Wm W. GREEN, A.S.
Sick BAY- 431
U.S.N.T.S.
BAiNBRiDGE, M.D.


MRS. RUBY GREEN
c/o DiANA SHOP
ALBANY, GA.

April 24, 1943


Cord memorandem pad
Bread
Sugar


1943

FRiDAY-APR-23rd

Dearest Mother:-
Hello again. Feel ashamed I Havent
Written you more but hope you understand
my shortage of stationery. Really though there
is nothing to say. Have written Leet about
all there is and know she has passed it on
to you.

Signed my first papers today and that
Means Ill be heading home in about a week
and then to the Army in a month or so. It
does hurt to have to come back and it hurts
here as we are confined worse than if in a
pen it seems. There are plenty disgusted men
here and the other boys sometimes makes
cracks at us as if we were a bunch of
idiots or such. But we make the best of
it and do have a jolly good time in our
limited way.
I know the Army will take us as
They O.K.ed us in first place. I will go
Back on the list and be called again in
A month or so.
Have written to Mr. Gibson telling
Him would be returning soon and wanted
to go to work soon as I could. Should e
around the 1st I suppose. Surely hope so.

-2-

Want to engage some good biscuits on first
Sunday I am back. Want to see what the taste
Like again. Our meals are quite good but sure
Miss my home cooking. Also want to taste a
Coca Cola again. Havent had one since last
Sunday morning. It gave me a thrill last nite
Just to see a Coca Cola sign.
Went to a real good stage show last nite
And going to a picture show tonite and tomorrow
nite. If they let us will attend church on
Easter.
Wrote Betty in Washington yesterday. If
Have to lay over in Washington will probably
Try to find her if at nite. Will probably
write Gilbert a few lines today. Tell Chester
and John Story havent written them because
because of no stationery.
Guess that is just about all the news
Just now. Would sure like to get a
From home and would like so much
to see an Albany Herald again. And I
must admit I am quite home-sick. Hope
everyone is O.K. and am looking forward
to seeing you all again next week.

Love
Walter





Apr 19, 1943


MRS. RUBY GREAN
C/O DIANA SHOP
ALBANY, GA.


Charlotte, N.C.
4/17/43

Hello Mother Stopped a few minutes
Here + thought would write a few lines. Am
Going along O.K. with cat-naps. Now
10 oclock. 26 more hours to go to
get to Bainbridge, Md. Wish it was
Georgia. Need some of that chicken
Now as they want 25c for a sandwich.
We are on the go again so must
Close. Tell Chester where we are
headed. More later Love - Walter






WilliAM WALTER GREEN, A.S. FREE
SICK BAY 4.31
U.S.N.T.S.
BAINBRIDGE, MD.


MRS. WALTER GREEN
P.O. Box 596
ALBANY, GA.

April 21, 1943

William Water Green, A.S.
Sick Bay 431
U.S.N.T.S.
Bainbridge, Md.


Mother

Bainbridge Md.
Tuesday Apr 20th
1943

Dearest Mother:-
Hello and how are you. As for myself
am all O.K. just sitting around doing
nothing.
There is little for me to say I guess
As I know Leet has told you everything
So far.
This is some camp. Plenty big.
There must be between 3000 and 5000
men here. It is lot of fun in a way
with the boys always hollering at
you Hey Mate Where you from.
They say the officers here are
swell too. Havent been under any of
them yet so cant say.
The food is O.K. and plenty of it.
If you dont get enough at first then
go back for more. As for myself
havent been back for anything
except for a second cup of coffee.
Guess Leet told you about the
weather? You sure couldnt stand it
here. Today is much better. The sun
is shining and much warmer.
Well dont know anything more.
Hope you are O.K. and dont worry.
Tell Chester will let him know
about it when I get more stationery.
Tell Grace and Helen hello and
kiss Lynda for me. Miss that little
kid. You may write me here
for few days. Address on back
Love Walter
William Walter Green, A/S
Sick Bay - -431
U. S. N. T. S.
Bainbridge, Md.




Mrs. Ruby Green
c/o Diana Shop
Albany, Georgia


April 26, 1943



SaturdayApril 24th

My Dearest Mother:-

Your letter came this afternoon. Gee, how I have longed for some word from
home. I must admit I am truly homesick. Here I have been gone just a week
but it seems like a month already. And how do I miss our good eating there.
I have already told you Im looking forward to some good ole biscuits and
All those other good things you fix for me.

Mother, I just cant tell you what your letter meant to me and how I did appreciate
it. The room here was full of men gabbing, hollering and everything
as I read your letters and Leets. I just couldnt help it. I sat there on
my upper bunk and tears just started streaming down my cheeks. Had to hide
my face in my pillow and offer a little prayer of thanks to God that he had
spared you for us this long. Truly no man has ever had a sweeter, more understanding
mother. And I want you to know I do love you more than any words
of mine can ever say. I have been so mean to you in the past and it does
hurt me so deeply as I realize it. I have so much to try to make up to you
mother and if God will but give us time I shall surely do all I can. Still,
I know I can never repay you for all the heartaches I have caused you.
Oh, but I am so very thankful that God has left you here with us sufficient
long enough for me to come back into your heart as the son you once knew and
loved. Yes, mother, I am so thankful.

I wanted to tell you this before I left, wanted to tell you and Leet, but
Just couldnt get up the nerve. I wanted you to know that in my heart and
Soul I am O.K. Should God will that I become engaged in actual combat in
this war and that my life would be taken then I would be ready. I am telling
you mother I have felt a heaviness in the past, but never in my life I dont
believe have I felt so clear inside and so close to God. It has meant so much
to me. You and Leet have contributed to this. Both of you taking the other
into your heart as you have truly mad me happy and with this understanding
I think we have all walked closer to God. You say you have drifted
Away but mother you know this is not so. I know you are ready. I know in
Your soul you are satisfied. And I am so happy you are still with us. Just
Keep your faith and trust in God as we are doing, ask his help in your prayers
And I know he will be there to help you as always.

Mother, you just dont know how happy I am with Leet. I just dont believe a
Man ever loved his wife as I love that girl. And I dont believe any man was
ever loved by a woman as I am by her. I do know ours is the perfect match and
we are so extremely happy. And, mother, she does love you so much. I want you
to know that. She is interested so much in you and wants to do everything
for you that she knows I would want to do. She is trying so hard to take my
place while I am going and see that you are taken care of. She dont
want you to want for anything. And I know you do love her too. This does
make me so very very happy. You have been so swell holding up as you have. I
am so proud of you for this. Just keep it up for me. And just count on Leet
in every way. Shell stick by you and with you. And know she is counting
on you for I also know she needs you as a mother to her so much now. Do it
all for me, both of you, and I shall be so happy indeed.

Mother, cant help bad over having to come home and the having
to go through all of it again. I couldnt help but feel you were proud of
Me just as you said in your letter and I was happy and looking forward to
the time when you could join the Navy Mothers Club there at home. But,
dont seem this will be unless I should come home and get me some false
teeth and comeback. It sounds crazy but if they had sent me to Great Lakes
it would have been O.K. as they have a laboratory and would make them for
me. Just dont know right now what I will do. Will just wait until I get
home and talk it over with you all.

I am going to church here tomorrow. Wish I could spend Easter with you all.
Do know I will be thinking of you and hope you have a nice one. I asked
for a lilly to be sent you and Leet. Hope you get it and know it is
with a heart of love.

While writing you received a Special Delivery from Mr. Peek with a letter
enclosed for the kid asking me to see that he gets it. I havent seen him
him since last Monday but will get it to him O.K.

We are going to the show again tonite. Will see Star Spangled Rhythm
over again but anything to get out a bit. Again let me tell you how
happy your letter made me and do know that you are precious to me and I
will be seeing you again soon.

Love
Walter





Easter Sunday
1943

Dearest Mother:-

Happy Easter to you. Hope you are enjoying it and know
you are as much as you can. Sure would like to be with
you all this Easter Day, to go to church and all and sit
down to a good dinner as I know you all will have.
We had fairly good but nothing like I thot they might
give us on Easter. Ice cream was about the best thing
we had.

Been a good boy today. Been to two church services. The
Catholics held Mass at eight and several of us went.
Some were Catholics, some were not as myself. As you
must know I didnt know what it was all about. In all
due respect it appeared more as a show with a lot of
pompuous ceremony by men in gaily colored robes. The big
man put on about five different robes it seemed and
they done about all there was done. The only thing
we did was get up and kneel down. Immediately after I
attended the Protestant service and enjoyed it with
its singing and all. They have song books and all
here for the boys to use. The attendance at the
Catholic service was much greater though than the
Protestant. They require that all men attend service of
some kind.

A fellow going in noticed my Masonic ring and on coming
out inquired if they had a Lodge here. Of course I
did not know and told him.

Everything mighty quiet here this afternoon. Think will
try to catch up on my sleep as the boys have been too
rowdy at night so we couldnt sleep much.

Am still puzzled over what to do when I get home. Wish
Someone could tell me. Plenty things here I dont like
About the Navy. But then, I am most certain wouldgo in as
a First Class Petty Officer and to the best of my lnowledge
dont believe they give any ratings in the Army. Just
wish could find out about this when I come. Have
written Leet to consider getting in touch with some of
those Turner Field big shots that she knows and see what
we can find out. Perhaps you know some. I feel most sure
we could talk to that Chaplain Marshall though I dont
know how much he could tell us.

Guess that is about all this time. Too late to mail
your letter yesterday afternoon when I finished it so
just kept it open to write a few more lines today.

It was about one week ago this time I arrived here and
suppose will be back home with you all by next Sunday.
Am looking forward to it and a good ole dinner and chat
and then Ive got to get my little gal off and squeeze
her most to death- - -how about it???

So long for today and again hope it has been a nice
Easter for you and do hope you received your lilly
all right. Do know it was sent with a heart of love to
you.

Your son
Walter

Wrote Marianna and Mr. Peck
Today.





Mrs. Ruby Green
c/o Diana Shop
Albany, Ga.

October 15, 1943


Dear Mom:-

They have put the
O.K. on me for Navy.
Even tell me now that
Teeth are not required.
Some business, eh?
Home Saturday night.

Love
Walter

FORT McPHERSON, GEORGIA (postcard)







Wm. W. Green, a/s
U. S. N. T. S.
Great Lakes, Ill


Mrs. Ruby Green
c/o Mrs. Walter Green
PLEASE --> P.O. Box 596
BOYS Albany, Ga.




Oct 23 1943 Atlanta, Ga
Sat. 3:00 p.m.


Dearest Mom
Guess you know I am headed
for Great Lakes. Sorry I cant go
and be with Chester but this
whole group except about 6
are being sent to Great lakes
to fill a quota. No one here
has offered any explanation
but my paper stated that I
was NOT to be sent to
Bainbridge. However, that
didnt matter as we are all
slated for Great Lakes.
The C.P.O. said he didnt
tThink Chester would stay at
Bainbridge but very little time.
So, dont worry and it will all
work out O.K.
In a way I am a little

-2

thrilled as I get to go to both
of them. And too, Great Lakes
is the largest, most developed,
and with more activities going
on. Radio celebrities are visiting
there frequently. So long as I
must go I may as well have
all the pleasure I can with
it dont you think?
Great Lakes is about 32
miles from Chicago so
maybe will get to see the
big city some day.
Am tickled in a way that
I have been placed in charge
of the group. That puts both
Chester and I in charge of one.
Something to these Green boys
of yours Aint they??

-3-

Soon as you hear from
Chester you will have to let
him know. And of course I
will want his address soon
as I have mine and let you
know
Talked a while with
Mabel this morning. She didnt
have car so couldnt come down.
She is going home in a day or
two.
Saw and talked with
Mr. Wills over at terminal
station a little while ago.
Called the Greens but
line was busy. May try again
before we have to report back
to headquarters.


-4-


Believe that is all just
now. Will write again when
opportunity presents. Again I
say dont worry. Everything
will work out O.K. and
everybody will be all right.
We just have a job to do and
are out to do it so we may
come home in peace. Just
hold tight to your faith in
the good God above. Give
us your prayers and know
that He will see us through.

Lovingly your Son
Walter


Hello to Grace!!






Wm W. Green, a/s
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.


Mrs. Ruby Green
c/o Diana Shop
Albany,
Ga.



Oct. 24, 1943
Sunday 6 p.m.
Enroute

Dearest Mother
Still on the go and what traveling. This is
the jumpingest train I have ever been on. We
are running 4 hours late. Suppose to arrive
Great Lakes about 5:30 but it will be about
9 and that means no supper. We visited
a USO at Danville, Ill. and had sandwich and
coffee. Without sugar but it ate right good.
We are due in Chicago about an hour and
half. It will be dark so dont guess will
see much.
Passed through Nashville about 3 this morn.
Wrote Marianna a card and asked someone
to mail there for me.
Sure glad I have my over coat. We will
be on lake front and it is cold already.
When there will get the breeze right off
the lake gee Gives me the shivers to think
of it.
Listen Mom Have forgotten all the
figures we fout on that farm for me. Soon
as you get my address send all of it to me
Air Mail. I want the estimate of your
salary amount received from rooms and
the amounts listed that I paid as board the
last 3 years. I think that is all. If anymore
you think I should have send it too.
They may keep us so busy the first few
days so that I cannot write. I will send my
address though and will write soon as
I can
Hope you can read this train
writing - Love
Your Son
Walter







Wm Walter Green a/s
Company 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.


Mrs. Ruby Green
c/o Diana Shop
Albany
Ga



Oct 26, 1943 Monday afternoon

Dear Mother
Here I am all O.K. Have
visited dentist and guess O.K.
Some solace this is. Greatest
training station in World I think.
Some 135,000 here I understand.
Havent been able to see anything
as yet as am still in Receiving
unit. Get examination and
clothes tomorrow I guess.
I sort of wish Bud could
have come her just because it
is what it is. Dont know if
it amounts to anything except
just to say it is the biggest.
Bainbridge was said to have
some 30,000 when I was
there. Perhaps there are more
there now. They do have

-2-

larger Chow hall than they have
here. Waited in line about an
hour for breakfast this morn
not so bad at dinner.
Georgia and No. Carolina
just about make up this
Company am in. Some pretty
nice fellows and some from the
back woods.
Believe me it is plenty cold
here. And they say it is warm.
Snow is slated in some 30 days
some several inches deep. Am
wondering how us boys from the
south will make it. We do
drill inside though.
Have my address now.
Send me that information
I asked for. And get it
off right away that I will
have when needed. The

-3-

address is --------

Wm Walter Green, a/s
Company 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.

No news just now. May
see a show tonight.
Let me have Chesters
address when you have it.

Love
Walter








Wm W. Green, a/s
Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill

Mrs. Ruby Green
Diana Shop
Albany,
Ga


Oct 30, 1943 Great Lakes
Friday nite


Dearest Mom
At last am getting a minute to write. Believe
me they keep you busy here such that the day gets
by before you know it. And with this Asst. Company
Clerk job I am on the job every minute. This
Navy really keeps a check on everything a man does
and every move he makes. But I do like it more
and more and will really be proud to wear the
uniform and hope may make you proud of me.
Talk about speed but they really put you thru.
Dont think Chester got it fast as we have. Get
our exam and clothes Tuesday haircut Wednesday
Service School tests Thursday Physical strength test
vaccination and 2 shots today and will have
another School test tomorrow. They say they
are putting us through plenty fast.
Have done O.K. so far. Surprised myself on
the strength test being an inside man with no
exercise. Think I done about average on the
School tests. I believe I done good except on
the mechanical part. I was dumb on it and
done plenty guessing.
Getting along swell. No sickness of
Any kind and no bother about anything. The
boys are swell and everyone is happy in being
in the Navy. One of the real big shots came
In today and they really put on a big show for
him. We couldnt see it though. Did get a
glimpse of it and it was sure pretty with
all the marching bands and everything.
Hope all of you are getting along
fine. Dont worry about me for they really
take care of you here in every way.
-2-
Tell Grace and Ruby Helen and Doris hello
For me. There is hardly anything to write them
Other than what I have written you but will
Drop them a line sometime soon.
We have our hammock and all. Didnt hear
Chester say anything. Just wonder if he has.
This is sure some place here. Goes for miles and
and miles and miles. Cant imagine just how big it really is.
Speaking of Chester Do send me his address so
I can write to him.
Havent spent a nickel since I been here. Havent
had a chance to smoke but 2 or 3 cigars and little
of my tobacco. They keep you too busy.
Am liking my job as Asst. Company Clerk.
The regular clerk dont know much which way he
is going so I am doing most of the work. These
boys are like a bunch of kids. They ask a
million questions and sometimes over and over. It
tickels me to see how dumb some of them can act.
Fact is have to sort of be a mother to them.
Believe that will be all for tonite. Keep
your good spirits up and everything will be
O.K. Just know I am fine and write me often.
Maybe I will be too busy to write so often
but am thinking of you all, missing you,
and will surely write at every opportunity.
Love to you
Walter








Wm W. Walter Green a/s
Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.

Mrs. Ruby Green
Diana Shop
Albany, Ga

November 5, 1943


Thursday Nite

Dearest Mother
Well I got it. Mail Specialist
3/C. And without any effort at all.
Mr. Gibsons letter was all needed
and the Lieut. was quite complimentary
on my record. He was a very nice
and like able fellow but didnt
know much about the Navy he
admitted. He was a Mason as he saw
my ring and spoke of it a bit. Dont
know if that will mean anything
to me as I dont know how much
influence he may have but am helping.
Expected something better but it
seems must take that and when I
return will be placed in an
office on the base here and then
get an examination and possibly
then receive a higher rating.
I will be named Asst. Mail
Clerk and that means a little
more pay. So I feel some
better about it.

-2-

I had my annual rating slip
from home with me. When I received
It didnt think it was fair and spoke
To Mr. Heidt about it and he promised
It would be revised. That was what I
Stopped for the nite I left but it was
Not there. Since then he mailed it
To me and it was swell 100%
in everything. Mr. Heit wrote
me a very nice letter offering
his assistance in any way. He
said Mr. Gibson was very much
in favor of this rating for me.
You know it made me feel good.
Had a bit of bad luck this
morning. Dropped my pen and
broke it. Shouldnt have but it
but I did. Just one of those things.
Must go to bed. Hope all
is well. Love

Walter










Wm W. Green, a/s
Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill

Mrs. Ruby Green
Diana Shop
Albany, Ga

Nov. 7 1943

Sat Nite

Dearest Mother
Your letter received and glad again
to hear from you. Also have a letter
today from Bud. He says therein that
he is writing you so no need for me to
mention these things. I know he wants
some Sea Duty. You come here and get
inbred with the spirit of the Navy,
sing the songs see movies of the
ships and all and it takes
Hold of you making you want to get
into it. From Chesters letter he
probably will be visiting foreign ports
and that will be an experience
even though dangerous. Expect my
work will place me at some land
base post office though that
remains to be seen-
Speaking of my work and
rating I had a little argument
with a clerk here yesterday as to

-2-

the manner of preparing Registered
Mail. He proceeded to tell me what and
how and I let him know I know. He
then came in that he had 18 years
service and in charge of department in
an office in a big city. So I had to
tell him I had 17 years service. So
he then come back that I was still
in the Navy. You see we have to say
Sir to all Petty Officers so that I
better shut my mouth. Anyhow, I
noted that he was only a 2nd class P.O.
With all his received so felt some
better over mine.
Sure have felt bad yesterday
and today. We got our [first] next shot
and it was the worse one the
double typhoid. It sure makes
your arm sore, and also makes
you feel sluggish and gives you
a headache. Some of the boys
were up all nite. Some really
got sick. But I come thru with
just the headache-

-3-

Dont worry about me and my taking
orders. I know it must be done and
so I do. They really keep you in a
fast whirl and all and our Chief
scares us officers of the Company along
with all the rest. Then when we
are alone he is O.K. and just opens up
and we have a nice chat about most
anything. He makes us know he has
to do this so there will be no
partiality shown and just yesterday
he socked me 10 demerits for going
to the Johnny before inspection.
Believe me they are strict with you
and dont allow you any privileges
at times. If you have to get out
you just have to hold it till the
appointed hour may have to do
2 hours 2 Happy Hours which means
work.

-4-

Yes, Leila told me about Marianna.
I hate this on her part as her disposition
is such that she rather stay
home than to cause any trouble. I too
have pleaded that she stick in
everything as I know Margarets
snobbish ways such that she would take
special delight in such things I
would that Leet stick and show her
just how much everyone there thot
of her, but more especially that
She would not back out on her
account or anything. Marianna
has not written me since I have
been here. I too wish she would
come to see you and all but truly
that is too much to hope for.
Yes, am enjoying my work now.
It is on my line all right. And
we have done all our main book
work now such that we shall
have much time free here after.
And I dont have to do any of the
work of cleaning up which comes
3 times a day with a real one on
Saturday.

-5-

All that stuff Mrs. Patch said
about Leila begging her to let her
stay there is all much. It is not so.
She was not anxious to go and the
Decision was made mainly at you
suggestion. I forgot what or when it
was, but know it was and the we
talked it over and that seemed about
best thing to do. If anything goes
wrong there she will leave though
I dont know where she will go to.
Mrs. Patch wants her with her every
minute I know. And she stays on
jump so I know she wont allow
her to spend much time with you.
But from Leets letters I know she
is making efforts and does
want to spend much time with
you. So be patient as I know she
is trying for she does love you
most dearly.

-6-

Know Chester will enjoy New Orleans.
It is such a historic city.
Went to football game today. Had
to march about 6 miles. Great Lakes
won & it was a swell game. They sure
could kick and pass. Our 1st touchdown
came on a 40 yd pass and he run 44
more to take it over. A Big black
negro was on Great Lakes team.
Notre Dame plays here in 2 weeks
but we cant go. We are not eligible
to attend games after 4 weeks. That
Saturday we go to Hostess House where
we may have visitors. Sure wish you
all could be here but expense too much
for short time. You should have seen
us marching to the game. Sailors just as
far as you could see and they were 6
abrest. Not all companys could go and
what went were those not here 4 weeks.
And with that limitation there were
20,000 attending. You wonder
where they will put all these men.
Must go to bed. Taps will soon
blow and must get ready before lights
are out. Write often and know
I love you dearly and long for you.
Hello to Grace.
Walter








Wm W. Green a/s
Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill

Mrs. Ruby Green
Diana Shop
Albany, Ga

Nov. 15, 1943

Sunday

Dearest Mother
It was sure good for the morale to
talk with all of you Friday nite. Your
voices sounded so good and all the talk
in every way done me good in every way.
Someone who had called home a few
days before said dont do it as it would
make you too homesick. Well naturally
I wanted to see all of you but that is
and has been so already. Talking with
you didnt do that but instead gave
me a delightful thrill that gave a whole
lot of satisfaction instead of sadness.
You know I wanted to be home, enjoy the
cake and all that. There was no one here
to fix things for me and all that. Instead
it was just another day of work and
everything here. But dont worry, it was
just another one of those things. I know
Ill celebrate when I do get home and you
all will just fix every little thing for
me. Am sure looking forward to it.
Had planned the phone call a week
or more as the manner in which I
would celebrate. Thot for a while I would
miss as it seemed they never would make
connections. But finally it was completed

2

and I was happy. Taps had blown
and all the lights were out when I
called but just wasnt to be denied if
if it could be helped.
Know you are enjoying Chester
being home except hell have to leave
again. That is always the bad part.
Seems he is still a good talker and
persuader getting a leave soon as he
did. Afraid I wont be so successful
as I cant talk that good.
Dont worry if Dorris goes with
him. Im thinking that it wont be for
long as he will probably be shipped.
Then I promise Dorris will return. It
will be good for Chester to have Bill
with him that long.
And please dont get so blue
and pessimistic at all including
Leets going with me. You assume
none of us will come home even
before giving it a trial. If we go we
we will all come back I know and if
that is not possible then well fix
it so that you can come see us. We need
your faith and support in all this
so dont be blue about it. Your
being so sort of makes us blue and I
know you dont want to do that.
You mentioned sending me something.
in the way of gifts well you just
cant hardly send anything as we can
have just certain things. More than this
and we may be subject to demerits.
As for cake or whatever it may be

-3-

You know this is always welcomed from home.
It wont last hardly any longer than it
can be opened. We are instructed not to
hold it but get our part first and then
pass it around. In this manner most
everybody gets some. Then, next day, when
the other fellow gets some I get some
of it.
Wasnt that something about
Marianna? Sending it home to save till
needed.
Guess thats about all the news
just now. Received your card. Marianna
sent one just like it. Also have cards
from Edna Fields Nellie Brazier C. C. &
Elizabeth Hill. Quite thoughtful of them. Tell
everyone hello for me. Hope to get a
chance to write Brother Stephens this
week. Love to you
Walter





Wm W. Green a/s
Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill

Mrs. Ruby Green
Diana Shop
Albany, Ga

Nov. 22, 1943

Sunday

Dearest Mother
Your letter received and glad
to hear from you again. Know you are
plenty busy & I understand.
Sorry to hear of your disappointment
over Chesters visit. I know it
could have been much happier for
all but was just one of those things.
dont feel about it. Will try to
make up for it when I get there.
Sure wish we could spend Christmas
together there but guess that was
not in the books for us. Well just
have to hope and pray for another
day.
Speaking of Christmas guess Leet
told you we get eleven days. That
makes us have to be here on Dec. 27th.
Will have to leave right after Xmas
but still get to spend Xmas day with
you and we will have a big day
together.
Have seen nothing in paper
about Dick walker except that his
pilot was a prisoner of war in
Germany. Would like to know what

2
happened to him.
That was something good for
Ruby Helen & Hambrick. Do hope they use
it wisely.
I had written James Parrish but
dont guess he will get it until it is
forwarded to him. Wish I could have
seen him.
Talked on phone with Dorris
Holt the other day. He is in another
camp miles away from me. There are
14 boys from home in his Company.
Glad I am this far on the way but
know would have enjoyed being in
such a Company. My chief said he
would see if he could get me a pass
to go visiting Wednesday. Sure hope I
see someone from home. And
there is another boy in another camp
but dont guess Ill see him. He is
a Royal Arcanum man.
Leet wrote about joining the
Missionary Circle. Sure glad to see her
do this. She is truly a sweet and
understanding girl and I do love her
so much & know she does me. If
she ever comes to stay with me dont
you worry for I promise we will be
coming home and I do mean it!!!
I hear the boys coming in
now will have to stay in training
12 weeks. Gee, but am glad that
doesnt include us. And those boys
leaving here on Dec. 14 wont have

3

but 9 days leave instead of 11. Again we
are fortunate.
Had a grand letter from Chester
written on his last day there. The ole
boy likes Leet and naturally I am
happy in this.
We are in our Service Week now
and the boys are being sent all over
the Camp to work. Fortunately my
job here relieves me except help
cleaning up a bit in the morning.
They say that after Service Week
the time passes swiftly. We are now
counting the days each morning when
we get up. Helps pass them off.
We shall surely have a feed
Thanksgiving day. Am sending Grace
a paper giving our menu and we
can go back for more and still
more for as much as we wish.
Have you thot of joining the
Navy Mothers Club there?? You
are surely eligible now. Wrote
Leet about this. Dont know if it
is open to Navy Wives or not but

4

seems it should be.
Have had rather warm weather
for last few days but today is a bit
cold with snow threatening again.
Guess this puts me up with all
the news. Am enjoying the Library
now. They have a smoking room
with all kind of games and the
boys bring in their musical
instruments and enjoy singing and
everything. Makes the days pass
by more swiftly.
The boys all around us are
leaving one camp after another.
new ones are coming in. Soon we
will be old timers around here.
The boys on Service Week say new
recruits are really coming in.
Well, will close. Take care
yourself and dont worry. Am happy
that everyone is saying such nice
things about Leet. Write again
when you have time and know I
love you dearly

Your Son
Walter

P.S. Wrote Dr. Stephens the other
day.






Wm W. Green a/s
Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.


Mrs. Ruby Green
c/o Diana Shop
Albany,
Ga

#2

Nov. 22, 1943

Sunday

Say Mom
Forgot to tell you this. You know
I broke my Parker 51 pen? Broke the
barrell right in two such that the
Lifetime guarantee didnt cover it.
wrote them and they said send it to
them. Received it back yesterday
with a new barrel just like new.
They enclosed a note saying because
I was in the Service it was Free
How is that? I am getting some of
that radio gift we use to hear,
aint I? I was quite tickled over
it.

Love
Walter






Wm W. Green a/s
Co. 1645
USNTS
Great Lakes, Ill.


Mrs. Ruby Green
Diana Ship
Albany,
Ga.

Nov. 30, 1943


Dearest Mom:-
Just time for a few lines before going to
Show. Received your letter. So sorry about
Your arm and please dont neglect it. Go
Ahead and see the doctor and get it fixed.
Had a letter from Rube telling me
about Thanksgiving. Asked me to forget the
past. Cant quite go all the way on that
unless Mr. T.B. could be man enough to make
a few apologies.
Received the box from Leet with all
the goodies. Sure was a delightful surprize.
She told me of your contributions. Am sure
enjoying it too.
Sorry the Xmas cards didnt come in.
Maybe some could be bought from
Ackers and printed. Leet said she gave
you some money on these. Dont know
whether for B.T.U. or what. Anyhow
help her get it straight. I forget
how many boxes the B.T.U. ordered
but 4 I think. Anyhow they paid
60c a box for them. Then, the cards
for you and Grace I was paying for

them myself. I didnt collect anything
from you on these as I was paying for them
out of the little profit we were going
to make. So help get it all Straight
with B.T.U. and all.
Had a good snow last nite. About
2 inches deep this morning. Really
looks pretty.
Mariannas address is
217 Elbeter St. Nashville.
Must close. Write again soon
and do take care of your arm.

Love
Walter





Wm W. Green a/s
Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.


Mrs. Ruby Green
Diana Shop
Albany
Ga

November 26, 1943


cinnamon

allspice

milk

nutmeg - 11

cloves

vanilla

grape juice

2# raisins

2# currants

1 # citron

1# dates

# almonds

# cherries

@ orange & lemon
Peeling

1# fig preserves


Nov. 26
1943

Thanksgiving

Dearest Mom:-
Today is Thanksgiving and I feel I must
send just a few lines to you for surely I have
much to be thankful for especially in a
dear, sweet, thoughtful mother as you.
I am so thankful that God has so
graciously spared you so long that you
are still with us. I know I have brot
you much heart-aches in the past and so
I am doubly thankful because I have
found my way back home into your
heart as the son you use to know.
I pray God will permit me to contribute
to your happiness now in every possible
way.
I feel happier and more thankful
this Thanksgiving as I havent in. I
know not when, even though I am
not permitted to be with you. I have
such a wonderful, dear and sweet wife
in Leila that truly contributes to my
happiness. I do love her so with all
my heart and I know she loves me.
Her love, your love, together with mine
in return gives me every reason to be
filled with Thanksgiving.

My B.T.U. was truly thoughtful as I
presume you know. They mailed me some
personal greetings written on cards with
scripture verses on the back. You dont
know just how happy this made me feel. I was
tempted to cry with joy.
We have had quite an easy day.
Held a mass service this morning of 15
minutes. Got a haircut this afternoon.
Otherwise on our own. Had a swell
dinner. The best yet and cooked grand.
turkey was real tender and they sure
filled our tray. Full as a tick when I
got up. Sent Leet a post card mom.
They wouldnt permit us but one card.
One thing we are thankful for
is that in just 3 weeks we will be
on our way home. We leave 3 weeks
from today. That will surely be
one happy day for all of us.
Hope you are well and
everything is O.K. and am looking for
your letter.

Love
Walter







Mrs. Ruby Green
Diana Shop
Albany, Ga.

December 13, 1943

Sunday

Dearest Mother!
This is my last card that I brot from
home. Just wanted to say be on the lookout
for a good pork ham for me. Sure want
some when I get there. Everyone here is
in high spirits with time getting so
short. Snow is here again and I mean
its really coming down. Hope its thru by
Thursday. Had another nice visit with
James Parrish, his wife & children, Dorris Holt
& Charlie King yesterday. Hope you & Grace are
all O.K. And will see you soon
Love Walter





W.W. Green a/s
Co. 1645 U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.


Mrs. Walter Green
P. O. Box 596
Albany,
Ga.


Wednesday

Dec 9 1943

Dearest Mother:-
Received your welcomed letter. Hope you are all o.k.
now and Grace is better and out again. I am just
feeling grand. With the time drawing closer and
closer for us to be on our way home everybody
here is truly jubilant so much so they have
become almost uncontrollable. Im telling you
it surely feels good.
Everything we are doing now is in terms
of going home. Final exams are being held.
Last things being done. Weve had our rifle
range gas drill Plane recognition and
those things. Practically every day now is some
final. Have our final review Saturday and
hope no more drilling after that. Next week
will get our dog tags Identification card
tickets home & all that. Got our dress jumper
the other day. And next Tuesday the Company
will have a little party.
Visited with Dorris last Saturday. Had
swell visit. Was very fortunate as others have
to get passes but nothing doing. While there
found James Parrish and we all got together.
Sure done all of us good. Tell you more
it when I get home. James & his wife may go
this Saturday and go to Hostess House for a
get together.
We leave here next Thursday & I expect
get home Friday afternoon. Thats all I can
say just now. Will probably wire Leet more
definitely when I know.
Well be busy sure enough this last
week so probably this will be my last
letter. Am sure looking forward to coming
home. Tell Grace will sure appreciate her
helping Leet get Home ready. So until then,
I am, With Love - Your Son
Walter


Wm W. Green A/S
Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill

MRS. RUBY GREEN
DIANA SHOP
ALBANY, GA.


Dearest Mother:
Now dont laugh. Isnt
this one for you. Taken
as fast as you could hop
up & down. These boots
sure make you look
like heck. Were
really getting ready to
leave this place! See
you Friday.

Love
Walter

(Picture of Wm. W. Green in Navy Uniform)







Wm W Green, M Sp 3/c
O.G.V.
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill


Mrs. Ruby Green
423 Flint Ave
Albany,
Ga.


Dec 27, 1943

Monday
27

Dear Mom:-
Have just a few minutes now before
lights go out. Havent time to write
much. Have written Leet and she will
probably come by & tell you the few
general things I am able to say just
now. Arrived o.k. and on time. Didnt
sleep much and all tired out tonite.
Besides trying to get straightened
out. Had bath & shave and maybe
will get some sleep. Hard to get
back to this after such a grand
time at home. Seems cant call tonite as
phones all tied up. Will try to
write tomorrow. Sure hope you
are feeling much better. Tell
Grace & all hello for me.

Love
Walter







Wm W. Green, Sp. M 3/c
O.G.U.
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.


Mrs. Ruby Green
423 Flint Ave
Albany,
Ga.

Dec 28, 1943

Tuesday
28th

My Dear Mom:-
Hello and I do hope this finds you much
much better and maybe up again. Im getting
along o.k. but sure hard after such a swell
time at home. That was surely the happiest
week of my life I do believe. Everyone
was so kind and thoughtful in every way.
And say what you will about that ham
and turkey but they were kings food as
compared to this up here. How I wish I had
a cup of coffee right now.
Sorry could not call last nite but this
building has 800 men in each end and only
3 phones and the line was too long. It was
still there after lights went out. I thot
might call then but was so tired when I
hit the sack was right off to sleep.
Some place this is. All in my barracks
are rated men. All just waiting for their
name to be called in a draft. And about
all anxious for it to bee called so they
can be on their way. Two drafts left
today both bound for California.
Thot I was hitting it swell as I am
on the D row and we have had no
detail work at all. Most every row has
some special work as K P guard duty

and all that except mine. So thot I
was going to take it easy. But This afternoon
my name was called. It was about time
for the drafts to be called if any so I
was a bit jittery. On going info found they
were calling up the mail specialists 6 of
us. We were instructed to report to main
post office which we did and then
went to work immediately. Now we are
to report there at 8:00 every morning and
work until 4:30 in the afternoon.. Just now
we are doing directory service. Just how
long we will be there I dont know. They
say we are the first ones sent over in some
time as most of them have been sent
to California. They talked as if we
might remain here several weeks. If
we are taken out of O.G.U. and assigned
to Ships Company then we will be
stationed here. But, so long as we are
left in O.G.U. guess we will be
subject to a draft call anytime. And
thats all I know about it just now.
Hope to investigate further tomorrow
and see what I can find out. Will
let you know as I do.
They have scattered our Company to
the four winds all over this place. The
boys with ratings are in barracks
with me while I see others when we
go to chow. This place is surely full
of men.
Tell Grace I saw the boy she
picked out in the picture only once
and couldnt tell him then that he
had interests in Georgia.

3
Oh yes one of the boys I met in the
post office and he is stationed here was from
Fitzgerald and I know some of the clerks
over there.
We are claiming our title now. The
card given me on my return had my
rating on it. So it seems Ill be here
for a spell so am saying to write me at
this address

Wm Walter Green, Sp. M. 3/C
O.G.U. Brks 210-B, North
U.S.N.T.S.
Great Lakes, Ill.

Thot I was going to make some extra
cash as you can go to Campbells Soup Co.
in Chicago each day if not on detail
and work 8 hours and make about $4.00
net. My post office has knocked me
out of this now.
Guess this is all for this time.
Sure do miss all of you and anxious
to know how you are. Write soon.

Love
Walter








Wm W. Green, Sp (M) 3/c
O.G.U. Co. 1645
Great Lakes, Ill.

Mrs. Ruby Green
423 Flint Ave.
Albany
Ga.

Thursday 30.

Dec 30, 1943

Dearest Mom:-
Have liberty tonite and visited
Waukegan. Sort of city like Albany
in a way. Stopped here in USO to
drop you & Leet a line.
Have no more news except
I am still working at Post Office.
Do feel sure I can say this I
wont be placed in Ships Company
as I first thot. If so they would
have already taken us out of O.G.U.
I think they will just let us stay
there until the work is caught
up & then ship us out. I did hear
rumors today that Mail Specialists
would be called Saturday with
3 going to District of Columbia, 13
to California and some more to
Chicago to a V. mail school. I
Cant say this is true you just
dont know what to believe.


They sure lose no time
here with most of them.
Most of my company, except
those attending Service School
have already gone. I bet
close to 1000 men left here today
and most of them are headed for
West Coast. I dont know of any who
have been sent to New Orleans. Most
of mail I have handled is being
forwarded to California. A big
draft of Firemen left today for
Bremerton, Washington. And I hear
about these Mail Specialists that
none are being placed on ships now
but sent to either California or
New York for transfer to island bass
in Atlantic or Pacific. So, all I can
is sit & wait.
You were speaking of Buddy
when at home. They say every Lieutenant
has strings. Have been thinking of
this dont know if he could or
would help me, but he might
could even to getting me placed
down south in Georgia or
Florida. Think it over and if
you wish you might write

Aunt Montie. This is
precious in this too. I sort of
hate to do this but we
have to forget all this in
such a condition as we are
in.
A group of Storekeepers
left here today but I had to go
to work & didnt find out where
they were sent.
Well, guess this is all.
Write me soon. Hope you are well
now. Tell Grace am sure enjoying
her candy.

Love
Walter


P.S. Had letter from Marianna written
on 26th. Very nice letter. She had
flu & couldnt meet train. Said she
called station and had me paged,
and wanted to ask me to come out
and see her. Was tickled with
handkerchiefs & said she had something
each color could go with. She had a
good Xmas it seemed.

My address is William Walter Green, Sp (M) 3/c
O.G.U. Co. 1645
U.S.N.T.S
Great Lakes, Ill