Nov. 8, 1943
Dearest Mother and Dad,
I am just bout all packed to go on my leave. Chase, Lytle, and myself are supposed to depart in the morning for Sydney. We will ride a transport down and back. We get seven days not counting travel time. They have a very nice set-up on leaves here but it takes quite a long time for it to get around. We are planning on a big time and I am sure we will have it.
Things have been rather interesting lately but we have made it O.K. My equipment is just the same as you saw it only painted a little differently. They are more improved too, and that helps. I guess you are beginning to hear of us a little now. Occasionally we hear it via shortwave. We often wonder what you are thinking about it. You can rely on what you hear is true because I have seen lots of it.
About Xmas, I will try to send you something from Sydney if they will let me. I surely hope so. Thelma said she was sending me some sardines, etc. Well, she floored me on that. I don’t understand. We can get all the necessities we can carry, and all kinds of canned goods. The Gov’t takes care of all that. Nevertheless, it will be appreciated.
I have lots of heavy clothes that I am thinking about sending home at the first opportunity. I have too much stuff with me. I will let you know when I do.
I am not sending any money home this time as I am using it for my leave. I will be sending some later, tho.
Everyone is in good spirits over here but can hardly wait 'til it is all over. The tide has turned in our favor but it is still a long row to hoe. It shouldn’t be too long when we really get going.
‘Bye for now. I must bathe and shave for supper. Please write soon and tell Dad & Velma to write again.
Love,
Son
P.S. I wonder if Barbara got down O.K. Give me the details!