8/22/44: From August 8-22, the Allies under Bradley, Patton and Montgomery execute a plan to encircle the German troops in Normandy in the Falaise-Argentan pocket . This plan is successful, resulting in the death of 10,000 Germans and the capture of 50,000 more.
8/23/44
Darling:
I was away 2 days and came back to find I have been made assistant to a little Jewish boy whom I rank by years. I shall see the boss tomorrow. I am God damn sick and tired of the horseshit I’ve had to eat in recent months.
Saw Van last night. He is in a fighter group—but naturally I met him in a bar miles from the front.
Wish I could have been there to help you get settled. It sounds good to hear about some of our stuff again. Your over-stuffed mahogany idea sounds good.
If you can, get a plywood (in place of beaverboard) back put on the book case with brass wood screws. Then shellac the works. Mother will know how. She’s an expert at that.
Had a 1/3 bottle of Scotch a couple of nights ago. Two of the infantrymen I was in the hospital with had a reunion party. They are on limited service (due to wounds) and can’t get a job or get home. A captain in a Base section made some remarks about my language, and the doughboys just damn near took him to pieces.
I love you—write more, baby. Cy.