James “Jimmy” J. Ley attended Grinnell College for two years before enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Force in 1942. Ley’s papers include an extensive series of correspondence written by Ley during his time at Grinnell and in the army air force, as well as personal items, photographs, and military documents.
Jimmy sent a photograph of a friend from Barksdale, Kelly and his wife. He mentions another friend from Barksdale, Bob Pyle. He thinks the Russians are doing well against the Nazis.
Jimmy thanks his family for gifts they sent and sends congratulations Betty and Ed’s new baby. He mentions a letter from a high school classmate Glen Klocke.
Jimmy received letters and packages from Rosa, Aunt Dode, Uncle Alb, and Ruthy. Jimmy writes about the authentic model airplane that he commissioned and plans to mail home when it is finished.
Ruth hopes Jimmy had fun on his furlough and mentions her sister might be off on furlough as well soon. Ruth then tells funny stories about Dave, her son, to Jimmy.
