December 31, 1919 – January 4, 1983
United States Army
Joe Lichtenbaum sent Mollye this kerchief from his time serving in the Aleutian Islands, one of the lesser known exotic outposts of the war. Letters from Joe depict winter in Alaska as “similar to a Swiss Alpine Resort”. With “guys all over on snowshoes and skis and the usual arctic accoutrements consisting of fur parkas, boots, and rubber clothes…”
Jan. 20th, 1944
Dear Mollye,
Received your v-mail message of January 5th, this evening and thanks for your sincere “New Year Wishes.” Will call Dave on the telephone and let him know that you did receive the flowers, and how much you appreciated his gift. Haven’t seen hide nor hair of our boy for nigh a week, but he is around but pretty busy now doubt. When winter comes in the Aleutian Islands, it’s really WINTER. On a nice day (once in a while we do have them) this place is similar to a Swiss Alpine Resort, guys are all over on snowshoes & skis and the usual arctic accouterments, consisting fur parkas, boots, and rubber clothes against the dampers hereabouts. I’ll wager Dr. Resnick is a person with a ever present smile now-a-days. Can’t blame the Captain, tho, as anyone getting out of here is entitled to plenty of good cheer. Received a nice x-mas bonus check from the Allied Kid Co. and have already written Mr. S. Cohen, a thank you note.
Remember me to all – Joe
P.S. When I see Dave, I’ll dun him for my share of the pin-ups you distributed recently.
February 2, 1943 – “Sometimes News of Loss Comes from the Homefront”
A heartbreaking letter regarding learning about the death of his father.
