Editor’s note: By May 14, 1940 German forces by-pass the formidable French “Maginot Line” and invade France. The following day The Netherlands surrenders to Germany. The RAF begins night bombing of Germany. By late May, the German SS uses Polish prisoners of war to begin construction of the concentration camps known as Auschwitz and Auschwitz II–Birkenau, where about 1.3 million people will be killed between September 1941 and late 1944–approximately 1125 people per day.
Editor’s note: Air Corps records indicate that Cy would have been assigned to the 27th Bombardment Group (Light), as a 1st Lieutenant at Barksdale, flying A-20 Light Bombers.
5/22/40
Lake Breeze, Tx.*
Honey:
I’m spending the night out here with Tom and Mag and Tim and Betty Bradley. We all miss you a great deal. I shall drive up to Barksdale* with Tom and Mag in the morning.
Precious, get this straight. I bought the car today from:
A.B. Poe Motor Company
900 Broadway
San Antonio, Texas
Attn. Mr. Darby
It is in your name and Mr. Darby will send you the Texas licenses and a letter requesting your signature, for identification at the factory.
For the time being:
- Sign “application for Certificate of Title” at point marked xx in pencil (signature of owner). Be sure none of signature is below black line border, as this part is photostatted and must not extend past the edges. Use “Mary Martha Willis” as that is the name on all records.
- Sign form 51 over “signed _________________” Owner
- Send both forms to Mr. Darby by Air Mail. Delivery will be about June 10th. Mr. Darby will advise you.
- Send me both the rail and air fare Chicago to Detroit.
How’s the dough holding out. Acknowledge receipt of this letter, precious.
Lots of love, Your husband
*Willis, Tx, north of Houston.
**Shreveport, La.