Penpal friendship ‘lasts 61 years’

Those searching for an army penpal might find they meet somebody they will stay in touch with for many years.

This was the case for Louis Grosse from Canberra, Australia and Fran Huling, from Iowa, US, the Gold Coast Bulletin explains.

It began back in 1950 when Ms Gross received her first letter from her correspondent.

And the duo have been penpals ever since, using written communication as a means of sparking up a friendship that has lasted 61 years and may well continue for many more.

Sea mail, air mail, phone and email have been used to allow them to keep in touch, although the duo are now considering following technological advances by using Skype.

This means of communication may be ideal for penpals from different countries, as it allows them to talk via an internet connection, which often ends up being cheaper than using a telephone across two nations.

Posted by Samantha Thompson