TRANSCRIBED FROM THE NEWPORT DAILY INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 19, 1918 P. 3
I am well and getting along fine, especially with my work. I am in the casualty section of the statistical division of the central record office. It is entirely office work, and I am well pleased. I am not here by choice, as I came over as a casual and was with my brother, Darnell, until we reached the classification camp, where the personnel board separated us. My having had clerical experience they decided I would be “of greater service to my country here than with a gun.” However, I took the full course of intensive training and am considered well trained, as I came over with the volunteers from Camp Beauregard.
I came across in June on an American transport, and it certainly was a pleasure in spite of the danger from submarines. The weather was ideal and the ocean as smooth as glass all the way.
Since coming to France I have had the pleasure of seeing some of the beautiful cities and while in them I saw some interesting and historical places. I shall never forget them, as they were very educational.
At present I am in the city of Bourge, which is a beautiful place and has one of the famous cathedrals of France. Its architecture is beyond description.
I will close for this time. With love to all,
Your nephew,
Private Otto D. Coffin,
Co. D. Hd. Bu. G.H.C.,
A.P., 902, A.E.F.
NOTES: This letter was written by Coffin to his Aunt Sarah Rorex of Swifton, Arkansas.
TRANSCRIBED BY JEFF PATRICK
I am well and getting along fine, especially with my work. I am in the casualty section of the statistical division of the central record office. It is entirely office work, and I am well pleased. I am not here by choice, as I came over as a casual and was with my brother, Darnell, until we reached the classification camp, where the personnel board separated us. My having had clerical experience they decided I would be “of greater service to my country here than with a gun.” However, I took the full course of intensive training and am considered well trained, as I came over with the volunteers from Camp Beauregard.
I came across in June on an American transport, and it certainly was a pleasure in spite of the danger from submarines. The weather was ideal and the ocean as smooth as glass all the way.
Since coming to France I have had the pleasure of seeing some of the beautiful cities and while in them I saw some interesting and historical places. I shall never forget them, as they were very educational.
At present I am in the city of Bourge, which is a beautiful place and has one of the famous cathedrals of France. Its architecture is beyond description.
I will close for this time. With love to all,
Your nephew,
Private Otto D. Coffin,
Co. D. Hd. Bu. G.H.C.,
A.P., 902, A.E.F.
NOTES: This letter was written by Coffin to his Aunt Sarah Rorex of Swifton, Arkansas.
TRANSCRIBED BY JEFF PATRICK