January 23, 1944

Hello Mom,

Received your letter a while ago, so I thought I would answer it before bedtime. This writing paper looks pretty good, doesn't it? It just cost me .45.

Well, we didn't get out to that beach today, but they still worked us awful hard. I sweated all day long. The sun was awful hot. They told us we would get to go to the rifle range on Wednesday, so don't be worried if you don't hear from me.

Mom, don't worry, I don't mind paying $6.40 a month for my insurance because if I get killed you all will have a little money. After I get my leave and go to the next camp, I don't care if I have any money or not, but I sure hope I have some money when I get my leave because I'm hoping to have a swell time.

My left foot is still swollen and taped up.

I got that candy and sure was glad to get it. It didn't last long. I don't guess I'll get to celebrate my birthday this year unless I celebrate it marching, and I sure don't want to do that. I was just about to forget my birthday anyway.

I guess Aunt Lucy was tickled to death to hear from George.

I will close for now.

Love,