This is the last letter from Jack. I’m left with so many unanswered questions. Did he survive the war? What happened to baby Julie (who would be 80ish now)? Did Eileen and Julie move to Canada to be with him? Real life, unlike TV shows and books doesn’t seem to wrap endings up in nice little bows so you know how things go.

I’ve included some photos at the end, but also there’s a post card kind of letter that was sent only 3 days after he sent this – what I’m assuming last – letter here to my grandparents. It’s definitely a different kind of letter .

I’ll miss Jack and his letters. These have been a real surprise for me and I’ve felt honoured to be able to read them and share them.

God Bless you Jack. Thank you for your service.

CPL J.S. Martin

6 Platoon Support Coy

Calgary HIghlanders

C.A.O.

20th Oct. 1944

Holland

Dear Folks

Here I am again with a little news from out here. Things have been a little static lately, and we are sitting tight at present. So there hasn’t been a great deal of excitement, at least not for me.

If the weather would clear up, it would help a great deal, but it rains very eerily at this time of year here, not only is it miserable for us infantry men, but it holds up the typhoons.

Gee you should see these boys go in. They really blast them again and after being in England so long and seeing the Jerry bombs come and go, and the long range guns from Calais bombard the costal towns, I just love it. I bet they make Jerry wonder why he ever started this war.

The papers have been full lately of how soon the war will finish, but it wouldn’t surprise me to see it go on until after the New Year. I would like to be home for Christmas, but I’m not very hopeful.

I am keeping very well at present, and doing fine. I guess you will be surprised at my splurge of writing as this is my third letter to you within a week. But seeing that at present I am not very busy, I thought it would be a good idea to catch up on my letter writing. I was sorry to hear about you being in hospital. I hope it wasn’t very serious and that you are all better now. The parcel you mentioned sending with shaving soap etc hasn’t arrived yet. Hope it comes along as I am just about out.

I hear them calling to come and get it. So I guess I had better hustle and draw my hardtack.

Will write you again soon. Hoping everyone is well and that this will be over soon.

Blessings to all

Sincerely

Jack

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