TRANSCRIBED FROM THE OSCEOLA TIMES OCTOBER 5 1917 P. 1
Mr. S. E. Simonson,
Luxora, Ark.
Dear Sir and Friend:
As you are due much credit for encouraging and assisting some of us boys to get off to war, here is a letter from one of Uncle Sam’s boys. I failed in my former attempts to get into the army, though at last I succeeded.
Have been here two months; don’t know when I am going over, but soon, I hope, for I want to go to France.
I am not exactly wild for a fight, but will do my best to help save my country.
The army life is just fine. Better hurry boys, and not wait to be dragged in. You will have more satisfaction while in the service and with yourselves afterward if you come willingly.
I like my friends and the little old town of Luxora, but my country needs me and I must go and I do not want to be a slacker under my flag.
Please ask the editor to send me the home paper. If you will your kindness will be greatly appreciated. It will be a great pleasure to get news from home and Mississippi County. I must now say goodbye.
Frank Wilson
The boy who tried to go to Mexico and hopes to go to France.
Army and Navy Y.M.C.A., 40th Infantry, Ft. Snelling, Minn.
NOTES: The heading of the letter stated that he was one of the first to volunteer from Osceola District.
TRANSCRIBED BY SHANNON SOUTHARD