In the autumn of 1918, young Lester Koontz in the 42nd Division wrote to his father from France. This letter was reprinted in A History of Shenandoah County, Virginia, and gives another glimpse into the observations and experiences of American soldiers during the final weeks of World War I.
You’ll find a few historical notes on World War I after the complete primary source to give a little background and historical depth to the letter. Continue reading