Sat. 4:30 P.M.

23 Mar. 46

My darling Fran: -

Well dear today I received five more letters from my honey bringing the total to 18 since I've hit Japan. Evidentially the mail situation is getting better. I still haven't received your packages. I wish I would get them because I'm sure there's tobacco in one of them and that’s what I need the worse. We are rationed to one carton per week. I really don't smoke that many but I have good use for them. I didn't write yesterday because I really felt terrible I had a bad sore throat and my cold was worse. I bought some antiseptic to gargle with so my throat is somewhat better. Stan, Cookie, and I roamed around all day yesterday and I had Bill's camera and took some pictures so if he ever gets them developed I'll send them home. While we were down town we got our daily rations, 1 bar candy 1 pack gum. We also seen several "shorts" at Ernie Pyle's theatre. Last night we stayed in and played poker. Haven't been outside the building all day today as its been raining so I guess that means another poker game tonight. We received our beer ration yesterday but the only bad feature, we have to learn to drink it warm but it is stateside beer. They passed out some war trophies so I got a Samurai sword. It isn't in too good shape but I'm sending it home to Milt as I imagine he will like it. According to this mornings paper we will be out after 18 months of service so that means I have about 9 more months to go. At least if it’s true we all will have something to look forward to. I hate staying here not knowing when I will ever get home. I'm still praying for that day I can get back in [East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania]. with my honey that I love so much. I hope you believe me and be a good girl because I promise I'm being a very good boy. We haven't heard as yet whether we start school next week or what we do so as usual everything is all screwed up that’s the way the Army is. We haven't received any pay since we've been here but as soon as I do I'll send it home by money order so you look for a money order from me every month starting April. I'll keep the receipt until I hear that you received it. Give my regards to your folks and our friends. Remember I love you more than anything in the world. Write everyday and be good.

With all my love,

Your honey.