June 12, 1946

Dear Mom & Pop,

Just got your letter of June 9 today and I was sure glad to hear from you.

They asked me what duty I wanted, and I think I told you I asked for China. Well, I’m not going to China; instead I’m leaving tomorrow for the Atom-bomb test at Bikini. There are about 30 of us; most of them were in our class that was in San Diego. We have to go over to the Naval Air station at Oakland, California and catch a plane out to wherever the ship is. Incidentally, the name of the ship is the Mount McKinley. It’s the flag ship of Task force I, which is in Bikini now. I’m just as glad they’re sending me there, as it will be something to see. To tell you the truth I don’t think that A-bomb is all that they claim. This isn’t time for Buck Rogers yet.

I don’t know whether I’ll be home for the holidays or not. From now on I don’t know a thing. Now I’m going to close these few lines. Now don’t worry about me, of course I guess its no use telling you that. Take care of yourselves.

All my love,

Alfred