1944 February 12 “Back on Group Staff”

2/12/44 V-Mail, Italy #75

Martha,

I spent the afternoon with Vulcanos.  I am gradually realizing what big things all the little things in our life really mean to me.  Mamma was fitting a dress on Luliano and the sight of the pins, unhemmed skirt, and the effort to stand in a normal way brought back a wave of memories starting with the time I saw fittings in Washington and [illegible] when I found skirts for you & Maggs.

I had a charcoal sketch made of me today and gave it to Vulcanos.  You have never seen people so appreciative.  I am “un amico de casa” which is a little closer than a relative.  Darn it, it is taking out a lot of the hard steel that war puts into a man.  I damn near bawl when I leave, for Rita, the 14 year old girl, always puts on my scarf, holds my coat, and turns up my collar if it is a cold night.  Guess what other little girl that reminds me of!

Augusta is exactly like Chuck was at 12 and just as spoiled.

I’ll be damned.  OM just phoned and I’m back on the Group Staff!!!  It’s a prelude to a transfer.  I’m apparently headed for a higher staff.  It’s all very confusing.

I love you,  Cy.

1944 February 14 PART VI: TRANSFER TO HQ–THE DOLDRUMS

PART VI: TRANSFER TO HQ–THE DOLDRUMS

2/14/44  V-Mail, Italy #76

Hi Honey:

Sorry I haven’t had time to write in the past couple of days.  I’m all moved over to HQ now, have a desk, and all of the fixings.  My job is nil and I don’t much give a damn, as it looks like a temporary set up of sorts.  I am the Air Inspector, whatever the hell that is.

I have 47 missions now, and it looks like my combat days are about over, other than limited ops.  I don’t know just what the hell to think.

Hell, my stomach aches.  I can’t think of anything interesting to say, as I haven’t done anything, much less anything interesting.

I love you.  Cy.