WWII DIARIES: Fragments and memories during a wartime childhood

I was born in 1939, in Wapakoneta, Ohio, so my memories of WWII are a myriad of one-liners rather than a particular story. Memories such as:

A picture of me (see picture) standing in the snow, modeling my Christmas present, a military uniform, circa 1944.

The neighborhood air raid warden, with his soup bowl-like helmet, making his rounds during blackouts.

Listening to H.V. Kaltenborn, with his distinctive delivery, giving war reports on the radio in our darkened living room.

German POWs, wearing gray clothing, in the back of an open truck, passing our home on their way to work at a local canning factory.

Standing in line outside a grocery store to get a piece of bubble gum that was rationed due the limited supply of sugar.

Seeing gas ration coupons in the family car.

My uncle, on military leave, knocking at our front door, wearing his army uniform.

Church bells ringing, and factory whistles blowing on VE Day.

My mother being upset when a care package she sent to relatives in Germany was returned with a note saying they wouldn’t accept something from someone who was bombing them.

A young man who returned from the war with an artificial eye and received the Purple Heart. He vacationed with us and worked with my dad. I read that this man recently celebrated his 90th birthday. It would be interesting to hear his WWII memories.

Don Elsass lives in New Bern.