WW2 Era Soldiers Diary, Day 1-4, 1945.

This diary belonged to an Edward Strokirk. The diary starts on January 1st 1945. There are tons of entries that cover his initial training in the states, his voyage overseas, disembarking in France, through Belgium, Germany Etc. I will gradually post his entries in order over time.


“Monday, January 1st 1945

Arrived at fort Lewis last night from delay en-route, with Ratkowity, Reitano and Popken(?). Returned to Co.B 156 M.T. Bn. Camp Murray. Someone had a bottle so we had a drink and called it new years Eve. It is raining today and I’m going up to the main fort for an X-ray. The men are all back now and the greetings are about over. Everyone has his story to tell. “


“Tuesday, January 2nd 1945

Reveille and Fatigue duty. My barracks bag’s didn’t come so I’m one of the chosen few. No details. Wrote a few letters and received several Christmas cards and packages. Lots of mail, including Christmas card from Sgt. Charles Roch in India. “


“Wednesday, January 3rd 1945

Everyone is wondering what unit they will be assigned. Orders will be arriving in a day or so. My barracks bags haven’t arrived so I missed the hikes and tent pitching. We are getting used to the rain. “


“Thursday, January 4th 1945

Cloudy and rain. After all the sunshine we’ve had in the past five months it’s a bit disconcerting. Still no barracks bags. “

 

Indeed. And I look forward to sharing more!