This collection contains personal correspondence of William W. Billings, a native of Arkansas City (Cowley County), Kansas while serving in the U. S. Army during World War II. The collection's 242 cards and letters, dating from 1943 to 1946, consist chiefly of lengthy and descriptive letters written from Billings to his parents and sister "Bee" (Mrs. Paul E. Brown) of Arkansas City. Most of Billings' letters are handwritten, though some are typed. Enclosed with many of his letters are annotated programs from his attendance at church services and cultural events, as well as newspaper clippings. Postmarked envelopes accompany most of the letters. The collection contains several incoming letters to Billings from family and acquaintances, chiefly from Billings' mother and sister "Bee."

Approximately half of the collection's letters date from May 1943 through February 1945--written by Billings from U.S. military posts on the mainland. Billings' other letters, dating from March 1945 to January 1946, are written during his military service in Hawaii. Many of the latter are censored, with various portions clipped and missing. Billings writes of his non-combat duties in the military--of his training, his clerical and supervisory duties, social life, and events attended both on and off his military bases. His detailed letters also address the welfare and activities of his Arkansas City family members during his absence.