Thursday, May 13, 2010

Finding Love Amongst War

March 3rd 1941,

My name is Shirley Reynolds, I am 21 years old and I live in Britain. I live with my 2 sisters and my parents. Today on this date 18 months ago was the biggest news for all of us because Churchill declared war on Germany. My father talks about his experience through the Great War and by his stories it didn’t sound like a good experience to go through. It kills me to know that these men will have to relive this horror again, and right now many lives are being lost. During these last 18 months has been a great for me, but also a struggle.
After the war was declared there was the battle at Dunkirk where many servicemen were saved and brought back here to Britain. That boat saved so many lives and especially one handsome looking Canadian serviceman in particular, John Bays. I met John 5 months ago at a dance in our town. Right from that moment when we laid eyes on each other and danced together I knew that he was the one for me. Ever since that night I have been in constant contact with him, I even snuck out once. If my parents were to ever find out I would be in so much trouble. I hope something will evolve out of our relationship because I can’t picture myself without him.
On the downside of the war is the constant Air Raids during the day and night. We never know when it’s going to hit us and it could be at any time. My mom, my dad, my older sister, and I sleep underground so that we can be safer. We sent off my little sister, Angela with a close friend of hers off to another family because it isn’t safe for her to be here right now with the same as the other younger children. The city is destroyed, but if it wasn’t for those men fighting against the Germans I don’t think we would be here today and so I really have to thank them. Hopefully, this war will be over so that John and I can spend more time with John because I don’t get to see him as often and so I can see my little sister Angela because I really miss her.

5 comments:

  1. I'm so happy that you have found the love of your life! As a factory worker, my rough attitude doesn't seem to attract any men. It's delightful that you are able to meet John Bays in the midst of such a horrifying war. I hope that you can unite with John and your sister soon!
    -Marilyn Anderson

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  2. I have heard about the night raids in Britain from my friends and colleagues. I really hope that where you live is not as badly damaged as the pictures they have shown me. Stay safe Shirley!
    ~ Patricia Meyer

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  3. I hope that you will remain safe during the air raids. I have read in newspapers that the British military have excellent airplanes, Spitfire, and technology, the radar. I am confident that the RAF will defend Britain with ease and maybe even take back France in the future. My best wishes to you and John!
    -Emma Bailey

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  4. In the midst of every shadow, there is always a light of hope. I am glad that you have found that hope, your love. Since you have found it, don't let go. Many people, such as myself, had hope and lost it. I lost my hope when I realized that my son died out at war. Shirley you are one lucky gal! Your love with John will aid all your wounds during this war. Take care!
    -Gurt Bachett

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  5. Its nice to see that in all of this hate and despair that you have found love. I hope John comes back to you soon, like I hope my dad will.
    -Richard Sharpe

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