7 24 297 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/3852f1941bfde98f85ddfd815d8a1320.pdf f87762acf4bb55897921e836a8195053 PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/a6fa283f62569345b0942e2e6fb1d7db.pdf 9926560c0f7381fc779e14625d755d89 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-27] [Page 1] England May 27, 1944. Hello “Darling,” My thoughts, were of you, all day, today [sic] and how I wished that you could have been here with me. “Darling,” I miss you very, very much and still longing for the day when I shall be with you again. I don’t think that I shall ever let up holding you so close to me. I’m going to shower you with all of the kisses I’ve saved and then chew on your ears a little, just to be a meanie. When that day comes I shall be very tickled and at that [Page 2] I shall not mind. Ha! Ha! You’ve got me this way young lady, so you ought to know what you are in for. Ha! Ha! I thought of a thousand things today all about us and how happy we will be. “Darling” my love for you keeps piling up and if I don’t get to see you soon I’m liable to bust. Won’t that be awful? I’m very happy and contended being engaged to you “Darling’ and shall patiently waite [sic] to get that big engagement kiss I am looking forward to. I’ve re-read your last letter so much about getting the rings that I think I can recite it by heart. Every day that goes by [Page 3] I keep saying, Hope I get a letter from Agnes. [sic] Of course there are days that I’m disappointed but when I do get one it makes up for the days I didn’t get them. Well “Darling” what have you been doing today? Thinking about us? I hope so and if you didn’t, I’ll dig your ribs till you do. I’d like to do it right now because I’m in the mood to tease. Can you stand a little of it? I can! Ha! Ha! Ain’t I awful but remember “Darling,” I’ve been away so long that I just can’t help it. I’m only giving you a small detail of how much I’ve missed you and just waite [sic] till I shall be able to do it. Ha! Ha! [Page 4] I can hardly waite for the day when we can go to so lonely spot [sic] and piece together our future and the happiness we plan to share together. Oh! “Happy Day” when it shall come true!! Don’t you think so? Well “Darling,” I shall close with loads of hugs and kisses from me, for you. Yours forever With Oceans of Love, Joe {Signature accent mark} �PS. I am very anxious to see and wear the ring you got for me. Here’s another clipping for that scrapbook you plan to have. [Envelope front] AFTER 5 DAYS RETURN TO S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE [?] [Postmark partially missing due to stamp removal from top right corner] VIA AIR MAIL Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave. S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-27 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-27 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 27, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 27, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated circa May 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes while stationed in England, full of excitement regarding their engagement and the news that Agnes successfully picked out their wedding rings. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Wedding rings Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/07b5e7bc32e2e5126f732d11b5292ba5.pdf 22afe78804e55bef25367dddf5d9d6b8 PDF Text Text ��������� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/9dc0ef79d7048289baf8c74a884f3ff9.pdf 90ae0dd4985e80166bcf5254cb3361e7 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-26] [Page 1] England May 26, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Rec’d your letter of May 16th and was very pleased to hear you have the rings and I shall always be very anxious to see them. I know I shall like them from your description, so you need not worry none “Darling.” The only disappointing thing now is that I’m not there to put it on your finger and get a sweet kiss from you. I think of you always Darling and love you more as time goes by. I miss you too and the touch of your tender lips pressed closed to mine. Someday I shall be [Page 2] able to do this and squeeze you like I use [sic] to making up all of the lost precious moments being with you. I am very happy to have someone like you, to love, knowing that someday you’ll be my wife and sharing our lives together. I can’t half express how I feel but when I get back “Darling” I shall be able to show you. I did figure the rings would run a little over the amount I sent because of the tax and was very pleased that you told me about it. I doubt nothing of what you write “Darling” and nothing shall spoil our happiness with the both of us feeling the same [Page 3] way. Although this war may keep us apart our thoughts of each other will bring us close together until we shall be and what a grand day that is going to be for us. I want you to be happy and contented always because you mean everything to me. Then some day we shall have a little home of our own and build a small world within it to enjoy. We have so much to plan and do that I can hardly waite [sic] to return and be with you again to complete them. I know the Lord will bless us and help us plan our future and serving him faithfully always. I pray for you every nite [sic] Darling [Page 4] knowing that the Lord will keep you safe for me. The Lord has been with me always and in my hardships of the past, comforting and protecting me from harm. I thank Him for being over here teaching me the way He wants me to live. Not by the dark days of the past, but that of kindness, true faith and serving Him always. In the future days to come, I may have many more hardships but I shall take them in stride knowing that the Lord will always be with me. I look for bright future days with all of the happiness He wants you and I to have. I never cease thanking Him for all He has done and given me and may I ever be a faithful and [Page 5] �loyal Christian soldier in His great and mighty army. I’m not a perfect Christian but I shall be with His divine help. I got a package from Helen today with candy cookies and popcorn and was it ever good. I’m anxious to get your package too “Darling” and the cookies if you’ve made some. Don’t worry about me not liking them because you’ve made them for me. I was just teasing in my other letters and I shall be patient and never want you to be discouraged. I’m still very excited about you having the rings and if you were here with me now, I’d want to hold you in my arms and tell you [Page 6] how much I’m in love. Well if you don’t want me to send you that extra money for the rings I’ll have to think of a way to make that up. Do you have any suggestions? Ha! Ha! Sometime in the future I plan to send you the money for a wedding gown or would you want to waite [sic] till I get back? I’ve got one thousand and fifty dollars including my war bonds saved and I shall keep saving, so that we can have a pretty good start when we are married. I know that you plan to save too and its swell for I want you to have everything you deserve. I saw a “Jeep” today with Gloria’s name on [Page 7] it and was wondering if she turned into one and joined the army. I wouldn’t doubt it none. Ha! Ha! How are your folks? Did you mother get my letter? Don’t forget to give them my regards and that I asked about them. No, “Darling,” I don’t think you’re a showoff by wearing your ring because it’s grand being engaged to you and if anyone envies you, it will please me more. I shall remember to button up that dress or if it is worn out you shall some other one I can button. [sic] What do you think of that? I still haven’t heard from home and I’m very anxious to hear from them. I shall write another letter to my folks tomorrow. [Page 8] I’m surprising myself finding out that I’m on my eighth page. I need a pat on the back. Ha! Ha! I’ve enjoyed your kisses very much “Darling” and even though I can’t send you any, my thoughts are of you getting them, when I bring yours to my lips. Well “Darling” I shall close with all my love to you. Bye “Darling” until I hear from you again. Yours forever, With Loads of hugs and kisses {symbols} “Joe” {Signature accent mark} PS. Have you taken any pictures lately? I haven’t re-read this letter, so don’t forget to excuse the mistakes, will you? �[Envelope front] AFTER 5 DAYS RETURN TO S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE [?] [Postmark partially missing due to stamp removal from top right corner] VIA AIR MAIL Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave. S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-26 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-26 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 26, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 26, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated circa May 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes with excitement after receiving the good news of their wedding rings, wishing he was there to propose to her in person, and holding onto his faith to keep him strong while they are apart. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Wedding rings Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/45ba10a672130b92b4bbdc49d8a24bf3.pdf 6a52b153767b3944879e680a2e203194 PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/a3ce156f3ac71e69bebe9313c39a4726.pdf 91c6994e8ca212185f21c08fa933f62f PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-24] [Page 1] England May 24, 1944. Hello “Sugar,” Haven’t much to do at present so I decided to write you another letter. You are always in my thoughts “Darling” and at times, I wish that I were with you to tell you how much I’ve missed you. What a grand day it will be when it comes? Especially when I can be with you and tell you how much “I love you.” I am still very happy to be engaged to you “Darling” and can hardly waite [sic] for the day when we can make all of our plans come true. If you were here with me now I’d squeeze you [Page 2] with all of my might and knip [sic] that nose of yours, just to be a tease. I’d also pull out some of your curls, to have you make them up again. We shall not get any rest as you say, but “Darling,” it will be worth it. Anyway, I’ve got to make up a lot of lost time so I don’t think you would mind or would you? Ha! Ha! It’s swell to think that someday you’ll be my wife and that we shall always be happy, sharing our lives together. Both of us aren’t perfect but we shall get used to each other’s ways then we shall be, won’t we, “Sweets”? I’m anxious to get your answers to my questions I’ve asked you [Page 3] in my other letters and hope those letters get here soon. When I hear from you each time, I think of the days we spent together and it makes me want to be with you. I can’t tell you how much I love you, but I sure can feel it and everything tingles inside of me. I got a letter from Helen today and everything is fine with her. She expects to go up home for my mother and father’s wedding anniversary. I hope that she will be able to see you too when she is there. I suppose you are looking for the rings you like and I shall be very anxious to see them till that time comes. I haven’t rec’d your letter stating that [Page 4] you got the money but Helen said she sent it to you. Just another month and it will be 2 years since I saw you last and it seems like ten. Each day that goes by brings me close to you and that I shall be able to hold you in my arms again. Shall close for this time “Sweets” with loads of hugs and kisses. Yours Always, With All my Love, Joe {Signature accent mark} �{Hand-drawn symbols representing hugs and kisses} PS. If you can send me some blue ink in one of you packages, do so, for I haven’t much ink left? [Envelope front] AFTER 5 DAYS RETURN TO S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 172 MAY 26 1944 A.P.O. VIA AIR MAIL Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave. S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-24 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-24 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 24, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 24, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated May 26, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes from England as he is approaching his two year mark of being overseas. He is happily engaged to Agnes, dreaming of the day when they can make their future plans come true, and anxiously awaiting news of the wedding rings she has picked out for the two of them back home in the United States. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Wedding rings Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/3b22237ea1d44b6cf3424bb8cef01484.pdf 9682d9e2d4eb019f9acb623878b93cab PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/093392cb2ab74192da9100b8637d802c.pdf aaed137fa731e28bf7301335a51e7c53 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-21] [Page 1] England May 21, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Just got back from church and what a swell service it was. I thought of you being here with me too “Darling” and you never slip my mind, for more than a few minutes at a time. I miss you very much “Darling” and still long for the day when we will be together and tell you how much I’ve missed you. Not only that but to squeeze you as much as I can, to give you a small idea of how much I love you. I can hardly waite [sic] too, to plan our future together and be very [Page 2] happy, sharing our lives together. You keep wiggling so much inside of me that at times I don’t know what to do. See what you’ve done young lady? But I’ll get even someday, just waite and see?!! [sic] Ha! Ha! Maybe, sometime I will steal in to chew your ears while you are sleeping and I’ll bite real hard. That’s going to please me very much too! Ha! Ha! How are your folks these days? Don’t forget to mention that I asked about them. I still haven’t heard from home but expect to any day now. I’m still hoping that my mother, Ollie, and Francis will have time to visit you and the folks soon. I’ve written and asked them too and I know they will. They think a lot of you too “Darling” and they never fail [Page 3] to mention something about you in there [sic] letters to me. I saw two movies lately and one wasn’t as good as I thought it would be. They are “Tarzan Triumphs” (not so hot) and “Light of Heart” which was good. I’m going again tonite [sic] but don’t know what the picture will be as yet. I hope to get that picture of you with your Easter outfit, for I’d like to see what it’s like. Don’t forget to send it, will you? Have you made any cookies for me? If you haven’t, you’d better get started for I’m “starved.” I haven’t rec’d Helen’s packages as yet and hope they don’t get here mashed. Well “Darling” what have you been doing today? Thinking about us? If not I’ll knip [sic] that [Page 4] nose of yours for being so forgetful. Ain’t I a meanie though? Went over to see Roy but he wasn’t in. He’s a hard man to find. He still writes to Mrs. Wenenburg, so they’ll be mighty surprised to hear that we are engaged and that none of their gossip about us was very effective. The nerve of them. Well “Sweets” I shall close with all my love to you. Yours forever, With loads of hugs and kisses {symbols}, “Joe” �{Signature accent mark} PS. I’ll be needing some writing material soon so I hope you have a package on the way. [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE MAY 23 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave. S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-21 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-21 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 21, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 21, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated May 23, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes after an enjoyable church service, wishing she were there with him and hoping their families will visit each other back home in Michigan. He also writes of the recent movies he has seen including "Tarzan Triumphs" and "Light of Heart." Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Church services Motion pictures--1940-1950 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/c9a494b6996b749d82f0c98b2f373b44.pdf e757839903e157fc68f5adc34a1c4994 PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/36a695dde3ad0b2c6db5411b82a8a0f9.pdf c0c2f150474b0094c6ee969058c63958 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-20] [Page 1] England May 20, 1944. Hello “Darling,” I rec’d two of your latest letters day [sic] May 10th, 11th, and a V-mail from Helen. It sure was grand to hear from you again “Sweets” and I always waite [sic] for them to arrive. I love you as much as ever and my thoughts are always of you. Was pleased to hear that you’ve got another raise. You’ll make that million yet, if you keep doing your best. I wouldn’t doubt but in a little while you’ll be earning more money than what I do. I earn a hundred and twenty dollars a month besides my living, etc. I am [Page 2] trying to save a hundred a month now so we can have a good start when we get married. I save just enough for expenses and the rest goes for savings for our future. I can hardly wait till I return and anxiously awaite [sic] for the day to come when we can be together for good. That’s going to be grand for us, isn’t it “Sweets”? If I could squeeze you right now, I’d show you what I mean! Ha! Ha! I’m still fortunate to have a girl like you and happy to now that someday in the future you shall be my wife. Yes!! We have so much to plan together that I think we may not know where [Page 3] to begin. But we shall get started somehow. Is it so? Helen also stated that she sent you the money I told her to and I guess you are busy looking for the rings you want? Wish I were there to go with you but I know I shall like the ones you get without me being there. I try not to worry about you “Darling” but when I don’t hear from you regularly I just start in worrying again. [sic] That’s bad, ain’t it? I’m being teased on this end as much as you are “Sweets” but it doesn’t hinder me none. When they do that, I shall love you more and some of them may be jealous when they tease. Don’t you think so? Someday we shall have a nice home. We shall be very happy too and not [Page 4] one moment shall we forget the Lord and his blessings upon us. He is very understanding and when we bring our plans, troubles, and disappointments before Him, He shall help us to overcome them. I’m not a perfect Christian but that is one of my greatest ambitions. There is one verse I shall always try to remember which is “Lo, I am always with you.” There is a lot of meaning in that verse when one stops to think. Well Darling, I never cease thanking God for having such a swell girl as you and may he bless and keep you safe for me. Will close for this time and write real soon. �Yours Always With Loads of Love & Kisses, Joe {Signature accent mark} [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE MAY 30 1944 A.P.O. VIA AIR MAIL Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave. S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-20 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-20 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 20, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 20, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated May 30, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes while sharing his admiration for his future wife and pride in her recent accomplishments at work. He also writes of his faith and how blessed he is to have Agnes in his life. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Weddings--Planning Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/2a3e0acb361e5e16bfee3c4f06a4b7cb.pdf 2ebf257f61364426333af081737fa86b PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/b02b1f884098b7156fb209e7755cec2a.pdf 5f6a8aabec0a9a5a65fa521c94c3dbd8 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-12] [Page 1] England May 12, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Got your two letters dated May 2nd and 3rd and the one from your mother. It sure was grand to hear from the both of you and I don’t mean maybe. They got here in eight days too. That is a surprise for me, isn’t it? I got the small pictures of Gloria & Beasie that your mother sent and must say that the both of them have changed. Especially Beasie. She’s grown and changed very much. She also resembles you a lot too. Roy was down nite [sic] before last to visit me. I expect to get that wedding picture he promised me sometime next week. I went to the movies last nite [Page 2] and saw “White Cargo”. The picture is fair. Did you see it? I still miss you “Darling” and love you more each day. If I could bite your ears a few times now, it would please me very much. Ha! Ha! I’m still very anxious for that day to come when we shall be together and hope that we can see each other for a long time. You bet that we shall be happy and being contented and my love for you Sweets will never cease. Anyway, I know that you shall be a swell wife and that makes me a fortunate fellow. I hope that by the time you get this letter that Helen has sent you the money I had her draw out of the bank for [Page 3] the rings. Yes, a nice small wedding is ideal but I don’t care how big it will be as long as I can make you happy. I’ve really enjoyed the kisses you sent Sweets and I always look forward to getting them. It’s lucky I got your two letters together or I would have been disappointed. So you’ve got a puppy now. You’ve already spoiled it by babying it so much. Now you’ll have a job on your hands. I have not heard from my folks as yet since I told them of getting engaged but I know that they approve, being that they like you. I also think about us “Sweets” and it shall be great when we can talk together planning our future. Won’t it? [Page 4] I don’t think I could be a very good teacher to teach you how to swim and keep my mind on work because I haven’t seen you in so long that I’d want to hold you so tight and tell you how much I’m in love. Do you blame me? Well “Darling,” I shall close, with all my love for you. Yours forever, With Loads of hugs and kisses {symbols}, Joe {Signature accent mark} �PS. Don’t forget to send me some more pictures when you get them. Write real soon. [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE [?] MAY 14 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave. S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-12 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-12 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 12, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 12, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated May 14, 1944. In the letter, Joe shares his excitement over their initial wedding plans with Agnes as he awaits his parents' response regarding their good news. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Motion pictures--1940-1950 Weddings--Planning Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/5a918e444eb4e2b27044f4389c966131.pdf 75a4470e2e16f6e9bece9f2513fb9755 PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/ed30267bb8172d0fd5a39962ef1f1d47.pdf 285e4ddb4da923c981d43a6dabcc0c19 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-08] [Page 1] England May 8, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Here I am again today and my thoughts were of you since it’s been lovely out. Anyway, it’s one thing that I can’t forget because you keep wiggling deeper and deeper inside of me. I still miss you as much as ever “Sweets” and love you more as the days go by. I sure would like to chew on your ears right now and that would suit me to a “T.” Got another V-mail from Helen stating that she has heard from you and sends her congratulations to the both of us. Well, “Sweets” what have you been up to today? Out window shopping? You should be because it’s your [Page 2] day off. Went to the movies last night to see Thunder Bird which was pretty good. Movies are a great past time for me, since I’m so far away from you and young lady when I do see you again, you’ll never have any rest. Ain’t I awful mean? You’d better let me in on some of your secrets pretty soon oughtn’t you? I gave you most of mine and if you don’t I knip [sic] that Dutch nose of yours till you do. Scared any? Ha! Ha! I have not rec’d your mother’s letter as yet but expect it any day now. You can bet your boots that I’m a very happy and fortunate man of your folks approval and being engaged to a swell girl like you. I saw Roy again last nite and expect to get that picture he promised me when [Page 3] he comes over to see me. I guess he still hasn’t gotten over the surprise I gave him yesterday. I shall send another request for the cookies today and here’s hoping you have some on the way from my last request. Or haven’t you rec’d that letter I sent in as yet. Helen will send you the amount of money I mentioned and if the rings run over that amount, I’ll have Helen send you the balance. I’m sending a few more clippings that I’ve enjoyed and hope they amuse you too. Well how are your folks? Don’t forget to give them my best regards, will you? How is Venna? Is she back from visiting her husband? If I don’t get any letters from you soon, I’m afraid that I [Page 4] shall run out of things to write so I’ve got my fingers crossed and hope to get some soon. Well, “Darling” I shall close for this time and write real soon. Yours forever, With Loads of Love, Joe {Signature accent mark} �[Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 172 MAY 10 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave. S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-08 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-08 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 8, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 8, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated May 10, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes while thinking of her on a lovely day in England, sharing the news of his sister Helen's excitement over their engagement and her willingness to help them purchase their wedding rings. He also writes of his most recent visit to the movie theater to see the film "Thunder Bird" and how going to the movies is a great pastime for him while he is so far away from Agnes. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Motion pictures--1940-1950 Weddings--Planning Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/c5cd45f2a2213a07cbcf4d5b75e6850a.pdf b85d1f528dc36f56eab621f014b1b6e7 PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/471d7748285dc181568bdb9dcec74a24.pdf 86b31be41b9fd1ec3aafbe8a82d6b156 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-07] [Page 1] England May 7, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Rec’d your two letters dated April 25th and 28th. It has made me very happy “Darling” to hear that you accepted my proposal. It didn’t take them very long to reach me, either, and I was surprised to hear my letters reached you in so little a time. You’re [sic] folks are swell, “Darling,” and there is none better. I couldn’t half express my appreciation either and they’re tops. I love you as much as always “Sweets” and just longing for the day when we can be together and what a grand day it will be. I hope that I can make you as happy as I want you to be and live an enjoyable life together no matter what we [Page 2] have to face in our future. I was very much pleased too that you want a plain wedding ring. To me, they look much nicer. We have so much to plan together that I don’t know how to begin. I’d much rather be there to plan everything with you but it may be much easier for us if we started now and polish it off carefully when I get back. Don’t you think so? It’s swell, to be engaged to you “Darling” and I wish I could prove it right now. The more I write of our engagement and future plans, everything tingles inside making me wish I could squeeze you with all of my might. I won’t be that mean for I may break more than one rib. Ha! Ha! [Page 3] I shall be very patient with you “Darling” and when we get used to each other’s ways, nothing will stand in our way to be happy and contented. My ring size is eleven (11) and believe me “Sweets” I shall always remember it, because it’s from a swell girl like you. What kind of a wedding would you like to have? This will be one of our important plans to figure out now. Don’t you think so? We can’t plan the exact day of the wedding, as yet, till I return but if you have an idea let me know. I got a V-mail from Helen also and she’s still very anxious to meet you. I’m going to tell her to send you the money for the rings. I know my folks will approve of our engagement for they always mention something of you in their letters. So you needn’t worry about [Page 4] that “Sweets.” Ollie was down there with his girl-friend. [sic] By the way they write, they had a swell time together. I only wish that I could be with you too “Darling” and they’re lucky! I went to the church services today and of all people I saw Roy. I told him that we were engaged but he didn’t believe it. I told him of what you wrote and he said that he told Carolyn to tell them what you had written to me. Beats me why they want it to go out that way. I’m going over for his wedding picture this afternoon and will send it to you. Will close for this time and don’t forget to �give my best regards to your mother and Dad. Will send a request for the cookies tomorrow when I write. Yours forever, With Loads of hugs and kisses {symbols} Joe {Signature accent mark} P.S. Write real soon, won’t you? [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 172 MAY 8 1944 A.P.O. U.S. POSTAGE 6¢ VIA AIR MAIL Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave. S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-07 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-07 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 7, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 7, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated May 8, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes with great excitement after receiving her letter accepting his engagement proposal, dreaming of their future wedding and life together. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Weddings--Planning Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/c6de3df58e95801c79ea3090739d81e7.pdf b4cf3282c18432a701334711421c32ba PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/6dfba9df5c7dd417ccf9f1b74b254d7e.pdf 62d415f75503bc1b3376cd68b50016f4 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-04] [Page 1] England May 4, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Thought of you all day today which isn’t unusual and thought, I’d write to the best girl I have back in the States. Well “Darling,” have you been thinking of us? If you didn’t, you’re still a meanie? Ha! Ha! I still miss you as much as ever, someday we’ll be together and then I shall be able to tell you all about it. I’m just in the mood to be a tease and if I were there now, I’d put all of my threats to good use. Ha! Ha! I got a letter from Ollie’s girlfriend today. She writes interesting letters, too, even if I haven’t met her personally. She also states that she would like to meet you too. Hope she will someday. Ollie sent her [Page 2] some flowers for Easter and I’ll wring his neck if he forgot to send you the ones I told him too. I’m still waiting patiently for your answer of getting engaged and the one from your folks. I’m very happy and contented just to write and ask to be engaged but would be, more so, if I were there. Hope it has made you as happy as it did me? I still haven’t seen Roy, so I don’t know how he is. Seems to me that he ought to look me up once in a while. Don’t you? I guess my folks are pretty well settled in our new home and hope they will remember to write. How are your folks? Don’t forget to mention that I asked about them, will you? Has Elaine answered my letter? [Page 3] If she did, I haven’t received it as yet. Have you heard from Helen lately? Hope you did. Have you had any luck in finding another pen to send me? I know they’re hard to get, so, don’t feel bad, if you can’t find one. [sic] I love you as much as ever and more everyday “Sweets.” If I stay away much longer, I’m liable to bust with all of it I have stored up, being away from you. That’s bad, ain’t it. Ha! Ha! How is Venna these days? Did she get back to Grand Rapids? I sure do wish you could visit me like she did with her husband. It will be swell though if you could when I’m around there again. I just keep marking the months away over here and they seem like years since I saw you last. What a happy day it will be when [Page 4] we shall be together again. It’s something I look forward to always. We’ll have to be patient though, won’t we? Sometimes I get disgusted and peeved but when I do that, I take out all your pictures and look at them. They really are a big morale builder, for me too. Well “Darling,” I will close for this time with [all] of my love to you. Yours always, With Plenty of ( )’s & x’s �Joe {Signature accent mark} P.S. May God bless you and keep you safe for me. [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 172 MAY 6 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-05-04 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-05-04 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, May 4, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated May 4, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated May 6, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes as he continues to wait patiently for Agnes' answer to his engagement proposal, explaining how much he misses her and how each month that passes by feels like another year they have spent apart from one another. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/030dc5528760601e7278f1df9b8fffbe.pdf d6d3048fbf65d5316e7614f0ad458e7b PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/dd1409a56f07db9d9a844f5efc03aa23.pdf 2ed970e283258122dcae346bafebc135 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-30] [Page 1] England April 30, 1944. Hello “Sugar,” Just got though writing a letter to my mother. Her birthday is May 2nd and I sure didn’t want her to think I had forgotten her. She’s swell and all of the cards in the world wouldn’t express her, as much as I think of her. I told her that I intended to be engaged “Darling.” Is that alright with you, even if I haven’t heard from you? I’m not taking it for granted “Darling” even though you may want to waite [sic] but it’s a good subject to write about, especially when it concerns a swell girl like you. Well, “Sugar” did you have a nice day today? What were you thinking of? About us? I sure did and my love for you grows every minute, with tiny bells [Page 2] tingling everywhere inside of me. I miss you, so much “Sweets,” that I keep hoping and longing for the day when we shall see each other again. The longer I stay away, will only make me think of you more with thoughts of our happiness when we can be together for good. I wrote you a four page letter yesterday too. Don’t you think I’m getting very ambitious all of a sudden? Ha! Ha! Gee!! From day to day, I anxiously await for your letters to arrive. They mean so much to me “Darling” and someday I’ll be able to show you how much I have enjoyed them and you. Believe me young lady, I shall retire from writing and put all of my thoughts to good use making you as happy as I want you to be. Went to [Page 3] church today as usual and what a lovely day it was? I couldn’t help but wish that you were here to tell you, that I’m very much in love with a grand girl such as you. I’m very happy and contented about it too because you keep going deeper and deeper way down in. You mean all of my future happiness “Darling” even though I’m not perfect and hope that we can adjust our likes and dislikes and enjoy a good future, of living and make our dreams come true. I also went to the show this afternoon and saw the picture “They Met in Bombay” with “Clark Gable” and “Rosiland Russell.” It was pretty good. Did you see it? I saw another one [Page 4] but don’t remember the name of it. George Murphy and Joan Blondell played in it. By the way “Sweets” will I be able to button up that new dress you have? If I don’t I’ll be a meanie and unbutton it if you wear it when I get there. Ha! Ha! If it makes you look beautiful “Sweets” it will suit me to a T. Well young lady, I shall close for this time with all of the hugs and kisses, I could give you for being away so long. Write soon “Precious” and make the mailman cuss at the weight of your mail. Ha! Ha! �“Yours forever,” With Loads of Love Joe {Signature accent mark} {Drawing of multiple “hug” and “kiss” symbols with the words “Cheap, ain’t I.”} [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 MAY 2 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-30 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-30 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 30, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 30, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated May 2, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes after writing to his mother, whose birthday is a few days away, and shares the news of his engagement proposal to Agnes. Joe also writes of the recent movie he had seen called "They Met in Bombay" starring Clark Gable and Rosiland Russell. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Motion pictures--1940-1950 Gable, Clark, 1901-1960 Russell, Rosalind Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/635bd95b271f9b89b3c61c6ed3039c5f.pdf 1b523a69c730e4f506b737ae9f89a5cc PDF Text Text ���� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/d7dd9c1dbe5e18785fe0246b3485eea8.pdf 09569349db3f5d971ff125e8938e21e1 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-29] [Page 1] England April 29, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Just came back from seeing two good pictures and on my way back I kept hoping to get a letter from you. Well, “Sweets” I did. I got two dated April 12th and 17th. It sure was swell hearing from you again “Darling” for I’ve been thinking of you all day. Gee!! Sometimes I’m so lonesome for you that I don’t know what to do? The two pictures I saw were “North Star” and “Lost Angel”. The first one was a sad picture and the other one was about a little girl. Did you see them? Well, “Darling,” I love you as much as ever and it gets so lonesome at [Page 2] times when I think that I can’t be with you. I’m still longing for the day when I shall be with you again and keep hoping & praying that it will be soon. I’m just in the mood tonite [sic] to tease you and how I wish I could chew your ears a little and fuss with your curls. It would suit me just fine but I wouldn’t be too selfish and let you squeeze me as hard as you say you will. I don’t I know what I’d do if you got sick and couldn’t write. I’d probably worry myself to death, I think. That picture I sent of the girl reminded me so much of you “Darling” that I just had to send it. You needn’t worry about her legs “Sweets” for yours are just good and better to me. [Page 3] There’s only one girl I love and that is you, “Darling.” No other will ever come up to your standards with me. Anyway, I haven’t time for anyone else, but you. I’m still waiting for that letter of yours giving me the answer, to what I asked. I hated to write and ask you but I thought it may be the best thing. I’ve re-read your letters three times already and it will be more till I hear from you again. I’ve enjoyed your kisses immensely, too, and when I bring them to my lips everything starts to tingle inside. I was sorry to hear that your dad has injured a finger and hope it is better. Don’t forget to give your folks my best regards and a hello. It will be swell if you can send me [Page 4] another picture of yourself sweets and here’s hoping you do. After all young lady, you’re the best pin-up girl, that I have and want. [sic] Flattering ain’t I? Well it’s true, believe it or not. I think of you and I always “Sweets” and someday we shall piece them all together and live in happiness. Shall close for this time “Sweets,” with all my love to the best girl in the world. Would it be asking too much I were to ask for a big hug? Well what are you waiting for? Ha! Ha! Yours forever, With Loads of ( )’s & x’s �Joe {Signature accent mark} PS. Sending Sad Sack again. Do you enjoy them? � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-29 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-29 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 29, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 29, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes of his excitement in receiving two letters from Agnes, re-reading them over and over again as he awaits her response to his proposal. Joe also writes of the recent movies he had seen including "North Star" and "Lost Angel." Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Motion pictures--1940-1950 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/5dd850c341abc9e50fd88027697a9766.pdf e563349f3c3d1e3250ac9b309b7e5d4a PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/555fabe2ca0f08b4ed64cb977e37618b.pdf cc70dfeceed869eb141e7d98775a4df8 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-27] [Page 1] England April 27, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Haven’t heard from you in a week except for a V-mail you sent and hope my letters are reaching you, better than when mine get to me. Anyway “Sweets,” I patiently waite [sic] for them and enjoy them more. I got a V-mail from Helen today stating that she got a letter from you. Everything is fine with them. Thought of you oodles and oodles since I wrote to you Sunday and love you more than ever. The countryside is really beautiful with all of the flowers and blossoms so I can’t help but think of you all of the time “Darling.” Wish you were here to enjoy all of [Page 2] what I see? [sic] I don’t think you’d see much because I’d hold you so tight, that you’d be worried of whether I’d ever let up or not. Ha! Ha! I could chew at your ears right now just to be a big tease. Ain’t I awful? Well “Darling,” did you get that letter of April 14th? What is your opinion of it? If you are as excited as I am that is something, Eh!? Ha! Ha! Wish I could get your answer to that letter real quick, just for our sake, don’t you? I shan’t rest till I do and at that I’m trying to rush that letter much faster than it will get here. Ha! Ha! Terrible isn’t it? You’re to blame though “Sweets” and a real meanie because I shan’t get even till I get back. Then young lady [Page 3] you’ll never get any rest. If you don’t believe it, just waite [sic] and see. Ha! Ha! Wish I could see you in that new dress you mentioned and it’s a big disappointment being so far away. I haven’t had any civilian clothes on in so long that it may scare me someday when I do get to wear them. Ha! Ha! Still haven’t seen Roy, so, I don’t know much about him at present. I did intend to go to the movies tonite [sic] but felt quite tired so I decided not to go. Monday nite [sic], I went and saw “Dangerous Blondes” & “Headline News”. They weren’t so hot either. How is Venna and your folks? Don’t forget to give them my regards, will you. [Page 4] Well, I managed to make the fourth page which is very unusual for me. Ha! Ha! Sometimes it is very hard to write, when one doesn’t get a letter isn’t it so? Will close for this time Sugar with all my love to a swell girl like you. Write real soon won’t you? Yours forever, With Loads of ( )’s & x’s Joe {Signature accent mark} �PS. Do you think you can find another fountain pen for me? If you can’t, don’t feel bad about it will you? [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} PASSED BY BASE 1081 US ARMY EXAMINER Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 28 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-27 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-27 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 27, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 27, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 28, 1944. In the letter, Joe describes how he thinks of Agnes constantly with the springtime beauty of the English countryside and eagerly awaits her response to his engagement proposal. Joe also writes of the recent movies he had seen including "Dangerous Blondes" and "Headline News." Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Motion pictures--1940-1950 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/d78600f329cc3f83bd47a1f2f080558a.pdf b9b6e2a27b5b90b5623bc168a745ab4a PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/e2c489d74eb0d4930bda82b1e8b56d16.pdf 98d65d253faad12a93de5ee685e52d5b PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-23] [Page 1] England April 23, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Here it is Sunday again and what a lovely day? Went to church as usual this morning and wished that you could have been here to go with me. Have thought of you quite a lot today, “Sweets” and I’ll just have to spend it with you since you keep wiggling deep down in. Aren’t you ever going to stop just a tiny bit so I can rest. Well, meanie I shall get even. Ha! Ha! Got one of your letters last nite [sic] dated April 2nd although I got more recent ones, it was grand to hear from you again. I sure do wish that I could pull at your curls and not only that but to squeeze you with all my might. It would please me very [Page 2] much right now if I could see your hair and having it the way I like to see you with it. It makes you real pretty and all my thoughts rush through me and then I could hold you ever so tight. Every morning I kiss your tender lips and say “Good morning Darling” and at nite [sic]when I go to bed I look at your picture and say “Pleasant dreams Sweets.” See!! What [text strikethrough] you’ve done to me? But I like it, because it’s from the girl I love and the one I shall marry someday. I anxiously wait for the day when we shall be together because we have so much to plan and do. Our future will be happiness with our love never growing old. Don’t you think so? I shall always be good for you [Page 3] wherever I maybe [sic] and no other girl will ever take your place. I shall keep that picture “Tender Comrade” in mind and see it when it comes around. I forgot to mention in my letter yesterday that I also got some pictures of Ollie and his girlfriend. They are really nice. Sometimes I often wish that I could steal in your room while you were sleeping and just chew on your ear till you woke up. When you do, the first thing I’d do would be to hold you tight and bite your nose. Gee!! That would be swell and more so because you couldn’t move. Ha! Ha! What do you think of that? Awful ain’t I? I saw the picture “Thank Your Lucky Stars” but it wasn’t as good as I thought it would be. Roy sure does hide himself for I haven’t seen him [Page 4] in a long while. Hope he is happy and wish him luck. I’m sending you another clipping of “Sad Sack”, do you like them? Well young lady, what have you been doing today? Not sleeping again I hope and thinking about us. Aren’t you ever going to tell me some of your secrets? Have you taken any recent pictures of yourself lately? No matter how many you will send, I’ll always ask for more. I’m almost out of stationary again and will send you a request for more. Well “Darling” I shall close again hoping to hear from you. �Yours Always, With Lots of Love & Kisses Joe {Signature accent mark} {Drawing of hug symbols and the words “Me” and “You” with arrows pointing to the hugs} [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 26 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-23 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-23 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 23, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 23, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 26, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes on a lovely Sunday, wishing they could attend the morning church service together and sharing how he starts and ends every day looking at her picture while saying "Good morning, Darling" and "Pleasant dreams, Sweets." Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Motion pictures--1940-1950 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/9a62b586a6c5faff6ae62d12ce9981ba.pdf 9306a7b8232aeeb8e5794838a544697c PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/6575b6c1d9a6a55af361c653f7c04bf9.pdf b2a798bff4e9748af9d3bf9c99a9df5e PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-22] [Page 1] England April 22, 1944. Hello “Darling,” It’s a beautiful day out and a good one to go for a stroll. Would you care to go with me? You shall in my thoughts and I always keep saying, I love you so you will be able to hear it. I still miss you “Darling” and just can’t wait till I shall be able to hold you and squeeze you again. I always say, Gee!! you’re a lucky guy Joe, to have a swell girl like Agnes back home waiting for you. When I think of you “Darling” everything seems to tingle inside of me and then I just wish that I could chew your ears or knip [sic] your nose. I like to daydream about us, too, and I’m anxiously [Page 2] waiting to hear from you and your folks. What for, well I shan’t tell? Ha! Ha! Believe it or not “Darling” I got a letter from Ollie. Boy, I nearly fell over from the shock. He’s engaged to Janice and has been since Nove. [November]. That was another surprise, too. Well “Darling” if you should except [accept] my proposal, he’ll be the same way. I’m very excited and contended but it would have been more so if I were there to say, “Darling, would you marry me?” I’ll bet you are as excited as I am about the whole thing, aren’t you? Did you get the flowers I sent to you for Easter? I hope you did? [sic] I got your V-Mail dated the 13th of April but you didn’t mention getting them. I also am depressed and blue when I don’t hear from [Page 3] you and keeping saying, hope I get a letter from Agnes today. I often worry about you being sick and unable to write but when I get your letters, I’m relieved of such a burden and awful thought. My folks are living in the other house and the address is 1693 Clairmont St. Ollie said that he will pay you a visit just as soon as he has a little time off. Hope [text strikethrough] he has already? My folks still keep writing about you and how nice you are. I think so too and maybe more. What do you think? Just wait till I get back young lady and I’ll be able to prove my only thoughts? [sic] Did Elaine get my letter as yet? [Page 4] How’s Gloria, ain’t she ever going to answer that letter of mine? Most of all, I’m very pleased to get your swell letters and kisses, so I’m very contented, whether she writes or not. Well, “Darling” I will close for this time and give my best regards to your folks. Yours Always, With Load of ( )’s & x’s Joe �{Signature accent mark} P.S. Guess, I’ll go to the show and see “Sahara” and Thank Your Lucky Stars. Did you see them? Today is Ollie’s birthday. He’s lucky to spend it at home. [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 22 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-22 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-22 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 22, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 22, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 22, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes as he anxiously awaits Agnes and her parents' response to his proposal, daydreaming about their future together and sharing the news of his brother Ollie's engagement. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/c8915bee8ea01e404e3884574373a2d4.pdf 99e09db8bd4a9a7aeee5134b42d355b2 PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/98d9aa48cd7dd67a8c15d6d0d2efe5b8.pdf 3e07df6046e66ea6e27066ec578626fc PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-20] [Page 1] England April 20, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Rec’d two of your letters dated April 7th & 10th and was very pleased to hear from you. Was glad to hear you enjoyed yourself visiting your cousin. Gee!! “Sweets,” I sure would like to see your Easter outfit and dress, maybe I will someday? I still miss you as much as ever “Darling” and you are always in my thoughts. I guess, I am just about as anxious of seeing you, as you are me. We don’t know when that will be, but it’s going to be a grand day for us, isn’t it? I love you as much as ever [Page 2] “Darling” and never get tired of looking at your pictures. I sure would like to bite your ears right now and squeeze you ever so much, just for my being away so long and missing all of your hugs and kisses. See! What you’ve done to me young lady? No, I shan’t be selfish in the things I’m going to do and I guess we won’t have much rest either. It will be worth it though, won’t it? Well, “Darling,” I just can’t waite [sic] for your answer to my proposal and I still wish that I was there to ask you about getting engaged. I just couldn’t waite [sic] any longer, though, so I decided [Page 3] to ask. If your folks do give their consent, it’s going to be grand to be engaged to a swell girl like you. If you are in doubt just wait till I get back and I’ll prove it. Your letters and kisses mean so much to me and I can’t help thinking of how much I love you and missed you. This war may keep us apart but my thoughts are always bringing you to me. At times, I just wish I could take you out of the imaginary picture before me and squeeze you with all my might. Someday I shall be able to do that and I shan’t ever let up because I’ve always been yearning to be with you [Page 4] again. I’m very pleased to hear that you’re not going to cut your hair. To me, you look very beautiful, having it that way. You needn’t worry about some other girl over here “Sweets” because there isn’t any that could be as good as you. At that, I don’t have time for any because I have you with me wherever I go. Well “Darling” I shall close hoping to hear from you real soon. How are your folks? Don’t forget to give them my best regards? Went down to visit Roy but he wasn’t around. Don’t know when I shall bump into him again. Yours forever, With “Loads of Love & Kisses” Joe �{Signature accent mark} P.S. Don’t forget to send some more pictures? [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 25 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-20 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-20 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 20, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 20, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 25, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes while awaiting the answer to his proposal and looks forward to the grand day when they are able to see each other once again. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/01cff356e44f5b614a969ea7460ea3ab.pdf 49055d66aa76c8673f0ef1f441fb36e2 PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/cb6e34c9ba34f6a4f259710e79e2a3e7.pdf aceb0ee09d5299112a0adc1cf8497376 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-16] [Page 1] England April 16, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Shall write a few lines before going to church this morning and finish it when I get back. Thought of you all day yesterday sweets and wished ever so much to have you here with me. I’m still yearning to be with you again and love you more and more each day. I hope you will receive my letter of April 14th before you get this one. I just couldn’t keep my secret any longer and hope you will accept my proposal of getting engaged. Of course, it will have to be on the decision of your mother and father. If they do give their [Page 2] consent, we can plan together all things that will agree to both of us. I hated to propose through a letter “Darling” but being so far away, I thought it would be best. I would of [sic] liked to be there to ask you “Sweets” and I’ll do it anyway when I return. I know that we shall be happy and contented in the future to come. In life people have many disappointments but as long as we face them and make them crumble, we can enjoy all of the happiness, there is, in our future. [sic] The only big thing is to adjust our ways to each other and have faith in each other. When this is done nothing shall keep us from being happy. Don’t [Page 3] you think so? I always did want a nice wedding, not too big and no doubt you have thought of the same thing. It has made me very happy to propose to you “Darling” knowing that someday we shall share our lives together. I just got back from church and I heard a very good sermon. While I [was] walking along I thought and wished that you could be here to go with me. Yesterday I saw the picture “Lassie Come Home” and another one “Secret Enemies.” After having a bite to eat I went to another show and saw ‘Candlelight in Algeirs [Algeria]” and “A Ghost and a Guest.” They were swell pictures. The one of Algiers was of the preparations [Page 4] for the invasion of North Africa. It was a great interest to me and what a great success the whole plans were and that it was liberated of Nazism. Well, “Darling” I shall close hoping to hear from you real soon. Yours forever, With Loads of Love & Kisses Joe {Signature accent mark} �P.S. Give my regards to your folks. Excuse the writing. It’s terrible!! [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 19 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-16 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-16 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 16, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 16, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 19, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes in great anticipation as he awaits her response regarding their engagement, dreaming of their future wedding and the life they will build together. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Motion pictures--1940-1950 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/739fcfe22f60f62116c77dd86592a465.pdf d697d3dad91d120e336e700796290fdc PDF Text Text ���� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/09e242370106e20187c4b92add8b7638.pdf fce909a863dac0d3d242afdd4b3b949a PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-14] [Page 1] England April 14, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Got two of your letters today dated March 24th & 28th and a letter from your mother. It sure was swell to hear from the both of you. I’m fine as usual “Sweets,” and hope you are the same. I still miss you and love you as much as ever “Darling” and can hardly waite [sic] to be with you again. I’ve answered your mother’s letter already and asked for their consent to get engaged. I just couldn’t keep it any longer and waiting doesn’t help me any. It will be grand to get engaged to you “Darling,” although I did want to be there but waiting to get back is too much to do. Don’t you think so? We can plan every [Page 2] thing when I return though can’t we? As I told your mother, I don’t intend to get married while being in the Army. Of course, “Sweets” I want your opinion too and we can plan everything as time goes along. I shall though, waite for your mother’s and father’s decisions and what they think, will be right? If they do give their consent here is what I’m going to do? [sic] I’m going to have Helen send you a hundred and fifty dollars to get an engagement ring and a wedding ring. You may think it will be a lot but it will be worthwhile to get good ones. I’d like the wedding ring to be plain for if there are small diamonds in it, they may fall out when you least expect them to. I’m not trying to discourage you on [Page 3] the one you like and I shall let you decide. I don’t want you to be hasty in any of your decisions and really piece them together. I’m really excited as much as you are “Sweets” and who wouldn’t be? I repeat, that I wish I were there to tell you all I have written and will someday if you want me to. I always did want a wedding ring that matched the ones of the girl I marry, with her buying it from her own earnings. In that way, I always shall cherish it and appreciate it, more, than anyone will ever know. I may be asking for a lot but it will be something I shall never forget. This is only my opinion and when we can plan all of this together everything will be to our liking. I don’t intend to come to conclusions until I hear of what your folks think and [Page 4] I shall not be discouraged if they want us to waite [sic] and as time goes on, let them know of our plans. They shall be very helpful with their suggestions of our plans. Don’t you think so? I shall tell Helen to waite till she hears from you whether to send you the money to get the rings or not. I will not tell anyone else till I hear from you and your folks. Well “Darling” I shall close being excited, as we are and hope to hear from you real soon. �Yours forever With Loads of Love & Kisses, Joe {Signature accent mark} P.S. Gave away one of my biggest secrets didn’t it? Helen has my bank book and is taking care of my money for me. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-14 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-14 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 14, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 14, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes sharing the heartfelt news that he wrote to her mother asking for Agnes' hand in marriage, as he is unable to keep his secret from her any longer. He writes with great excitement over planning their future together, awaiting her parents' decision and Agnes' response in the days ahead. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/c405aedc31de334a697f6fa6962be373.pdf c2717077ccd37e4d02129bb13859f9be PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/11501d8bc06a511c41eda867aea8384a.pdf 3ed3e5100a39a5538d63c96f8be4f560 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-11] [Page 1] England April 11, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Rec’d two of your letters last nite [sic] dated March 18th and 31st. It was swell to hear from you again. I’m fine as usual and love you as much as ever. Miss you, too and plenty. I’d be very happy and contented, “Darling” if you were here to squeeze me, like you said you would. Why, don’t you? I’ve enjoyed your kisses very much, “Sweets” and their [sic] swell, especially when they come from you. I sure do remember the last time I kissed you and I miss them very much now. You’re to blame young lady and just waite [sic] till I get back. I’ll get even then. Ha! Ha! [Page 2] As long as you daydream of us, “Darling,” I’m well pleased and I do the same often. It’s grand to think of it, isn’t it “Sweets.” I could squeeze you ever so much right now and bite your ears. That!! would be swell! [sic] Ha! Ha! Did you visit my folks or did some of them visit you? I hope they visited you? My! I’m disappointed in you for falling to sleep holding my picture. Next time you do that, “Sweets,” I’m going to jump right out of the picture and knip [sic] your nose. I’ll even jump in and out of your dreams, just to be mean and haunt you. What do you think of that? Worried?!!! Ha! Ha! You will be! Have you tried to make some cookies for me yet? You haven’t, well young lady, you’d better get busy and [Page 3] make some. So, Gloria’s going to work in the store? I see where I’ll apply for another secretary job and take care of all the money she makes. I quit being your secretary because you never sent me anything to balance the monthly budget. Ha! Ha! Has your mother written to me lately? If she hasn’t, I’m still boycotting her. Is Elaine going to answer my letter? Well, tell her to hurry up and write. How’s your dad these days? Don’t forget to tell him that I was asking about him, will you? Today is a very nice day, wish you were here to spend it with me. It wouldn’t cost you much, except for a broken rib, from me squeezing you. Ha! Ha! Would it be worth it? Did you wear your Easter Suit? This Sunday “Sweets,” I want you to [Page 4] wear it because I’m going to take you for a stroll. That’s going to be swell, then I will be able to see it. My thoughts are always of you “Darling” and I can hardly waite [sic] for the day we shall see each other again. Well, I shall have to close hoping to hear from you soon. Yours forever, With Loads of Love & Kisses Joe �{Signature accent mark} PS. Getting back to my usual short letters, ain’t I? Awful isn’t? Ha! Ha! Sending another clipping of “Sad Sack.” [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 11 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-11 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-11 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 11, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 11, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 11, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes expressing his love for her and inquiring about whether she gathered with his family for Easter back home in Michigan. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/80e6c8af1f11f61e384e7e9993c75bf1.pdf c8d8b8713464f20de3c26528013a884b PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/343ea80ef12724ee69b21ab41a533d91.pdf 5da51ed3491fbb2224e1a63a46cf57ca PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-09] [Page 1] England April 9, 1944. “Hello Darling,” Today is Easter Sunday and what a swell day it is. I went to church this morning and wished that you could have been here to go with me. I heard a good sermon and also took communion. It’s going to be grand when you and I can go to church again together, won’t it “sweets?” My thoughts are of you always, wondering of what you are doing and thinking. I love you, as much as ever, “Darling” and if I didn’t, I couldn’t write it. Yesterday, I went to the movies and saw a double feature. One [Page 2] was ‘Hostages’ with “Louise Rainer” and the other “Steel Against the Sky” with Lloyd Nolan and Alexis Smith. They were pretty good. Did you see them? Yesterday, I got a long and interesting letter from Ollies girlfriend. She’s very nice by the way she writes. I was kinda hoping that I’d get a letter from you but didn’t. I miss you very much “Darling” and no other girl shall ever take your place. I want you to believe me even though at times, you may be discouraged and depressed. When I get that way, I repeat that I take out your pictures and think of you and I being happy when we shall be together again. It makes no difference of how long it will be before I will return for you [Page 3] are always with me wherever I go. I wish I could whisper in your ear how much I love you, instead of writing it. Someday I will and we shall forget about the days we haven’t spent together. I also miss your kisses, biting your ears and pulling your curls, not to be mean or tease but for my longing to [be] with you to feel your touch and many other things, too numerous to mention. Sometimes, it seems that I want to rush the days so that I can return and be with you but it shall be worth while to wait, for that day to come, for I’m still fortunate to have a swell girl, like you back home. Did Elaine get my letter I wrote to her? How is the rest of the [Page 4] family? Don’t forget to give them my regards and for you “Darling,” all of my love. Will close for this time and write real soon, and as often as you can. May God’s blessing be upon you and keep you, safe, for me. Yours forever, With Loads of Hugs & Kisses Joe {Signature accent mark} �PS. My writing is getting worse, guess I’ll have to go to school again! Ha! Ha! [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 12 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-09 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-09 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 9, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 9, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 12, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes on Easter Sunday after attending the church service that morning and looks forward to the day when they can go to church together once again. He also writes of the recent double feature films he saw in town and how Agnes is always with him in spirit. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Easter Church services Motion pictures--1940-1950 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/b1c8969137445203a9e12539fc91a25f.pdf 004b4ea1682bcae17e3e89664eb0c040 PDF Text Text �������� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/fef7d322826c86a60fde81663d8901bd.pdf b29dd3f288d41d157f16797acb16af67 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-06] [Page 1] England April 6, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Got two more of your letters dated Mar. 14th & 16th and was very pleased with them. I still miss you and love you as much as ever and still waiting for the day when we shall be together. You bet, I’m pleased that my folks like you although if they didn’t I’d love you always. But it’s a lot better when they do. Don’t you think so? Gee!! How I wish that I were with you and hold you in my arms again. It would please me very much, to bite your ears and squeeze you, like I used to? [sic] It’s been so long and I shall not let you go. See!! What you are in for, “Darling”? I’m glad to hear you liked the clippings I [Page 2] sent “Sweets” and hope you enjoy them as much as I do? I also hope to have two of the same things you wrote about because I’m very fond of them. Anyway, I’m depending on it, especially when we shall have so much to talk over when I return. I’d like to hurry the days but can’t so we’ll have to waite [sic] won’t we? I’m always thinking of you and I which is grand, don’t you think? It takes two to make a bargain, so let us make a date and plan this together. Oh! So you don’t make dates? Well if I were there to wiggle inside of you as much as you do in me, I wouldn’t persuade very long? Ha! Ha! So, I have my young lady peeved by calling her a meanie and I’m very very pleased. Wish I could tease [Page 3] you more and see you while you are that way. I’d be tickled. Ha! Ha! I don’t care if the whole world knows, I love you, for I do and it makes no difference to me as long as I have a swell girl, like you to love. When I close my eyes and think of you, you suddenly appear before me and I often wish I that I could reach out and bring you close to me. I’d knip [sic] your nose too if I did and just waite [sic] till I get back young lady. I shan’t be able to write it then but do it? What do you think of that? I plan to go to Holland, Mich. someday to see the place and all of the tulips they have there. Of course, I wouldn’t go alone because I’m going to take my girlfriend with me, so she can enjoy all of what I see. [Page 4] Is it a date? Now don’t forget it and leave that day open for me. I said just me and no 4 F’s. Ha! Ha! The kisses you send makes my blood pressure go up and when I bring them to my lips, I feel their freshness and all of your inspiring love for me. We shall be happy together some day, enjoy life and forget the darkened days of the past. I shan’t ever get bored to hear of your love for me so don’t ever think any other way about it young lady. We had a U.S.O. show here not so long ago and one of the singers sang, ‘You’ll Never Know.” While she was singing it, my mind raced �back to you across the sea, hoping that you heard it when I did. She also sang “Put Your Arms Around Me Honey.” Have you [Page 5] heard this song? I think it’s swell. I got along letter from home and one from Helen. It was good to hear from them again. Francis didn’t send me the new address, so I don’t know where to write. They are all fine. I still wish that I were there with you when you visit my folks. Someday I shall be? Did Ollie and Francis visit you as yet? I hope that they will get time off to do so. I’ve looked around for your Aunt’s address intending to write to them but haven’t found it as yet among some of my junk. I also got a few Easter cards which were very nice. I’m patiently waiting for yours and hope to get it soon. I haven’t seen Roy since I wrote about him last. He was [Page 6] supposed to come up and see me. Guess he is busy. I have not gotten his wedding picture as yet but will send it to you as soon as I get it. Well, “Darling” what have you been doing today? Have you been thinking of us? I do always. Don’t forget to write and tell me all about it? Will you? How is your mother and dad? Give them my regards and tell them I think of them often? Yes, I got Elaine’s letter and have read it several times. I suppose by now that she got mine. So, Carolyn got fired! I guess she’ll never get along with anyone. She’s got to “smarten up” if she intends to do so. I had figured that she was trying to discourage you about me and I’m glad to hear you didn’t listen to her. [Page 7] I suppose you and I got all of the blame for what happened but if I ever get any letters from them like you got, I’d have it printed in the paper along with my opinion. I did expect one and I’ll carry out what I have written to put them in their place. Well I have run out of brains except to say I love you, which loads of hugs and kisses form me to you. Yours Always, With Lots of Love Joe {Signature accent mark} P.S. Write real soon and don’t forget to take some more pictures? [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. �U. S. Army {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 13 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-06 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-06 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 6, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 6, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 13, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes with excitement after Agnes' letters from March had finally arrived and imagines going on a date to visit the tulips in Holland, Michigan with her one day. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Holland (Mich.) Music--1940-1950 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/bc9e6dd6bce9c4aa3e4552b8371e858c.pdf 604be029023401377f9bc745a115f43d PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/74542ecb0706072cc285a40fe71c8f3a.pdf 6fd3783a1bd91db46b8e80ad4f6da929 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-03] [Page 1] England April 3, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Got your lovely letter dated Mar. 21st and was very pleased to hear from you again. Have been thinking of you all day today and love you more each minute that slips by. I still miss you terribly and still waite [sic] for the day we shall be together again. I wrote you a nice long letter yesterday. Did you get it? I guess some of my letters to you got lost for you haven’t mentioned anything of the clippings I sent in your letters. Your letters are really swell and they make things tingle like little bells inside of me. I like your kisses too and bring them to my lips [Page 2] before I read your letters. When one of your letters don’t have an imprint in them I get very disappointed. I miss them too. When I bring them to my lips, I feel the warmth of your kisses and love for me. I also imagined that you are here and bite your ears or knip [sic] your nose. I kiss your picture each morning and at nite [sic] before going to bed. It makes me love you more and feel my nearness to you. You needn’t worry “Darling,” I’ll love you always and shall overlook our quarrels if we have any and live happy together. I’m very pleased to hear you are doing some cooking and its very encouraging to hear that you are doing your best. You bet it’s going [Page 3] to be swell when we can be alone and make our thoughts aloud. It’s going to be grand to plan so much together and live in happiness. I still say there isn’t a better girl in England than you and there never will be. All of my love and kisses are for you “Darling” and each day I’m away they keep adding up. No other girl will take them from you either because it’s grand to have a swell girl like you to love. Sending you one of my paper dolls, don’t you think it’s cute? The other is of me trying to write when I don’t hear from you. Ha! Ha! It sure is a relief to get a letter from you when I haven’t rec’d any in a long time. I always keep hoping that you aren’t ill and patiently waite [sic] for your letters. [Page 4] I also got a V-mail from Helen and she says that she hasn’t heard from you in a long while. Did you see the picture “Robin Hood.” It’s a swell picture. I saw it yesterday just after the little stroll I took. I took you with me too “Darling” in thoughts and we had a grand time together. Easter is this coming Sunday and how I wish that I could spend it with you. I’d also like to see your spring suit. Will close for this time “Darling” and remember that I shall love you always. Write real soon. Yours forever, �With Loads of ( )’s and x’s Joe {Signature accent mark} [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 7 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-03 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-03 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 3, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 3, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 7, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes after being pleased to receive her latest letter and writing her a long letter the day before. He continues to describe his appreciation for her lipstick imprints and his happiness as they make plans for the future. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Motion pictures--1940-1950 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/a6d47d404e1056dc7cbdae71ac4e3819.pdf 152f1ad541432752114286d83b6c2d5c PDF Text Text ��������� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/203935df0a67b3867db910f31f18aecb.pdf 57ce04dee2d74f15dd55b5e98ee0e422 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-02] [Page 1] England April 2, 1944. Hello Darling, Just got back from Church and how I wished that we could have gone together. Rec’d three of your letters a couple of days ago and was very pleased to get them. I did miss them and your kisses and hope both of our mail doesn’t get on a banana boat. Ha! Ha! I keep reading your letters over and over, which makes everything tingle inside of me. I look at your pictures and it is very tempting to try and bite your ears and mess your curls. Wish you were here “Darling” so I wouldn’t have to write about it. I love you very much “Darling,” miss you a plenty and [Page 2] my thoughts are always of you. When I return all of my writing will be put in use and squeeze you ever so much and tell you how much I have missed you. It will be swell, to be together again and talk over our future plans. Days that we have missed being together will be forgotten. My hopes, thoughts and wishes will never cease to be with you always. See!! What you have done to me young lady? So, you’re blaming me again for your cold. What an awful meanie you are but young lady, there will be a day that I shall get even? Ha! Ha! If I were there now, I’d knip that nose of yours just for a starter? [sic] Ha! Ha! I did it anyway on the picture. Did you feel it? I’m so pleased to hear my [Page 3] folks asked you down for Easter and hope you can visit them? I can’t be there but you can look at the pictures I have at home and think of me and you being together. I read in a paper not so long ago of a fellow who returned from the front and broke two ribs squeezing his mother so hard. Now if I were to squeeze you and my mother that hard I’d get credit for four ribs. Gee!! That’s going to be swell and then I could bring flowers and candy every day for the both of you. See!! What the both of you are in for? Ha! Ha! It’s misty out today and when I go for a stroll this afternoon, you’re going to be my sunshine. I take you with me everywhere whether you want to go or not and when I climb a hill [Page 4] and see all of the scenery below you are with me to enjoy all the things that mother nature makes and at times people don’t even notice. Sometimes, I hate to leave for everything in the countryside is so beautiful. Just think for a minute of being on a high hill looking down and far into the horizon. What do you see? The first thing that could catch your eye is the countryside filled with trees, patches of ground that look white, tan, and brown. From there you may gaze at the green trees, the vastness of grass, a twisting creek in the valley below, a winding road perhaps that brought you to the top of the hill you are on. Nothing seemed to be interesting as �you came up but when your gaze went in the direction you came, everything sprang to life. It’s so peaceful and quiet, no noise [Page 5] to interfere with your thoughts. You may see a town far off with tiny houses of different colors that were so large an hour or two ago. Your eyes then will shift to a big prominent building or a church that stands all alone and say Gee!! I didn’t know that building was so big? Only a short time ago mother nature wasn’t very interesting but you see it now and it’s all yours to look at from day to day. Time passes swiftly and you hate to leave, for everything was so nice, as you start on your way down the road the buildings and trees get bigger; they stand alone now but way up they were tiny and together. Coming into town wasn’t half as nice, as it was on the hill, for you heard a lot of noises, saw people running to and fro, the world seemed to be in one block crowded with hardly [Page 6] room to walk, your mind then wonders, to the different objects you picked out while on the hill, you seem to forget the people and everything about you. With a sudden jolt you awaken to see who bumped into who, an apology of “I’m sorry,” and then on your way, again toward home. Of course you’ll say I’m going up there again, it was so nice to get away from your daily work and the buildings that were so big. Well “Darling” I could go on but don’t you think one trip is enough for today? Ha! Ha! Gee!! I’m tired? Ha! Ha! I saw Roy last nite [sic] and gave him your regards. As yet I haven’t met his wife but I will when I meet him again. He didn’t have much to say, so I didn’t visit with him long. I got a letter and a package from Helen yesterday. Her cookies sure were good. Every time she sends me some I think of the first ones she ever baked and [Page 7] she wasn’t discouraged by the taste of her cookies now. Can you bake any for me? If you can, I’ll promise to send a request every two weeks. I like fat ones, thin ones, big ones, and small ones. What kind can you make? I don’t mean to be a tease and I’m really serious. After all I haven’t eaten any you made so don’t forget to get up a lot of courage and a little bit of confidence and make some. Will you? I also heard from my brother Johnny but as yet no word from home. I guess they are still busy with the moving. How is your mother and dad? Don’t forget to give them my regards and hello. Is Venna back from New Jersey? I suppose she hated to leave. Well I wouldn’t blame her. Give her a hello for me when you see [Page 8] her again. I must say, I did surprise myself by writing so much but it is always for a swell girl, like you, be they short or long of my thoughts and love for you. Will close “Darling” and write real soon. Yours forever, �With Loads of Hugs & Kisses Joe {Signature accent mark} [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o P.M. - New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 APR 5 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-04-02 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-04-02 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, April 2, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated April 2, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated April 5, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes discussing his family's upcoming Easter and his latest stroll around the countryside where he appreciated the beauty of Mother Nature and imagined being together with Agnes. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Easter Nature Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/9a636f905304b15134defce522354b7d.pdf ec3f193166e1f0c2a235b568878411e1 PDF Text Text ���� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/e7c83f47862bec0dd4579c5d59b9349d.pdf 6808616acc4487c5a34092b5a5d67c57 PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-03-27] [Page 1] England March 27, 1944. Hello “Precious,” Here I am again and still no letters from you. I miss them very much “Darling” and hope you are not ill? Thought of you all day today and love you more than I can write. I hope by now that you are getting all of my letters I have written. Easter is two weeks away and I sure wish that I were there to spend it with you. I’d take you for a nice stroll just to take in all of the beautiful things Mother Nature has made. This month is nearly ended and it will not be long till summer. [Page 2] I got two Easter V-mails today, one is from Ollie’s girlfriend and the other, a friend of mine. If I don’t hear from you soon, “Darling,” I don’t know what I’m going to do? I’ve done practically everything I could think of while [text strikethrough] {waiting} for your letters but it’s getting exhausted. I’m not giving up, though, at least not that easy. Well Sugar, what have you been doing today? Now young lady tell the truth, for I may read your mind? Ha! Ha! It better be of us or I’m liable to bite your ears in front of everybody. Do you want me to do that? I will anyhow just to be mean. How are your folks these fine days? Don’t forget to give them [Page 3] my regards and hello. Has your mother written to me yet? Wish she would? Has Richard been a good boy lately? He better be? [sic] Well “Sweets” I will close for I don’t know what to write since I haven’t heard from you. Yours forever, With Loads of Love & Kisses “Joe” {Signature accent mark} P.S. Write as often as you can “Sweets”? [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army �Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 MAR 29 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-03-27 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-03-27 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, March 27, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated March 27, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated March 29, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes while missing her and her letters, hoping that she is in good health and wishing he could spend the upcoming Easter with her. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Easter Nature Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/b8c2d0d0db824f1f8f84d55d720898b3.pdf ff98c5402d79a26f99b0f4f0d3907ba1 PDF Text Text ����� https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/ed1473269e51cf2a43f9909a9457c09e.pdf d3b538a4944a6221ea8a9412b8d5c7fc PDF Text Text [RHC-93_Olexa_1944-03-26] [Page 1] England March 26, 1944. Hello “Darling,” Today was a lovely day to go for a stroll, so I took you with me. Gee! I miss you terribly “Darling” and I could squeeze you ever so much if you were here. As I walked along I could hear the birds sing and saw a lot of trees full of blossoms. The flowers are peeping through and the countryside is turning a light green. Some people who went rushing by haven’t noticed it’s spring but I did. I was in no hurry to go anywhere and imagined you were walking with me. I had so much to [Page 2] talk about that I didn’t even finish them in my thoughts of you. I will love you always, “Darling” and patiently waite [sic] for the day I return. I always keep saying that there isn’t a better girl in England than I have back home. When I get back it will be a great inspiration filled with happiness and joy to be with you again. I shan’t ever let you go till I tell you of how much I love you and missed you. That’s going to be a grand day when we shall hold each other and our longing for each other has come to an end. We shan’t have any rest but it will be worth it. Don’t you think so? Sometimes I get so [Page 3] disgusted and blue and when I get that way, I read your old letters and look at your pictures. All heaviness disappears and you keep wiggling deeper and deeper inside of me. Then I’d say wish I could knip [sic] your nose and muss your curls? Today I asked you to go walking with me and this clipping shows what you did, but I took you with me anyhow? Ha! Ha! Later on we came to a pool and I asked you to go swimming, and when you felt the water you were stubborn and didn’t go in. What a meanie you are but young lady, I shall get even some day. Your March letters haven’t arrived yet but I’m still hoping to hear from you “Darling.” I miss them very much too. The only thing I got from you this month [Page 4] was the birthday card and your pictures. I know you have written and keep hoping you aren’t ill? When I don’t hear from you I always say well I will tomorrow. Saw Roy today and he’s coming along fine. I just missed meeting his wife by five minutes. I’m getting a small wedding picture from him and will send it to you when I get it. Will close for this time Darling with all my love and a big hug for you. Yours Always, With Loads of ( )’s & x’s �Joe {Signature accent mark} PS. If you don’t hurry and send me some more pictures, I may get another pin-up girl? You wouldn’t want me to do that would you? Ha! Ha! [Envelope front] S/Sgt. Joseph P. Olexa (12016893) Co. “L,” 26th Inf. A.P.O. - 1 c/o Postmaster, New York, N. Y. U. S. Army Free {Signature accent mark} {Postmark} U.S. ARMY POSTAL SERVICE 1 MAR 29 1944 A.P.O. Miss Agnes Van Der Weide 1913 Berkley Ave., S.W. Grand Rapids, 9 Mich. PASSED BY 20639 U.S. ARMY EXAMINER Lt. [?] � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joe Olexa letters Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Van Der Weide, Agnes Description An account of the resource Collection of letters between Joseph Olexa and Agnes Van Der Weide, dating from 1941 to 1946. Olexa fought in the U.S. Army 26th Infantry Division, Company "L", and eventually attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over the course of World War II, Olexa was engaged in North Africa, Sicily, France, Belgium, and Germany. He fought in the Invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Belgium, the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, and the Battle of the Bulge. While deployed abroad, Olexa maintained regular correspondence with Agnes Van Der Weide, a young woman he met through mutual friends. Agnes was the daughter of Benjamin and Minnie (Ter Meer) Van Der Weide. The Van Der Weide family lived in Jamestown, Michigan and Ashburnham, Massachusetts until moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1943. While the letters do not contain details relating to Olexa's military activities, due to heavy censorship of soldiers' correspondence by the U.S. Army, the letters do depict the daily activities of an infantry soldier and illustrate the blossoming romance between the two. Joseph and Agnes were married July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes's death in 1993. Joseph Olexa died December 3, 2000. They were survived by their son, Karl Olexa. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941/1946 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence (RHC-93)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93 Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-93_Olexa_1944-03-26 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Olexa, Joseph P. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944-03-26 Title A name given to the resource Letter from Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, March 26, 1944 Description An account of the resource Handwritten letter and envelope with transcript by Joe Olexa to Agnes Van Der Weide, dated March 26, 1944. The envelope is sent from Co. L, 26th Infantry A.P.O.-1, c/o Postmaster New York, New York, dated March 29, 1944. In the letter, Joe writes to Agnes from England and shares his appreciation of the natural beauty of spring after his stroll around town, including the bird songs and blossoming trees he witnessed in the countryside. Subject The topic of the resource United States. Army. Infantry Division, 26th World War, 1939-1945 Soldiers -- Michigan Correspondence Love letters Nature Spring Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/543">Joseph P. Olexa WWII memoir and correspondence, (RHC-93)</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant World War II Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives