In 1944, a US Navy Serviceman Sent His Wife a Coconut with Their Names Carved Inside
What Happened?
In 1944, Raymond Boudet, a US Navy serviceman, mailed a coconut to his wife, Marie, with their names carved inside. The coconut symbolizes their enduring love, lasting over 50 years.
Key points
- Raymond Boudet sent a coconut to his wife Marie while stationed in Hawaii during WWII.
- The coconut had a heart pierced by an arrow with their names carved inside.
- Raymond was part of the 99th Naval Construction Battalion, known as the Seabees.
- The coconut traveled by naval ship and cost 37 cents to mail.
- Marie donated the coconut to the Smithsonian's National Postal Museum after their marriage lasted 53 years.
Key insights
- The coconut serves as a tangible reminder of love during separation.
- It reflects the creativity of servicemen in maintaining connections with loved ones.
- The enduring nature of their marriage parallels the longevity of the coconut.
Why it matters
This story highlights the unique ways love can be expressed, even during wartime.
Entities
Source
Times of India