World War I Diary

The following is a diary of Howard Charles Weting of his experiences in World War I. It was written concurrent with events and copied in longhand on the pages of a 1971 page-a-day calendar in 1969-73. I have corrected his spelling in most cases, changed the punctuation to make the prose easier to understand, written out words he abbreviated and corrected obvious errors (such as omitted words or dates that he copied wrong). As to his misspellings, he usually wrote bot instead of bought. (Parenthetical comments are his.) [bracketed comments are mine.]  Here it is:

I enlisted in an ambulance company which was formed from men from Jackson, Detroit and Romeo, Michigan in September 1917. We left Romeo the first part of October 1917 and went to Camp Meade, Maryland and attached to the 79th Division. We trained here until July 1918. I had one five-day leave during this time which I spent at home. Most of it was on trains going and coming. I had some weekend passes, which I spent in Washington with a friend, Homer Haire.

July 8, 1918

Left Camp Meade 5 p.m. Monday. Took the train about 6 p.m. Passed through Baltimore and Philadelphia and arrived at Newark (I think, anyway just across from New York) about 1 a.m. Tuesday. Sleep on the train till 6 a.m. Left at 7 a.m. and got on the Pennsylvania Railroad ferry and went to the Navy Yard. Got on the transport at that place, which is Brooklyn. Got on the ship around noon. Had a little dinner (supposed to be). I spent most of the p.m. looking over the ship, which is all very interesting. (I can say now that the name of this ship was Lutetia. Used to be a French passenger and freight.)

Wednesday, July 10, 1918

About 2:30 p.m. a tug towed us out a way and we put out to sea. In the evening a shower came up but didn't rain so very much. Saw the most beautiful rainbow I ever remember. Looked like a complete circle appearing to come right up to the ship on the surface of the water. For a few minutes there were two rainbows. Time was set back an hour this evening. Toward evening we sighted a dirigible aeroplane flying quite low toward the states. We rode on the Hudson River when going from the railroad station to the transport, went by the Statue of Liberty, which is at the entrance of New York harbor and is quite a sight. While we were on the ship waiting to get loaded, countless ships and tugs were going back and forth continually. I turned in about 9 p.m. and sleep like a log. A few were a trifle sick. Just nine months ago I landed in Camp Meade.

Thursday, July 11, 1918

I got up about 6 a.m. this morning and felt fine. The sea is real calm. More quiet than I thought it would ever get. There are a number of other transports and destroyers in this convoy. It is cloudy and hazy today. About 11 a.m. we saw a number of schools of fish, some of them quite large. 

They say there were porpoises. Once I saw a couple of these come right up close the ship. Soon after dinner I had the privilege of seeing a whale. First I've ever saw. The nearest he got to the ship was about 10 rods. Saw him blow up spray in the air a few times.

At 4 p.m. we had a little instruction in using the life belt. After supper a little excitement took place for it was reported that a sub had been sighted. Anyhow, the ships did a little changing about. 

Am finishing this in the evening; will soon be dark now. No lights are allowed on board at all except below where they cannot be seen by a hostile ship. So in our sleeping quarters we have no light at all. The sea still continues calm. Of course, swells keep rising and falling continually. The ship rises and falls a little also a little rolling motion but not as much as I thought, for one would not know he were traveling forward if it were not for this motion. I suppose if some stationary object such as land were in sight the ship would appear to move faster.

Friday, July 12, 1918

This is our second day out at sea and it is a bit rougher. The ship rolls more than it did but not near as much as a smaller ship would. When we walk on the deck today one cannot walk very steady. I might say how it is a French ship and manned by a French crew, part of which didn't make a very good impression with me in regard to sanitation. Especially with the food; the method in which they handle it and cook it, etc.  Made some a lot sicker than the water. Our cook told us this p.m. that we would have a good meal for supper as the French cook had taken a bath in the large kettle they use for cooking the stew.

Haven't been what they call sea sick yet. In fact, it has been fun so far. I'll say right here though there is no place like the dear old U.S., even without having seen the other side yet. The name of this ship is Lutetia, and it is one of the largest in this convoy. It is around 600 feet long and about 80 feet wide. For one who has never been on a large ship, it is hard for one to realize the size of it without seeing it.

This is the first time this ship has been used for the transportation of soldiers. Our company was very fortunate in being quartered in the second from the top deck, same as first class passengers. But, of course, we are crowded in quite close.

It is quite comfortable, but nothing like we had in Camp Meade. Was a real home there compared to this. About the only interesting thing I've seen so far today is a few flying fish. And believe me, they are swift as a swallow. Has been cloudy and rainy all day. Besides the six or eight other ships, all one can see is water and clouds. 

Evening now and the sea is calm as ever again. Atmosphere is quite clear, too. Clearest it has been since we've been out. One can see for miles and miles. The curve of the surface of the water shows very plain. It is hard to describe with words the grandeur of it all without seeing it with your own eyes.

This p.m. we sighted seven more ships in our rear, could just distinguish them as objects at first, could see the smoke, too. Now this evening they show up quite plain, and I think most of them are transports. That makes 15 ships in all in this bunch going across. I've heard from quite authentic authority that we have been in the Gulf Stream today. One indication given was that vegetation has been in the water all day and how it has been quite warm all day, warm for being on the water.

Saturday, July 13, 1918

All was quiet today. Sea was just a little rougher this morning than last evening. Some say that we had a little wind during the night and the ship rolled about more or less, but it was news to me as I sleep without waking till morning.

Only once we were awakened when a sergeant of one of the other companies yelled "Everybody wake up" sometime during the night. Made some of the fellows rather sore. He wanted to assign the fellows of his company to certain life boats and rafts. We thought it a rather crazy idea doing it at midnight and none of the company had any idea of where they were. 

We have only seen ten ships today. I suppose the rest are somewhere in the vicinity. I might say here all are camouflaged in color. They look rather queer painted up that way, but it certainly helps considerable to deceive, especially in late evening and early a.m., which is the sub's best time for work. Their chance though is getting less and less every day. If the Kaiser could see this bunch I believe he'd say, "They're beating me at my own game," which we must do and are doing. 

Am writing this in the evening. Just now one of the other transports is a bit less than a half mile from this ship, can see the soldiers on deck real plain. Have seen a lot of flying fish today, also a few porpoises. Is quite interesting to watch the flying fish. They fly just a few inches above the water and dive in and out.

We had a few more instructions today in regard to life belts and the certain life boat we should go to in case of emergency. I spent the rest of the day watching the sea, reading a little and sleeping. We have no lights at all, so when night falls all is in darkness. It has been rather cloudy and hazy all day and quite warm for being on the water.

Sunday, July 14, 1918

All conditions same as Saturday. Was quite warm all day, sun shone all day but at the horizon it was very hazy. I sat in the stern of ship till 10 a.m. watching the water and ships in our rear.

In the meantime they detailed me for "Lookout" to be on duty from 9 to 10. They couldn't find me, so consequently didn't have that hour to watch, but was on from 11 to 12 o'clock. Have to watch a given surface for sub or any other suspicious looking object. I'm to go again at 9 this evening.

This p.m. I read over the C.S. lesson sermon for today. Lay down a while and then started a letter to mother. First day they have given out writing paper at the YMCA headquarters. A number of others also made use of it. They have also given out some books for the fellows to read, which surely helps very much to break the monotony of this trip. This is our fourth day out, and it is getting a little monotonous, for all you can see besides the other transports is water and sky just as far as they eye can see. 

Had a fairly good dinner today. Was the cleanest meal we've had so far on this trip but it was bum again tonight.

Monday, July 15, 1918

Some change in the weather today, also sea. Is quite chilly tonight, quite a stiff breeze blowing from the northeast, and the sea is a bit rough, roughest it has been on the trip. Some of the swells and waves are as high as six to eight feet. About a dozen ships have been around us all day. Our ship rolls and pitches quite a bit, enough to bother one to walk on the deck. I have just been down at the rear end, and it is worse there than where we are quartered.

We had a couple calls to "abandon ship" today, which is all the drill or instruction we had. 

I was on duty as lookout two hours this a.m. This p.m. I wrote to Hazel. Got a good freshwater wash and passed the rest of the p.m. in watching the sea and taking a little nap.

Am sitting on the deck now, too chilly out here without a coat. Have to go on lookout at 9 again. Feed still continues bum. Believe me I'd give a lot to sit at the table at home tonight and bang my teeth in - even a piece of homemade bread and butter and a piece of cake or pie.

I mentioned a couple days back an incident, but it actually happened today. Our cook, Gloomy Harris, said he saw the French crew taking a bath in one of the cooking kettles, so we should have a good meal tonight. Can you imagine such? I'll say though that the slop tastes that way sometimes. We used to kick some back in Camp Meade, but that was just like mother made side of this stuff. Everybody's hoping we strike land soon - looking forward to better feed.

Tuesday, July 16, 1918

Sea has been quite rough all day and a steady wind blowing from the northeast all day. There are a number of white caps on the sea, but it consists mostly of huge swells. The ship rolls and pitches considerable and bothers a person more or less to walk on deck. Feed still continues bum and a lot of fellows seasick today. But the feed is more to blame than anything.

I missed my first meal on the trip today and wish I'd missed two. At two boiled eggs and a piece of bread for breakfast and could taste them more all day. Am still on lookout, a hard duty and guess I'll have it the rest of the trip. After my first hour this a.m. I went to the rear of the ship and tried to feed the eggs to the fish, but didn't seem to be able to.

I finished my shift at noon, didn't eat any lunch - just took one look at it and had plenty so crawled in my bunk and spent the p.m. there. Guess I sleep part of the time. Had a real banana for supper tonight. If ever one tasted good, that one did. I offered another fellow 25 cents for his but couldn't buy it. Know of one fellow who sold his for 10 cents. I ate a few bites of bread (It's a rather poor imitation) and a couple spoons of macaroni and carrot and a little tea. Feeling a lot better tonight again. Since we are fed this way, the fellows are beginning to loose their spirit a little. This a.m. I saw a sea gull and a swallow. Saw another gull this p.m. Also saw a large sea turtle toward evening. Am going to my bunk now and get a little rest before going on duty, for my post is right where I have to stand and face the wind and occasional spray as it is thrown quite high sometimes.

Wednesday, July 17, 1918

This makes our seventh day of sailing and still no land in sight, but we saw a few gulls and toward evening we sighted a sail boat to the north of us. Is out of sight now again. Could just see a little of the mast and then gradually more and more of it and then gradually disappeared again. It is real clear and quite chilly this evening.

I did something last evening that I never did before; ate a real lemon and believe me it tasted as good or better than any orange I ever ate. A few of the fellows got some from the crew some way for 10 cents a piece and glad to get them at that price. I got one and a half today. Had some sugar with it, which I had in my containment can from Camp Meade. Have one lemon to split with one of the boys in the morning. We had a little pork sausage this morning and this noon a few real American beans and believe me they tasted good.

After dinner I lay down a couple hours and then wrote a letter to my sister Laura. 

It has been rumored that we are in the danger zone. This p.m. going down the stairway at the rear of the ship I took one beautiful fall, never touched the last two steps; was nearly down when the ship gave a lurch and I landed flat on the floor. Can hardly see to write now so much. Ring off for today.

Thursday, July 18, 1918

Has been a fine day today and is beginning to warm up a little. The sea is getting real calm again, like it was off the U.S. coast. We think it is an indication that we are not so very far from land. None of us have the slightest idea where we are as the naval officers will give no information to that effect at all. Just had a little fun with the fellows as one said he saw land in the distance; false report I guess.

Saw a few more gulls today. We had a pretty good supper tonight; best meal we had on the trip. As some of them said, it saved their life. Know I feel like a new fellow. Had creamed potatoes, corned beef, lettuce and soup. It certainly was good, but wish I could have got again as much.

The sun is just setting and it is beautiful, but it is more like October weather. I sleep most all p.m.

We just had an abandon ship call. Hadn't no more than got dismissed from this one and everyone was sitting down reading, Etc. I just started to write again when they sprung another. Two short blasts of the whistle is the signal. On hearing this, each one has to grab his life belt, which he has with him wherever he goes, and beat it to the lifeboat or raft he is assigned to. I'm assigned to one of the life boats. There are 57 of us assigned to this boat including our captain, of course. All hope we do not have to use them and I don't think we will.

Friday, July 19, 1918

Will jot down a little this morning as I've just finished yesterday's account. Got too dark last evening after those calls. Sighted a few destroyers coming from the east this morning to meet us. They are with us now. The U.S. battleship turned and went back. I suppose it will bring up the rear. The sea is very calm and it is a little bit warmer.

It's evening now and still no land in sight, but we are feeling a little better and it has put new life in the fellows. Was a downright shame the way they were feeding us when they have plenty of decent food on board. I heard from good authority that there were 24 tons of beef on board, and I don't doubt it. 

We saw a whale this morning. Also saw a number of porpoises today. 

This noon it rained a little and got quite foggy. Lasted about an hour when it cleared off. Just had another fog cloud but has passed on. It is quite damp and chilly this evening. Our captain read a few rules, etc. pertaining to the American Expeditionary Forces, also what and what not we can write, which is very little outside of telling you are well, etc.

Saturday, July 20, 1918

This is the end of the tenth day of sailing and as yet no land to be seen. But some of the crew say we'll land tomorrow. Here's hoping it proves true. Sea has been a little rough today. Last night was a rather wild night, wind and rain. There is a deck above my post (guard), so was fortunate in having a little protection from the rain.

A couple of the fellows succeeded in buying some fruit off the crew last eve. I got three peaches and two plums for 35 cents and believe me they sure tasted good. Getting fed better than we were, too. Guess getting used to it has a little to do with it.

Nothing out of ordinary took place today. I sleep a couple hours this p.m. About 4:30 we had an abandon ship call. We were told by one of our lieutenants this eve that we will reach the port of Brest, France sometime tonight.

Sunday, July 21, 1918

We sighted land "France" about 1 this morning but I didn't get up till 5:30 as I was tired from guard duty. But when I got up and looked out I wished I'd got up at 4. It was certainly a beautiful and welcome sight when I first saw it as we were in the harbor then. One cannot express with words the grandeur of it. We landed at Brest, the most northwest part of France.

One of the interesting things we saw from the ship was an old castle which was used by Napoleon for a fort and prison. We were ordered to roll our packs after breakfast. Shortly after breakfast we had to set our time ahead a little over two hours. Some jump.

We were on the ship Lutetia almost 12 days to the hour and believe me it did seem good to put your feet on real soil again.

We had dinner on the ship about 12:00 and right after that we got on a small steamer and landed.

The French people seemed glad to see us come and it is really a pitiable sight to see some of them, especially the children.

Things and customs of the people look different than in U.S. In a good many ways they are a hundred years behind America. As yet I haven't seen a wooden frame house or barn. All stone work. It is a loam soil in this part and looks to be very fertile. The fields are all very small, about 2-4 acres in each and are divided with earth fences with briers of some kind growing on them. The way land is so precious it seems to me that it might better be leveled down and some crop crown on it. From what I've seen so far give me the U.S. in every respect to live in. It's the Best Country on earth. From where we landed we marched about three miles to the place where we camped, are in our pup tents. Most of us expected to get in barracks or squad  tents, so when we reached here things didn't look as encouraging as they might. Nothing to eat in sight either. But we finally got straightened about and pitched our tents. Some went back to town and got two day's provisions, and one thing that looked good was real American white bread.

It was 11 o'clock before we had supper. Had a little canned beef, coffee and each one got a loaf of bread which is to last him six meals. While we were waiting for the officers to arrange things, a couple of French boys came around with a bag of onions which they sold to us for one cent a piece. I bought five, kept one and gave the rest away. Another peasant woman also sold us a lot of nuts. After we had supper we made ourselves as comfortable as possible for the rest of the night. We have only two blankets apiece, so I hope we don't stay here too long, which I heard we wouldn't. Have no conveniences here at all.

Monday, July 22, 1918

I rested quite well last night. Had one sixth more of the bread and four pieces of bacon and a little coffee. I might say here this coffee is the first we've had since leaving American. I think the dope they handed us on ship was chickory. I would like to write a couple letters but haven't any paper and not a bit in sight. So will have to wait. Glad I wrote those on the ship. 

We got news this morning and last night that the Germans are in full retreat. Hope it's true and that they keep on. Haven't had a wash since yesterday a.m. Have to get used to such, I guess. It's 10:30 now and a nasty rain setting in. Rained more or less all day and night. We made ourselves as comfortable as possible, but it is sure unpleasant staying in pup tents in rainy weather. Getting real American feed again and believe me it sure seems good. I happened to have a candle in my pack, and it came in pretty handy in the evening as we closed the tent up with our rain coats and then lit our candle. Helped a lot in keeping it warmer.

Tuesday, July 23, 1918

Cleared off about noon today and by evening it was a lot dryer. Last evening our company street was a regular sea of mud. A bunch of us were detailed to get another day's rations from the headquarters of camp about one and a half miles from here. It is the site of one of Napoleon's old camp. The barracks are all of stone. Part of it, I understand, was used as a prison. There is a large high stone wall all around it. A couple of the officers and a few of the boys got some paper at the YMCA this p.m. and distributed it among the boys. Wrote a letter home this evening. Was also on detail to get some water this evening. We went to the nearest farm house. Their wells have a stone covering, and they draw the water with a bucket and windlass. Haven't seen a pump here yet. Don't see any four-wheeled wagons either. All use two-wheeled carts. The inhabitants are about a hundred years behind times. They seem to be content to plod along in the same old rut. Women are doing most of the work and some of them show the hardship, too. They all wear wooden shoes. The country here is a little rolling and is quite pretty this time of year.

Wednesday, July 24, 1918

Was a dandy day today. This a.m. those who were not on detail went for a hike. After dinner we went down to the camp below, intending to get a bath but didn't get any for some reason. Almost three weeks since I've had one, and I'm beginning to feel that way, too. Getting some real army life now. The rest of the p.m. and evening I wrote to my sister, also to my sweetheart.

Four of the companies have orders to leave tonight. Expect we'll be going tomorrow somewhere.

Thursday, July 25, 1918

Am writing this morning the last couple day account. Is a beautiful morning. The four companies are gone, left about 3:00 this morning. As yet we've had no orders yet. I was on detail this p.m. to get another day's rations. Was rather tired when we got back so lay in our tent till supper. Didn't eat much as I had a sour stomach, which started Wednesday night. After supper we got orders to roll our packs, as we would leave in the morning.

Friday, July 26, 1918

I had some experience out of the deal last night. We wasn't to leave Brest till 7:45 a.m. but we were ordered to roll our packs last evening as we would leave camp at 3 a.m. It was a little chilly with no protection except our clothing. I was put on guard duty from 10-12 o'clock to guard the officers baggage at the main road. I was a rather sick fellow during the night. About 1:30 I lay down in an oat field next to our camp, intending to rest a few minutes. But it was 3:30 when I awoke and all was quiet where our company had been. A thousand thoughts flashed in my mind, and believe me I jumped up quicker than it takes to tell it, hopped over the fence and saw a couple colored soldiers sitting by our fire and asked them how long they had been gone. They told me about ten minutes. I felt a bit relieved then, wasn't worried any about being left as we wasn't to leave Brest till 7 a.m.

I looked a little for my pack and didn't see it where I left it, so thought perhaps some of them took it. I now started out to catch the company. I asked some French peasants a couple times on the road if they'd seen a bunch of soldiers pass by shortly and I found out they were not far ahead. I made about two miles before I caught them and I was pretty well bushed. Was some joke on me all right, but might have turned out a whole lot worse. I expected the captain would say more than he did, but he only asked me a few questions and laughed a little.

We left Brest about 7:30. Had to ride in box cars, 40 men with packs in each car. Had planks to sit on. Their railroad cars are less than half the size of U.S. cars. It was far from comfortable, especially at night for sleeping. I didn't eat any breakfast, but ate a little at noon and started to feel good again. We took three days' rations of bread, canned beans, corned beef hash, corned beef and a little jam. We certainly had a fine trip through the central part of France. Went by the route of Rennes, Laval, which is about as far as we got the first day. The railroads here aren't what they are in the U.S., otherwise we could have crossed France in less than 72 hours.

Saturday, July 27, 1918

Still on the train. Went through Angers, Tours and Brouges today. Besides these a number of other small towns. Beginning to see a lot of American soldiers in the large cities now. Seems the Americans are using this railroad as their main one, and it is surprising of the improvements the U.S. is building. Also are beginning to see German prisoners.

Sunday, July 28, 1918

Went through Dijon today, which is quite a large place and a lot of American soldiers here. In the p.m. we stopped at quite a large American camp. They say we are now about 100 miles from the lines and are hearing very good news for the allies.

There are about 10,000 German prisoners around this camp, and they all seem to have a good time. A few of us went to the barracks and got our supper. Had steak, pie and coffee.

We stayed at this place till about 3 a.m. Monday when they took us to a place about 20 miles farther to a small village called Villeguisan. Was talking with one of the soldiers who had been at this camp a few months, and he was telling that some of the German prisoners said the German paper stated that America had about 1,000 soldiers in France. Can you imagine such? Is true all right, but they don't say how many more. Some of us are beginning to think less of the French, too. Too slow and easy going.

From what the U.S. boys say, they are that way about fighting, too. If so, no wonder it's lasting so long. 

Monday, July 29, 1918

We got off the train about 5:00 this morning and at 6:00 we went in the town and were given quarters in the houses and barns of the town. Most of the male population is at the front, so not many men here. 

I with a few others are in a barn, 24 in all. It is the horses quarters by the looks, I think. We had no breakfast, but I happened to have a crust of bread in my haversack and a little coffee in my canteen as had a couple bites. During the a.m. we got our barracks bags and other company equipment, also rations from the depot.

Had dinner about 1:45 p.m. After that I went down to a small creek back of the barn where I stay and took a bath, first I had since leaving the U.S., and it sure felt good. Also washed my clothes. By that time it was supper again.

Tuesday, July 30, 1918

Was a dandy day today, reminded me of an August or September day back home; so quiet and still. This a.m. they took us out for a hike of about six miles. This p.m. we were supposed to have a couple lectures, but they were called off. Spent part of my time sorting over my junk and then wrote to Hazel.

Wednesday, July 31, 1918

Another fine day today. I was on duty as room orderly. Was another beside me, George Robson. We had to give the place a general cleaning. Got done about the middle of the p.m.

I took my bedding back then and went to the creek and got a good wash. A woman was doing her washing there and I tried to talk with her a little. I found out that the Americans and French had made an advance of eight kilometers. We heard reports of either cannon or dynamite this p.m. She told me it was cannon. The rest of the p.m. and this evening I wrote to my sister Laura.

Thursday, Aug. 1, 1918

Was quite warm today, about the warmest day I've seen here. This a.m. I was one in a bunch detailed to get some wood for cooking from the next town. We borrowed a wagon from one of the villages. There is a canal to the east of this town, and the road we took followed it. Saw a boat go through the locks, which is the first I've ever seen of such.

This p.m. we had a lecture from a medical officer who has been at the front. A lot of what he told us is just the opposite of what we were taught at Camp Meade.

I intended to write home tonight but haven't the ambition.

Friday, Aug. 2, 1918

My duty today was to relieve the exterior guard (one of them) an hour and a half during each meal, so had it rather soft today. Darned a pair of gloves this a.m. and started a letter home. Finished it this p.m. Read the paper and sleep a little. The company was to go on a hike but it was raining and they didn't go. A few of us had a little visit with a French soldier at the mess hall this evening. He had been in the battle of Verdun and it was quite interesting. He says the Germans are finished now.

Saturday, Aug. 3, 1918

Was rather cool and cloudy today. Had a nice little spell of sunshine this p.m. After I got off duty this noon a bunch of us went to the creek south of town and took a good bath, some of the fellows swam a little, but the water was quite chilly. When we came back I did my week's washing. Some mail came in this p.m. from the U.S. I got only ten letters, which is the first mail in a month, and believe me, they sure looked good. Have been reading them most all my spare time this evening. We got our tin bonnet this p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 4, 1918

Has been a dandy day, cool and pleasant. This morning I went to the French Catholic Church, first Catholic church I've ever been in. Of course, the service was all Greek to me. This p.m. I spent writing. Wrote home and started one to Hazel.

Monday, Aug. 5, 1918

Same old thing today. Got an English paper this morning with the good news that the Germans are still retreating as fast as they can. Wrote to Laura this p.m. and then took a nap.

Tuesday, Aug. 6, 1918

Same old thing today, only most of the guard, me included, so I lost my soft job, so will have to drill tomorrow. Wrote a couple letters this a.m. We turned in part of our clothes today. Had quite a rain shower this evening.

Wednesday, Aug. 7, 1918

Drilled this a.m. and lectures in p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 8, 1918

Had a hike with light packs today of about 12-14 miles. Country here is quite rolling and from some of the hills it certainly is a grand sight. Stood the hike fine, only am a little foot sore and tired.

Friday, Aug. 9, 1918

Only drilled about half of a.m. today as it rained. So Carl Kidd and I cut each other's hair. First attempt I've ever made. Signed payroll this morning, and I drew $10.60 for July. Didn't have lectures till 2:30 p.m. so I resewed some buttons on my trousers. Wrote to Aunt Mary this evening.

Saturday, Aug. 10, 1918

Drilled this a.m., and this p.m. we had to clean up the town a little. Wrote a letter home this evening.

Sunday, Aug. 11, 1918

Didn't have to get up till 7:00 this morning. I read the lesson this a.m. Rest of the day I wrote a couple letters, one to Laura and took it easy.

Monday, Aug. 12, 1918

Same old drill today.

Tuesday, Aug. 13, 1918

Same as Monday.

Wednesday, Aug. 14, 1918

Same drill and lectures. Had a gas lecture by a captain who has served on the front and he had a German mask, which had been captured shortly before. It is not as efficient as ours and one can easily see the Germans are short of certain materials. Cut two fellows hair this p.m. and evening.

Thursday, Aug. 15, 1918

Work today consisted of a maneuver in field work and I guess most of us found out it is no snap.

Friday, Aug. 16, 1918

Of late we have had no rain. Is quite dry now. Crops need rain very bad. We were paid this p.m. and of course the same thing as usual took place, only a few this time had a little more liquor than was best for them. But none were reported or caught. I forgot to mention that on Wednesday I was made Private First Class along with a few others.

Saturday, Aug. 17, 1918

Was room orderly for our billet today, so had it a little easy. During my above time I wrote Marion C. and Robert G.  Late in the p.m. and evening more mail from the U.S. came in. I received four letters from Laura, one from Hazel. Of all the things that cheer a fellow, I believe hearing from loved ones is the foremost one.

Sunday, Aug. 18, 1918

Stayed here all day and wrote three letters, one to Hazel, Laura and one home.

Monday, Aug. 19, 1918

Drill this a.m. and lectures this p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 19, 1918

Drilled this a.m. and went to lectures this p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 20, 1918

Drilled this a.m. This p.m. we went to a town about two miles from here with full packs and camped for the night for maneuvers tomorrow. It certainly is one beautiful evening. Words cannot describe the grandeur of it, the hilly landscape helps make the scene more beautiful.

Thursday, Aug. 22, 1918

Carved out the maneuvers today and came back to Villeguisen. Arrived here about 5 p.m. I thoroughly enjoyed the day. After breakfast I with a few others went up on a hill near the camp and it sure was a splendid sight. Could see such a long distance.

Friday, Aug. 23, 1918

Drilled this a.m. In p.m. we went through a room filled with gas to test out our masks for leaks, etc. Mail came in this p.m. and I got three letters from Laura, a NH paper from Hazel and a dozen C.S. papers. [He probably didn't mean to write "dozen" but I don't know what else it might be.] In these letters of Laura's she had just received my card telling of my safe arrival. I wrote to Hazel this evening.

Saturday, Aug. 24, 1918

Drilled this a.m. This p.m. we moved in the billet next door, and I was one of the bunch detailed to clean it up. 

Sunday, Aug. 25, 1918

Stayed around the billet all day, wrote to Laura, also wrote home.

Had a couple showers yesterday and today it is a bit cooler. Forgot that we signed the payroll yesterday. I drew $13.54 this time.

Monday, Aug. 26, 1918

I've been under the weather today. Was excused from duty so was on my bunk all a.m. and part of the p.m. Did my washing this p.m. All I've eaten today is a few mouthfuls of supper. Am feeling much better than this morning. Has been a nice cool day today.

This a.m. one of the ladies here gave me a hot drink of cocoa. Surely tasted good, and believe me it reminded me of home and mother's meals.

Tuesday, Aug. 27, 1918

Went out and drilled this a.m. Sprained my ankle a little but it didn't begin to pain much till this p.m. and let up about 7:00. I turned in at eight bells.

Wednesday, Aug. 28, 1918

Didn't go out for duty today. The company went out for field work. This a.m. I did some sewing on my clothes and this p.m. I wrote to Hazel, also a French birthday card to Marion. Ankle feels a lot better.

Thursday, Aug. 29, 1918

Was out for regular duty today, same as ever.

Friday, Aug. 30, 1918

Went for field practice today and had to wear our gas masks four consecutive hours. Not a large percent stuck it out, but I kept mine on the full four hours.

Saturday, Aug. 31, 1918

Same drill as usual today. Finished school about 3 p.m. Then a bunch of us went for a swim and bath, which is what I took for I cannot swim. After I got back I did my weekly washing.

Sunday, Sept. 1, 1918

Started a letter to Laura last evening and finished this a.m. Also wrote home besides going to church. Read the C.S. lesson this p.m. and sleep. This evening I went to St. Micheal, a small town near here. Had a couple boxing bouts and some movies shown by a Y.M. man. He also brought a piano, and believe me I did enjoy the piano and pictures for its the first I've seen and heard since leaving the good old U.S.A. 

For some reason I've been thinking of home today, scenes of it, what I'd be doing if there, etc. Guess it's the coming autumn weather which causes me to wonder back.

Monday, Sept. 2, 1918

Drilled today same as ever and wrote to Hazel this evening.

Tuesday, Sept. 3, 1918

Was on K.P. today, first I've been on that duty since I was in Camp Meade. Was almost beginning to think they had lost my name off the book.

Got two letters from Laura and one from Hazel this p.m. Carl Kidd, the other K.P., and I carried water this p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 4, 1918

Drilled this a.m. and this p.m. we had a half holiday, first Wednesday p.m. off since drilling on this side. I shaved, sharpened a couple razor blades, sleep and read a little.

Thursday, Sept. 5, 1918

Had field work today. Didn't take any dinner. Most of us got back about 2 p.m. A couple of the boys had a little more vim than was best for them.

Friday, Sept. 6, 1918

Was room orderly today. A little rainy yesterday and this a.m. Cleaned and blackened my shoes this a.m. and wrote to Laura this p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 7, 1918

Drilled today and at retreat this p.m. we got orders to be ready to leave any hour. I did my washing this evening.

Sunday, Sept. 8, 1918

At reveille we received orders to be ready with our packs and on the road at 9:15. We stopped for the night about 5 p.m. and at this time it started to rain and we got soaked. We marched about 16 miles, and it was one of the hardest marches I ever had; also the heaviest pack. It was a bad stormy night, wind and rain. My pal's tent and my tent blew down, and we sure got soaked. We were up and had our packs rolled at 6:30 the next morning and hiked till noon, when we reached the French railroad station. I was about all in, if I ever was. Had to wait there till about 5 p.m. before getting in the box car and it rained most of the time.

Monday, Sept. 9, 1918

Got a little ahead here. We rode all day Monday and night and got off at Longville Tuesday morning.

Tuesday, Sept. 10, 1918

Got off the train this morning and sat around in the rain most all a.m. About noon we marched about three miles to Bar Le Duc, a fair-sized city near the front. Tired, wet, hungry and chilly. We are in an American barracks, thank goodness. had a good hot supper and felt a lot better.

Wednesday, Sept. 11, 1918

Spent all this a.m. drying clothes, or trying to. Has kept on raining off and on since Sunday evening. This p.m. I went down town along with some of the other fellows. Part of this city is in ruins from being bombed by aeroplanes. One doesn't realize the destruction it causes till you see it with your own eyes. This is the first I've seen. 

I got a couple candles, also some candy at the YMCA in this city. Most of us got a bath at a French bath house. Cost two francs with towel and soap furnished.

Wrote home this evening.

Thursday, Sept. 12, 1918

A number of planes are going over this morning. Last evening we could hear the guns at the front. I've heard that we are only about 25 kilos back now. Have been turning in a few clothes and just had a hair cut. 

Went down town this p.m. and I bought me a compass for five francs. Wrote to Hazel this evening.

Jan. 31, 1972

Here is an item that I could not write in at that time. I bought a pin for Hazel, which had the name Bar Le Duc on it and had the French lady clerk mail it to her through the French system, which she did.

Saturday, Sept. 14, 1918

Wrote Laura this a.m. and helped Lt. Hansen a few minutes with censoring the mail. Packed up this p.m. and left Bar Le Duc about 5:00, Marched to the edge of town and here I am waiting for trucks for transportation. As I sit here on my pack I can hear the continuous roar of the cannon in the distance. Americans are driving the Germans back from St. Mihiel toward Metz.

Sunday, Sept. 15, 1918

Got on the trucks about midnight and rode the rest of the night. Have been resting today in a woods. Is also some kind of a French camp. Had a dandy bed this p.m. One of the French soldiers let me lay in his, on some hay in a little shack and believe me I appreciated it. Have heard cannon all day, a few shots not very far away. Was visiting with one of the French soldiers a few minutes ago and was a little surprised to find that we are only 10 kilometers back of the lines and about 19 from Verdun. 

Think we'll move tonight again but don't know a thing about it. Guess I'll look around a little now.

Monday, Sept. 16, 1918

Left the place where we were yesterday after it got dark and marched about two miles across a valley to another encampment. Got here about 9:00 last night and sleep in the open. Didn't open our packs to get our blankets. Was a bit chilly though before morning.

Got in a barracks this a.m. Have a dandy place but don't know if we'll stay or not. Hope we get to Berlin before stopping. Believe me it does seem good to be in a bunk after laying in the open a couple nights.

Had a good hot meal this noon, too. A plane is going over now. We are near the town of Polerecourt now. Am going to try and get some sleep this p.m.

Had a good rest but got orders to be ready at 7:00 to move again. We marched about three miles when we reached a small village, which lay in ruins. As we reached this village, Dombasle, a German plane came over and dropped a few bombs, a couple not very far away. He also used a machine gun on troops on the road farther in the rear.

Reached our camp about an hour later and sleep in the open the rest of the night.

Tuesday, Sept. 17, 1918

Was quartered in a dugout today. We cleaned it out as best we could. It's a little damp, but that's better than making a target for Germans I guess.

One of their planes was over this p.m. and dropped a number of bombs. Also some papers referring to something about peace, etc.

Wednesday, Sept. 18, 1918

Had a good sleep last night. Have been up more or less every night since Saturday night. Raining a little this morning. This p.m. I wrote to Hazel, mother and Laura.

Thursday, Sept. 19, 1918

Was on K.P. today and believe me I got three squares. Mail came today. I got 14 in all and I sure did enjoy them. Kept me busy all my spare time today reading them. Got my first one from home direct.

Friday, Sept. 20, 1918

Cleaned a lot of trash out of the floor of our dugout this a.m. Did my washing this p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 21, 1918

Was on gas guard last night till 1 a.m. today so sleep most all fore noon. Wrote to Homer Haire and heard from him today.

Sunday, Sept. 22, 1918

Worked last night till 1:30 this morning unloading baggage etc. Was raining all p.m., so started a letter to Hazel when I was detailed to help unload supplies, so finished this evening.

Monday, Sept. 23, 1918

Didn't do much of anything today. Answered mother's letter, which I was at more or less all day. In the p.m. I had to help cut wood for the kitchen. In the evening I had to help fix up a road with stone.

Tuesday, Sept. 24, 1918

Nothing eventful so far today. Had a gas alarm about 3:30 this morning, but none came. Nevertheless, I lost no time in getting in my mask after I was woke up. Having a nice sunshiny day today for a wonder. Had to work this evening fixing a road.

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 1918

Cut some fire wood this morning and a couple of the boys fixed our dugout over in a bit, quite a cozy home now.

Thursday, Sept. 26, 1918

After I had got in bed about 10 minutes last night I heard a "pop" which seemed but a few yards from our dugout, and my first thought was a gas shell, so I called the rest and got in my gas mask, which we wore about an hour in all. The Germans sent over a few more shells, and very shortly the U.S. guns cut loose and the drive was on. All night long the cannon roared and part of the day.

Was some music as we are right back of the artillery. Guess they got results as I've seen two bunches of German prisoners go past. I was called out last night for duty and didn't lay down till 4:00 this morning.

Just got back from a walk this p.m. Was over to one of the cannon, but they were quiet this p.m. Saw a German aviator bring down two allied observation balloons, was quite a sight and they say they got the German and his plane.

Well I have seen today just a little of the horrors of war. For one thing I saw a couple horses blown to fragments by last night's shells. Also killed a French man.

Friday, Sept. 27, 1918

(Didn't know this in 1918 but this was the beginning of the Meuse Argonne offensive.)

I was put on gas guard last night, so sleep all a.m. and this p.m. rolled up my pack. Also a couple of others as we expect orders to move but not till tomorrow. So I was put on gas guard again tonight.

Saturday, Sept. 28, 1918

Started for the front lines this morning and reaches our destination about midnight. Was a wet and nasty march. Went a ways past Malancourt (or it used to be, is now a mass of ruin). I might say this was taken by the Americans a couple days ago. I saw for the first time what is called No Man's Land, and it surely is a devastated area. Not a living tree in sight. Only dead stubs. And in places it is one mass of shell holes.

I crawled in a kitchen tent the rest of the night and tried to sleep, but it was about impossible as I was wet and not a very dry place to lay in.

Sunday, Sept. 29, 1918

We are attached to a field hospital here which consists of three large tents. Worked like a trooper all day carrying in wounded and from what little I saw today I must say that Sherman said a whole lot in a very few words.

[No doubt referring to a famous quote from Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman: "War is all hell."]

About 4:00 this p.m. the Germans started shelling our field hospital, which made things a lot worse. I recall very distinctly of seeing one shell burst. It struck right in a row of litter patients and cut one fellow right in half. I was about to help a captain doctor dress a fellow about 30 feet away. It sure was horrible. We had the patients all away in a couple hours and loaded them on trucks as fast as we could. Will add here that we have no ambulances. A few of us worked till 12:30 and then started to find some of the rest of the company. We walked till we got tired and then three of us laid in a gun pit the rest of the night.

Monday, Sept. 30, 1918

We found some of the rest this a.m. and this p.m. started to go back and stopped near Avencourt for the night.

Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1918

We started out for the dugout from which we left, and I and the bunch I was with reached there about 4 p.m. It almost seemed like getting back home. I shaved and cleaned up a bit and after supper turned in.

Wednesday, Oct. 2, 1918

I didn't get up till 9 this a.m. It surely seemed good to sleep in a dry place again. Spent most of the day cleaning and washing, which I just finished. Is 4 p.m. now. Wrote to Hazel this evening.

Thursday, Oct. 3, 1918

Didn't get up till 8 bells this a.m. and wrote home. Got a little more mail today. Started to write Laura this p.m. and at supper we got orders to pack up and leave.

Friday, Oct. 4, 1918

Marched from midnight till this morning and lay in a woods till 4 p.m., when we started again and stopped at Souilly woods.

Saturday, Oct. 5, 1918

Was on k.p. today and feeling a little bum; from the march and exposure, I guess.

Sunday, Oct. 6, 1918

Had a wonderful sleep last night on a straw tick. Finished the letter I started to Laura last Thursday. Wrote to Hazel this evening. About 40 of the fellows left for the front this p.m. A little excitement took place this p.m. at the news in today's paper that the Central Powers asked for peace.

Monday, Oct. 7, 1918

Didn't get up till 8 this a.m. and lay on my bunk most of the remainder of the day. Had orders to move tonight. Rode in a truck this time.

Tuesday, Oct. 8, 1918

We sleep in a ruined church this morning and reached our destination about 10:00 this a.m. Am quartered in a dugout in the ruins of a small village, Les Esparges.

Wednesday, Oct. 9, 1918

Had a dandy sleep last night; have a nice bunk. Having one beautiful day today. Sun is out, so nice and warm and everything is so quiet except an occasional cannon.

Thursday, Oct. 10, 1918

Another beautiful day. Germans were dropping shells all p.m. a short distance from us. The shrapnel would fly as far as our hotel. Mail came in this evening, and I received 11. Spent my evening reading them.

Friday, Oct. 11, 1918

Was chilly and gloomy today. I was on guard in the kitchen from midnight till daylight. Wrote home and to Laura today and to Hazel this evening.

Saturday, Oct. 12, 1918

Didn't do much of anything today, shaved and darned a pair of socks this a.m. Oh, we got some yesterdays papers and I read that awhile this p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 13, 1918

I sleep all forenoon and wrote a couple letters this p.m. Was on guard last night.

Monday, Oct. 14, 1918

About all I did today was write a couple letters. We were paid this p.m. I drew 55 francs.

Tuesday, Oct. 15, 1918

I sleep most of the a.m. Was on gas guard last night and we had a gas attack which started about 12:45 a.m. and lasted till 2:45 and believe me the shells sure did fly. I was posted by Lt. Williams dugout in a trench. I received a few compliments today for sticking to my post and giving the alarm. I stuck till Lt. Williams called me in the dugout.

More or less gas is about today. We left this place this p.m. Too much gas. We went back about four kilos.

Wednesday, Oct. 16, 1918

We are located at present a little west of St. Remy, side of the road in some dugouts. I didn't do much of anything today. Got three letters: one from Laura and two from Hazel. Wrote to Laura this p.m. and sent my Christmas slip.

Thursday, Oct. 17, 1918

Is still cloudy and rainy. Had a good wash and shave this a.m. and it sure did feel good. Didn't do much of anything today.

Friday, Oct. 18, 1918

About all I did today was write home and to Hazel. We were issued our winter underwear today. I was put on kitchen guard for half the night again.

Saturday, Oct. 19, 1918

Dan Mills, Will Bland, Herbert Thompson and I took a little walk this a.m. through some German trenches and dugouts, or rather used to be. They sure had some swell dugouts. Guess they thought they'd always stay the way they dug down. Lay on my bunk most of the p.m. Mail came this evening; one letter from home and two from Laura. Having a nice local rain tonight.

Sunday, Oct. 20, 1918

I sleep all a.m., didn't eat no breakfast. Had a little singing party this p.m.  which I enjoyed very much. I wrote home and to Laura while on guard this evening. Seemed like a real Sunday today for the first time in six weeks.

Monday, Oct. 21, 1918

Nothing of interest took place today. Was a swell day. Had a letter from Hazel this evening.

Tuesday, Oct. 22, 1918

Was on guard at kitchen the early hours this a.m. While on guard they sent considerable gas shells over on St. Remy I think. Wrote to Hazel, also a couple other letters. Has been quite a bit of artillery activity this a.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 23, 1918

Having one beautiful autumn day - so peaceful. I sleep most all a.m. Saw three American women this a.m. and two played a piece on their violin. Sure was wonderful to hear that music and see women. First I've seen in six weeks. They were YMCA entertainers. Went for a walk this p.m. This territory was taken from the Germans in September on the St. Mihiel drive. Got a letter from home this evening. We have got orders to be ready to leave here by 8:00 tomorrow.

Thursday, Oct. 24, 1918

We marched to Troyon with packs. Got here about 2:30 p.m. The YMCA people gave us an entertainment in the evening, and we sure enjoyed it. There were four American ladies, and two of them played violins. It may not be the best music I ever heard, but I sure did enjoy the whole evening. Was like stepping in paradise.

Friday, Oct. 25, 1918

Had quite a hike today. Left Troyon about 8:00 this a.m. and marched to a small town, Frauboug Pave, east of Verdun. It is a fine country all through here. We followed the Meuse River valley, also a canal along here. It is full of boats, but none are being used. Part of them are sunk. We got here about 3 p.m. Was up to the edge of Verdun when we turned off for this town. sleep in an apartment house, or what it used to be the way it looks to me. sleep on the floor. Am in a similar place tonight but have a bunk.  Saw one cow and some peasants digging potatoes today. A little like civilization again.

Saturday, Oct. 26, 1918

Heard we'd be here a few days, so we got busy this a.m. and got some fine wood and I also resurrected a table for our room. Have a fine place and six of us in it. This p.m. and evening wrote Hazel and Laura, also finished a letter home. Got two from Laura today.

Sunday, Oct. 27, 1918

Has been a peach of a day today, but we're not allowed to leave this building. Would like to take a walk over to Verdun. I cleaned up a bit this a.m. and wrote a letter this p.m.

Monday, Oct. 28, 1918

We were allowed short passes today to Verdun. So I saw it this a.m. One strange thing about it is so much of it is underground. One can easily see why the Germans tried so hard to take it. This p.m. I did a little washing and wrote a letter this evening.

Tuesday, Oct. 29, 1918

Had orders that we would leave this p.m., so I spent the p.m. getting ready and wrote a letter. Having one glorious day today. Went out about 12 miles and stopped side of the road by a cliff. The Meuse River is right on the left, also the canal, but no water in it here.

Wednesday, Oct. 30, 1918

I helped the fellows all day trying to make us a dugout. Was on guard last night and will be tonight again.

Thursday, Oct. 31, 1918

A German plane dropped a few bombs cross the river last night. I've been sleeping most all day. Are having a glorious day for the last of October, but it gets pretty chilly at night, especially when we have little or no protection.

Friday, Nov. 1, 1918

Sleep all a.m. and helped put up a little shelter for the night this p.m. Had a letter from Laura yesterday. This is about as bad a place as we have struck yet, and just left the best one we have had in France.

Saturday, Nov. 2, 1918

Am still doing guard duty, so sleep this a.m. We got the news today that Turkey has capitulated. 

Sunday, Nov. 3, 1918

Nothing new, only the Germans did some heavy shelling along this road last night, also a little gas. Was not heavy enough, for us to wear our masks. This a.m. Wilson Brodie and I hewed out a shelter to sleep in on the side of this cliff overlooking the road, canal and Meuse River. We got tired of fixing a place every night. Am lying in it now, writing this. Got a letter from Hazel this a.m.

Monday, Nov. 4, 1918

I was given one of the Ford ambulances this a.m. to drive. Got lost a bit this p.m. in going back to the hospital. On my way back to the front tonight about 6 p.m. a large truck rammed me from the back, pushed me into one ahead and pushed the radiator against the motor. Some luck for a starter. It was pitch dark, and we could use no lights, also heavy cloud.

Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1918

Heavy traffic jam. Some fellows helped me push my ambulance to side of road, so I bedded down in back and sleep the night. I got up about 7:30. It was late in the p.m. before help came and towed me back to our base. I thought I'd get called on the carpet but the sergeant only had a good laugh about it. I think it was Glenn Bronson.

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 1918

Had to neglect of late in keeping account of my doings and experiences. A lot has surely happened of late. I sure have been busy the last two weeks, some of the time night and day with the ambulance. After getting back to base and a new radiator put on and back up to the front again for more wounded. I was gone for a period of 24 hours, had some K rations, so didn't go hungry.

A few days later than Nov. 5 I had another little spill at a railroad crossing at Souilly on a turn in the road, sprung my front radius rod and then right steering arm. I got stuck once before that night. Had three litter patients. I had been driving night and day and was all in. Is a wonder to me that I didn't upset the old "Lizzie." I was doing evacuation work at this time from the field hospital at Genicourt to Souilly. Guess I got drowsy and went to right side of road. My two right wheels dropped off the edge of the road. It was dark. I told the three patients to stay quiet as I would get some help. I saw some lights not too far away. It was a French camp. Several came out to the ambulance and literally picked it up and set it back in the road. I told them "Mercy Boucoup" as best I could. Anyway, they were a happy bunch of fellows.

We worked a few days after the war ended and then there wasn't much to do, so we started fixing and cleaning our ambulances. Am all fixed now again. Monday p.m. I had a trip up to Reveille for a gas patient. It is quite a way beyond where our dressing station was located, side of that cliff. It still looks natural, but sure is some different than it was when firing was going on.

On the 11th hour, 11th day and 11th month the guns spoke their last, and we looked at each other and wondered if it really could be true, that peace - wonderful peace - had arrived at last. It was celebrated in all kinds of ways by the French as well as Americans, ringing of bells, shooting rockets, etc.

Saw two French fellows walking in the street; they sang out, "Finis le Gare" and the one threw his cane right over the house top on his side of the street.

One can sympathize with the French as this part here is in one awful mess. One cannot realize it unless one sees it. This a.m., Glenn Bronson and I took a ride over to Verdun in my Ford. I got a bunch of Christmas cards and envelopes. We are having dandy weather these days, freezes quite hard every night. Wrote a letter and a few cards this p.m. and spent the evening playing pedro with the boys.

Thursday, Nov. 21, 1918

Went down this morning and warmed up the Ford a little and killed time the rest of the day doing nothing. Is four months ago today when we landed at Brest. There is a rumor about that we are to start on a 13-day hike the last of this week and we are discussing the hardships of that occasionally. One of the boys had a paper today. I read in it a little this evening and I see everything is going OK so far.

Friday, Nov. 22, 1918

Came very near missing my breakfast this morning. Rest were all through when I woke up, but I got some anyway. So far the ambulance drivers don't have to appear at any formations, so I make use of reveille and laying abed till just before breakfast. Have been sewing rips and buttons on my clothes this morning. Is a fine morning, only quite frosty.

Sunday, Nov. 24, 1918

Read the Sunday school lesson for today, first time and chance in some time. Started a letter home this p.m. when about 4:00 I was sent out on a trip. Was about 20 kilos out, and when I got started back had a puncture and had no pump out in no man's land. So I pulled the tire off and came back on the rim, which was ruined. Too many stone roads. Finished my letter after I got back. Warmed and clouded up today and is raining this evening.

Monday, Nov. 25, 1918

Put a new rim on the Ford this a.m. I got a letter from mother and one from Hazel and two from Laura this p.m. Sure enjoyed them. Wrote Laura this evening. Also heard some good news, that I was one in a bunch of 12 in the company that was selected for a seven-day leave to Ax Les Bains, a recreation resort near Swertingland for American soldiers. We are to appear before the colonel for an interview tomorrow.

Tuesday, Nov. 26, 1918

Can you imagine this for luck: The mumps started in my jaw yesterday, so after doing considerable thinking I thought I better report it to play safe with all. Was all off with my trip then, and I did my darndest to keep from going to the hospital, but nothing doing so here I am in "Froidos," a hospital about 50 kilos from Glorieux. Am in a ward with 25 other boys who have them.

This is an one one-story wooden barracks building. No nurses or anything of that sort here. Have to look after ourselves. Sort of a quarantine place.

Wednesday, Nov. 27, 1918

Been in bed most all day. Bothers me a little in eating, but feel good outside of that. Bought a paper this a.m. and read that, and this p.m. and evening I wrote to Hazel.

Thursday, Nov. 28, 1918

Can eat better today. I've been sleeping more or less today, shoved this noon. A bunch of the fellows left this a.m. It sure is lonesome here this evening. Not a thing to do or read. Had a fairly good dinner but nothing like I had at Camp Meade a year ago. Sure have a lot to be thankful for though.

Friday, Nov. 29, 1918

Wrote a letter home today. A bunch of colored fellows come in today.

Saturday, Nov. 30, 1918

Nothing doing today. This sure is some lonesome hole. Will surely be a happy day for me when I get out of this place.

Sunday, Dec. 1, 1918

Was a nice day today. I read over today's lesson this a.m. and this p.m. I cut three head of hair. Guess the price appealed to them better than anything else.

Monday, Dec. 2, 1918

Wrote to Laura today, which is about all I did outside of washing dishes and getting chow. Having fine weather for this time of year. Ground isn't froze yet. A half dozen fellows left this evening.

Tuesday, Dec. 3, 1918

Nothing doing today. Seven white fellows came in from another ward, so we have a full house now again. I had a nap both a.m. and p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 4, 1918

Same old thing today. Eat and sleep. Hope I can get out of here soon. Is a hard job to do nothing. Having rainy and foggy weather, not cold at all.

Thursday, Dec. 5, 1918

Another day gone. I cut a couple fellows hair this p.m. Wrote to Hazel today and had my daily naps.

Friday, Dec. 6, 1918

Nothing new today. The Lieutenant is going to send half of the fellows out tomorrow. I decided that I better stay a couple days longer.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 1918

Half of the fellows left this evening. Sure wish I'd been with them, but it must be best that I wait a couple days. Yesterday I swapped off with one with getting our hair cut.

Sunday, Dec. 8, 1918

Has been a quiet peaceful day. Seemed like an old fashioned Sunday. Wrote a letter home this p.m.

Monday, Dec. 9, 1918

A couple of new fellows came in today, one from my division 79th the other from Germany. He said the people treated them fine, even better than the French. I'm feeling fine again, waiting to get out.

Tuesday, Dec. 10, 1918

The lieutenant took my name to go out today or tomorrow, so I got busy and washed my feet, socks, towel, etc. Was some tickled to get out again. 

They called us about 7:00 this evening. An ambulance took us to Fluery, where we took the train for Revigney to go to a replacement camp. Had some ride as we missed our stopping place, so we decided to stay on till morning. But we were kicked off about 2 a.m. by the French. So we knew it was the end of something. It was a large French camp below Bleseme about three kilos.

At 6 a.m. we walked back to Bleseme and took the train back to Revigney, and what surprised us, we rode first class. Seemed we could hardly believe it to be true, as I have did all my traveling in box cars.

Got to Revigney about 10 a.m. and from there hiked to Contrisson, where the replacement camp is. More mud than anything else.

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 1918

Got a little ahead of my story. Got two blankets and a mess kit, then they took a record of us and put us in barracks. So here I am. Some different than the hospital. No fire, good bed or anything like that. Some guy stole my slicker while I was at mess this evening.

Thursday, Dec. 12, 1918

Another lad and I doubled up last night so sleep quite warm at that. Went to bed at 5:00 last night. Didn't sleep at all night before. Having a cold, nasty rain again. A fellow is in a state of suspense here wondering if you'll get back to your company or not. Yesterday morning while waiting for our train I met Bill Byers from Meade, Mich. Didn't get a chance to talk much. This is something as they say could only happen once in a lifetime. Still don't know what outfit he is in. 

This p.m. I saw a French threshing rig at work. It was a tread power outfit. They were using a horse to run it. Some rig side of ours in the U.S. No one went out today as the place changed hands. I wrote to Hazel and Laura this evening.

Friday, Dec. 13, 1918

I took a nap after breakfast and then wrote home and to Carl Kidd and then went down to the Red Cross room and mailed them. I got in with the bunch going out this p.m. Is four of us from the 79th Division. Took the train at Revigney and went to the next station below, where we are to get a train for Verdun, where we were told our division is.

Saturday, Dec. 14, 1918

Got on our train at midnight last night. Got in a box car loaded with flour, so lay and sleep on that. Out of Souilly a couple box cars got off the track, so was held up a while. On reaching Landrecourt the crew got word of a wreck above Verdun so went on with the engine. Was no sign of us leaving at 2 p.m. so we started to hike but caught a ride with some Frenchmen in two-wheeled carts, so only had to walk about two kilos. I found the company 315 in the same place where I had left from Glorieux. Got there just at supper time. I received three letters.

Sunday, Dec. 15, 1918

Having a dandy day. Only 10 days before Christmas. Doesn't seem possible to look outside - sunshine and not froze a bit. I wrote to the company post office for my mail this morning. Wrote home today and to Hazel this evening.

Monday, Dec. 16, 1918

I went out with the company and drilled today, seemed a bit odd but I soon got into the swing. Wrote to Laura between times. 

Lt. Williams asked me if I wanted to go back on the ambulance, but I decided to stay here.

Tuesday, Dec. 19, 1918

I moved my bunk with some of the fellows in an old house on a hill. Was too lonesome where I was back of our office and kitchen all alone. I went up to the hospital (Evacuation 15) and got five blankets. I told the quartermaster lieutenant I was out of luck in not having enough, which I was, and asked him if I could get some out of the salvage pile. So he wrote me out an order and told me to get them sterilized. I heard that we probably would be here a few weeks, so I though I'd sleep warm if any such thing was possible.

Wednesday, Dec. 18, 1918

Only drilled a couple hours this a.m. Has been rainy all the rest of the day. A cold wind is blowing and as it whistles around the corner it surely sounds like winter is here.

Thursday, Dec. 19, 1918

I was room orderly today. Received a Christmas box from Laura today. Wrote to her this evening. We had quite a hard snow squall this p.m. and it is turning colder.

Friday, Dec. 20, 1918

Had a short hike this a.m. instead of drill. Nothing doing this p.m. so us fellows in our apartment went out and salvaged some fire wood. Tore down a building to get the wood out of the rafters, etc. Walked up to the RC [recreation center?] this evening but no excitement.

Saturday, Dec. 21, 1918

Had a regular old Camp Meade inspection this a.m. First one I've stood since July. Went to the hospital right after and had a dandy hot bath, almost missed my dinner by being late. Washed all my dirty clothes this p.m. Went to a minstrel show this evening given by some colored soldiers. They sure could shake their feet. Also wrote to Hazel this evening.

Sunday, Dec. 22, 1918

The payroll was signed this a.m. but I am out of luck as my service record isn't back. Took a nap this a.m., also p.m. Wrote home this evening.

Monday, Dec. 23, 1918

Had a little drill and splint practice this a.m. Drill and lecture this p.m. Got some mail this evening and it sure was enjoyed believe me.

Tuesday, Dec. 24, 1918

Drilled this a.m. and then splint practice. Got the news this a.m. that we move someplace south this week. We're hoping it terminates in some embarkation port. Wrote to Hazel this evening.

Christmas day, Dec. 25, 1918

No exercises today. Each one of us got our mess kit full of nuts and candy, also a little tobacco at 9 a.m. It came from the R.C. and the YMCA. Had a good feed today: Chicken. Was the first fresh fowl I've ate in a long time. Apple pie, peas, gravy, rice, bread and coffee. For supper we had apple sauce, cake, bread and butter and coffee. Wasn't a great amount of candy, but it sure filled me up. A few of us went to the church here at Glorieux, where services were to be held at 10:30 but was nothing doing at that time. So we went to Verdun but was too late for the services there so came back. I took a little nap after dinner. A couple of the fellows were pretty well stewed and raised old hob in here for a while. A fine way to celebrate Christmas. 

A year ago tonight I was in the M.C. Depot at Detroit waiting for a train to go back to Camp Meade. A couple more drunks just came in. Wrote Laura this evening.

Thursday, Dec. 26, 1918

Had the usual drill and splint practice, except this p.m. we had no duties. So us fellows wrecked another building for firewood. Heard we probably would leave for Souilly Saturday. Had a letter from Laura.

Friday, Dec. 27, 1918

Same old drill today. No order came for moving tomorrow, so I shaved and cleaned and oiled my shoes this p.m. for inspection tomorrow. Has been quite chilly today.

Saturday, Dec. 28, 1918

Had inspection this a.m. Was told this p.m. to be ready for a move most any hour. I took a nap this p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 29, 1918

Got orders to roll packs at 4:00 this morning. We left Glorieux about 8:00 and reached Souilly about 2 p.m. and went out to the hospital barracks and put up there for the night. The hospital company left some time ago. It has been raining all day.

Monday, Dec. 30, 1918

Sleep on the floor last night and believe me I sleep, too. Pack got some heavy by the time we got here yesterday. We left at 8:00 this a.m. and rode in the ambulances, three in each car. Stopped at Chaurmont about 20 kilos from Souilly. Was crowded in hospital barracks again and had to sleep on the floor.

Tuesday, Dec. 31, 1918

Sleep good last night. Got orders to roll pack and hike about five kilos to Pierrefitte where they say we are to be quartered. Got two letters last evening; one from each Hazel and Laura. We got here about 10 a.m. and was put in hospital barracks. They are rather poor shelter but better than the sky. I was put on corporal of the guard this evening and tomorrow. Here's a farewell to 1918.

Wednesday, Jan. 1, 1919

Nothing unusual took place today. It was this p.m. when I got relieved. Wrote to Hazel this p.m. and evening. Got the news this evening that I am one to get a seven-day leave to a resort near Air Les Bains and are to go tomorrow. So I got busy and cleaned a few of my clothes.

Thursday, Jan. 2, 1919

Are eight of us going: Sgt. Becker, Pvts Baker, Blundon, Flynn, Statler, Knowles, cook Siglow and me. Went in the ambulances to Chaurmont and from here to Souilly in trucks. Were told here the train would leave at 11:00 tonight. So we made ourselves as comfortable as we could. Is about 1,200 of the 79th Division waiting for the train.

Friday, Jan. 3, 1919

Morning here and still no train in sight or heard of. Have managed to bum my eats so far, so I guess I can stand it as long as the rest. It sure is some tiresome waiting. Night has come again and still no train, so see where I sleep on a bench or floor again. Most of us are getting some disgusted waiting, too.

Saturday, Jan. 4, 1919

I rolled up in my two blankets last evening and sleep on the floor between two benches. About 10:00 this a.m. we got word the train was coming, so we went down to the tracks. The car I got in was a third class and was 10 of us in the one compartment. Two signal corps boys besides us eight. Things got balled up about the rations we were to be issued and us ten didn't get a thing. Only had a couple cans of jam and beans that we had brought with us but we managed to live the two days by bumming and buying a few sandwiches.

Our train left Souilly at 12:30. It had 24 coaches, all the way from box cars to poor first class coaches.

Sunday, Jan. 5, 1919

Had some sleep ? last night. So just room enough for us to sit up so had to sleep that way, too. Nothing unusual took place. We passed through St. Dizeir, Chaumont (Pershing's headquarters), Langress, Villeguison (our old training area of last August, came through it early this morning). In Sur Tille we lay at this place most of the a.m. Went through Dijon toward evening and then Nevers, Brougis and Clermont Fer during the night.

Monday, Jan. 6, 1919

Arrived at La Bourbule about 10:00 this a.m. and sure was some disappointed at seeing it from the depot. But by evening I had a much better idea that I would enjoy my stay. The scenery here is very beautiful. It's rather mountainous and some hills are thickly covered with pine. Has a covering of snow now. I am in the hotel Cosmopolitan. All of our company is at the same hotel. I cleaned up after getting in our room and then took a walk downtown and over to the YMCA. They have some place here. This sure is some change from living out of a mess kit and sleeping on the floor. A fellow doesn't hardly know how to act when his meals served to him in courses. I wrote a card to Dad and a couple to Laura this evening  and then went to bed and, oh boy, isn't this bed great.

Tuesday, Jan. 7, 1919

We did a lot of grumbling on the way down about having this trip wished on us but one night's sleep in this bed was worth it alone. Had my picture taken this a.m. and heard a lecture at the Y on Joan of Arc; her whole history, etc. Was very good and interesting. Getting swell feed and plenty of it. Sure is odd eating in a hotel right off from the old mess kit. Heard another lecture at the Y this p.m., "The Womanhood of France," by the same Miss Newman who gave the one this a.m. I enjoyed it very much, and my idea of France, etc. has changed a little.

Wednesday, Jan. 8, 1919

I spent most of today at the Y. Heard two more lectures by Miss Newman, "Womanhood of America" this a.m. and "A New Democracy" this p.m. Wrote a couple letters this p.m. Took in the show this evening.

Thursday, Jan. 9, 1919

Was rainy and stormy all day so didn't get out of town today.

Friday, Jan. 10, 1919

Had a beautiful sunshiny day today and I took advantage of it by climbing a couple of mountains here. Some sport, and the view from the top is certainly worth the climb. Took in the show this evening. Also wrote a letter to Hazel.

Saturday, Jan. 11, 1919

I visited Mount Dore, an interesting town about seven kilos from here. Went with the Y party this morning on the train and walked back this p.m. Was in the bath house there and saw one hot spring which is just as the Romans had it in their bath house 1,800 years ago. We also made the climb up to the Grand Cascade. Is a waterfall of 150 feet high.

Sunday, Jan. 12, 1919

Attended the church services at the Y this a.m. and after dinner Vic Knowles and I walked out to the "Barrage," the dam and power plant on the river near here, where this place gets its electricity. I stayed at the hotel this evening. A few "mademoiselles" came over and spent the evening dancing with the boys. All I could do was, or rather did was, look on, but I did enjoy the evening very much. They were very nice dames and sure could dance. The landlady treated us to a good drink of some mixture. The French seemed to enjoy it as much or more than us fellows.

Monday, Jan. 13, 1919

I didn't go out of town today. Didn't get up till 9:00 this a.m. Wrote three letters today and went to the show this evening. Heard we may not get out of here till Thursday. Listens good.

Tuesday, Jan. 14, 1919

Has been a nice sunny winter day. This a.m. I made the trip to the "La Roche Vendeix." It is about 4,000 feet altitude and used to be the site of an old castle in the time of the feudal system. Stayed in the Y this p.m. Was too tired from the morning trip to get out this p.m. Was about three miles to the rock and upgrade all the way.

Wednesday, Jan. 15, 1919

Another grand day. Made two trips today and took in the show this evening. Vic Knowles and I went out to the Cascade this a.m. This p.m. we went to the town above here, Saint Saunes. Saw three things of interest here: the site of an old castle and an old Roman arch and church, which were built from stones from the castle. We spent a very pleasant hour in one of the stores there trying to learn a little French from a Frenchman. I bought three cards from him, views of the church, arch and site of the castle.

Thursday, Jan. 16, 1919

I didn't go out today. Spent most of the day at the Y. Nothing unusual today.

Friday, Jan. 17, 1919

I spent today same as yesterday. Couldn't get interested in any magazine this p.m., so bought a French guide for a franc and tried to cipher out a few words.

Saturday, Jan. 18, 1919

Stayed at the hotel this a.m. This p.m. went to the Y and wrote a couple letters. Heard a lecture (Illustrated by movies) on the palace at Versailles near Paris, which was built by Louis XIV and which is to be the place where the coming peace treaty will be signed.

Sunday, Jan. 19, 1919

Went to the church services at the Y this a.m. and wrote a couple letters this p.m. Also sent a package of post cards home: Scenes that I have seen and visited here on my leave. Has been more wintery the last couple days.

Monday, Jan. 20, 1919

I and three of the fellows went for a walk this a.m. Spent the p.m. at the Y. Was an entire new vaudeville show at the Y this evening, and it was good.

Tuesday, Jan. 21, 1919

Had a fall of snow last night and this morning. I stayed at the hotel a.m. This p.m. Vic Knowles and I took a walk out to the petrifying spring but didn't get in to see it. Spent this evening at the Y.

Wednesday, Jan. 22, 1919

Didn't get up for breakfast this morning. First one I've missed since being here. L. Blundon and I took a walk out to the barrage before noon. Was at the Y this p.m. and evening. Show and dance there tonight. I forgot to mention in Monday's account that I got one lively blessing (?) from one of the dining room girls at noon. The boys played a trick on me and it sure worked. By putting something under my plate at breakfast time, unbeknownst to me, and so la la didn't I get it at noon and in French, too. Didn't know what for and couldn't understand, it only a couple words once she called me. She sure was angry. Can see and hear it yes.

Thursday, Jan. 23, 1919

Has been the coldest today that I have experienced here in France. Air has been quite fresh and sharp. Heard an interesting lecture at the Y this a.m. by Professor Ahern on the minerals of USA and a little of France. Took a hike with the crowd to St. Saunes this p.m. Can hear the wind moaning and howling around the corners outside tonight.

Friday, Jan. 24, 1919

Didn't get up till 10:30 this morning and then went downtown for a while. Heard and saw another lecture by the professor this p.m. on scenes from Paris. I also wrote home. Has been quite cold today, froze in our room last night.

Saturday, Jan. 25, 1919

Same old thing today. I got up for breakfast. Funds are getting low, so I can't buy much at the Y anymore. Heard a lecture this p.m. on the population of the U.S. Took in the movies this evening. Also wrote a letter and a couple cards today.

Sunday, Jan. 26, 1919

Went to church this morning. Took in the movies this p.m. and wrote to Hazel. Spent the rest of my spare time reading a book.

Monday, Jan. 27, 1919

Heard a lecture at the Y this a.m. on fuel power of the U.S. Stayed in the hotel till 4:00 this p.m. reading and then went to the Y and saw the movies. Got word that we are to leave at noon tomorrow. We sure had our share of seven day leave. Have been here just three weeks today. Will be glad to get back to my mail, but it will be rather hard to leave a nice white bed, eats, etc. But such is Army life. Now to enjoy another night's sweet sleep in a real bed. When and where will the next be - 40 hommes and eight cherous.

Tuesday, Jan. 28, 1919

Us fellows in the camp and I have to report at the station at 1 p.m. I rolled up my blankets after breakfast and then went downtown and to the Y a while. Had lunch at 11 a.m. and left the hotel for the station about 12:40. Some of the boys were paid last evening, and it certainly showed this noon. Some had to be lead and carried and a few were so far gone that the French brought them down in sleighs. L. Blundon and I got separated from the rest. Our name wasn't on the book, so we got in a car of infantry boys. One sergeant was pretty well stewed but outside of that they were a good bunch. Had box cars to ride in. The train pulled out of La Bourboule about 2:30. I certainly enjoyed the three weeks we spent there. It was after dark when we went through Cleremont. Wouldn't that bed and supper of the hotel go good tonight.

Wednesday, Jan. 29, 1919

It was pretty chilly last night. I didn't sleep much. We are going back the same way we came. Have wooden benches to sit on and a little straw on the floor. We have French bread instead of hard tack. The loaves are baked in the shape of a large doughnut, and we have them tied up to the ceiling of the car like quarters of beef. Some scene when they are all swinging when the car traveling along. It was dark already when we went through Dijon. Got to Is Sur Tile about 9 p.m. and here we stopped. Some of the boys stole some milk and cheese and us fellows made a raid on a coach on an adjoining track and got the cushions out of it. From here we went a little farther to the yard. Got a drink of hot coffee from the Red Cross here. Our train was searched here by M.P. for the milk and cheese, so they say. They relieved us of our cushions, too.

Thursday, Jan. 30, 1919

Still here at the Is Sur Tile yard. I heard that the train is under arrest is why we are lying here. Not very pleasant living here in a cold box car, especially after living in a hotel for three weeks. I have just finished my supper of "box car stew." Wednesday they keep about 50 of the fellows at Is Sur Tile for the theft of the milk and cheese. We left Is Sur Tile at 3 p.m. Were held almost 24 hours through that deal. Passed through Villeguisan a while before dark. Is the first time I've saw it since Sept. 8, 1918. Our training area of last summer.

Friday, Jan. 31, 1919

We made little or not progress last night. Didn't sleep much either. Finally reached Souilly about 1 p.m. Waited around there a couple hours and then rode back with one of our fellows on a truck load of coal. All of us are put in a separate barracks for a seven-day quarantine. Had a lot of mail; a Christmas box and about 36 letters. Have a litter to sleep on tonight; better than the box car but nothing like those nice spring beds of La Bourboule. A few of the fellows are back who left us last fall. Seems good to see them back.

Saturday, Feb. 1, 1919

Had a regular Camp Meade inspection this morning, so we had to do some hustling. Last evening I read my letters till I got sleepy and finished reading them this morning. I sure did enjoy them; lots of news all at once. I wrote home this evening. Gee, this is some cold hole for a fellow to stay in, but guess we'll have to grin and bear it.

Sunday, Feb. 2, 1919

Well, the bear didn't see his shadow today. Besides trying to keep warm today I wrote to Hazel and Laura. Was on guard from 4-6 p.m. Back in the Army again.

Monday, Feb. 3, 1919

Was quite frosty this morning. Us quarantined fellows was out on two short hikes both a.m. and p.m. Between times I wrote three letters. Heard a rumor yesterday which seems to be the best one yet; that we would be going homeward before very long. Sure hope it's true. Hear my service record got back today. Sounds good to me. Will have four months pay coming the last of this month.

Tuesday, Feb. 4, 1919

Went on two hikes today, both a.m. and p.m. Signed up a new clothing slip today as everything is charged to us again. Was issued a new pair of trousers, English style. The 304th Signal Battalion gave a show here last evening; was good.

Wednesday, Feb. 5, 1919

Went for our usual hikes both a.m. and p.m. Had a letter from Homer H [or N] this morning, which he wrote as they were coming into Brest. Said they were going to take back troops. Hope our turn rolls around soon. Wrote home and to Hazel during my spare time.

Thursday, Feb. 6, 1919

Another bunch of fellows got back from leave this morning, so we were released from quarantine, so am with the rest of the company again. Snowed last night. Today it is warmer and slushy. Got some more mail this evening. Wrote to Laura this evening.

Friday, Feb. 7, 1919

A stiff breeze blowing and it is considerably colder, also snowing. I was put on driving ambulance again. Am on Charles Beebe car as he left on a pass. Each driver has an orderly now. We made one trip to Charemont this p.m. Very cold. I don't care much about driving but rather do that than detail duty such as k.p. etc. I wrote home this evening. 

Saturday, Feb. 8, 1919

Was some cold last night, coldest it has been. After inspection (got through okay) this morning, walked over to Pierrefitte after my laundry but it wasn’t dry yet so will wait a couple days. Wrote to Hazel this p.m. Am hugging the stove this evening to keep warm.

Sunday, Feb. 9, 1919

An emergency call came in this morning at 7:00 for all the ambulances possible to report at Lemmes, a town above Souilly. Railroad wreck. I was going to go but the sergeant said I better not start as a bearing is loose on my ambulance. The wreck was exaggerated considerable, so only a couple ambulances went all the way. It was some sharp and frosty last night and today. This p.m. I ran the lizzie up to the shop and took off the bottom, took out the oil first. Four of our cars were laid up today, three with broken rear axles. I went to church this evening.

Monday, Feb. 10, 1919

The cold spell is still hanging on. I tightened up the bearing and put the plate on and oil in and the old hunk of tin was just as musical as ever. So I ran it to one side and will probably go in the shop tomorrow to take the motor out. I helped a couple of the others a little this p.m. Our commanding officer just told us that he saw the sailing list and we are the 14th division on the list; some encouraging. I went to Pierrefitte later this evening and got my laundry. It is cheaper than an American woman would do it. I tried to parley with them a little. The lady's mother was there, and her baby girl, about 5 years old and they were all very sociable. She was a quite little girl. She sprung a surprise on me by counting to ten in English. I started and she finished; 1-2-3-4, etc. to ten. From what little I've seen, "poyer" or home is a very dear place to the French.

Tuesday, Feb. 11, 1919

I didn't get around to work any on my Ford today as the other guy didn't get his out of the shed. It warmed up considerable this p.m. I got three letters this evening and wrote one to Hazel. Had one from her, Laura and William Werderman. Was a show at the hall this evening, but I didn't go.

Wednesday, Feb. 12, 1919

Carl K and I made a trip out to Issencourt this a.m. with Harold K Ford. Carl drove out and I drove back. Each had an extra blanket when we got back. Guess I'll sleep warm if I make a few more trips like that. I got my Ford in the shed this p.m. and worked on it. Got a letter from Laura this evening. Answered it and also wrote another. Has been a beautiful day both above and on the ground.

Thursday, Feb. 13, 1919

Have been working on the lizzie all day. Took out the motor and tightened the bearings. Has been a grand day. I got a letter this evening from Hazel and answered.

Friday, Feb. 14, 1919

Got the old lizzie together again this p.m. but it is just as bad as before so have to operate again. Has been cloudy all day and is raining this evening. I read a while and then played a couple games of Pedro.

Saturday, Feb. 15, 1919

I only worked this a.m. long enough to get out of standing inspection. Was in the barracks most of the p.m. reading. Got a few letters this evening, those I missed when I went to the hospital last Nov. 26. I wrote one this evening.

Sunday, Feb. 16, 1919

Hazel's birthday today. I wrote a couple letters this a.m. and this p.m. sewed my service chevrons and division insignia on my coat. Wrote a couple more letters this evening and went to church.

Monday, Feb. 17, 1919

Worked on the Ford all day and have it most ready to try out again. Played a couple games of pedro with the fellows this evening.

Tuesday, Feb. 18, 1919

Was raining this a.m. A while before noon we tried out the Ford and it pounded as bad as before. So I guess it will go to the MTO. I cleaned up a little this p.m. and read a while. Heard from home and Laura this evening and answered home. Also went to a show.

Wednesday, Feb. 19, 1919

Didn't do anything this a.m. This p.m. we took my ambulance down to Souilly to the MTO for them to fix. Wrote to Laura this evening.

Thursday, Feb. 20, 1919

I was in the barracks all a.m. This p.m. I helped Vern Kerwin take out his motor. We had a few instructions this evening from Captain Rodgers on map reading, etc. Very interesting.

Friday, Feb. 21, 1919

I was helping fix up and repair lizzies all day. Had a letter from home this evening and answered this evening. Is a show here this evening, but I did some sack time.

Saturday, Feb. 22, 1919

All duties were suspended today except those necessary; Washington's birthday. I helped Kerwin a little and some on another car we're fixing. Didn't have to stand inspection this a.m. Had some letters from Laura and one from Hazel this evening. Started to answer Hazel's when M. Schoenburg asked me to take his trip, so I did. Had to take four officers to Souilly to a dance. Only had two blowouts and trouble with the lights. Got back 1:30 a.m. Sunday. It's a wonder to me that those blooming lizzies hang together sometimes. Came very near hitting a horse which some French had on the road.

Sunday, Feb. 23, 1919

Was a nice sunny day. I discovered this morning that I also broke one leaf of the front spring last night. Got one card today. Wrote three letters today and evening.

Monday, Feb. 24, 1919

Helped do repairing again this a.m. and went to Chaumont this p.m. with Vern Kerwin. When we got back I went to the creek and got a can of water and cleaned up a bit. We were to take another fellows trip who had broke down but he got fixed up and was gone before we got back there, so came back. Played pedro this evening.

Tuesday, Feb. 25, 1919

Has been raining all day. I didn't do a blooming thing today except write a couple letters and then took a nap this p.m. Got a couple letters and wrote one this evening. Also went to a show which was a good one. Three American ladies entertained with singing, recitations and violin and piano music. It certainly makes up for the sunshine we don't get in the daytime.

Wednesday, Feb. 26, 1919

Wasn't any busier today than yesterday. Well, I went to Longchamp with Vern Kerwin. This p.m. I wrote a letter. Heard a lecture this evening at the hall. After getting back did a couple rounds of sparring with the gloves.

Thursday, Feb. 27, 1919

Today was a holiday for the 79th Division for they held a horse show here at Pierrefitte. Was raining all day long. I didn't go to show. Our Lt. Williams, who has been our commanding officer since October 1918, is now wearing two bars. I wrote to Laura this evening.

Friday, Feb. 28, 1919

Eckert and I carried us some water from the creek to the infirmary and we enjoyed a good bath this a.m. Helped clean up the ground a bit by the ambulances this p.m. Got four letters this evening. Was an entertainment here this evening. Three ladies and a YMCA man which I took in.

Saturday, March 1, 1919

Was put on the ambulance with Gunther this morning.  Head of it so I can get out more. Have been on the go most all day from here to Chaumont. I gave in my name for the division school. Had a trip out tonight to find a fellow at Issincourt who broke down but we failed to find him so came back.

Sunday, March 2, 1919

I wrote to Hazel this a.m. This p.m. we were out making sick calls to Villers Recourt and Ramblizin. Was the first time I've been through the first two since November. Wrote to Laura this evening. 

Monday, March 3, 1919

Had a letter from Homer Haire this morning and answered it. This p.m. we had a trip to Souilly. Meet and had a little visit with Neil Bennett. First I'd seen him since December at Glorieux. Got four letters which I missed last December. Wrote a couple this evening.

Tuesday, March 4, 1919

Found our ambulance had a broken front spring, shackle holder and a flat tire, so have been working on it all day. Got one finger mashed a little. Went to a show this evening. They pulled a rich one on Major Krouse.

Wednesday, March 5, 1919

We (Gunther W) worked on the ambulance this a.m. Went out on a little trip this p.m. Got back about 6:00. I took a good wash and lay on my bunk and read this evening.

Thursday, March 6, 1919

Didn't do much of anything today. Had one trip this evening to Rembercourt. Paid today, but I haven't got mine yet. Got four letters; three from Laura and one from home. Got word that Graham, McDonald, Beebe and I are to leave tomorrow after some more ambulances, likely GMCs.

Friday, March 7, 1919

Was twelve of us went with Lt. McC. Went to Sebastol barracks, a short distance from Toul. We are to get Fords, expect to leave in the morning. Half of the boys went to Toul this evening, but us four from 315 Ambulance Company stayed and salvaged some parts for our Fords. We are going to sleep on some real Camp Meade cots with mattresses.

Saturday, March 8, 1919

We left Sebastol about 9:30 a.m. with our lizzies. Stopped at Toul and filled with gasoline and then started out. We got split up out of Toul a little way and we didn't go by the way of Void (?). Stopped at Commercy for dinner and then started for Pierrefitte. Got here about 3 p.m. Wrote home and to Laura this evening and then went to bed.

Sunday, March 9, 1919

Was given the job of driving the car I brought in yesterday and Larkins was put with me as orderly. From what I know of him he doesn't appeal to me. May be different from what I think he is. Have been working on the car most all day and now it hardly shows what I've done. McDonald and I made a run over to Ramblizin this evening. Wrote to Hazel when I got back.

Monday, March 10, 1919

Fixed on my car all day, am in fairly good running order now. It rain fine last night.

Tuesday, March 11, 1919

My 24th birthday anniversary today. Made a trip to Souilly today. Took Lt. Robison and three other officers to division headquarters. Got back the middle of the afternoon. We had a lovely day today. One that makes life seem worth the living - if only I was home. No mail today. Warmed up today. Removed my sweater this evening. First I've had it off since last September.

Wednesday, March 12, 1919

Was on the road most all day. The last trip was this evening to Longchamps. Went in McDonald's place as he had a flat tire. Mine blew out on the way to Chaumont. Got two letters this evening; one from Hazel and the other from Aunt Mary.

Thursday, March 13, 1919

After breakfast this morning I changed one of my tires and puttered around a little on the car. This a.m. I wrote to Hazel. About 4 p.m. I got a trip to the division school at Montharion (?), ate my supper there and then came back by the way of Souilly, Heitos (?), etc. Went via Coucover (?), Bemont,, Vaux, Recourt. Wrote a little letter this evening.

Friday, March 14, 1919

I cleaned my motor this a.m. and sat in the barracks to kill time, also wrote a letter. Had a trip to Bar Le Duc this p.m. Is the first time I've been there since the 12th of last September, the day the St. Mihiel drive started and was the day we started for the front. It is a lot more lively now. Was a nice day and a dandy trip.

Saturday, March 15, 1919

Inspection this morning. I got a piece of Major Rogers' mind this morning for turning a little fast making a turn. Guess he was rather grouchy from the after effects of the champagne we brought them from Bar Le Duc yesterday. Had a little trip to Chaumont this evening. We had a reunion of our company this evening. Was some bunch when we all get together. Had a big feed at 6 p.m. and then a few toasts and speeches were given.

Sunday, March 16, 1919

I got my shot this morning, so I'm relieved from the car for a day or so. I got word this p.m. that I am to go to the auto repair school and to go Tuesday. In a way I don't care to go for I don't know what, where and what it will be. But I was given the preference out of four who asked for it, so guess I'll have to go. Saw a few movies here this evening.

Monday, March 17, 1919

Got a "Cootie Bath" this a.m. Sent a German helmet and four post card books home this p.m. Got some mail this evening. Wrote Hazel a letter, also cards to Laura and home.

Tuesday, March 18, 1919

Another day nearer home. I came to the school this a.m. It is to be held east of Souilly about eight kilos at Camp Monthairons. The 310 [ambulance company?] is here also. This is the same identical place we stayed at a couple days last October when moving from the Argonne to Les Esparges. At present we are on the opposite side of the road than then. Things looked pretty discouraging to us when we landed here but am hoping it pans out so I'll get a little out of it. Have a pretty good YMCA hut here and that sure helps relieve the monotony. Wrote a letter home this evening.

Wednesday, March 19, 1919

Got a little start on the school today. I think I'll probably get a little from it yet. Have no retreat nor reveille. Breakfast at 7:00 and taps at 10:00. Have an hour, 8-9 a.m., physical training and drill and then school till noon. P.m. we have to ourselves. Seems lonesome for me here. I read a little of Pershing's life this p.m. and wrote Laura this evening. The lieutenant gave a few instructions on the motor, clutch, magneto and carburetor. 

Thursday, March 20, 1919

Was snowing in good shape this morning and rather chilly. Stopped by noon. He talked on the transmission, differential, axle, drive shaft, etc. We took a short hike this morning. I stayed in the Y a while this p.m. and took a little walk down to the corner by the French canteen. Was a show here this evening.

Friday, March 21, 1919

Had drill and exercises this morning for an hour and then kind of review of what we had the two days previous. I spent a while in the Y this p.m. reading and then went back to our shack and started my washing. First time I've did it myself since December. Was a movie here this evening, "Flirting with Death," five reels. After show I came back and finished my washing.

Saturday, March 22, 1919

Had an hour's school this morning. Was a written quiz of a couple questions. I got a little clearer idea of a gear shift transmission. I went down to Souilly this p.m. A number of the boys went back to their outfits this pm. Snowed and rained all last night. They had supper a half hour earlier tonight and I almost missed mine by being late. I bought this notebook this p.m. guess it's the only store there at present. Was a few Americans in and we spent a few pleasant minutes kidding with a couple mademoiselles at the store. I looked at those German 42cm howitzers this p.m. I wrote to Hazel this evening, also a card to mother.

Sunday, March 23, 1919

I didn't get up till eight bells this morning. Went to church services this forenoon. Spent the p.m. in the Y reading. The boys got back this evening and I got a very welcome bunch of maid. Wrote a couple letters tonight.

Monday, March 24, 1919

We got word this morning that the division is to move to the region of Chaumont and we are to be taken back to our companies today or tomorrow. The lieutenant gave us several notes which we took down on motors, etc. After dinner I started a letter to Hazel but had to leave about 2 p.m. to roll my blankets, etc. Got back to the company about 4 p.m. Seemed good to see the old bunch again. Got another bunch of back mail this evening. Finished the one I started. Heard that we may have to hike all of that trip. Nine of our group have been transferred to the 5th Division on the Rhine, including my partner last on the ambulance. Can't help smiling at what the fellows told me.

Tuesday, March 25, 1919

Started in for a dandy day today but was raining before supper time. I marked some of my belongings this a.m. and wrote a letter to Laura. Got a letter this evening from Uncle Fred. Took in the show this evening by the 311 Machine Gun Battalion and wrote home.

Wednesday, March 26, 1919

Have been awful busy today. Wrote a letter this a.m. and sleep this p.m. Our Capt. Williams had the good news for us this evening that we would get transportation by truck. I got some mail this evening and wrote to Hazel.

Thursday, March 27, 1919

I wrote to Laura this morning and was then put on baggage detail with R. Fields and Harms (?). Fields and I worked a couple hours getting things ready to load. Got word this p.m. that we don't go till Sunday. Our big move day for all of importance have taken place on Sunday. Took a nap this p.m. This evening a number of us lived the war over again.

Friday, March 28, 1919

I didn't do a blooming thing today. Washed a pair of socks this a.m. and sleep this p.m. Got a letter from Hazel today. We spent the evening in singing and having a high old time in general.

Saturday, March 29, 1919

Snowing in good shape this morning, but it changed into a nasty rain and wind storm. Did the same today as yesterday. We're going tomorrow for all I know.

Sunday, March 30, 1919

Rolled my pack the first thing this morning and when the trucks came helped load them. Was noon before all were ready. I and a few others rode in one which was open. Got beau coup fresh air, etc. Snowed all a.m. and occasionally this p.m. But if it was chilly, nasty and wet it was a great lot better than hiking, believe me. It was past noon before we left Pierrefitte. Went by the way of Bar Le Duc, St. Dizaire and then followed the Marne River to Bonjeux then turned off to go to [blank space here], which we reached about 8 p.m. Have a better barracks than we had at Pierrefitte. There are several barracks here as this was a base hospital. Was a nice trip, especially along the Marne River. We unloaded all the property and was [blank space here] before I got to bed.

Monday, March 31, 1919

Farewell to March. Most everybody was rather busy today building a bunker. We built double deckers. Grable, Fields, Eckert and I build us one. Was to the Red Cross a few minutes this p.m. They have a nice long building here. Had a letter from Mother. Wrote to Mother and Laura this evening. Sun shone today.

Tuesday, April 1, 1919

Was a nice day. Sun shone most all day, but last night it froze quite hard. I wasn't on any detail today. Was at the  Red Cross hut part of the time and this evening saw a movie at the Y. Was partly a war scene bringing out the unhuman acts of the Germans, etc. We were paid this evening. Got 5.80 francs on the dollar this time. 

Wednesday, April 2, 1919

I am back in the ranks now, again answering reveille and retreat. Didn't do anything. Only was on ration detail about an hour this p.m. It is more hilly here than at Pierrefitte. Was in town a few minutes this evening and it is quite a nice little burg.

Thursday, April 3, 1919

Drilled an hour and a half this a.m. This p.m. Dixon, Baker and I took a walk in a park adjoining these hospital barracks and town. Is very pretty, has several spring, a thick growth of pine trees, etc. We got most through when an M.P. ran us out. No American soldiers allowed, which we knew so went in from the back way over a stone fence and saw what we could till this guy ran us out. Was on a little detail this evening and then went to the Red Cross but didn't stay long.

Friday, April 4, 1919

Drilled this a.m. then went to the YMCA for a while and got a couple of S&S, came back and read. Wrote a letter to Hazel this p.m. No mail this evening so I went to a musical entertainment at the Red Cross.

Saturday, April 5, 1919

Had inspection this a.m. I stayed around the barracks this p.m. Had a fine day. Went to town this evening and wrote home when I got back. Saw a couple of Frenchmen dress a horse while in town so guess they will have "beau coup" steak for the boys who buy a meal occasionally. Not for me after seeing that.

Sunday, April 6, 1919

I went to the meeting at the YMCA this a.m. Has certainly been a fine day. I went for a walk this p.m. Went out to the cemetery near here where one of our fellows is buried. Took a walk downtown after supper. Came back at 7:00 and wrote to Laura.

Monday, April 7, 1919

Had an hour long drill this a.m. I mailed some maps and cards of Rinacourt at the post office here and by that time it was noon. I took the liberty after dinner to go downtown and get some razor blades at the commissary. Came back and stopped at the Y. Went to the show this evening.

Tuesday, April 8, 1919

Drilled this a.m. Heard that I leave tomorrow again for the auto repair school. I went to the Y this p.m. and saw some more movies. Went to a show at the Red Cross this evening. No mail today, so I expect I'll have to wait a few days for some through going to the school.

Wednesday, April 9, 1919

I didn't go out for drill this morning. Rolled my pack instead and just before noon an order came in revoking the order to go to the school. Things are pointing to a move soon. I went through a delousing plant after dinner. Was a good outfit so I guess some of lice lost a good happy home if I had any. Our sea mail came in this p.m. Got five for my share. Wrote Hazel this evening.

Thursday, April 10, 1919

Got orders this morning at reveille to turn in all but three blankets - see where I'll feel those slats tonight. Drilled this a.m. Wrote a couple letters this p.m. and got one each from Laura and Hazel. Washed my clothes this evening. Got two blankets back again this p.m. Is a little rainy this evening. My mother's birthday today.

Friday, April 11, 1919

We rehearsed a few times today the doings of tomorrow. I wrote a letter between times. Tried pressing a few clothes this evening.

Saturday, April 12, 1919

Got up about 5:30 this morning and left here a little past 6:00. Went in trucks to the review grounds about 10 kilos from here. We were inspected and reviewed by Gen. Pershing and then hiked back. Got back about 5:30 p.m. Was a nasty cold rainy day but am glad I had the opportunity to be there. Was within an arm's length of the general. First time I ever saw him. Had a letter from Laura this evening and wrote one home. Feel rather tired tonight.

Sunday, April 13, 1919

No reveille this morning. Breakfast at 8:00. It has rained most all day. I wrote to Hazel this p.m. Went to the Red Cross this evening and heard Miss Wilson sing. Sure enjoyed the evening. She was at Camp Meade, too. But I never had the opportunity to see or hear her there.

Monday, April 14, 1919

Was relieved of drill today, a holiday for the 79th Division for some reason. I wrote to Laura this a.m. Sleep this p.m. and went to the Red Cross this evening.

Tuesday, April 15, 1919

Was more or less rainy all day and windy, too. Blew hard enough one spell to unroof a couple barracks. I was on a little detail loading litters, blankets, etc. The division is turning in all combat property as fast as possible now. It is ordered to be all in by the 24th. Our office has received instructions to proceed homeward - steps to go through. Two to four train loads are going out of here every day; horses, mules, wagons, etc. Went to the Red Cross this evening and saw a movie, "The Darling of Paris." They made out a new duplicate of the 5.00 allotment in the office this evening to send again as the one I made out in September has not been heard from.

Wednesday, April 16, 1919

Didn't drill this a.m., too rainy I guess. Looks like I'll have to go to Camp Custer to be discharged, according to the office. I went to the Y a while this p.m. I see I am on guard tomorrow night, acting corporal. I went for a walk this evening all by myself. Walked to the next town and back, Andelot. I saw a man and a girl plowing, looked like she was his daughter and the ones who got the garbage from here. She was holding the plow and he driving the horses. But such scenes here are common, the women doing the heavy work.

Thursday, April 17, 1919

No drill today. Had to turn in all but three blankets today. Got orders that we are to leave next Tuesday at 4 a.m. when the train leaves here. Heard we go to Nantes a short distance east of St. Nazaire. Some ride, especially if we have "side door pullmans." Hearing all kinds of news that we will be in the U.S. by June 1, etc. Am on guard tonight and tomorrow. Wrote to Hazel this p.m.

Friday, April 18, 1919

Finished guard this p.m. Wrote a letter home this a.m. and took a bath at Rimancourt while off duty. Got three letters this p.m. Went to the Y this evening. Saw a picture I've seen before. Had a good drying day today.

Saturday, April 19, 1919

Had inspection this morning and then I washed a couple towels and a pair of socks. Heard today that we don't leave here till Friday. Some of the division is starting to leave today. I wrote to Laura this p.m. and went to the Y this evening to a movie showing "Nelson's Life at Sea."

Sunday, April 20, 1919

No reveille this morning. Attended the services at the Red Cross this a.m. Took a little nap after dinner and then Mills, Kuntsman and I went for a walk on the hill near here. Had a good bird's eye view of this vicinity. Saw a movie at the Y this evening, "Lest We Forget." Had a letter from Hazel this p.m.

Monday, April 21, 1919

No drill this a.m. so I took a nap. Wrote to Hazel after dinner and then took a walk around camp. More troops leaving this p.m. Two trains are leaving every day. Harold Kuntsman and I went to the Red Cross to a minstrel show by the 304th Engineers. Was nine months ago that we landed at Brest. Signed the payroll this evening.

Tuesday, April 22, 1919

No drill today. Played checkers and read this a.m. Harold Kuntsman and I took a walk to the north of here to the cemetery. Looked up Hammelp's grave and then climbed the hill or small mountain north of the cemetery. Had a swell view from the top. Went to the Red Cross this evening to a movie, "The Ragged Princess."

Wednesday, April 23, 1919

Routine about the same as yesterday. Had a letter from home this p.m. and answered this evening. The captain read some orders and rules we are to obey while on the trip. Guard is taken from our company; Twenty of us, of which I am one.

Thursday, April 24, 1919

Been busy today getting ready for the move tomorrow morning. Went to the Y this evening. Supposed to leave before daylight in the morning.

Friday, April 25, 1919

We got out at 1:30 this a.m. and after a bit went down and got on the train. Then the Red Cross and Y gave us a cup of chocolate and a sandwich. Started out about 4:30. This guard is sure some snap. Am on the last car, ten of us occupying the whole car. Have plenty of straw, so we are traveling like lords this time compared to last July when we went from Brest to Villeguisen. We went through Chaumont, Villeguisen, Dijon about noon, St. Jeane Becine (?). We're enjoying ourselves, waving a last fond farewell to the people as we pass by. When it got too dark to see we made us a bed in the straw and went to sleep.

Saturday, April 26, 1919

I sleep good last night, really better than for the last three weeks at Rimacourt. After it was daylight I got up to take in the scenery again. Soon after I got up we passed through Brouges. We must have passed through Nevers last night. The next towns we went through are Vierzon, Menneton, Gierres. Here is where the U.S. has a large supply base. Are eight miles of warehouses and yards here. The country here is sandy, looks like it was covered with pine scrubs and brush before the U.S. took it over. From Dijon on one sees a large amount of grape vines and the land gets more level. The next place of importance we hit is St. Pierre near Tours. The U.S. has yards, etc. here, too. From here on we went down the Loire River valley sometimes right side of it and then again quite a distance from it. On one side of the road the people have built their houses right in the rocks of the hillside like cliff dwellers. After it got dark again we turned in again and found ourselves at Nantes when we woke up in the morning. I enjoyed this trip the most of any in France for we had more comforts than ever before. Was a whole U.S. train except the last car for the crew, which was German. We hiked about five kilos after getting off the train to a suburb of Nantes. Are quartered in a barn.

Sunday, April 27, 1919

I got a little ahead here. Have chicken-wire bunks with beau coup bedsacks and straw. Have heard that we won't probably be here over two weeks. Spent this p.m. getting fixed up a bit and took a walk. The name of this burg is Roussiau. Learned this evening that we are one of the first organizations of the division to go back.

Monday, April 28, 1919

Not much of anything doing today. I got a bath this p.m. and did my washing. Took a walk over to the Chateau gardens this p.m. and wrote to Hazel. Was on guard tonight.

Tuesday, April 29, 1919

Had an inspection of our equipment and clothes this a.m. I am to get a new coat and trousers and turn in some things. Harold Kuntsman and I went for a walk as far as the river; is as far as we are allowed to go. I wrote home and to Laura this evening.

Wednesday, April 30, 1919

Was CO (kp) today, almost a new job to me; first time since last October at Camp Montharcon east of Souilly. Had a letter from home and one from Laura today. Forgot to mention yesterday that I saw a French civilian funeral. Capt. Hansen left in the evening for England and then to the Army of Occupation. He is sure a fine fellow, a real commander. He gave us a talk before leaving.

Thursday, May 1, 1919

None of us were allowed out in town today. Is a Labor Day for the French. Wasn't allowed out for fear the Americans would get in a riot with the French. Been lying in my bunk most all day. All the companies were called up to headquarters this evening to hear a few farewell words from Col. Shackleford (?), who is going to the 5th Division. Had two letters from Hazel this p.m.

Friday, May 2, 1919

I went to the dentist this morning but nothing doing anymore. Washed my web equipment this p.m. Also wrote to Hazel.

Saturday, May 3, 1919

Had a little inspection this a.m. I lay in my bunk most all the rest of the day. Wrote a card this p.m. to each Laura and Mother. We were to be paid this evening, but it was postponed till tomorrow a.m. (guess why). Harold Kuntsman, C. Youkim (?) and I took a walk downtown this evening. The latest I've heard is that we'll be out of France in two weeks.

Sunday, May 4, 1919

Was paid this a.m. This p.m. I took a walk downtown. Seemed like an American city in some ways. Took a walk downtown again this evening. Our company presented Capt. Williams and Lt. Brennen each with a dandy leather traveling bag and they were very much pleased. Most all the boys were feeling pretty good tonight; Some not getting in till midnight.

Monday, May 5, 1919

We sure had one grand day. I slept a while this a.m. Went in to Nantes this p.m. Rode on the trolley car; seemed a little like being back in the U.S. Went through the cathedral and went through the business part of the city. Have some real nice stores, etc. Was issued a new blouse and trousers this evening and sewed the insignia and stripes on.

Tuesday, May 6, 1919

Was room orderly today. Took most of the a.m. cleaning up and this p.m. I fixed a few of my clothes. Went downtown this evening. Got two letters this p.m.

Wednesday, May 7, 1919

We had a preliminary inspection this a.m. Had a company picture taken this noon. I got a few letters this p.m. Took a walk downtown this evening; came back and went to bed at 8:00. Having delightful summer weather these days, roses are in full bloom and all nature is getting at its best.

Thursday, May 8, 1919

I was on guard from 1 o'clock this morning. Had to go through the process of inspection again this morning. Hear we are to have our final Saturday a.m. I went into Nantes this p.m. Had an ice cream at the YMCA. First one in many a month. Also got me a $20 postal money order.

Friday, May 9, 1919

Was busy more or less today getting ready for tomorrow's inspection. I did a washing this a.m. Weather was so nice that it dried in a couple hours. I rolled my pack this p.m. Got an extra blanket from Vern Kerwin so have my pack rolled anyhow.

Saturday, May 10, 1919

Had a dandy morning for our inspection; couldn't been better. Rain of last evening cooled it off and it was still cloudy this a.m. but no rain. This p.m. John McKinnis and I went down to Nantes; had a bath and looked around a little. Am tired this evening, so am staying in. Think the 304th Sanitary Train passed inspection OK; at least we (315 Company) passed OK.

Sunday, May 11, 1919

I've been lying on my bunk most all day. This evening Bland, Harm, Eckert and I went for a walk. Weather is so nice, and nature is getting into her best. Seems rather tough to be killing time here like this. Heard rumor that we  will leave here Tuesday or Wednesday.

Monday, May 12, 1919

We had a meeting this a.m. to start an association but not much did as yet. I went into Nantes this p.m. and changed a few more francs into a P.O. money order. Heard officially this evening that we leave here (Nantes) Wednesday a.m. at 11:00 for St. Nazaire.

Tuesday, May 13, 1919

Part of the company worked a little more on the association this a.m. I did bunk fatigue the rest of the day. Rolled my pack this evening again. I dug out a couple old bed ticks for cover tonight. Harm, Bland and I went for a walk this evening. It doesn't seem real that we are so near leaving Nantes.

Wednesday, May 14, 1919

Got up at five bells this morning and after cleaning up the billet hiked to Nantes and left about 11:30 a.m. Arrived at the camp at St. Nazaire at 4 p.m. Had supper and then a physical inspection. I hear we go out tomorrow. Here's hoping so. This camp is right side of the ocean, nice and cool here. Is raining this evening. The water is very quiet.

Thursday, May 15, 1919

It didn't go as we thought today. After breakfast we were put through the delousing plant at the rate of 500 an hour and then put in barracks in Camp #1. This p.m. McDonald and I were on detail filling lyster bags and guarding the water at a couple wash houses. Have some system here for feeding. Sure can feed a bunch in a short time. Took in some movies at the Y this evening. Hear we go on the ship tomorrow a.m.

Friday, May 16, 1919

After eating breakfast this morning we got outside with our packs and after more or less stalling around went to the dock and loaded on about two o'clock p.m. Name of this ship is Shoshone. It was a German ship and was interned by the U.S. at the outbreak of the war. Was used in the Merchant Marine and was recently converted into a transport. Is a small ship, about 350 feet long and has 1,380 troops on board. The tug started us off at 2:00 this p.m. And in an hour and half we were underway by the ship's own power. Just before dark this evening we saw a last glimpse of France. I have been sitting on the forward deck this evening and am going to bed now. Are pretty well crowded sleeping four deep. I am on a top bunk. This is the first trip for this ship as a transport.

Saturday, May 17, 1919

This old ship sure has been one bucking bronco today, and no storm either, just a stiff breeze blowing. Was some bunch of feed for the fish went overboard today. Had a dose myself this forenoon. Thought I was getting away fine, but had to go around the forward end of the ship in the juice line and had peaches and oatmeal, bread and coffee. I ate my peaches, took one swallow of coffee, and that did it! I ate a little dinner and for supper I ate dogs, sour kraut, bread, jam, potatoes, mustard and cabbage. Feeling fine tonight.

Sunday, May 18, 1919

The sea was more quiet this morning than last evening, but after dinner it got rougher again. Saw a few whale in the distance this a.m. The sea has calmed down considerable this evening and we have ran into a heavy fog. The whistle has been blowing about every minute. We passed a sail boat this noon. Hasn't been so much sickness today. Am feeling good myself.

Monday, May 19, 1919

The fog cleared away late last evening. A heavy gale has been blowing all day, causing a very rough sea. The ship has sure been pitching and rolling and no let-up yet. The bow and forward end have been washed by the waves all day. I lost my breakfast this morning, but ate a little dinner and supper. No sea life for me. Have sure got my fill today. Have spent most of the day on my bunk. Several of the fellows are sick but not so bad as Saturday.

Tuesday, May 20, 1919

The storm has continued most all day until this p.m. when the wind let up a bit, but this evening it seems to increase in velocity. Are getting wireless news now about the U.S. and British planes crossing the Atlantic. As I understand it the U.S. has reached the Azores. Also got a report that one steamer has lost part of her propeller from the fury of the storm. Have passed two ships today, one right after dinner and one this evening, just a few minutes ago; 9 p.m. now. All we could see were the lights and flashes as it signaled with us. Is some different than last July; all was in darkness then. I have been sitting on the rear of the ship a while this evening. Some sensation to get the full benefit of the ship pitching and plunging. Seems like the ship would go to the bottom of the sea when the bow is down. I've been outside more today than yesterday. We are getting the best of feed on this trip.

Wednesday, May 21, 1919

I've been on detail today, swabbing decks. Didn't see any passing ships, just water and sky, except a couple gulls this p.m. The sea has moderated a little this evening but this evening quite a stiff wind is still blowing, and raining, too. We got some wireless news today about the trans-Atlantic planes, saying one has been lost.

Thursday, May 22, 1919

I have been out on deck a good share of the day. We passed two ships today, both freighters. One early this morning and the other a couple hours later. Saw several porpoises today. Is quite interesting to watch them leap out of the water. They would come right up to the ship and follow along for quite a distance. The sea has been about the same as yesterday, but this evening it is much quieter and we seem to be making good time.

Friday, May 23, 1919

The sea has been very calm all day and have had a nice day, except late this p.m. and evening when it rained a little. I have been sitting on deck all day. Passed one freighter this a.m. and late this p.m. over took and passed a small sailboat. Heard one of the crew say this a.m. that we were 1,268 knots out from France. We're having a rather heated argument between ourselves this evening concerning our work, etc., in the war.

Saturday, May 24, 1919

I have been out on deck most all day. Was reading a book this a.m. This p.m. a few of the boys gave us a little music with a couple violins, drum and trombone. We caught up to and passed a freighter this evening, so guess this isn't the slowest ship yet. A stiff breeze has been blowing from the northeast all day and also a little rain fell.

Sunday, May 25, 1919

It certainly has been a peach of a day. The sea has been the quietest today it has been since we started. Have spent most of the day on deck, sure was swell lying in the sun and watch the water. Passed a steamer and two sailboats, both eastbound. One sailboat passed us within a hundred feet. Could see New York painted on her stern. This non we were about 1,500 miles from U.S. and have traveled a little over 1,800 (?).

Monday, May 26, 1919

Has been the same old thing today, one vast expanse of sea and sky. I never saw the sea so quiet as this morning; not so much as a ripple disturbed the water, but later a breeze sprang up. A large two-stack steamer passed us today. Also saw another in the distance and saw a sailboat. I lay on the deck this a.m. and finished my book. Visited this p.m. with Chet Myers. Have seen more or less seaweed in the water today. Looks like we may be in the Gulf Stream. This noon we were 1,329 miles from land and made 254 during the last day.

Tuesday, May 27, 1919

I am having the good fortune to have a felon started on my left thumb, and from last evening on it hasn't lost a minute entertaining me. The sea has been quite rough today, but the weather was very warm.

Wednesday, May 28, 1919

Passed a freighter this morning going in a southeast direction. All I can do now is walk around and lie down. Keep changing off to forget the pain in my hand. The ship's officers got word last night that we are to land at Philadelphia. This noon we had 1,007 miles yet to go. The sea isn't quite as rough today as yesterday. A ship passed in the distance this evening. Could just see the stack and two masts.

Thursday, May 29, 1919

I rested a little last night. Had my thumb lanced this morning and that was still more relief from the pain. I lay on my bunk part of the day and part of the day on deck. Is a little cooler than a couple days ago. The sea has been rather moderate today. Passed three freighters this evening all going east. This noon we were 829 miles from Philadelphia.

Friday, May 30, 1919

I sleep pretty good last night. Have been on deck most all day, too stuffy down by our bunks. Have been on the water two weeks today. They report now that we'll probably arrive Monday morning. Had 592 miles to go yet this noon. Been having a wind from the north today but is dying down this evening. We passed an eastbound steamer this noon.

Saturday, May 31, 1919

Sure had one beautiful morning. The sea is very calm but not smooth like a few days ago. Last evening is the first sunset I've watched since being on the ship. Was very beautiful. My thumb bothered a little last night. Doctor said this morning that it would have to be cut open more, but I persuaded him to wait till tomorrow.

Sunday, June 1, 1919

I had my thumb cut open more this a.m. Is better now. Our C.O., Capt. Williams, told us last evening that the executive officer of the ship told them that he would have us at the dock at 5 p.m. today. Could see no land this morning when we got up but I shaved, etc., first thing and then rolled my pack. About 8 a.m. we saw a faint glimpse of land to the northwest. Joy, America at last. Keep getting clearer right along. About 1 p.m. we entered the mouth of the Delaware River. There sure was some blowing of whistles, cheering, etc. Crowds of people all along the river banks. We sure were one happy mob. The people gave us a wonderful welcome, much better than I ever expected. A few of the boys relatives came out in boats to meet us. We docked about 4:30 p.m. and soon got off. We were given some ice cream, cake and coffee by the Red Cross and then got on a train for Camp Dix in New Jersey. Believe me that ice cream sure did taste good. Got at Camp Dix about 10 p.m. and finally got in a barracks. Got some supper and then flopped. It sure is great to get back into a real old American camp again. Some different than life in France. Thus endeth my experience in the war in France. Now to wait for my discharge and civilian life and a long looked for a visit home.

Finis

Monday, Jan. 29, 1973

I started to recopy this diary in the winter of 1969 and 1970 and have just finished now at this date. Some of it was getting hard to figure out and once or twice I have missed the name of a town. We stayed in Camp Dix a few days and then us Michigan fellows were sent to Camp Custer in Michigan for discharge. I think I was discharged on June 14, 1919, and got home in New Haven midnight of June 14, 1919. My discharge is on record at the Macomb County seat in Mt. Clemens.