Walter Stecewicz - Letters - Nutley Sons Honor Roll

T/Sgt. Walter Stecewicz: Letters Home From Italy

Dear Folks, Nov. 29th 1942

Just received three more letters from you, they were dated respectfully October 16th, 19th, 25th. I also heard from Bill and Lois, Clara, Ben, and Wanda. Here's where I begin to get the writers cramp. Still feeling swell, went to the movies a couple nights ago and saw "The Gay Sisters" with Barbara Stanwyck. I think you'll receive this before the holidays so I'm wishing you all a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year. Gosh, I didn't realize my sisters are 20 yrs (Valerie 81) and 17 yrs old, (Jennie 70 died 1995) my come to think of it I'm getting to be an old man myself. How tall is Eddie now, do you think he beat Lou and I in size? Sure sounds like he's a pretty big fellow. Keep that chin up Jennie, you've got plenty of time. By the way I had some pictures taken with the fellows in my squad today. As soon as we can have them developed, will send then home. Give my regards and Holiday Greetings to Mr & Mrs Horn and family. I hope they're all doing fine. Also same regards to Mr & Mrs Hoffman. Keep the chins up folks and don't worry about me.

Your loving son, Walter.

P.S. Am receiving your stamps okay.

Dear Folks, July 4th 1944

I've received three letters from you, the first dated June 1st, 14th and 19th. That's what you call good mail service. I'm glad all's well back home. With me it's still about the same. Still chasing old Kraut around and keeping pretty low. I would like to tell you more about my experiences but can't right now. You'll have to wait until I get home. And the way things are going along on all fronts, it looks as though it won't be very long now. About sending you some Kraut souvenirs, that's hard to do, for we are not allowed to take a Kraut equipment, after all it belongs to the government. I'll see what I can do about that though.

I heard from Lou and he's over here someplace, but not close enough so that he can dash over to see me. We'll probably run into one another one of these days. Who knows, he might be escorting me home in the future. Ben wrote me and he is now in Corsica, but not any closer to me than before. Also heard from Jean & Gertrude from Detroit. Do you write to them? They are both married and both have children. Their husbands are in the service. Also heard from the Riegers and I wish you would have Jen explain to them why I have not written them in a long time. I lost my address book the last time I was hit.

Well I guess this finishes my letter, regards to all my friends. What's this about Walter Luscz's wife having twins? I heard about Doris and Lois. Let me know how they make out. Take care of yourselves. Your Son,
Walter

WESTERN UNION (Telegram)

Washington DC 1:32P 1944 Nov 28
Mrs Veronica Stecewicz 264 Centre St Nutley NJer=
The Secretary of war asks that I assure you of his deep sympathy in the loss of your son Technical Sergeant Walter A. Stecewicz=
Report received states he died twenty four October in Italy as result of wounds received in action. Letter follows=
Witsell Acting the Adjutant General

War Department Washington DC 29 Nov 1944

Dear Mrs Stecewicz,
I deeply regret that it is necessary to confirm the telegram of recent date informing you of the death of your son, Technical Sergeant Walter A. Stecewicz, 32,181,828, Infantry, who died on 24 October 1944 in Italy (Florence hospital) as a result of wounds received in action on 18 September 1944.

I wish that I could give you more information but unfortunately reports of this nature prepared in active theatres of operations are of necessity brief and contain only essential facts. However, if any further details are received they will be promptly communicated to you.

The significance of his heroic service to his country will be preserved and commemorated by a grateful nation, and it is hoped that this thought may give you strength and courage in your sorrow.

My deepest sympathy is extended to you in your bereavement.

Sincerely yours,

J.A. Ulio Major General
The Adjutant General