April 30th '44 'Dearest Mom & All

April 30th '44
Dearest Mom & All,

I enjoyed your letter very much today mom as I always do. By now you've received my letter which will answer most of the questions you ask.

No mom I don't think too much of these two little stripes They mean no K. P. and not walking guard. (Cpts. merely post the sentinels) and $16.00 more a month and that's all. This stuff about the honor of being a Non Commissioned officer in the United States Army doesn't cut any ice. Besides if you 'look cross eyed' around the 16th you're liable to lose your rating and I won't kow-tow to anyone just to keep a rating either.

I have been getting a lot of valuable experience at Camp Butner the past two weeks and I hope I can gain some more. Don't know whether we'll go back there again or not.

We went through the gas chamber at Butner which was quite an experience. It certainly proved that. our masks are all right. We went in three times. First in tear gas to test masks for leakage, then into chlorine with masks on before entering, then we went in and put them  on after getting inside.

I do hope we can stay around for a few months yet too mom, then I can get a furlough in July, but then I'm in the army to do a job and that job won't always be in the states.

I wish you could see the beautiful weather we've been having here. Balmy days that make you want to just lay out on the grass and thrill to the beauty of nature.

I went into town last night and finally got into a store just as the doors were closing. I headed straight for the baby dept. to find something I could send my coming youngster. I didn't know just what Leona had already so I didn't get anything practical. I saw some cute little wool jackets but in July they wouldn't do so well so I got a cute little pink silk jacket and some booties. I hope they give Leona a little sentimental something to think of me when the baby comes. This is when a dad can't tell if he's going to be around when his wife needs him most.
For now loads of love,
Lu

I did have this all sealed & ready to go but I went downstairs in the service club to listen to the High School chorus from Fayetville sing and on the end of the front row was the sweetest little girl that looked so much like Pat that it brought a lump into my throat just watching and listening to her sing. I just had to add a little note to say how much I love and miss my little sis. Stay as sweet as you are honey. there are very few like you.

That goes for all my wonderful family. Once in a while I see someone that faintly resembles one of you and it really makes me homesick to see you again.
All the love in the world
Lu