Today in the Written Richert Record: BBR to Robert 15 APR 1945

April 15th 44[1]

Dear Robert:[2]

Many things have happened since my last letter to you. As you already know, of which is no need of recounting. This all (sic) been very sad. My first thought what will become of our country now, but there is alway (sic) some to step in and carry on[3]. If Truman will be a strong as Roosevelt was time will tell. But from what the news and radio says, it looks as if U.S. will united (sic) the back of him which will be a help he has as yet no enemy.

The last few weeks some of our best citizens have passed away such as Will Schmalle and Gerald Catamio[4] and a few others all about the same age, as Pres Roseville. If you would write to Mrs. Catamio I know it would please her very much, she would often ask about you and speak of as one of her boys. Her address is 545 N. Van Ness Mrs. Schmalle is 1908 Lewis Ave.

Julius was home for a few days Sun April 8, till last Friday. He sure did some work around the place, it looks very much better, I don't mind doing the watering and take care of the flowers. In a letter from Walt yesterday he will be in Austin Texas for about two weeks, said something about coming to Calif soon, don't know when, Marian said something about last summer, as you hear from them often you may know more than I.

With much love Mother.[5]

[1] This is a mistake on BBR’s part. The envelope is postmarked 1945 and the events described in the letter prove that 1945 is the correct year in which the letter is written. Postmarked APR 16, 12:30 PM, 1945

[2] Envelope is addressed to: Lt Robert B Richert 02071698, 99^th Bom Gp. 346 Bm Sq.,APO 520c/o P.M. New York City.

[3] The state and shock expressed is a common theme in most recollections from this time. The general population was not accurately informed of FDR’s true health situation and his death was quite shocking.

[4] The transcription is questionable. A Google search will retrieve some hits with “Catamio” and Fresno, but there is no confirmation as of yet.

[5] Return address is a preprinted label: Mrs. C. Richert, 1130 T Street, Fresno 1 California.