January 8, 1944

January 8, 1944

Dear Mom & Dad: -

I just got another gob of letters yesterday & also about 8 Christmas presents. Some of the mail had traveled all over the islands trying to follow my trail. One V-mail from you was dated Oct. 5th so you can guess how much mail I must still have floatin’ around in that area.

Well, well – guess what – Nancy hasn’t forgotten me after all, I guess. She sent me a nice letter & a book for Xmas. I’ve already read the book, a very humorous satire on college life at U. of M. written by Max Shulman a graduate of there – Barefoot Boy With Check.

I also got a present – much to my surprise – from Marion Sneen. T’was a very nicely “done up” cigar box full of mixed candies. Was also surprised at receiving a flat-fifty of Luckies from Mrs. Clayte Lisy & husband. I still haven’t acquired the habit so will no doubt give them to the B.C. to help polish up the apple. Dot & Arlo sent me a book – The Herman Comedy & Nancy sent a carton of Beecham Gum & a big supply of Walnetta’s. Eh gads, am I going to be a diabetic soon! Just got a box of peanut brittle from Esther & Elmer too. Don’t know just what to do with all this candy.

This was a big day for Lt. Healy – the B.C. – he just got his “railroad tracks.” From now on he will be addressed as Captain. We’re going to have a big inspection tomorrow so we’ve been working like slaves all day. The training is getting a little more rugged now – have to get up at 6 A.M. every morning.

Was in town last weekend – went to a dance on Sat. night. Had lots of work to do in camp so didn’t stay in town over Sun. After the inspection tomorrow I’m going to take off & play a game of golf – something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time. There’s a nine hole course about 15 miles from camp.

The latest letter I have from you is dated Dec. 23rd. I see you’ve finally received my letter of Dec. 8th. Sorry, I can’t tell you how long the boat trip was; I guess that would be disclosing military info or something.

Yes my clothes are quite warm enough. The weather has warmed up considerably since I wrote that last letter.

I see Dwight didn’t waste any time in his love affair this time. Well that should just about convince Elaine that she’d better start hunting new fields to conquer. Too bad they all feel so bitter toward Dwight – don’t they realize a guy has no control over his heart?

Dot sent a Xmas card picture of Nancy. Boy, she is really getting cute, & I hardly recognized the girl, she’s grown so much!

I’m off to the Bn. Movies now so will say g’nite. Hope you’re both fine.

Your loving son, Dorance