Evening Republican, Volume 59, Number 74, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 18 April 1917 — RECRUIT IS WELL PLEASED WITH NAVY [ARTICLE]

RECRUIT IS WELL PLEASED WITH NAVY

Raymond Dixie, Who Enlisted In Navy Last Week, Writes Concerning His Work. Raymond Dixie, a grandson of William Dixie, of this cit” and who was one of the naval recruits from this city who was accepted, in a letter to relatives here states that he is 'more than pleased with his work and is getting along splendidly. The letter from the young sailor boy follows: Great Lakes, 111., April 16. Dear Folks: Arrived here at twelve midnight Saturday. Was examined the first thing the following morning and put in uniform. On Sunday I was transferred to the main camp. This Monday morning we drilled from 9-o’clock to 1 o'clock p. m. and from 2 to 5 this afternoon. Expect to leave here some time this week before Sunday, but as yet lam not able to state where I will be located. Am certainly glad that I took that drill at home, for it has given me a petty office already in the company. I was in charge of the company when we went to dinner and to supper again in the evening. We have a fine company and also a fine commander, by the name of Munson, and he is a perfect gentleman. It is certainly grand up here, although quite chilly. The food is good. We have 'had rice and raisins, baked beans, Schultz bread from Chicago, coffee and tea. I have met men from all parts of the United Staes and they are a fine lot of fellows. I did not go to Newport News because they are sending all Indiana men here. Will probably go to Panama from here Saturday. I have not seen James Barber since Sunday morning, but have made new acquaintances since coming'here. The boys are all Lapr” and singing and are as joyful as can be. Have found out that I will only be required to serve until twenty-one years of age, so you see I have but little over three years to do in the service. Tell everyone I was never happier than I am right now. Every man here is the same, all sociable. Was. vaccinated Sunday. Will write more later. Do not know yet what my address will be. Will write when I leave here. Send my regards to th« boys and tell Bill Tilton he does not know what he is missing. RAYMiOMD. P. S. Please excuse the writing as I am lying on the floor writing it.