February 5, 1944

Hello Mom,

Sorry I haven't got to write for 2 or 3 days, but I've been so busy I just haven't had time. When I come in of the evening, I've got to go down and try to learn how to swim.

I got another box of candy from you this morning. That makes two boxes I've gotten from you in the last few days. The candy and cakes sure tasted good, and the box of candy was awful good.

I've done pretty good so far in firing my rifle, but I don't know what I'll do on record day, and that's the day that counts. The rifle has burst my lip twice since I been firing it because it kicks pretty hard. But, I love to shoot it.

Our platoon was on guard duty again night before last, and I had to be on duty for 8 hours, and some of the boys got 16 hours. One of the boys in our platoon asked for a discharge. That beats anything I ever saw. I guess I would take one if they gave it to me, but I sure wouldn't ask for it.

Well Mom, guess I'll close for now. Will write more tomorrow because it is Sunday, and we are off. Thanks a lot for the candy and cakes.

Your son,

Pedue