Check out this postcard written in 1942 by a World War II vet stationed in Miami Beach to his mother, from MDPL’s Archives Collection.

“Dear Mother, Notice arrow in picture, that’s where I live. It’s a lovely location although the walk up five flights to get to room doesn’t add to glamor. Getting used to minor difficulties however. The Sands, New Yorker, and Georgian barrack men, raw recruits like myself. Most of the large hotels have been requisitioned by gov’t. Wish you were here to bask on the sun-drenched sand.  Only trouble? No really nice girls to meet down here. Life would be less arduous with a couple around. Write to me, Paulie”