Link to Family Tree to understand family relationships.

Today we see a 1915 postcard from Helene’s nephew, Paul Zerzawy, to his siblings in Brüx, Bohemia.

Leitmeritz, 18./XI. 2am

We are busy reviewing and outfitting the regiment. My address: Paul Zerzawy….Division of Leitmeritz, New Artillery Barracks. Robert should immediately forward the package to me. In addition, woolen socks (shirt, underwear, socks), white linen (handkerchiefs and towels) and possibly food items.

As soon as my luggage arrives from Kezewitz, I hope to be able to write a letter.

This is the earliest letter I have from 20-year old soldier Paul Zerzawy. He sent it from Litoměřice, a town near Prague, where he had been a student until quite recently (see October 16th post). It appears that he quickly learned that little was provided for soldiers and asks for clothing and food to be sent, as he realizes that he will be hungry in the cold winter to come — note the added emphasis on his request for wool socks. It’s a very short note, without even a signature, perhaps because he was writing it at 2:00 in the morning after a long day in unfamiliar surroundings.

19-year old Harry sent his first brief postcard as a G.I. to his sister which he sent from Pacific Grove, not far from San Francisco (see April 6th post). Both Paul and Harry began their new lives close to home where they got oriented and prepared for whatever was ahead of them.  

I do not know where Kezewitz was or by what name it is now known.