V-Mail launched 81 years ago this week.
When William H. VanZee wrote these two letters to his wife, Laura, the Victory Mail system was a well-oiled machine. It allowed millions of families around the world to stay in touch in spite of their separation.
What is V-Mail?
V-Mail was a hybrid mail system using standardized stationery and microfilm processing. The United States used this system during WWII to save space on mail while being able to send more letters.
The combined paper and envelope V-Mail system gave the letters a standard size and format. The lightweight paper resulted in faster delivery, allowing mail to be sent by airplane rather than on the slow boat.
The millions and millions of letters sent and received kept up morale throughout the war. Strong morale, both at home and on the war front, was vital to surviving WWII.
V-Mail in DC
To introduce your children to the idea, the kid-friendly National Postal Museum has an online V-Mail exhibition.
You can also see it in the WWII gallery of the “The Price of Freedom” exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
Did any of your family members send V-Mail in World War II?
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