This is a compilation of research- day by day letters, journals and unit reports- that tells the story of 1LT Haines. We have let the research tell the story. We invite readers to enjoy their own path of exploration and discovery by plumbing the depths of the world of this one man’s combat experience. Discover his longing for home and the end of the war. Get acquainted with his comrades, their struggles with shelter, food and light. Reflect on their commitment to and trust in each other. Learn about day to day life on the front lines. You may see the fog of your breath in the crisp moonlight and the crunch of fresh deep snow underfoot when the temperature dips to single digits. Indulge in the pleasure of the shower and clean underwear. Enjoy the banter of combat buddies in the fox holes and cellars. Imagine fighting through the smoke of a makeshift gasoline lantern just to keep up on your letters home. Wonder, if you can, what it is like to engage in combat, risking your life and the lives of those you are charged to lead. And then consider how inadequate words are to express your respect in a letter to the family of a fallen comrade or to relate the impact of these experiences to your beloved wife- without violating operational security. Above all, appreciate 1LT Haines’s commitment, faith and love for his family, his country and his men.
