The papers of Louis Wayne Tyler are divided into 2 series: Papers and Photograph.
Papers (1939-1951) contain documents largely relating to Tyler's military service during World War II. Correspondence includes many letters that he wrote to his mother while training at Camp Wolters, Texas and serving in Panama and Brazil. These letters, written by a highly educated and intelligent man, reflect his feelings about serving in the Army and particularly in Panama. Tyler was not pleased to be drafted into the Army in September 1941, but he grew more satisfied with the Army as he served. He wrote about his confusion upon the attack on Pearl Harbor and his interest in reading scholarly works to find out why Japan would attack the United States. His letters are largely filled with descriptions of lodgings, food, and local attractions. Writing from Panama, he described how soldiers in the area were sensitive about their service and the fact that they were not actively fighting enemy soldiers. He also wrote about meeting Americans in Panama, eating and going out with them. Also included in the correspondence are letters from Tyler's father, Louis J., which describe his journey to Excelsior Springs, Missouri to receive treatment for an illness. These letters mention Tyler occasionally but mainly describe the treatments offered at a hot springs in the late 1930s. Other papers in the collection include newspaper clippings cut out by Tyler's mother. Articles relating to Panama, Brazil, Janesville men and women in the service, and Tyler himself reflect her interests during the war. Also found in the series are some articles and a dedication program (1943) for the Janesville Shrine of Honor monument. Personal military papers, such as certificates and a separation record, provide details about his service. Ephemeral items include menus from holiday meals in the Army, a silver star service flag card that his mother could display, a “win the war” postage stamp, and a unique recruitment flyer for the Women's Army Corps.
Photograph (circa 1941) consists of one photograph of an unnamed “target range.” The shot, taken from an elevated position, shows the target range, as well as buildings and fields along the horizon.
