January 26, ‘44
Australia
Dearest Mother and Dad,
I guess you are really surprised to see I am on leave again. We are getting them more often now and it really does help us. We came down by airlines and you can imagine how long a trip it is. Surely is tiresome but well worth the trip.
I am enclosing some pictures that I think you will like and I’ll try to have some more coming along. What do you think of them?
I had a nice go ‘round with Dengue Fever last week. It is caused by mosquitoes but it is pretty bad business. Nothing serious but a very high fever and aches & pains!
We have been pretty busy lately but that is always the way over here. Surely will be glad when all this mess is over.
I will wire you today if I possibly can so you will know why you haven’t heard lately.
I am taking all the sights of the “Big City” again. It is very American and the people are very nice to Americans. We can have just about anything we want over here.
The main thing I like while on leave are the meals. Believe me I eat myself to death. We have such terrible food in camp & this down here is so good.
Can you imagine eating steak & eggs and French fried potatoes for breakfast every day? That is the common breakfast for Australians.
Well, Mother Dear, this is all for today. I’ll write again tomorrow so you can keep up with me. I think I’ll take in a show this afternoon.
Dad, take everything easy and don’t work too hard. As soon as I get my Jap rifle packed I’ll send it to you. It is in good shape and I am sure you will like it. It is .25 caliber. Please write soon!
Love,
Son