Excerpts from Letters to Mom in italics.
23 November 1963
When I heard what happened I couldn't really comprehend. [The assassination of President Kennedy.] It was the closest I've been to crying in a long time. The people finally had another President whom they could trust, and I hope our feeling of security hasn't been too shattered by his trajedy [sic]. Thank God our system of government is so designed, that the loss of even so cherished a leader cannot destroy its progress. We're fortunate to have an able Vice-President; he needs and deserves out utmost confidence and support.
All the guys were gathering that evening at the EM Club for some kind of party. Fehr having arrived on the early side, was busy sampling the Parkbräu when AGC Al D'entremount arrived in civies with a blank, stunned look on his face. He uttered quietly, "Kennedy's been shot." He repeated it and Fehr thought to himself that the Chief was referring to one young airman in the shop, "Well, that really doesn't surprise me, but how did it happen, how did Airman Kennedy get a gun and is he gonna be OK?" Finally Chief says, "No, PRESIDENT Kennedy has been shot!"The party atmosphere abruptly ended as the word spread in seconds that evening. They all wanted to know more news. Against his better judgement, AG2 Fehr went downtown to see what was being reported on German TV. He should have stayed close to the barracks in case an alert was called. It was. No one knew who was responsible or any details. Was it a Commie plot? Would it be followed up by any attacks? German TV played somber, funereal music with a blackened screen and periodic updates. People were crying and rubbing their eyes. Fehr decided to get his ass back up the Kreuzberg to the Kaserne and check in at the office to see if there were any more news through official channels.
Yes, I'm feeling OK and am not homesick, but I'm looking forward to coming home, too. I received the hair crème and deodorant, and in the last letter a "Thanksgiving Dinner." [Probably cash for a dinner.] Dankeschön.
21 December 1963
Tonight I'm babysitting at Willford's (where I've eaten Thanksgiving dinner and many other meals) and have just put the two girls to bed. I got the package and also a letter with a pleasant surprise too, vielen Dank! Please also thank Bobby and Pa for the money and card for me. I thought you'd like to know what I bought with the money - a pair of black suede chukka boots. They're quarter high shoes that will be warm in winter, and good for running around in and for going on Sunday afternoon walks.
When is Sondra getting married? Sure, if I'm in the country or anywhere in the area I'd be glad "to give her away." Did that sound right? I think the groom should choose the best man. Don't you?
I've been invited out by several people for Christmas dinner, and the lucky couple to ask first was Chuck Baker and his German wife. All the relatives (German) will be there, so I'll get to exercise my Deutsch.