Delmar Marine on Iwo Jima.

SCHUNTER

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 8/27/2007 at 12:43:11

Jackson Sentinel, June 8, 1945:
PFC Travis Schunter In Assault Wave.
William Schunter of Delmar has received the following letter from PFC Travis Schunter, who is with the Marines at Iwo Jima:
"Dear Folks:
Just a line to let you know I made it OK without a scratch and I'm none the worse for the deal after 26 days on Iwo Jima; though it was only the mercy of God that any of us lived through those first four days. It has been that much of hell and terror. Though I'm in a safe place now, I still wake up dreaming I'm in a fox hole with the artillery and mortar bursting around me.
The papers probably tell you more than I can; besides I'd rather forget. I lost a lot of good buddies here. I was in the assault wave the first day and spent quite some time on the front lines. I have seen plenty of Japs and had the pleasure of dusting off a few. They are a dangerous enemy, nothing is too cruel or cunning for them to do. If the people at home knew, they would regard them more seriously.
I hope this finds you all well. Tell Johnny his Dad hasn't forgotten him and still loves him. I got his birthday card and valentine OK. Had a letter from the hospital while on the island. Must close now, will write more another time.
With love, Travis"