April 17, 1944
New Guinea
8:45 A.M.
Dearest Mother & Dad,
Again our mail is held up and if we get any tonight we will probably get a basket full. That is the way it goes. I had much rather get a little each day than a lot at once with none in between.
I had a picture made day before yesterday with my airplane and it should be O.K. I will send it to you as soon as I get it. Possibly tomorrow. By the way, Fox Monotone took some pictures of my ship a few days ago so be on the look-out for it in the newsreels. Surely hope you see it. You might tell Mr. Rogers to let you know. He can watch for it, too.
We are getting along fine. Not much going on at the present. Guess it is the lull before the storm. Had a nice letter from Dot. Cooke the other day. I like to hear from her because her letters are really interesting. I still think she is the craziest gal I ever knew.
Capt. Wieche just told me I should be going on leave again next week. I am very glad because I am getting pretty tired of this place and the change will do me good. However, there is quite a let down when you return to the jungle after being in civilization for a week. Nevertheless, it’s worth it.
Oh, yes, Major Carpenter got his orders to go home, so he will leave possibly tomorrow. Imagine! Getting back to the States! Boy, what I wouldn’t give to be in his shoes. I would ask him to write you but he will be so excited & busy he won’t have time. If you want to get in touch with him I suggest you write his home in Bangor, Maine. You should have his address.
Mom, I wish you would send me some lightweight airmail stationery because my supply has been used. One box should be plenty.
I hope you are getting letters from me regular now. You should because I write at least every other day & sometimes more.
I have run out of news so I’ll quit and will write tomorrow if I can. Give my regards to everyone and pray that it won’t be too long before I get back home. I think of you many times each day & long for the time we will all be together.
Write often and tell me all the news.
Dad, don’t work too hard and take care of yourself.
Love, Son