Letters From War Wednesday: World War I – Jesse Winebrenner.

I don’t know about you all, but the History Junkie is still very much in holiday spirits.  Accordingly, for LFWW, let’s feature another Christmas letter.

Jesse Winebrenner - 137th Field Artillery

This offering comes to us from Indiana doughboy, Jesse Winebrenner, serving occupational duties in France.  The letter, addressed to his mother and dated December 24, 1918, was written just a month after Armistice Day–the end of World War I.  Jesse’s little brother, Virgil, numbered as only the second Hoosier killed in the Great War.

“How are all of you?  I am feeling fine.  I will spend Xmas eve walking post and Xmas afternoon doing the same.

“I was up to base headquarters day B/4 yesterday and found out where Virgil was buried.  The chaplain that use to be with the 18th Inf. is stationed here.  He told me all that he knew about it.

“He said that Virgil was the first or second man to fall.  He is buried about ten miles from Nancy at a place by the name of Bauzenconte.

“… This chaplain said Virgil was one fine man and a very good soldier and very well thot of by the men in his company.

“… I think I can go see where Virgil is before I come home.”

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