[“With the Colors”]
[YMCA]
4/11/18
Dear Mother:
I took off civilian clothes today for I do not know how long, and expressed them to
Dunns Station. They will probably stop at Hackneys. I was enlisted today. We had our
examination yesterday and I passed a very good examination, although I am not positive that my
discharge may possibly mean limited military service. Yesterday and today have been very
strenuous days. I came to Columbus on a train that left Pittsburgh at 5:35, P.M., Tuesday, and
got into Columbus about 10:30 Central time. I stayed at a hotel until morning as I did not
imagine the Barracks would be very pleasant that night. It was snowing yesterday morning when
I awoke, making the day more disagreeable than usual for a physical examination. I was very
fortunate. I got here between seven and eight and was called for examination just after lunch.
We took out insurance this morning. I took out to the limit--$10000\00. I thought that if I
should die or be killed, I might as well be worth something to somebody. That, however, is
probably much in excess of my actual value. I took it out in your name. I suppose you will have
no objection to my having it transferred to my wife should I get married. You see I also thought
that might be some inducment [sic] to some woman to marry me.
I do not know yet when we will be sent back to Pittsburgh. I do not imagine they will
keep us here long.
Thus far, they have been unable to fit me in shoes. They have them long enough, but
about three or four sizes too large in width. Uncle Sam did not know I would go into the Army
again after turning me down on my feet once.
Have met some fine fellows here. And to see the crowd you would think enough to lick
the Kiser [sic] themselves.
Well, it is 8:30 and the lights go out at 9:00. I must close and get over to the Barracks. I
am now at the Y.M.C.A.
Good night
Your son,
Guy
12th Company
Columbus Barracks,
Columbus, Ohio