Thursday, February 19, 1942

Fort McArts, Belfast Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

Vivienne

I arrived in Belfast in the early morning hours on Tuesday; we were all tired and weary from our long journey and in a most foul mood. But we are glad to be off of the ship and on dry land. I have seen very little of Belfast as of yet. I hope that we will receive some leave time and I can sightsee a little. But for now we are very busy, we are relieving a regiment of Brits. We will guard Ireland while they head off to North Africa to do some real fighting.

Most of our time has been spent moving into our barracks, and unloading our equipment. The only weapon I get to use here in Ireland is a broom. Our barracks is an old brick warehouse that looks a hundred years old, it’s cold and drafty. But it is heated by these huge coal fired iron stoves that sit in the middle of the huge room. It’s blazing hot near them and cold nearer the walls. Only a few of the bunks are in the middle where the temperature is comfortable, so most of us are either burning up or, like myself, cold.

I was very disappointed that no letters from you have reached me here. But it was just wishful thinking on my part that they would get here so soon. I’m sure you have written like you promised, but I shall just have to try to patient. But you know that is not one my strong suits.

Love

Jack