The Final Letter from War – The voyage home from war aboard the USS Mount Vernon, October 1945

In a lengthy final letter from war, Sergeant Schwartz describes his departure from war-torn Europe bound for his home in America.

Letters from War – Return to the United States delayed by a broken ship propeller, September 1945

A broken down ship becomes all that's standing between Irvin Schwartz and his first visit to the United States since 1943.

Letters from War – Camp San Antonio near Reims, France, September 1945

Sergeant Schwartz writes home to inform his family and friends that he had reentered France on his way home to Pennsylvania.

Letters from War – Beginning the journey home through Germany, September 1945

Sergeant Schwartz begins his slow journey home from war-torn Germany to his hometown in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania.

Letters from War – Preparing to leave for home and a last look at war-ravaged Nuremberg, September 1945

Irvin Schwartz prepares to leave the 26th Infantry Regiment and return to the United States. He reports on recovery of Nuremberg.

Letters from War – Irvin Schwartz prepares to leave Europe from the United States, August 1945

Sergeant Schwartz announces to his friends and family that he will be leaving Europe soon and heading for home in Schuylkill County, PA.

Letters from War – Irvin Schwartz goes on vacation to the French resort city of Nice, July 1945

While on a post-war vacation on the French Riviera, Sergeant Schwartz describes the sights, the sounds, and the history of Nice, France.

A Civil War soldier learns of his brother’s death from typhoid fever – 1863

George Keiser died of typhoid fever in 1863. He was 17 and had just returned from service in the Pennsylvania militia during the Civil War.

Letters from War – Two letters written on the eve of the first anniversary of D-Day – June 1945

A year after Irvin Schwartz first experienced combat on D-Day, he reflected on the first anniversary of the important date.

The Gazette: Episode 5 – Farewell Letter

We explore the story of Pittston's volunteer aid association, refugees from southern states, and an epic rant written by a Wyoming Valley minister.