January 8, 1944

January 8, 1944
Parris Island
Sat. Evening

Hello Mom and Dad
Here I am again. Just got off guard duty and ate chow. Or should I say supper. They call it chow here. I had it pretty easy today. I had to stay on guard duty 2 hours. We drilled a little today but not much.

No, Mom, my cough isn't any better. I've been to the doctor twice, and he just gave me some aspirin and some kind of medicine, but it seems like it made me worse. I like to cough myself to death when I hit the bed. Sometimes I can't hardly sleep. But, don't worry, I'm going to get rid of it if I have to go to sick bay and stay until I get rid of it.

Yes, it is pretty tough here, but you know me -- I'm a man and I can handle it. haha Tom doesn't like it here very well, but I don't mind it myself. I have to learn to swim before I get out of boot camp. I've got to swim 50 yards. I guess I can learn.

I got an x-ray and four shots, and my arm is sore, but that's ok. Don't worry about me because I'm man enough to take anything they give me.

I am sending my clothes home tomorrow. Tell Dad to wear the shoes if he can because they won't do me any good.

Well, Mom, I guess I will close for now. I still have to write Jewell and Betty. Tell Dad I will write and tell him how they treat us. I will write to him tomorrow, which is Sunday. Tell all the family hello for me.

Your son,
"Pedue"

p.s. I got your letter this evening and also a letter from Jewell.

I wish Dad wouldn't go out to work when he is sick. It will make him worse.