Monday
"We were supposed to take our first dive today, but went to sick bay this morning. Went in with a temperature of 100.2. Cut fever. Was put in ward E, bed 10. Before lights out I had a temp of 101.2. Wrote to Mom and Sweets.
Submarine Man's Prayer
" Oh Lord, help me to keep my big mouth shut, till I know what I am talking about."
Seems like that could be a prayer for many.
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
January 30, 1944
Sunday
"Went to muster at school today, same time that we go every morning. Came back to Barracks and wrote some to Sweet. Went to bed at 8:30 and got up just in time for chow. Came back and wrote more to Betty. Had show duty and again this evening. Wrote between duties. After the last show duty went to the show with Stone and Jay. Saw, "A Guy Named Joe," with Spenser Tracy. It was a wonderful picture. He said all I feel. Maybe I'm nuts. Or maybe it's love. I sure have to get ahold of myself and get out of this mood. God will help me.
My lungs hurt at the base. I hope nothing becomes of it.
I wrote in Betty's letter tonight, my thoughts of my love for her. Of course I can never exactly say. I doubt if anyone could. I hope she takes it all in the right way. I know she will. I love her with all my heart."
It is obvious that my Dad is love sick, but something else is working on him too.
"Went to muster at school today, same time that we go every morning. Came back to Barracks and wrote some to Sweet. Went to bed at 8:30 and got up just in time for chow. Came back and wrote more to Betty. Had show duty and again this evening. Wrote between duties. After the last show duty went to the show with Stone and Jay. Saw, "A Guy Named Joe," with Spenser Tracy. It was a wonderful picture. He said all I feel. Maybe I'm nuts. Or maybe it's love. I sure have to get ahold of myself and get out of this mood. God will help me.
My lungs hurt at the base. I hope nothing becomes of it.
I wrote in Betty's letter tonight, my thoughts of my love for her. Of course I can never exactly say. I doubt if anyone could. I hope she takes it all in the right way. I know she will. I love her with all my heart."
It is obvious that my Dad is love sick, but something else is working on him too.
Sunday, January 29, 2017
January 29, 1944
Saturday
"Got a letter from Mother and Sweets today. I had the show waiting line duty. Good deal.
I wrote to Mother and then Betty. I love them both so much.
I sure have felt low this last week. I hope I can get over it someday. I love Betty and life so much it just makes me think too much. I am so different in my thinking than most of the guys. I'm wondering sometimes which is right. But I will never change because I know I am right.
Had our first test today."
Dad was one of a kind. He was in love and loyal. He stayed devoted to his mother into adult life. He did not smoke or drink or mess around with other women. I think I got most of my morals from him.
"Got a letter from Mother and Sweets today. I had the show waiting line duty. Good deal.
I wrote to Mother and then Betty. I love them both so much.
I sure have felt low this last week. I hope I can get over it someday. I love Betty and life so much it just makes me think too much. I am so different in my thinking than most of the guys. I'm wondering sometimes which is right. But I will never change because I know I am right.
Had our first test today."
Dad was one of a kind. He was in love and loyal. He stayed devoted to his mother into adult life. He did not smoke or drink or mess around with other women. I think I got most of my morals from him.
January 28, 1944
Friday
"Got a letter from Betty today. Went to the show with Jay and saw, "The Ghost Walks Alone," with Eddie Brackin.
Jay and I talked in the Barracks for awhile after the show. Then I came back and took a good shower. It sure makes me feel good. I also go a G.I. hair cut today."
"Got a letter from Betty today. Went to the show with Jay and saw, "The Ghost Walks Alone," with Eddie Brackin.
Jay and I talked in the Barracks for awhile after the show. Then I came back and took a good shower. It sure makes me feel good. I also go a G.I. hair cut today."
Friday, January 27, 2017
January 27, 1944
Thursday
"Went to school this morning. We went aboard an "O"boat this morning. They sure are cramped up. The men in the last war sure had it tough. We also saw a British sub. Pretty junky looking, ours' are sure superior.
No dinner again today, darn it. Went to the show with Jay and saw, "Calling Doctor Death." Came back and finished answering the two letters I got from Betty. Went to mail it and stopped into night school. Stayed until 11:30. Hit the sack at 12:00."
"Went to school this morning. We went aboard an "O"boat this morning. They sure are cramped up. The men in the last war sure had it tough. We also saw a British sub. Pretty junky looking, ours' are sure superior.
No dinner again today, darn it. Went to the show with Jay and saw, "Calling Doctor Death." Came back and finished answering the two letters I got from Betty. Went to mail it and stopped into night school. Stayed until 11:30. Hit the sack at 12:00."
Thursday, January 26, 2017
January 26, 1944
Wednesday
"They are sure cramming it to us here. It's a 16 week course in 6 weeks. Couldn't eat dinner today, the line was too long.
Wrote to Mom at noon, and got a letter from Sweet. Should have gone to night school, but answered the five letters from Betty. I sure miss her. Hit the sack at 9:30."
"They are sure cramming it to us here. It's a 16 week course in 6 weeks. Couldn't eat dinner today, the line was too long.
Wrote to Mom at noon, and got a letter from Sweet. Should have gone to night school, but answered the five letters from Betty. I sure miss her. Hit the sack at 9:30."
January 25, 1944
Tuesday
"Went to a different building from school, and practiced and learned the duty of the bow plainsman and stern plainsman. Heard a speech and saw a picture on relative bearing, at the theater.
Had turkey for dinner.
I got two letters from Mother this afternoon and 4 from Betty. They were held up here I guess, because of my changing to school.
Started to chow this evening but didn't get there. Met Jay and Stone and we went too the early show and saw Kay Kyger in "Swing Fever."
Came back to the barracks and wrote a short letter to Sweet. She had trouble with a guy last week in school, she wrote. Why can't guys leave good girls alone? Sometimes I hate everybody.
It's a nice night out tonight. I would like to be out walking with Betty now. It's misty. Hit sack at 9:45 on the dot."
"Went to a different building from school, and practiced and learned the duty of the bow plainsman and stern plainsman. Heard a speech and saw a picture on relative bearing, at the theater.
Had turkey for dinner.
I got two letters from Mother this afternoon and 4 from Betty. They were held up here I guess, because of my changing to school.
Started to chow this evening but didn't get there. Met Jay and Stone and we went too the early show and saw Kay Kyger in "Swing Fever."
Came back to the barracks and wrote a short letter to Sweet. She had trouble with a guy last week in school, she wrote. Why can't guys leave good girls alone? Sometimes I hate everybody.
It's a nice night out tonight. I would like to be out walking with Betty now. It's misty. Hit sack at 9:45 on the dot."
Wednesday, January 25, 2017
January 24, 1944
Monday
"At Muster we were split up into different diving sections. I now a new assistant section leader. TM 2/c section leader. We went to the classroom in the morning. Then we went to the theater under Commander Palmer. He gave us a talk and we saw some amazing pictures.
Went to school all afternoon, and started to take up O'-boats. We have mail call the last fifteen minutes school in the afternoon. I didn't get any today due to morning again. I sure miss it. I feel a little lost without mail.
Moved to 146 after school. I'm sure sick of moving. Had a watch but chief said I wasn't needed. Still lucky. Wrote to Mother and Sweet this evening. Hit the sack at 9:30, at last in bed on time again.
"At Muster we were split up into different diving sections. I now a new assistant section leader. TM 2/c section leader. We went to the classroom in the morning. Then we went to the theater under Commander Palmer. He gave us a talk and we saw some amazing pictures.
Went to school all afternoon, and started to take up O'-boats. We have mail call the last fifteen minutes school in the afternoon. I didn't get any today due to morning again. I sure miss it. I feel a little lost without mail.
Moved to 146 after school. I'm sure sick of moving. Had a watch but chief said I wasn't needed. Still lucky. Wrote to Mother and Sweet this evening. Hit the sack at 9:30, at last in bed on time again.
Januariy 23, 1944
Sunday
"Got up at 6:00, and went to chow. Went back to bed at 8:00 and slept till 11:30. Went to chow and came back and wrote to Sweet. Went the gym with Stone, and played basket ball till 4:00. Came back and got cleaned up and took a shower.
Went with Jay and Stone to and early show and saw, "Song of Russia," with Robert Tapon. It was a wonderful picture.
I have felt pretty low all day today. I sure hope I never feel like this again. I miss Betty so much it hurts.
After the show I finished writing Betty's letter. I got the idea to call Sweet up, and rushed around getting change. Went to 3 different places to call. I finally found and empty booth. Mrs. Dugan wasn't home. I was really disappointed. Came back and finished that letter and went to bed. I hope I feel better tomorrow. I shouldn't let it get the best of me."
I do not know who Mrs. Dugan is and why dad called her. Maybe the Cuppys did not have a phone and this was a neighbor that would get Betty, my mom.
"Got up at 6:00, and went to chow. Went back to bed at 8:00 and slept till 11:30. Went to chow and came back and wrote to Sweet. Went the gym with Stone, and played basket ball till 4:00. Came back and got cleaned up and took a shower.
Went with Jay and Stone to and early show and saw, "Song of Russia," with Robert Tapon. It was a wonderful picture.
I have felt pretty low all day today. I sure hope I never feel like this again. I miss Betty so much it hurts.
After the show I finished writing Betty's letter. I got the idea to call Sweet up, and rushed around getting change. Went to 3 different places to call. I finally found and empty booth. Mrs. Dugan wasn't home. I was really disappointed. Came back and finished that letter and went to bed. I hope I feel better tomorrow. I shouldn't let it get the best of me."
I do not know who Mrs. Dugan is and why dad called her. Maybe the Cuppys did not have a phone and this was a neighbor that would get Betty, my mom.
Tuesday, January 24, 2017
January 22, 1944
Saturday
"Worked all morning.
Had inspection this afternoon. The section represents his section entirely in inspection here. The inspection officer commented on the cleanness of my uniform. It sure seemed a lot of bother to get all dressed for inspection and then not go out.
Wrote mom and Betty this evening and hit the sack early."
"Worked all morning.
Had inspection this afternoon. The section represents his section entirely in inspection here. The inspection officer commented on the cleanness of my uniform. It sure seemed a lot of bother to get all dressed for inspection and then not go out.
Wrote mom and Betty this evening and hit the sack early."
January 21, 1944
Friday
"Worked all day.
Wrote a letter to Mom at noon and then to Betty in the evening.
After working got cleaned up and shaved. Stone, Jay and Kasinosky and I went to the show, and saw "Desert Storm", it was pretty good. About French, Riffs and Kubla Kan.
Got to bed at 11:30.
Friday, January 20, 2017
January 20, 1944
Thursday
"Just worked all day today.
Wrote to Mother in the evening and to Betty.
Did some washing and got cleaned up.
Was figuring on going to bed early but Jay Kemph sat in the rec. room till 11:00 talking.
Got the devil from an M.A.A. today, for locking an ant on window; some discipline huh."
"Just worked all day today.
Wrote to Mother in the evening and to Betty.
Did some washing and got cleaned up.
Was figuring on going to bed early but Jay Kemph sat in the rec. room till 11:00 talking.
Got the devil from an M.A.A. today, for locking an ant on window; some discipline huh."
Thursday, January 19, 2017
January 19, 1944
Wednesday
"Took the diving tank test today, Two 12, Two 18, Two 50. I passed OK. The water was real warm, but we had to walk on ice barefoot to get to the elevator. It sure is queer feel that water creep up to your chin, in such a little space, and such great pressure in a little lock is that. The munsan lung was is easy to breath with. It's all some experience.
I got my pea coat back tonight, it sure is nice, just like new.
Wrote to mom and Betty this evening and then went to the show. With Jay and Stan and saw, "The Lodger." It wasn't to good, but it wasn't too bad. Got to bed about 10:30."
I have trouble, at times, making out some of Dad's words, especially with terms I am not familiar with. The word 'Two' in the first line bothers me and spell check does not like munsan lung.
When my dad talked about walking on ice to get to the elevator, I am reminded that it is winter. The diving tank must had been outside.
"Took the diving tank test today, Two 12, Two 18, Two 50. I passed OK. The water was real warm, but we had to walk on ice barefoot to get to the elevator. It sure is queer feel that water creep up to your chin, in such a little space, and such great pressure in a little lock is that. The munsan lung was is easy to breath with. It's all some experience.
I got my pea coat back tonight, it sure is nice, just like new.
Wrote to mom and Betty this evening and then went to the show. With Jay and Stan and saw, "The Lodger." It wasn't to good, but it wasn't too bad. Got to bed about 10:30."
I have trouble, at times, making out some of Dad's words, especially with terms I am not familiar with. The word 'Two' in the first line bothers me and spell check does not like munsan lung.
When my dad talked about walking on ice to get to the elevator, I am reminded that it is winter. The diving tank must had been outside.
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
January 18, 1944
Tuesday
"I went to the pressure chamber today and passed OK. After that we had a strength and swimming tests. I am classed as a first class swimmer, now as far the navy is concerned.
Saw a French Sub this afternoon. At the P.X. we saw some French P.O.s and a chief. Their uniforms sure looked strange next to ours. I sure have no kick coming. Those guys have no girl, no parents, no home, no country. All they have is the lust for revenge , and their gloomy sub and its crew, but they all seemed happy.
I wrote to Betty and Mom this evening. I got a letter from Sweet today too. Time to hit the sack."
France did not do well during the war. The were occupied by Germany. My dad felt the country that they knew was gone.
"I went to the pressure chamber today and passed OK. After that we had a strength and swimming tests. I am classed as a first class swimmer, now as far the navy is concerned.
Saw a French Sub this afternoon. At the P.X. we saw some French P.O.s and a chief. Their uniforms sure looked strange next to ours. I sure have no kick coming. Those guys have no girl, no parents, no home, no country. All they have is the lust for revenge , and their gloomy sub and its crew, but they all seemed happy.
I wrote to Betty and Mom this evening. I got a letter from Sweet today too. Time to hit the sack."
France did not do well during the war. The were occupied by Germany. My dad felt the country that they knew was gone.
January 17, 1944
Monday
"Took my pea coat to the cleaners. At least it will be cleaned. Took all morning to get paid. I drew $60.00 dollars this time. Brought $2 dollars of airmail stamps while waiting for pay. Also got a hair cut.
I got a letter from Dad and Mother, and two of Betty's letters from the Great Lakes, Written in December. She was talking how she wished I could get home on delayed letters. It hard to believe that is all gone and over with. Also got two other letters from her, the regular ones.
Went back to the examiner. He OKed me, so I guess I'm in.
Wrote to Mother and sent her $5. Wrote to Sweet, and went to the show again. Saw Betty Hutton and Eddie Brackin in "The Miracle of Morgan Creek." It was good, and showed what a mess women can get themselves into today."
My father has been through boot camp at this time. I know this training is more specialized. I find it interesting how he maintains. He does not go out to the bars and has a my mother that he is very loyal to. Dad dated Mom through high school and I am sure they had plans for the future. He reads, goes to the movies, and writes letters. It seems he has found one friend so far. My dad must be respected. He is young, but he put in leadership roles. He is determined to do his best. This is the father I know. He is kind, thoughtful, intelligent and honest. I find it interesting that he sends money to his mother. This is the Father I knew
"Took my pea coat to the cleaners. At least it will be cleaned. Took all morning to get paid. I drew $60.00 dollars this time. Brought $2 dollars of airmail stamps while waiting for pay. Also got a hair cut.
I got a letter from Dad and Mother, and two of Betty's letters from the Great Lakes, Written in December. She was talking how she wished I could get home on delayed letters. It hard to believe that is all gone and over with. Also got two other letters from her, the regular ones.
Went back to the examiner. He OKed me, so I guess I'm in.
Wrote to Mother and sent her $5. Wrote to Sweet, and went to the show again. Saw Betty Hutton and Eddie Brackin in "The Miracle of Morgan Creek." It was good, and showed what a mess women can get themselves into today."
My father has been through boot camp at this time. I know this training is more specialized. I find it interesting how he maintains. He does not go out to the bars and has a my mother that he is very loyal to. Dad dated Mom through high school and I am sure they had plans for the future. He reads, goes to the movies, and writes letters. It seems he has found one friend so far. My dad must be respected. He is young, but he put in leadership roles. He is determined to do his best. This is the father I know. He is kind, thoughtful, intelligent and honest. I find it interesting that he sends money to his mother. This is the Father I knew
Monday, January 16, 2017
January 16, 1944
Sunday
"We had duties again, but I did not have any watches to stand.
Started writing to Betty at 0800 and stopped at 1730. I wrote 13 pages.
In the afternoon I went to the show and saw, Madam Curie, with Grear Garson and Walt Pigieon. It was about Madam Curie's discovery of radium. I thought it was a wonderful picture. I expressed the way I feel about things, life, Betty, and the way to see life. Everyone laughed at it but I thought it was wonderful.
In the evening Jay wanted me to go with him, so I went to see it again. It was still good. I'm glad that I am different than most of these guys."
Dad did not seem to worry about being different and was just himself. I think I got that trait from him.
"We had duties again, but I did not have any watches to stand.
Started writing to Betty at 0800 and stopped at 1730. I wrote 13 pages.
In the afternoon I went to the show and saw, Madam Curie, with Grear Garson and Walt Pigieon. It was about Madam Curie's discovery of radium. I thought it was a wonderful picture. I expressed the way I feel about things, life, Betty, and the way to see life. Everyone laughed at it but I thought it was wonderful.
In the evening Jay wanted me to go with him, so I went to see it again. It was still good. I'm glad that I am different than most of these guys."
Dad did not seem to worry about being different and was just himself. I think I got that trait from him.
Sunday, January 15, 2017
January 15, 1944
Saturday
"Went to rifle range this morning and shot 10 rounds.
This evening I washed cloths and took and shower, shaved, and cleaned up. All dressed up and no place to go.
Our section had duty, this weekend, but I don't have any watches. Lucky. I met a guy tonight I never expected to see. Jay Buchtel. Boy this is a small world. He did not know me, but I remembered him right away.
I wrote to Mom this morning and send her $2.00. I wrote Sweet this evening, but got started so darned late, I didn't get to answer any of her letters. She will think I'm terrible. But I hope not."
My Grandfather was a foster child on the Buchtel farm. I knew Anna, their daughter. I do not know how Jay Buchtel is related.
"Went to rifle range this morning and shot 10 rounds.
This evening I washed cloths and took and shower, shaved, and cleaned up. All dressed up and no place to go.
Our section had duty, this weekend, but I don't have any watches. Lucky. I met a guy tonight I never expected to see. Jay Buchtel. Boy this is a small world. He did not know me, but I remembered him right away.
I wrote to Mom this morning and send her $2.00. I wrote Sweet this evening, but got started so darned late, I didn't get to answer any of her letters. She will think I'm terrible. But I hope not."
My Grandfather was a foster child on the Buchtel farm. I knew Anna, their daughter. I do not know how Jay Buchtel is related.
Saturday, January 14, 2017
January 14, 1944
Friday
"The usual things happened today, details and such.
I got 5 letters from Sweets today, and that's really something. It's the first mail I've received since I have been back. I sure made me feel happy. They were all so sweet. Betty is the most wonderful girl in the world. And I am the luckiest guy in the world.
I ate twice for supper tonight. I will be fat as a pig if I am not careful. I sure got my appetite back fast.
Wrote to Sweet and then I went to a show at 2030. The picture was "Cry Havoc" It was good, I was about nurses and Patton. I pray to God that I may have my chance, whether it takes all of me or not. We are first."
I am not sure what my dad is referring to I the last two sentences.
"The usual things happened today, details and such.
I got 5 letters from Sweets today, and that's really something. It's the first mail I've received since I have been back. I sure made me feel happy. They were all so sweet. Betty is the most wonderful girl in the world. And I am the luckiest guy in the world.
I ate twice for supper tonight. I will be fat as a pig if I am not careful. I sure got my appetite back fast.
Wrote to Sweet and then I went to a show at 2030. The picture was "Cry Havoc" It was good, I was about nurses and Patton. I pray to God that I may have my chance, whether it takes all of me or not. We are first."
I am not sure what my dad is referring to I the last two sentences.
Friday, January 13, 2017
January 13, 1944
Thursday
"Went on two details today. Had T-bone stead for dinner and creamed turkey for supper, some chow. Wrote a letter to Betty this evening, and one to Mom this morning. My cold is still clicking, and I'm hoarse as a fog horn.
Hit the sack at 9:15, early for once.
"Went on two details today. Had T-bone stead for dinner and creamed turkey for supper, some chow. Wrote a letter to Betty this evening, and one to Mom this morning. My cold is still clicking, and I'm hoarse as a fog horn.
Hit the sack at 9:15, early for once.
Thursday, January 12, 2017
January 12, 1944
Wednesday
"Didn't do much today. Went on working details cleaning up barracks morning and afternoon. Just supervised again.
Went to sick bay this morning and I also got another slip from Lt. to him Monday 17th. I hope my cold will be gone by then. He is a swell old fella, said he is getting to know me. When I told him my rank, he said that anyone making TM 3/c at my age ought to make a good submarine man. I hope he is right. Got my blues from cleaners and sewed another crow on undress. did a good job this time.
Wrote a letter to Sweet and then then went to the show with Stone and saw, "What a Woman" with Rosland Russel. It's 11:30 now I can't seem to sleep. The moon is shining in on my face. I seems to get me. I wish the moon wouldn't shine again until the war is over. Silly, but maybe I will be a man some day and will be able to such stuff if God stays with me."
The moon bothered my dad. Did it make him homesick or think of Betty. It is funny, but I used to look at the moon when I did not know where my son was and took comfort that he may be looking at the same moon.
"Didn't do much today. Went on working details cleaning up barracks morning and afternoon. Just supervised again.
Went to sick bay this morning and I also got another slip from Lt. to him Monday 17th. I hope my cold will be gone by then. He is a swell old fella, said he is getting to know me. When I told him my rank, he said that anyone making TM 3/c at my age ought to make a good submarine man. I hope he is right. Got my blues from cleaners and sewed another crow on undress. did a good job this time.
Wrote a letter to Sweet and then then went to the show with Stone and saw, "What a Woman" with Rosland Russel. It's 11:30 now I can't seem to sleep. The moon is shining in on my face. I seems to get me. I wish the moon wouldn't shine again until the war is over. Silly, but maybe I will be a man some day and will be able to such stuff if God stays with me."
The moon bothered my dad. Did it make him homesick or think of Betty. It is funny, but I used to look at the moon when I did not know where my son was and took comfort that he may be looking at the same moon.
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
January 11, 1944
Tuesday
"I woke up this morning with a cold in the head.
A bunch of us went and had our physical this morning. I passed everything on top. The doctor wanted to know where I was from, and said that my teeth was in good shape. He was glad to see a set of clean teeth again.
This afternoon we took a bunch of written tests, and a psychology interview.
The Lt. could not assign me to the pressure chamber till I got over this cold. He sent me to sick bay and I have to go back tomorrow.
Went to small stores and got 3 more craws, and sewed one on my undress jumper.
Wrote a letter to sweet and read and then hit the sack."
I am not sure of the word 'craws.'
"I woke up this morning with a cold in the head.
A bunch of us went and had our physical this morning. I passed everything on top. The doctor wanted to know where I was from, and said that my teeth was in good shape. He was glad to see a set of clean teeth again.
This afternoon we took a bunch of written tests, and a psychology interview.
The Lt. could not assign me to the pressure chamber till I got over this cold. He sent me to sick bay and I have to go back tomorrow.
Went to small stores and got 3 more craws, and sewed one on my undress jumper.
Wrote a letter to sweet and read and then hit the sack."
I am not sure of the word 'craws.'
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
January 10, 1944
Wednesday
"We were broken up into diving sections today, and I was made diving leader of section 142. We were then assigned new barracks, 131.
My section was assigned details all morning and afternoon, but I did not have to do much, just walk around and see that my 13 men kept working.
We moved to our new barracks at 1530 and I got everything squared away.
Didn't eat chow today but stayed in the barracks and wrote a letter to Mother and Sweet. Read a magazine until lights out.
My section had the duty today and tonight, but I didn't have to stand. This is too good to be true."
I had missed that Dad was given a leadership position at this stage. He seems happy that he is not doing the physical chores, but he has the responsibility of his group. Knowing my dad, he was even tempered and treats others with respect. I am sure he made a good leader here.
"We were broken up into diving sections today, and I was made diving leader of section 142. We were then assigned new barracks, 131.
My section was assigned details all morning and afternoon, but I did not have to do much, just walk around and see that my 13 men kept working.
We moved to our new barracks at 1530 and I got everything squared away.
Didn't eat chow today but stayed in the barracks and wrote a letter to Mother and Sweet. Read a magazine until lights out.
My section had the duty today and tonight, but I didn't have to stand. This is too good to be true."
I had missed that Dad was given a leadership position at this stage. He seems happy that he is not doing the physical chores, but he has the responsibility of his group. Knowing my dad, he was even tempered and treats others with respect. I am sure he made a good leader here.
Monday, January 9, 2017
January 9, 1944
Sunday
" Went back to bed after chow and slept until 1230.
Did a lot of reading in the afternoon and washed my whale dress jumper, it dried nice soft and clean.
I didn't take liberty today. I just stayed in and worked.
I wrote a letter to Betty in the evening and got cleaned up and shaved. Not much happened today. Everyone was out on liberty."
*********
At this point Dad is not filling pages. He is writing home, and is busy with training. My mother made her first entry under his. I am not going to post these yet. After about 6 months my dad's entries end and then I think she was given the diary, that is when she started her entries.
" Went back to bed after chow and slept until 1230.
Did a lot of reading in the afternoon and washed my whale dress jumper, it dried nice soft and clean.
I didn't take liberty today. I just stayed in and worked.
I wrote a letter to Betty in the evening and got cleaned up and shaved. Not much happened today. Everyone was out on liberty."
*********
At this point Dad is not filling pages. He is writing home, and is busy with training. My mother made her first entry under his. I am not going to post these yet. After about 6 months my dad's entries end and then I think she was given the diary, that is when she started her entries.
Sunday, January 8, 2017
January 8, 1944
Saturday
" Got our Barracks changed to building 83. It is a swell place and we have swell lockers. Had liberty but stayed in and sashed and go cleaned up. And wrote to sweets"
My father did not drink or smoke. He did not leave the base for awhile, which was why I think he had little interest going out. He also had a busy letter routine to keep up with.
" Got our Barracks changed to building 83. It is a swell place and we have swell lockers. Had liberty but stayed in and sashed and go cleaned up. And wrote to sweets"
My father did not drink or smoke. He did not leave the base for awhile, which was why I think he had little interest going out. He also had a busy letter routine to keep up with.
Saturday, January 7, 2017
January 7, 1944
Friday
"Train got into New York at 1400, at Grand Central Station. We went down 42nd Street to Broadway and Time Square. We went to the Paramount Theater and saw a Tommy Dorsy and Gene Kinpa picture. Was riding high. The Theater was Beautiful. I saw the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building. New York is swell.
Our train left for New London at 6:00 P.M., and got here at 8:45, caught a bus for the base. We got here at 10:00 and went straight to the OD shack and got straight on our papers.
We were put in Spritzes Navy, pretty tough I guess. Gave us one blanket to sleep with. Didn't sleep much, was thinking too much about Sweets and Home, just so I can keep my chin above water, I'll win this Damn war.
Il say we started the New Year right, we kissed each other."
My dad told me that there were men that became so homesick that the could eat and get out of bed. Those soldiers were released and sent home. I had to have been such a culture shock for many a young man, and you were certainly soon to be off fighting a war. It very idea had to be very sobering.
"Train got into New York at 1400, at Grand Central Station. We went down 42nd Street to Broadway and Time Square. We went to the Paramount Theater and saw a Tommy Dorsy and Gene Kinpa picture. Was riding high. The Theater was Beautiful. I saw the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building. New York is swell.
Our train left for New London at 6:00 P.M., and got here at 8:45, caught a bus for the base. We got here at 10:00 and went straight to the OD shack and got straight on our papers.
We were put in Spritzes Navy, pretty tough I guess. Gave us one blanket to sleep with. Didn't sleep much, was thinking too much about Sweets and Home, just so I can keep my chin above water, I'll win this Damn war.
Il say we started the New Year right, we kissed each other."
My dad told me that there were men that became so homesick that the could eat and get out of bed. Those soldiers were released and sent home. I had to have been such a culture shock for many a young man, and you were certainly soon to be off fighting a war. It very idea had to be very sobering.
Friday, January 6, 2017
January 6, 1944
Thursday
"Today got up at 0800 and ate breakfast, then went back to bed and slept till 1100.
Went to the ration board in the afternoon and got food and meat stamps, and 5 gal. of gasoline.
Went over and got Betty. Then we both went to the school and got Phyllis and took her to the dentist.
Came home and packed my clothes. Ha Ha helped me and she did too
We ate supper and then left for the station, and stopped by and said goodbye to Margorie.
Said goodbye to Mom and Betty and little Ha Ha
Dad went up to the train with me and wished me lots of luck. He is one swell dad. The train pulled out at 1810. Its going to be hard getting used to this."
Well this was his departure. Phyllis is Dad's little sister. I have no idea who Ha Ha is, maybe a dog?
Margorie was Dad's cousin. Later in life he found out That Margie was his half sister.
"Today got up at 0800 and ate breakfast, then went back to bed and slept till 1100.
Went to the ration board in the afternoon and got food and meat stamps, and 5 gal. of gasoline.
Went over and got Betty. Then we both went to the school and got Phyllis and took her to the dentist.
Came home and packed my clothes. Ha Ha helped me and she did too
We ate supper and then left for the station, and stopped by and said goodbye to Margorie.
Said goodbye to Mom and Betty and little Ha Ha
Dad went up to the train with me and wished me lots of luck. He is one swell dad. The train pulled out at 1810. Its going to be hard getting used to this."
Well this was his departure. Phyllis is Dad's little sister. I have no idea who Ha Ha is, maybe a dog?
Margorie was Dad's cousin. Later in life he found out That Margie was his half sister.
Thursday, January 5, 2017
January 5, 1944
Wednesday
" Got up at 0800. Dad and I went to the ration board to get my food stamps and gasoline stamps, but they were closed. We came back and got mother, and went downtown.
Dad and I went to the Station and found out about my train. I leave tomorrow at 1800. Then we went to dinner and the took Betty's watch to get the clasp fixed.
Went over to school and got Betty then drove her home. We came to our house and waited awhile and then went to get some ice cream for supper.
I took Betty home at 2200, and we rode around first, around the boulevards. We went to her house and didn't leave till 0100. She is going to be so tired. It took about 1/2 hour to say goodbye, but at last I did it, I sure hated to do it. She is sweet."
I have to admit, I got chills when I read that my father had checked on his train tickets and wrote that he was to leave tomorrow. It is hard to imagine what it was like to have lived during that time and be young people playing a key roles.
" Got up at 0800. Dad and I went to the ration board to get my food stamps and gasoline stamps, but they were closed. We came back and got mother, and went downtown.
Dad and I went to the Station and found out about my train. I leave tomorrow at 1800. Then we went to dinner and the took Betty's watch to get the clasp fixed.
Went over to school and got Betty then drove her home. We came to our house and waited awhile and then went to get some ice cream for supper.
I took Betty home at 2200, and we rode around first, around the boulevards. We went to her house and didn't leave till 0100. She is going to be so tired. It took about 1/2 hour to say goodbye, but at last I did it, I sure hated to do it. She is sweet."
I have to admit, I got chills when I read that my father had checked on his train tickets and wrote that he was to leave tomorrow. It is hard to imagine what it was like to have lived during that time and be young people playing a key roles.
Wednesday, January 4, 2017
January 4, 1944
Tuesday
Got up at 8:00 & got ready to go over to school.
Arrived at school in time to eat lunch with Betty the 4th period. Sat & talked to Paul Nieman during 7th. I walked between classes with Stinky, and waited till 9th to bring Betty home. I saw Shorty and a lot of the teachers. Talked to Shorty a long time, he told me how swell Betty was, &am how much he liked her. He gave a little advise and stuff. For he was in the last war. He is a swell guy.
Took Betty home & stopped at the Drug Store again.
Came home and went to Betty's at 1900. We tried to get the car and go ice skating, but Dad didn't get home soon enough. So we made fudge and just stayed home. Betty thought she was catching cold when I left. Got in at 0200.
Got up at 8:00 & got ready to go over to school.
Arrived at school in time to eat lunch with Betty the 4th period. Sat & talked to Paul Nieman during 7th. I walked between classes with Stinky, and waited till 9th to bring Betty home. I saw Shorty and a lot of the teachers. Talked to Shorty a long time, he told me how swell Betty was, &am how much he liked her. He gave a little advise and stuff. For he was in the last war. He is a swell guy.
Took Betty home & stopped at the Drug Store again.
Came home and went to Betty's at 1900. We tried to get the car and go ice skating, but Dad didn't get home soon enough. So we made fudge and just stayed home. Betty thought she was catching cold when I left. Got in at 0200.
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
Januarly 3
My day was obviously in love. Dad was dreaming of Mom taking his name. I am not sure they are engaged at this time. Mom was still in high school.
"Got up at 7:30 a.m., and ate breakfast with Dad. Went back to bed at 8:00 & slept till 1300. Was going downtown but slept too late.
Got dressed and went to school to meet Betty. We walked home from school & had a chocolate Soda on the way. We got home and untrimmed the Christmas Tree.
We ate a nice supper and then went down to the Indian & saw "Destination Toko" All about a sub going to Toko!! harbor, it was a swell picture.
Came back to Betty's house & had cake and milk.
Left at 12:00 so she could get a little sleep. She is sweet."
Monday, January 2, 2017
January 2
Sunday
"Today is Sunday & I got up at 11:45a.m. Went after Betty at 12:30. We both came back to the house and had a swell dinner. Mother can sure cook for a king.
Doodie and Vera where here for dinner, but had to leave to see Uncle Homer. about 3:00.
Mother fixed my jumper this afternoon, tightening and shortening it. It fits now.
We all sat around listening to the radio and talking, all afternoon. Ate supper and Betty and I did the dishes. We all played cards the rest of the evening, laughing and joking. I believe I had laughed more this evening than I had for a long time. They made me forget everything, war and all. Dad came home and we stopped and talked till he ate his supper.
I took Betty home at 10:00. Got home at 11:30. She is sweet."
Charlie, Doodie and Vera are cousins of Dad. Charlie played the clarinet in a band. When I was in 5th grade my dad suggested that I learned to play the clarinet. Which I did until high school. I then quit the band to take art.
Noel Bell, my grandfather was a train engineer. He was gone for days at a time driving freight trains all over the country.
"Today is Sunday & I got up at 11:45a.m. Went after Betty at 12:30. We both came back to the house and had a swell dinner. Mother can sure cook for a king.
Doodie and Vera where here for dinner, but had to leave to see Uncle Homer. about 3:00.
Mother fixed my jumper this afternoon, tightening and shortening it. It fits now.
We all sat around listening to the radio and talking, all afternoon. Ate supper and Betty and I did the dishes. We all played cards the rest of the evening, laughing and joking. I believe I had laughed more this evening than I had for a long time. They made me forget everything, war and all. Dad came home and we stopped and talked till he ate his supper.
I took Betty home at 10:00. Got home at 11:30. She is sweet."
Charlie, Doodie and Vera are cousins of Dad. Charlie played the clarinet in a band. When I was in 5th grade my dad suggested that I learned to play the clarinet. Which I did until high school. I then quit the band to take art.
Noel Bell, my grandfather was a train engineer. He was gone for days at a time driving freight trains all over the country.
Sunday, January 1, 2017
January 1
January 1
" Happy New Year.
Got home from New Year's Eve, dance at Riveria Club at 5:30 a.m. Had a wonderful time. Charlie's band is really solid. Betty looked so pretty and sweet. We were 7 in Charlie's car and a base drum.
I got up at 10:30 a.m. today. Betty called me up. We went ice skating in the afternoon at Shirly Lake. The ice was rough, but we had a nice time. After skating I took Betty home and went home and changed clothes. Then Mother, Betty and I drove to town, and ate at the Sevile. After supper we went to the Lyric and saw, "Thousands Cheer."
After the show, Betty and I brought Mother home, then went to Betty's house and had a big piece of mince meat pie. Before leaving we had a long talk and got everything all straightened out. She is the sweetest girl in the world. Got home at 3:30 a.m. Betty is swell."
My Father was the artistic parent. I made several little drawings in his dairy
" Happy New Year.
Got home from New Year's Eve, dance at Riveria Club at 5:30 a.m. Had a wonderful time. Charlie's band is really solid. Betty looked so pretty and sweet. We were 7 in Charlie's car and a base drum.
I got up at 10:30 a.m. today. Betty called me up. We went ice skating in the afternoon at Shirly Lake. The ice was rough, but we had a nice time. After skating I took Betty home and went home and changed clothes. Then Mother, Betty and I drove to town, and ate at the Sevile. After supper we went to the Lyric and saw, "Thousands Cheer."
After the show, Betty and I brought Mother home, then went to Betty's house and had a big piece of mince meat pie. Before leaving we had a long talk and got everything all straightened out. She is the sweetest girl in the world. Got home at 3:30 a.m. Betty is swell."
My Father was the artistic parent. I made several little drawings in his dairy
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