No Man's Land

Cpl. George A. Camden, 351st Infantry, American Expeditionary Forces.
Houdelaincourt, France.
1, January 1919.
To Rev. G.T. Kenner, Kirksville, MO.

Dear Bro. Kenner & Family,
I have often thought of writing to you but never got to it. Lots of times I would be far from the Y.M.C.A. of Salvation Army and have no stationary or very little. But I am now located just a few rods from a S.A. hut, where I am now writing. We have been in this town longer than I ever was in one place here before. I guess our company has been located this long in one or two places on the front but my duties as signal man require me to go out with some battalion when in action. I am rated as a visual signalman but I operated a buzzerphone while on the front. A visual signalman is supposed to take care of signalling by flags (two methods), both Wigwag and Semaphore, also by blinker lights, and panel signalling to aeroplanes. This is supposed to include the use of rockets and other fireworks, too. Our division, the 88th has credit for 2 months active war service. If I get back home in time, I would like to attend K.S.N.S. this spring and summer — but I am afraid I wont get there in time. I would get the 90 hr. Diploma which carries the life time right to teach in any High school in Missouri. Another summer would give me the 120 Hr. Diploma and the Bachelor of Science degree which is good in almost any state. If I go on teaching, it is the only thing to do. Are you still having so much influenza there? I hope none of you have been bothered with it. I have received no letters from home for about a month. I had a letter from Jessie about a week ago — also one from Harry Bamburg, of the Band F. Clothing Store there in Kirksville. I also got a little circular letter from Herboth, I believe it was it was. I guess those old Dutch men want to sell me a summer suit this summer. They are certainly pushing business-advertising across the pond. What is Clarence doing this winter? I sure was sorry to hear of your resigning at V.W. I often lay in bed at night in my old barn and try to picture to myself what the old place at home, Glenwood and surrounding vicinity looks like. It would sure look good to see it again. I hope this finds all of you well and safe. May be I will see you almost as soon as you get this but I am afraid not. I must close
Sincerely yours,
Corp. Geo. A. Camden.

Msv1_C. Violette Collection of WWI Soldiers’ Letters. Mudsp Collection  V1. Truman State University Special Collections.