Aug. 31, 1943
In New Guinea
Dearest Mother and Dad,
I got a Nolan County News today dated July 1st and I know every column and ad by heart. Boy, oh boy, that paper was just like a visit home.
I am still getting along fine and you shouldn’t have any worry about me.
There is very little news from this end today. This is a very dull place at times and we have nothing but open-air movies for recreation. They are worth their weight in gold, too. We have a picture show machine about like the one I.H.C. has and we have regular newsreels, and features to run thru it. Some of the shows I have seen but I always see them again.
How much money do I have saved now? Do you think I should invest in War Bonds? Do what you think is best. How is my car getting along. I hope it is still running O.K. Also, how is my shot-gun and target getting along?
I wish I had nearly all my clothes at home because over here the weather is ruining them. Looks like I’ll have to have all new stuff when I get back to the States. My shoes mildew, and I must saddle soap them every other day or they will turn green.
We have just about completed our Officers’ Club where we can hang out in the evenings. I’ll take some pictures of it soon and send them to you.
Lytle and I are getting our leave together when we go to Sydney and we should have lots of fun. At least we are counting on a good time. Sydney is a wonderful place because they have just about everything. It is more American than any other place over here. The other places, tho are entirely foreign. I don’t like them, either.
I haven’t had an ironed shirt or pants on since before I left Australia. I bet they would really feel good. And look good. I sent you a newspaper from here yesterday. Be sure and tell me what you think about it.
Well Mom, so much for tonight. Write soon and give all my friends my regards. Tell Joe Bowen hello and also Thelma. Send me some clippings and snap shots if you have any.
All my love,
Son