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Letters, 1952

 File — Box: Small Collections Box 115, Folder: 1

Scope and Contents

From the Collection:

Two handwritten letters from Walter Lada to his girlfriend Irma Marhan while Lada was stationed in Bainbridge, Maryland at the United States Naval Training Center, perhaps as part of the lead-up to the Korean War. Marhan's address is Long Island City, New York, and Lada refers to her as "Hon" in both letters.

Both letters are written on U.S.N. stationery. The first sheet includes an illustration of a topless woman with a short hair bob dancing for a group of sailors. The second sheet includes an illustration of a woman, dressed in a slip and feathered headdress, smoking a pipe next to a sailor. mentions to Marhan that "a few of the fellas ordered" this stationery.

The first letter, dated 29 February 1952, discusses Lada's training with gas masks, his plans for his liberty the following night, and a concert played by Ray Anthony and his band. He mentions their plans for a "first date" when he returns home on leave. Lada closes with a word puzzle.

The second letter, dated 3 April 1952, shares his orders to leave Maryland and go to Jacksonville, Florida. He is unable to call or telegram Marhan because "the phones are booked for the next few days." Lada shares how much he loves and misses Marhan; he hopes she will wait for him.

Dates

  • Creation: 1952

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open to all researchers. Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations, such as the Virginia Public Records Act (Code of Virginia. § 42.1-76-91); and the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (Code of Virginia § 2.2-3705.5). Confidential material may include, but is not limited to, educational, medical, and personnel records. If sensitive material is found in this collection, please contact a staff member immediately. The disclosure of personally identifiable information pertaining to a living individual may have legal consequences for which the College of William and Mary assumes no responsibility.

Extent

From the Collection: .01 Linear Feet

Language

English

Repository Details

Part of the Special Collections Research Center Repository

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