George J. Maguolo letter to Folks - March 14, 1918
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[page1] France March 14, 1918. Dear Folks - Have moved again and now am doing a very interesting work. One morning I was called to the Major’s office and he told me I was to be sent to a part of the French front were there were no Americans and where I was to study a special French Method, and later return as a teacher to our Headquarters. I was
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[page 2] very happy to think that they had chosen me for the work. And here I am after a long trip right among the French. (Have been here 5 days, will remain about a month). My French is improving wonderfully, for English is of no value here. We are so close to the Line that air battles are common and planes flock the air like birds. Am quite used to the guns
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[page 3] by now, although once in a while during the night when the anti-aircraft guns are in action it is hard to sleep. The big boys jar stuff off the shelves. All of this territory was once in enemy hands so you may know what condition it is in. Most interesting of all is our meals and quarters. The half dozen men & officers that are teaching me are all sculptors & artists from Paris
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[page 4] and a jolly lot. We have a very comfortable “Studio” with a dug out near as a retreat from raids etc. The French meals are very good with wine for every meal. And let me say that when I return you may place a bottle before me for every meal. Really like it by now. But the bread is not so good as ours. Round, brown sawdust crusts loaves – we are allowed ½ loaf per day. I would
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[page 5] like to remain here because they are such a jolly good bunch always happy - singing & laughing. They never (or hardly ever drink water) so the wine may be the reason. But don’t worry about my drinking. “[ms illegible: 1 wd] entered rooms did you not? – tell me about it.” Am inclosing a little poem that I lettered one spare hour - not a sample of lettering but a very good
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[page 6] poem. – the drawing I made the “Bunks “I have met” is being held by a certain officer back at headquarters. Have received no mail as yet but hope so when I return. Sincerely [Private] George Maguolo 447th Engineers [General Headquarters] A. E. F.
Details
| Title | George J. Maguolo letter to Folks - March 14, 1918 |
| Creator | Maguolo, George J. |
| Source | Maguolo, George J. Letter to Folks. 14 March 1918. George J. Maguolo Papers, 1917-1945. A0969. Missouri History Museum, St. Louis, Missouri. |
| Description | George J. Maguolo wrote a letter to his parents on March 14, 1918 while in France. Maguolo was in the 447th Depot Detachment, 25th Engineers and served in the 29th Engineers in France until 1919. In this letter Maguolo wrote that he had been sent near the front lines for training on a special map making technique that the French used. Maguolo explained that he was the only American participating in the training and that he would have to teach his peers the technique upon his return. |
| Subject LCSH | World War, 1914-1918; Military training |
| Subject Local | WWI; World War I |
| Site Accession Number | A0969 |
| Contributing Institution | Missouri History Museum |
| Copy Request | Transmission or reproduction of items on these pages beyond those allowed by fair use requires the written permission of the Missouri History Museum: 314-746-4510 |
| Rights | The text and images contained in this collection are intended for research and educational use only. Duplication of any of these images for commercial use without express written consent is expressly prohibited. Contact the Missouri History Museum's Permissions Office at 314-746-4511 to obtain written consent. |
| Date Original | March 14, 1918 |
| Language | English |