Philippines

Dec. 31, 1944

 Dearest Mother & Dad,

             Here I am taking life very easy – guess where – yep, in the hospital.  Don’t be scared, tho. I am in for a  physical check-up.  I am in rather a run down condition from so much activity and I am having a kick-back from my old ear trouble that I had back in the States.  The Doc seems to think it’s also combat fatigue.  From the looks of things - I could be evacuated and of course, I won’t try to stop that.  In fact, I hope they do, as I am very tired of it all.

             The squadron is in very fine shape and we have a wonderful reputation over here.  You may have heard about us as the “Black Ram’ squadron.  And the P-47’s you heard about over here was my squadron and I was on every mission.  I really flew my fanny off for a spell.  I have yours and Dad’s picture with me here in the hospital and I love it very much.  It is the best picture I have seen of you and Dad.

             I got a letter from LeBecca Wills yesterday.  I was more than surprised to hear from her but I certainly appreciated it.  She wrote a very newsy letter and told me lots about everyone at home.  I know of no other girl in the world any nicer than LeBecca Wills.  She’s tops!  I also got a Xmas card from the W.R. Monroes.  Be sure and tell them for me how much I appreciated their thoughtfulness.

             Well, Mom, don’t worry about me.  I am getting along swell.  They have grounded me until they can find out what my trouble is and just between us girls I think I’ll be home pretty soon.  Don’t get your hopes too high but I have a good idea.  If I do go back, I’ll   probably be in the hospital for a while but not too long.  Be good and write often.  I’ll try to write every day if I can.

                                                                                                 Love,

                                                                                                 Son

 

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