Feb. 2, 1944

Dear Mom-

Sorry I’m not writing more regular and that those you do get are short and snappy but that’s the system here, everything done half way, I’ve got all the clothes I need, 2 pairs of pants, blouse shirts overcoat etc. What to do with all this stuff is a problem. Why we hang around now I don’t know because we’ve completed just about everything scheduled. The guard house bulletin board has us slated to leave on the 11^th but it’s been changed three times so far and might be changed again so don’t depend on anything definite. You should have my last letter by now with the request for that money. If you haven’t sent it yet please send it immediately because my funds amount to $17.00 now and as yet I haven’t purchased the cap and belt because they’re out of them. I haven’t said anything yet but I got a dose of flu on the range. Had it the day I shot 311-5 points over Expert and record day too. The only way anybody here gets proper attention when they’re sick is if they die in 10 minutes and clutter up the parade grounds or barracks anything but leprosy is casually dismissed. Otherwise, I’m all right – good as new although the sudden deprivation of beer throws me off track some. Think I’ll cash in a couple of war bonds to get enough change to chop it up a bit. Maybe Mary Conley would like some Southern Comfort at Chins or elsewhere. I want to see some bright lights and the music and see people act carefree and playful for a change and that’s about the only way to do it. Art museums and zoos are to quiet. Don’t worry about my misbehaving though. I’ll be all right. All I want is just a taste of the fun I used to have. I’m happy that you are all set though, at least as far as health is concerned- that’s most important to me. Mollie too. As long as she holds up at least partially you’ll be all right. Cleveland must be having another of the nasty winters. Here it’s warmed up considerably compared to what it was before we left for the range. That hoodlum Tom is got something planted someplace. That’s the reason he’s going out every so often. Probably some lady friend. Let me know if your money comes regular. I turned down some war bonds because I don’t want them. I bought 2 quarts of ice cream and gave it all away to some friends so that subtracts 80 cents from my roll also a carton of cigarettes which should last me until I get home. Don’t forget to send the money air and special delivery at the same time. Two 3 cent stamps and one 10 cent special delivery stamp. Have it registered too, so I’ll be sure to get it in a hurry. Make it cash, everything else is red tape.

So if nothing happens I’ll be seeing you soon which is my present greatest ambition. But as I say don’t depend on it when I come it will be a surprise. Say hello to every body for me. Tell Charlie Miller he’s the luckiest guy on the street- these places are good places to stay away from. Tell Donnie I said hello should you run across her. Well hold the fort mom and I’ll do the same here. Like I said send that money if you haven’t sent it already because I have just 9 days left according to schedule. Take care of yourself.

Love

Bun.