H. Highly, Miss June Lockwood, Mrs. W. H. Stinnett and Mrs. M. J. Beckman sang the solo parts. The accompanists, Miss Pauline Huebner and Mrs. Geo. Serrill, contributed much to the success of the singing. Prof. A. W. Birdwell of the Southwest Texas State Normal and Mr. F. R. Senor, representing the treasury department in the W.S.S. campaign, both delivered short addresses. Dr. J. C. Muerman, U. S. bureau of education, contributed one of the finest features of the program in his talk on the “Flag and Its Meaning.” He was continually applauded and at the close of his address the entire audience arose and repeated after him the formula of allegience and gave united salute to the flag. The people joined heartily in the singing of the national songs. After the singing of America the benediction was pronounced by Rev. Storey. Dr. Kelly announced that in all likelihood the next program of the liberty chorus would be in the nature of a “Harvest Home Festival,” to be held in the Opera House about Thanksgiving.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, September 6, 1918 |
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Wired Parents His Safe Arrival in New York Cited for bravery on the battlefield in France and granted an extensive furlough that he might visit his parents, Lieut. J. P. (Pierce) Gaines wired his safe arrival in New York this morning. Yesterday’s official casualty list published in State papers had Lieut. Gaines among those reported missing in action. Instead of that, he is now on his way home on a much deserved furlough after some terrible battle experiences at the front in which he was wounded, and where he was compelled to take a conspicuous part after seeing his major and captain both killed. On July 20, Lieut. Gaines was wounded after having led his company into and through action. He was sent to the base hospital at Nantes and from there wrote home to parents and friends, telling them as much of the story as he could. Later on Mr. and Mrs. Gaines received an official telegram informing them that their son had been reported missing in action on July 20. On August 12 he wrote his mother that he was well and able to be back at the front, and now, having been cited for bravery, he is on his way home. The report of yesterday that he is missing in action emanates, no doubt, from the former official report, and is an error.
The
Daily Tribune, September 13, 1918 |
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These two fine looking young men [pictures in paper] are sons of J. F. Williams of Matagorda. They are overseas doing radio work with an aero squadron from Ellington field, and in letters home they say they like the life of the army. They are both skilled telegraphers and hope, in their “line,” to be of material assistance in winning the war. John May took a special radio course at Austin and Darwin was formerly agent for the Santa Fe at Matagorda.―Courtesy Houston Post.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, September 20, 1918 |
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Thinks War a Question of Months Not Years The following interesting letter has been received by Mrs. Fred Carlton from her brother, Capt. R. R. Lewis, now in France: Co. A, 132nd Machine Gun Battalion, American Expeditionary Forces. September 2, 1918 Mrs. Fred Carlton, Bay City, Texas Dear Emma, I received your most welcome letter some few days ago and was very glad indeed to hear from you and to know that all of the folks understood and appreciated my motive in answering the call of the hour. We are somewhere in France, busy with our intensified training, getting ready for the time that we will be called up to go upon the firing line, however, I do not think this will take place before spring, and from the reports coming in now about our advances on the western front, and, which you have more in detail than we are able to get here, indicates to my mind that the duration of the war is now months not years and possibly the end will come by Christmas, which would be welcome by the entire world. We had a wonderful trip across, the ocean quiet, and the water was as placid as the Palacios Bay. I was not seasick at all, uncomfortable for a couple of days, and after that I enjoyed the trip very much. The trip over had its excitement and thrills, some of which were exciting and thrilling even though one or two of them were dangerous. We landed at St. Nazaire, France, which is a beautiful place, and the country the most picturesque I have ever seen and after five days of rest we took up our journey to our present training area and on the way from St. Nazaire the country looked like some picture, and looking over the country that we came through one would not imagine that you were in a country that had been through four years of war and was entering upon its fifth. Of course the French people were strange to us at first, to say the least for their ways are not our ways, and I see amusing incidents every day that are quite interesting. Coming up to our training area I was fortunate enough to see the Cathedral at Sens, France, which was started in 1428. This is the next largest cathedral to that of Rheims, in the world, and as I stood and looked at it in all of its grandeur I could not help but wish that Selma, you and the rest of the folks could see it, and I saw a carving carved on one of the walls of a man’s head, that was carved in 1492 when the news reached France that Columbus had discovered America and the people had assembled to rejoice over the discovery of the New World. We are all in fine spirits and good health and are willing to do our bit anywhere they may send us, but nevertheless all of us long for the day to come when peace will come and those of us who have been fortunate enough to escape from the tumult of the strife can return to the greatest country and populated by the greatest people under the sun. I have heard of lots getting hungry for something to eat, some place to go, but I think that if you would ask every man in our training area what he would most desire, he would say, “Some American woman who can speak English.” We see nothing but old men, old women and children over here so you can tell all of the young girls that their sweethearts are safe from the attractions of the beautiful French women, because they are not here. With love and kisses to each and all of you. I am, affectionately yours. Richard R. Lewis, Capt. 132nd Machine Gun, Bn., A.E.F.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, September 27, 1918 |
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Somewhere in France, Sept. 1, 1918 Mrs. W. D. Culver, Bay City, Texas, U.S.A. My dearest little Mother: Your letter came a few days ago and you will never know just how glad I was to hear from you all―each and every one of you. Wish I could be home with you for a little while this pretty Sabbath morning―and have a good long chat with you―I could tell you lots. Wonder what you are doing―I suppose the girls have gone to Sunday School. Dad is out looking at the crops and you, as usual, are getting dinner. Gee, if I could only be there to eat dinner with you! Sure would seem good to get my No. 11’s under mamma’s table once more. We have no kick coming about our food―as they feed us well. We had steak and brown gravy, bread and coffee for breakfast. There is a lot of us here attending the Intelligence School, and I like it much better than drilling with the company. There is an old lady living in a big fine home across the street from us and yesterday evening she invited a good looking girl and myself over to the house. She has a lovely piano and I sure enjoyed playing the little old pieces that I knew. The said young lady said, “Good,” when I played so I guess it was all right. We could have a good time here if we could only talk French. I do not think Mrs. Smith need be worried about Willie. He has, perhaps, neglected to write or perhaps the letter was missent. The goys are all fat and saucy over here. We had a lecture by a British officer yesterday morning and he said we had the Germans going back with their tails tucked―Sounded good to me. We are going to make them keep their tails tucked, too. We are to have a concert given this evening by two A-m-e-r-i-c-a-n girls―sure sounds good to me as I have not seen an A. girl since I have been here. Well, I guess we will attend that concert. One of the boys just announced that there would be Sunday School down the street―think I will go. No, I do not think that dad looks as old as that picture―but it is good and I am sure proud of it. The one of Lillie and Willie is fine. L. is getting to be quite a young lady. How many fellows has she? One of the boys and myself went down and heard a good sermon by one of the boys―just a private―and I enjoyed hearing him, as it was the first religious talk I had heard in a long time. Also took in the concert this evening. Two New York ladies entertained with songs and recitations. They were fine and it sure seemed good to see an American woman again. I received two more letters this evening―one from May Boyle and one from Dollie Dear. Fifteen letters I have received since I came over here―not so bad―and, believe me, we are sure glad to get mail from the good old U.S.A. Today I bought some grapes and was eating them (and there is a kind of bee here that is into everything when you are eating)―well, just as I put a grape into my mouth a bee lit on it―and I captured him; he proceeded to sit down on my lip in a manner that gave me a spitting sensation, consequently, I have a swollen lip and jaw. The young lady next door had her mother give me some vinegar to rub on it; another good old lady made me bathe my jaw with ammonia―the boys sure hurrahed me about it. We have some great times over here. So far I have enjoyed life in France, and have had the best of health, so you see you need not worry aout me. I must write to old Vince; would sure like to see him. I only learned his address the other day when I heard from Beulah. Now, listen, mamma, this letter is to you all. I did not have time to answer each letter―will try to later. With love and best wishes to all―and the neighbors. I am, your son, Pvt. W. W. Culver, Co. 143rd Inf., A. P.O. 728, A.E.F.
The
Matagorda County Tribune, September 27, 1918 |
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Copyright 2011 -
Present by Various Newspapers |
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| Created Sep. 5, 2011 |
Updated Sep. 5, 2011 |