TRANSCRIBED FROM THE MENA EVENING STAR DECEMBER 29, 1917 P. 3
Newport R. I., Dec. 24, 1917.
To the Editor of The Star and Polk County Friends:
I am now in the Mine Force here at Newport, R. I. We are at present laying mines at various places along the eastern coast.
I was on the U. S. S. San Francisco for a few days before coming here, but have been assigned to the U. S. Roanoke, which is still in dry dock at New York City, undergoing repairs.
As soon as she goes into commission we will do our part in helping “can the Kaiser.” I am now a 3rd class gunner’s mate, and will take the examination in a few days for 2nd class. I will be in charge of one of the 4-inch guns on my ship, and here’s hoping I get to sink one of the Kaiser’s “subs.”
I like the life in the Navy and think it is a fine place for a young man to serve his country, and there are good chances for a fellow who tries to make good. But after the war is over, give me Polk county and I’ll be content.
I guess every one at home is planning for a nice time Christmas. We sailors are going to have as nice a time as possible.
However, we are not to expect as nice a time as when we were at home. I would be glad to hear from all my old friends or any one else that would care to write, as we get awfully lonesome at times. I will answer all.
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. I am yours in the Navy.
Dewey Brewer.
c/o Mine Force, Cloyne Field Barracks,
Newport, R. I.
NOTES: Dewey P. Brewer was born on July 24, 1898 in Kentucky and died on January 28, 1987, Polk County, Arkansas. He is buried in the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas. His military headstone identifies him as U.S. Navy, World War I. He enlisted on June 30, 1917 and was discharged on June 2, 1919.
TRANSCRIBED BY CAROLYN YANCEY KENT.
Newport R. I., Dec. 24, 1917.
To the Editor of The Star and Polk County Friends:
I am now in the Mine Force here at Newport, R. I. We are at present laying mines at various places along the eastern coast.
I was on the U. S. S. San Francisco for a few days before coming here, but have been assigned to the U. S. Roanoke, which is still in dry dock at New York City, undergoing repairs.
As soon as she goes into commission we will do our part in helping “can the Kaiser.” I am now a 3rd class gunner’s mate, and will take the examination in a few days for 2nd class. I will be in charge of one of the 4-inch guns on my ship, and here’s hoping I get to sink one of the Kaiser’s “subs.”
I like the life in the Navy and think it is a fine place for a young man to serve his country, and there are good chances for a fellow who tries to make good. But after the war is over, give me Polk county and I’ll be content.
I guess every one at home is planning for a nice time Christmas. We sailors are going to have as nice a time as possible.
However, we are not to expect as nice a time as when we were at home. I would be glad to hear from all my old friends or any one else that would care to write, as we get awfully lonesome at times. I will answer all.
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. I am yours in the Navy.
Dewey Brewer.
c/o Mine Force, Cloyne Field Barracks,
Newport, R. I.
NOTES: Dewey P. Brewer was born on July 24, 1898 in Kentucky and died on January 28, 1987, Polk County, Arkansas. He is buried in the Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas. His military headstone identifies him as U.S. Navy, World War I. He enlisted on June 30, 1917 and was discharged on June 2, 1919.
TRANSCRIBED BY CAROLYN YANCEY KENT.