July 21, 1942

Dear Jack,

I’m at work now, but sneaking a little time from Uncle Sam. No, I’m watching out and whenever anyone comes in I’ll be ready to usher them up.

Guess who was in to see us the other day. Yep, Loretta Young in person. She came in with a man who had a pass, so she didn’t need to be ushered up by us, but when time came for her to come down – out goes little Ruthie to get her. It’s sorta against the rules to do that, but I did anyway and didn’t get fired. On the way down we had quite a chat and at “the end of the trail” she took my paw and offered a word of thanks. The next day Wendell Wilkie came in but after Loretta he was a second issue.

My brother, Jimmy, was home for the week-end. This time next year he will be along with you – an officer. The only difference is that he won’t have his wings. My other brother is still at Keesler Field. Have you ever been there for any training?

Thanks a lot kid for the cute picture of Lt. Coffman (well, almost) gosh with my wings, U. of Richmond pin and now the picture I just have a remembrance of you with me all the time. Of course that’s not really necessary, because I don’t think I’ll ever forget.

I was showing the Dating application to some of the kids and they got quite a kick out of it. Guess I’m on file now and will be getting a big rush of dates. Ha! Ha! (Especially with the little snap-shot that I sent) I told some of the fellows that my Pop gave the application to me and they can’t understand where he got it from.

I’m on my fifteen minute rest now eating some ice cream while scribbling this epistle to you.

After work tonight I’m meeting two or three Westhampton girls for dinner and a show. Jimmy Dorsey is playing at the Capital, but I saw him the other night, so I hope we go elsewhere.

Man, I’m telling you “he was so solid he was rigid.” Wish you could be here to hear him also, but there I go talking through my hat. Anyway I can wait till October and in the meantime I don’t want anything to interfere with you getting your commission.

(Con’t later)

I’m at home now. As you might have guessed we went to see Jimmy Dorsey. That makes 3 shows for me, but it’s worth it just to see and hear Bob Eberlee (his singer) for me.

Every time I get a letter from you, it’s from a different place. I know I’ll write sometimes and you will be already on the run elsewhere. Why did y’all go to Turner Field or is that a Military secret?

Gosh, you sure are flying along down there with your course. Do be careful though, honey. Don’t take any unnecessary risks. I guess I’m just talking through my hat, for I sure know quite a bit less about it all than you.

Yes, indeed, I’m heading back for the U. of R. in Sept. so fast can hardly wait until “ratting” and October come, especially the latter. Wings or no commission, I’ll be “heaping” glad to see you.

If I’m not too inquisitive what does the AAFAFS mean in the letter head and also this (#) at the end of the letter? I say you sure are a tricky signal guy.

Don’t fly too high, but even more important not too low.

I don’t suppose you would be in Washington on your trip to Langly field will you? Maybe it isn’t even near here.

Good nite and love,

Ruth