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Letters Home - Brother to Brother
I'm writing a book about the Vietnam war (conflict). It's a fictional account of various soldiers serving in the army and marines during that conflict. In portions of the book I want to include portions of letters written from the soldiers to their loved ones back home. Background: These are soldiers serving in combat. They are living in grave danger, yet are attempting to reassure and be optimistic about the future. Please include background if applicable at the end of the letter. Are you a veteran? Is this part of a real letter written home by you or others? Winning entries will be included in the book with full credit for their work. I will select up to 20 winners. I will invite selected winners to submit hand-written copies of their letters for inclusion in the print version of the book. We will negotiate a fee.
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REllyn
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No mano a mano; “Hermano a hermano”

Jesus, October 26th, 1970

¿Cómo estás, joven hermano?

Quero un favor, per favor. Yo hablo bien español pero escrebir no. Si, yo saber hermano, hermana, perro. Jesus, I know you know what I mean. I speak but don't write so I ask por ayudame. Help me, please, by translating my words into español por naestra madre.

I now write in my written tongue, Jesus. I will give you a break from my poor skill trying to write in our first language. There are many others just like you and me from California here. Also from Arizona, New Mexico, and others. Do not worry if the lottery hits your birthdate like it did mine when you will be old enough for the draft in 72 days. I know the number of days. Walking through the jungle with my extra 50 pounds in my pack allows my brain to work and my body exercise. That’s when you will have your 18th birthday.

We got a new soldier who said civilians are not supporting the war back home? And Mexican Americans, too, by the thousands in the streets of East LA? Tell nestra madre to be proud. When my year is up, I can tell you more in case you will get called up, too.

Jesus, I hope María Dolores has a fine quinceañera. Tell her, little Cesar, mami and papi I love them so much and they will be proud of me. Make them feel proud with your words,

Jesus!

Afectuosamente,

Reuben

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