Soldier's Last Letter
Dave Dudley · Other Songs - Dave Dudley
Written by Sgt. Henry Stewart and Ernest Tubb
When the postman delivered a letter
It filled her dear heart full of joy
But she didn't know til she read the inside
It was the last one from her darling boy.
Dear Mom, was the way that it started
I miss you so much, it went on
Mom, I didn't know, that I loved you so
But I'll prove it when this war is won.
I'm writing this down in a trench, Mom
Don't scold if it isn't so neat
You know as you did, when I was a kid
And I'd come home with mud on my feet.
The captain just gave us our orders
And Mom, we will carry them through.
I'll finish this letter the first chance I get
But now I'll just say I love you.
Then the mother's old hands began to tremble
And she fought against tears in her eyes
But they came unashamed for there was no name
And she knew that her darling had died.
That night as she knealt by her bedside
She prayed Lord above hear my plea
And protect all the sons that are fighting tonight
And dear God keep America free.
Soldier's Last Letter
Dave Dudley was a defining voice in country music, best known for his pioneering work in the trucking subgenre. While he achieved significant commercial success with anthems celebrating the life of the long-haul driver, his catalogue also included poignant narratives about service and sacrifice. Soldier's Last Letter stands as a touching example of Dudley's storytelling ability, capturing the emotional weight of wartime correspondence. The recording reflects the traditional country style that characterized much of his work during the 1960s, blending straightforward instrumentation with heartfelt vocal delivery. Alongside his more upbeat hits, this track demonstrates the artist's range in portraying the human experiences behind the wheel and beyond. It remains a respected piece within his broader discography, offering listeners a moment of reflection on duty and loss.