ARNOLD CHARLES ELCHLEPP
ARNOLD CHARLES ELCHLEPP  Letters Home -- November 7 1942 Guadalcanal: to December 25 Italy 1943

This is a WWII story about my Dad, his two brothers and two brothers in law in their own words and letters written home to their families.   Dad is Vern Bartholomew in the Army Military Police. His brothers are  Carl Bartholomew   a Sherman tank commander in the 14th Armored Division, and Kenny Bartholomew who strung communication wires all over the Atlantic Theatre of war grounds.   Most of the letters were written by 1st Lt Arnold Charles Elchlepp, Dad’s brother in law, written home to his family from both the Pacific and Atlantic theatres: every day and every month from 1942 to 1943. Another brother in law is Tony Wilkes,  Tec 5, who served his entire military career in the Pacific. Dad worked in the Civilian Conservation Corp from April 8 1934 to January 1 1936, planting trees, wild rice, and erosion control and building roads in the wilderness.  He sent almost all the $30 per month money he made back home to his parents Bill and Clara Bartholomew who lived at 211 West 31, Minneapolis MN. From 1936 to 1944 he and his brother Carl worked at the Ford Plant in St Paul MN building farm machinery and automobiles for $100 per month.  Vern then decided to work in the Minneapolis Police force from 1944 eventually retiring as Sergeant in 1965 at $757 per month.This is a photo of Hubert Horatio Humphrey and Dad at work chaufering Hubert who was then Mayor of Minneapolis.  Hubert'slife and family was in danger so the Captain of the Minneapolis police chose dad to a 24 hour duty to protect Hubert because Dad neither drank, nor smoked, was a devoted religious Catholic, and the toughest cop on the force. Almost at the start in the police force he was asked to settle trouble at a Chinese restaurant being caused by two Japanese.  They resisted arrest by Dad and he had to fight them to subdue them for the paddy wagon to pick them up. Dad is almost always a pleasant person to be friends with unless people decide to see how tough they are; a big mistake because Dad was a light heavy weight boxing champ in golden gloves. The military was in control in the United States at this time and the Army wanted Dad to testify against the two Japanese.  But Dad said they will have their chance in a Hennepin County court.  However the Army wanted those two to appear in a Military Court. Therefore the Army Court Martialed my Dad INTO the Army and made him testify there.  Now dad is in the Army so they made him an M.P. for the duration of WW II.  He won the all Army Welterweight Boxing Championship while he was there. Uncle Arnold Charles Elchlepp was a very good swimmer with championship medals and trophies from 1938 to 1941.  One of the letters he sent was from The Commander Hotel in Cambridge Massachusetts.  Then he went to Harvard for a swimming meet.  While in Washington D.C. he had lunch with congressman Youngdahl and Cedric Adams. The letter is postmarked March, 25 1942.  This is the beginning of several hundreds of letters his Mom and Dad saved from Arnie’s travels. Dear mom and dad, Mary, Helen. Charlie. & etc;   We finally made it to Harvard.  We stayed all day yesterday in Washington.  I saw quite a lot of the town while I was there.  They have guns on all the gov't buildings and air raid shelters all over.  They had the air raid sirens going yesterday for a while.  I had lunch with congressman Youngdahl and Cedric Adams.  I had dinner at Mrs Crislers house last night.  They have moved out to 3937 SE S street.  They have a very nice apartment.  It's brand new.  Mr Crisler was away to Chicago.   Well, I have to go over to the pool now so I'll see you later.   Arnie I am also including two Navy Admirals who played such an important part in WWII also: Admirals Earnest Joseph King  and Willis August Lee Jr. “ching lee”.   It was King who planned bombing Japan using the Hornet with B25s which will be called the Doolittle Raid on April 18, 1942. Admiral King also forged the plan to attack Guadalcanal with marines where Uncle Arnie eventually arrived to relieve exhausted marines after 4 months of battle securing the air base now known as Henderson Field.  Admiral Lee won several gold medals in the 1920 Olympics for rifle and pistol shooting.  That will figure later in this narrative of one of Arnie’s nephew’s medals in speed skating swimming, running and winning the US Modern Pentathlon competition.   Admiral Lee was assigned by Admiral King to the battleship Washington where Lee defeated the Japanese in a night battle leading to Japanese withdrawal from Guadalcanal permanently which was Japan’s first loss of an entrenched military base.  In 1942 Arnie joined the 410th Army Signal Corps, Wold Chamberlin Airport at Ft Snelling then travelled from San Francisco to the South Pacific eventually landing at Guadalcanal to help relieve the marines there. His first mention of this trip was on the ship Klipfontein.  He wrote on just about any stationery he could find.  The ship stopped for a while in New Caledonia.  This place is mentioned many times during the next 4 months as a place he went to time and again never knowing where their final destination would be.  That was a well-kept secret only the top brass knew and they weren’t telling. Klipfontein Thursday November 5 1942 . “This Morning we picked up four more troop transports and an aircraft carrier loaded with planes.  That makes our convoy a total of nine ships.  The sea is quite rough.  I’ve never seen such a beautiful blue as the water here in the expansive Pacific just as though you put bluing in the water.  Everyone seems to be feeling better today.  I and Warren Asher, a friend from Minneapolis spent the better part of the day in the PX (post exchange) eating crackers and drinking cokes. The guns on board shot a few rounds at a target towed by a plane.  Tonight we set our watches back 30 minutes.  The poker games and dice tables are going as strong as ever.  A plane from the carrier just went up on patrol.  It’s been quite cloudy today.  I looked at pictures of my sis Mary, Ruby, Adair and things I like to remember and hope that this is all soon over so that I can resume my former way of living.  This is such a drastic change from my way of living.  Nothing gradual about it.  In the span of a little over a three week period I have traveled nearly a quarter of this around the world. At the end of the month I will have gone close to half way around the globe.  The day is drawing to a close so I had better prepare for bed.  It’s a blue night so I believe I will sleep on deck this night.      Goodnight  all’s well. Friday November 6 1942 I wakened early this morning after sleeping on deck all night.  I straightened up my bunk a bit and then made an attempt at washing.  I say attempt to wash because there isn’t any hot water, such as it is the water is salt and impossible to lather.  After that ordeal Warren and I proceeded to the aft deck where the PX is located and found ourselves a comfortable spot.  We then proceeded on our usual daily diet of soda crackers and cokes.  I never knew a coke could taste so delicious as the one I first had on the boat. I was ready for another one.  The guns on board had practice again today. We were supposed to have tetanus shots today but that was put off until tomorrow. I read some this afternoon.  There was really a beautiful rainbow today after a brief shower. They tell me that the ship immediately in back of us has 300 army nurses headed for Australia.  I feel the best today since I started this voyage. We got our first edition of the ship paper today. It is a one sheet affair edited by the ship Chaplain.  With reporters from each CO. It contains daily incidents of the day along with jokes, etc. After dark there is no smoking, all lights on deck are to be out, and as far as I know there is no communication between ships in the convoy.  The type of communication in the day is heliograph (blinker international code). The radio is not used because of fear of enemy subs picking up our position.  Incidentally our ship Klipfontein is the flagship of the convoy.   So ends another day. Tomorrow is another day.       Saturday November 7, 1942 I slept on deck again last night.  I arose early because the Javanese crew wanted to wash the deck. It was really hot today.  I school of flying fish were sighted off our port bow.  They are a beautiful fish being about 8 to 10 inches long with a blue back and silver belly.  They have two sets of transparent wings which move in rapid succession when they fly above the water a very few inches.  I did some reading again today and had a gab fest with some of the other fellows. This afternoon a group of us were called together and told we were going to make up the message center of the company when we landed.  I thought we were headed for New Caledonia but our commanding officer said that was a lot of Hooey.  New Caledonia So now I don’t know where I am at.  We were given a pocket guide to Australia, if that means anything.  We had a tetanus shot today.  I’m so full of holes from shots I feel like a pin cushion.      That’s all.  Goodnight.  All’s well. November 9 1942 I layed around most of the morning till 11:30 and then I went to church services for Catholics in the officers’ lounge. We did not have regular the regular mass but we did sing a couple of hymns and say the rosary and the litany of the blessed virgin. The lounge is a beautiful place with huge lounge chairs a piano, checkers chess, and card tables. It is reserved for officers, however. It’s very hot today under the tropical sun.  I’ve been sleeping on deck every evening because it is too hot in the hold to sleep in any comfort. We are getting further away from home all the time.  At this point I could easily stand some good old home cooking. The food on board isn’t too good.  I eat as little as possible to keep me going.  I’ll sign off for the day.                                                  Good night.  All’s well. Monday November 10, 1942 I was awakened at 04:30 this morning to go on K.P. duty.  We worked until 8 in the evening.  The work wasn’t too hard but it was so hot in the hold that your clothes wilted on you.  A shark was spotted today and was shot at by some of the officers.  During the day a couple of rain showers came up.  Today I got a shot for bubonic plague.                                          This ends another day.  Goodnight.  All’s well. Tuesday November 11, 1942 Today is Armistice Day and we had a program with everyone in their suntan uniform.  It was quite impressive.  This afternoon a plane flew over the ship at an extremely low altitude and dropped a message for the captain of the ship.  I imagine it had something to do with our destination.  The day was spent reading and playing cards. The cooks on this ship have a knack for ruining food that might be alright if prepared correctly.  I really miss home cooking and baking of mom’s.  I’m just waiting for the day I can get back to that.  As yet, we have not sighted land.  I’m beginning to wonder if I ever will.  I like water but I like it a little nearer land. I wonder if the Ice Follies are going.  I suppose not so good since their number one fan left the United States and is so far away.  Then again, they have two of the very best skaters to keep them going.  They of course are my sisters Helen and Mary Elchlepp.  This boat is rocking to much and it makes it hard to write.  For dinner this evening we had chicken.  It probably hit a new low in the fine art of cooking.  Darkness is closing in and it really closes fast.                      The end of a not too perfect day.  Good night, all’s well. Saturday November 14, 1942 We were awakened at 4:30 this morning for an alert.  Nothing happened except we passed another ship which was going in the opposite direction. A plane from our cruiser flew over again today and dropped a message.  We have been taking quite a zigzag route today.  The day was about the usual routine, drills, inspection, exercises.  This afternoon I got into a blackjack game.  I started with 30 cents and ran it into 6 dollars and fifty cents.  I hope the folks aren’t too much worried about me.  I miss them too.  But it can’t be helped.  We will all be together soon.  It is swell to hear that Eddie Rickenbacker was rescued. I’ve always admired him.  I wonder how sis Helen is doing.  I suppose she is doing fine.  She seems to be able to get along with anyone. The day has been awfully windy.  It is a pleasant change from the terrific heat.  One nice thing about these alerts each morning and evening is that you see the beautiful sunset and sunrise over the Pacific. Tomorrow - K.P.                     Goodnight, all’s well. Sunday November 15, 1942 I am going to make it short today because I have been on K.P. all day and am kinda tired.  We had some chicken today that was eatable and I even ate some. We had some rain today.  The same little intermittent showers we have been having.  The boat to the rear of us had a fire today but it seems to be alright.                      Goodnight, all’s well. Monday, November 16, 1942 The morning started off with a squall and then it got hotter than blazes.  One of the transports turned away then dropped back. The cruiser dropped back with it.  I guess they developed motor trouble or something.  The whole convoy slowed up today until late afternoon to wait for that boat.  The ocean is the calmest it has been since we left Frisco.  There isn’t a white cap in sight. Several large porpoises were seen.  I spent the most of the day playing cards.  This Fontein is a great help.  I really don’t know what I would do without it.  The Ice Follies should be leaving Wash D.C. today or tomorrow.      Another day gone.  Goodnight,  all’s well. Tuesday, November 17, 1942 Today three of our convoy dialed off in a different direction and left us.  The rest of the ships changed positions. We also sighted a couple of boats going away from us.  I got into a poker game today and won fifteen dollars.  We should be somewhere near the Samoan Islands or the Fiji Islands.  I hope we sight land soon.  I’ve seen enough water to last me awhile.  The sun is setting so I will close for now.      Goodnight, all’s well. Wednesday November 18, 1942 Today land was sighted.  It was quite a distance away, but it did look good. Just before we sighted land the aircraft carrier left us and went in a different direction.  A destroyer came out from the island and escorted the carrier.  We are less one more ship.  Another ship was sighted off our starboard side going East.  Last night we had another alert and it was the real thing.  A submarine was heard in the vicinity and we were all called below deck until the all clear was sounded.  I was sleeping on deck at the time and was awakened to go below. At this moment there is an Island on our port side.  It has two very large hills or mountains on it. I hope soon we see land dead ahead.         That’s all for now.  Goodnight, all’s well. Friday November 20 1942 Today is Friday, although yesterday was Wednesday.  The reason is that we crossed the International Date Line and gained a day.  We are 18 hours ahead of Frisco time.  We are quite near our destination.  Another ship left our convoy today.  I hope the folks aren’t too much worried about me.  I’m alright except I have lost a little weight.  I left Hamilton Field on a Sunday and haven’t heard from home since the Wednesday before.  I hope nothing is wrong.  I hope I can send a cable home when I land.  We had some boxing matches today.  I have to get ready for the alert.  So I’ll call it a day.   Goodnight and all’s well. Saturday November 21 1942 Another routine day, except that we got paid five dollars, it’s supposed to be for spending money for when we land.  By tomorrow at this time we should know a little more of our destination.  I feel a little homesick today.  I wonder how Charlie is doing.  I imagine he is quite the little man now and talking like mad.  MaryKay must be on her way up too.  I wish I could see them both.  Maybe I will who knows.  I’m kinda sick of the army and everything to do with it but I will get over that.  I guess that must be a natural feeling with everyone who has been in the army only a short while.  I had better sleep it off.                                              Goodnight.  All’s well that ends well, I guess. Sunday November 22, 1942 Spent most of the day on K.P. of all the darn days to be on K.P!  We sighted our destination today, New Caledonia, about noon. Toward evening we at last anchored in the bay.  The topography is beautiful from here.  There are many other ships in the bay, army transports, battleships, destroyers, cruisers, and carriers.  It looks like the whole navy is here!  I don’t know when we will land, soon I hope.  I wrote a letter home, one to Ruby, one to Mary and Helen.  I don’t know how long it takes to get to them.  It is hard to comprehend the change that has taken place in my life since October 10, 1942, the day of my induction into the army.  I hope I will get a chance at the army air corps here.  It’s another day gone by, so I’ll close for now.                                      Goodnight, all’s well. Monday, November 23, 1942 We have been in the bay all day and it looks as though we might be here another day or so.  I’m beginning to wonder if this is our destination.  It was very hot today, all the better for my tan.  I won a little money in a blackjack game this afternoon.  There isn’t any place to spend your money.  The PX is closed for inventory.  I would give any amount for some of mom’s home cooking.  Another day gone.  The moon is beautiful coming over the mountains.                                                                       Goodnight.  All’s well. Tuesday November 24, 1942 Another hot day.  Early this morning I saw a huge school of rather large fish swimming under the boat.  I would like to catch some just for sport.  I stayed in a nice cool spot most of the day reading.  Lt. Bush told us something of the island this morning.  He didn’t paint to good a picture, with his talk about coral snakes, boa constrictors, pythons, and Jap guerrillas.  Late this afternoon I got a very pleasant surprise for a change.  I received 4 letters one from mom, one from Auntie Mary, One from Helen.  She is having quite a time with the troupe.  The fourth letter was from Clyde which was quite a surprise in itself.  It was a great relief to hear from home.                          So ends another day.  Goodnight, all’s well. Wednesday, November 25, 1942 Early this … we hoisted anchor and moved into the dock and tied up to another ship.  We don’t land till tomorrow, however.  We were each given two cartons of cigarettes as a present from out C.O.  To bad I don’t smoke, I could well afford to but I’ve gone this far without them I guess I can go without them the rest of the time. This afternoon we got bubonic plague shots.  Sunday November 29, 1942 After breakfast this morning the CO went swimming at a place in the stream which is farther down the stream then the first place I went.  It is really a better place to swim because the water runs in depth from 6 to 12 feet deep.  The sides are of rock and quite steep.  The only trouble with the setup being the distance from our camp.  After lunch a fellow by the name of Henry Musser and myself went deer hunting.  We didn’t get a deer but had a nice walk in the mountains.  We ran across a mountain stream which was really beautiful.  It had clear, deep pools in it.  Of course I promptly took off my clothes and went in.  We followed the stream up quite a ways and as a result missed dinner. This evening I made a fire and I and a few fellows had a little bull session.  I wrote a letter home tonight. Monday November 30, 1942 I was on K.P. duty at our camp today.  This afternoon I went over to the airfield to talk to my sailor friends.  They are both plane captains which means they each have a plane to take care of to see that it is gassed, and oiled, etc.  Their planes are Grumman wildcats otherwise known as F4F’s.  They let me sit in the cockpit of one of their planes.  The instruments are really intricate.  The pilot is surrounded by instruments.  Most of these planes have seen action and have zeros to their credit.  There are patches in the fuselage and wing where the enemy scored hits.  A good many of these wildcats are from the carrier Hornet which was sunk (damaged) in the Coral Sea battle.  I was told that Jimmy Doolittle took off from the carrier Hornet when they made their raid on Tokyo last spring.  The planes overhead are continually having practice dogfights never quite knowing when it might be the right thing.  The sun is going down in the ocean. So ends another day. Tuesday December 1 1942 I spent most of the mourning writing letters.  I wrote one to each, Clyde, Helen, and Bernie.  We are allowed to send one letter a day.  I hope I get some mail soon.  This afternoon Henry Musser and I again went hunting and saw two deer and took two shots, both misses.  They were to far away for a good shot.  This evening I listened to a short wave broadcast from Frisco and heard Fred Warring and his band.  I’m really getting a very dark tan… Wednesday December 2 1942 I wrote a letter to Alair today.  Today is her birthday.  I should have written sooner but I didn’t get around to it till just today.  We are still playing soldier here.  We are more like a bunch of boy scouts than soldiers. The CO doesn’t seem to know what the score it.  I went for a swim this afternoon.  I wish they would let us go more.  This evening I listened to some transcribed programs of Red Skelton and T. Dorsey.  That ended another day.  Thursday December 3, 1942 This morning I went on a detail for some construction work.  After lunch I took off and went swimming.  We moved to a new campsite today.  We will be living in squad tents instead of these shelter halves.  We will also have cots instead of the bare ground to sleep on. We are still playing soldier.  We are not functioning as a Signal Company, but more as a bull gang doing work for everyone but ourselves.  We are the laugh of the whole island with our tin soldier antics.  There are a good bunch of men here but very poor leadership.  I didn’t think there was so much politics in the army but it didn’t take long to find out differently.  I don’t pretend to be a politician and don’t intend to become one. I sent money today for Christmas presents for the whole family and Ruby and Alair.  I ordered them from a catalog that was sent to us.  The articles looked nice in the photos but I like to see an article before I buy it.  Under the circumstances I couldn’t do anything else.  I bought $41.37 worth of presents.  I hope they are satisfactory.  Friday December 4, 1942 Started the morning off on a jackass detail.  It’s a construction detail.  I went to see the Chaplin this morning to see if I could get any satisfaction from him about transferring from this CO to the air corps flying cadet school, but he wasn’t to optimistic.  He didn’t build up my hopes any, but he said he would look into the matter for me and see what he could find out concerning the transfers.  No mail as yet. Saturday December 5th, 1942 Again I am on the jackass detail to start the day.  After lunch it began to rain cats and dogs! That did not excuse us from work, however.  Every one of us were chilled to the bone.  We worked right up till four-forty five.  I guess it is true that we are expendable.  If a man breaks down he can always be replaced, just like a machine.  I put on some dry clothes when I got back and managed to wrangle a cup of coffee from the cooks, and in that way “thawed” out a little.  Tonight about 11:30 I was awakened and told to report to the radio tent.  There I was told that we were going to set up a message center.  It seems the rain broke down the teletype system at the airfield and we had to set up communications immediately with Numea.  I go on the 4:00 shift tomorrow so back to bed again. Sunday December 6, 1942 It rained like mad again today.  The mud is just like glue.  This morning before breakfast I and three other fellows stood the officers in a game of touch football.  We won two to one.  This evening four of us went out in search of fresh beef.  We split up into twos. I and my buddy henry Musser, shot a heifer and then we cleaned the beef and hung it up for the night.  When we got back to camp we found out there was an alert on. It seems the enemy was sighted out about 150 miles.  We were each issued 5 rounds of ammunition.  A blacked out area was ordered.  I am on guard duty until tomorrow.  In the morning we will have to go out and quarter the beef and bring it in. That will really be a treat, fresh beef.  The mosquitoes are really prevalent here.  They are of the dive-bomber type.  They pick an objective and then go into a screaming dive.  There won’t be any formations until the alert is over, consequently no revile in the morning. Monday December 7 1942 The war is one year old today.  I hope by this time next year it will be over. This morning we went out to get the beef.  We skinned and quartered it and brought it in for dinner we had steaks.  We also had more rain today. The main “road” into camp is one big puddle.  The mud is just like glue. It sticks to you and has to be scraped off with a knife. Today is payday. I received 37 dollars and 99 cents.  My debts were 26 dollars and money owed to me amounted to 17 dollars which left me 28 dollars.  I made a little money playing poker. Went on guard duty until twelve. It’s not bad except the mosquitoes are terrific and as I mentioned before are of the dive-bomber type. I got  a V mail from Tot White today.  It was very nice to hear from her.  She writes an interesting letter.  Tuesday December 8 1942 This morning I went on guard duty from 8 until noon. This afternoon was spent straightening up around my tent area and driving out some of the mosquitoes.  I made about 125 dollars today gambling today, which is the most I have ever made gambling. I guess it was just my lucky day. I wrote a letter to Tot White today.  I wish I could hear from home soon.  I’m a bit worried. I suppose back home there is plenty of snow about now.  This is really a different December then to the ones I’ve been accustomed to. The mercury is soaring now.  I’m swimming and of course there is no snow. I’ve never known anything but cold and snow at this time of the year but I’m certainly experiencing the direct opposite!  I wish I were home playing in that good old snow.  But I’m afraid I will have to put that off for a while.  Wednesday December 9, 1942  It’s a nice warm day today.  I would like to get out and absorb some of that sunshine I spent the day around camp writing letters.  This afternoon I got a letter from home. It was postmarked November 8 1942.  It was a relief to hear from the folks.  Of course they haven’t heard from me at the time the letter was written, but it was a relief anyway. I heard some talk about the message center moving into town (Numea) soon.  There isn’t much to do around camp but read and write and gamble to keep one busy.  Sunday Henry Musser and myself are going our deer hunting all day.  I suppose if the message center does move into town I won’t go with them. Although I hope so.  Living conditions might be a little better in town, at least it would be a place where I could put on suntans once in awhile and feel a little dressed up.  It would put a little confidence in a man or what have you.  I get awfully sick of wearing these fatigue uniforms.  That is life I guess, but what a life! That’s about enough griping for one day so I’d better turn in and try to sleep it off.  Thursday December 10 1942 The day was about the same as the others…routine.  The camp was going about the usual business and the same thing with the personnel.  Nothing much happened until this evening when I got thirteen letters at mail call.  It was a very pleasant surprise.  I got one letter from each; Alair, the Thomas twins, Ensign Johnny Schell, Pearl, Bernie, Betty, and Jackie Perky and seven from mom.  I sat up all the early part of the night reading them by candle light.  My color slides were included in one of mother’s letters.  That in itself was a nice surprise, as yet the folks haven’t received any of my letters written wince I landed with all those letters and my color slides I went to bed quite happy.  It’s funny what a letter can do. Friday December 11, 1942 I spent the greater part of the day answering my letters and looking at my slides over and over again.  The day was very warm.  I sat in the sun writing for several hours.  Aside from that the day went along the same as usual.  I did a little work in the message center so ends this day. Sunday December 13, 1942 Up at five for K.P.  I went to church at eight o’clock.  This afternoon I got off for a while and went swimming.  I did several dives off the bridge which runs over the stream.  It is about thirty five feet high.  After the swim, back to camp to work, and then after supper to bed.  P.S. our volleyball team on which I play beat the 13th air depot two out of three games.  There is a return match with them Monday night. Monday December 14, 1942 After breakfast this morning I and for other fellows went out deer hunting with the usual success…nothing.  Before we got out very far it began to rain quite hard.  After tramping around the woods and mountains we ended up near a native hut and being rather hungry went in to see if he could fix us up with a bite to eat.  He was very friendly and gave us some bread and tea.  The bread was a bit flat but was good under the circumstances.  The natives were working a mine at the time we asked them.  The mine was across the stream from their home so one of them rowed us across in a small boat.  The house itself was of a log frame covered with bark of the Trioli Tree, which incidentally is the native tree of New Caledonia.  In return for the meal we gave him some cigarettes and a little money.  This evening our volleyball team attain plated the Eighth Air depot in volleyball.  We beat them two out of two this time.  One of the games we were down 17 to 7 then and rallied to win the game from them.  I got a letter and a greeting card from mom today. Tuesday, December 15, 1942 Started the day on a truck unloading detail.  I wrote a couple of letters this morning.  This evening after supper sergeants McGuire, Ames and McFarland and myself had a couple of rubbers of bridge.  Sergeant Ames was my partner.  On a two spade bid we set them or rather we made five doubles.  This evening we started to play volleyball but the game was broken up by a meeting of forty men who were to comprise the group which was to go into town tomorrow.  I didn’t know I was to go till this evening.  My job will be clerk in the message center.  Maybe I will finally get started doing something.  After the meeting I and another fellow made a five and had a cup of coffee and a fruit cocktail which we “acquired”.  I got to bed quite late but it was such a beautiful evening I hated to let it go completely to waste.  Sunday December 14, 1942 at camp Jeanne, New Caledonia Took off from KP for awhile this morning to go to church.  I went to a French church on the hill.  It is an immense building quite beautiful.  After church I went back to resume my KP duty and so on into the afternoon.  The Java boys were taken by the police today for questioning in regard to their breaking contracts.  They are brought here from Java under contract to the French Gov’t for 5 years.  They would rather work for the Americans so they take off and do so.  They are paid the equivalent of 7 to 20 cents a day for work in mines (paid by the month) they work in shifts of 14 hours a day.  I don’t feel to good this evening.  My stomach is in a little upset.  Good night. Wednesday December 15, 1942 The day started with more rain.  I wrote some letters and read a little.  That about used up the morning.  This afternoon I helped unload a truck load of radio equipment.  It was just another routine day with no significant events.  We don’t go into town till tomorrow.  No mail in from town today. This evening I listened to the bell telephone hour.  It was certainly good to hear that program again.  It used to be one of my favorites back home.  Oscar Levant was guest soloist for the evening He played Chopin’s waltz in “C” sharp minor.  After the program I helped unload three more trucks of equipment. Thursday December 17, 1942 The morning was spent in getting my things together to move into town.  We left for Noumeia after lunch.  On the way in I saw two trucks that had gone over the embankment.  The road is very winding and there are many sharp curves.  I also saw many different fruit trees and some very beautiful vegetation.  After arriving at our camp, which is near the center of town, we set up a few tents and moved in.  We are staying with the first Island Command Headquarters squadron.  It looks like a pretty good setup.  There is running water, a nice mess hall, showers and excellent food.  For dinner we had Italian spaghetti and it was really good.  You can eat all you want and then some.  After dinner I straightened up my bunk and then played cards with some of the fellows in the squadron.  The name of the camp is camp Jeanne. Friday December 18, 1942….at camp “Jeanne” No reveille this morning or any morning while we are here!  We had a very good breakfast of hot cakes and ham.  This afternoon I went downtown to have a look around.  There isn’t a lot there, but it is a change from the field.  You can see many different troopers in town French, New Zealand, Aussie, French Colonials and many others.  The vegetation is really beautiful.  Large trees with big bright red blossoms, coconut palms and many fruit bearing trees of which I don’t know the names.  I hope my Kodachrome’s film comes soon so I can photograph some of this.  This evening there was a dance at camp with a 12 piece marine band, it wasn’t bad at all. Saturday, December 19, 1942 On KP today.  I’ve been on KP in every camp I’ve been in from Snelling to here and I must say this is the easiest KP I’ve served.  All we do is serve the food.  The camp employs some Javenese to do the scrubbing and the washing.  This afternoon I went over to the ocean to take a look at the pool build out in the ocean.  The idea of the pool in the ocean is to prevent the entrance of sharks and other unwanted quests.  There are two spring boards and a five meter tower.  The spring boards are one and two meters heights.  I want to go in at the soonest possible time.  On the way home I saw some more flowers.  They grow all over.  There are many different varieties.  This evening I and about six other fellows had a bull session in my tent.  I showed them my pictures and then we talked about everything from the war to women.  Then to bed.  I hope we stay at this camp for a while.  I like it a lot.  The officers are just the opposite of ours they are go-getters and look out for their men primarily.  On KP again tomorrow.  We are on KP a week at a time here instead of the usual one day. Monday December 21, 1942 at camp Jeanne New Caledonia Another day on KP.  I got a tip from a fellow today that sounded pretty good.  He said that applications for flying cadet training were open and he gave me names of the officers I should see.  I hope something comes of it.  No harm in trying.  The day passed without much interest.  The early part of the day was cool and raining.  This evening very mild.  I went over the hill to the marine camp tonight to see a movie.  It was Leslie Howard in “Mr. V”.  I’ve seen it before but it was a good picture so I was it again.  It’s the first movie I’ve seen since I left Hamilton field and I had only seen one there.                      That’s all Goodnight. Tuesday December 22, 1942 at camp Jeanne New Caledonia Started the day on KP for the 3rd day of the week of KP.  At noon we had a mail call.  I got 14 letters.  1 from Tot, Aunty Mary, sis Mary, Ruby, Bob Swanson, Bingo Hovde, A censor named Jerry Conway, Jackie (2) 8 from home and one from Ken.  Mother has received my first letters and I know she feels very much relieved.  The letter from the censor was quite a surprise.  He knows Bill Webster’s dad quite well. It happens that he eats here and one of the cooks knows him, so at dinner he introduced him to me and we had a talk.  He knows Alair and everyone at the “V”club.  He is going to take a letter of mine and send it thru so the folks know where I am.  I thought that was pretty swell.  This evening I went to another movie it was the dead end kids in something or other.                              That’s all Goodnight Friday, Christmas, 1942 at camp Jeanne New Caledonia Started early again on KP.  Took off at 9 to go to mass at 10:00. It was a very impressive ceremony.  Back again to work.  We had a very nice Turkey dinner today.  It hardly seems like Christmas as I’ve known it.  In fact it was exactly opposite of former Christmas. Instead of snow we had blazing sun, instead of having with the family I’m about as far away as I can get.  Maybe next year it will be different.  This evening I went to a show.  It was Kay Francis in something or other.  It was a B rate picture but I enjoyed it.  It is another beautiful tropical moonlit night.  That’s all for this Christmass.                      Goodnight Saturday December 26 1942  in camp Jeanne New Caledonia I really felt free today!  No KP or anything till 3 this afternoon.  This morning 4 or 5 of us went swimming at the ocean pool.  It was really nice.  The water was cool.  It was really salty you could first layout on the water and float as lazy as nothing.  After chow this noon I walked around town.  The saying that “it’s a small world” repeated itself to me today.  I had just taken my sun glasses to the optometrist to have the rim repaired and was walking back toward HQ when I passed a marine.  He looked back then I looked back and we walked toward each other.  It was Dean Salisbury! He and I went to high school together and Mary and Bernie used to skate together.  He is stationed here too.  It’s really a small world.  I went to work at the message center this afternoon from 3 to 11.  I filed and signed for messages and delivered them to the Interaction Command or wherever they were to go and did general clerical work.  I’m really tired tonight.                          Goodnight. I get letters today. Sunday December 27, 1942, at camp Jeanne, New Caledonia I went to 8:00 mass this morning.  Afterward I got in a poker game and lost a little money.  This afternoon I went down to pick up my sunglasses I left to have fixed.  The Lt. Hadn’t had them fixed, so he sat down and fixed them.  I got talking to him and found out he was a camera fiend too.  He used 35 mm film also and was kind enough to sell me 2 rolls at the price in the states. I would have payed him double.  I went to work at 3:50 this afternoon till 11:00.  I wrote a letter to Ben tonight.  It’s another beautiful night.  You hate to sleep on such nights, it is so cool and nice but it is very conducive to good sleeping.                                                             Well, so ends another day.  Goodnight Monday December 28 1942 at camp Jeanne, New Caledonia We went swimming this morning again at the pool in the ocean.  I did some diving and took some pictures.  The weather is marvelous for sun bathing.  I’m developing a tan quite rapidly.  This afternoon I went to work again at 3:00 till 11:00.  I wrote some letters this evening.  I got 3 “V” mail letters today from Ruby, and Mary and Jackie.  That’s another day shot. I believe that was all for today outside the normal routine I am quite tired this night.  Goodnight. Wednesday December 30, 1942 at Camp Jeanne, New Caledonia Went swimming again this morning at the pool.  I’m getting awfully brown laying around in the sun.  This afternoon I went to work and was told by one of the fellows that Lt. Lufken wanted to see me, so I went up.  He said that if I would show proof that I passed the navy flight exam I could get in the army air corps without any trouble.  I brought him my papers, since there was no documentary proof that I had passed he said he would put me at the head of the next bunch of quotes and then sent me to Major Wells to make an appointment for a physical exam.  He set the timing for Friday morning.  I hope and pray that this is the start of something that will get me into the air corps.  If accepted you are sent back to the states for training.  That’s the news of the day.              Goodnight.  All’s well. Thursday December 31, 1942 at Camp Jeanne, New Caledonia Today is the last day of the old year.  It certainly has been an eventful one for me.  I got a card from Mary today and a very nice letter from Alair and of course a letter from my mom.  We also got paid.  I drew $34 and paid out $24.50 in debts I owed.  I played jailhouse poker last week and lost that much.  I’m not going to play that way again unless I set a limit on how much I play and that isn’t going to be over $5.00  I worked this afternoon from 3 to 11 again.  I wrote to Alair this evening.  I wrote her a nice long letter.  I have to go to work at 7am this morning till 3.  I’m supposed to take my physical tomorrow morning.  I’m going to sleep till next year.  Goodnight.  I hope the New Year has something to offer. Friday, January 1, 1943 at Camp Jeanne, New Caledonia I went down to take my physical this morning but the lighting equipment wasn’t working so I’ll have to wait till after Teusday.  I  personally think he was to lazy to give me an examination.  I guess I just don’t have a chance.  I went to work at the message center this morning and worked till 3 o’clock.  I don’t like the day shift because then I can’t get to swim till after 4:00.  The best swimming is in the morning.  I wrote a long letter to Dave today.  I kinda miss him.  He is quite a good guy although he has some faults.  I’m typing up my reg account of army life since I left Hamilton.  I played some blackjack and some poker today and lost at both.  I played a rubber of bridge this evening with three of the fellows in my outfit.  Goodnight alls well.                                                     Monday January 4  1943 I went on voluntary KP this morning in preference to being office boy down at the message center.  Down there I just run up and down the stairs with messages.  I got a letter from Bernie today.  After work this evening I went to another show.  It was Joan Crawford and Melvin Douglas in they all kissed the Bride”.  It was really a good show.  It’s the best I’ve seen since I left the states. Tuesday January 5, 1943 On KP again.  I went down to Major Whites office today for my flight physical.  He asked questions then took my pulse and blood pressure.  I was a little nervous and consequently he was kind enough to wait and told me to come back tomorrow.  I hope nothing is the matter.  If I couldn’t get in the air corps because of some physical defect I would be the most unhappy guy in the world because I’ve always prided myself on my physical condition.  This evening I played a little poker and won about $3.00.  I was dealt a royal club flush.  It’s the first time I ever had one in a 5 card draw game.  That’s all Thursday January 7, 1943 On KP again today.  I wrote a letter to Bernie and one to Alair today.  This evening I played some poker and started a letter to the gals in the Follies.  This morning I took some more of my physical.  I passed the blood pressure and pulse this morning and the eye exam.  I go back again in morning.  Before I turned in I and some other fellows had a political discussion. Friday January 8, 1943 On KP again today.  This afternoon I was feeling pretty low about everything in general and I went back to my tent.  There on my cot was a package from home.  It really jacked me up.  Mother sent me a little photograph folder and in it were the twins color pictures I had printed.  One of aunty and one of Mary and myself.  They are really beautiful.  Dad sent me a nice leather money belt with a dollar in it.  Aunty Mary gave me a swell pair of slippers with wool lining.  Jackie gave me 3 very nice linen hankies with my initial on them.  Scattered around in the box were mixed nuts, gum and mints and a box of fanny Farmer candy.  Everything seems right with the world now.  I played a little poker and won 5 bucks.                  That is all. Saturday January 9, 1943 On KP as usual.  I wrote home again today.  Today the barrage balloons went up.  5 of them broke loose and the anti aircraft shot them down.  They cost $10,000 a piece. Sunday Jan 10, 1943 On KP for the last time for another day.  I of course didn’t have a chance to do much else until this evening when I played poker and lost $5  Tomorrow I’m going to the beach if I get away from the doc’s room soon enough.  I go for the last of my physical, I hope, then what happens I don’t know. Monday January 11, 1943 This morning I went to Major Wells office for my physical.  Today I had the rest of my eye test and passed alright.  Tested my muscles and bones and really had a complete going over.  Afterward he dilated my eyes which will make me unable to see much or read much for a day or two.  This afternoon I went to the hospital for height, weight x-ray and blood tests.  Today I got a package from Bernie and one from Helen and Mary.  Bernie gave me a bath towel and 2 wash cloths, Yardley’s after shave lotion, a pocket flashlight, other toilet articles and candy.  My stationary also came with that box.  She also sent a beautiful medal especially for soldiers.  Mary and Helen’s packing included a very comfort toilet kit, a beautiful leather writing outfit a pictures case a checker board and candy.  Mother who enclosed in Bernie’s package some of my photos from home.   All in all it was quite an exciting day.  This evening I went to a show.  It was “ball of fire” with Barbara Stanwick and Gary Cooper.  I had seen it before.  I went to work at the message center at 11 tonight till 7 in the morning.  I slept most of the night till about 4:30. So ends this day. Tuesday January 12, 1943 I went swimming this morning.  It’s a beautiful day.  The sun is hot and the water cool.  This afternoon I and another fellow went swimming again at the beach this time.  It’s a long beach with fine white sandy beach.  The water is that pretty green and blue.  We picked up shells along the shore with which to make a bracelet of a necklace.  This evening I played a new game mother sent me called “contact”.  To work again at 11:00 Wednesday January 13, 1943 I went over to the pool swimming today.  I also did a little fishing.  Didn’t catch any but saw many.  The day is really hot and very little breeze.  This afternoon I laid around and answer some letters.  I got a card from Mary today, a letter from Mother and also one from Bernie and a card from Marshall high school with a little greeting and from Cully Swanson and from Mr. Carlson.  This evening I went over to the marine base to see a movie.  It was “wings of the Eagle” I had seen it before but I stayed to see it again.  To work at 11:00 again. Thursday January 16, 1943 I went swimming this morning at the beach.  This afternoon I went to the beach for a change.  I got a package from home today with candy and nuts and a loaf of nut bread, which was moldy.  I was looking forward to eating it but I had to throw it out.  This evening I went over to the marine camp to a show.  It was a rip roaring western.  I wrote to the jeweler at Hamilton about my watch.  I also wrote to Curly Swanson.             all’s well at 11;00 Saturday January 17, 1943 Went swimming again at the pool this morning.  I got a nice long letter from Tot White today and one from Mom.  The one from mother had been water soaked.  It was readable.  It might have been on a plane or boat that had been hit or probably just an accident in handling.  Several other fellows in camp got letters in that condition.  This evening I went over to the marine corps and saw Kings Row”.  It was a marvelous show.          To work at 11:00 Sunday January 18, 1943 Went to 8:00 mass and then went swimming at the pool.  After lunch I went swimming again.  This evening I played poker and won a little. Monday January 19, 1943 On KP today.  This is the third week of the 5 we have been hear that I have been on KP.  I don’t know what to think.  The ….. MISSING….. Thursday January 21, 1943 Today I was taken off KP to work on cementing the kitchen.  We got to swim a couple times.  This evening I went over to see George Hamline at the marine base.  We played cards and talked for a while, then came in and wrote a couple letters.  Today I got a very cute card from the Thomas Twins.  It had a photo of them with greeting underneath. Friday January 22, 1943 On cement work again today.  We finished the kitchen today.  This evening I went over to the navy corps to a show it was “Angels with dirty Faces”.  I saw it several years ago. Saturday, January 24, 1943 Carpenter work today.  I got 8 letters today.  1 from mom, one from each Mary, Helen, Pearl, Alair and Bernie and especially from Dave Garmiss.  This evening I went to a show again at the navy base.  It was Bing Crosby in “Paris Honeymoon”.  I had seen that quite a while ago. On KP again today.  Went swimming today. I got a letter from Tot today.  I answered Dave’s letter today.  This evening I went to the navy base to a show. It was again a show I had seen “Arise my Love”.  I went with my marine friends. Monday January 25, 1943 We moved this morning to our new camp.  It is a nice location with palm trees just a stone’s throw from the ocean.  I went swimming at the pool this morning and swimming in the bay this afternoon.  This evening I went to the nav base to a movie.  The camp is now just over the hill.  It was Walter Pigeon in Dark Command.  To my surprise I hadn’t seen it.  To work at 11:00.  Wrote 6 letters tonight. Tuesday January 26, 1943 I slept most of the morning because of being up all night.  It rained a lot today.  This evening I went over to the marine camp to talk with the fellows.  To work at 11:00 Wednesday January 27, 1943 Slept this morning after breakfast till lunch time.  After lunch I went swimming at the pool for a while.  It rained some more today.  After supper I and a couple of other fellows went fishing.  We didn’t catch anything, but I did find some oysters and opened them up to look for pearls.  Later this evening I played some poker and lost about 10 dollars.  To work at 11:00. I wrote 3 letters while at work.  Today I got 6 letters.  1 from Annie Hermoln, 1 from Bernie, 1 from Bill W.,  1 from Aunty Mary, 1 from Eastman Kodak and one from George Kingfall. Thursday January 28, 1943 I slept the greater part of this morning and then got up to eat.  It rained off and on during the day.  This evening I went to the marine camp but the fellows weren’t there so I went to club 13 for a  movie, but they wouldn’t let anyone but navy men in.  I met Can and Meddle coming from there and we went back to my tent.  We talked a while.  It was time to go to work.  I wrote a letter to Bill W. tonight. Friday January 29, 1943 I slept this morning for a while.  I also wrote a letter to Mrs. Phillips.  I get more disgusted with the army each day.  This afternoon I took some pictures and cleaned up a bit.  It rained some more today.  This evening I played a little poker and lost about $1.00.  To work again at 11:00. Saturday January 30, 1943 Nothing much doing today.  I went swimming at the beach.  I also get a package from the Beals.  It was a set of service men’s soap.  I also got a letter from Ruby.  Went over to the Marine base this evening to see my friends.  To work at 11:00. Sunday January 31,  1943 Went to 10:am mass with my marine friends.  The rest of the day I slept and read.  I got another box today from Beals with candy and nuts.  I also got some letters.  To work at 11:00 again. February 1 1943 I wrote some letters today and then packed up to leave for Tantuto Today I just layed around camp doing nothing but reading, writing and playing poker. Today I won about $35 playing poker.  Got some letters and Christmas card today. I played poker today and won about 5. This evening I left for Tantatu.  I went to a show this evening at the marine base.  I wrote some letters today.  This evening I left for Tantotu.  We arrived and I played the dice and lost about 5. Tuesday February 2, 1943 I worked today digging trenches for concrete.  This evening I got a package from Mary and Helen sent from Hershey.  There were all kinds of different Hershey’s with the little ones and the nickel size and a box of novelty chocolates.  These are such nice sisters I have. Wednesday February 3, 1943 To work again today and digging.  This evening I got a photograph of Mom and dad and one of Jackie sent from home.  It is very good of all of them.  I sent home a money order for $25.  I lost  little in poker this evening.  I rained like the limit this evening. Thursday February 4, 1943 To work again this morning at the same place.  It rained a little this morning.  I went swimming this morning at the river.  It was really nice and very refreshing.  This afternoon it rained like the devil.  I played a little poker and lost a little.  I wrote to John Arnold today.  Sergeant Ames was up at camp.  I turned in early this evening Friday February 5, 1943 To work again till 11:00.  After lunch I went swimming at the river.  I washed out a few things and layed around in the sun.  This evening I got a letter from mom.  It had a copy of Cedric Adams column with a piece about Mary’s engagement to Frack.  There certainly isn’t much to do around here evenings except play poker and that takes money.  We made some coffee this evening.  The food out here isn’t any too good to say the least. Saturday February 6, 1943 To work again today on the construction detail.  We are making an airplane motor testing station.  It’s pretty hard work.  I wrote a letter home today. Sunday February 7, 1943 Went to 9:00 mass.  After mass I went swimming at the river.  It was certainly very refreshing.  I came back to my tent and laid around and read and just loafed the day.  I played poker this evening with 5 bucks I borrowed.  I ran it up to 30 and then lost it all.  Some of the fellows are here.  Rain in the morning for the Hebrides.                      That is all. Monday February 8, 1943 To work again at 7:30 building a testing block for airplane engines.  I got a booklet on Kodachrome’s from the Eastman Kodak co today.  I wrote a letter to Alair today. Tuesday February 9, 1943 I wasn’t feeling so good today so I slept most of the day and read a little.  This afternoon I got ten letters and 2 packages.  1 package from home with cookie and nuts and candy, and 2 rolls of film 1 plain x  and 1 Kodachrome.  I got a letter from the navy at Wold Chamberlain which proves positively that I passed the navy air corps cadet exams.  I hope it does the trick.  I got letters from 1 from mom 1 from dad, ` from Jackie, 1 from Alair, 1 from Bob Swanson, 1 from the navy, and one from Ben.  The package from Alair I got poker chips, labels and cards a box of very nice chocolates, a can of peanuts, 1 field and Stream magazine, a box of cheese and crackers and a New York Sunday News.  This evening I went to a movie and saw Henry Fonda and Don Ameche in “Magnificent Dopes.” Wednesday February 10, 1943 To work this morning at the old airplane engine testing block project.  This afternoon after work I was sitting and writing a letter to Bob Swanson when I was called to the phone quite suddenly.  On the other end I heard Lt. Binder of the 1st Island Air Command.  He told me there was a meeting of the aviation cadet selection board this evening at 7:30.  At the time of the call it was about 5:30.  I immediately went to Capt. Wait to get permission and after talking to him for about a half hour I finally convinced him to call Lt. Binder.  He was a bit sorry about me going down because of the 12th air depot 4 moanth ruling.  Lt. Binder convinced him that I should go and went then to Colonel Prosser the commander of the 13th air depot, and obtained permission for me to go on the basis that I had made application in the states.  Capt. Wait got permission and gave me a jeep and a driver to go to town (Numea) about 40 miles away.  We left about 7:15 and arrived about 8:30.  I went before the board at about 9:30 and was asked several questions about things in general.  I believe I made an impression with them, a good impression because I was OK’d. I found out later I put on my best military courtesy and thru more “sirs” at them then they had ever heard.  After the meeting I went up to the 1st Island Air Command to spend the night. Tomorrow morning I take the mental.  If I pass that I’m in.  Here’s hoping Thursday February 11, 1943 This morning I took the mental exam.  It wasn’t bad compared to what I thought it would be.  I believe I passed it alright.  I was told shortly afterward that I had passed (officially}. I ate lunch at the HQ and then left in my jeep for Tantata.  I answered some letters this afternoon and toward supper time I went swimming.  After supper I called Lt. Binder because I was on edge about that exam.  He told me officially that I had passed.  I’m probably the happiest monkey in the world and just 24 hours ago or so I felt I was the unluckiest guy in the world.  It won’t be to long now before I will be leaving for the states.  I answered some more letters this evening. Friday, February 12, 1943 I wrote letters this morning.  Sergeant Ames called me this morning and told me I had passed the mental exam at the top of the list.  I haven’t got my official notice as yet from the board, but I should hear by Sunday.  I took some pictures today.  I’m so afraid something will slip up.  I’ll keeping my fingers crossed till I get on that boat.  I was on guard tonight from 10:30 till 2:00 Saturday February 13, 1943 I wrote letters this morning.  Sergeant Ames called me and told me my orders had been “cut”.  It scared me at first.  I thought something had happened that I won’t be able to go, but “cut” means that we are ready to go.  He said we might even leave tomorrow at 2:00.  This afternoon I wrote some more.  This evening I played poker and won a little while I was playing the orderly came in and said a call came and that I was to leave tomorrow morning at 10;00 for Numea, and then I guess we leave at 2:00 tomorrow for the states.  This looks like it. Sunday February 14, 1943 I got up bright and early this morning to start packing.  About 11;00 I started to town with Captain Wait and John McMahon driving.  We arrived about 12;30.  I found out that my orders had been rescinded and that I was not to leave until tomorrow morning at 10:00.  That gave me time for a few “goodbyes”.  I went over to the marine camp to say goodbye to Jim Weddle, Carl, and George Hamline.  This afternoon I got a Valentine gift from Alair.  It arrived right on the day.  It was a box of cookies done up very nice in a little tin box with a little Valentines card enclosed.  She is such a darn thoughtful person.  This evening I went to a movie with “linc” at the marine camp. I went to the HQ building afterward for a while to see Sergeant Ames and then back to camp to bed. Monday February 15 1943 I left for the HQ at 8:00 this morning.  From there I went up to USAFISPA to say goodbye to Ed King.  He introduced me to warrant officer Ruff and to a major Keith. They were both very nice.  W.O. Ruff gave me the name of fellow to call if I get back to Mpls.  We left the HQ for the boat at 9:00.  We boarder the boat (a small boat that took us to our ship).  After about a 10 min ride on this small boat we tied up alongside our ship.  We wait about a bit after the hospital patients and officers.  Our quarters were in the hold, but there was so few of us that we have plenty of room.  I took bunk above me which gives me plenty of room.  We hoisted anchor at 3;35. At 4:45 we were underway.  On our way out we passed ship “Argon” (used for serving very necessary products for the fires).  We also passed the aircraft carrier “Saratoga” and several destroyers.  We also passed a point where I could see the pool I swam at the camp where my marine friends use.  It was a little pool, and we will meet attain.  We lost sight of New Caledonia at about 6;45.  It’s a beautiful night. Tuesday February 16, 1943 There wasn’t much out of the ordinary today.  The weather is cool and rainy and quite a strong wind.  I volunteered for the store room detail so as to help pass the time away.  I don’t feel sick as yet, although I feel a little uncomfortable at times. I miss the fellows at camp and George H. and Jens W.  I agree I had some good times back there and some pleasant memories.  There is plenty of room on the boat.  From what I’ve found out there are just 366 passengers on board compared to about 2,500 on the ‘Klip” coming over.  I’m starting to get awfully anxious already.  I certainly hope we get some sort of a leave when we get to the states.  I looked at the mileage meter at about 3:30 today and it read 545 miles out of New Caledonia.  This evening I played some poker and lost about 13 dollars.  That is about all. Wednesday February 17, 1943 This morning as eventless.  All there is to see is “water, water everywhere” At 2:25 I looked at the mileage meter and it read 942 miles from Caledonia.  At 3:20 the Fiji Islands were sighted.  They appear hilly and some very green areas.  There are many small islands around.  About 5:00 we anchored off shore about 2 miles.  The day has been rainy and quite cool.  This evening I and some of my buddies sat on deck and talked for a while.  We may be here several days. Thursday, February 19, 1943 At 5:30 this morning we hoisted anchor and pulled in near the dock and anchored there to wait till another ship unloaded.  It’s a sweltering day.  The Fijis from here are really beautiful.  You can see the rugged landscape with many palm trees and green grass against the purple mountains topped by beautiful billowy cumulus clouds.  About 6:00 we again hoisted anchor and pulled into the dock.  As we came in there were groups of native stewards singing native songs.  The men threw them coins and cigarettes and it was funny to watch them scramble for them.  Later we got a pass and went ashore. This town named Nandi is not very big.  There seem to be a lot of stores more than anything.  The natives are large, black bushy haired fellows but are very friendly.  They greet you with a “Bula” (hello!).  While we were ashore it rained a bit.  On the docks there were tons and tons of bombs.  Our ship unloaded flower all night.  We are going to take on some sugar tomorrow.  Friday February 19, 1943 The natives unloaded flower all night and this morning they started to load sugar.  After lunch I and 4 other cadet friends went ashore again.  I bought a few souvenir’s to take home.  They cost a small fortune and of course aren’t worth it.  I watched the natives play soccer.  They are really excellent players, and very nimble.  Before we got back on the boat we bought a coconut and a whole stock of green bananas for $0.70.  While we were ashore we visited a catholic mission school and the population is made up of Indians, Chinese, and the native Fijians.  The Indians dislike the Americans and are more friendly to the Japs.  The Natives are very friendly to the Americans.  I’ve talked with several of them and they are really quite good fellows.  This evening I watched the natives unload flour from the aft hold.  They are the most energetic workers I’ve seen. Saturday February 20, 1943 The day was spent doing not very much of nothing.  The ship is still in dock unloading flour and taking on sugar. I talked with some of the native chiefs (they were made 2nd Lt in the Fijian army at the start of the war) and found out a bit about the island.  A couple of my buddies told some of the natives that I had fought Joe Louis.  The word soon got around and soon the natives were crowding around and jabbering and touching me.  I guess Louis must be their idol.  At 4:00 this afternoon a priest came aboard and said mass for the catholic fellows.  He was a very nice fellow.  I also started a letter to Sergeant Ames.  This evening was spent in the usual manner a bull session with my buddies.   They are still unloading flour from the aft hold.  It should be unloaded by tomorrow morning.  We pull out tomorrow, I think. Sunday February 21, 1943 This morning at a 10:30 we cast off from the dock and about at 10:40 we started steaming out of the bay.  The natives sang as we left and we heard “Bula” and “Hello Joe” for the last time from them.  We took on 16 more air cadets at the Fijis and about 100 sailors.  We didn’t lose sight of the Fiji Island until late in the evening.  There are approximately 250 islands in the group.  I believe we head straight for Frisco from here, and at least I hope so.  This evening I and one of my buddies named Bill Boyd slept on deck.  Bill is a tall lean southerner from Louisiana and he talks with a different drawl.  He goes by the nickname of “old pardner” simply because of he addresses everyone as “old Pardner”.  It’s a beautiful night. Monday February 22, 1943 Another Mon.—we crossed the International Date Line this morning so it is again Mon, the 22.  This morning about 11:00 British Samoa was sighted.  At about 3:15 we pulled into to anchorage just off the town of (America).  It is really the most beautiful of any of the places we have been.  There are large American Hotels and stores and shops.  The surf is really the beauty.  The breakers run up to 15 feet high onto the sandy beach.  As we came in two natives came out to meet us in their outrigger canoes.  One was selling bananas, the other necklace of shell and replicas of the outrigger canoes.  I bought a bunch of bananas for $1.  We were only there for a few hours.  I wish it were longer, in a way.  That was the last stop, I guess.  We left off 300 bags of mail. Monday February 22 1943 There wasn’t much doing today.  I just laid around and read a little.  This afternoon the …islands were sighted.  We went by them without stopping. We should hit the Samoans tomorrow.  I guess we are going to stop there.  Tonight we cross the International Date Line, so tomorrow will be Mon the 22, again.  This evening we had a terrific rainstorm, but we rode it out without much trouble. Tuesday February 23, 1943 Quite an uneventful day. I guess we are going to make one more stop because of a sick man aboard.  It’s an appendix case.  I understand it will be the Xmas Island.  I read a little today. I couldn’t’ sleep this evening at all, so I stayed up a good part of the night.  I played a little blackjack and lost a dollar.  This hasn’t been much of a day as for anything unusual, but it a day nearer home. Wednesday February 24, 1943 Another “routine” day.  No land, nothing out of the ordinary, but plenty of water.  From what I hear, we aren’t going to stop at the Christmas Islands, because the fellow that was sick is much better today.  We are making good time.  We are doing about 27 knots an hour. Thursday, February 25, 1943 I worked in the store room this morning.  We crossed the equator today.  We are running 1 day ahead of schedule and still running about 17 knots an hour.  At this rate barring any unforeseen conditions that would slow us up we should be in Frisco next Thursday for sure and maybe even Wed.  I’m worried about this air cadet business.  It sounds almost to good to be true.  I’m afraid I’ll make a flop of that too.  I hope not.  I’ll put all my mind to it and maybe I can do it, one time. Friday February 26, 1943 More water today and nothing else.  We are still hitting a pretty fair clip for this tub.  It shouldn’t be long now before I see that glorious Golden Gate of Frisco and the US.  This afternoon I typed a letter to Mary and Helen and one to Ruby and one to Bob S.  That is about all which isn’t very much. Saturday February 27, 1943 Just another day –water, sleep and reading, but 1 day closer. Sunday February 28, 1943 The sea was unusually calm today or maybe I should say smooth, but there were heavy ground swells (the water rises and falls without breaking the surface).  I sat in the bow for a while watching the flying fish jump and fly as the ship approached.  Monday March 1 1943 The day passed without any outstanding incident except that the weather is getting noticeably cooler and the sea is really getting rough! This evening we started rocking like a cradle and dishes, fell, and everything else fell including some of the men, but again its 1 day closer. Tuesday March 2nd 1943 I read a lot today.  Stories in Colliers, Post, and Ladies Home Journal.  I never realized that those magazines had stories as good as they have.  In a magazine called “mademoiselle” I found a picture of a table set with sterling “rambler rose” pattern by Tamle, which I cut out. Mary’s silver is that same pattern.  I also cut out a picture of the Beverly Hills Hotel Pool which I swam at when I was in Hollywood.  The sea is very rough today.  We should dock Friday, 2 days hence. March 4rd 1943 Just another day.  The water is still very rough.  About noon something went wrong with one of our diesels and we were running on 1 motor till about 4:00 at half speed.  This evening at 7:15 the ships master, Captain Thor Owens gave a talk on Norway.  He is a very intelligent man and gave a nice oration on his homeland, although it was a bit hard to understand him at times because of his broken English. Thursday March 4th 1943 Nothing for today, just anxious writing.  As yet there hasn’t been any land sighted, but there will be tomorrow.  I didn’t sleep tonight at all, and played checkers and packed my things. Tomorrow I hope I will be writing from Frisco on solid earth. Friday March 5th 1943 At 7:30 this morning land was sighted.  In the bay I saw 3 seals and a huge whale, or at least she was huge to me because I’ve never seen on before.  We docked at about 11:00 and were taken to Fort McDowell on Angel Island.  We will be here a few days to get paid, outfitted and transportation arranged.  The food is really good.  Had fresh milk and butter.  What a treat the Ice Cream!  I sent a telegram home.  Tonight I slept on a mattress and clean white sheets for the first time in about 6 months. Saturday March 4th 1943 This morning we had a talk from the Captain and then we were outfitted.  I was given my woolen OD’s. I don’t care much for them but they will have to do until I can get my cadet uniforms. We also were told that the A.C.’s don’t get any leave from here to Nashville.  I was hoping for one.  We got a pass to go to Frisco at 4:30 today until 9:15 tomorrow night.  George Pennington, Hand Daklen, Bill Fill, Bill Boyd and myself went together.  We stopped first at Grisom steak house and had a chicken dinner.  Mary knows Mr. Grisom (the owner) well. After that we found a hotel after searching for hours, and then proceeded to a barber shop where we all had haircuts, shampoo, and everything else.  Then we started the rounds.  The fellows were a bit tipsy before the night was over.  I don’t drink, but I had a good time at a dance we went to.  I finally got to bed about 4:00 Sunday March 6th 1943 I got up about 10:00 this morning and went over to 49-4th street to see if I would find Otto Becker and to see if I could get to Hamilton Field to see about my Watch.  I however remembered that the PX at the field is closed Sundays. So I talk with some of the old 410th men I had lunch with them.  They, of course know most of the fellows in the outfit and were much interested in where and why for a few of the fellows.  After that I called up Maxsoms home and Tuchy answered the phone and then came down and picked me up and we went out to the Maxsoms home.  Where had dinner and talked.  I called home from there and it was so good to hear from Mom and Dad.  Russ Tuchy drove me back to the hotel, where there is a note from the fellows for me to meet them at a nearby tavern.  I went there and there they were all together drunk.  I got them something to eat and at 8:00 for a cab and took them to the dock.  I didn’t think I would get them there, but I did.  Wow! What a night!

June, 28, 1943      A very graphic picture of my life here.       I'll never forget it.                                  Arnie

August 30, 1943 Dear Bernie I'm still a little late in thanking you for the candy, but I thoughtI had written you, but I see I haven't.  It was nice to hear everyone when I called home on my birthday.  I wish Charlie would have said more.  I'll bet Charlie and MaryKay are really cute now. How is Vern?  Has he heard anymore about whether or not he will be drafted? Mother sent me about the clipping about Jack Ryan missing.  As you know I knew him quite well, also the marine pilot that was killed in N.C. My flying is coming along fine.  I now have 30 hrs. and 22 minutes.  That's more than anyone else on the field.  I'm doing acrobatics now at 40 hours.  I have my next check.  That is the tough one.  I want this flying more than anything.  I hope Mom and Dad don't worry too much.  It.s really quite safe.  I fly the same kind of lane you see flying over your house everyday.  You know those yellow ones.  Ours are silver .  I will be here about 4 more weeks, if everything goes right.  Today the upper class had their graduation exercises and parade.  We will have an exibition of flying by the President of Hawthorne School of aeronautics.  He flies a clipped wing cub and realy does things with it. Mom is really exicited about going to the coast.  I wish Dad could go along, but he will go to Chicago when they play there so it wont be bad.  Mom tells me Dad hurt his finger and it soulds quite painful.  That's about all from the "Front".  How is the home front standing up?  Incidently you ought to see me do a loop and a chandelle.  I'm right on the beam. Well, old gal, I want to write mom tonight and also Helen so I will call it a day for now. Squeeze the babies 8 or a hundred times for me and write when you can. Be careful and take it easy.  Say hello to vern for me.             Love and Kisses               Arnie                  Put that down Charlie!

May 4, 1944  Lt Arnold C. Elchlepp Dear Mom and Dad      It rained alnight and really hit some bad weather.  It is cold and raining and windy and has been this way for 4 weeks, from what I can find out.      I'll be here about 2 weeks and then to operational training scool which will take 10 to 12 weeks.  So I'll be in this country till at least the end of July.  That candy tasted great coming down here on the train.  The usual trouble was that there isn't enough of it.       It was nice to get home for a couple of days.  It went awfully fast.  Dad, I hope you are feeling better now.  I hope the weather isn't as miserable there as it is here.  There isn't a lot to say about the place.  I won't be doing much here except getting my draws and attending a few lectures aside from that I'll just be waiting around.      I guess that is about all I have to offer for now so I'll close.  Write soon and take care of yourselves Love and Kisses        Arnie

May 16, 1944  Lt A C Elchlepp  0-821978 Officers Club     Combat Crew Detachment                            Crew # 5585 Army Air Field Casper, Wyoming Dear Mom and Dad; This is the first time I was off today do I was unable to write before.  It was nice to hear you again last nite.  I'm sorry I left before Mr Morton got there.  I could have used those cookies and candy on the train.     The field as I told you last nite, in better than a mile aove sea level.  The quarters are nice the food good and facilities generally good.  We have a beautiful officers club, at which a dance is being given in honor tonite.  I've met quite a few fellows with whom I went part way thru training but then got split up some where along the line.  One of them was leaving for overseas today.      I've met most of my crew, but of course I don't know a lot about them except for my co pilot and bombardier both of whom are from Texas.  My co pilots name is Thomas O'Neal Moore guess what nationality he is?  I'll tell you more about the crew as I get to know them better.  I not only have myself to worry about now but 8 other guys besides.  I'm responsible for their being at classes on time, mustering formations, and what not.     I hope you went to see a doctor as I told you, Dad.  Be sure and do that because there is no use feeling lousy when you can be fixed up in no time.  How are the babies and Bernie and Vern?  I suppose they are pretty well settled by now.  I wrote to Mary last nite too.  I haven't heard from her for quite some time.      There isn't much else to day for now, but I will write again when I get a lettle better acquainted.  Take care of yourselves and write soon.          Love and Kisses             Arnie

May 16, 1944 Officers Club     Army Air Field Casper, Wyoming Army Air Base Lt A C Elchlepp  0-821978 Army Air Field    Crew # 5585 Casper, Wyoming Combat Crew Detachment Dear Mom and Dad;  May 24, 1844   As yet I haven't heard from you.  I got the letter from Eastmens and my "M" paper but there was no letter from you.  I hope you are alright and everything.  Maybe there will be a letter in the morning mail. I'm pretty busy getting my crew into shape now.  We seem to be coming along in pretty fair shape.  I have a good co pilot and radair operator and flight engineer.  I don't know about my gunner as yet since we haven't flown together yet because we were scheduled today but the weather wasn't too good.  He expects to leave about June 27 of so for overseas.     I suppose I told you that we have an excellent officers club.  We have a dance every week which is a pretty nice affair.      Some days I have ground school for 8 hrs besides flying.  When I also have some time it is nomlly spent  in getting my enlisted men straightened out, or something or other.  I'll be sending my cameras home soon. and I wish you could take it to Eastman's and have them give it a complete overhaul job.  I think is needs it and I would like it before I go over seas.  Mary is really having a time of it isn't she? She seems to be pretty well settled by now.  She sent me some picures of you and Bernie, Pearl and Gestende and the babies.  They are awfully nice. I hope you two are taking care of yourselves.  What did the doctor say when you saw him Dad?  Or did you ----How is the telephone cmpany coming along, Mom and I have to get a little sleep now.  Maybe I'll wait until the morning mail before I send this.  At any rate be careful and write soon Love and kisses       Arnie

Dear Mom and Dad May 28 1944 It's sunday afternoon and I dond't have much of anything to do for a change.  The day I wrote you last I received 3 letters from you in the afternoon.  The mail doesn't seem to get here to fast.  One had been sent to Lincoln. That little comb in a good deal.  I need one for my jacket.  Thank the fuller brush man for me. I'm sorry I missed Mr Morton.  I'd like to have seen him and also would like to have gotten those cookies and candy.  As yet I haven't reeived the film.  I'm quite anscious to see it.  I'm so worried about you both being sick.  That Pleusory doesn't sound good.  I hope you are both better and resting. So Charlie is a roller skater.  He probably does better than I could .  How did Alex like it?  Say hellow to him for me.  I must get home before going over again.  I would like to spend a day down where works.      Mary really got everything at once didn't she.  Frack seems to be a great help.  As usual, mom, I'll have to ask you to shop for me.  I'm stuck in not to being a town, again and the shopping is a little difficult since.  I don't get into often and that is normally at nite.  I want you to get Helen a gift.  You know what whe wants.  I'll send her a card.  Get her something nice.      How is Aunty Mary?  She hasn't answered my letter yet.  Get her on the ball.  How is the weather down there. The days are warm here and the nites cool.    My crew is shaping up nicely.  The Pilot instructor I rode with the other nite said I had a good crew and a well disiplined drew.  I keep some terrific hours at times.  Some nites we fly until 0:200.  Then other mornings we get up at time to fly until noon then ground school till six then lunch , training, bomb training etc. until 11:00 at nite.  I still like flying more than ever. These planes are about twice as heavy as the ones at Maxwell.  They weigh abou 55 to 60,000 lbs or 30 tons.  They weigh more because they have all four gun turrets, 3,000 rounds of ammunition and 30-100 lb bombs besides 2300 gallons of gasoline which all in all makes quite a load.  I guess tha's about all for now.  Plese take care of yourselves and be careful.   Love and Kisses'        Arnie I see the mailman will be around for awile yet.  Say hellow to him for me.  I'm sorry I missed him.

June 04, 1944 Dear Mom and Dad I'm sorry I haven't written for the last few days, but their was a change in schedule and we are putting in some long hours.  For instance, today is Sunday and we have been going since 4;45  this morning and just got threw with it this afternoon.  It was all ground school.  We fly tomorrow morning at  2:00 and will be going until 10:00 tomorrow nite.      The cookies came yesterday and were received with open mouths.  They were broken, but that can't be helped when they are wrapped seperately and that is too much work.  Being broken certainly doesn't deter from the taste.  My slides have arrived.  I was up yesterday with my crew.  We flew High Altitude formation and gunnery for 5 hours (20,000ft).  Everything went fine.  I have one gunner in the hospital.  He has a badly abscessed tooth.  That was to bad about Arthur.  He was such a nice fellow too.  I sent them a card.  The mail is coming a little better now.  Although I still get letters that come before ones you wrote the day before.      I heard from Mary and she might be able to visit me for a couple days.  I'll tell you more about that later.  With this stiff schedule it will be hard.  Those articles by Earnie Pyle are swell.  You asked about Dave.  He is a copilot on a B-17 I told you he expects to leave abound the last of this month.      I'm glad to hear that you are both feeling better.  Be sure and take care of yourselves.  I suppose by the time you receive this you will have helped Helen celebrate another birthday.  She is getting to be a big girl now, isn't she.  I've sent her some cards and you let me know the cost of the gift so I can mail you a check      What do you hear from Mrs Morton?  I haven't heard from him yet.  There isn't much else to say for now.  I want to go eat dinner and get to bed.  So take care of yourselves and write soon. love and kisses      Arnie.

June 19, 1944 Dear Mom and Dad      It was certainly was nice to talk to you both last nite had a good connection after the operator fiinally got the right number.  I don't have to fly until this afternoon at 4:30 so I have a few hours rest .  I am laying out in the sun now while absorbing a little of it.  It's about the most beautiful day I've seen since leaving home.  The weather comes in awfully fast here then in an hour it would be raining although I hardly think so today.  I was so sorry to hear about Dan of cvourse there is a very good chance ht is alright I hope so.  I don't believe he got to see his little daughter before leaving.    As for my birthday it was so nive talking you that you should forget about it because I know you wuldn't listen.  I'll five you a few suggestions.  I can use some nice lounging pajamas and a lounging robe.  Incidentally Dad, why don't you use one of my terry cloth robes.  I would have you send me one but they are too bulky to carry around. I have's an identification braceleet either.  I haven't been able to find one like the one I lost.  I'd like the one I had I sould like a tighter fitting one if you would find one.  That was such a swell one that I had.  I guess that's about all except I can always use some Old Spice shaving soap and lotion.  Is that enouth to go by?  I think it is too much myself.      I'm going swimming tomorrow.  There is a nice pool in town and tomorrow is my day off so I believe I'll take a little dip.     About the $25.  It's not that I did not want you to know.  It's just that I don't want you sending me money when you can't afford it.  As yet I have not used it and just wanted it in case.  I don't spend much, buty I have a lot lended out.  You let me know how mch those phone calls came to..and can pay you at the end of this month.      Helen is really coming along isn't she?  She will own the company beore long.  I was rather dissappointed to hear about Sid.  I didn't know that religion bothered him that much, but if he feels that way things would never work out      I guess that's about all for now.  I'll have to go shower and shave now, so I'll close for now.  Write soon and take care of yourselves. Love and Kisses       Arnie

June 04, 1944 Dear Mom and Dad I'm sorry I haven't written for the last few days, but their was a change in schedule and we are putting in some long hours.  For instance, today is Sunday and we have been going since 4:45  this morning and just got threw at it this afternoon.  It was all ground school.  We fly tomorrow morning at  2:00 and will be going until 10:00 tomorrow nite.      The cookies came yesterday and were received with open mouths.  They were broken, but that can't be helped when they are wrapped seperately and that is too much work.  Being broken certainly doesn't deter from the taste.  My slides have arrived.  I was up yesterday with my crew.  We flew High Altitude formation and gunnery for 5 hours (20,000 ft).  Everything went fine.  I have one gunner in the hospital.  He has a badly abscessed tooth.  That was to bad about Arthur.  He was such a nice fellow too.  I sent them a card.  The mail is coming a little better now.  Although I still get letters that come before ones you wrote the day before.      I heard from Mary and she might be able to visit me for a couple days.  I'll tell you more about that later.  With this stiff schedule it will be hard.  Those articles by Earnie Pyle are swell.  You asked about Dave.  He is a copilot on a B-17 I told you he expects to leave abound the last of this month.      I'm glad to hear that you are both feeling better.  Be sure and take care of yourselves.  I suppose by the sime you receive this you will have helped Helen celabrate another birthday.  She is getting to be a big girl now, isn't she.  I've sent her some cards and you let me know the cost of the gift so I can mail you a check      What do you hear from Mrs Morton?  I haven't heard from him yet.  There isn't much else to say for now.  I want to go eat dinner and get to bed.  So take care of yourselves and write soon. love and kisses      Arnie.

June 11, 1944

Dear Father Happy birthday

Happy Fathers Day

Dear Mom and Dad June 11, 1944 Officers Club Army Air Force Casper Wyoming      It's about time I got around to writing.  I am certainly gotten behind in my writing since I've been here.    Well, I have my bombadier and navigator in from LA.  He seems to know his navigation and has an interest in it.  His name is Lawson Snyder.  My first bombadier's name was Goldberg and I didn't care for that positively, and while contemplating a change I ran across this fellow from Mpls and the next day he was changed to my crew.  Incidentally this fellow from Mpls goes by the name of John Breckner.  He is Keith's twin brother.  Small world isn't it.  He knows his bombing sight and and also is eger, so the crew as a whole looks pretty good.  We have completed our 1st plane mission and are now doing 2nd and third plane missions.  I also met a navigator from Mpls that I went to High School with and swam against me in High School.      That Bernie is quite a character isn't she.  She ought to make radio her business.  Maybe she could team up with Hope or Durante or someone.      How did you like Charlie's?  It's a nice place and normally has very good food  Helen's gift sounds good enough.  I'm glad she had a nice birthday    I was so sorry to hear about Mrs Phillips.  Ben must feel awfully lonely.  I'm going to write them a letter.  Did you send flowers?  She was such a good person too.  Did you pen a letter to him at all?      It will be swell if Mary gets to see me before I leave.  I hardly think I'll be able to come home before leaving.  As far as I know we are still scheduled to leave on the 29th of July.  The flying is coming along swell.  We start bombing tomorrow on our own next flight.  We were supposed to start two days ago, but the weather prevented us from making any bombing runs.  I have one gunner still in the hospital.  He had a pretty badly absessed tooth and his face became swollen.  He is my upper turret gunner.  The rest of the crew as I said are shaping up fine.  I'll send you a picture of all of us as soon as we have one taken.        That's about all for now so I'll close for awhile.  Be careful and take it easy.  I''m glad to hear you both are feeling better. Love and Kisses,        Arnie Ask Auntie when she is going to answer my letter?

June 19, 1944 Dear Mom and Dad      It was certainly was nice to talk to you both last nite had a good connection after the operator fiinally got the right number.  I don't have to fly until this afternoon at 4:30 so I have a few hours rest .  I am laying out in the sun now while absorbing a little of it.  It's about the most beautiful day I've seen since leaving home.  The weather comes in awfully fast here then in an hour it would be raining although I hardly think so today.  I was so sorry to hear about Dan of course there is a very good chance he is alright I hope so.  I don't believe he got to see his little daughter before leaving.    As for my birthday it was so nice talking you that you should forget about it because I know you wouldn't listen.  I'll give you a few suggestions.  I can use some nice lounging pajamas and a lounging robe.  Incidentally Dad, why don't you use one of my terry cloth robes.  I would have you send me one but they are too bulky to carry around. I haven't an identification bracelet either.  I haven't been able to find one like the one I lost.  I'd like the one I had I sould like a tighter fitting one if you would find one.  That was such a swell one that I had.  I guess that's about all except I can always use some Old Spice shaving soap and lotion.  Is that enouth to go by?  I think it is too much myself.      I'm going swimming tomorrow.  There is a nice pool in town and tomorrow is my day off so I believe I'll take a little dip.     About the $25.  It's not that I did not want you to know.  It's just that I don't want you sending me money when you can't afford it.  As yet I have not used it and just wanted it in case.  I don't spend much, but I have a lot lended out.  You let me know how mch those phone calls came to..and can pay you at the end of this month.      Helen is really coming along isn't she?  She will own the company before long.  I was rather dissappointed to hear about Sid.  I didn't know that religion bothered him that much, but if he feels that way things would never work out      I guess that's about all for now.  I'll have to go shower and shave now, so I'll close for now.  Write soon and take care of yourselves. Love and Kisses       Arnie

Officers Club     Army Air Field Casper, Wyoming Army Air Base Lt A C Elchlepp  0-821978 Army Air Field    Crew # 5585 Casper, Wyoming Combat Crew Detachment      Dear Mom and Dad      July 4, 1944            Happy 4th of July!  I thought I'd drop you a line before retiring.  We fly at 2:30 in the morning, which means that I'll have to get up at 1:30.  We still working as hard as ever.  Tomorrow we start flying 7 1/2 hr missions.  We have been flying 5 hr. missions.  That is 7 1/2 hrs. without coming in.  A good part of that will be at altitude (20,000 ft).  That is really tiring to fly at those altitudes.  The oxygen masks are uncomfortable, it's cold.  I really don't mind it, but it is work.      I heard from Mary today.  She is going to try and get here on the 7th but she rather doubt that she can make it before the 10th because of transportation.  I'm anxious to see her.  Our crew is coming along fine.  My crew was the first crew to finish the minimum air force requirements.  We will, or should be, well trained when we leave here on the 29th.  It will certainly be different from the last time I went over.      Those strawberries really sound good.  How I'd love some good old strawberry shortcake.  I think that is what I need.  The babies are really growing up.  Did Bernie get the triangle for Charlie?  I'd like to see him and MaryKay again before I leave because they will be grown up when I get back.  I guess we can't have everything.  Mpls. should be nice this time of the year.  When is the Acquatennial Meet this year?  How are Bernie and Vern?  Say, do you ever hear from Mr. Simpson?  John is my navigator, Lawson is playing the trumpet.  At the moment they are singing and playing "Because". John has a nice voice.  I guess there isn't much else to tell about for now.  I just wanted to let you know I'm O.K. and things are going fine.  Be careful and write soon.  I'll write again soon and maybe I'll have a little more to talk about!  I hope everything is going fine at home.    Love and Kisses       Arnie         Say hellow to the sewing circle girls.

Officers Club     Army Air Field Casper, Wyoming Army Air Base Lt A C Elchlepp  0-821978 Army Air Field    Crew # 5585 Casper, Wyoming Combat Crew Detachment      Dear Mom and Dad           July 10, 1944 It's about time I was wriing, I guess  Tomorrow morning I have to get up at 1;30 TO FLY.  I shudder to think of it.  I'll retire after I write this letter.  I got a letter from Dave the other day.  He was leaving then for overseas.  He is going to England so we may run into each other yet.       Mom you are really cooking aren't you  That locker really aught to look food by fall.  I went fishing the other day.  I didn't catch anything, but it certainly was beautiful.  We went up into a mountain stream.  It was cool, crystal clear water.  You could see the trout swimming around, but they wouldn't bite.  I'm going again before I leave, maybe when Mary gets here.  She is having a bad time getting reservations.  You two are pretty lucky on those baseball tickets.  Mary says she can hardly wait to get home and test at those canned goods and Helen's lunches.  If I were her I would sell those tires while she can get such a good price.     It was nice that Clayton could stop in on his way home.  I just heard from Jackie a short while ago and she told me about his getting his 1st.  He has a nice job now.  It was nice of Dick Moore to drop in.  Did he give you his address.  I have to get it.  Maybe I'll get a letter from him soon.  Do you hear from Dave?  He should be home on leave now.    The cookies came and they were swell.  There wasn't a broken and they came at a time when I was unusually hungry for some home baking.  We, needless to say finally downed them      You all had a nice 4th of July I see.  I'd like  to be home for the Acquatennial, but I don't think I'll be able too make it, but the sooner I go the sooner I'll be home.      The other evening I had an emergency landing.  An oil line broke in my no. 3 engine and I had to cut it off.  So I came in on 3 engines.  The plane holds altitude very well on 3 engines.  I made a beautiful landing.  You could harly feel the plane touch the ground.  My drew has quite a bit of confidence in me now I think.  There was one ship here awhile ago that an engine went bad and the pilot got exicted and cut the wrong engine.  He crash landed and ruined the airplane and killed one gunner and seriously injured the others.  Well, folks I'll turn in now.  Write soon and be careful.  Tell Clyde I'll write soon.     Love and Kisses,        Arnie.

Dear Arnie US Naval auxilliary Air Sation Kingsville Texas      Thursday July 20, 1944       Dear Arnie            Well, this will be the last letter you will receive from a/c W.T. Hovde.  I am finally stepping up to your bracket next Wed when the Cap shook my hand and hands me my commission.  After 20 months its about time.  Am all done flying so the next week will be crapout time.  I'll be plenty busy getting ready to leave this hole.       Maybe I'll be home next week and will be able to go hoist a few and crash out the merite of army and many fliers.  I'll warn you that you won't have a chance.-----     I made my preference for the Pacific theatre of war because those Germans are too darn smart.  I still have a long life to lead and haven't had my fill of all this moody flying around the country.      Those carrier boys who graduated last Wed got 15 days leave plus travel time to Florida.  So I hope they keep it up till I get mine.  Never can tell what the Navy will do.      Sorry I didn't get to answer your letter sooner but I wasn't sure of making it until I came down from that last flight.  Nothing can give me the bounce now except if I'm not physically fit.  And you know a cadet is always in the prime of condition.  After 2 years out in the Pacific, Jimmy Furara (married Bonnie Scobagen) finally got back to the states.  He called me from San Diego yesterday and he leaves again in two days and doesn't expect to get back for at least another year.  He sure is taking a shafting from the Coast Guard as they promised him shore duty when he hit the states again.    Well, Arnie, have to write a dozen letters today that I have neglected for the past 10 weeks.  So I'll close and hope this reaches you before you take the jump across the creek.  Good luck and I hope the army has taught you how to dodge flak! Bingo

Mr and Mrs A C Elchlepp 2726 So Girard Ave Minneapolis Minnesota U>S>A Lt A.C.Echlepp AAF CO Postmaster N.Y.NY August 1944 Dear Mom and Dad      We are nearing our destination when I wrote this.  I hope to see Dave before leaving.  I'll let you know about that later This letter won't be very long.  Just enough to let you know I'm well and feeling fine.  This trip has been quite a contrast to the last trip across.  The quarters are very good and the food very tasty.  Our meals are served in the dining room and are complete.  We have our own waiter throughout the voyage.  As usual there isn't too much to do aboard ship.  I've been playing a littly Joker and have cleared about 3 or 4 hundred dollars.  The ship is quite large and a lot nicer han the last one.  Very few got sick, if any.  The voyage has been rather smooth until the last few days, but is still not too bad.  The crew is fine and I'll write more in detail when I land.  I hoe this letter finds you all fine.  Give my love to Bernie and Vern and the babies.  Take care of yourselves.     Love and Kisses          Arnie War and Navy Departments V-Mail Service Sept 6 1944

US Army Air Forces Aug 3, 1944 Dear Mom and Dad     It certainly has been a warm day and the evening promisses to be pretty warm too.  I just got thru talking with you a short while ago.  I'm enclosing the Key to my overnite case.  I wish I could take it with me, but I can't so I'm sending it home.  The crew picture is inside so take care of that too.  I'm also enslosing the names and telephones and addresses of all the crew.  If you would have them typed and sent to each family it would be swell.  I didn't have time to have them typed and sent.     I talked with Mary right after talking with you.  She is fine and said she would write you soon      I dont want you worrying like you did last time.  I'll be alright.  I've had very adequate training and with a little bit of luck we will be O.K.  The sooner I go the sooner I'll be home.  Please be careful and I'll write as soon as I can when I get across.  If I'm in England I'll address my letter "Dear Mom and Dad"  If in Italy "Dear Family" in India "dear Folks" and if in the S. Pacific "Dear Mother and Father"  Be careful and write soon.     Love and Kisses            Arnie

US Army Air Forces Aug 7, 1944 Dear Mom and Dad      How's things?  Well, I'm still around.  I'm out here in New Jersey for a while.  There are a few things to be done before going over so we will get them out of the way here.  I will meet most of my old buddies from Maxwell and at Cedarwood.  We will probably all be going together.    Did I tell you I got my laundry and stuff alright?  I got them the next morning before leaving.  I guess I told you that I heard from Dave.  He is in England and seems to like it there.  I may get to see him.  I haven't much idea of where we are going, of course.  I'll know when I get there like the last time.        The war news certainly looks good.  If I'm not careful the dang thing will be over before I get there.     If everything goes alright I may get up to New York for an evening.  I'd like to see Don Garmess folks if possible.  They live in Mt. Vernon, NY.  How has the weather been since I lieft.  It certainly was swell while I was home.      Mom, do you think you could get Charlie a litte something for me.  I gave him a picture, but he should have some other bithday present.  I don't seem to be able to do much in the way of birthdays etc.  It's so hard, even more so here then ever before, to do much shopping.     It seems swell to be there for your party.  Mom, you are a pretty fair dancer.  In fact your darn good.  You and Dad dance very well together too.    That's about all for now.  You can write to me at this address.  I don't know whether you have gotten my A.P.O. address card yet, but if you haven't write to this address until further notice.     Don't worry about me too much  Take care of yourselves.  I'll be alright.  I can take care of myself quite well and should it happen that I can't quite take care of things I have a very capable crew to take over.  So there is no need to worry.  It's a very temporary seperation and we will all be together again.     Goodnight and I'll try to wrote again before leaving     Love and Kisses          Arnie

2726 So Girard Ave Minneapolis Minnesota U>S>A Lt A.C.Echlepp  0-821938 AAF CO Postmaster N.Y.NY August 26 1944 Dear Mom and Dad Friday August 25, 1944     I'm still running around and it will be several days before I'm settled to any extent.  Right now I'm at an assignment station awaiting assignment to a field.  It will take several days.   The English countryside is really quite beautiful, with rolling hills and hedges.  The food is good and my quarters are comfortable quite a bit different from the last time I arrived overseas.  I'll tell you more about that in a later letter.    John made a sketch of me on the ship coming over.  He is going to finish it up today and I'll try and send it home.  Incidentelly, when you see the beard don't get excited.  I grew one on the boat.  It's really not a beard, but more of a goatee.    This english money is throwing me for a lose, but I am slowly getting on to it.    I might give you a few suggestions of what I need.  I'd like some stationery.  When this runs out I'll have to start writing on toilet paper which is rather rough and not good for writing.  I liked that kind Dad gave me a while ago.  It was sort of blue with little hairs in it.  If you can get some good air-lite stationery that will be nice.    I hope to see Dave soon.  As yet I haven't located him, but he can't be too far.  England you know isn't as big as Minnesota.  With a little luck we should get together.    The way the war news looks.  I'll probably never fly over Germany.  I guess it's not that good, but it does look good.  I would be very unhappy if I were not able to fly my missions.  I will be maybe another month before I actually fly on combat missions.  Maybe a little less, but we have to learn English methods, etc.    How are the babies?  I sure miss them a lot.  Be sure and say hello to Bernie and Vern for me.  I'll write them when I get to my next station.  I hope you two are taking care of yourselves and not working too hard.      I saw all of you waving when I left the field that day.  I don't remember if I told you or not.  I guess that's about all for now.  I wish you would keep sending me the two comics that I like.  I'll write again soon.  In the meantime take care of yourselves and write soon.  Say hello to the Beales from me and also say hello to Mrs. Morton.  I'm feeling fine and am in good health.      Love and Kisses        Arnie

England August 30, 1944 Dear Mom and Dad      I received two letters from you mailed Aug 10 and 14th.  I got them on the 25th.  They were held up a while too because of our newly arriving, etc.  so that isn't bad.  I still got a letter from Mary, one from Alair, one from Ken, and cards from Charlie and Aunty Mary.      As expected I left my old location and moved on.  I was in London for a day.  We were greeted on arrival by several "buzz bombs" better known as Robot Bombs.  They do quite a bit of damage.       I was just getting to like England, but I'll not be here long.  I'm heading south.  Perhaps I'll be able to tell you where I am when I get there, but until then you'll have to guess.      Right now we have about the best station anyone could have.  We are awating plane transportation at this little town in the country of Cornwall.  It is a nice town and very typical English.  Our hotel is on a cliff overlooking the ocean and beach.  We have not a thing to do but run around.There are no restrictions or anything at all.  When our plane is ready they will call about 12 hrs in advance.  The food is very good and all in all it is strictly a life of ease.  I'm sick of it already, though.  The darn war will be over with before I get in it.      Has anything more been heard from Dave Garmess?  Charlie sent me a very cute birthday card.  I hope he had a nice birthday.  Maybe I'll be home, in fact I will be home for his next birthday.     Mom, you seem to be making a fortune on those dolls.       The war news certainly looks good doesn't it?  It is merely a matter of a short time more and the European war will be over     Has Helen had her operation yet?  That's going to be awfully painful.  I think it will help her tho.  You tell her I'll write when I get to my permanent base. Give my love to Bernie and Vern and to the babies.  Say hello to Mrs. Willette and Mrs. Morton and all the others.  I'll write again soon.  Take care of yourselves and write when you can         Love and kisses'       Arnie

ARNOLD CHARLES ELCHLEPP AUGUST 1944 TO DECEMBER 26 1944           September I, 1944                   Dear Mom and dad. I’m in sunny Italy now. I’ve not quite reached my destination, but it isjust a short trip from here by air. When I left England we flew to N. Africa and landed at Casablanca and stayed there awhile and then flew to Tunis and had another lay over. In the last week I’ve seen more of the world then I would in a lifetime in civilian life. I guess I told you I was in London. I also was in New Quay in the country of Cornwall. Casablanca is really cosmopolitan. There you will see every nation, big and small, represented. All these places in Africa and Italy are something to see, but the more you see of them the more one appreciate the US and particularly by one’s home state and town. I’ll be quite ready to settle down in Minneapolis after this war. If anyone mentions going any place, even to St. Paul I’m liable to throw them out. The war certainly is progressing, isn’t it? At this terrific pace 1 won’t get to do much. As for Christmas, folks I wish you would forget it as far as I’m concerned. I don’t need much but a few little things. It can’t be too long before it’s all over and we can celebrate Xmas a little late or, who knows, maybe early. I can use hankies, stationary, socks and any little thing like that. I know it’s no use telling you to forget it but please just make it something small. I can always use 35mm film. By the way. did my pictures come from Eastman? if Eastman’s haven’t called yet, mom, you’d better call them because I know they should be there by this time.                   September 14th 1944          Dear Mom and dad. 1 hope I haven’t worried you by not writing for quite a while. I’ve really been quite busy and when I haven’t been flying I’m so darn tired I pass out. I'ts not that bad really. In fact it’s quite nice here. I’m enclosing a clipping which tells some: about the story of my first mission. You may have read about it. We did a good job. We had to make an emergency landing on the way home. One engine was out and we were very low on fuel. We landed at a South African Air Force base here in Italy and spent the nite with them till a plane could come for us the next day. We really had a swell time while we were there.          We had a bad day last week when we raided Vienna. Every place in the group was shot up. We just lost one crew and they were seen to bail out. The missions are rather long running up to nearly 9 hours. That much flying in rather tiring, especially at high altitude where the temperature is from 25 to 30 degrees below zero. I’m in the best of health and really feeling swell. I’m in an excellent squadron and all in all “happy” about the whole thing... Well now for the “home front”. Has any word been heard from Dave Garmiss? I hope so. I haven’t received any mail since leaving England except one letter from you about 4 days ago. There is a tie-up somewhere along the line I know because none of us have received any. I’ll wait patiently, but anxiously. How are the babies? I miss them so much. You say hello to them for me and convey my hellos to Bernie and Verne, the Beals, Mrs. Morton, the mailman and the whole bunch. Tell Clyde to hold on I’ll get around to writing him someday. There is someone here that I know. He was up at operations looking for me. The Sergeant said that he was tall and blond and used to go with one of my sisters. I wonder if could be Connie Emerson. I’ll send home a couple hundred dollars soon. I have no use here for money whatever. I guess an allotment didn’t go thru this month so maybe I’ll send it to them. That will save you some time. Did my Kodachrome’s come? You will like the big one. Did I tell you I met a very good friend of Alair while I was in England. He also is a 24 pilot. By the way will you call Mr. and Mrs. Webster at Dale 2552 and tell them I'm still kicking. I missed them while I was home. They live at 33 Avon St. Paul. Well folks that’s about it for now. I hope you are well and taking care of yourself. Be careful. Love and Kisses           Arnie.  I’m enclosing a 10 Lire note which is equivalent to $10 in our money. It is occupational currency.

September 22, 1944           Dear mom and dad. How goes it? By now old Minnesota must be looking pretty good with her full dress on. The nites are getting chilly here, but the days remain rather warm. I suppose the pheasant season is well under way by this time. Someday I’m going hunting pheasants and surprise you by bringing some  back. I had a bad break the other day. My engineer got sick and will be in the hospital for at least 2 weeks. He has been sick for quite a while, but hasn’t told anybody and finally it got him down to the point where he couldn’t keep from showing it and consequently he is a pretty sick boy. I certainly depended on him a lot too. The rest of the crew is fine and feeling well. The bad weather is starting to come and it hinders our flying at times. Several missions I’ve been scheduled for have been called off because of bad weather at the target. The mail situation remains grim. I’ve received two letters from you since leaving England. One dated the 20th and one the 28th I’ve received no other mail. I know there is some for me someplace. It ought to start coming soon. As long as I hear from home and from Mary the rest does not matter a lot. John is still in a “cloud.” He writes a huge letter to his “coco” every day without fail. What a boy! The gift you got for Charlie put me on it will you please and how about my Koda prints? That picture of Charlie you sent certainly is swell. He really has form. Tell him I’ll be home to see him before long. Mom, your new creation really sound pretty. I’ll bet you are so busy that you can’t see. How is Helen coming with her operation? I’ll bet it hurt plenty. I hope it does her some good. So you are dancing again. I don’t know whether I told you mom, but you are about the smoothest dancer I’ve ever danced with. Anybody that can follow me has to be good. You and dad sail around like a couple of feathers. It’s about time for me to go now. I’m tower officer today and will have to go on duty soon. How’s the mailman? I need him over here to get me some. Say hello to everyone for me. Be careful and write soon.  Love and Kisses          Arnie

September 28 1944            Dear mom and dad. This won’t be very long, because 1 don’t feel too well. I just got a letter from Ann telling me Dave is missing in action. His plane was seen to go down slowly and apparently under control and eight chutes came out so there is every hope that he is alive and safe. I feel quite bad about it. I wrote a long letter to Ann. I wish you would write to Ann too and drop Dave’s folks a note. Just address it to Wales Wisconsin. I’m sure he is alright, but it will take some time to find out officially. Say a prayer for his safety. I was over to Dave Garmiss’s squad the other day and as for as they know he is a prisoner of war. He went down in France on May 23. The weather is starting to get bad here and will continue bad til spring. We won’t be flying as much now. I’m enclosing few pictures I’ve taken. The one of you and dad to you came out swell. I wish you could send them on to Mary. Dad looks pretty hungry for that cake, doesn’t he. How is Charlie and Bernie and Vern? How about my little cutie MaryKay. She never writes me. Say folks if you want to send anything I can always use a good can of coffee or maybe some dehydrated soup or anything that will keep. I suppose the war will slow down now that winter is coming on. They can get it over with any time now as far as I am concerned. I don’t like this cold and rainy weather. My engineer is still in the hospital and will probably be there another week or so. The rest of the crew is fine. Mary ought to be coming home soon. Be sure and ask her to stop and see Ann either coming or going. I feel as sorry for Ann. If anything like that ever happens to me I want you to take it easy and don’t worry yourself sick. They always notify you that so and so is “missing in action” before an investigation is made and chances are that whoever it is, is a prisoner of war and alright. The army is all red-tape and it takes so much time for anything like that to be cleared up. They’d give me back in a hurry because they’d have more trouble with me then without me. Write soon and be careful. I hope you are all well and happy. Say hello to everyone for me and write soon. The mail still isn’t coming. I guess election ballots hold top priority. Be careful and don’t work to hard.  Love and Kisses  Arnie How was Helen’s operation. I hope it didn’t hurt her too much.

October 6, 1944          Dear mom and dad. The weather has really set in here. We didn’t fly for a week straight. The last mission I flew was a little rough. After bombs away the flak started coming up. It was too accurate to suit me. We got hit several times, but no one was hurt except John and luckily he had his flak helmet on and the piece of flak bounced off. One of my friends in a plane in front of us was hit and died after they got him to the hospital. It was a lucky hit and he just happened to be in the way. These days that we don’t fly are spent in fixing up our quarters. Right now we are working on a stove and have it pretty well set to go. I’m getting your letters pretty well now. It takes around two weeks for them to get here. They will get here faster after all the elections ballots have been mailed. The ballots hold A-I priority in the mails. In that condensed paper you sent I see where a very good friend of mine was killed here in Italy. You may have read it. His name was Fischer and I graduated with him from high school. The last time I saw him was at Casper. He also was in training there. I suppose by this time Helen is over her operation. And well on the road to recovery. I wish I could send her some flowers or something, but it is quite impossible. I hope that's the way I’d want to go if had to and so don’t feel to bad. If I’m reported missing in action chances are 50-50 that I’d be alive and airight. We know lot of crews bail out and come back here after escaping. I guess I told you that I went to Dave’s squadron which is not far from here and as far as they know he is a prisoner of war, which isn’t bad. I hope Dave fared as well, I’ve never felt so bad about anything as I had when I heard that.  I think he is alright and will turn up soon. You keep writing to Ann. I got the letter you forwarded from Joey here . I’m writing him today also. How is Mr. Morton now? I hope he got into something he likes a little but I guess he just doesn’t like the army. I guess it’s about time for me to close. Give my best to the mailman, the girls, the Morton’s and everyone else. Write soon  Love and Kisses           Arnie          4

After we land after a mission we are given coffee and doughnuts and boy does that hot coffee taste good after all that time in the air. Or else there is a shot of whiskey for those who want it. As yet! have not had any, but many more missions like the last one I’m liable to take one to steady myself. Thanks so much mom for getting those birthday gifts for me. It’sjust about impossible for me to get anything. You will have to get Mary’s Xmas present from me too. I certainly keep you running.      Well dad, I’m glad you finally got around to writing me. How’s the job going? I hope you are taking a little easy. I hope Aunty Irene and Aunty Mary are feeling better now. I’m writing Aunty Mary soon. You tell her how it is will you. I hardly write to anyone except you and Mary. Mom you certainly have a lot of canning done. I certainly could go for some from the pantry. You mentioned something about wondering if I were on those missions into Germany. Never can tell, don’t avail.                 I‘ve certainly missed the Follies beginning and several of them since. I’m glad Helen’s operation went well. I do hope it will do some good. I’m glad you liked the pictures. You can give Helen one of the small ones and then sent me the other. You tell Helen to take care of herself... Well I guess that about does it for now. I’ll write again sooner next time. Take care of yourselves and write again soon. Say hello to all the gang from me.     Love and kisses       Arnie Dear mom and dad. Well, how goes it now? It’s pretty late at night now and I’m sitting by my stove writing you. In fact the lights just went out, so I’m continuing by flashlight, if it holds out.         How is Helen feeling now? I hope she got over the operation and that it did her some good. A couple of days ago I got two letters from you. One from Aug21 and one from Oct 9. The Aug one was to my old APO. There are a few of those straggling in yet. The flying is coming along famously, I guess. I told you that on the last mission I flew deputy lead in our squadron. I’m flying no 2 or 3 position pretty regularly now. It’s nothing very big, but it shows they appreciate a little effort at good formation flying. I like to fly good formation and always try hard at least. I’m getting near the halfway mark. If it wasn’t for the weather I would have around 30 more missions, but it’s something that can’t be helped. I flew practice formation today. I flew as co-pilot and was checking out a new pilot. He did pretty well and should be alright. His landing was a little rough, but with a little practice he’ll have it down. My engineer is still in the hospital. He has been in for month now. He has jaundice. I hope he is back soon because he is a good man, and I need him.  I got my gunners promoted to Sgt. They feel pretty good about that. I was so happy to her about Dave being a prisoner. Happy in the sense that he is alive and comparatively safe. All he has to do now is sweat out the termination of her war. At the rate we are going we will have him out in no time at all. Ann wrote me immediately, of course, and she is so happy.  I also got a letter from Dave’s wife. I’ve been trying to get something definite on Dave. I’m a little afraid there of this because he has been missing 41/2 months and no notification by the war dept. has reached his father or wife.  I'm going over again soon and see what more I can find out. Dad you certainly must have done a swell job on painting and papering the apt., according to mom. If it’s anything like your usual work, I know it must be good. Don’t forget to take it a little easy though. I got a letter from Mary today and she says that Robert son ran into their car and smooched a door. That poor car takes more beatings just sitting by itself. John says that you and his mom have quite a few of “wars over the phone”. You must have a terrific store of home canned goods, mom. I drool when I think of them. How are the babies? I’ve got to write Bernie and Vern soon. You tell them I’m thinking of them and to take care of themselves and to say hello to little MaryKay and my boy Charlie. I guess that’s about all for now, folks.  Write when you can and be careful. Give my best to the mailman and everyone. Good night Your Jr. birdman Arnie                                   PS No1 Do you think you can get me some Christmass cards like last years?                                   PS No2 I don't know whether I mentioned it or not but I was promoted to 1st Lt. awhile ago.  That's about $27.00 more a month                   Thursday October 26 Love and Kisses      Arnie          October21 1944  Dear mom and dad. Well, how goes it now? It’s pretty late at night now and I’m sitting by my stove writing you. In fact the lights just went out, so I’m continuing by flashlight, if it holds out.   How is Helen feeling now? I hope she got over the operation and that it did her some good. A couple of days ago I got two letters from you. One from Aug 21 and one from Oct 9. The Aug one was to my old APO. There are a few of those straggling in yet. The flying is coming along famously, I guess. I told you that on the last mission I flew deputy lead in our squadron. I’m flying no 2 or 3 position pretty regularly now. It’s nothing very big, but it shows they appreciate a little effort at good formation flying. I like to fly good formation and always try hard at least. I’m getting near the halfway mark. If it wasn’t for the weather I would have around 30 more missions, but it’s something that can’t be helped. I flew practice formation today. I flew as co-pilot and was checking out a new pilot. He did pretty well and should be alright. His landing was a little rough, but with a little practice he’ll have it down. My engineer is still in the hospital. He has been in for month now. He has jaundice. I hope he is back soon because he is a good man, and I need him. I got my gunners promoted to Sgt. They feel pretty good about that.

ARNOLD CHARLES ELCHLEPP AUGUST 1944 TO DECEMBER26 1944                           Thursday October 26                   Dear mom and dad. There is no mission today because of weather. I was scheduled but the weather was so very bad this morning and last nite that they didn’t even bother waking us for briefing. We have reconstructed our stove. It works on a vaporization principle now. The fuel vaporizes and comes out of a little hole in the pipe as a gas and burns that way. There is a lot less soot and it is a hotter flame with less fuel consumption. It sure feels good on those cold, wet, windy days. At this writing I am in a tent-house next to ours. There is a Capt. Friend of mine here and after I finish we will play a game of hearts. That’s about all we play. A few days ago I lost my identification bracelet. I feel kind of bad about it. The little clasp must have come loose and fell off. That’s how 1 lost my last one. My right arm in an airplane always busy and there is quite a strain on the wrist. As yet it hasn’t been located. I with you would get me anotherjust like it and get the clasp reinforced. If you can’t it fixed, send it on and I’ll have it fixed. Take the money out of my account. There is another thing I need and that is silver bars. There are few insignias to be had here. So if you would send them on too I would greatly appreciate it. Mom whenever you need money for anything takes it from my account, especially for Doctors fees. Don’t miss going to see a doctor because you can’t afford it. I won’t have any of that. The money is there or you to use, and take advantage of it. Why don’t you get those draperies and things you need. They can be as a gift from me. I’m sorry you won’t be getting anything from the Industrial Commission, but don’t let it worry you.  We’ll get along alright. Please take it a little easy, mom. So, the “dickens” doesn’t like to have her teeth cleaned. I’ll bet she is the cutest thing there is. Does that bank balance included last month’s allotment” I’ll be sending home a little more this month. I guess I told you I have a 100 dollar bank allotment more instead of the $150 and $75 for bonds. Are you getting my bonds? Well, folks that’s about all for now.  I’m glad Helen is feeling a lot better. Be sure she takes it a little easy to that she doesn’t go to work too soon. A very good friend of mine came in with a new crew a couple of days ago. I roomed with him at Advanced and was at Maxwell field with him. Say hello to everyone for me; the Beals, the Morton’s, the mailman and everyone else. Take care of yourself and write soon Love and Kisses           Arnie

ARNOLD CHARLES ELCHLEPP AUGUST 1944 TO DECEMBER26 1944

October31, 1944 ITALY          Dear mom and dad. This makes about the 8th day in a row that we haven’t flown a mission. I’ve been scheduled every day, but the weather has been so hard weather here or at the target that we haven’t done much good. I’ve been flying practice missions and test laps and have flown to Brix several times. I’ve received 3 letters since last writing to you. One was from Aug 16 the others from Oct 13 and 20th. With this permanent APO it takes about 8 to 10 days or your letters to reach me. I can’t remember if told you in my last letter about the drawing John made of me. I’ve sent it home and you probably have it by this time. Before framing it have a mat made for it (like Mary’s big colored picture) and then frame it. Dayton’s ought to be able to fix you up. I want you to pay for it with my money because it is a present from me. I’ll bet the house realty looks nice now with al the new paint and wall paper. Dad, are you getting enough cigarettes? I get a pack a day. I wish I could send them home but that can’t be done. I’ve read where there is quite a civilian shortage. I hope Dr. Reed does us some good. Mom, you keep going to the Dr. whenever you need to. I’ll take care of the expenses. Thank Vern for me for cleaning my guns. I was a little worried about those not being cleaned. Anytime he wants to use them it’s ok with me.  Mary told me about Neena being married in New York. I hear from the kids in the troupe every once in a while, how is Aunty Mary? Tell her I’m thinking of her and 1 hope to get a letter off to her soon. I hope Charlie and the “dickens” are fine. It’s too much to hope that they are behaving themselves. I’m enclosing a picture of my airplane. This was taken by a photographer in the lead plane of the squadron. I was flying no2 position that day. That’s me in the cockpit. The name is Mexicali Rose. The “se” on the Rose is too indistinguishable because it wasn’t outlined at the time. That little block before with white markings is the number of missions the plane has. Each little white mark is a painted bomb. It’s a swell airplane and has brought us back many times. Those are guns sticking out the bottom. The ball turret retracts and the guns are only visible now. You can also see a big white “C” for Charlie on the side. The other picture was taken over the target. All that black stuff is flack. This is comparatively light stuff  Well, 1 guess this ends another letter. Take care of yourselves and write soon. Say hello to everyone for me Love and Kisses          Arnie          November 6 1944 ITALY          Dear mom and dad... Life goes on a usual. There is nothing much new, except that the weather is getting a little better and we have been able to get off the ground and to our target. I got a letter from Mary today and 3 letters from you, mom containing the funny papers. It won’t be long now before Mary is home. That will be nice.  I’m enclosing a Map of Europe with the random targets we hit. It was in “Stars n Stripes” on the anniversary of her 14th Air force celebration 1 year ago. Vienna Munich, B-24 Liberators of USAF over Oil Refinery at Blechhammer Germany, 27 August 1944, Regensburg, Brix and several others are our really tough targets. The flak is intense and accurate usually at these places. The last mission I was no. I was flying deputy lead, which is no. 2 position. In case the leader has trouble and has to go back no. 2 position takes over the lead. The time before I flew in No. 3 position in the group on a raid too Linz. The colonel was leading and a major was deputy lead and the little Arnie Lt was in no. 3 position. It’s not a lot, but to me it means a lot because it’s a little proof that they appreciate your flying and that you are flying good formations. Those are fellows that have many more missions then I that are flying behind me. I hope before I leave that I will be able to lead an attack unit or at least be leading a box. We fly now on the basis of 35 sorties and then we go home for a rest. Before it was 50 missions. The differences being that a sortie is one take-off and landing after hitting the target. Some of the missions like Munich and Vienna are counted or more as doubles, so if you take off and raided Vienna and returned that would be one sortie, but 2 missions. The deal now being that you complete 35 sorties but 2 missions. The deal now being that you complete 35 sorties instead of 50 missions see what I mean? It works out about the same. I have 23 missions in now; but only 15 sorties. There is only one disadvantage and that is that now that most of the missions are doubles. In the long run it will work out about the same. I hope you two are feeling swell. I haven’t heard from you for quite a while except for the papers you sent. How is Helen now? I hope she is completely recovered and in the pink. Did you get the picture of my airplane yet?  I guess that’s about all for now. Give my love to Bernie and Vern and the “dickens” and Charlie  boy. Be careful and take care of yourselves Love and Kisses.             Arnie

ARNOLD CHARLES ELCHLEPP AUGUST 1944 TO DECEMBER26 1944                   November 12 1944 ITALY                 Dear mom and dad.  It’s a lovely day. Just about like an autumn day back home. I’m very happy because I found my bracelet. I hope you didn’t get another for me, but if you did it’s OK. I’ve been flying quite a bit, mostly local flights, tho. The weather has been too bad to send out a mission. I flew to Maples the other day. I saw some of the most beautiful Venetian vases there. I believe you said that Mary is collecting vases. I’m going to try and get her one when I go there  next. They are very old and are hand painted.          So our old friend FDR was elected! Thank God! Our bomb group; was awarded the distinguished unit citation this last week at a very impressive ceremony. That’s the same citation Roy was wearing when you saw him. He is really getting along.       One thing before 1 forget it. If you haven’t addressed my Christmass cards already you needn’t bother because it will take them so long to get here and I can buy some at the PX although the selection is limited. If you do have them fine —send them on. Mary must be home by now. Did she see Ann while in Chicago? 1 hope so. 1 received a package from Mary a while ago with some film 2 logs of toffee and some dehydrated soup and a beautiful card. In fact I’m heating water now to make some of that soup — I loves it. You tell Mary that I’ll write her soon.  Mom you write a check on my account for Helen because I know1she needs it. There is one other thing. I want you to get a new dress and shoes etc., on me. You never think about those things for yourself You might as well get them because I’m going to tell Mary to make you get them. My mail is coming in fine now. My crews address is the same as mine. You have there names. They are all SSgt’s now except L. T. Rea and he is a corporal. They built themselves a house for the winter and outside they have a big wood plaque painted bright red and in Brown letters they have “ELCHLEPP’S CREW”. I got a letter last nite from Neil’s and one from Bernie, Charlie and the “dickens” enclosed a short note. Will you thank the mailman for me for his congrats. He always writes a little something on the envelope. Did I tell you that my engineer is out of the hospital now and back on flying status?  I wish you two would take it a little easy. I know you both are working too hard so slow up a little. Have you received the drawing John made of me? lie is making another — goatee and all and it will really be a honey. I’m enclosing a picture of myself taken by the plane. It’s not very clear. The panther is an  inscription, the bomb represents the number of missions and the swastikas the number of enemy planes to its credit. One airplane had an accident today. The engineer didn’t check the nose  wheel to see if it was down before landing and consequently it fell forward on its nose banged it up so that it won’t be flying with us for a while. It was another crew that was flying it.  Well, the time has come for me to sigh off for today and besides my soup is about ready.. .yum..yum. Take care of yourselves and give my best to everyone. Write soon. Love and Kisses             Arnie            8

ARNOLD CHARLES ELCHLEPP AUGUST 1944 TO DECEMBER26 1944          November 24 1944 ITALY          Dear Mom and dad. I’m sitting in the club now writing you. I just finished a couple of games of hearts. We play an awful lot of hearts. I wanted to write you yesterday, but after eating and sitting in one of our lounge chairs here in the club I felt so full and relaxed that I didn’t get around to writing. Paul says hello. Now you ask, “Who is Paul’? Well, he is a bombardier friend of mine that drops me off to church every Sunday. He is sitting here beside me now waiting to start another game of hearts. We had a very nice dinner yesterday, Turkey and everything. Of course it wasn’t as good as yours, mom, but then if it was that good there wouldn’t be much to look forward too, as far as gastronomic pleasures go. I have plenty to look forward too. I received your Xmas box this evening. Of course the candy and nuts are well on there way to being exterminated. I'm saving the Xmas packages until Xmas. Mom, if this letter reached you in time I wish you would send Alair a gardenia corsage for her birthday on Dec. 2, just put a card from mc. I received your letter a while ago with the bank receipts in. You were certainly on the go when Mary was home. Dad I’m sorry you have a hard time getting cigarettes. We get 7 packs a week and they are all the popular brands. I wish I could send them home, but of course that’s impossible. What did you get for Frack and Mary? Mary writes that the babies are about the cutest thing that ever happened. I certainly miss them. There isn’t a lot of new news. I’m enclosing a clipping out of “Stars and Stripes” about one of our raids. John has completed his latest sketch of me, complete with goatee and mustache. It’s really a nice picture. He is sending it to his “little girl” first and she will send it to you. Well my favorite people, Ill close now How are you Bernie? 1 hope you are resting and taking care of yourself. Give my best to everyone and write soon. Love and kisses         Arnie.                     November 29 1944                      9

November 21 1944 ITALY  Dear mom and dad. I hope you haven’t been worrying too much this last week since I haven’t written for about 8 days. The weather has been very good this past week and consequently we flew quite a bit. We flew some very successful raids during the week and we should not have to hit them again for some time. I got a letter from Mary yesterday and she was telling me how nice the house looked. I’m certainly anxious to see it. That was perfectly alright about loaning  the money. Have you got the new dress and shoes that I ordered you to get? Dad you see that she gets them. Have you been getting my bonds? Did you have a nice visit with Mrs. Philips? I know you must have. I’ll have to write her soon. I’m a flight commander now, in case I forgot to mention it before. I probably won’t fly but 1 out of 4 missions now. We had to return early yesterday because our oxygen system failed and of course it is impossible to fly at altitude without it. It was good to hear about Alvin’s boy. He has nothing to worry about now, but the duration of the war. He can consider rest. I have about 30 missions in now. The weather is bad again today. There was no mission scheduled this day. It won’t be long before thanks giving, will it? I hope you are planning a big dinner. I’m enclosing a Holy card that was given to me by a nun to whom I gave a few cents. I go to confession and communion quite regularly. I just finished a roll of film and as soon as it’s printed I’ll send you some prints. Write soon and take care of yourselves. Give my best to everyone. Love and Kisses            Arnie

November 29 1944          Dear mom and dad.  It’s pretty early in morning to be writing, but I meant to write last nite and didn’t so I thought I’d better get a letter off this morning. There isn’t much news, just the same old stuff. The weather has been pretty bad the last few days so we have been held on the ground. Of course there is always ground school. The Sgt. Just came in and informed me that I have limit trainer in an hour. I doubt if my Xmas cards will get here on time to mail them much before Xmas, but I guess there being a little late won’t hurt anybody. I got a letter yesterday from a good friend of Alairs and mine. He is a navigator in a group very near the 460th so I  should be seeing him before long. I hope everything is OK at home. I haven’t heard from you in over a week. I suppose it’s getting pretty chilly at this time. I guess that’s about all for now. Just wanted you to know I’m thinking of you. Give my best to everyone and write soon.  Love and Kisses         Arnie                   December 14, 1944           What a miserable day this is. It is cold and raining and the mud is up to my ears. The birds are even grounded today. Some new crews came in a while ago and another co-pilot on one of them was a fellow that had come back from the Pacific with me. We have a lot of new crews in; I was checking one of them out yesterday. The flying has been curtailed because of this weather. I was scheduled to fly today, but of course we didn’t get off. I was leading the 3rd attack wave,  which normally has 14 ships in it. Mary sent me a little Xmas tree with trimming all over it. It really is cute and will make Xmas a lot more complete. I believe I told you I received a box from you with the nuts and candy in and this stationary. I sort of knew it was stationary and I was very much in need of it so I opened it. The chocolates were moldy. I guess that kind of stuff has to be in tins. The nuts were also soft. We get plenty of nuts over here anyway so that didn’t matter too much. I would have liked those “Fanny Farmer” chocolates tho. Mary also enclosed some of this Nestles ready mix hot chocolate and some of that dehydrated soup.. If you can get a hold of either of these I certainly could use them. That stuff really tastes good for a snack between meals or before bed. My boys are all staff SSgt now. I got them their ratings this month. My nose gunner. Rea, is a tech Sgt. But he’ll have his Sstaff this month. My engineer and radio operator will have their Tech SSgt rating this month also. I don’t know whether you got the wrong idea about this citation or not. It was a group citation and not just me. It’s still pretty nice but I don’t-----missing-----           We will be going to Capri pretty soon, I guess. This isn’t exactly the time of year to be going there but it will be something different. I hope you aren’t worrying about me too much because everything is going fine and I’m feeling swell. I got your Xmas card of Dec. 5 yesterday. I guess that’s about all I have for now. Take care of yourselves and write soon. I’ll write in a day or so. That will be my annual Xmas letter.  Love and Kisses     Arnie                   Ps Did I tell you I have no goatee anymore?                   POST MARKED DEC 15 1944 Lt A.C.Elchlepp 0-821978 762’~ Sq. 460th bomb group (H)          APO 520 c/o P.M. NEW YORK, NEW YORK                   Addressed to Mr. and Mrs. A.R.Elchlepp 2726 So Girard Ave Minneapolis 8 Minnesota USA                  10

December 22, 1944 Italy Dear mom and Dad I'm back again.  I received a letter from you this evening or rather a card with a note on it.  I hope you are getting my letters a little better now.  I wrote on the 6, 10, 18, 22nd.      We have been flying a little more regularly the last couple of weeks.  A while ago we made a run up to Breaux.  That is our furthest target.  It really is to far to go.  We got back to Italy and ran into a storm.  Our gas was getting rather low and the visibility was down to 1/2 mile so I hunted me a field and sat down.  It was the 464ths field and I was really happy to be on the ground again.  We were in the air for 9 hrs.  It's bad enough flying that long but, to come back and find your field closed is really bad.  We were well taken care of over there.  I saw my friend from Mpls.  I mentioned him before.  His name is Lunderberg.  I also saw a very good friend of mine and Alairs.  He is a navigator in the 468th.  He's quite a fellow.           We were shot up a little, but none of us were hit.  Just a few holes in the ship. John and I have quite a larder between us.  His mother sent him about the same things as you did, so we were pretty well set for food.  It's really swell.  You sent the things that will be for me the most good.  The Beal's sent me a 2 lb box of "Fanny Farmer" candy.  I got boxes from Bernie and Vern, Mary, the Beals, Ann, and Alair.  It's really swell, and then I got a lot of cards also.  I guess I told you Mary sent a little Christmass tree.  We have it here on our table now and decorated a little more.     It really looks nice.  Mary sent me some pictures she took at home.  Those babies are the cutest things,  I don't seem to have much to say tonight so I'll close for now I hope you had a nice Xhristmass, Be careful     Love and Kisses      Arnie

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