Zeddie P. Barron Letters to Wife, September - October 1943

Containers:

07.0077 - Box 1, Folder 005

Scope and content:

This folder contains more personal letters. Barron discusses the marches that he must go on, chlorine and mustard gas drills, and target practice with the Carbine rifle. He is unable to receive any more newspapers from Rome (GA), and he explains his progression in preparing to ship overseas. The soldier who sleeps next to Barron is hospitalized for failing to put on his gas mask in time during a chlorine gas drill. He sternly rebukes his wife for suggesting that she take in boarders at their home in order to make extra money. He also mentions the famous Fort Knox gold vault, which he is not impressed by. British and Canadian soldiers take up residence in Fort Knox, and Barron states that they are veterans of the Battle of Britain and Dunkirk. Barron asks for extra soap for Christmas after having heard that it was extremely valuable on the European front and could sell for several dollars a bar. He is made one of the two clerks of his company. In early October he completes his training, is promoted to Private First Class, and departs from Fort Knox by train.

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