Letter to L V Rosser from Maurice Moon

Letter to L V Rosser from Maurice Moon

Writes complaining about the state of the war. Mentions casualties and their effect on him and others. Describes the crash that killed Sergeant Ian Hay (748459). Comments on incorrect news about himself but he was obviously still alive.

1941-08-26

Three page handwritten letter and envelope

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EMoonMRosserLV410826

THIRSK YORKSHIRE 7 – PM 26 AUG 41

Sgt. L.V. Rosser,
Sgts. Mess, R.A.F.
Linton-on-Ouse,
Nr. York

[inserted] Maurice Moon [/inserted]

[page break]

Topcliffe
Tuesday,

Dear Vic

Many thanks for your letter which reached me here today. Your news is pretty grim and makes me think more than ever what a bloody stupid war this is. When fellows like Johnny and Snow-white and kids like[indecipherable word] and Ian Hay just get written off like that things have reached a hell of a state.

As you say however, it is possible that Johnny and the boys will be alright and we may learn before long that they have been taken prisoner.

It is exceptionally rough for Snow-white's wife in her present condition and I hope she can take it.

[page break]

2/

Ian Hay's exit was a pretty ghastly affair and knocked me physically sick. He had just become air-borne when something screwy happened and the kite slipped out of the sky on her port side. Almost before we realised what had happened a huge fire told us the worst.

I haven't been exceptionally keen on flying since that day.

There was every reason for you to believe that I too had gone out of circulation so there is no need for you to blame yourself for passing the "duff gen" on to Joyce.

I wrote to her on Sunday and explained that I was still kicking vigorously.

[page break]

3/

Her reply reached me with your letter this morning so everything is now O.K. in that respect.

If everything goes to plan, I shall be in York on Saturday evening, but apart from that you can expect me popping up at any odd time when days off after "ops" permit, etc.

So until I see you again old boy cheerio, and good luck.

Your old pal

Maurice