I’ll be home for Christmas, if only in my dreams
The Evans family all together in Knoxville, TN. All four boys served in the U.S. Army Air Force during WWII.
This time of year can be bittersweet for military families. As the year closes and many celebrate the holidays, the absence of those who are serving, who might otherwise be home with the family, is most strongly felt.
The letters of Captain Richard “Eager” Evans illustrate this tension between the “call of home” and the “call of duty”. This post is dedicated to all those who serve, over the holidays and on all days, rain or shine.
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Captain Evans letter to his mother, October 12, 1943, North Africa
Hi Lady,
I’m worried. I don’t like to hear that you are banking too much on Christmas. We’re really up to our necks over here now and even though it is possible to return to the States after an operational tour, the idea of pulling out right now doesn’t appear to me as honorable in view of the fact that I am physically and mentally sound as I was the day I arrived.
I’m leading a fine bunch of young men and they really need me—I feel—when I get them on their own feet, I’ll be along.
Dick
William Evans to his son, Captain Evans, October 29, 1943, Knoxville, TN
Dick,
We noted in one of your last letters that you may not get home before Christmas. If you are entitled to leave, Dick, come on home. All of us want to see you, including JoAnn. Of course, if you feel it is your duty to stay, I know you will do it. You have gone the second mile always in loyalty to your country. I am proud of you, but maybe you should come back for a well-earned rest. Maybe you do not realize the strain on your body and mind. Think things through carefully; if your government says “after so many months and so many missions” you should have a change, spend a little time with us here in America. Don’t think that you just must stay and see it through. You see I know you, Dick. You don’t want to miss anything. I haven’t preached, much have I? I’ll now not start. Looks like Hitler is getting “plenty”. Hope his crowd is licked and Dick can come marching home.
Love, Dad
Further Articles
Barbara (“Bobbie”) Evans Kinnear, daughter of Colonel Richard Ernest Evans, joins historian and author, James Holland, on his podcast, “We Have Ways of Making You Talk”