The Uncensored Letters of a Canteen Girl

by Katharine Duncan Morse

"The Uncensored Letters of a Canteen Girl" by Katharine Duncan Morse is a collection of personal letters written during World War I. It was likely penned in the early 20th century as Morse details her experiences serving in France with the American Expeditionary Forces. The letters provide insights into her daily life as she interacts with soldiers and French civilians, capturing both the challenges and lighter moments of war. The opening of the work paints a vivid picture of the author's arrival in Bourmont, France, where she begins her duties at a canteen. She describes her surroundings, including her living arrangements with the Chaput family and her observations of the local villagers and soldiers. As she settles into her role, Morse shares her thoughts on the young soldiers, their personalities, and the humorous incidents she encounters, conveying a blend of warmth, vulnerability, and resilience amidst the backdrop of war. This introduction sets the stage for an engaging account of her unique perspective on life as a canteen worker during a tumultuous time in history.