August 28, 1945 (to Marion Sneen)

Luzon, P.I.

Aug. 28, 1945

Dear Marion:

We just finished a rough & tough volleyball game out there in the hot sun. I feel as though I’m thoroughly baked & just about ready to be served. Care for a bite? S’cuze me for about 5 minutes Marion – Ahh! Much better – just had myself a cool shower, and now I’ve got about a half hour for a chat before I have to stand retreat.

Today we had a field exercise in which our Bn. shot over the heads of the doughboys. As I guess I told you, I’m Bty. Exec. now, & that means I’m in charge of the Firing Btry. & control all firing at the guns. Don’t think I didn’t sweat each and every round that I shot today. If I’d ever mess up & drop one short into the doughfeet I’d never forget it – especially now that the war is over. In the first place we have no business going out on such a dangerous field problem now that we’re not playing for “keeps” anymore. But that’s the army – they think peace is just another vicious rumor.

It rained hard all last night, so this morning going into position we bogged down about three trucks. We got them out as we always do – nothing stops the army as you folks back there must realize by now. The mud reminds me of a saying I heard once, “There are only three things that are definite in this world. There will always be death – always be taxes – and always be mud where the army goes.” How true!

Your last letter, Marion, was dated Aug. 8 – and right on time. Let me commend you on your prompt letter writing. Guess I don’t let you know very often how much your letters are appreciated, Marion, but it’s really hard for me to put the right expressions down on paper. Some day in the not too distant future (we hope), I’ll be home where I can give you a little better idea of what I mean. Lessee – what’s that phone number? Oh yes – Dupont 3415. Hm – thought I’d forgotten didn’t you? Well, what d’you think I carry this little black book around with me for?

No, Marion, I haven’t read Forever Amber as yet & probably won’t bother with it. Not that I’m above reading such stuff for a thrill now & then, but several of the boys who have read it claim it’s strictly filthy and nothing else. I do like a little plot in my reading and not all climaxes.

You’ve been a pretty good girl lately according to you letters – if I can believe them? So guess I’ll get on the wagon myself and send you something you’ve been asking for. What am I being so mysterious for – I’m talking about the 4 pictures I’m sending in this letter. Hope you like.

Gonna say g’night now – do you mind? You’re s’posed to say yes. – But I’ve gotta go anyway cuz it’s time for retreat. Stay well & be good.

Love, Dip

x (don’t blush – let me)