"Carte Postale Expédiée de la zone des armées" ("Postcard Sent from the War Zone"), indicating it was mailed from the front lines.
Sender Information:
Name: Gustave Noir
Rank: Sergent
Unit Details:
Company: Cie H .R. A
Regiment: 99 Herrit al (likely a typo or specific regiment designation)
Battalion, Squadron, or Company: Secteur Postal 161
Franchise: Marked as "Franchise", indicating no postage was required for military mail.
Recipient:
Name: Monsieur J. Alleq
Profession, Street, Location: A Aujon (suggesting some information might be missing or unclear in the original text)
Message: A heartfelt condolence message dated "le 23 Septembre 1915":
"Mon cher ami. Ma femme me transmet la perte douloureuse que vous venez d'éprouver. Elle n'a pu se rendre à Aujon avec une enfant non encore sevrée et vous prie de l'excuser ainsi que moi qui ne peux que vous adresser de bien loin mes sincères condoléances et mon meilleur souvenir. Mes hommages respectueux à Mme Alled et à vous mes bien cordiales salutations."
Translation: "My dear friend. My wife informs me of the painful loss you have just experienced. She could not come to Aujon with an unweaned child and asks for your understanding, as do I, who can only send you my sincere condolences and my best regards from afar. My respectful regards to Mrs. Alled and to you my warmest greetings."
This postcard reflects the personal side of war, where soldiers, even from the front, sought to maintain connections, offer support, and share in the grief or joys of their loved ones back home. It showcases the human element of WWI, where personal correspondence was a vital lifeline.
Condition: Given its age and the conditions under which it was sent, the card shows signs of wear, including fading, postal marks, or slight damage from handling.
Historical Significance: An essential piece for collectors of WWI memorabilia, focusing on French military history, personal correspondence from the front, and the social impacts of the war on individuals and families. Provides insight into the emotional and social networks that soldiers maintained, the impact of war on civilian life, and the logistics of wartime communication.
Note: This WWI postal card is not just a piece of history; it's a poignant reminder of the personal tragedies and human connections that continued despite the backdrop of global conflict. It captures a moment of empathy, condolence, and the resilience of human relationships during one of the darkest periods of the 20th century.
