Slitherine

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Dear Grace,

It seem like forever since those balmy days San Francisco. I can't tell you how much I miss you. There hasn't been much to write about the last few weeks. Just days and days of Ocean. We've been heading into the South Pacific at a pretty good clip - I became a shell-back (I'll have to explain that to you one day). We fly patrols over Sara to keep her safe - she's home, not some other gal.

I think we're heading to something big though. We've joined up with a few other carriers. My buddy Jack, one of the bomber pilots, was looking for subs yesterday, said we're due to intercept a big convoy of friendlies that was heading north. Looked like a bunch of troop ships he said. Rumor has it that it's our turn to hit back at the Japs. Looks like we're going to invade one of their islands. I'm sure those Nips aren't going to let us have it for free, so we'll finally get to see some action.


Your truely,
Eric

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Dear Sandy,

It seem like forever since those balmy days Honolulu. I can't tell you how much I miss you. There hasn't been much to write about...

"It is obvious that you have greatly over-estimated my regard for your opinion." - Me

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Frank,

We're taking it back to the Japs this time. We hit some base called "Tulagi" this morning. Everybody's been itching for a fight, and I think we gave 'em a good one. Strafed a couple flying boats, and even hit a pair ships anchored nearby. "Reb" (my gunner) said we planted our thousand-pounder just forward the rear turrent on one of them. By the time we left, the two ships were settling (they might have been destroyers, but I didn't feel like stopping to ask). We shot the place up pretty good. There's a convoy of Marines that we're shepherding, so I'm guessing that's probably their target.

So how are things over there with the Brits? Sis wrote that they finally shipped you guys off to England. That can't be such a bad deal - you get to go to pubs every night while I'm over here fighting the war...

Just giving ya a hard time. Send Adolf a single-finger salute for me. Stay safe, and write back.

Jack

"It is obvious that you have greatly over-estimated my regard for your opinion." - Me

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Dear Mum,

They gave us new fighters last week, they're called Kittyhawks and are much faster than the Wirraways we've been flying the last few months. It's got six guns and when they roar, you can feel the plane shake! We're sure to kill some Japs with these!

Our squadron has been moved to New Guinea, the old man is great. Tough as nails, but you can tell he's always looking out for us. He flew in North Africa against the Jerries, and already has 3 kills to his credit, so he's good. There's a decent town nearby, but mostly we stay at the airfield. They're worried about malaria, and gave us some pills to take. You'll be glad to know that I am actually taking mine, even though my mates give me a hard time about it. The food is all just canned meat and veg. I know times are tough with rationing, but any kind of taste from home (Biscuits!) would be welcome.

How's Thom? I know he wants to be out here with me, but he'll get his turn in another two years. Well, maybe not. We'll probably beat these Japs and be home by Christmas. I haven't heard anything about Michael, his unit was in North Africa as well, but I haven't gotten a letter from him since we left Townsville.

Well I gotta go Mum. The CO keeps us in the air practicing all the time. All my love to you Mum, and tell Dad he's going be really proud of me.

Your son,
Jeff

=

Dear Mrs. Walters,

I am truely sorry to inform you that your son PO Jeff Walters was killed in action yesterday, while defending our airfield from attack by air forces of the Empire of Japan. He died attempting to save his wingman from an attacking fighter; when he too was attacked and shot-down by the enemy. I was involved in the battle as well. I was a witness to your son's heroism, and unfortunately to his death. His remains will be returned to your family for burial.

I know it will be of no consolation, but for his heroism, bravery, and sacrifice, I have recommended you son for the Distinguished Flying Cross.

My deepest sympathies,
SQNLDR Ian Vincent

"It is obvious that you have greatly over-estimated my regard for your opinion." - Me

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I like the system.

"It is obvious that you have greatly over-estimated my regard for your opinion." - Me

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Dear Millie,

We landed at a Jap island called Tulagi today. I think it might be the first offensive of the war out here, so that's important that I'm a part of it. Obviously, I'm safe. The Japs put up a spirited defense, but we really rolled over them. There were planes bombing from the carriers, and the Navy's cruisers were throwing shells over-head. It really was quite the show. When we got ashore, the Japs fought hard, but things were pretty well shattered, and it wasn't much of an organized defense. The had warned us about a them running at us yelling "Banzai!" and waving their swords. Sure enough, out they came. Was brave and stupid I suppose.

So how is little Will? He's 4 months old now, right? God, I wish I could see him. It's great that you can live your Mom and Dad until I get back. Be sure to thank them for me. I'm sending all that I can.

Well, I've got go. Keep me in your prayers.
Your devoted husband,
Robert

"It is obvious that you have greatly over-estimated my regard for your opinion." - Me

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Many enemy troops landing with heavy naval support.
Beach defenses destroyed.
Airfield CP soon overrun.
I lead A-company to hold rear.
8th NG and Kure/6 retreating to Nagoniara.

For the Emporer!

Maj. Ikawa
CO 8th Nav Gd

"It is obvious that you have greatly over-estimated my regard for your opinion." - Me

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Dear Pop,

We hit the Japs pretty hard today. They had what looked like a couple of cruisers anchored at Rabaul.
We shuttled through our base at Port Moresby, and then the next morning left before dawn.
We came in low, and scored several direct hits on two of them. They were burning pretty fierce by the time we left. The flack was pretty intense and there were several Jap fighters up - I'm sorry to say we did lose a few planes, but I think putting those cruisers out of action for a while is a good thing. Our craft took a few hits, but I'm safe and the crew as well.

They pulled us back to Townsville in Australia. It's decent city, with plenty to do. Certainly better than Port Moresby - I can't think of much to good to say for it, other than I'm glad we're not there right now.

So how's the farm doing? Is Uncle Bill still around to give you a hand...?

"It is obvious that you have greatly over-estimated my regard for your opinion." - Me