Thursday
"Today we had duty again, still gun crew. No watches to stand. Lucky. I didn't get a letter from Sweet today. That will just make two tomorrow. I got one from Mom and Clalipski in P.T. School..
Gaudette and I went aboard the U.S.S. Greer, a can that just pulled in for supplies. She is old, commissioned in 1918. That is the first surface craft that I had ever been on. She is old but is still trim and fast, and well armed. We crawled up to the crow's nest. Man is that high. I bet that would be some ride in rough weather. The crew were swell guys. Sea life is a lonely and dreary job. You could tell it from these guys too. It's some ship.
Wrote to Mom and Sweet. Washes skivvies and hit the sack.
Goodnight Sweets."
My Dad had equilibrium problems. He used to wash his bedroom windows above the garage. It made him dizzy to be on the ladder.
Thursday, March 30, 2017
March 29, 1944
"We had exercises today and ran all over the place. I got a letter from Mom and Sweet today.
Gaudette and I went to the show and saw, "Shine on Harvest Moon," with Ann Sherriden. It sure was good.
Came back and wrote to Sweet and washed Clothes. Then I hit the sack.
Betty told me about a dream she had. It was some dream. I hope someday it can come true. I love you Sweet."
Dad exercised all his life. Running was one thing he did often.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
March 28, 1944
Tuesday
"I was late for school this morning, and had to report at 6:30 this evening. But the chief just said not to be late again and shoved off.
I wrote to Mom and Betty. I got letter from Sweet today and another picture. It's good but blurred. I wonder what the one tomorrow will look like. Washed some clothes tonight. No hot water, darn it."
"I was late for school this morning, and had to report at 6:30 this evening. But the chief just said not to be late again and shoved off.
I wrote to Mom and Betty. I got letter from Sweet today and another picture. It's good but blurred. I wonder what the one tomorrow will look like. Washed some clothes tonight. No hot water, darn it."
March 27, 1944
Monday
"Changed classes today. We are on MM 14 fish now. It is sure good getting back to torpedoes. My grades for last week were 3.56. We saw a movie this afternoon. It rained tonight so we didn't have to take exercises.
Went to the show again, much against my will. Gaudette drug me to it. It was, "Hour before Dawn," and not worth a darn. I should have stayed here and wrote to Mom. I wrote to Sweet, after the show. I got three sweet letters from her today and a picture I took of her in New London. It is swell and looks like she could talk. It's sure good. I love you dearest."
"Changed classes today. We are on MM 14 fish now. It is sure good getting back to torpedoes. My grades for last week were 3.56. We saw a movie this afternoon. It rained tonight so we didn't have to take exercises.
Went to the show again, much against my will. Gaudette drug me to it. It was, "Hour before Dawn," and not worth a darn. I should have stayed here and wrote to Mom. I wrote to Sweet, after the show. I got three sweet letters from her today and a picture I took of her in New London. It is swell and looks like she could talk. It's sure good. I love you dearest."
Sunday, March 26, 2017
March 26, 1944
Saturday
"We had our weekly test this afternoon. I think I did O.K. We had movies all morning.
We had lock inspection for neatness this afternoon. After inspection Gaudette and I went up to the lake behind the barracks. We climbed all over the cliffs and just got the lay of the land. It was sure beautiful up there. Moss covered rock, and ferns and pine trees.
Went to the show and saw, "Nancy Way." It was at the Great Lakes. It sure brought back a lot of things. Wrote to Sweet after the show and hit the sack. I got two letters from Betty today. Ho Ho."
"We had our weekly test this afternoon. I think I did O.K. We had movies all morning.
We had lock inspection for neatness this afternoon. After inspection Gaudette and I went up to the lake behind the barracks. We climbed all over the cliffs and just got the lay of the land. It was sure beautiful up there. Moss covered rock, and ferns and pine trees.
Went to the show and saw, "Nancy Way." It was at the Great Lakes. It sure brought back a lot of things. Wrote to Sweet after the show and hit the sack. I got two letters from Betty today. Ho Ho."
March 25, 1944
Friday
"We had a locker inspection by commander Palmer. $55 was stolen last night at the gym lockers.
I wrote to Mom, dad and Sweet. Gaudette and I went to the canteen and got a sundae. Hit the sack early."
"We had a locker inspection by commander Palmer. $55 was stolen last night at the gym lockers.
I wrote to Mom, dad and Sweet. Gaudette and I went to the canteen and got a sundae. Hit the sack early."
Friday, March 24, 2017
March 23, 1944
Thursday
"Happy birthday Sweet.
We had 50 cal. practice again today. I went to sleep and dreamed right in the middle of it.
Went to the show this evening and saw, "Coner Girl," with Reta Hayworth.
It is really raining out tonight. I got Betty's letter that I wrote pretty wet.
Well today is Betty's 18th Birthday. She is of age now. She is so Sweet."
Back then girls could get married without parental permission at 18. Men had to be 21. I Know a letter was needed for Dad to marry her after the war. If I am doing my math right, Dad was only 18, to turn 19 in August. They were so young to have the war on their shoulders.
"Happy birthday Sweet.
We had 50 cal. practice again today. I went to sleep and dreamed right in the middle of it.
Went to the show this evening and saw, "Coner Girl," with Reta Hayworth.
It is really raining out tonight. I got Betty's letter that I wrote pretty wet.
Well today is Betty's 18th Birthday. She is of age now. She is so Sweet."
Back then girls could get married without parental permission at 18. Men had to be 21. I Know a letter was needed for Dad to marry her after the war. If I am doing my math right, Dad was only 18, to turn 19 in August. They were so young to have the war on their shoulders.
March 22, 1944
Wednesday
"We had loading drill today of a 40 m.m. Some job and Lord the noise. Things are really clicking now. I sure realize there is a war going on.
We had duty today. I'm lucky again. I'm to stand by, man a 50 cal. in case of air raid, or black out.
I got two letters from Sweet today. I wrote to Betty, and started a letter to Dad. I just hope that Mom does not read the letter. And I hope he will understand all the stuff I said."
"We had loading drill today of a 40 m.m. Some job and Lord the noise. Things are really clicking now. I sure realize there is a war going on.
We had duty today. I'm lucky again. I'm to stand by, man a 50 cal. in case of air raid, or black out.
I got two letters from Sweet today. I wrote to Betty, and started a letter to Dad. I just hope that Mom does not read the letter. And I hope he will understand all the stuff I said."
Thursday, March 23, 2017
March 21, 1944
Tuesday
"The snow is really deep this morning.
We had 50 cal. machine gun practice This morning. It was really something. The hardest part is finding the target with the tracers. We were firing at aircraft. They sure move fast. It's going to be hard being a good gunner. We got paid today and I went to the post office and got a $40.00 money order.
After chow Gaudelte and I wrote letters. I got a letter from Mom and Sweet and answered them. I mailed them. Washed clothes till 10:45. Hit the sack."
"The snow is really deep this morning.
We had 50 cal. machine gun practice This morning. It was really something. The hardest part is finding the target with the tracers. We were firing at aircraft. They sure move fast. It's going to be hard being a good gunner. We got paid today and I went to the post office and got a $40.00 money order.
After chow Gaudelte and I wrote letters. I got a letter from Mom and Sweet and answered them. I mailed them. Washed clothes till 10:45. Hit the sack."
March 20, 1944
Wednesday
"It sure was snowing this morning.
We started advance school today. We are on guns this week. 45 cal. pistol, 50 cal. and 20 M.M. aircraft guns. Thompson submarine gun, Garand rifle, Springfield and carbine rifles. It looks like I am going to be a gunner. I ain't kicking and I ain't happy about it. A 20 M.M. on a sub surface battle station is pretty rough. That just makes one more count against me. But the better the gunner the better his chance. So a good gunner I'll be. We changed barracks again. I'm in 147 now.
Stone and I went to the show and saw, "See here Private Hargrove." It was good. Came back and answered a letter from Sweet."
Dad's Submarine sank several enemy ships. He was a torpedo man with his bunk over a torpedo. In one of his last years he told me that he had killed only on man face to face. A sub had come up next to them. A sailor came out facing him with his gun pointed. Dad said he had cut the sailor in two with fire. The memory bothered him, and he had remembered this when much of his memory had slipped away. This was the only time he talked about the incident.
My Dad was seasick when on the surface, so he tried to pull duty above board as often as possible. He had no problems when they were submerged.
"It sure was snowing this morning.
We started advance school today. We are on guns this week. 45 cal. pistol, 50 cal. and 20 M.M. aircraft guns. Thompson submarine gun, Garand rifle, Springfield and carbine rifles. It looks like I am going to be a gunner. I ain't kicking and I ain't happy about it. A 20 M.M. on a sub surface battle station is pretty rough. That just makes one more count against me. But the better the gunner the better his chance. So a good gunner I'll be. We changed barracks again. I'm in 147 now.
Stone and I went to the show and saw, "See here Private Hargrove." It was good. Came back and answered a letter from Sweet."
Dad's Submarine sank several enemy ships. He was a torpedo man with his bunk over a torpedo. In one of his last years he told me that he had killed only on man face to face. A sub had come up next to them. A sailor came out facing him with his gun pointed. Dad said he had cut the sailor in two with fire. The memory bothered him, and he had remembered this when much of his memory had slipped away. This was the only time he talked about the incident.
My Dad was seasick when on the surface, so he tried to pull duty above board as often as possible. He had no problems when they were submerged.
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
March 19, 1944
Sunday
"I had to get up at 6:00 as usual, but went back to bed at 8:00 and slept till noon. Then got up and went to chow. After chow I wrote a letter to Mom and started one to Sweet. Washed a mess of clothes and then went to chow and a show with Jay. The show was "Spider Women," with Sherlock Holms. After the show I finished the letter to Sweet and hit the sack.
I saw a shooting star last night coming back from liberty. It was real plain and streaked about 90 degrees."
"I had to get up at 6:00 as usual, but went back to bed at 8:00 and slept till noon. Then got up and went to chow. After chow I wrote a letter to Mom and started one to Sweet. Washed a mess of clothes and then went to chow and a show with Jay. The show was "Spider Women," with Sherlock Holms. After the show I finished the letter to Sweet and hit the sack.
I saw a shooting star last night coming back from liberty. It was real plain and streaked about 90 degrees."
March 18, 1944
Saturday
"We went to school all day and saw a movie on battle wound dressing. Just before we left, Chief gave back to me my liberty pass. I was sure surprised.
After chow I got cleaned up and Mendanca and I went to New London. We got a ride in an Army jeep. Some ride. We messed around and then looked around town. I got Betty a birthday card. Then we played pool at the Y until supper. Then I wrote to Sweet and played some more pool. Went to the show and then came out and played pool until 3:00 in the morning.
It seems strange in New London without Sweet. Everything I see reminds me of something we did, or said. It sort of makes me feel sort of funny inside. I miss her so much and I love her with all my heart. I got the letter she wrote me on the train from New York to Indianapolis. I also got a letter from Dad. He wrote me a whole letter. He is some guy."
Sa
Sunday, March 19, 2017
March 17, 1944
Friday
"Today is St. Patrick's Day.
We had our final tests today and boy were they tough. We had a strength test after school today.
After chow I wrote part of a letter to Sweet. I'll mail it tomorrow. No letter today except form Aunt Ruth and Marjorie.
At 8:30 Gaudett and I went the show. Lord what a mob, to get in. We were lucky and made it. The picture was, "Up in Arms." It was a musical comedy and really good, in technicolor with Diana Shore."
"Today is St. Patrick's Day.
We had our final tests today and boy were they tough. We had a strength test after school today.
After chow I wrote part of a letter to Sweet. I'll mail it tomorrow. No letter today except form Aunt Ruth and Marjorie.
At 8:30 Gaudett and I went the show. Lord what a mob, to get in. We were lucky and made it. The picture was, "Up in Arms." It was a musical comedy and really good, in technicolor with Diana Shore."
March 16, 1944
Thursday
"We had inspection today. The officer took my liberty and gave me heck for moving at attention. I hadn't moved but no use arguing. No Graduation liberty I guess. Just so I don't have to stay in the blue room I won't mind.
I washed clothes before chow and wrote to Mom and Sweet, then went to bed. We had duty this evening but no duty for me. I'm lucky.
Got the letter that Betty wrote on the train between here and New York, then sent it from there."
"We had inspection today. The officer took my liberty and gave me heck for moving at attention. I hadn't moved but no use arguing. No Graduation liberty I guess. Just so I don't have to stay in the blue room I won't mind.
I washed clothes before chow and wrote to Mom and Sweet, then went to bed. We had duty this evening but no duty for me. I'm lucky.
Got the letter that Betty wrote on the train between here and New York, then sent it from there."
Friday, March 17, 2017
March 15, 1944
Wednesday
"We went out on the Pike again today. I had the Bow Planes, everything 4.0. The skipper made a beautiful dock this evening. I'm getting to feel more at home aboard now.
We had exercises after school hours this evening. Not so hot. I don't like the idea.
After the show I washed my jumper and cleaned out my locker.
Well they left today at 10:00. At least they said they were going too. I hope they get on their train O.K. I stopped at 10:00 and daydreamed a bit. It sort of seemed like my life was leaving. It was at that. I will see Sweet someday though.
I'm tired so I am going to hit the sack at 8:30.
I got the letter Betty wrote at the hotel. I'm not going to write tonight. She will understand. I'm going to catch up on my sleep. I love you sweetheart with all my heart."
"We went out on the Pike again today. I had the Bow Planes, everything 4.0. The skipper made a beautiful dock this evening. I'm getting to feel more at home aboard now.
We had exercises after school hours this evening. Not so hot. I don't like the idea.
After the show I washed my jumper and cleaned out my locker.
Well they left today at 10:00. At least they said they were going too. I hope they get on their train O.K. I stopped at 10:00 and daydreamed a bit. It sort of seemed like my life was leaving. It was at that. I will see Sweet someday though.
I'm tired so I am going to hit the sack at 8:30.
I got the letter Betty wrote at the hotel. I'm not going to write tonight. She will understand. I'm going to catch up on my sleep. I love you sweetheart with all my heart."
March 14, 1944
Tuesday
"We had night vision all afternoon, and just about slept all morning in class. Got into town about 5:00. Went to get a card and a box of candy and a corsage. When I got to the hotel they were waiting. Betty and I went out to a park and took a whole lot of pictures. I hope they turn out O.K.
Went back and Sweet opened her birthday presents. She seemed pleased and I am sure glad. The corsage looked pretty on her. We ate at the hotel, and then went up and got our coats and went to the show, "Girl from Alaska" and "At Dawn We Die." After the show we played cards again and Mom sewed up my coat lining. Mom fix me up a sack of apples and candy. I told Mother, "Goodbye." It was sure hard on her, me too, I'm afraid. Betty and I went out and walked some more, all over. We talked about us and everything. We came in at 1:00. I told her goodbye in the hall. It was harder this time than it ever was. We said a lot in those few minutes. I'll see her again someday. I love her with all my heart and she me. Got in bed at 2:30."
My mother's birthday is March 23. I can't even imagine how low my dad must have felt as he went back to the base.
"We had night vision all afternoon, and just about slept all morning in class. Got into town about 5:00. Went to get a card and a box of candy and a corsage. When I got to the hotel they were waiting. Betty and I went out to a park and took a whole lot of pictures. I hope they turn out O.K.
Went back and Sweet opened her birthday presents. She seemed pleased and I am sure glad. The corsage looked pretty on her. We ate at the hotel, and then went up and got our coats and went to the show, "Girl from Alaska" and "At Dawn We Die." After the show we played cards again and Mom sewed up my coat lining. Mom fix me up a sack of apples and candy. I told Mother, "Goodbye." It was sure hard on her, me too, I'm afraid. Betty and I went out and walked some more, all over. We talked about us and everything. We came in at 1:00. I told her goodbye in the hall. It was harder this time than it ever was. We said a lot in those few minutes. I'll see her again someday. I love her with all my heart and she me. Got in bed at 2:30."
My mother's birthday is March 23. I can't even imagine how low my dad must have felt as he went back to the base.
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
March 13, 1944
Monday
Boy was I sleepy today in class. I sure did not do any work today. Just passed the day. When we went to town the buses weren't running so I walked.
We played cards all evening and ate candy and nuts. Boy we ate.
Sweet and I went out for a walk about 10:30. Came back to the hotel and get Betty a head scarf. The wind was really blowing. We walked then until 12:00. We sure had fun. She is sure sweet. We walked over to the old mill. The water was boiling under the bridge. The moon was out. I kissed Sweet on the bridge. She is so sweet. I could have kissed her all night. Her face was so cold and sweet. I love you sweet with all my heart. We talked in the lobby until 1:00, then went up and I kissed her again goodnight. I love you sweet. Got a taxi back. Got in bed at 2:15."
Dad had wanted this diary after my mother had died. He said he wanted to throw it away, because it was too racy. I told him that I was G rated. His Alzheimer's was progressing. I left it with him, knowing he would forget about it. I kept an eye on it in his room and then removed it later when he was not longer focused on it. I had asked the staff to keep an eye on his trash. Fortunately his diary survived.
Boy was I sleepy today in class. I sure did not do any work today. Just passed the day. When we went to town the buses weren't running so I walked.
We played cards all evening and ate candy and nuts. Boy we ate.
Sweet and I went out for a walk about 10:30. Came back to the hotel and get Betty a head scarf. The wind was really blowing. We walked then until 12:00. We sure had fun. She is sure sweet. We walked over to the old mill. The water was boiling under the bridge. The moon was out. I kissed Sweet on the bridge. She is so sweet. I could have kissed her all night. Her face was so cold and sweet. I love you sweet with all my heart. We talked in the lobby until 1:00, then went up and I kissed her again goodnight. I love you sweet. Got a taxi back. Got in bed at 2:15."
Dad had wanted this diary after my mother had died. He said he wanted to throw it away, because it was too racy. I told him that I was G rated. His Alzheimer's was progressing. I left it with him, knowing he would forget about it. I kept an eye on it in his room and then removed it later when he was not longer focused on it. I had asked the staff to keep an eye on his trash. Fortunately his diary survived.
March 12, 1944
Sunday
"Got up at 11:00 and took a shower. Then we had to go to the drug store and get some shaving gear. Came back to the Y and finished cleaning up. Got to them at 12:00. We ate right there in the hotel. Had a nice dinner, salmon. We played cards until afternoon. At 4:30 we started out for the base. We took a taxi and checked Sweet's camera at the main gate. We walked around a bit and then went to the show and saw, "Lady in the Dark," with Ginger Rogers. It was swell.
We went back to town and went to a hamburger joint and ate. Then we went up and played cards again. When I left I did not know whether to kiss Sweet or not, so I just started to leave. She caught me and kissed me. You could have knocked me down, she's wonderful.
Got to bed at 2:00."
One of my Mom's favorite meals is a hamburger. It has to have pickles. Leaving one restaurant, and go to another over the pickles.
"Got up at 11:00 and took a shower. Then we had to go to the drug store and get some shaving gear. Came back to the Y and finished cleaning up. Got to them at 12:00. We ate right there in the hotel. Had a nice dinner, salmon. We played cards until afternoon. At 4:30 we started out for the base. We took a taxi and checked Sweet's camera at the main gate. We walked around a bit and then went to the show and saw, "Lady in the Dark," with Ginger Rogers. It was swell.
We went back to town and went to a hamburger joint and ate. Then we went up and played cards again. When I left I did not know whether to kiss Sweet or not, so I just started to leave. She caught me and kissed me. You could have knocked me down, she's wonderful.
Got to bed at 2:00."
One of my Mom's favorite meals is a hamburger. It has to have pickles. Leaving one restaurant, and go to another over the pickles.
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
March 10, 1944
Saturday
"Mandanca and I road into town with Brady. We went straight to our room at the Y.M.C.A and got cleaned up. It is a pretty nice room. We then went to the hotel and got Mom and Sweet, and then set out to find a supper. We ended up at the Cracker House. What a lousy meal. I had to take a drunk out that was bothering Betty. She's sweet.
We then went to the show and saw, "Passage to Marcell" with Humphry Bogart. After the show we went up to the hotel room. Then Betty and I started out for a dance at the Y. It was just over. Elmer went into bed. We walked all over New London, just like old times again. Betty sure is sweet. We sat and talked in the lobby and then she went up. I told her I loved her for the first time in a long time. I kissed her again. Ohhh!! I love you my sweet with all my heart. Went to the Y and played pool until 4:00 with Elmer, then went to bed."
My grandmother and Mom finally went to New London to see Dad. I bet that was a big deal. It was interesting that Dad met them with friends in tow, but it seem like Mom and Dad did finally have some time alone.
Sounds like my dad put his skills to work that he learned being guard at the jail when they were at diner. Our family can be great night owls and dad was not eager to get to bed after leaving his sweetheart for the night.
"Mandanca and I road into town with Brady. We went straight to our room at the Y.M.C.A and got cleaned up. It is a pretty nice room. We then went to the hotel and got Mom and Sweet, and then set out to find a supper. We ended up at the Cracker House. What a lousy meal. I had to take a drunk out that was bothering Betty. She's sweet.
We then went to the show and saw, "Passage to Marcell" with Humphry Bogart. After the show we went up to the hotel room. Then Betty and I started out for a dance at the Y. It was just over. Elmer went into bed. We walked all over New London, just like old times again. Betty sure is sweet. We sat and talked in the lobby and then she went up. I told her I loved her for the first time in a long time. I kissed her again. Ohhh!! I love you my sweet with all my heart. Went to the Y and played pool until 4:00 with Elmer, then went to bed."
My grandmother and Mom finally went to New London to see Dad. I bet that was a big deal. It was interesting that Dad met them with friends in tow, but it seem like Mom and Dad did finally have some time alone.
Sounds like my dad put his skills to work that he learned being guard at the jail when they were at diner. Our family can be great night owls and dad was not eager to get to bed after leaving his sweetheart for the night.
March 10,1944
Friday
"Mandanca and I went to New London.
We first saw Mother and Betty walking down the street carrying their suitcases. It was sure wonderful to see them again. Betty sure looks sweet.
He and I went to the Y.M.C.A. and played pool while they got settled.
We all went to supper and then went back and talked.
We came back to the base early, because they were tired. They sure have a nice room.
We ate before coming back. Met Jay and took a taxi.
I kissed Sweet goodnight. It was the first time in a long time. I'm still dizzy. She sure is wonderful. I love her so dang much. I won't forget that kiss.
"Mandanca and I went to New London.
We first saw Mother and Betty walking down the street carrying their suitcases. It was sure wonderful to see them again. Betty sure looks sweet.
He and I went to the Y.M.C.A. and played pool while they got settled.
We all went to supper and then went back and talked.
We came back to the base early, because they were tired. They sure have a nice room.
We ate before coming back. Met Jay and took a taxi.
I kissed Sweet goodnight. It was the first time in a long time. I'm still dizzy. She sure is wonderful. I love her so dang much. I won't forget that kiss.
Sunday, March 12, 2017
March 9, 1944
Thursday
"We went to the show and saw
The ocean's surf, slow, deep mellow raise full of mystery & awe, mourning over the dead it holds in its bosom, or lulling to unbroken slumber in the chambers of its vast depths.
"We went to the show and saw
March 8, 1944
Wednesday
"No Letters again today. I Didn't write any to Sweet tonight. It sure seems strange. I washed a lot of clothes tonight.
We saw a movie today. I called Mom at 7:30 P.M., to tell her where to go when she got here. I talked to Dad most of the time. He is a wonderful guy, if only I could be as good as he is I will be satisfied.
Four of us got into a playful little fight tonight, and they were all against me. Boy we sure acted crazy. My total: 1 skinned heal, 1 skinned ankle, 1 sprained thumb and ankle, 1 sore nose and neck, and stiff neck. It was all in fun and we all took it that way. It was fun."
Dad must have been a little goofy after his fight. His spelling was unusually bad. I corrected things so it could be read.
"No Letters again today. I Didn't write any to Sweet tonight. It sure seems strange. I washed a lot of clothes tonight.
We saw a movie today. I called Mom at 7:30 P.M., to tell her where to go when she got here. I talked to Dad most of the time. He is a wonderful guy, if only I could be as good as he is I will be satisfied.
Four of us got into a playful little fight tonight, and they were all against me. Boy we sure acted crazy. My total: 1 skinned heal, 1 skinned ankle, 1 sprained thumb and ankle, 1 sore nose and neck, and stiff neck. It was all in fun and we all took it that way. It was fun."
Dad must have been a little goofy after his fight. His spelling was unusually bad. I corrected things so it could be read.
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
March 7, 1944
Tuesday
"Studied all day today.
Went to New London a reserved Mom and Betty's room in the Mohegan Hotel. Went to the Y.M.C.A. Played pool and ping pong. Wrote to Sweet. I didn't get a letter from Sweet. It's because she is coming, I guess. I 'll see her soon though.
We ate before we came back to the base. Come back in a taxi. Hit the sack at 11:00."
Yippee!!!
"Studied all day today.
Went to New London a reserved Mom and Betty's room in the Mohegan Hotel. Went to the Y.M.C.A. Played pool and ping pong. Wrote to Sweet. I didn't get a letter from Sweet. It's because she is coming, I guess. I 'll see her soon though.
We ate before we came back to the base. Come back in a taxi. Hit the sack at 11:00."
Yippee!!!
Monday, March 6, 2017
Marrch 6, 1944
Monday
"We went out on the U.S.S. Pike all day today.
I had mess cook with Kinsey. He is a good guy. We peeled enough spuds for an army. Chow was swell. Afternoon I had forward and after torpedo rooms. This was the first 1500 ton I have been out on. It's swell. I got acquainted with the 50 cal. machine gun today, an other one of my hurtles. Oh I am going to have quite a time. One of our subs has real fire power and real fighting men. I saw my first cans today-a D.C. deck tubes and ash cans and all.
I got two letters from Sweet today. She is sure some wonderful girl. If I can't have her, she will sure make some guy a wonderful wife. But I'm trying my best. It's up to God now.
Went to the show and saw, "Nine Girls."
Goodnight Sweet."
"We went out on the U.S.S. Pike all day today.
I had mess cook with Kinsey. He is a good guy. We peeled enough spuds for an army. Chow was swell. Afternoon I had forward and after torpedo rooms. This was the first 1500 ton I have been out on. It's swell. I got acquainted with the 50 cal. machine gun today, an other one of my hurtles. Oh I am going to have quite a time. One of our subs has real fire power and real fighting men. I saw my first cans today-a D.C. deck tubes and ash cans and all.
I got two letters from Sweet today. She is sure some wonderful girl. If I can't have her, she will sure make some guy a wonderful wife. But I'm trying my best. It's up to God now.
Went to the show and saw, "Nine Girls."
Goodnight Sweet."
Sunday, March 5, 2017
March 5, 1944
Sunday
"Kinsey and Kirkwood come in drunk last night. I helped the guard and we got them in a cold shower, then in their sacks. Lord what a mess of humans they were. They were sure crazy. Had to do the same thing this morning, still drunk. But are all right now, just a bad case of hangover.
Wrote to Sweet all day.
Went to early show with Beutener. The picture was, "Suspected Person." It was an English picture."
"Kinsey and Kirkwood come in drunk last night. I helped the guard and we got them in a cold shower, then in their sacks. Lord what a mess of humans they were. They were sure crazy. Had to do the same thing this morning, still drunk. But are all right now, just a bad case of hangover.
Wrote to Sweet all day.
Went to early show with Beutener. The picture was, "Suspected Person." It was an English picture."
March 5, 1944
Saturday
"We had weeks tests again today, and I went to small stores.
After school I took all of two hours to clean up and shave. I got some talcum powder. Boy it stinks so pretty.
I didn't write Betty tonight. I didn't have much to say. I hope she will understand.
Went to the show by myself and saw, "Chip off the old block." It was about young kids. I thought it was swell.
A short was, "Marines on Tarawa." It showed dead Marines in the water along the beach, bloated and floating. It hit me like a truck. God what a sight that was."
When Dad saw, "Pearl Harbor," in the movies and at his home, several scenes really disturbed him.
"We had weeks tests again today, and I went to small stores.
After school I took all of two hours to clean up and shave. I got some talcum powder. Boy it stinks so pretty.
I didn't write Betty tonight. I didn't have much to say. I hope she will understand.
Went to the show by myself and saw, "Chip off the old block." It was about young kids. I thought it was swell.
A short was, "Marines on Tarawa." It showed dead Marines in the water along the beach, bloated and floating. It hit me like a truck. God what a sight that was."
When Dad saw, "Pearl Harbor," in the movies and at his home, several scenes really disturbed him.
Saturday, March 4, 2017
March 3, 1944
Friday
"Had duty today, and prison guard it was again. Got two letters from Mom and it looks likes they will not get to come. I hope they can though. I have been looking forward to them more than I realized, I guess. I answered her letters and the one I got from Sweet. I mustered at 8:30, then washed some clothes and cleaned up to hit the sack. Betty sure is consistent in her writing. She is sweet to spend so much time on me. I hope she is happy. I don't imagine it is very exciting waiting for a guy. I sure hope I can get home to her someday. I love her with all my heart. I don't know what I would do without her."
"Had duty today, and prison guard it was again. Got two letters from Mom and it looks likes they will not get to come. I hope they can though. I have been looking forward to them more than I realized, I guess. I answered her letters and the one I got from Sweet. I mustered at 8:30, then washed some clothes and cleaned up to hit the sack. Betty sure is consistent in her writing. She is sweet to spend so much time on me. I hope she is happy. I don't imagine it is very exciting waiting for a guy. I sure hope I can get home to her someday. I love her with all my heart. I don't know what I would do without her."
March 2, 1944
Thursday
"Got a hair cut today and barber just about scalped me.
Stone, Mendonca, and I went out on liberty to New London. It was my first time out since I have been here, 8 weeks. I felt just as much out of place as when I first came into the Navy. I felt too free to be comfortable.
Went to the jewelry store and got and expansion watch strap for Sweet. Went to the R.R. station and got two tickets to N.Y.C. for a guy. Went to eat at a nice restaurant. Stoner went to a show and we went to the U.S.O. at the Y.M.C.A. No women. It felt more like usual with just men around. They had a lot of swell records. Wrote to Sweet and answered her two letters today. We played pad and ping pong till late. Met a guy from home. Got something to eat and took a taxi back to base. Hit the sack at 12:15."
Here are a few of the notes left from the Memo pages.
"Betty Cuppy, I love you more as the time passes and I'm sure it will keep on being that way."
"God of the hidden purpose, let our embarking be, the prayer of proud men asking not to be safe, but free."
"Got a hair cut today and barber just about scalped me.
Stone, Mendonca, and I went out on liberty to New London. It was my first time out since I have been here, 8 weeks. I felt just as much out of place as when I first came into the Navy. I felt too free to be comfortable.
Went to the jewelry store and got and expansion watch strap for Sweet. Went to the R.R. station and got two tickets to N.Y.C. for a guy. Went to eat at a nice restaurant. Stoner went to a show and we went to the U.S.O. at the Y.M.C.A. No women. It felt more like usual with just men around. They had a lot of swell records. Wrote to Sweet and answered her two letters today. We played pad and ping pong till late. Met a guy from home. Got something to eat and took a taxi back to base. Hit the sack at 12:15."
Here are a few of the notes left from the Memo pages.
"Betty Cuppy, I love you more as the time passes and I'm sure it will keep on being that way."
"God of the hidden purpose, let our embarking be, the prayer of proud men asking not to be safe, but free."
Friday, March 3, 2017
March 1, 1944
Wednesday
" Studied all day.
Got a short letter from Sweets.
Went to the show with Jay and saw, "Casanova of Burlesque," with Joey Brown."
My Father does not seem to write much on days that he is focused on studying. I find it very enriching to type his words each day. It gives me pause to think about how he was developing as a man, and how this period of time affects him. His journal while he was at sea was more of an inventory of battle encounters with less self introspection.
My Father was an extraordinary man in my eyes. He did not drink or smoke. He speaks of his faith in God being a foundation. His faith was different than mine. I suspect he went to church more than I did as a child. I did not know that he studied that Bible much. His faith in Jesus Christ and God was unquestioned. God definitely guided Dads days.
I also never knew a more honest honorable man. He was obviously a leader and one that could be depended on. He was obviously an introvert. You can tell by his pattern of days. It was important to do his job as a sailor and do it well. He took his duties and studies seriously. I suspect that he pulled guard duty at the brig because he would never end up there any other way. He had a couple of good friends. Went to the movies often, and spent much of his time writing letters. His home and his love for my mother meant the world to him. I see him willing to do his duty during this war, with his dreams for the future being put on hold. His faith in God's protection seemed to give him the hope that there be another time for him to see his dreams fulfilled. This is balance with the knowledge he would never return home. Entering the was beyond mid way, he was very aware of the risks.
" Studied all day.
Got a short letter from Sweets.
Went to the show with Jay and saw, "Casanova of Burlesque," with Joey Brown."
My Father does not seem to write much on days that he is focused on studying. I find it very enriching to type his words each day. It gives me pause to think about how he was developing as a man, and how this period of time affects him. His journal while he was at sea was more of an inventory of battle encounters with less self introspection.
My Father was an extraordinary man in my eyes. He did not drink or smoke. He speaks of his faith in God being a foundation. His faith was different than mine. I suspect he went to church more than I did as a child. I did not know that he studied that Bible much. His faith in Jesus Christ and God was unquestioned. God definitely guided Dads days.
I also never knew a more honest honorable man. He was obviously a leader and one that could be depended on. He was obviously an introvert. You can tell by his pattern of days. It was important to do his job as a sailor and do it well. He took his duties and studies seriously. I suspect that he pulled guard duty at the brig because he would never end up there any other way. He had a couple of good friends. Went to the movies often, and spent much of his time writing letters. His home and his love for my mother meant the world to him. I see him willing to do his duty during this war, with his dreams for the future being put on hold. His faith in God's protection seemed to give him the hope that there be another time for him to see his dreams fulfilled. This is balance with the knowledge he would never return home. Entering the was beyond mid way, he was very aware of the risks.
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
February 29, 1944
Tuesday
"Studied all day. Plenty to learn. If I can just remember it all.
Had duty, brig guard. Got two letters from sweet and answered them this evening. Mustered at 8:30, then washed clothes and cleaned up and hit the sack."
So I just get caught up and here is leap year. There are three pages of notes and memos. Some of the these pages are filled in by other family members after he went to sea and left the diary with my mother. Following will be the notes that
dad made:
"The man that is free has his liberty, so I must stand up and fight, that someday I will have this wonderful God given right."
"The soldier on land, and the sailors at sea, all left our loved ones so dear, to fight for this right, against the foes of might, that these loved ones may live without fear."
"I left my wonderful home, and the one I love more that life, I know that someday, if I be God's will, I will return from this assignment to kill, to a life in a beautiful world again, where I will live and love at my will."
Among the flowers and trees and sky so blue, with the love of my wife and God so true, I am a home of my own, with a will of my own, determining what I will do. The price can never be too great that we must pay, to live in a free happy world someday."
"Studied all day. Plenty to learn. If I can just remember it all.
Had duty, brig guard. Got two letters from sweet and answered them this evening. Mustered at 8:30, then washed clothes and cleaned up and hit the sack."
So I just get caught up and here is leap year. There are three pages of notes and memos. Some of the these pages are filled in by other family members after he went to sea and left the diary with my mother. Following will be the notes that
dad made:
"The man that is free has his liberty, so I must stand up and fight, that someday I will have this wonderful God given right."
"The soldier on land, and the sailors at sea, all left our loved ones so dear, to fight for this right, against the foes of might, that these loved ones may live without fear."
"I left my wonderful home, and the one I love more that life, I know that someday, if I be God's will, I will return from this assignment to kill, to a life in a beautiful world again, where I will live and love at my will."
Among the flowers and trees and sky so blue, with the love of my wife and God so true, I am a home of my own, with a will of my own, determining what I will do. The price can never be too great that we must pay, to live in a free happy world someday."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)