LETTERS FROM BETTY, BILL & DICK IN 1945 (WORLD WAR 11)
Taken from Claude William Warren’s 1945 Diary
January

2nd – Bill lift Beloit at 11:50 am for Chicago.
Visited with Dick at Mid S. School
Headed for Nashville.

4th Bill phoned from Nashville.

5th Bill writes from Nashville. Taking final instructions required movies and lectures. Letter arrived Jan. 9th.

17th Bill phoned tonight from Nashville that he will start for India in the morning, a journey of about two weeks (?) (Actually four weeks)

Dick phoned from Chicago concerning plans for his graduation.

18th Dad, Mom, Jean, Jane with Mrs. Barnes and her sister Miss McDonald drove to Chicago to see Dick and Marvin Barnes graduate at navy Pier with a class of 1250. Called on Ralph and family. Home at 10:00 pm.

Bill left Nashville Jan. 18th for Assam, India.

21st Bill writes from somewhere in S. America, wishes he had a good history and geography. To S. America, via Puerto Rico then to Natal, Brazil, Ascension Island and West Africa

23rd Bill writes from Brazil, S. America.

24th Bill – Brazil

27th Bill Brazil, surf riding

29th We drove Dick to Rockford to take the 1:50 pm Ill,Cent, train for Chicago. He left Chicago at 8:15 that night for San Francisco

30th Betty spent a half hour with Dick at Cheyenne, Wyoming Tuesday night, as his train laid over for 35 minutes. Wonderful visit says Betty.

Bill writes from West Africa, Accrs, Gold Coast. Sent pictures in bathing suit.

Loose telegram in diary: To C.W.Warren, Rockton, Ill. Have Dicks white suit cleaned and mailed to EPO also book of poetry. Betty.

31st Bill writes from Africa Nigeria.

February

1st Dick arrived at San Francisco Thurs, morning transferred to Treasure Island.

4th Bill – Nigeria, Africa. Horseback riding. Read “Green Light” Dean Harcout. Walt Whitman.

5th Bill – Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. Letter ar. Feb 14 (9 days enroute)

8th Received a beautiful letter from Dick written Feb. 6 from Frisco. “Stern joy of the Warrior”.

10th 9:30 pm Dick phoned from San Francisco. He leaves Sunday at 1:30 pm on a Transport Ship bound for Pearl Harbor. Voice sounded fine, to Dad, Mom, Jean * Jane. (Later: Did not leave until Wed. night Feb. 14th)

11th Feb. 10th – Bill arrives in India but not permanent address. Letter ar. Feb. 21. Left Nashville Jan. 18, Ar. India Feb 10, 23 days.

14th Letter from Dick dated Valentine Day Feb. 14th says that 1000 enlisted men, 50 officers will board the transport in Frisco Bay that evening while the band plays “Anchors Aweigh”. He says the boys really like “and I’m no exception”. They are headed for Pearl Harbor, then Guam. This letter arrived Feb. 17, “Cinc Pac”

18th Bill arrived in Assam, India his final destination. Left Nashville Jan 18th, A journey of exactly one month to a day, via S. America, Africa, Red Sea, Bombay, Calcutta, Assam.

19th Card from Betty from St. Louis enroute to Orlando, Florida for one month at the Administration Inspection School.

20th Dick arrived at Pearl Harbor. Left Frisco Feb. 14—a 6 day trip. Says he spent one whole day in the “sack” but never missed a meal nor lost one.

23rd Card from Betty enrouts to Orlando. Swamp, dust, red clay.

26th Card from Betty from Orlando, Fla. Letter from Bill from India now APO No. 492. Expects to fly C-47’s, (Written Feb. 11, Received Feb. 26) Letter from Dick from Pearl Harbor describing trip from Frisco. Written Feb 18th. Received the 26th. Expects to leave soon for Guam.

28th On this date Bill expected to finish his Ground School course. He reports it is interesting, studying the routes he will fly and the weather to be expected. He is in the nicest base in the Assam Valley.
March

1st Rec’d letter from Dick from Pearl Harbor mailed Feb. 24. Expects to be there for 2 or 3 days then make final leg of journey by air to his destination (Guam?). Picked up a bunch of our letters at Pearl. He was glad to hear that Betty is in Florida and that Jean got to Chicago—Mme. Arndt.

2nd Card from Dick gives his new address. USS Mustin. All we know is that he was to fly from Pearl.

3rd Red’d letter from Bill from Assam India, his final destination. Written Feb. 20th. He flew there from Calcutta. Likes his new base, one of the nicest in the area. Will take a week of ground school, then start flying the Hump into China. Must put in 650 hours at that base beginning March 1st. No mail from us to date.

6th Rec’d letter Bill, Assam. Written Feb. 24th. He lives in a tent with two other pilots. Chet Pingry, Omro, Wi. and Russell Kelley, of Los Angeles. “Abduhl” is the name of the “man” the Mohamedan house-keeper. Chow is good, appetite excellent.

8th From a small island below the Equator and west of the Date Line, Dick boards the USS Mustin (DD413) at 7:00 pm. It is a fighting ship definitely, not a DE which merely escorts convoys. “I couldn’t ask for a better bunch of officers to work with they have treated me swell.”

10th Letter from Betty – Orlando, FLA. Wonderful scenic trips, glass bottom boat – Silver Springs.

11th Mon and Dad called on Sgt. Bob Gilbertson, who is home on furlough from Africa, Sicily, Italy, China and India. Gave us Bill’s present address (?). Hope he is right, will know later.

12th Rec’d letter from Bill dated Feb. 27th. Says he has received a batch of our mail. Also heard from Betty and Aunt Deborah. He went to church in Assam enjoyes this service, But ! Says he expects to start flying in a few days, meanwhile “keep mail and food coming.”

14th Letter from Dick – dated March 6th. South Pacific. He was flown past Marchall Islands, crossed Date Line and Equator. Bumped off at the Marchalls than after a few days was picked up by another C-54 to a certain island “down under.” He saw the Mustin from the plane. Expects to go aboard soon. Anxious to begin “solid sea duty”. This letter is no. one in new system of numbering his mail.

20th Letter from Bill, Assam, dated mar 6th. Made first trip over Hump. Was in Calcutta four days—did not know about Dale Wetzel. Request for Whitman’s poems, and Dick’s picture.

21st Betty leaves Orlando for Col. Springs completing month’s special course.

27th Letter from Bill written Mar. 12th reports he has just received our first letter addressed to his permanent address #466 APO. He enjoys the sight of Orion from the Mts. He flies so high he seems to be looking down on the stars – a comet seen from that height is an awe-inspiring sight. Wants to know my Scripture lesson each Sunday. Indian sayings “Salaam Sahib” (Hello) “Basha” (House china) “Ding How (Good deal) “Boo How” (Poor deal). Wonderful letter from Deborah, letter dated Mar. 16th.

28th Dick’s first from the Mustin (DD413) It is NOT a DE—to speak of it as such is sacrilegious—so there! The Mustin is a fighting ship, if you please. The officers treat him swell. He is receiving instruction on required duties. The ship just received their Christmas presents 2 ½ months late.

30th Letter from Bill written March 20th, says he has now received most of his mail addressed to APO #466. He has heard from Pat and Aunt Deborah. Look for story soon of two tame monkeys captured by natives.
April

3rd Letter from Betty. On her return to Colorado Springs she is given a Funds Inspection job. Attended early Easter morning service at Garden of the Gods driving up at 5:30 and enjoying breakfast afterwards.

4th Letter from Dick from an island in Pacific. He is attached to Gunnery Dept in preparation for later assignment. He saw Admiral Nimitz at Marshall Islands, tall dignified with snow white hair and a stride that would tire any subordinate trying to keep up with him. The Mustin is still the best in the Navy. Received Book of Poetry and “Where Away”, The Bible, a Dictionary and book of Poetry – enough if marooned on an island.

5th Letter from Bill to Jean and Jane containing Chinese money.

9th Letter from Bill dated March 29. He had just received our three letters dated March 12 etc. Takes 16 days at least to get our mail. He hopes to visit Rog Arnold someday at Kumming Rec’d our colored slides. Is not at either base which Bob Gilbertson guessed, but is somewhat to the south. Roscoe Williams is at Myitkyina, India, he bought the carving set at Kerachi, India. He flies the Hump at 20,000 ft. in a C-87. Asks for copy of Burma Surgion also food.

10th Another letter from Bill dated March 29. Says he must put in 750 hours in that area before returning home – about next Feb. Has made 7 round trips over the Hump. Wants books, pictures, and flower seeds, also films, Beloit Daily News and Chicago Tribune. Our letters reach him in 10 to 15 days. When he does come home he thinks he will be based in the States.

13th Letter from Dick written Apr. 7, mailed Apr. 9, rec’d Apr 13. This is his third letter from the Mustin. Swell bunch of officers with two other preachers’ sons – Methodist and Baptist. Also a Jewish officer. Gunnery work is an endless source of study. He has had several working and beach parties – a good way to learn his crew. They did not attempt to take advantage of his newness – but seemed willing to lend a hand to a boot ensign. Dick says he appreciates this. The Jewish officer, learning Dick is a Congregationalist said: “Hm m, a free-thinker.” Dick says the church must give thought, effort and application—these will pay big dividends.

14th 2 letters from Bill written April 4 sand 7 Nos. 1 and 2. 11 trips over the Hump. We know he files to Kurming to meet Rog Arnold there someday. But he stays there only one or two hours, unless there is engine trouble, when the crew stays there overnight. Says he is getting posted on Navy Destroyers, thanks to Dad’s communiques. Chinese people are wonderful as a nation but there is much petty thievery among poor laborers who have been starving for years until the army came in. He hopes to visit the universities in China and see the true side. Asks for books, films and food. He has received only one letter from Dick from Pearl Harbor.

24th Letter from Bill No. 3 dated Apr 15. Rec’d Apr 24. Completed 12 trips over the Hump. He has heard from Betty and Pat, soon to get her commission as Nave nurse. No word from
Dick since San Francisco. Describes effect of Roosevelt’s death in India. Bill is ready to do his full duty anywhere the Army decides to send him. Has received the books I sent him. He closes the letter: “My prayers are of you and the day when all the families of the world once more may be united.”

25th San Francisco Security Conference opens with message from Pres. Truman.

26th Family letter from Betty – Expects to fly to Albuquerque soon in inspection tour. She heard from Dick March 18, on temporary duty under instruction after which he will be in the states this summer for a short period.

30th Letter from Bill mailed Apr 22 (n0 4) 8 days –shortest time yet. Has received our letters of Apr. 5, 8 and 10. Has made 15 trips over the Hump. Total of 160 hours toward the goal of 750 hours. Takes 8 to 10 flying hrs for Round trip. Stops in China one hr. for meal of fresh eggs (none in India). Cheese omelet and STEAK. I have not guessed his location yet. The C-87 is the highest flying plane in service there. Wants films for 27 camera. Roscoe Williams address.
May

Letter from Dick written Apr. 15, mailed Apr 24, 7 days enroute. Rec’d a stack of our letters including two lessons of Dad’s Correspondence Course on the Mustin and its history. Dick says he told the boys some facts about their ship they wouldn’t learn in five years. He says to look up the Anderson, a sister ship. He heard from Bill recently, and all of us. Don’t send food, it arrives in a crummy state. Some of the boys on the ship are just getting their Christmas mail.

2nd Letter from Bill No. 5 mailed Apr. 23 – 9 days. New Chaplain in Camp. Bill expects to give him the “acid test”. Sometimes he is called out for duty at 2:30 am. He went into the village to buy a badminton set – how an Indian merchant got it is nine day wonder. Now we know it is a camp near a village not a city. Advises us to see “Objective Burma” which he saw in camp. Good idea of terrain he flies over.

10th Letter from Dick written Apr. 21st Mailed Apr. 30. Rec’d May 10. Hopes to be back in the States in the next 2 or 3 months. So say we! And if he gets home will have some dental work done. Rec’d the books I sent him, but says not to send food – too long on the way. No mail from us for over three weeks. “Home may be far away but it becomes ever so closer thru your letters” ”he writes.

12th Letter from Bill #7 Written May 1. Now is Central Indai, training for 1st Pilot – be there 2 0r 3 weeks. Has made 19 trips over Hump. Wants Fitch’s Shampoo’

Letter from Betty—back from Albuquerque. 1st trip as Administration Inspector. Rode a B-17 and sat in Bombadier’s Section – more darn fun! She says. Visited Juarez, Mexico, opposite El Paso, Texas,

14th Letter from Betty – back from Albuquerque. Great t.rip
letters from Bill. No. 6 dated Apr 30. No. 8 dated May 6. Both from Central India – completed 20 trip over Hump, describes crew – 2pilots, a Radio operator and Engineer.

16th Telegram from S. Sgt. Betty Warren. Letter from Betty full of newsy news.

19th No. 9 mailed May 11. Letter from Bill from Central India. Has completed 13 hours of special instruction – hopes to make it 20. Finished Link course. His Instructor is a former Civilian instructor – gets along fine with him. Expects to get thru there in another week. Temp is 115’. To keep fit Bill eats two salt tablets per meal

21st Letter from Dick written May 8. Mailed May 14. Written the day he got news of German’s surrender. Duties on a destroyer have many changing fortunes, and the boys in the fleet regard her highly. Hopes to return to the states in 2 or 3 months. Says the church must keep people aware of their opportunities to begin to build an enlightened civilization. “All is well with me and the Mustin. Am thinking of you always my dearest family. Love to all. Dick”

28th Letter (no 10) from Bill mailed May 16 –12 days. Still in Central India – hopes to be thru in two more days. He now flies at night, very difficult, no horizon, hard to get the big box car down. No let up on Hump flying, instead it will be doubled carrying supplies for our troops when they land on mainland of China. Hopes someday to fly in So. Pacific or from Philippines to China. Is with Roscoe Williams. Will send pictures soon. Enjoyed chocolate bits we sent. Send more. Describes sand storm.

29th Letter from Bill (no 11) Mailed Nay 20 – 9 days. At last finished his course. Mastered Night flying – flies from 1:00 to 5:00 am. Had wonderful Instructor with lots of patience. Hopes to return to Assam by May 20 or 21. May go to a movie and dance at Officers Club with WHITE WOMEN as partners

June
1st Letter from Betty. Plans to come on furlough when Dick comes home if and when he comes this summer. Is enjoying lots of horse back riding.

2nd Letter from Betty. $10.00 enclosed. Expects to make another Inspection soon at base. Likes picture of pups. Save one for her.

4th Letter from Bill (no. 12) dated May 25 – 10 days. After 23 days in Gaya (home of Budda ) Training Field—back in Assam—learned a lot. Stood under Budda’s Tree. Wanta a course on India Religions. Received Upper Room and will read it daily. Wants films and food. Rec’d V-mail letters from Jean and Jane, also a stack of mail from home and Pat, Dick and Betty. No report of First Pilot duties.

6th Letter from Bill (no 13) Mailed May 21 – 10 days. He must make 2 0r 3 trips more as co-pilot before taking over in full charge as 1st Pilot. Then he will get more time. Enjoys all our letters – but no flower seeds have arrived. Wants food, nuts, peanut butter, olives, jam or meat spread. Uses Upper Room readings daily. Letters from home “are the greatest morale builder I could wish for.”

8th V-mail letter from Dick dated May 23. 16 days. Is fine but busy. No mail from us since Apr. 1st, except one V-mail from Jean. Our many air mail letters are all delayed. From on we write V-mail. Dick hope to get back to States in a couple of months.

12th Letter from Bill (no 14) dated June 12 – 10 days. In hospital with sore toe. Pretty nurse from Beloit who went to school with Bill and Betty Stebbins. Wants to know if I “wallomed” his last letter about Kunming. I hope he has met Rog Arnold.

14th Letter from Bill written May 29 before he went to hospital. He is near a Baptist Mission. It will be several weeks before he gets to be 1st pilot as must make a number of trips called Route Checks. Same applies to rank of 2nd Lt. Technically he is a Service not an Army Pilot. Reading Lord Jim. Ordered flowers for Mother’s Day from Kerachi, India. They arrived OK. Wants Time Magazine sent 1st Class. No Chicago Tribune or Beloit paper has arrived yet.

15th Letter from Bill (no. 15) written June 3 – 12 days, Still in hospital – enjoys radio “NutCracker” and fried chicken. Planted Hollyhocks. New C-87 base near his base. Hopes to get leave to see Calcutta or go north for a hunting trip. I wonder how far north! Has a new commanding officer.
No. 16. Letter from Bill, written June 5, 10 days. Still in hospital for thorough check-up. Expects to be out soon. I think.
Dick phoned from San Diego, Ca. arrived there this morning (Friday, June 15) for two months gunnery training in Amphibious warfare. Hopes to get home for short leave in Aaugust.

19th No. 18, Letter From Bill dated June 10. He rec’d our letter of May 28 on June 9. The “Graduation Sermon” – Four Anchors, Hopes to get to Calcutta to see Dale Wetzell. Reads “Upper Room” and “Star Magazine”, Attended church in Hospital Chapel built by English Tea Planters, very lovely. This family supervises the many plantations in the valley. Sermon by chaplain “Darkest hour just before the dawn”, Likes pictures of Scamper and pups. Likes our letters fine they satisfy his deepest longings. Likes news of Church. “I close my eyes and visualize the interior of the church”.

21st –Two letters from Dick, one from San Diego, one from Pacific, his last from the Mustin. Full account of battle experiences at Guadalcanal, Guam, Saipan, Ulithi, and Okinawa, where the Mustin helped to convoy 25,000 Marines. Likes his men, course in gunnery, radio, map reading etc. Rec’d cookies ok.
Letter from Bill dated June 9 (no. 17 12 days) Our cookies mailed Apr. 14 reached him June 8 OK, enjoyed by all in ward – Bill got a few. His physical instructor is a One Man Cyclone. Bill will be able to meet Joe Louis soon. A Navy boy in hospital served on Destroyer gives Bill the low-down. All admire Dick’s photo and “feel sorry for Army Air Force.”

26th Letter from Dick. Says Betty might make an inspection trip out his way. His course includes radio, map-reading, gunnery (Army & Navy) infantry tactics and Navel gunfire support – liaison work with either Army or Marines, Naval gunfire in needed in Amphibious Operation not only to protect troops in earl stages of landing but to lend aid as long as possible. At Okinawa navel gunfire was used thru most of the operation. The Navel Officer brings to shore with him his communication system (radio) so he can direct the ship’s gunfire to best advantage. He “likes the work immensely.” The captain of the Mustin wanted Dick to remain under his service –this was quite a compliment – but Dick preferred Liaison service. The Captain was very congenial and was on hand to see him off when Dick left the ship – Dick says “truly a wonderful skipper”

29th No. 19 Letter from Bill, dated June 19 – Has made 22 trips over Hump. Monsoon season is on. Flies entirely by instrument, 6 hrs of 9 in clouds. Starts at 1000 ft. climbs to 18,000 ft thru clouds and does not see ground until he hits China. Fine radio service. Still co=pilot until Check pilot has time to give test. Good letters from Betty and Aunt Deborah, Our prayers says he make his life much easier.

30th Letter from Dick. Gunnery course extremely interesting. No books “to crack”, no studying nights. Life is relaxing, Naval Education very efficient. We sent wrong rain coat (A/s) Don’t any one know Dick has a commission and is on a Ship not a boat. Took physical – “In the pink” Rec’d map showing islands where Mustin dropped the hook – Guadalcanal, Palau,. Saipan, Ulithi, Formosa, Okinawa. Covered landing Apr. 1st

July

6th Letter from Betty. Henry the turtle is dead. Stepped on by a careless WAC – noticeable crunch and he entered his happy hunting ground.. Hopes to be home Aug. 14 – if Dick gets his leave then. Signed Betty (Stripes to You)

9th No. 20 – Letter from Bill – dated June 24, 15 days – Had 2 Check Trips – 2 or 3 more to take. V-Mail service is bad, takes several days longer han Air Mail, which comes thru in 10 days. Attended service in new chapel, just dedicated – reminded him of Birch Cross up north, — Loves the old hymns of the church — Speaks of the challenge of Post War World and the part returned veterans must take. Sends pictures of his tent and Abdubl, his Indian bearer.

No. 21, Letter from Bill – dated July 2. At last he heard from Dick at San Disgo. Wants picture of Mustin. Sends order for his photo to send to Pat Bullis, Eau Claire. Unlikely he will see Rog Arnold. The nurse from Beloit is Lt. Grammes, lives near hospital. She is in hospital at his base. – Short, chubby blonde. Our letters are swell, he says.

12th Letter from Dick from San Diego. Expects to go on a field trip to practice getting radios and working with them. Tones down my estimate of his courage in choosing service on a DD. It’s just routine he says. But he says his Dad knows more about the history of the Mustin then the Captain himself, whose name and rank is Lt. Com. Jerry Hughs, class of ’38 Naval Acad. A wonderful captain to have. The Mustin came through Okinawa campaign without a scratch.

20th No. 22, Letter from Bill. The weather in India – “smothering, bone-melting heat.” He is now a Real 1st Pilot, thou without a plane, as there are not enough for all the new First Pilots. Flew in a C-54 as co-pilot. By fall they will change over to this plane entirely. Enjoys Beloit paper even tho two months old. Time arrives in 10 days. Enjoyed June issue of Readers Digest -–says we must back Chiang Kai Shek to hilt, our own future depends on China.

21st Letter from Dick. Rec’d birthday cake a day late. In entire month of May his ship operated with fire carriers including Suwannee, Ralph Liddle’s ship. May not get home but his commander is a good “Joe” and will do his best for the boys. Inquires about Aunt Deborah and Frank.

25th Letter from Betty – Wants proof of future life as Dilly her friend has no such belief. Her father came from a family of sea captains since Revolutionary Way – a great humanitarian – always helping needy people, but lacked faith in immortality. Her’s a reqest I must heed. Does spiritual existence extend to animals, she inquires?

27th No. 23, Letter from Bill, dated July 16. He and Pingry are 1st Pilots and work togeter as 1st and Co Pilots. In China he landed near Yangtzy River. At a height of 17000 flew around a Mt. 25000 feet high – snow –ice –glaciers – rocks, a wonderful sight, felt as tho he was watched – took some pictures. Rec’d Jean’s picture – one fellow said he had a “good looking wife”.

28th No. 24, dated July 18. I guessed it at last Jorhat, a small village with a Baptist mission. On that same day he was told the boys could name their locations. Am I glad I guessed it? Took his first Pilot trip July 17. In China had good dinner – roast pork,corn o cob, fresh tomatoes. Total trip took nine hours with Pingey it is much more enjoyable – flying, sleeping reading or talking together. Likes Beloit and Rockton papers – No Chicago Sunday Tribune yet. Jorhat is on the Bramsputra River.

Letter from Dick to Jean from San Diego. Thanks for her picture which all the fellows admire – can’t believe she is only 16. Is now digging foxholes in training for amphibious landings, with field radios on his back, blisters all over him – duty for any other and enjoys it more by the day. Expects to be shipped by first possible air transportation after completing his course – but his CO is trying his best to delay that order long enough to give the boys a few days at home, but if they are needed and wanted elsewhere “it is best to accept such orders as just events in a way that may someday soon be over.”until then – Love as ever, Dick (A fine letter)

August

3rd No. 25, Letter from Bill dated July 26 – Finished 3rd flight since he became 1st Pilot. With full moon – a beautiful sight to see majestic snow capped Mts. The “Old Hump” was used in ’42 while Japs wee in N. Burma. From his tent he can see Naga tribe territory, rolling carpet of green. Crews bailed out in jungles of Central Burma usually return with help of the Nagas. Americans who fought in Burma in ’42 and ’43 did a wonderful service to the ATC by befriending the natives. Now when a crew walks into a Naga village, they are fed, clothed and given a guide to the nearest air base.. These guides are well regarded. The chapel at Jorhat was built by English tea merchants from London for their own use, but the English do little for the natives, preferring to keep them as an inferior face. The Americans, and especially the Baptists, are rendering great service to the natives. Jorhat has a fine church, hospital, and school with eight grades and Jr., HS – 250 students, mostly Mohammedans who are very ambitious to better themselves. The Hindus believe “once a sweeper always a sweeper” To rise from this round of the ladder he must go to a different town where his status is unknown. Bill got picture of Mustin and Old Stone Church.

6th No. 26, Letter from July 21-Aug. 6 Half way thru his sta in India. Ordered 35 mm camera. Fired Abduhl.
Letter from Dick. Will finish course Aug. 14 – may leave for Pacific the 20th or come home or take another course. Hopes to meet Betty soon.

7th Letter from Betty from Tucson, ARIZ. On way to see Dick at San Diego. Will visit with him from Sunday to Tuesday (today)

13th Bill 24th Birthday. Letter from Bill to Jean and Jane – with MO $28.00 for voice and flying lessons.

17th Letter from Dick from San Diego. No prospect of leave. Enjoyed visit from Betty – Friday afternoon to Sunday morning. Thankful for news of Peace – “Prayer is the best way to show thanks, don’t you think?” Completed his final exams Aug. 14 waiting orders.

18th Letter from Bill – Aug. 7-18. On Aug. 1 Army Air Force Day the Jorhat base more than doubled its daily tonnage – flew the mileage equivalent to 6 ½ times around the world. They fly by the Greenwich Clock, 7:00 July 30 to 7:00 Aug. 1. Will write a letter Advance soon. Dick sent his a real hunting knife, he wears it with every trip – indispensable if you have to live in the jungle for a few weeks – will provide food and shelter. Sent camera negatives for development.

28th Wire from Dick from San Diego care Dave Wells he will get home Wed. or Thur – 15 days.

29th Dick arrived midnight train at Walworth from Chicago. Ice cream and cake at Dave’s – (Exactly seven months from Jan. 29, when he left Rockford for Chicago enroute to San Francisco)

30th Dick to Chicago by bus from Lake Geneva. Red coupons at Elkhorn.

31st No. 24, Letter from Bill dated Aug. 19, End of War. No more night trips or bad weather flying. May close Jorhat in one month. Hops eo get home or maybe be sent to Pacific where he can fly from Manila to Tokkyo. The big question in Assam: When do we go home?

Dad, Mom and girls to Elkhown County Fair. Will and Wright and family. Met Dick at 6:30 train at Walworth from Chicago.
September

1st We came back to Rockton with Dick at 4:00 pm. Dick met Ethel at Beloit at 8:15 that night.

2nd Two Navy boys, Dick and Jr. Dixon in church.

3rd All the family with Ethel to Lake Geneva. Dick and Ethel to Chicago.

4th Dick back from Chicago 11:02 am.

5th 28th Wedding Anniversay. Mom’s 53rd Birthday. Dick took us to the Wagon Wheel at Rockford for wonderful dinner.

6th Dick and Jean drove to Chicago for Jean’s vocal lesson. Dick will stay until Sat. night and return with Ethel.
No. 25, Letter from Bill dated Aug. 24. On the 30th he says he and Pingry will go to Rest Camp at Shillang, up in the hills – swimming pool, tennis courts, horseback riding – wonderful scenery to get there by bus takes six hours up Mountains, on return to Jorhat he may be sent another base or come home.

7th Dick returned from Chicago by car.

8th Ethel arrived 8:15 pm.

9th Three Navy officers in Church, Dick, Jim Gilchrist and Lt. James Packard. Picnic dinner at Foster’s on River. Ethel returned to Chicago, 5:55 pm.

10th Mrs. Ferry and LT. Frank Ferry arrived at 3:00 pm and stayed for supper. Left at 9:30. Frank expects to be discharged soon.

11th No. 31, Letter from bill dated Aug. 27. Will leave for Rest Camp Aug. 30 to Shillong. May be home by Xmas or next Feb. Nothing sure. Rumors flying thick and fast.

18th Letter from Dick from San Diego. May get his sailing orders any day. Had wonderful leave at home and lake, feels contented and relaxed. Will write for Advance soon. Enjoyed plane ride back thru Texas-N.Mexico-Lower Calif, but scenery not as spectatular as the Grand Canyon.

19th No. 32, Letter from Bill dated Aug. 31 from Shillong, Assam, Rest Camp, “Talk about Paradise – This is it”, Pine trees just like Wisconsin, 6500 feet above sea level, 9 hole golf course, swimming pool, horse-back riding, tennis (Australian Cavalry horses), they ride until you drop. Excellent food = wonderful inner spring mattresses for sleeping.

21st No. 35 letter from Bill dated Sept 11. Missed Nos 33 & 34, no doubt from Shillong. May leave Jorhat by Oct. 1. Destination – Home or Pacific? Glad to hear of Dick’s visit home. Has been reading “Immortal Wife”, (Mrs. John C. Fremont) Kit Carson,Lincoln, etc. Wants me to read it. Sends negatives to develop, expects to get 35 mm, colorfilms before he leaves Jorhat.
Letter from Bill – from Shillong (No. 33) sept. 3 for our Anniversary, Sending or bringing a linen table cloth and dressing table set. Attended service at Welsh Presb. Church with English pastor. Best wishes to “finest parents in the land”
Letter from Dick from San Diego. May go to Pearl soon. Will write again when he gets orders.

24th Letter from Dick San Diego for the Advance. A splendid contribution from a service man. The churches must have done “with internal bickering of a system wherein each sect works more at furthering their interest than a common cause”
Dick, you are so right! More power to you.

25th Letter from Bill No. 37 – Sept 14 – Jorhat, Close base Oct. 1 (?) He now has 450 hrs of the required 750. From now it will be 4 motored C-54’s, perhaps Calcutta to Manilla, Singapore, etc. Hopes to meet Dick out there. He may still fly the Hump, but only 10000 feet foot hills like they have in Colorado. His birthday cake arrived Sept 13—just one month late. We mailed it July 22 – nearly two months enroute. He says it arrived as fresh as the day it left home.

26th Bill left Jorhat today for Kurmitola.
October

1st Letter from Dick dated Sept. 27 – Still at “Dago”. Reports each morning at school. If he stays in service he will take some correspondence courses from Harvard.

2nd No. 38 letter from Bill dated Sept. 20.—Jorhat will close Oct. 1st. No more Hump flying. May transfer to Calcutta. Plays in a soft ball league. Caught a bird that can talk and whistle, for a pet. Use same address for the present.

3rd No. 34 & 39. Two letters from Bill dated Sept. 9 & 22. New address is Kurmitola, near Calcutta OPO No. 433. May leave there Dec. 1st for HOME??? The other letter was almost a month in transit. Describes Rest Camp at Shillong and routes over Hump.
17500 East Bound traffic loaded
22000 West Bound “ empty.

4th Letter from Betty. Home on furlough Friday Oct. 19 will go to Boston Oct. 23. Back to Rockton Nov. 3 with Dilly, driving in her car.

5th Letter from Dick San Diego – Orders may come any day – Plans to take a Correspondence Course in “Economic History of US” –U. of Chicago. This should prove valuable while at sea. Credit will be given at Harvard.

10th Letter from Dick still at Dago awaiting orders.

11th No 36 letter from Bill dated Sept 14 long delay. Has only 450 hours over Hump. Boys with 750 to come home soon. Bill may go to Eastern China or Philipines. His base has 900 ton still to transport. The C-87 bases will be first to close. Sends films of Shillong, race tract, etc.

Letter from Betty. Trip to Denver recently. Home Oct. 19th.

13th No 40,. Letter from Bill last letter from Jorhat – left for Kurmitola Sept. 26 – Spent a day getting sigatures on ost. “Clear the Post”, they call it. Sent negatives of Hump & Schillong. No special plans for Post War – College – Airlines or perhaps an Aeronatical Engineering course? Hope to get home for Christmas. We sent him a Christmas box today, fruit cake, nuts and cards.

15th Letter from Dick. He will board the heavy Cruiser Baltimore Oct. 22 for Navy Day Celebration. It is a beautiful ship. Wants White uniforms for formal attire. Hopes to see Auntie Grace.

16th No. 42. Letter from Bilol dated Oct. 3 from new base Jurmitola, Bengal, India. 125 mi. NE of Calcutta. This base will close Nov. 30/ Pingry’s wife Omro, WI has a baby. Sends Mo $50.00 Hopes to get home for Christmas.

17th No. 44 Letter from Bill, dated Oct. 11, says they may close his base Oct.20 or Nov. 1st and that Kerchi has a transportation schedule to load up CBI men for home trip. We hope so. Went swimming in pool 12 miles from Dacca, capitol of Bengal. Still hopes to be home by Christmas.

18th No. 43. Letter from Bill dated Oct. 5. Expects to be transferred to Kerachi then a trip of 23 days by ship to NY. Kerchi is Port of Embarkation. Hopes to make one trip to Shanghai. Here steak dinners were $55,000 in Chinese money but the waiter may add $10,000 while serving you. $55,000 is 25 cents our money.

22nd Letter from Dick at Long Beach waiting to board the Baltimore. Wonderful visit with Grace, stayed overnight, swapped stories of Ashland. Trip to Brownstone Island where the Warrens, Harry and Grace were marooned for five days and Dad was seasick(?). Expects to be on Baltimore for Navy Day and then for a year of Patrol Duty in the Pacific. Wants for Christmas an anthology of great American speeches including the Bible if there is such a book in print.

24th Card from Betty Galveston, Texas. Swim in Gulf.

29th No. 46. Letter from Bill dated Oct. 17. Now flies a C-54, the pilot’s dream – two sets of throttles for Pilot and Co-Pilot with seat between for the Crew Chief, who checks all guages. In back of the pilot seats is the large compartment for Radio operator and Navigator – then the Crews Quarters with double bunks, lavatory and plug for a electric razor. The passenger or baggage compartment seems like a boxcar in size. He sent us two boxes with linen and Kashmir wool jacket for Pat. Inquires about skating rink for Christmas ???Hope to be here.

31st No. 45 & 47 – Two letters from Bill dated Oct. 16 & 21. Rumor Kermitola may close Oct. 15. He flew 1 C-54 first flight since Sept 10 at Jorhat. Hops to check out as First Pilot on a C-54, even if the transitions keeps him in India a few weeks longer. The second letter, Oct. 21st, says the whole Hump will close Nov. 15, but Kermitola closed Oct. 20. Prospects for Christmas in Rockton are good. High hour pilots are already starting home. The C-54 is a Pilot’s Dream. A beautiful airplane. Will send article for Advance soon.
Wants to have a long talk with us about college when he gets home. Is reading “Basic History of US” by Chas. And Mary Beard a stimulus to “post war thinking and future planning” Good for you Bill, Keep it up!
Longs for a home of his own.
November

2nd Letter from Dick – Enjoyed opera at Los Angeles, “Tristian and Isolde”. Saw Nelson Eddy, Gildersleeve, etc. Will send description of Mustin soon. Will sail Nov. 10 for Tokyo Bay, Shanghai, Expects to be back in States March 1. Enjoyed Mom’s cake and cookies at San Diego. Wonderful!(understatement) Seven other Ensigns on Baltimore who were at Gunfire School. On Navy Day from early morning till late afternoon showed people over ship. At night marched in big parade to Los Angeles Colosseum. Will send picture of Baltimore soon.

9th Dick called 9:00 pm from San Pedro.
No. 49, Letter from Dill dated Oct. 30. Rumors – rumors –??Days rouine – no flying – p at 10:00 am. Read or write letters –chow—spam or Vienna sausage. 1:30-3:30 Base Brawl then Mail Call. Chow in evening – change pictures every other night or game of Pinochle.
Went to church – Sermon “Accentuate the Positive”
Here is an idea for a sermon, ‘The Beacon Light of Life”. Returning from China. The bad weather kills radio contact with ground. Wind drives plane off course, oxygen and gas are running low. Ground Radio stations are able to “shoot a bearing” to plane. You start searching for a beacon light then you see it swinging slowly around as if to say “come on!” In a few minutes your wheels touch the runway and you begin to relax. But if the beacon fails! God is the Beacon of Light

10th (Dick sailed Nov. 10 for Tokyo)

11th Bill writes he heard from Dick on the Baltimore. Wants some data on this type of heavy cruiser..Birthday dinner at Harold Fosters. Cake and ice cream. Betty and Dilly.

12th Mon am Betty and Dilly left for Boston.
No. 50. Letter from Bill dated Nov. 3rd from Kermitola. Sent Mo to Mr. Phelps for church p[ledge. All flying has cessed at K. Nothing to worry about just wait and play base ball. He is on the Regular team. Glad we saw the Ferry, Aunt Deborah writes such wonderful. Hops to visit Frank often this winter. K. is 125 miles NE of Calcutta and 12 mi. N. of Dassa, capitol of Bengal. Sent rill of colored film to Eastman. Bill says he is thankful for one thing – his parents never fret, fume or fuss because the Army or Navy delays in sending the boys home – as some parents do. Quote””This gives me strength, believe me, and I can never thank you enough – All my love, Bill”

16th No. 51 Letter from Bill dated Nov. 7. On way to Shillong, Rest Camp for Ten days. May leave Kermitola bout Dec. 1st – Hopes to get home for Christmas or maybe sometime in january.
20th Took Mom to Beloit Hospital
22nd Jean, Jane & Dad ate Thanksgiving Dinner at Ferry’s as Mom could not go to Walworth.
23rd. Operation showed presence of cancer.
25th Dick arrived Tokyo Bay.

26th No. 52 Letter from Bill dated Nov. 14 at Shillong Rest Camp. Enjoys gulf and Ice Cream twice a day, a luxury in India. No news about transportation home.

27th No. 53 Letter from Bill dated Nov. 18. Back to Shillong. Is asking for C-54 flying service to Kerachi.

30th No. 54. Letter from Bill dated Nov. 21, from Kerachi, where he took 40 men, tractor drivers and mechanics. Flew from Chabua over Jorhat, Shillong, Gaya, Taj Mahal (from height of 8000 ft) Hops to enjoy a swim in Indian Ocean. Inquiring about skating rink in Village Park.
December

3rd Letter from Dick written Nov. 20, 22 & 23 from Baltimore, mailed on 23rd when ship was refueled. Expected to arrive Tokyo Bay 25th – a 15 day trip. Uneventual voyage –enjoyed chapel service on deck. Thanksgiving dinner and watch on deck under tropical stars. Called on Aunty Grace and John’s family before sailing. Wants a book on How To Play Piano, Spinet on board, no one uses it. Thanksgiving service in fantail – very impressive, like North Woods.

5th Nos. 55 & 56. Two letters from Bill, dated Nov. 23 & 27. Menu for Thanksgiving dinner. Heard from Aunt Deborah and Pat.
Waiting for transportation home. Nothing definite. Hops to be on way via ship on Christmas Day. Wants to know all about Dilly.

11th Two telegrams from Dick sent from Pearl Harbor on Baltimore – will be home within a week.

17th Dick phoned from Los Angeles at 10:00 pm. Expects to fly home – arrive Wed. or Thurs.

20th Cable from from Bill sent from India (?) States will be home about Jan. 25, dated Dec. 19, arrived 8:00 am Dec. 20.

24th No. 62 Letter from Bill dated Dec. 14 from Kerachi, India, says he expects to leave about Dec. 18 or 20, may come via Seattle or New York. Is billeted with two majors in army barracks who are very clannish.
January, 1946

1st Roy and Dave’s family at parsonage – did not go to hospital. I went to hospital at 4:30 Mrs/ Eva Brady began night duty Tues night 10:00 to 7:00 am

3rd. Prayer at Hospital for Recovery and Bill’s safe return. Both Mom and I felt happy ad hopeful.

6th Dave and Harriett at Hospital
12th Dick –2:00 to 6:00
Dad 6:00 to 10:00

13th Dad – 2:00 to 6:00
Betty 6:00 to 10:00

14th Betty 3:00 to 6:00
Dick 6:00 to 10:00

15th Harriett at Hospital
Dad 3:00 to 7:00
Betty 7:00 to 10:00
Dick brought Jane at 7:00 for short visit

16th Dick 3:00 to 7:00
Dad 7:00 to 10:00
Jane 6:30 piano lesson – Jean & Jane swim class

17th Betty 3:00 to 6:00
Dad 6:00 to 10:00
Mother sleeps a good deal during the day.
Dick to Chicago 5:55 pm

18th Betty to Chicago 7:00 returned 8:08
Dick returned 11:02
Hospital – Dick 3:00 to 6:00
Dad 6:30 to 10:00

19th Betty 3:00 to 7:00
Dad 7:00 to 10:00
Dick & Jean at 10:00

20th Betty -3:00 to 6:00
Dad 6:00 to 10:00 Good talk, “You are always with me and I’m always with you. “No Matter” Two months ago Mother entered hospital.
Betty to Auntie Grace, Dick to Weihenholphs (Baraboo)

21st Dick to Esther Wells
Dick – 3:00 to 6:00
Dad – 6:00 to 10:00
Report Hawaien Skipper due today at Seattle

22Nd Dick 3:00 to 7:00
Dad 7:00 to 10:00
At 6:30 Bill phoned that he would leave Seattle at 8:00 pm via North West Airway. Mother is growing weaker. I had a nice talk with her for about an hour tonight Ps. 27, 100 & 8

23rd Bill phoned from Mpls for Dick to meet him at Madison at 11:40 am. Thence to hospital. I went up at 2:00 to meet him. Mother was so pleased to see Bill. Dick stayed until 7:00. Bill from 7:00 to 10:00

24th Bill & I to bank
Betty – 3:00 to 5:00
Bill – 5:00 to 7:00
Dad – 7:00 to 10:00

25th Bill & Dick – 5:15 to 5:45
Dick – 3:00 to 6:15
Bill – 6:15 to 10:00
Dad & Bill supper at hospital at 6:00. Wedding at parsonage at9:00, back to hospital at 10:00. A good day for Mother, She was delighted with gifts from India (linens)
26th The Bright Angel comes at 4:00 pm. My five children with Dave & Harriett were with me at the hospital as our beloved entered into the larger life. Our dear nurse Mrs. Marian Searn was also there.

30th Funeral service Old Stone Church, 2:00 pm. Dr. Powell gave a beautiful tribute. Burial at Walworth.

Dave, Harriett, David & Phyllis at parsonage