October 8, 1943

Oct. 8, 1943

Darling Mark,

         Hello Sweetheart ! ! !

         I got your letter this afternoon. I just came back from a ballgame at Needles. The 89^th was playing the 16^th F.A. They beat us 2-1.

         We’ve got formal retreat tonite, so I’m writing this now – by the time that’s over & we eat chow it’ll be too dark to write.

         We’re still eating “C” rations out here & very seldom it’s good. Half the time I don’t eat. Between that & the heat I’ve lost 20 lbs. already. You seem to be doing alright tho (heavy).

         I guess the Paratroops are out now since the Div. has been reorganized. I could have went – but I wouldn’t have got a furlough & I don’t want to go that bad. I’ll probably get a furlough sometime in Nov.

         About 40 of us are leaving here Mon. or Tues. & going to Camp Barkley, Texas to pick up some vehicles & drive them to Camp Polk, La.

         Well we’re getting ready to fall out so I’d better close now.  Notice my new address on the back. Bye now. Write Soon.

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All My Love                 Johnny

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