Guide to the Andrew W. Stohrer Papers, RG 247

Size:
0.5 cubic feet; 300 items.

Type of material:
Letters and military documents

Physical condition:
Good

Arrangement:
Chronological

Number of Boxes:
1 document box.

Historical or Biographical Sketch:
Andrew William Stohrer was born in Syracuse, NY, on March 8, 1906. He graduated from Syracuse University in 1928, where he majored in Political Science and was a member of the SAE fraternity. He married Bernice Roese, called Bunny, on September 9, 1932. They had no children and lived in DeWitt, New York, a village near Syracuse. Stohrer was an accountant and worked for the New York Telephone Company in Syracuse. Stohrer was a Second Lieutenant in the Army Reserve from 1928 – 1938. He was refused reappointment at that time. In October 1942, he joined the New York Guard as a private. He was appointed a First Lieutenant in the Marine Corps Reserve in November 1942. Upon his call to active duty, he was released by the New York Guard.

In the Marines, Stohrer served as an aviation ground support officer. He underwent training in Quantico, VA, and El Toro, CA. His unit, part of Marine Aircraft Group 23, was transferred to Oahu, Territory of Hawaii, then to an island aircraft base in the Pacific, presumably Midway Island, where he served as a communications officer. In December of 1944, he was transferred back to the United States, where he finished his active service at Cherry Point, NC in March of 1945. He continued in the Marine Corps reserves and eventually achieved the rank of major. After the war, Stohrer returned to work at the phone company. In 1952, he moved to Buffalo, NY, where he was the district manager of the NY Telephone accounting department. Stohrer died in Snyder, NY (a suburb of Buffalo), on September 8, 1962.

Scope and Content:
This collection consists of 266 letters, 32 military documents, and two pieces of military ephemera. The bulk of the letters were written to Stohrer’s wife, Bernice (Bunny), during the period of his active service from January 1943 through December 1944. There is a gap in the chronology from late April 1943 through mid-November 1943. At this time, Stohrer’s wife was living with him in California while they waited for him to be posted overseas. In his letters, he discusses family and friends, both at home and in the military, and describes his training, duties, and living conditions. The military documents cover the period from 1928 through 1946. They include certificates of appointment to the Army Reserves, the New York Guard, and the Marine Corps Reserve, orders from the Marine Corps to active service and to various postings, and requests by Stohrer for particular assignments. The collection also includes a photographic identification card and a metal identification tag (dogtag).

Keyword descriptors:
World War II, Aviation history, United States Marine Corps, Pacific Theater

Geographical identifiers:
Marine Corps Base, Quantico, VA; Marine Corps Air Station, Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii; [Midway Island Naval Air Facility], Pacific Theater of Operations

Item list:
Box 1

Letters, January 1943.
Letters, February 1943.
Letters, March 1943.
Letters, April 1943.
Letters, November and December 1943.
Letters, January 1944,
Letters, February 1944.
Letters, March 1944.
Letters, April 1944.
Letters, May 1944.
Letters, June 1944.
Letters, July 1944.
Letters, August 1944.
Letters, September 1944.
Letters, October 1944.
Letters, November 1944.
Letters, December 1944.
Military documents, 1928 – 1943.
Military documents, 1944 – 1946.

Folder 1:

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 5, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 6, 1943, Quantico, VA. Includes a list of uniform clothing and equipment he must buy and their prices.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 7, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 8, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 10, 1943, Quantico, VA. Mentions that his fellow officers at the training course are all about his age (late thirties).
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 11, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 12, 1943, Quantico, VA. He has been moved to new quarters. He is taking juijitsu classes as part of his training.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 13, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 15, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about his classes.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 17, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 18, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about his training course.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 19, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 20, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 21, 1943, Quantico, VA. Describes a field exercise.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 22, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 24, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 26, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 28, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 28, 1943, Quantico, VA. Second letter of same date.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 30, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about learning aerial photography.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 31, 1943, Quantico, VA.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 1, 1943, Quantico, VA. Describes officers’ customs, including social protocol for dependents.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 3, 1943, Quantico, VA. Mentions that they are not allowed to send congratulatory telegrams, so he can’t wire his brother on the occasion of his wedding.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 4, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about his training course.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 6, 1943, Quantico, VA. Description of field exercises and lecture on naval intelligence.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 7, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 10 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about his classroom. He has sent her a contraband picture of it [not included in collection], but they are not allowed to take pictures of buildings on the base.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 12, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course and field exercises.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 12, 1943, Quantico, VA. Second letter on this date. Signed “Ding”. Details about training course and the results of his midterm interview.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 14, 1943, Quantico, VA. Mentions a financial allowance from his former employer, the telephone company, that makes up the difference between his service pay and his civilian pay. Details about training course.
Enclosed with previous letter. Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), [undated], Quantico, VA. Valentine card.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 15, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Enclosed with previous letter. Lynn Stohrer (sister-in-law) to Andrew W. Stohrer, February ?, 1943, [Syracuse, NY].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 16, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 18, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 19, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course. Discusses possible assignments after he completes the course.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 21, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course and his fellow students.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 22, 1943, Quantico, VA. Signed “Ding”. Description of field exercises.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 23, 1943, Quantico, VA. He needs her to send his old ration book, so he can get the new one. Discussion about possible future assignments.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 25, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Enclosed with previous letter. Jean and Susan to Looie [sic], Washington's Birthday [February 22], 1943, DeWitt, NY.
Cliff Stohrer (brother) to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 25, 1943, Camp Shelby, MS. Discussion about the camp and his fellow servicemen.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 27, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about barracks inspection by general.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 28, 1943, Quantico, VA. Signed “Ding”.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 1, 1943, Quantico, VA. Discussion about ration books.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 2, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about work assignments. Mentions a barracks “bull session” about “hanging Negroes”, i.e., lynching.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 3, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course and about assignments.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 4, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course and field exercises.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 6, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 7, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about night raid field exercise.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 8, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 9, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 10, 1943, Quantico, VA. Description of field exercise.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 13, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about training course and assignments.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 14, 1943, Quantico, VA. Discussion of possible West Coast assignment.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 15, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 17, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about course and field exercises.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 18, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 18, 1943, Quantico, VA. Invitation and program for graduation exercises. Handwritten note from AWS on invitation.
Anne H. Pemberton to Bernice Stohrer (wife), March 28, 1943, Rochester, MN. Writer is wife of physician, presumably from the Mayo Clinic, who treated Mrs. Stohrer.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 29, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about Communications School, in which he is now enrolled.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 30, 1943, Quantico, VA. Signed “Ding”. Details about Communications School.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 31, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about Communications School.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 1, 1943, Quantico, VA. Signed “Ding”. Details about Communications School.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 2, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 4, 1943, Quantico, VA. Signed “Ding”. Details of visit to Fredericksburg, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 5, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about Communications School.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 6, 1943, Quantico, VA. Morse code alphabet and message at the end of letter.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 7, 1943, Quantico, VA. Signed “Ding”. Details about pressure chamber training. Morse code message at end of letter, decoded in pencil, presumably by recipient.
Enclosed with previous letter. Lynn Stohrer (sister-in-law) to Andrew W. Stohrer and Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), [April 2] 1943, [Columbus, GA].
Enclosed with previous letter. Cliff Stohrer (brother) to Andrew W. Stohrer, April 3, [1943], Ft. Benning, GA. Details about Army Cannon School Course. Describes process of finding his wife accommodations in town.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 8, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 9, 1943, Quantico, VA. Discussion about possible assignments.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 11, 1943, Quantico, VA. Discussion about possible assignments. Mentions that gasoline is plentiful in California and that gas coupons are good for 4 gallons each west of Ohio.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 12, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about Communications School.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 13, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about Communications School.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 14, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about Communications School. Discussion about possible West Coast assignment.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 15, 1943, Quantico, VA. Discussion about assignment interview
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 18, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 19, 1943, Quantico, VA.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 19, 1943, Quantico, VA. Second letter on this date. Details about Communications School. Mentions that male officers assigned to Women Marine units must be accompanied by their wives.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 20, 1943, Quantico, VA. Details about Communications School.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 21, 1943, Quantico, VA.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Mother and Dad [Stohrer], November 12, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Mother and Dad [Stohrer], December 13, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 14, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Moving to new quarters, with details.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 15, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Details about quarters and the various jobs he does.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 17, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Description of a discussion with classmates about their combat experiences in the Pacific.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 18, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 20, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Describes Seabees dynamiting a trench for a water pipe and blowing up a squadron shack.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 21, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 22, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Mentions high prices for goods in Hawaii.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 23, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Describes his plans for spending Christmas.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 25, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Description of his Christmas party at a friend’s house.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 26, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 28, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. He will be working at the Coding Board as of the first of the year.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 30, 1943, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Mentions the animosity of soldiers towards civilians who complain about wartime hardships. He is working at the Post Office.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 1, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Description of New Year’s Eve party.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 2, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. The Post Office has moved to new quarters and the Commander’s office has moved into the old Post Office.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 3, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Reference to the inadvisability of getting drunk at officers’ parties. Reference to crowding in quarters, with bunk beds being moved in. Part of his Post Office duties involve censoring mail.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 4, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Working at Coding Board for experience, wants to try working with radar unit and control tower also.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Uncle Herb and Aunt Della, January 4, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 6, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Bowling Bulletin he has sent her [not included in collection] is “in the nature of restricted information”.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 7, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Description of work done by Marine intelligence officers. The coral pebbles make high shoes preferable.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 8, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. The new CO for MAG 23 is expected the next day. This will be the fourth CO since August.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 9, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 10, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 12, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Description of leisure activities; he spends a lot of time bowling, playing golf and tennis, bridge, checkers, etc. He doesn’t think MacArthur would get a lot of Marine votes if he ran for President.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 14, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 14, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Second letter on this date. Discussion about animosity between military and civilian defense workers. He thinks there should be universal conscription with a central authority controlling types of work (military and civilian), wages, and hours.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 15, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 16, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Reference to “Kem Cards” (plastic playing cards). Most Navy and Marine offices have coffee machines, with coffee, toast and jam being available on shipboard 24 hours a day.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 17, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Mentions men fighting due to too much liquor consumption. Complaints about laundry service.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 18, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 19, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Mentions having watched surfers at the beach but deciding not to rent a board for himself. Description of “hichia”, a sort of daybed in Hawaiian homes that will hold 4 people.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 20, [1944], [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. He was able to buy needles at a plantation store and can get some for her if she needs them.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 21, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Cameras are now forbidden on all bases. He expects to be posted soon to a new assignment “away from the mosquito infested areas” and hopes to operate a large telephone crew and post office.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 22, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 23, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. Mentions that a lot of Hawaiian natives are stranded on the mainland. Refers to the presence of gooney birds at his expected new posting.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 24, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 27, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. He has visited the new posting and describes it as “all sand”. The location is a coral atoll, with two islands. He describes the gooney birds but says that he won’t be able to mention them by name anymore because of a station order prohibiting it.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 28, 1944, [Ewa, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii]. He is in charge of the advance group going out to the new posting. The new location is about two square miles in size. There will be no women present on the base. He says that it is not an active combat zone, that there are about two more months of cold and wind before the weather warms up and that “most of the life is underground.”
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 30, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has transferred to the new posting. He mentions that sunglasses are essential.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), January 31, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Radio reception is bad in this location. The only fresh water available is distilled sea water for drinking. Brackish water is used for washing.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 1, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. There is fresh bread available in the barracks and there are electric grills. They can’t get newspapers, but they can buy Time magazine at the PX.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 2, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 3, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The weather is cold, and he has an oil stove in his room. No photographs are permitted. Mail delivery is not occurring as it should be.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 4, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. They are wearing field shoes instead of dress shoes because the coral cuts the lighter shoes up. They need the high tops to keep out the sand. The mess cooks are “colored boys” from the Navy, and the food is good. More problems with mail delays.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 5, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 6, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of his quarters. He is setting up telephone and radar operations. He has been able to get a Jeep. Up to now, he had been using a “peanut Crosley . . . with little donut wheels”. Shutters are needed to keep out the sand during sandstorms. The men in his squadron have smuggled a dog onto the base.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 7, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He bought a coffee maker recently, then sold it to his telephone group stationed on the other island. The only newspaper they get is a one-page daily put out by the Navy.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 9, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 10, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. More mail delays. He supervises all the radio work and radio compass work. Describes how and why that’s needed.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 12, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Their CO isn’t there yet. More mail delays.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 13, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Preparing for latrine inspection. He says the reason they can’t use the ground water for drinking is its contamination by bird droppings. Refers to Japanese radio personality “Tokio Rose” [sic] and her popularity among the men. He says that her information seems good and speculates that it is being obtained by submarine surveillance.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 15, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The Rec Officer has arranged for Readers’ Digest to be sent to the base. There are no commercial establishments here. “The Navy has a tight hold on everything and we have to play politics to get things done.” Refers to stealing equipment and food from the Navy. Diary keeping is not allowed; he asks her to keep all his letters and says he is saving hers.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 16, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He can now tell her that he came to this base on board the USS Essex, accompanied by the Yorktown, and that it took four days to make the trip.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 17, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has been elected president of the barracks and is in charge of the “beer mess”, a cooperative for buying and selling beer in the barracks.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 20, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The new colonel has arrived. Servicemen can wait until after the war to file their income tax returns if they wish. Details about the “beer mess”. His dental bridge has failed (he’s had it since 1928), and the base dentist will try to fix it. Makes disparaging comments about the Army vs. the Marines, in terms of combat effectiveness.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 22, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The barracks now has a Scott radio in the large hall. They listen to Tokyo, since it’s closer to this location than San Francisco. Refers to the respect “our fliers” have for the Japanese aircraft and pilots. Officers can now get clothing free of charge. The dentist has cemented his bridge back in. He thinks that soldiers are not really interested in the upcoming Presidential election and disapproves of allowing soldiers to vote due to their lack of political knowledge.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 24, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. More mail delays. The colonel wants to replace the oil heaters in the barracks with electric ones. They’ve had a lecture on the war’s progress which includes pictures of a new amphibious truck which can go 50 mph on the highway and serve as a motor launch in rough seas.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 27, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has been playing tennis regularly with the new colonel and thinks it may help him politically. No beards are allowed, except for submariners. The beer mess is running short, with about 12 bottles a day unaccounted for.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), February 29, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Mentions changes in draft requirements.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 1, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 3, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Discussion about the Presidential election.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 3, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Second letter on this date.
Enclosed with previous letter. Banquet program, “Dinner in honor of Carl Meyer on his retirement from active telephone service”, February 8, 1914.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 5, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 7, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He and the colonel have been playing tennis against a visiting admiral. Mentions the time difference between this location and Syracuse, 8 hours with 1 hour being due to the fact that they are not on Daylight Savings Time here. This location is 1100 miles from Hawaii. He has been trying to figure out how to rate dissimilar duties to get promotions for his men.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 11, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Bad weather; the blowing sand requires the use of special goggles and high wind has blown down phone wires which then shorted out due to moisture.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 13, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. More mail delays, attributed to weather.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 15, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 16, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. There are rumors about where they will be posted after this; possibly China, Wake, Marianas, Guam, Manila.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 19, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of service by Lutheran chaplain on base. All other Christians have a single multi-denominational service. Reference to Seabees being allowed to have beards (as well as submariners). He is teaching a class in map reading for his telephone crew.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 21, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 23, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Tokyo broadcasts are talking about the Japanese attacking India, but the local intelligence officers don’t know much about it.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 26, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of the trouble a friend got into as a result of being drunk; possible court martial offense.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 28, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The mail situation is so bad, he hasn’t had a letter from her in 25 days. He is wearing out his tennis shoes.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), March 30, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The mail rate has gone up from 6 cents to 8 cents for domestic mail, but it’s still only 6 cents for servicemen and women.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 2, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Discussion of draft rejections; he thinks that able-bodied men are being wasted on desk jobs that the “rejected” men could be doing. Refers to “stretching” his 8/20 vision to 14/20 and to having a hemorrhoid operation to get into the service. He also derides exemptions for pro athletes. Mentions that the Lutheran communion service uses a common cup; he guesses that there is no danger of syphilis since there are no women on the base. One of his men had appendicitis and was operated on in the base hospital. Mentions the tension between fliers and ground officers and the inevitable rowdiness after a battle.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 4, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. One of his men had an accident after he disobeyed orders and tried to take apart a loaded shell. Describes the transportation process (last fall) from the USS Essex at Pearl Harbor to the air base where he was stationed in Hawaii [Ewa].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 6, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Visits the man who is recovering from appendectomy; the hospital is underground and all the nurses are male. There is an informal system of barbering; Navy barbers are available but inconvenient, so Marines who were barbers in civilian life are cutting hair to earn extra money. He has managed to let her know where he is (presumably through a private code) but reminds her not to disclose it until after he leaves.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 9, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 11, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has received a jury duty notice from Syracuse. Mentions having witnessed a burial at sea. Mentions a change in draft policy, to draft no men over 26 who are working in vital industries.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 13, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. There has been a telephone problem due to the Navy accidentally cutting the lines while digging a trench for an underground conduit. He has bought watches at the PX for all his telephone men and was able to obtain a different model for each of the 6 men.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 16, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. There is no malaria here, since they don’t have the type of mosquito that carries it. The water at the beach is only shallow for a short distance. Other men have been trying to spear fish. Seals can be seen in the lagoon.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 18, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 20, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has heard that his previous base is stocking up on winter equipment which he thinks indicates a possible new campaign. The doctor has told him that there has been a lot of stomach trouble due to “nervous conditions”. There is an order permitting them to wear short pants and short sleeved shirts.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 23, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Their colonel has been transferred, which makes 6 COs in the last year. The Lutheran chaplain, a Seabee, is being reassigned, so no more separate Lutheran services. Description of the farewell party he has arranged for the colonel, with the beer mess supplying the alcoholic refreshments.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 25, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The new colonel, who hasn’t yet arrived, has been in combat and was evacuated due to illness.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 27, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. There is a betting pool on when the Second Front in Europe will start. His date is June 1.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), April 29, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Lindbergh has been visiting; he ate at Stohrer’s table in the mess hall. Description of a lunch at the Commodore’s in honor of Lindbergh and a visiting general. Description of a plane crash on the runway (with pilot fatality) that occurred on Easter Sunday morning (April 9).

Andrew W. Stohrer to Mother, May 2, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Personal letters and notes are always more appreciated by servicemen than greeting cards.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 2, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He is getting 3 shaves to a razor blade. Description of a typical day for him.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 4, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Refers to civilian meat rationing being over except for roast beef and steak. The blackout has been lifted back in Hawaii.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 7, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. An operator went to sleep during his 12 to 4 watch period and may have to be court martialled. Brief explanation of watch duties and why falling asleep is so serious. The camp is almost up to strength, and the older officers may be allowed to go home.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 9, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 11, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Mentions the “Big Five” families in Hawaii who control business. The new colonel has arrived.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 14, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He gives a party for the new colonel, with the beer mess supplying the beer. After the colonel leaves, liquor is brought in and the party becomes quite rowdy.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 16, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 18, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He may have to ship his trunk home, since officers are no longer allowed to take them into combat zones. Mold is forming on his unused shoes. He may apply for training to work in the administration of a conquered country.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 21, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 23, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Blackout regulations have been relaxed; they can keep their shutters open until 11 PM.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 25, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He is now the War Ballot Officer. Today’s news mentions the raids on Wake and Marcus.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 28, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He expects the European invasion to occur this week, based on the moon and high tides. He thinks they will go in through Denmark.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 28, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Second letter on this date.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), May 30, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has heard that about one third of all war bonds are being redeemed early. Expresses anger at civilian high living. There is a regulation against having beer in the bowling alley.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 1, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 4, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 6, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 8, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Mentions that there is a lot of betting taking place on the base.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 11, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 13, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. His application for the special program on military government was turned down, due to their not taking any more Marines.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 13, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Second letter on this date. Showing of a propaganda film about Japan.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 15, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Typewritten. B-29 bombers have hit Tokyo. The Marianas have been invaded.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 15, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Second letter on this date. It is against Navy regulations to buy one’s commanding officer a gift (although the men are doing it).
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 18, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The inaction is getting to the men, who want to be in a combat area.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 20, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 23, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. News of a big sea battle with Japan.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 25, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The Marine Corps is at full strength now. Officers and men over 38 can apply for retirement.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 27, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Official order received indicating that officers over 38 can apply for inactive service.
Enclosed with previous letter: Copy of the order indicating that officers over 38 can apply for inactive service.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 27, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Second letter on this date. He is worried about what people at home will think about him if he applies for inactive service now.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 30, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), June 30, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Second letter on this date. If his application for inactive service is approved, he will have to be replaced as Voting Officer because he wouldn’t be with the unit on January 1, as required.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 2, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Refers to a mess bill (i.e., food is not provided free). Refers to Marine casualties at Saipan.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 4, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of the Independence Day celebration at the base. They now have a Marine PX. Before this, they had only a Navy store.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 6, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 7, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. There are four men putting in for inactive service. Description of voting procedures for servicemen. Many men on the base are taking classes, including day, night, and correspondence courses.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 9, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 11, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has gotten a pole erected for his telephone men to practice climbing. Mention of the GI Bill.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 13, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Mentions a bad rash between his thighs which involves his testicles. The doctors say it’s a fungus and is wide spread.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 16, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 18, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He is planning to bring home a grenade to use as a paperweight.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 20, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Refers to the 2-room garage they lived in at Laguna the previous summer. Thinks the military experience has changed him and wonders if, after the war, he should go back to his old habits.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 23, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Discussion of the discrepancies between the states’ voting regulations as they relate to servicemen voting. There is a rumor that the 38 year limit won’t demobilize enough men and that it will be lowered.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 25, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 27, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Mentions that there are no mosquitoes on the base. One of his friends has received a letter recorded on a phonograph disk.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), July 30, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 4, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. A load of mail had to be jettisoned into the ocean which may have saved some lives.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 6, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. New officers have arrived, mostly aviators. He expects ground operations jobs to be taken over by aviators as the non-aviators are rotated home. The doctor’s prescription has cleared up his itch problem.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 8, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. His clothes are wearing out; there are also problems with mold on unworn clothing.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 11, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 13, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 15, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Describes a talk with an Army Air Corps man who makes movies of various runs between locations to be used in pilot briefings. The Army man says that equipment in China is being hoarded by the Chinese for use in “the coming revolution”. Over half the men in some squadrons are too young to vote (i.e., under 21).
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 17, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The officers in the Honolulu area who have put in for retirement have been separated from their units and are “marking time” waiting for their orders back to the States.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 19, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The mail that had to be jettisoned [mentioned in August 4 letter] had been on a plane that had engine trouble. The plane had to land at sea and the men waited 6 hours for rescue. Officers get Rest and Recreation trips to Hawaii, but enlisted men don’t. Irritation with civilian complaints about “hardships”.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 20, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Word is that retirements for men stationed overseas aren’t being approved. Men may have to be transferred Stateside where they can reapply. Some of the men on the base are going out to an uninhabited island about 50 miles away to net fish. They hope to bring back 10 tons of fish to feed base personnel and will be escorted by war craft.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 22, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of the burial at sea he witnessed on April 11.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 24, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The fishing expedition has returned with 3 tons of fish.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 27, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), August 30, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 2, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He thinks that only a small number of incoming letters are examined for censorship purposes.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 7, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He is planning the party for the squadron’s one year anniversary. Bobby Riggs is on the base for a week of exhibition tennis matches.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 10, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He still has fungus infection problem but is treating it with the doctor’s prescription.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 12, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has heard that production of certain types of planes and submarines is being curtailed.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 14, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of the squadron anniversary party he has arranged.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 17, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 19, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Another fishing expedition is going out.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 21, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. A USO troupe has visited the base and gave a “clean” show.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 24, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to “Captain” (dog), September 24, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Letter written to his wife’s new puppy.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 26, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The fishing detail has returned, this time with about 8 tons of fish.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), September 28, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has arranged for his telephone men and his post office men to get Rest and Recreation leave in Hawaii.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 1, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has been made a Department Head; he is now the Buildings and Grounds Officer and the Ground Defense Officer. Description of his new duties. Their Colonel has been transferred out. The officers have a puppy in their quarters.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 3, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Reference to the “federal ballot” that allowed servicemen to vote who couldn’t get state ballots. Description of night vision test. Has been observing firing practice, since an officer must be present during firing.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 5, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of his duties as Building and Grounds Officer. The mail planes are not coming in; they may be transporting wounded from Palau. The World Series broadcasts start here at 6:30 AM local time.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 8, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Another Communications Officer has arrived, possibly Stohrer’s relief. He now has a full load as Building and Grounds Officer.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 12, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The new colonel has arrived and says Stohrer will be sent home soon. Due to the mildew problem with clothes, they are leaving electric lights burning in their closets all the time.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 15, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of a picnic he organized for his gunners as Ground Defense Officer.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 19, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The invasion of the Philippines has started. Baggage is searched on leaving the base, so it’s difficult to take home military souvenirs and liquor. Difficulty getting together socially with a man from back home who is an enlisted man, due to anti-fraternization rules.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 22, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 26, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), October 29, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 2, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. The Quartermaster Department will be relieved by November 10. There is a 14 months rule in place (i.e., after 14 months, one is rotated back Stateside).
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 5, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He expects the men in his squadron to be sent to Miramar in San Diego and then reassigned to a new station.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 9, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of “Marine Birthday” celebration.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 12, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Description of a visit to the base by Betty Hutton and a USO troupe.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 16, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations].
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 19, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. He has his orders to be transferred Stateside “as soon as [his] services can be spared” and expects to leave Friday. “All movements are secret so don’t spread the news.” He still has a little rash.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 23, 1944, [Midway Island?, Pacific Theater of Operations]. Describes farewell parties and his preparations for leaving the station.
Enclosed with previous letter: Menu from Thanksgiving Day dinner, MAG 23.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 26, 1944, [Territory of Hawaii]. He has about 200 pounds of luggage and will be limited to 55 pounds if he travels back by air.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 28, 1944, [Territory of Hawaii]. The mosquitoes are a problem in the barracks and interfere with sleep.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), November 29, 1944, [Territory of Hawaii]. He has his orders to report to San Diego. He will send his trunk by express and get a plane out.

Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 4, 1944, [Miramar, San Diego, CA]. Describes travel from Hawaii to mainland.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 7, 1944, [Miramar, San Diego, CA]. Complaints about high prices in San Diego for Christmas presents. He will have to come home by train. He is waiting for his orders.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 10, 1944, [Miramar, San Diego, CA]. Details about money related to drawing his pay and getting money for his travel expenses.
Andrew W. Stohrer to Bernice “Bunny” Stohrer (wife), December 12, 1944, [Miramar, San Diego, CA]. Still waiting for his orders so he can travel home.

Certificate of Appointment of Andrew William Stohrer as Second Lieutenant of Infantry [of Army Reserves], July 16, 1928.
Certificate of Appointment of Andrew William Stohrer as Second Lieutenant of Infantry [of Army Reserves], July 26, 1933.
[illegible] L. Bentolf, Adjutant General’s Office, to Lt. Andrew W. Stohrer, July 18, 1938, Washington, DC. Stohrer’s commission in the Army Reserves has been terminated due to expiration of the five year period of appointment and to his ineligibility for active duty or promotion.
Certificate of Appointment of Andrew William Stohrer as First Lieutenant, Marine Corps Reserves, December 3, 1942.
Acceptance by Andrew W. Stohrer of his appointment as First Lieutenant in the Marine Corps Reserves, December 12, 1942, including the Oath of Office signed by Stohrer. This document gives the date and place of Stohrer’s birth.
Certificate of Discharge of Andrew William Stohrer from the New York Guard, December 16, 1942. Photostatic copy. This document states that the reason for discharge is his Marine Corps commission. It gives his age, his occupation, and a physical description. Second page: Enlistment Record for Andrew Stohrer in the New York Guard. Record states that Stohrer enlisted, as a private, for a two year period on October 5, 1942. This document gives Stohrer’s occupation as “accountant”.
Orders for Andrew W. Stohrer to Active Duty, December 24, 1942. This document directs Stohrer to report for a physical exam in Syracuse and, if he passes, to report to the US Marine Corps Air Station in Quantico, VA for duty. This document includes a handwritten note by Stohrer that the orders were received by him on December 28, 1942.
List of officers in the 11th AVS, 19th Reserve Officers Class, January 7, 1943. This list includes Andrew W. Stohrer and indicates that he reported on January 5, 1943.
Request by Andrew W. Stohrer for statement of previous military service, January 11, 1943. This statement would enable Stohrer to get additional pay.
Confirmation to Andrew W. Stohrer that statement of military service has been sent, February 9, 1943.
Andrew W. Stohrer’s midterm markings for the period of January 13 to February 17. This document indicates Stohrer’s grades for the training classes he was taking in Quantico, VA.
Certificate of Completion of 19th Reserve Officers Class, 11th Reserve Aviation Specialists Course taken by Stohrer from January 13, 1943 to March 24, 1943. This document lists all the subjects covered in the training course.
“Change of Station” orders for Andrew W. Stohrer, April 21, 1943. This document directs Stohrer to report to the Commanding Officer of the Service Group, Marine Fleet Air, West Coast, Marine Corps Aviation Base, San Diego, CA. This document is stamped for payment for mileage for Stohrer’s travel and for that of his wife. The reverse side of this document authorizes Stohrer to make the trip by private automobile and indicates that he reported for duty on May 10, 1943. Second page: Document indicating that Andrew W. Stohrer reported for duty on May 10, 1943 and was assigned to Air Regulating Squadron Three. Document further states that there are no quarters available for married officers, thus requiring Stohrer and his wife to locate private accommodations.
“Change of Station” orders for Andrew W. Stohrer, August 18, 1943. This document directs Stohrer to proceed from MCAS, El Toro, CA, to “the Hawaiian Area” on August 28, 1943. The document indicates that, presumably for security reasons, the port of embarkation and the name of the transporting vessel will only be given orally. The document also states that dependents may not accompany personnel from this point on. It is countersigned by Stohrer to confirm receipt.
Clipped to above: Document, dated September 18, 1943, indicating that Andrew W. Stohrer reported for duty on board the USS Essex on September 14, 1943.
Clipped to above: Document indicating that Andrew W. Stohrer reported for duty at Marine Air, Hawaiian Area, on September 19, 1943, and was assigned to Marine Aircraft Group Twenty-Three. This document is countersigned by Stohrer.
Document indicating that Andrew W. Stohrer has been ordered to permanent duty “under secret or confidential orders”. This document is stamped for payment of Stohrer’s wife’s travel expenses from Laguna Beach, CA, to DeWitt, NY.
Acknowledgement by Andrew W. Stohrer of his Appointment as Captain, USMC (Temporary), October 14, 1943.
U.S. Marine Corps Identification Card: Black and white photo, presumably of Andrew W. Stohrer, but nothing filled in the blanks.

Application by Andrew W. Stohrer for assignment to the School of Military Government, May 23, 1944. Both the original of this document and a carbon copy on blue onion skin are included. Second page: endorsement by the Commanding Officer of MAG 23, May 26, 1944. Also on second page: Return of application because no further assignments of Marine Corps Officers to this school are being made, June 5, 1943.
Application by Andrew W. Stohrer for assignment to Inactive Status, Marine Corps Reserve, June 28, 1944. Both the original of this document and a carbon copy on yellow onion skin are included. Marked as Received by Commanding Officer, June 30, 1944, and by the Commandant General, July 6, 1944.
Assignment of Andrew W. Stohrer as Group Buildings and Grounds Officer and Ground Defense Officer, October 1, 1944.
Application by Andrew W. Stohrer for longevity pay due to his previous military service, October 17, 1944.
Orders for Andrew W. Stohrer to report to the 3rd. Marine Aircraft Wing, [California?], November 24, 1944. Stohrer has countersigned this, giving a date of November 22, 1944. This document has a stamp for transportation and another from the Paymaster in San Francisco for drawing of $100 Emergency Pay on December 2, 1944. Second page: Orders for Stohrer to report to the Commanding Officer of Headquarters Squadron 3, November 26, 1944, with indication that he reported on that date. There are three additional copies of the first page of these orders, without the signatures and stamps.
Orders for Andrew W. Stohrer, change of station to Marine Fleet Air, West Coast, Marine Corps Air Depot, Miramar, San Diego, CA, November 28, 1944. This document is countersigned by Stohrer, November 29, 1944. Second page: San Francisco’s endorsement and transportation endorsement, December 2, 1944. Third page: Indicates that Stohrer has reported and has been assigned to Headquarters Squadron, Personnel Group, and has been assigned quarters.
Orders for Andrew W. Stohrer, change of station to Cherry Point, NC. He is allowed 30 days delay to visit his family and is authorized to take commercial or private transportation, December 15, 1944. The reverse side: Dispossession of Miramar quarters upon delivery of these orders, countersignature indicating Stohrer’s receipt of these orders, his Transportation Request for train fare, and approval of the Request.
Document indicating that Andrew W. Stohrer has been detached from MMSS-9 to MAG-34, Cherry Point, NC, and assigned duty as Commanding Officer, February 10, 1045. Front and back of these orders: Rail transportation is authorized for dependents.
Working Roster for Squadron Headquarters, March 8, 1945. Includes Andrew W. Stohrer, with Job Title of Squadron Commanding Officer.
Request by Andrew W. Stohrer for release from Active Duty, March 8, 1945. Second page: Request by Andrew W. Stohrer for release from Active Duty, March 12, 1945. This is a longer version and cites his wife’s ill health. Third page: Endorsement by his Commanding Officer.
Document indicating that Andrew W. Stohrer is relieved from Active Duty, March 28, 1945. There is also a sentence directing the quartermaster to be sure that all equipment issued to him is recovered or otherwise accounted for.
Field Harris, Major General, USMC, Asst. Comm. (Air) to Andrew W. Stohrer, Washington, DC, May 26, 1945. Letter acknowledges Stohrer’s return to civilian life and praises his accomplishments during his active service.
Document confirming Andrew W. Stohrer’s discharge from active service, June 4, 1945
Clipped to above document: Document: Andrew W. Stohrer, First Lieutenant [sic] is ordered to San Diego from permanent duty [at Midway Island, presumably], November 30, 1944. This is stamped for dependent travel expenses from Syracuse, NY, to New Bern, NC. Also attached: orders for Captain Stohrer, change of station from San Diego, CA, to Cherry Point, NC, December 15, 1944. This is stamped for travel expenses. On the back, orders to stand detached from San Diego, December 16, 1944. Rail transport to North Carolina will be paid, but Stohrer must pay for upgrade to Pullman berth himself.
Clipped to above document: Document indicating that Andrew W. Stohrer has reported for duty at Cherry Point, NC, January 24, 1945. This document says that there are no quarters for occupation by officers with dependents.
C. F. Hansel to Andrew W. Stohrer, Cranford, NJ, June 12, 1945. Telling Stohrer that there will probably be the appointment of someone higher up to look out for the interests of AVS officers.
F. A. Hart, Brigadier General, USMC, Division of Reserve, to Andrew W. Stohrer, Washington, DC, January 3, 1946. Letter is a greeting, mentions plans for peacetime reserve.
Military identification tag (“dogtag”) for Andrew W. Stohrer.

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