Australia July 12^th, 1943

Sgt A.C. Meredith 13032567

432^nd Fighter Squadron

475^th Fighter Group

A.P.O. 923

c/o Postmaster San Francisco Calif.

Dear Mom, Dad & Marie,

Well here I am again with my second letter to you from the 432^nd. Things with me are just fine at the present and the job is really great. A few days ago I was not feeling so well, but I soon left that behind and now I feel great.

Both of your letters with the pictures have arrived and I was mighty pleased to receive them. Dad sure looks fine, as does Frank. “Tops” sure is getting old, isn’t she?

But the pictures of Marie just stopped me cold! I can’t say just how I felt when I saw them because I can’t describe the feeling. I guess the best way for me to put it is – a big lump came in my throat. She’s lovely!

A letter came from Frank and as usual it was good. He does write interesting letters and I always look forward to them. In a way I am sorry that the army would not accept him, but as you said one is a plenty.

I have been on the lookout for Jim. In fact I met a Lt., who knew him back in Columbia. I can’t say that I wish to see him, unless it is in the states.

Back again to Marie – it was great news to hear that she had received the Bagley medal as well as an Attendance medal and right here I will say congratulations. I think you all have earned a trip to Cleveland and I hope you will enjoy every minute of it.

From where I sit, it seems that Kitty Lord sure is rushing things since the Jim Clark lad took the leap in St. Louis. How about it? And Ann Kersey with a diamond. I am getting old.

Well these are my comments for this time from, “the land down under,” but I will try to write soon again. Don’t worry about me as I am perfectly safe and in good health. Also don’t put too much dependence in that 18 months business, besides on August 12^th my 18 will be up. You see time starts the day you leave the States. So look for me when you see me and rest easy that one of these days I will be seeing you all.

All my love –

Aubrey