"Bill Martin's Letter to His Grandchildren", January 24, 1993

In this four page letter dated 24 January 1993, William J. Martin outlines his family history and his experiences in World War II. Martin descended from French Canadians on both sides of his family. His mother, Maria (Provencher) Martin, was the oldest of ten children. Although Martin does not provide names, both of his father’s parents were French Canadian. Bill Martin spent the first two years of his life in Saco, Montana, before moving to North Dakota. In April 1941, Martin was living in Overly, North Dakota, when he was asked to register for Selective Service. He was subsequently chosen first in the draft lottery from Bottineau County. Martin mentions that when he reported to Camp Claiborne in Louisiana, “our orders read the 164^th Infantry Regiment, but they were full up so we went across the road to the 135^th.” The 164^th was a North Dakota National Guard unit which saw combat in the Pacific Theater. Martin joined the 135^th and saw combat in North Africa. He eventually transferred to the 815th Military Police unit and served in France. He was discharged and returned home in July 1945. “Bill Martin’s Letter to his Grandchildren” was given to Dr. Virgil Benoit, who donated it to Special Collections. The original donor is unknown.