October 3, 1944
Somewhere –
Dearest Mother, Dad, & Velma;
I got two letters from you tonight so I feel pretty good. You said you had received the picture of the P-47 with the cloud background. Why don’t you have it enlarged? It should make a beautiful picture.
I am not taking very much atabrine now because at this particular place the mosquitoes are not bad at all. The main trouble now is a rash everyone has from sweating. We call it the “Guinea Crud”. Actually, it is the plain old itch – I think. I itch all over and am constantly scratching. I am in the process of painting my new ship now – it will be Sweetwater Swatter 4th. I’ll have some pictures taken when it is finished.
I am enclosing some pictures of my old ship and if you will have the negatives developed they will be much better than these prints. This is not a good place to develop films.
Got quite a bang out of the Jean Armor deal. She should have grown into a very beautiful young woman. And I like pretty women! Also very tickled to hear about Mary Beth Butler. I think she is the most faithful girl I have. Tell her I am counting on a date when I get back. Tell her to reserve me a special date. She should get a big kick out of that.
Can’t imagine what is the matter with Kat. Guess she is in one of her stubborn streaks and I know how you must feel. Too bad she is that way. Try not to let it worry you. I noticed last week you wanted my decorations in the picture I sent you. Mom, you know me better than that. What do you think I am? I may wear them a while at home but not over here.
Well, I guess that concludes the news from the present. Hope to hear from you tomorrow. Goodnight and sweet dreams.
Love, Son