Thread by @BattlefieldBen

December 15, 1944 (Germany)

Dearest Family,
You must consider my writing is for the benefit of you all. The opportune time for writing is sparse to say the least.

Tonight I am in my foxhole which has a log roof. The log roof primarily serves as protection for artillery

but also with it one may have a light. Candles are the fashionable things here in the ETO. I'm getting along just fine, no gripes or complaints of course, living in a foxhole isn't the nicest place in the world. But that ole civilian saying applies, "This is war."

Just don't worry about me I'm getting along swell. My biggest worry and trouble over here is the men in my platoon. Believe me, I have the best damned platoon in the world but still men have to be fed, clothed and sheltered and that is my problem.

Daylight begins here at 8:15 and darkness falls at 4:30 so if one expects to do anything he almost has to do it on the double. Received an exceptionally sweet letter from Sara today. Thanks a lot honey. I sincerely hope you and Joseph are happy.

Shall endeavour to write you a letter in the near future.

We have another new Co. Commander. This one is a West Pointer. Can't tell from the short observation how he might be. Dickman has been in the hospital because of influenza but has returned today.

We are right on the German-Belgium border at the present. In fact, I have one machine gun in Belgium and one in Germany. Quit an oddity, huh! This is very beautiful country but gee whiz it is cold. There has been snow on the ground continuously since our presence.

We (the Officers) received a liquor ration the other day. I sorta hate to but I gave all of mine to my men. Well, they deserve it more than I.

Believe me, I shall have some phenomenal experiences to pass on to you upon my return.

I believe I told you before but I'm in the First Army now so keep your eye on them.

This is about it for now.

Hoping sincerely this finds you all well. Please don't worry this Holloway kid is doing alright. Love your letters so keep them coming.

All my love,
Larry

It’s his last letter he wrote home..

Lt. Holloway mentioned nothing about recent enemy activity that had drawn the attention of almost everyone in his company. For two days, the men had listened to the constant thrum of vehicles moving behind the German lines. The enemy camp bustled with preparations.

The men sent reports up the chain of command, but the messages alarmed nobody at higher headquarters. The sounds probably indicated that a new enemy outfit had arrived and was relieving frontline troops. Strictly routine. Nothing to fret about!

Thank you to Gerard Overweg for sharing the letter and photographs. We are lucky that the Holloway family have allowed this to be shared.