Last letter sent by 2nd Lt. William G. ‘Bill’ Jacobs to his family, Westover Field, Mass., Jan. 1, 1944
Dear Mom & Dad and all:
This is going to be my last letter for a while as we are moving out immediately. I have been told the theater of our operations and am well satisfied with it. I am glad that at last all this training can be put to use. Our squadron is the first one to leave but we will all get together again before we actually begin combat flying. I wish I could tell you a little more to ease your minds but you understand that I cannot. I think I will be able to drop you a line or so at various stops along the way but I am not sure so if you don’t hear from me for a couple of weeks I don’t want you to get anxious.
I realize what I am going into and know what dangers I will be in but I will be able to face them knowing that what I am doing isn’t in vain and that when we do ultimately emerge as the victors in this war we can be in the position to be victors in a just peace. I am ready if necessary to die for my country, if I have to, and will not shirk it if called on to do so. I don’t want to sound heroic or even pessimistic, but that whatever comes it will be because I was doing my part and was happy to be able to do it.
If I do have to meet my Maker, you’ll know that I was ready and able to meet Him in a spiritual way. My religion has always meant a lot to me and in these times more than ever. I do know that whatever comes, God Almighty has foreseen it and willed it that way. Remember that, Mother and Dad, that nothing happens that He hasn’t wanted that way.
I guess that sounds pretty serious but I want you to know I’m not going into war with an empty head. I am in the very best of health and in fine spirits, all of we boys are, and are very anxious to get in there to help end this all. We are thoroughly familiar with an airplane that is built as only we Americans know how, that still means a great deal as far as winning the battle.
I want to say how proud I am of my Father and Mother and brothers and sisters, no boy ever had a happier home and it is the one great incentive to come back as soon as possible. I hope I’ve been all you could ask for in a son, I’ve tried to be a good one though at times I know you doubted it. Anyway, thanks for being just the swellest bunch in the world.
Keep writing often, you’ll get my A.P.O. number a few days after we’re gone so I guess it’s best to use “V” mail, I think it will be faster. I guess I’ll have to close this now, dear ones, though I know it is painfully short, I’ve got a terrible lot of work and very little time left. Have faith in God and ask him in your prayers to keep me strong and able to do my job. My thoughts and prayers are always with you.
A very grateful son,
BILL
Dear Mom & Dad and all:
This is going to be my last letter for a while as we are moving out immediately. I have been told the theater of our operations and am well satisfied with it. I am glad that at last all this training can be put to use. Our squadron is the first one to leave but we will all get together again before we actually begin combat flying. I wish I could tell you a little more to ease your minds but you understand that I cannot. I think I will be able to drop you a line or so at various stops along the way but I am not sure so if you don’t hear from me for a couple of weeks I don’t want you to get anxious.
I realize what I am going into and know what dangers I will be in but I will be able to face them knowing that what I am doing isn’t in vain and that when we do ultimately emerge as the victors in this war we can be in the position to be victors in a just peace. I am ready if necessary to die for my country, if I have to, and will not shirk it if called on to do so. I don’t want to sound heroic or even pessimistic, but that whatever comes it will be because I was doing my part and was happy to be able to do it.
If I do have to meet my Maker, you’ll know that I was ready and able to meet Him in a spiritual way. My religion has always meant a lot to me and in these times more than ever. I do know that whatever comes, God Almighty has foreseen it and willed it that way. Remember that, Mother and Dad, that nothing happens that He hasn’t wanted that way.
I guess that sounds pretty serious but I want you to know I’m not going into war with an empty head. I am in the very best of health and in fine spirits, all of we boys are, and are very anxious to get in there to help end this all. We are thoroughly familiar with an airplane that is built as only we Americans know how, that still means a great deal as far as winning the battle.
I want to say how proud I am of my Father and Mother and brothers and sisters, no boy ever had a happier home and it is the one great incentive to come back as soon as possible. I hope I’ve been all you could ask for in a son, I’ve tried to be a good one though at times I know you doubted it. Anyway, thanks for being just the swellest bunch in the world.
Keep writing often, you’ll get my A.P.O. number a few days after we’re gone so I guess it’s best to use “V” mail, I think it will be faster. I guess I’ll have to close this now, dear ones, though I know it is painfully short, I’ve got a terrible lot of work and very little time left. Have faith in God and ask him in your prayers to keep me strong and able to do my job. My thoughts and prayers are always with you.
A very grateful son,
BILL
