June 13, 1944
June 13, 1944
Dear Shirl,
Hey, I got a hundred in of all things Naval Identification. I know the weight, general outline, guns and size of every class battleship and cruiser in the fleet. Yipe, what I won't do for a commission. We wind up our classes here next week and then we just sit and wait till gunnery school opens. I'd much rather be over there fighting than be over here waiting. Oh, what the hell, he also serves etc. etc.
I'm sure glad that everything is patched up at home. Let's hope that Ed stays on the ball for awhile.
I'll keep my fingers crossed for your raise. There's nothing like having a gal with a bankroll. Save your money and after the war I'll sell you an interest in "Konen Enterprises".
Montgomery is quite an historical town. I was at the spot where Jeff Davis sent the O.K. to Gen. Bouregard to shell Fort Sumptner and start the Civil War. I also stood on the old capital Balcony where Davis was inaugurated as first president of the Confederacy. The place is rancid with ghosts of Rebel Generals and statesmen. I don't think these people even heard of Washington, Lincoln, or even Franklin D. down here. Lee and Davis are the two glamor boys. Bah, I don't like the south. They're still at war with the North.
Don't let your job get you down. Be proud that no matter how tough it is that you can take it. That's what counts now, being able to take it. You've got a pretty good chin. (nice lips too)
Maxwell, all in all, has been both easier and tougher than I expected. The training was good, but I wouldn't want to go through it again. We've had a drum out for the last three nights in a row. They're still impressive, but you sure lose sleep.
I'm completely cured of being chummy with waitresses. Besides, at the prices they charge I don't feel friendly. I guess I'm getting to be a grouch.
I certainly am mixed up trying to figure out what is going to happen after the war. I can't see my way clear. I've got to start from scratch and don't even know how I'm going to do it. That's all I've been doing for eight years is starting. I wish I could get established. I'll probably still be trying to figure it out when I cash in. Bah, I depress myself.
Say hello to the folks for me. I've been in a rut for the last month so anything that doesn't sound Kosher, just pass on. I'll snap out of it. I'm stupid.
So Long
Ray