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