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