April 25, 1944

Dear Margaret,

Today was Anzac Day, comparable to our own Memorial Day. Quite an impressive service was held at the town memorial which is located right in front of our hospital. First came the local peace officers, then a gaily-clothed Scotch kiltie band in full regalia playing bagpipes and drums in their own peculiar manner. Next came the local home guard with their regular army uniforms, long rifles and fixed bayonets. After them came the veterans of the last war, and last the local Boy Scouts. The parade group and the townspeople gathered around the memorial and listened to some short, sincere speeches, after which memorial wreaths were placed by representatives of various groups and relatives of men who died in the last war and whose names were inscribed on the memorial. Finally while the guard stood at attention, one of the pipers played a dirge. It was a short ceremony, but one of great dignity. It was a privilege to be able to see it.

Much love,

Herb