Letter to mum and dad from Bill

Letter to mum and dad from Bill

Writes of receiving news news that Bob was missing. Mentions waiting period is hard but there was always a good chance of him being safe, Speculates on future and urges them not to lose heart. PS news of Joe being a prisoner of war but news took two months to arrive.

1943-06-28

Two page handwritten letter

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EBakerRBaker[Fam]430628

[air force crest]
Kirkham 28/6/43

Dear Mum & Dad,
I have received Maud’s letter today in which she tells me that last Saturday you received official information that Bob was missing.
I am terribly shocked to hear this very bad news and sincerely hope you will soon receive some good news concerning Bob’s safety.
The waiting period is so very hard to bear, but it is as well to remember that while no definite information of his whereabouts is at hand, there is always a very good chance of him being safe.
You may remember that the Red Cross people told Joe’s mother it was not often they heard any news until about six weeks had elapsed, owing to the many different channels through which the information has to pass before it finally reaches them.
Whatever the future may bring, you will know you have a son of whom you must be very proud. When his country was in danger, to do his duty in protecting her, he went forward and
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volunteered for a most dangerous job. I feel his loss as if he were my own brother.
Do not lose heart or give up hope, there is every chance of him being alive and well, and, quite possibly, in friendly hands.
I join you in prayers that God will bring Bob safely back to us.
Bill
P.S. Have just received Maud’s letter, telling me Joe is safe but a prisoner, and this very good news, but you will see it has taken two months to get this! B