Letters include one photograph, two ration books, seven V-Mail cards, two War Department postcards, a Roanoke, Virginia newspaper, a greeting card, and several handwritten letters. Letters are primarily written by Ellis David Lovern, Jr to his wife Ruby and daughter Nancy. Lovern served with the U.S. Army during World War II. His letters are sent from “somewhere in” Tennessee, England, Germany, and Belgium. Lovern frequently signs his name as “Elmer.” He addresses his wife’s concern about his safety and frequently asks for pictures of Ruby and Nancy (which he then quickly returns). Lovern describes lying in in bed looking at family photographs with his flashlight. Lovern asks if his wife prefers V-Mail or air mail, and he sends a German half mark and cartoon clippings with his letters. He also sends a note and frequently signs letters to "Susie," perhaps a pet dog.

Lovern also discusses his Army duties with Service Battery, 196 Field Artillery Battalion, where he once had to cook for 45 men on one stove. Lovern mentions a hand injury in May 1944 and severe knee pain required a return to England for medical treatment in March 1945. In January 1945, he describes visiting “the orphanage for the refugee kids” and meeting two young sisters. Also in early 1945, Lovern mentions a rumor that Russians will liberate them in Belgium, and shares that he cannot send cards until he is 25 miles away from “here” in Belgium.

The unlabeled photograph depicts two men, one in military uniform. The empty ration books are issued for Ruby and Nancy Lovern at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. The War Department postcards address Lovern’s acceptance to the Camp Lee (Virginia) Reception Center and his application for funds under the Service Men’s Dependent’s Allowance Act of 1942. There is one letter from Ruby’s sister, Helen, and a greeting card signed by daughter Nancy. The Roanoke, Virginia newspaper is The Hometown News dated January 1945.

Letters are arranged chronologically, with additional materials in the last two folders.