Folder 30

Oct 16. Letter to Father from Springfield. Begins with “more ancient history Oct 15th a year ago.” Mentions that he is in regimental headquarters with Donovan and then describes the battle that began that included the anticipated arrival of their tanks but they had to go back because of mechanical problems or damage caused by the enemy; describes Donovan being wounded in the leg and how he remained directing the battle until he became too weak and had to be taken away; he told Wheatley to communicate the plan to pull back; discusses new chain of command that took Donovan’s place, including himself as adjutant and “Bootz” the acting major, and ensuing battle and conditions. They stayed entrenched for 10 days and he described conditions when they experienced bombardments everyday at 5:00 am.