Feb. 4, 1944

New Guinea

 Dearest Mother, Dad, & Velma;

             Here I am again on the job after returning from my leave. As you can imagine, I had a marvelous time.  I took in everything possible and really made good use of my time down there.

             I met a very nice girl and had several dates with here, which certainly did help my morale.  It is really wonderful to see a nice, pretty young girl after living where we do and never seeing anyone.

             We went to lots of the nightclubs, shows, stage shows, dinners, and really had a good time.  She was very interesting and I enjoyed her company lots.

             I wrote you twice during my weeks’ leave and sent you a package of yarn that I hope is useful to you.  Be sure and let me know if you like it and if you have that kind in the States.

             When I got here yesterday I had all kinds of mail waiting for me.  Boy, was I glad I had lots of fun reading it, too.  I see you had a pretty nice Xmas.  Gosh, I wish I could have helped you celebrate.  At least we can look forward to some future celebrations, and brother, I mean celebrate.  I think when I get home I’ll stay drunk for two weeks solid.  I’ll be so happy, but you and dad will have to get drunk with me.

             Everything seems to be just like I left it. They had a fight yesterday just before I got back and bagged five with no loss which is not bad at all.

             I bought a short-wave radio in Sydney that will be worth its’ weight in gold.  I paid 30 pounds for it (or in Texas money - $100.00).  An extremely high price but worth it to us.

             Had a letter from Dorothy Cooke that was very newsie and very typical of her.  I get a big kick out of her letters.

             Well, Mom, I feel fine after my go ‘round with Dengue fever and my leave.  (Capt. Carpenter is in the hospital now with it.) Please try not to worry about me for I am in good shape.  Be sure to watch my address for changes for I think there will be a change. We are fast workers.

             Mrs. Brookshire’s brother (or whatever he is), is in a squadron located next to mine.  We work together all the time.  As yet I haven’t met him but will look him up the first opportunity.

             I haven’t received the house shoes yet but I hope it won’t be long.

            Give all my love to everyone and please don’t worry about me.

                                                                                                 All my love,

                                                                                                 Son

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