Letter to Jesse from Glenn Brooks

Letter to Jesse from Glenn Brooks

He writes that he recently arrived in the UK and is staying in a hotel with excellent food. He went to see his cousins on a farm. The weather is mild. He has met two folk from Bowmanville. He asks after Jesse's family.

1944-01-23

One double sided handwritten sheet

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EBrooksGWVanNestJ440123-0001, EBrooksGWVanNestJ440123-0002

23 Jan 1944: Dear Jesse. On letterhead – Christian Science Rest Room for H.M. and Allied Forces
[Ed. Jesse Van Nest is his mother’s brother and the uncle living closest to him. “H.M. and Allied Forces” means His Majesty’s and all other armed forces, including the Americans.]
Just a line to say that I'm still alive and doing fine. Arrived over here on my 21st birthday, December 21st. I am now stationed in the southern part of England. I can't tell you where. It is a beautiful spot, a summer resort with lovely edge and flower gardens. The Jerries haven't messed it up much.
We are billeted in hotels and our food is excellent. I understand it's not as nice when we leave here. I have just finished a one week course and may take another three week course soon.
Six days leave was granted me about three weeks ago. I went to Jack Brooks’ farm in Somerset. They showed me a grand time and I met many of my cousins. They have a large place with several horses and most anything you could wish. If I can manage to get six days more soon, I am going to see Dora's brother who is stationed about 500 miles away.
The weather here is quite mild, like you get in May at home. They don't know what snow is and seldom get any frost.
Have met several fellows from Bowmanville and saw Jack Baker from Solina the other night. He is with the army here.
Well, according to all reports, the Ford didn't do so well. I should have checked on that water but it's just one of those things. Thanks a million for looking after it Jesse. It really didn't owe me much anyway. We certainly enjoyed our visit with you although it was rather hurried. Hope to be able to stay longer the next time we see you.
War news is very good today, Allies almost to Rome. I believe it will be a while yet before we are homeward bound. Germany is taking an awful beating. It must be God awful over there.
My mail is rather slow coming through. Have received about 15 letters since I arrived, most of them forwarded from Halifax. I got one airmail letter from Dora in five days but that was exception to the average. Received a card from Arnott and Mary the other day, posted about the 8th of December.
The English people treat us fine over here, but they can't give us much to eat because of rationing. I have become used to the blackout but it was rather awkward at first. One soon gets so he can see in the dark like your cat. They stop almost every hour over here for their cup of tea, can't think of getting along without it. They drink a lot of beer over here, pubs open on Sunday. It's very poor beer and the price is high so I very seldom even touch it.
Well Jesse there isn't anything more to say. I hope Eileen, Brian and Kingsley are all well. Give my best to Norm and Elmira. Hope Elmira is up and around by now. Write when you have time.
Sincerely Glenn