4/25/44 Italy #97
My Dear Wife:
This being my birthday, I shall give a complete report. I checked out in a twin-engine trainer this A.M. and flew a practice mission for ack-ack boys. Although I knew they were not shooting at me, it was hard, when I saw the puffs of flak, not to do evasive action. The boss and I drove out to HQ beach club this afternoon and had a wonderful time.
After supper we had a few drinks and saw “See Here Private Hargrove” on the screen. It was funny as hell. Then, while the Colonel played bridge, the signals kids had an impromptu birthday party for me, consisting mostly of “gin Benevento and juice.” The name signifies the factory in which gasoline is converted to gin. This is the best of several factories, locations of which I can not mention. How about a portrait (3 in x 5 in please) from waist up with low neck, high pompadour, and smile for my birthday present? Sweater, tight, preferred!!!!
Your hair in recent pictures is gorgeous. I live only for the day I can mess it up and tell you the accumulated compliments of years overseas worship. I shall carry a vivid hate of Nazism to my grave—a hate for each minute I have been away from you.
I love you more each day. Your own, Cy.