March 5, 2014
Dear Mrs. Madigan,
If this letter has reached you in error then I apologize for the inconvenience.
Enclosed is a copy of a postcard that I believe was sent by you on January 24 , 1945. It concerns the announcement of the capture of my father, John Popa, by the Germans during World War II. Although the last name was misspelled as “Topa” instead of “Popa”, the card did reach my father’s family and was a great comfort to them. My father passed away in 1999, but he left the entire record of his imprisonment in Germany. Your card, and another one like it which was sent by a man in Canada, are a treasured possession. I wish to thank you for what was a very valuable service rendered by a 15-year-old girl.
I hope this letter finds you in good health and that your brothers survived the war. It is amazing to me how involved all the American people were in that war whether in the armed forces or at home. I pray the Lord bless you and your family and I thank you again for your very kind consideration during that difficult time.
Sincerely
Mike Popa
The original post card mailed by Theresa reads as follows:
Jan. 24, 1945
Dear Mrs. Topa,
I just had to write to tell you about John Topa. He is now a prisoner of war in Germany according to German radio broadcast I heard tonight. I know you will be happy to know he is alright. His very sweet message read as follows: “Dear Mom, I’m still in good health and spirit. Hope to be home soon. All my love.”
I am 15 yrs. old and live in northern Maine. I would deeply appreciate any answer from you. I hope and pray your loved one returns to you safely after this war. May he be in safety until then. I have a brother in the So. Pacific and another is still in the States. So we know how it is to be separated from ones who are so dear to us. God Bless You Goodnight
Theresa LeVasseur
Editor’s note: The previous reflects the most recent correspondence Theresa Madigan has received from her days as a prolific, patriotic teenager who sent postcards to soldiers’ families across the country.
