First of all, I’d better introduce myself. My name is Clayton Ronsberg. Buddie Potter asked me if I cared to write to a very pretty girl, so naturally, I accepted the offer. I hope you won’t object to this bold introduction, but I didn’t really know how else I would write a first letter to someone I didn’t know. Hoping to hear from you soon…
In 1942, 16-year-old Margaret Alexander began writing letters to Clayton Ronsberg, better known as “Rons,” a U.S. Navy sailor. About two years into their correspondence, Rons visited the small town of Old Tappan, New Jersey, to propose to Margaret. They remained engaged while Rons was at sea and married after World War II ended. They were married for sixty years.
Pen-Pal Romance is a true story that details the persistent love that developed over the course of two young adults’ written correspondence during the Second World War. The book shows not only Rons’ developing fondness for Margaret but also his love of country. Shared now by the woman who fell for Rons, and misses him dearly, this is a collection of letters that proves true love does exist—and thrives even in the darkest of times.
