World War I through the Eyes of a Mid-Missourian

J H Pattrick Goes to France
hometown newspaper article

Telegram from Mother and Dad

Dear Mother and Dad
explaining decision

War Diary: with Pershing on the HMS Baltic

Letters from the Baltic

War Diary: London

War Diary: Arriving in France

Dear Mother and Dad
arriving in Paris

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Dear Mother and Dad: Arriving in Paris

Dear Mother & Dad:

. . .Then we reached Paris. And what a reception we were given upon arriving, will certainly never be forgotten by those of us who witnessed it. Our reception in London was great but it would be hard to describe the one we had here. When we first stepped on the shores of France, two bands met us, playing the Star Spangled Banner. The high officials of both the French Army and Navy were also there to meet the Expedition, together with several thousand people. However, that reception was quite enthusiastic, it had no comparison to that which we received upon reaching Paris. The people of Paris did not know of our arrival until an extra paper was issued at 5:00. We arrived at 6:30 and there was an enormous crowd to meet us at the station and they jammed and packed the streets leading from the station up town block after block. And such a reception an innovation as they gave us was certainly never to be forgotten. They waived and cheered, threw us flowers and flags, took our pictures, took our pictures and shook our hands in a manner that meant that we were welcome beyond words. Poor bleeding France, how she needs our help and how much they do appreciate already what we have done for them. It is hard to describe their welcome unless one was actually there to witness it for yourself. I was one who sat on the outside seat of one of the large vans which they had furnished and no sooner had we gotten started until the van had to stop to allow the people to get out of the way. A dozen at once would clamor to get to shake hands with you at once and throw you flowers an kisses. One girl had kissed me before I could realize what was going on. It was not a welcome for show but a real heartfelt and sincere welcome, such as I never expect to experience in my life again. . . .

It will likely not be possible for me to tell you at any time where I am located, except "Somewhere in France", but since that "somewhere" will be near the base of supplies you may rest assured it will be safe enough, so do not worry further about my safety and welfare as our Uncle Samuel has certainly treated us royally so far and besides showing us a good time, has also paid us for every minute we have been in his care. . . .

A Joint Exhibit
of the
University of Missouri
Western Historical Manuscript Collection-Columbia
and the University of Missouri-Columbia
Museum of Anthropology

Acknowledgments and World War I Links

Museum of Anthropology, 100 Swallow Hall, Columbia, MO 65211-1440

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