June 2, 1943
Dear Mother, Dad, + Grandma --
Not much new since I last wrote, so I'm not sure how long this letter will run. Monday evening I had study hall and worked like a Trojan. These air corps men have so much to learn and so little background. I talked myself hoarse trying to set them straight -- and just when I thought they had it, someone would ask a question indicating they didn’t even understand what I was talking about.
Last evening we had the regular Tuesday evening Gunnery class -- with a lecture by the Colonel thrown in. We spent most of the time playing with a gadget that the kids would certainly love. It's a sort of air rifle machine gun. It fires plastic pellet propelled by air pressure. We fire at model airplanes that are pulled back and forth across the range by strings.
And tonight I'm just taking it easy -- trying to get out of the heat. It's really hot. But before I forget it -- I'll answer your letters. Thanks for the commencement programs. Quite a few of my old friends got themselves a sheepskin.
The peanuts arrived safety and were immediately devoured by the Materiel Dept. in force. They were just a little stale -- but still good.
By this time, Dad, you should have my money order. Let me know that you got it safely.
I haven’t heard anything of Herm Bower lately -- last I heard he was still in Philly. If you hear anything about him, let me know.
I haven’t heard from Charlie Bond since I've been back here. I suppose he's busy. I sent him my address and photo some time ago.
No, I'm not quite the only one in the barracks -- but I'm not really on "buddy" terms with any of the others now that Shay is no longer here. Someone will be taking his room soon, I suppose.
Our old neighbour Heistand is moving up in the world isn't he. I always liked them so much. He was by far the best the Episcopals ever had in Lewisburg.
I've seen Wells several times and we're going to have dinner together tomorrow night over on the main post. He likes his course very much.
I'm glad business is so good and that you can get some merchandise, at least, Dad. It seems to me for the past couple of years every month has been better than the same month the year before. Over a five year period it ought to be really impressive to compare totals.
Dorothy Griffith is still very lovely. And her husband is a very fine man too. He's a Mason, I discovered.
I'm so sorry to hear about Henry Herrold. Let me know how he turns out. Poor fellow always has worked too much. I don't think I ever knew anyone who took less time for relaxation and rest. He always worked at whatever he did.
Alice did tell me that she's been riding around in the chair. I do hope she's strong enough to get out now and then. It will do her good. I can hardly believe she's been sick so long and inside for so long -- and never any complaints!
Let me know the latest developments about Bud Ranck. How are the Rancks taking it?
Thank you ever so much for your letter, Dad, and for the $5. I guess I need a lecture once in while, for it does seem as though I'm not doing much to help win the war. We all feel the same way about it and even get rather discouraged now and then. But your letter cheered me up.
Love,John