June 5, 1942
11:00 p.m.

Dearest,
Boo! (That pest is back again!)

Just came in from the terrace. Daddy is putting the bee hive together. Oh didn't I tell you? Well mother is going to have a hive of bees. They are to be sent in 10 days. Yep, just come in a package, through the mail! Imagine! Now why couldn't they make up packages of bees and send them to the Germans! When they opened them the bees would swarm and sting the dickens out of them.

Oh yes, another of my ideas of annoying them is to raise a very streamlined mosquito which I will starve for weeks, then we will drop thousands of them in Germany and let the feast on the Germans! Then for the Japs, I think I will send them a lovely gift, in fact two gifts - itch - I know they would become attached to them. Going to have our air corps drop bombs which contain lice and fleas, millions of them. I just know they would be effective. Well - enough of my soliloquies.

Would you believe me when I told you the breeze is so cool coming through my window that I had to cover up with a blanket. Brr---but it certainly was hot today!

Ho hum, I'm getting so sleepy right now. Guess it's because there's such a nice breeze coming through the window.

You know my sweet, I found some of the first letters you wrote me last year and I had to laugh, for you certainly are a persistent young man. Now wonder I fell in love with you. Who could resist such a campaign. (here come some memories.) But didn't we have fun that winter dashing home, and going dancing every evening and then when spring came. The drives and walks and those evenings when my conscious simply made me study and then at 10,I would have to meet you at the drugstore. Usually I didn't get much done for I would have to keep looking at the clock to make sure I wouldn't miss the bus.

Hmm, we always have fun don't we. I know we always will, for we are in love - definitely and completely so.

Good night my fiance. We can't be beat.

Keep em flying.

Our special kiss
X

Your Becky loves you.

Aircraft Accident Report

On July 1, 1942 at Bateman Field, Camden, S. C. Aviation Cadet E.E. Narick, at the controls of a PT-17, Serial No. 41-25629, while landing his plane was struck by a gust of wind at an altitude of approximately six (6) feet,. The ship went over on the left wing and struck the ground, breaking a spar, then rolled over on the right wing in a ground loop to the left. After the impact the throttle was closed to prevent further damage.

The aircraft accident classification committee meet on July 7, 1942 and concluded that the student (Emil Narick) landed with his left wing low. The wing striking the ground and causing the airplane to ground loop to the left. Had the student been more alert and corrected the attitude of the airplane before striking the ground, the accident could have been avoided. Recommending continued stress be placed on proper landing technique.

A Little Fact About Emil:

An article published in February, 1961, gave the public some insight in to a normal morning for Emil as he began his work day.

Emil would walk the mile from his home to the Drake trolley. The 47 Drake was a PCC trolley line that was part of the Pittsburgh Light Rail system. It was the last line in the city of Pittsburgh, PA to be used solely for PCC streetcars. It originally was part of an interurban trolley line that ran from Pittsburgh to Washington, PA until 1953, when the service was cut back to the Allegheny County border at Drake and all trolleys turned using the newly constructed loop, situated below the trestle. The line closed on September 4, 1999.

During Emil's walk in the subzero mornings, many motorist would stop and over him a ride. Emil began carrying a personal billboard gratefully declining: NO THANK YOU I PREFER TO WALK. He preferred to walk because walking is good exercise and as a college football official, the walking kept him trim.

Box 440
Whg. W. Va.

May 12, 1942

Cadet Emil E. Narick

Sqd. D. Group I

Orderly Office

Maxwell Field, Alabama

Monday Evening

After supper

Hiya brother dear,

How's our boy feeling today? Fine, we're all hoping.

Say boy, we haven't heard from you for days. What is the matter? Busy, I'll betcha! Well, write whenever you have the time and we'll appreciate your sending. Mother and Pop and the rest of the family really look forward to your letters.

Mom got your ornament two days before Mother's Day, but it was broken to pieces! Mary & Mom took it up to the post-office and they had it sent to you. For what, I don't know! What we did see of your Mother's Day gift was simply grand! Mother like it loads, and wants me to be sure and thank you a million for the gift and the very nice card. Nice of you to remember, bro!

Mother and Mary we're in town this afternoon. They met Mrs. Nay. Mom thinks she's wonderful and so does Mary!

Becky was down home Sunday afternoon, but no one was home. Mother was at the May procession at the Cathedral in Whg. (Wheeling). Mary was out for the afternoon, and I was in bed! But Becky came up and left a bottle of Old Spice Toilet Water for Mom. Was so sweet of her! She's a dear, and we all like her plenty!!

Becky brought the pictures of you in uniform, playing football. Say hon, they are nice. Would I be asking you for too much if I asked for a picture of you (alone) in uniform. Please Emil, may I have it?

Mother would just love to have a big picture of you in uniform. They want to put it in on her dresser.

Well dear, words are failing me. Write soon. Regards and love from every single one of us!

Like you!

Your Sis,

Anny

Cadet Emil E. Narick
Sqd. D. Group 1
Orderly Office
Maxwell Field, Alabama

May 10, 1942

Just few lines for writing. Receve you leters. I not understanding good writing English that what not writing from my self. Home everything right. Beky been here last Sunday after-non. Show me and mother you pichers and left here so we old family see pichers then she kam back for pickhers before leve for trip to you by plane. She told me and mother that going be nice of her. Me and mother like here that you in office work something extra better - - - - -my be not going in action. Here cold every day litle. I not work for 1 week repair by mine on - - - - - - - - -we not work sence 3 May. Maybe start on 13 May. Beky say she not - - - - nothing else only has going on trip for you by plane 22 May. She say what got money from her mother and dad for graduation that going spending on trip and take lot of pichers over here by you place. - - - - - -mother filing o.k. and everybodyelse.

Yours mother and dad

Good by

P.W. I receve your papers what you send 1 month ago in Charleston. Charleston and in Morgantown - - - - - -Receve old that paper except not receve yours diploma from Pittsburgh University

Yours mother and dad
Steven and Rose Narick

I keep that papers home in safe- - - -

May 3, 1942


Sunday night

Darling, My gosh hold me down, I'm flying high--Just missed my bus to go back to Pittsburgh, Aunt Eva has been fitting dresses on me all afternoon and evening. Called Mr. Potts while I was down in Moundsville, and he said he had written Mr. Higgenbotham last week , and as yet had not received any word from him. So, I called Mr. Higgenbotham as soon as I got back in Wheeling, and he said is just a minute ago over the telephone, that he thought I could consider the proposition settle, and would write me Tuesday, when he returned to Charleston confirming it. Then he will make out a program of suggested studies for this summer course of mine. Yipe, I'm happy. School marm---that's e. Just had to add this to the note, and pictures that mother is sending.

Stopped in to see your mother today, and take her a little present for mother's day, but she had gone to the Cathedral to see your coustin as may queen or something. Saw George and Mary (note to the reader: George and Mary are Emil's brother and sister). Will go down again next Sunday afternoon to see them all, and get all the messages to be sent to you, for do you realize that it is the next Thursday evening, that I start my little jaunt down to see you young man--hardly seems possible does it. I'm all excited, and if I talk as much as I have talked this week end--heaven help you.

Now let me see what else in a hurry--oh yes, if there's a dance--fine I'm ready to keep up with you young man--and how. Daddy is getting his coat on--and I've got to catch a five thirty bus in the morning--so lordy lordy little man, I love you bushels and think your elegant, and gosh I wish you were here for I'm in a celebrating mood--but that will wait until I get down there to see you.

All my love is yours--Becky xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx guess you know who there for --xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Yippee, as a school teacher to be I'm a rotten speller & typist.

Love you Boo!

In the previous letter from Becky's Folks, they mention getting the gem sized (engagement ring) . The receipt shows the name of the jeweler as W.J. Lukens Co. Jewelers in Wheeling, W. VA. It was located on Market Street. Date of the receipt is 4/28/42 and the amount paid on the account was $55.00. Name on receipt is Emil E. Narick, Maxwell Field, Montgomery, Alabama.

W.J. Lukens Co. opened in Wheeling, W. Va., in 1883. I am thrilled that I have this actual receipt. It was in the letters that I bought on E-Bay.

Pent House 12th St. Garage Bldg.
Wheeling, West Va.

April 29, 1942

Cadet Emil E. Narick

Squadron D. Group 1

Barrack 813, Room 2

Maxwell Field

Montgomery, Alabama

Wed. Afternoon

Dear Emil:

We were so happy to have your letter this morning, so happy that you are getting along so well. We are betting on you, we know you can do it.

We have our girl home for the week. She is all worn out and the Dr. would not hear to her going back to school until she is all rested up and her pain gone.

We were so worried when Kay brought her home Monday night, but after she had a new blood count we are certain that the rest will do the work. As you know her, she was hard to make know she was a sick girl. But I guess we have her under control now.

She has worked so hard all winter and all the things to worry about, beside her school work, which has not been easy at all. But I think we can have her all in good shape and able to make her trip to see you that is if she minds the doctor.

I am enclosing receipt on the amount you sent Becky. She had never been able to have it cashed until yesterday. So while we had her out to the Dr. she cashed the money order and went and had the Gem sized for her finger.

I will await your instructions about having it shipped your way. No doubt you will want to use it when the little girl comes down.

She's about decided to fly both was. Her Dad thinks it would be so much nicer and easier for her since she is not feeling up to par. We have most decided not o let her go through her graduation on the first of June. It would be a lot of rush and worry, and if she goes to summer school she will need some rest before the gets into it again. All depends.

Got to go to work, Boss is calling.

Best of good luck,

Becky's Folks

The McLure House Hotel

Where Becky went for her interview

(see her letter dated April 2, 1942)

Constructed in 1851 and opened in 1852, the McLure House Hotel has been a mainstay for Wheeling, West Virginia.

The Hotel was originally built in a doughnut shape and contained a watering trough and hitching posts for horses and carriages. The registration desks and offices were located on the second floor due to the muddy mess that occurred in the open lobby. However, this was not the fascinating feature of the Hotel.......the 12th street entrance was marked 'Ladies' and was built with a wider door. The width of the door made room for the cumbersome and fashionable wide hoop skirts that were worn by the women of the time. The McLure Hotel had a beautiful menu as the railroads could bring in everything. Wheeling was the Western terminus of the B&O railroad. Wheeling was where you "jumped off" to go west. There was a lot of seafood in those days. The old Russians had fresh oysters and fresh clams. They would bring them in, in ice barrels from Baltimore. Wheeling became a big seafood town. The Hotel had gold table service, all the fine foods, exotic foods....Hundreds of beautiful, detailed, formal dinners were conducted at the McLure Hotel. It is still open for business today.

Just a bit of history information regarding the George Deen Act that Rebecca mentions in her April 2, 1942 letter to Emil:

In 1936, the United States government instituted the George-Deen Vocational Law. This law provided federal funds to states to improve vocational education in public schools and colleges. Under the Smith-Hughes Act of 1917, the federal government provided matching funds to states to provide vocational education in agriculture and home economics. The George-Deen Vocational Law extended funding to workers in "distributive" occupations. These jobs included any positions involving the sale of a product or of a service. Some examples of these occupations are store managers, purchasing agents, and salespeople, among others.

The George-Deen Vocational Law of 1936 helped provide students and workers with job training, helping them to attain better positions.

April 3, 1942

My Darling fiancee,

Love you so dam much......We had classes all morning and after lunch we went out to the "shooting range". We stayed at the Pistol Range until 5:30 and it really was enjoyable. We learned lot about the official pistol of the U.S. Army. We were all given a chance to shoot 15 rounds of shots at targets. I must confess dear, my shooting wasn't so good. There were about 1000 of us out, and it really is a nice range. We all took turns shooting, while the sun beat down. The Range officer was very nice.

This evening dear, we're all cleaning our rifles. During the next two weeks sometime we will meet the commandant of Cadest, Lt. Colonel Guenther and General Stratmeyer, the Commanding office of Maxwell Field. It'll be a treat though just to see General Stratmeyer , because we hear a lot about him but haven't seen him as yet.

Yours forever darling,

Emil

Cadet Emil E. Narick

Army Air Corps

Squadron D, Group I

Barracks 813, Room 2

Maxwell Field

Montgomery, Alabama

April 2, 1942

Thursday

Darling Emil,

Guess what, I'm having an unexpected holiday to-morrow! I came down for my interview this afternoon, and was planning on taking the 10 p.m. bus back to Pittsburgh. Kay called me at nine saying Dottie Weber had left a note on the door saying we didn't have to work to-morrow. So I called Dottie and sure nuff, twas true. So here I am Butch down home and a whole day ahead of me. I can hardly wait to get to bed for I'm dead for sleep - didn't sleep well the past 3 nights. Queer how I relax and sleep at home. It must be the crowded conditions up at the apartment.

Now I have news. I dashed down on the 12:15 buss - arriving at Wheeling bus terminal at 2:35. Mother had the car there and I dashed to the office, changed into my tan suit, black hat and shoes and trotted down to the McClure Hotel. To make a long story short Emil, I have an excellent chance of teaching next year. Possibly at Moundsville. Had choice of Bluefield, Martinsburg and Moundsville. I will have to go to summer school to get the educational requirements (6 wk) and 3 weeks of training under George Deen Act. Total 9 weeks. I can get this at Pitt or New York Univ, depending which one we can work out the courses I need the best. 6 weeks of education plus the 3 weeks mentioned above. He suggested I go down and see the County Superintendent, Potts - if i sell him o.k. then I qualify myself by taking this summer work - 10 months from the middle of August to the middle of June. $150 a month $1500 a year. He told me to make myself look as old as possible when I go to see hi. sounds good doesn't it. I'm so encourage about it for it sounds heavenly, not having someone over you continually. Not being allowed to have any freedom during the day in a store kills me. This work will be extremely difficult but interesting and how grand it would be to be located at Moundsville.

Of course, there is the question of the expense of this summer course. It will cost me about $300 and of course it takes all of my vacation for I would start in the middle of August teaching. It also means that I couldn't marry you and go with you Emil when you get your commission, blunt aren't I. For I wouldn't have any vacation and I would have a contract to fulfill and I won't be married and be away from you, emphatic aren't I. That isn't the way marriage should be started. What do you think? I wish we could wait until all of this were over and could be married. Start to housekeeping, but that was the way ti was done in the old days, peace days. Its something you have to help me with darling. Tell me how you feel about it. Darn, if I were only with you I could tell in a minute by the way your eyes look. Think this out with me from all sides. The whole war situation is so much more serious than we thought when you left, isn't it?

Mother and dad are tickled pink about this opportunity, and daddy thinks its so worth while. He will give me the money for summer school, then I'll pay him back next year out of my salary.

Emil-do you know what $150 a month means? Means I can get the things I should have - linens, and perhaps our sterling, and you could save yours after December, and then we would be pretty well set by summer. We would know more about the work you will be doing. Now it would also give me a better chance for personnel work in dept. stores if I should choose to go back to them again.

Now those all seem like selfish reasons. I don't mean them to be such for I never think entirely of myself but of us. I think I know how you are going to feel. I'm afraid you will be very disappointed and yet i can't help feel that you feel as I do, that all of this war business is much more complicated and involved than you and I foresaw when you left. Emil I sincerely feel that you and I are going to have to put aside our plans and do our job completely and get this business over with. I can help by teaching this vocational work, training people for jobs which must be filled in stores and in some cases industry. Jobs which have been left open by men being called to the forces. Incidentally, that is what is happening to the teacher whose place I would take.

Emil, I think I'd like this teaching. I'm excited about it. I'd even be happy to go to summer school. Incidentally I could apply those education courses toward my Doctor's degree. My heavens, I don't think Id ever want a doctor's degree. Of course no one would ever take me for an intellect though. Boo, tell me, do you agree or disagree sweet? You see I mustn't go to summer school and spend that money if I don't go completely through with it.

Rebecca writes more later on Easter Sunday, April 5, 1942.

----Dearest Emil,

Hello darling, did you have a nice Easter? Was it warm, and was the sun shining brightly? And tell Me, how was church this morning? (GOSH HOW I LOVE YOU!) I know it must have been quite the grandest experience you have every had. I remember the day I went into the church. I was only six years old, but it was the most wonderful and full experience I've had and it adds something that never can be taken away from you. I thought about you continually today, for I knew that you were very close to me.

My Easter was quite different from last year. It was warm here but very windy up on the hill and dearest. you fiancee is upsetting Easter tradition. She hasn't been dressed up all day. No Easter hat but instead a shirt and skirt and dirt on my nose. For you know what I did? Planted trees, yes dear, you read correctly. My Easter present from the folks were 5 Lombardy poplar trees. Young ones and I planted them out by the garage and am I sure sore and stiff. Little did I know it was so much work. First daddy dug holes, and I planted them, fertilizer mixed with the soil. Then set just so - the crook in the tree set opposite to the way the wind blows, then packed tightly. Two buckets of water carried for each tree and ooh, am I sore and tired. (INCIDENTALLY I LOVE YOU!)

I helped with dinner then. You know I didn't take any pictures today. Rather had the feeling that you were going to call this afternoon and I was reluctant to leave to get film, for fear you would call, but then I can have some pictures taken next week.

Darling, I'm so proud of my trees. By the time you get home, they will be taller than even you, for they grow so very fast.

Friday night when I go in Pitts at 12:30, I was so very hungry for news from you and your 2 letters were wonderful. I'm so happy about the ring dearest - you will love it also. I do hope they haven't sold it. Next Friday when I come down to see Potts at Moundsville, I will make the arrangements. I'm about to run out of ink.

Your Special Delivery here Sat was grand too. I read parts of your letters to mother in front of the living room fire Sat. night when I got in. And ooh was I tired then!

(BOO - LOVE YOU) My new selling job at Gimbels is quite different from Hornes. The department is on the fourth floor, and is rather a barren sort of place - not very cheerful. Selling is difficult, for not only do you have to please the mother, but the child too. And I had forgotten that children 7 -10 could be such little brats! Several times I would have liked even enjoyed turning (Becky does now run out of ink and begins using black ink in her fountain pen)some of them over my knee and wielding a hand in a well known place. I believe that is the only language some of them could understand.

Time out---had to go out and give Duchess her dinner. She is so sweet.

Incidentally we saw Helen Louise's "Cinder" Friday afternoon and he is a beauty, Emil. They are so tickled with him. He really looks like a cocker. Duchess doesn't, but she is a dear. Darling have you ever heard about Duchess' parents. We must have that information before I can apply for her papers with the American Kennel Club.

So the classes are interesting, good! Work hard sweetheart, for you are going to be an excellent officer and trainer - watch, and mark my words!

Incidentally Emil, as soon as you can have a radio, let us know, and we will try to get you one, for I know how you must miss a radio. Perhaps you will be allowed one when you are a upper classman. Let's hope so! Darling, when you go into primary training, does that mean that you move from Maxwell field? Darling, if I go to summer school, I will have to come down between May 23 and June 7. I will have to start then. I'll check on definite dates tomorrow.

(LOVE YOU) In another hour I'll be on my way back to Pittsburgh. I'm getting so that I hate that bus trip. I guess making it twice a week for the past two weeks is causing that feeling.

Darling, your idea of writing a long letter on week-ends is grand. This past week the dashing back and forth cut off my letters too. Let's write a least one page, not more than two during the week. You just have too much to do dear. Please don't take time to write, you simply can't take the time. And I will understand, and I will not expect more. Do you understand my sweetheart?

Dearest, (LOVE YOU)do you sometimes feel that My will never come? I can hardly believe though that we have only this month, and next until we see each other. Will we both see a change in each other? No doubt we will, for after all, we are living separate lives under different conditions. That will make a change but it cannot change that one thing which is supreme, our love! I'll bet you will be quite discipline by this new life of yours. It's a good live though, isn't it?

Mother and daddy just come in from watering some new hedge that they put out.

Guess what - had a little visitor last night. A tiny mouse came in and nibble a piece of candy that was on my dressing table. Poor thing, it doesn't know that there will be a lovely big piece of cheese for it tonight (attached to a trap)

Listening (LOVE YOU) to Walter Winchell now. Dearest, to night I feel that you and I have more in common than ever before. We have so much, you and I, and I know that a wonderful happiness is to be ours. The faith in our God cannot be destroyed, that is one thing that no Hitler can destroy. You and I must fight with everything that is in us for this faith and freedom, for true happiness will come when all of this mess is over.

Dearest, I must dress now and get ready to travel back to school. But I can't go without telling you dear that my love hasn't any bounds. It is yours Emil and now goodnight my fiancee. I love you and I believe you are understanding , sweet, and boo, I just plain love you. Goodnight my dear.

XXXXX

Your "Becky"

Your Sweet!

Yep love you.

Wheeling , W. Va.
April 2, 1942

Dear Emil,
Gosh is about all I can think to say but there will be something pop into my dome in a minute. Pop and I are listening to Kay Kaiser. I'm writing and he's flat on his back as usual. Mr. Wilbert says, "Hello Emil". God! but this is a lot of nothing. Some day I'm going to take a course in letter writing. I think I will start over.

Dear Emil,
Just a few lines to say hello and let you know I'm still alive.

Boy I guess W. V. U. really showed the country that they know something about how basketball in played. I hear that they weren't expected to win one game but they sure fooled everyone. I thought I was going to be around W.V.U. next year but I guess Kerns wasn't as interested as Pop thought. I never did think he was very interested in me anyhow. I think I will enroll in Baldwin Wallace this fall. Ray Watts is the coach there and a very nice fellow. Freshmen will be eligible for varsity sports there next year and maybe I can play a year of football and basketball before they give me a gun which I don't mind at ll. Well that's about all the bull I have to toss but if you ever have a little spare time (which I doubt) drop me a line or two. I know you are plenty busy and I wish you all the luck in the world and I know you will come thru with flying colors.

Yours till I can write better letters and I never will be able to do that.

Chas. L. Wilbert Jr.

1937 PITT PANTHERS FOOTBALL TEAM

The 1937 National Football Champs...the Pitt Panthers. Back row, l-r, Emil is the 6th one, # 30. (Click on picture to enlarge.)

Cadet Emil E. Narick

Army Air Corps

Squadron D

Craig Field

Selma, Alabama

February 6, 1942

Pittsburgh, PA

Oakland Station

February 5, 1942

Thursday Night

Dearest darling,

Boo! Guess what! Young man, you certainly are the most persistent person I've met for some time. You have crept ito my thoughts a million and one times today. Just when I would think "Becky, get your mind on your work" in you would come again. So young man, I just gave up and let my thoughts entertain you.

It all started early this morning. I was lygin in bed thinking of you, loving you in my dreams, for that was what I was doing, dreaming of my darling. You know, I'm beginning to think that you just sit down there and concentrate real hard on having me think about you, fess up now, do you?

This morning I spent at dear old Hornes' trying to put their little assistant buyer on a single spot & pry some information out of her, but somehow, she couldn't seem to gather her pretty wits about her long enough to give me a sinsible answer.

Then my dear, after lunch, I trucked over to Boggs & Buhl on North side to shop that little establishment. Francis Platt (from Nebraska) and I walked over. I wanted to walk over the bridge. It was lovely, if you could sidetrack your nose from the fish-like odor that wafted over the rails.

Came home then at 4:30 & dropped onto the bed & slept for about twnety minutes. It was really grand to sleep like that. Haven't indulged for ages in off-time slumbering. Then when jeanie came home at six-thirty we went down to the Juna for dinner.

Clover called Kay this evening from his home in Knox. Seems that he is leaving for Texas, Saturday to sell some oil wells that his mother left him. Then go on to Floriday for the remainder of the witner. His arthristis deands something more warm and dry than Pennsylvania. I guess he is dropping in Friday night. I suppose he is the same old Clover. He probably will never grow up in many ways.

Enclosed you will find a clipping concerning our two schools. Carlson certainly does make a spectacle out of himself. Silly, being a person in his position!

I'm not going home this week-end--staying here to get completely caught up on my work . It will be my first week-end here for some time. Porbably will seem strange. If there is a good show on in town I may indulge. The following week-end I will go home Saturday night. Think I'll plan on every other week-end at home.

Seems I'm always planning things. Just turned over the possibilities of coming down this summer. Found that coming to Selma would take a might long time on the train. Leave 8:45 a.m. ..Arrive 2:oo p.m. the next day. Could take a plane from Pitts, 8:15 a.m. and arrive in Birmingham at 12:50 p.m. and then take a bus from Birmingham to Selma...quite a difference in time but also in price 34.00 one way to Birmingham by plane. Would that I were a millionaire.

Darling, today as I wandered through Horne's furniture department, I kep wondering what type of furniture you would like in your home. Finally decided i would have to be comfortable. We're both such lazy so and so's. Some day I hope we may have a large comfortable place, out from town where we can hike to our hearts content. Whee we both can have our dogs and picnis any time we want them. Sound wonderful to me.

Bing Crosby's program is on now. I've been writing and dreamin on this letter for almost two hours. It seems that I think so much more than I write.

Mother said that she had talked to mary and that she said your mother just lived from mail to mial...that makes two of us. Awful, aren't we?

Crosby is singing "I don't want to walk without you". thats the way I feel sweet...Only I'll change it to "I don't want to live without you!"

Dear, there seems to be such a vast empty space inside of me. I'm just half alive without you. Dear, I didn't fully realize how much I depended upon you...why darling, you made my life complete. Tell me dearest, do you realize that this young lady is much much more in love with you than ever when she said good bye to you two weeks ago? She is....absence is certainly making her heart grow fonder for you?

I was reading in one of the magazines that this war rested so vey much on the shoulders of the girls of the country. It was up to the girls to keep the boys contented in their country's service. I don't think all of the girls realize that. We are just getting into this war...Sat. will be the beginning of the second month. It's hard to tell how long it will go on. There are so many fronts to fight. The majority of the American people still don't fully realize the seriousness of the situation. Makes me feel like standing them up against a wall and reading a riot act. Simple fools some of them.

Now tell me my own Butch...don't you think Id better sign off for the time being. I've been all evening dreaming along.

Darling, keep that chin up and keep on trudging along. You're going to be an important man in this army of ours. Want to bet?

I'm loving you every single second and having all the faith in this world of ours in your ability to be a big man on this army campus.

My love is yours forever. I just kissed you did you know?

Your Becky

This is a photo of Emil in his later years.

Letter to Cadet Emil E. Narick

Sqd. D.

Orderly Office

Maxwell Field, Alabama

date May 11, 1942

from Emil's parents (using their words)

Wheeling, W. Va.

10 May 42

Just few ines for writing. Receive your leters. I not understanding good writing English that about not wirting from my self. Home everything right. Beky been here last Sunday after-non. Show me and mother your pichers and left here so we should family see pichers then she kam back for pickhers before leve for trip to you by plane. She told me and mother that going be nice for her. Me and mother like her. That you in office work something extra better ???? my be not going . Here cold every day litle. I not work for 1 week repair by mine ??? ?????. We not working sense 3 May. Maybe start on 13 May. Beky say she not thing nothing else only has going on trip for you by plane 22 May. She say what got money from her mother and dad for ???????? that going spending on trip and take lot of pichers over here by you place home. Mother feeling o.k. and evelrybody else.

Yours mother and dad

goodby

P.S. I receve your papers what you send 1 month ago in Charleston. ???? ????? ?????. Receve old that paper exept not receve your diploma from Pittsburgh Univercity.

Your mother and dad

Steven and Rose Narick

I keep that papers home in safe-please.

Emil's Roots....

His father Steven, a Croatian immigrant, worked in the coal mines while his mother, Rose, ran a boarding house and raised five children. Emil earned a football scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh. Not only was he the first in his family but the first kid from his high school to go to college. Emil arrived at Pitt with one pair of shoes, two pairs of pants and two shirts. He was a standout on the championship 1937 Pittsburgh Panthers foot ball team, playing the now-defunct position of halfback passer.

Emil...a judge on the field and in the court room:

After serving in the Army Air Corps in World War II and obtain the rank of major, he left the service in 1946. Emil turned down an offer to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers and became an assistant football coach and full-time law student at West Virginia University.

Emil Narick had a common-sense approach to law. This enabled him to end many labor disputes. He had a long career in labor law. Upon graduation from WVU, Emil moved to the National Labor Relations Board, traveling the nation to mediate labor disputes. He became assistant general counsel to the United Steelworkers of America in 1958 and almost won the presidency of the United Steelworkers union in 1969. He lost by 10 percentage points.

During this career, though, he would gain his widest fame for cracking down on the bizarre tactics of the pro-labor group DMX (which used disruptive tactics) in the mid 1980's. Emil once said that this was his most difficult case. The Rev. D. Douglas Roth, a Lutheran pastor and member of DMX threw skunk oil into a children's Christmas party at a church to bring attention to the plight of unemployed steelworkers. Rev. Roth was removed from his pulpit and barricaded himself in his former church. Judge Narick eventually jailed the Rev. Roth during a drawn-out court battle in which the judge's family received death threats. According to Emil's son, Kirk Narick, "It reached the proportion where we had a county trooper living at our house and one across the street."

State Supreme Court Justice Ralph J. Cappy, said about Emil "He was a people's judge. He was first and foremost concerned with the law, but after what the law dictated, his heart went with the little guy."

Dan Shuckers, who had known Emil since their attorney days, said "He was the type of person that, if you were in a room with him, you always knew he was in charge."

Rachel Stoltenberg, went to work for Emil as a law clerk soon after Emil's wife, Rebecca, died suddenly. All who him said the he was devastated by her death in 1998. Rachel said "He was a true gentleman, probably one of the last. He respected people, respected their views."

His son Kirk said "He always wanted to give back. He could have made a lot more money in private practice than he ever made as a judge, but it was his way of giving back."

Army Air Base

A.T.C.

Homestead, Florida

Jan. 4, 1942

Dearest Mother and Dad,

Heres that man again right back from where I started-but before I go on-I must tell you how wonderful a vacation I did have and honestly you've been so perfect in making it possible for Becky and I. its the grandest Xmas holiday I've spent in all my life. We had fun in doing things we've always loved, and were able to be together-for all of that I'm so thankful and feel lucky that I was able to be home.

I appreciated every little thing you've done for us-I can't thank you enough-because that wouldn't be enough. Lordley the wonderful memories I have of this leave-the Xmas eve party with the Fairs, the fireplace again, decorating our tree, Mr. Nay in his clothes for tinkering downstairs, mother giving Harry Paul his first apple;our being forced from driving while with the Fairs; the many new improvements around the house, the chickens, Duchess putting her nose in the snow; and the wonderful time "Becca" and I had-she's a darling-life is so complete when we can be together that way-I love and like our "Becca" more than ever before. We had so darn much at the dance we went to and dining with the Wilberts-particularly Sue Bockman coming to see us every few minutes.

My trip down was not of routine after getting started. Becky probably has told you my train from Wheeling was late getting started-however I got to Pittsburgh about 4:00A.M. Had to wait until 9:00am to get the train to Washington. While waiting in Pittsburgh I called Jonesy & Hawkins-so we had breakfast together & talked until I left. Jonesy is little nervous about leaving this Wed. but he'll like it once he gets started. Got to Washington in time to get the Streamliner to Florida-arrived in Miami about 7:45P.M.-only 2 hrs late this trip.

Here I go again sending out Propoganda about this Florida climate-but darn it I can't resist. Its really beautiful-just like mid-summer at home. I'm wearing summer clothes-if I stay here very long I'll have to put my winter clothes in storage.

Today we were issued all our flying equipment which will be our permanent possessions-Jacket, shirt, cap, goggles, sweater, flying suit. Also we took care of all necessary paper work. Incidentally you remember the discussion we had at the Fairs about not being able to save $500 by June. Inform Helen Louise I'll be glad to make her a wager that I'll have that amount by June and still have the things I need. I still can't see how they figure you can't-I guess I'll have to prove it to them-that'll be the best way.

We'll stay here until February sometime-then be assigned to a permanent station that we'll call home. Until then we'll fly transition in the ships that'll be using in our Transport flying. I like this phase of flying more everyday. Right now I'm rather eager to get started and get in some flying. We'll start in the morning.

I'll write as we keep moving along more in our work. Please thank the Roberts for taking Becky and I to the bridge-and again mother and dad thanks a million for everything you've done for us-made life so beautiful while home. Things like this make a fellow so much more determined to work hard and make a success in life-Becky and I can and will do just that.

So until later-I'll be thinking of you always

Loads of love

Emil

Emil

Emil was born in 1916 and passed away on March 3, 2007 at the age of 90. His wife, Rebecca "Becky" preceded him in death. He is survived by his son and two grandsons.

Emil graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1939. He joined the Army Air Corps after Pearl Harbor and rose to the rank of Major. Emil was a flight instructor and later became an inspector in the South Pacific. Upon his return to Pittsburgh in 1946, he accept a position as an assistant football coach at West Virginia University and enrolled as a full-time law student.

Emil had a long career in labor law and was elected to the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas bench in 1977. However, due to his age, he was forced to retire from the common pleas bench in 1986, but then became a senior judge on the Commonwealth Court. He was also involved with the community, serving as a Pitt trustee and as chair of the Allegheny County Planning Commission.

January 30, 1942 Friday night

Special Delivery January 31, 1942

Cadet Emil E Narick

Corps of Aviation Cadets

Maxwell Field

Montgomery, Alabama

Darling,

In a few minutes Peggy and Bob will be calling for me to go to a movie. How nice if we could all be together, but those days will come again.

It seems that we are always having an anniversary over something or other-doesn't it-Just a week ago this morning you left. Don't you feel as though you were in an entirely different world? Nice warm climate now for you. I'm sure you are going to like that new life of yours. And before you know it, you will have your commission, and yes-I will be with you. Ours will probably be a funny life for awhile, but I will be happy anywhere, just so I can be with you. Its hard to tell where we will live, or under what conditions but those things are quite incidental.

There isn't a great deal of news to write about today. Researched all day over on the 19th floor -making charts-and finally Ginny Vinnedge and I sorted sales checks for about three hours-a tiresome job. I'd go completely batty if I had a job like that day after day!

At noon, Jane Stonerod and I went up to the bank and what a crowd was there! Pay day I guess. Took me about twenty minutes to even get up to the window.

This evening was down to King Edward - bought a lot of magazines and had a chocolate milk at our favorite table in the back. The boys there were asking about you.

---------------------Later--------------------

Just came in from the movies with Peggy and Bob. We went to see "The Man Who Came to Dinner". It really is the fastest moving movie I've seen for some time and is excellent. Bob and Peggy tickle me to pieces - their plans are indefinite too - not for exactly the same reasons. Oh yes, Bob said for me to be sure and tell you that when I went out with them, they really showed me a time. Not just to the show, mind you, but hamburgers too!, at the White Tower...they were good.

Didn't get a letter today so I'll come back out to the apartment tomorrow night after work before going home. There just might be a letter.

With all due respect to Peggy and Bob, I think we are a nicer couple, prejudiced aren't I! But I do think we are pretty nice.

Had a card from mother today saying she had been vaccinated. Also that daddy's uncle Bock Nay had died in Casey, IL on Tuesday. All his other uncles had just been by on Monday. The Nays certainly are disappearing fast. Daddy is the last of that line. I always thought I would like to include Nay in my son's name because of that, but it wouldn't sound right to name a boy Bland Nay Narick. Nay and Narick just sound too much alike don't they?

I'm here by myself tonight. The girls have gone home. I was so glad that Peg and Bob took me out tonight, for I would have been pretty moody staying in by myself I suppose. I've learned in this past week to stay around people, for I miss you too terribly when I'm by myself. Mother appreciated your letter so much - good work - Drop Jonesy a card and mention how much I enjoyed going out with them. They were swell. Jonesy sends his very best and is calling me for your exact address next week when I come back from home.

Darling, let's save dimes, you and I. I have a new piggy bank which will hold just $20. Let's do that and buy another bond. Does it appeal to you? I'll try to save at least a dime a day. Maybe I can make it a dollar a week. It wouldn't take us long that way, would it? What do you think?

Darling, I've wondered what you are doing tonight. What you are thinking and wondering if my letters are reaching you alright. I'll send this special delivery in the hope that you get it Sunday. It's spring weather here tonight too, darling. Now if we just had some of the sunshine you seem to have so much of down there. I'm wishing our warm weather would stay around. But we really haven't had our snowy season have we?

Tonight in one of the magazines I was looking through I found these three little quotations which I though were quite good:

"What They Say About Living"

Most of the shadows of this life are caused by standing in our own sunshine----Emerson

Character is the result, not so much of trying to be good, as trying to be better----Anon

No one is entirely useless. Even the worst of us can serve as horrible examples -----The Arkansas Banner

I'm finding myself comparing you with everyone I know dearest, You know, there can never be happiness for me without you. I'm in love with you Emil. Not for just the "duration" but forever.

My love to Uncle Sam's best Cadet

"Becky"xxxxx

I love you more darling and am sending you a special kiss. Shut your eyes and think of it.

"Becky"

Rebecca "Becky" Nay was born in Mannington, West Virginia and raised in Parkersburg and Wheeling West Virginia. She graduated from Tridelphia High School in Wheeling. Becky graduated with her B.S. in 1941 from the University of Pittsburgh and in 1942, received her Master Degree in Distributive Education. She also attended and received a Masters Degree from New York University.

Becky and Emil were married 54 years before her death at the age of 78 in 1998. She died of a heart attack in her husbands arms at their home.

Becky was a member of the West Minster Presbyterian Church, Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania. Her hobbies included cooking and traveling.

At the time of her death, she was survived by her husband, Judge Emil Edmund Narick, one son David Kirk Narick and two grandsons.

WEDDING PLANS PUT ON HOLD FOR A YEAR

In April, 1942, Rebecca has an opportunity to teach in high school, but this would postpone their marriage a year as Rebecca has to sign a contract for one year. For her interview at the McClure Hotel, it was suggested that she dress "older". So Rebecca selected a tan suit, black hat and shoes. The teaching position (which she did obtain) would be at Moundsville.

This new job required Rebecca to go to summer school for six weeks to obtain the educational requirements and then three more weeks of training (as she already had her under graduate degree). Teaching would mean working 10 months from the middle of August to the middle of June at a salary of $150 a month ....$1500 a year. The summer course would cost $300. This teaching position would teach vocational work...training people for jobs which must be filled in stores and in some cases industry...jobs which have been left open by men being called to the forces. Incidentally that was what happened to the teacher whose place Rebecca would fill.

Rebecca refused to marry Emil before she finished teaching as she didn't won't to be married and be away from him. They both agreed that marriage should not be started with a separation. She wished that they could wait until all of this War "business" were over but that was impossible for now...America was no longer a country at peace. The whole War situation was so much more serious than they thought when he left to join the Army Air Corps. The War was much more complicated and involved than just Rebecca's and Emil's personal life. The couple would have to put aside their plans and do their job completely and get this War business over with.

With Rebecca's teaching salary she could buy linens and perhaps their sterling. Emil could put his pay into savings and they would be pretty well set come the summer of 1943.

Distance and the Heart

While Emil was getting trained in the Army Air Corps stationed @the Army Air Base in Homestead, Florida, Rebecca was missing Emil very much.

She told him that in reading one of the magazines, she came across an article about the war resting so very much on the shoulders of the girls of the country. It was up to the girls to keep the boys contented in their country's service. Rebecca doubted that all of the girls realized that. The majority of the American people still didn't realize the seriousness of the situation.

Rebecca was in love with Emil - not for just the duration - but forever.

Convenient "Engine Trouble" in a C-46

After graduation in 1939, Emil worked for the Ford Motor Co. After Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps.

One time, as he flew a C-46 across the eastern United States, the C-46 conveniently developed "engine trouble" over Wheeling, West Virginia. Being an easy drive of the love of his life, Rebecca Nay, Emil landed the plane. He assumed the military wouldn't be the wiser. However, his plane was by far the largest ever to land at the Wheeling airport. The local newspaper not only covered the landing, but reported Emil and Rebecca dining together.

When Emil reached his destination, MP's escorted him from the C-46 and took him to the commanding officer who proceeded to "chew" Emil out in a rather loud voice. The commanding officer later remarked, "Wish I'd thought of that one."

A Bit of Emil's History

Emil's Croatian immigrant parents were very glad Emil turned down playing professional footbal with the Pittsburgh Steelers to study law. Emil had been a member of the University of Pittsburgh's Pitt Panthers 1937 championship team.

As Emil loved to tell stories, one of his favorites was flying to a game at the University of Washington . It became a marathon journey, lasting 2 days. The team stopped over in Los Angeles for a public realtions shoot with actress and pin up girl Rita Hayworth.

More Background Information on Emil and Rebecca

Emil and Rebecca came from two entirely different upbringings but one thing they had in common was their desire for education, hard work and most importantly their love for each other.

Emil went to college on a football scholarship and was a son of a miner.

Rebecca's father was an architect, Harry Ray Nay.

In the beginning....

My history with Emil and Rebecca began in Feb, 2007 when I purchased some World War II love letters off of EBay. I read the letters with great interest because of my desire to learn about the daily lives of the men and women during wartime. I was born in the late 1940's and grew up hearing my parents, mostly my mother, talk of World War II. I've always had a fascination with the time period of 1939-1945 in the United States.

The letters exchanged between Emil and Rebecca show their tremendous love for one another and also give great insight to the feelings that American's had for their support of the War. Individual feelings were put aside and put on hold for the "duration". Any sacrifice was not too great. It's a shame that so many Americans are totally clueless to what that would be like today.