ENPages
Page 6
Sicily, and Italy the outfit went to England to prepare for the big Day. The 325th Regt went in behind the 505 paratroop Div. the exact time he doesn't know. The out fit had many replacements all along the way, but especially after D Day it looked like a new Regt. I know he would be glad to help you on any thing he can. I consider him a lucky guy to be one of the few left out of the 82nd Airbone. Sincerely yours [crossed out] Mrs [end crossed out][inserted] Mr [end inserted] James Spiers Rt 3 Box 72 Picayune, Miss
Page 7
June 5, 1958
Mr. James Spiers Rt 3, Box 72 Picaqune, Mississippi
Dear Mr. Spiers:
A history of D-Day, June 6, 1944, to coincide with the 15th anniversary of the Normandy invasion next year is being prepared by Cornelius Ryan for publication in the Reader's Digest and in book form. It is being written with the complete cooperation and assistance of the Department of the Army and the Department of Defense. This will not be another strategic history of invasion day, but a story of the twenty-four hours of D-Day as people lived them and remembered them. For this, we can only go to the men who were there and, if they are willing, invade their memories. Having learned of the part which you played in the invasion, we hope very much that you will be interested in the project and agree to help us.
During the next few months, both in this country and in Europe, Mr. Ryan will be interviewing many of the D-Day participants who agree to contribute to the book. Very probably, he will wish to talk with you during that period. In the meantime, since we are dealing with literally hundreds of people, we have found it necessary to develop an individual file on each person who agrees to help us. Therefore, we hope that if you are interested in the project, you will complete the enclosed record and return it to me at your earliest convenience. We truly believe that these questions will serve you, as well as us, if they can help to crystallize some hazy memories and to indicate the sort of information which we are seeking.
I should be most grateful to know as soon as possible when and if you will be available for interview during the next few months. We want very much to tell the story of your unit, and in order to do that we need your personal account. We look forward eagerly to your reply.
Sincerely yours,
Frances Ward Research Department
FW:LL Enclosure
Page 8
June 5, 1958
Mrs. James Spiers Rt 3, Box 72 Picaqune Mississippi
Dear Mrs. Spiers:
Thank you so very much for your recent letter and for your interest in Cornelius Ryan's book about D-Day. I have just sent a note to your husband requesting his cooperation and assistance.
It was very kind of you to take the trouble to let us know of your husband's whereabouts. We are very grateful for your thoughtfulness.
Sincerely yours,
Frances Ward Research Department
FW:LL