A World War Never Again

Dear Editor,

I am a Private in the 80th infantry division, and this is a plea for all those who are oblivious to the ravages of war. The German forces are taking us apart piece by piece, trench by trench, until there are only the mangled bodies of the dead left behind for burial. The bravery I feel for fighting for what I believe is right is being slowly diminished with every sight I see. I fear I may be next to die and be forgotten, but I must inform you of the travesty we men face everyday.

I am forced to eat much less than I desire to, and it is tough to carry on at times. Rations have been cut down to the point where we are barley surviving, it is hard to bare. Consuming little food is just one of the hardships I’ve witnessed. If the Germans don’t annihilate us with heavy artillery, the lice and swamp foot with be the end of us all. Death by guns would be a blessing in this cold, desolate wasteland. The rain is our enemy; it coats the bottom of our trenches and makes it hard to maneuver. I feel filthy like I never have before, it is a feeling I would never wish upon any person. I am kept awake at night hearing men moan and weep over their infections, ailments, and miseries. I write to you knowing I will not live for mush longer, and I am proud to die for my country. I warn the world outside the battle field, unless you are here next to me, fighting along side with we brave men, you will never know the cost of freedom. It’s a very high price indeed.

-Anonymous