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I'm afraid to fall asleep. Two nights ago, while I was sleeping, someone threw a firebomb into the building where we had set up base camp. It burned the building to the ground, and the locals all cheered about it.

Luckily no one was hurt, but you never know where the next thing is coming from. I hate it here.

I know that I always wanted to see the world, but not like this. I gotta go. I'm on the next watch. Keep trying to bring me home. Give Kallie a big hug and kiss for me. I love you mom.

Signed,

Your Loving Son,

Pvt. 1st Clss.

P.S., I just got word. Martin is gone, he's dead. I can't believe he's gone. Get me out of here! I don't want to die!!

*****

My Dearest Son,

December 17th.

I'm not sure if this will reach you before you make the journey home, but I had to write to you and try to give you the good news myself. Everything is going to be just fine. Just be a little patient Darling.

Bill and I went to see Congressman Richards in person at the Capitol yesterday. He's a very nice man. After Bill told him about our situation, he explained that because you are the only son in our family, and that you are needed at home to support the family as head of the household.

It is considered a 'hardship case', and they can still release you with honorable status, he has helped us file the paperwork himself.

That qualifies you for immediate discharge. I do have to admit that we stretched the truth just a bit more than I like, but Bill said that if we didn't, they probably never even consider letting you go. Mr. Richards told us that he would start the ball in motion right away.

That means, YOUR COMING HOME! He even said that if things work out just right, you could be home by the day before Christmas Eve. So, you just sit tight and try to relax. You'll get the orders real soon and then you'll be out of there for good.

Also, Bill has arranged a very good job for you, managing his store.

He says he was planning on taking more time off anyway, and that he wouldn't trust anyone else to do it better than you. So, you even have a job already waiting for you, if you want it.

As for school, we will figure something out and you will go to school. I promise you!

We have all missed you so much. It will be wonderful to hold my boy in my arms again.