Field Service Postcard | Learn | Canadian War Museum

A postcard with pre-printed phrases, some of which have been crossed out by hand

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Field service postcard sent by Corporal Albert Dudley Hitchcox to his sister Bertha Hitchcox while he was on active duty during the First World War.

This is an example of a form-style postcard with pre-printed sentences, known informally by the soldiers as a ‘whiz bang’ after the German shells that seemed to arrive with no warning. They provided an easy way for soldiers to keep in touch with loved ones. Writers scratched out phrases that were not applicable and were warned that any additional information would result in the card’s destruction by military censors.

Date 10 September 1916
Associated Persons
- Corporal Albert Dudley Hitchcox
- Bertha Hitchcox
Institution Canadian War Museum
Collection George Metcalf Archival Collection
Object No. 20060194-002
Materials Ink on paper

Field Service Postcard transcript

NOTHING is to be written on this side except the date and signature of the sender. Sentences not required may be erased. If anything else is added the post card will be destroyed.

I am quite well.

I have been admitted into hospital
sick
wounded
and am going on well.
and hope to be discharged soon.

I am being sent down to the base.
I have received your
letter dated ______
telegram [dated] ______
parcel [dated] _____

Letter follows at first opportunity.

I have received no letter from you
lately.
for a long time.

Signature only.
Date: September 10, 1916

[Postage must be prepaid on any letter or post card addressed to the sender of this card.]
Wt. W3497-293 2,250m. 3/16 J.J.K & Co. Ltd.

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Field Service Postcard transcript