 Crew photo from Ang's last mission of 1944. During this last part of December 1944, Ang flies five missions and writes five letters. He manages to pass on many newsy tidbits including a hope to attend Mass at St Peters in Rome; descriptions of his Christmas activities -- including meals consumed and liquor obtained; and of course mail recieved. He mentions that he received his books from the University; lost and found his wallet; and reports receipt of about 15 Christmas packages. Betty must have enquired, becasue he tries to explain his current status and why he's not yet a captain. Betty continued her usual keep-busy schedule of work, shopping, volunteering and visiting friends and relatives. She finally recieved a package from Capri on the 27th! I've shared some information about the 340th BG Christmas party provided for some Corsican children. Ang mentions it briefly, but it was also discussed in the group and squadron diaries. In 2013, I was delighted to see a Tweet from the National Archives with a link to a film about the party. I've included that link below. In the 486 BS diary for December 24, it was said, "Stand-down again – It seems as though we were not sent here to fly." Finally, after Christmas, the weather cleared enough for missions and Ang's 486th Bomb Squadron flew every day through the 31st. Finally, I want to note Ang's 12/27 letter in which he reports to Betty, "By the way, in case you don't know, Tom just told me that his brother has been reported missing in action somewhere in France. Damn the war!" Thus begins my father's side of the Cahill family tragedy. The story is told in my friend Michelle Cahill's book "Dear Mom: A Family Finds Its Past in World War II Letters Home." Michelle is Tom Cahill's niece. I'll have a post devoted to this story later. *************** In his December 27th letter, Ang mentions a Christmas party for some Corsican children. They collected candy from their own "provisions" and a group of them went up to Cervione to deliver it. The 340th BG mentions the collection on the 23rd. "A very large collection of candy, garnered from the PX rations of officers and enlisted men in voluntary contributions, is being built up in the public relations office. Two large G.I. equipment cases in the office are loaded down with 25 cubic feet of hard candy, peanut bars, chocolate bars, and packages of gum. The kiddies of the little town of Cervione will go wild when they get all that.' On the 24th, the diary reported: "Captain William Anderson of the 489th, who lately has been working with the public relations officer, took his Speed Graphic camera, an ambulance loaded with 250 pounds of assorted candies and sweets, and a few enlisted men carolers up to Cervione for the children's Christmas party this afternoon. It was supposed to have been a happy success." And again on the 25th: "The Cervione Christmas party went over with a bang, the local mayor making a speech of thanks and the kids apparently dazed at being given so much candy after being candy-starved for about four years. About 450 children were served, and about 2500 candy bars or small boxes of candy were distributed." On December 18, 2013, The National Archives posted a video and story on one of their blogs, which I happened to see on Twitter. I didn't see Ang in the video and so, while he may have been there, I think he's using the "Royal We" in his letter. Here's the link to the Archives blog with the video. : https://unwritten-record.blogs.archives.gov/2013/12/18/corsican-kids-christmas-party-with-the-57th-bomb-wing-1944/ *************** Friday, December 22. Very nasty day—rainy. Ugh! No work tomorrow. Marian drove me home & we had a drink. No mail today. December 23. Up early—and to store in A.M. Cleaned up and down to Officers Wives Club. Had a real nice time. Bed 12:00 [Letter. Postmark 12-28-44.] 12/23/44 Corsica Hi Darling: I think I’ll be going to mass at St. Peters tomorrow night—so if you don’t hear from me for a couple of days—you’ll know where I am. Our Christmas booze came in today—and it amounts to practically a quart a man of Seagrams V.O. Man, what a party this should be—wow! I doubt if there will be a man in the squadron fit for flying for quite some time to come. We didn’t get any mail today either—its been some time now. I’d better get a bushel basket full when it does come in. I was pretty busy today—decorating the walls of the shack. You should see my pin-ups—wow! It looks like a college boys dream room now—ha! Oh well, I have to do something to pass the time. Don’t worry though, hon—I only have two pictures of Lana, and at least a dozen of you—ha! Have you heard from Bud lately—its been some time since I have. I suppose it’s the mail mess. I love you darling—Love, Ang December 24. To 12:30 Mass. Wrote a letter to Eve[Evelyn Bylund? Arne Bylund's wive?] Just did odds and ends all day. Sat around in evening but no one showed up. December 25. To 9:00 Mass. Then breakfast and then presents. Lots of lovely things! Schrickers over to dinner—lovely dinner. Bed 10:30. [Letter. Postmark 12-28-44.] 12/25/44 Corsica Merry Christmas, honey: I must say I don’t feel very merry—but what else can I say. Oh me, what a head I’ve got on my shoulders—what a Christmas eve last night was—wow! As I told you, we got plenty of whiskey for the celebrations. As far as celebrations go, this one took the cake. What a drunken squadron this was. As I’ve said before, what a head I’ve got. To top everything off, I lost my wallet somewhere. Thank God, I only had a couple of dollars in cash in it. I had $150.00 in money orders made out to myself in it. If someone doesn’t return it by tomorrow, I’ll report the loss to the post office. It’s a lucky thing that the post-office is the only place to cash a money order—that way I can stop anybody from cashing it. I don’t know why I’m getting all excited—it’ll probably be turned in—or maybe its already turned in at group or one of the other squadrons—I hope. Oh me, I don’t know why I ever take a drink—I sure make a mess of things when I do. As you’ve probably guessed, I did not get to Rome for midnight mass. The reason is a military secret—I guess. Oh well. I got several packages yesterday. One was some candy from the Greek Star Mothers (whatever that is). How do you like that? I also got a bridge set from the Falls. And then I got my books from Illinois. Now I can really get started. Also received your package with the notebooks, typing paper etc. Thanks darling! Amos and Andy are on now—they certainly have improved their program, haven’t they! I love you sweets—Love, Ang  Flight log. Mission #53. December 26, 1944 December 26. Worked hard today but no heart in it. No mail. Out to B.J. Miller’s[?] in evening—very lovely time. Bed 1:30. Ugh. Form 5. -26, flight as navigator, B-25J, 3:20h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION #53.] 53. 12/26 Roveretto Gun Positions Chaff & Phos. Light & Inaccurate -- Tom really go the damn guns. J.M. Moyer T.D. Cahill [According to the 486th BS diary, 15 planes went on this mission. There are two pages for the crew list for this mission. Ang and his friend Tom were both on 6H. Here's a link with mssion information: http://57thbombwing.com/340th_History/487th_History/missions/122644_Rovereto.htm]  Flight log. Mission #54. December 27, 1944. December 27. Dark & cloudy day. Package from Capri arrived. Also Adams’ Xmas present. Peg & I to movies. Bed 12:30. Form 5. -27, ____ flight as navigator, B-25J, 4:35h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 54.] 54. 12/27/44. Borovinca R.R. Viaduct East No flak. Knocked out seven spans of viaduct. Led group. Maj. G.B. Thabault. Lt. Col J.W. Ruebel, R.G. Woolcott [I believe Ang's notes in pencil were added later, when he was revieing his records. He noted that this mission was into Yogoslavia. This Unit Citation "order" is dated December 27th, but is for the mission in September. This 6th OLC order can be viewed under the "Official Documents" tab.]  Photo from the 340th BG Diary on the 57th BW web site: "General Knapp Awarding Decorations Photo: 57th Bomb Wing Archive" The diary reported "A special medal- awarding formation was held today for combat crew members who are awaiting orders to go home after finishing their missions. General Knapp made the presentations, as usual." [Letter. Postmark 12-28-44.] 12/27/44 Corsica Hello Darling: I certainly have been getting boco packages from Christmas. Yesterday I got one from you—cigars etc—and two from the folks—a pipe-eats-film-candy etc. Today I got one from you (food) and one from Kay--a fruitcake. I guess I'll have to start on my "thank-you" notes tonight. Boy, altogether, I got about 15 Christmas packages. You certainly took advantage of the post office on the Christmas package deal. Thanks darling---I love you for it---and for many, many other things too of course! I'm glad you got over to see the Cahills and had such a nice time. The way Tom talked, I figured that you'd enjoy his people. By the way, in case you don't know, Tom just told me that his brother has been reported missing in action somewhere in France. Damn the war! I'm sorry I've stirred up all this fuss about that cablegram. But really, I didn't know that it was going to cause what amounts to practically an international incident. Sorry, Darling. I guess I do neglect you in the way of information, but it really is pretty hard to know what one can say or not say. It seems that you are even more in the dark than I thought you were. Sorry! Here's the poop. My present status is Navigator---darn it! That means that I have no particular crew of my own. I just fly with the lead crew. The reason it is taking me so long to finish, is that the navigators rotate on the missions and so we don't fly as often as the wing men do. As I've said before, being in the "lead" means nothing to us---except an extra 3-4 months overseas. Oh well, at least are "wheels” and get to ride a jeep to briefings, while the others ride a truck--ha! Does that sound like sarcasm? Of course once in awhile one of the real "wheels" goes home or something and one of the "leads" slips into the vacancy and becomes a Capt., but there isn't much chance--so, as I've said (or did I), I love to ride jeeps. I'm not bitter, darling, it just gets me mad sometimes that I always slide into deals like that. If it was the wing men that had to rotate their missions, sure as hell, I'd be on the wing. Oh well. George Henthorn, the fellow I moved in with, is finished now. He ought to be seeing you one of these months. Did I give you his wife's address--no? Buff (Elizabeth) Henthorn 4441 Clarissa Ave Normandy 22895 They have a little daughter and they live with his mother. I thought I sent you Wheeler's address. He's away for a week or so, but I'll send his wife's address as soon as he comes back. We had a very nice Christmas---big meal etc. There wasn't too much drinking in the Squadron---too many hangovers from the night before. We took some candy and stuff up in the hills to some French children---made us feel like Santa Claus. I love you darling—Love, Ang  Flight log. Mission #55. December 28, 1944. December 28. Overslept this A.M. & was it a mad dash. Awfully busy today—wrote cards in evening & laundry. Bed 11:30. Form 5. -28, flight as navigator, B-25J, 3:55h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION #55.] 55 12/28 Borovinca, Yugo. R.R. Viaduct, East. No flak. Knocked out rest of spans. Led group. Capt. J.M. Moyer, Dozier, T.D. Cahill] [A December 28 clipping, below, was in Ang's scrapbook.]  From Ang's scrapbook. An AP story on December 28, 1944 that mentions work of Mitchell Medium Bombers. Pasted on page with photo labelled "56." December 29. Worked like dog today. Tried to do some shopping for Donny—but no luck. Marian drove me home. Bed late. [Letter. Postmark 1/2/45.] 12/29/44 Corsica Hi Darling: Before I forget (I did in the last letter) my wallet was returned to me. Everything was in it. It certainly is nice to have some honest men around you. All I’ve got to say for myself is that it’s a darn good thing my head is connected to the rest of my body. Boy what a jerk I am. In your last couple of letters, you seem to hint that perhaps I’m not writing as often as I should. I’ll admit that I have been rather slack lately—but it’s not that bad. I usually get at least four letters a week off to you—and that’s not too bad. Maybe some of them have been getting stuck in the Christmas rush. Charley said that he had written to you—I guess a thank you for the Christmas card. He’s well on the road to recovery now. Arne got his D.F.C. the other day—he should be leaving soon. It got here sooner than I expected—I certainly am happy for him. I’ve got 55 missions now—so you can start expecting me any month. My birthday is still a good guess—I hope. The chances are that I’ll have the same deal as Arne on No. of missions—darn it, why do I look so healthy. By the way, I’ve got a nice mustache on my upper lip now—and it’s only two weeks old. I’m not going to shave it off until I get home—in fact I’m not even going to trim it. I just wanted to warn you, so you can be ready for the shock of a couple of pounds of hair curled around my face. Really, in spite of the fact that I don’t like mustaches, I am proud of this one. Don’t worry darling, I promise to shave it off as soon as I get home. Well, New Years Eve is two nights off. I wish—no I don’t either. I’m perfectly happy to spend it on Corsica—ha, ha, ha! I love you sweets—Love, Ang  Flight log. Mission #56. December 30, 1944. The orders for the DFC (see the Awards tab) are dated December 30, 1944. The mission was in November. December 30. Didn’t have to work today. Had a letter from Benny—maybe he’ll be in tomorrow. Jr. down for a few days. To movies after U.S.O. Late. Form 5. -30, flight as navigator, B-25J, 4:00h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION #56.] 56 12/30 Calliano RR Bridge #2 Heavy, Int. & Accurate. Seven ships holed. Hit bridge. Led group Capt. Dozier, J.D. Smith, F.J. Gowiski  From Ang's scrapbook. "56" written on back.  Flight log. Mission #57. December 31, 1944. December 31. To 10:30 Mass Benney[?] got in about 2:00. Sure good to see him—he stayed for dinner. Feel bad now though. Wrote letters. Form 5. -31, flight as navigator, B-25J, 4:00h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION #57.] 57 12/31 Calliano Gun Positions Chaff & Phos Heavy, intense, & accurate. Dave did a good job on guns---none of the following ships were holed R.W. Middlekauff G.P. Davis [G.P. Davis is listed as bombardier on the crew sheet, so perhaps "Dave" is "Davis."]  From Ang's scrapbook. "57" written on back. [Letter. Postmark 1-2-45.] 12/31/44 Corsica Hello Darling: Happy New Year—and I really mean it. What I mean is that I hope it will be a happy new year for both of us—and I’ve also got a hunch that it will be a happy one. I can actually see the end of my missions coming—and I can even see myself back in the states and with you one of these days. Don’t mind me, hon—I just feel pretty darn good tonight—and it isn’t because I’m drunk—I haven’t had a drink yet. I’ve got a hunch I’m really going to put one on though—that is if I’m not flying in the morning. I got three more packages yesterday from the folks and two from you-- -- “T” shirts, nuts, magazines, etc. You sure are good to me. I know this is short but you’ll have to excuse me—the boys are calling—“Yoohoo, Ange, come one over to the club you _____.” You know how it is when “duty” calls. Goodnight darling—and Happy New Year-- I love you sweetheart—Love, Ang  From Ang Adams' photo collection, labeled "57" on back of photo. Also: Left to Right R. Middlekauf, G.P. Davis, Slocum, R.C. Adams. Bottom Row Shorty, John, Sour-puss Navigator (that would be Ang Adams.) The crew sheet lists Middlekauf, Adams, Adams, Davis, Slocum, Coupland, Garvin. Ang's mustache is visible.
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 George Henthorn and Ang, undated photo. I know Henthorn left Corsica in early January and there was an awards ceremony on December 27th, so perhaps that is the date of the photo. The long, slow, middle of December. More lousy weather for the 340th Bomb Group. Ang only flies one mission but manages to send letters nearly every day. While they are pretty newsy about other people, he doesn't talk much about anything he is doing. One bit of news is that his roommate, Charley Vail, is in the hospital with a broken leg, and Ang has moved to another "shack" further down in the valley. He says it's warmer there. His new roommate is George Henthorn. Betty is spending her time working and Christmas shopping. Monday, December 11. Marian got back—hurrah! Didn’t work very hard today. Shopped & got babies [gifts] out of way. Bed by 11:00 December 12. Awfully warm—ugh—the middle of December. Met Mrs L-. Mr. S. for dinner. Peg & I to movies. 12:00 [Letter. Postmark 12-13] 12-12-44 Corsica Hi Hon: Today is one of those days where a person stays inside—gnashes his teeth—plays with his lips—slams his fist against the wall—and then lays back on his sack and thinks of home the little woman. That’s just what I’ve been doing all morning—and now I’m really in sad shape. Boy, do I love you—wow! It’s a good thing you can’t see me now, because I’m sure my ears are long and pointed and my fangs are drooling. Ahwoooo (in case you don’t recognize it, that’s a wolfs call—a lonely and lovesick wolf at that). I’m not really that bad off—I don’t think. However it’s a good example of what the power of suggestion can do to a person. I guess I’d better go out in a little while and organize a pinochle game—or something. I sent you a copy of the group paper yesterday—I thought you might like to see one of them. I sure got a kick out of the cartoon on the front page. Cute, eh what? I got another package from you yesterday—the one with the cigars in it. Gee whiz, darling—you certainly do take care of your hubby—imagine, two-bit cigars. I’ve hidden them very carefully—or else the wolves would have been after me in no time at all. Such cigars are only for me on special occasions and for visitors above the rank of colonel—ha! That special issue of “Life” was really something—about the best I’ve ever seen. Do you remember the picture near the back of the Private and all the movie stars. The one where he is in the background and the eight girls are laying on the grass with all the behinds sticking up and towards the camera. One of the boys took one look and moaned “Look at this—a million dollars worth of behinds—and I can’t even get two bucks worth.” Cute—huh? The section on what they are going to do for the service man was also interesting. Boy, according to Life, we’ll never have to work again! What a life. I love you darling—Love, Ang [Note: I'm pretty sure the Life Magazine issue Ang mentions is September 25, 1944. I think it's page 114 at this link. https://books.google.com/books?id=XU8EAAAAMBAJ&lpg=PP1&dq=life%20magazine%2C%20sep%2025%2C%201944&pg=PA114#v=onepage&q&f=true] December 13. Mr L. out of office today—warm again. Shopped, then with girls at Biltmore—dinner & a show. Bed 12:30. December 14. Worked hard today. Did some shopping at noon. Wrapped packages & did laundry. Bathed & to bed 10:30. [Letter. Postmark 12-15-44.] 12-14-44 Corsica Hi Darling: I just got your letter of the 4th (Dec)—you sure do sound pooped. I’m all for your keeping busy—but I hope you’re not overdoing it. I realize that you know what you are doing, but there is no sense in killing yourself. Thanks for the new calendar—it should help me considerably in keeping track of dates. Also thanks for Jen’s letter. When she does write, she writes a clever letter, doesn’t she? I sure get a kick out of some of her expressions. I told you that Arne had been put back on flying, didn’t I? He’s all finished now though—and he’s just sweating out his D.F.C. before his orders can go in. Its too bad he has to waste so much time just sitting around here doing nothing. Thank goodness, my D.F.C. is already in—and I should have it in a couple of weeks. When I do finish, my orders will go in immediately and I’ll be able to leave two weeks after that. Poor Arne will probably be here for 1 ½ to 2 months yet. It certainly is a shame. If I was in his position, I know what I’d tell them to do with the D.F.C. Its alright to be a hero—but its hardly worth an extra two months over here. Oh well, such is war. Yes, I have heard from Bud. I know approximately where he is, and I’m going hunting for him someday. Maybe I’ll try it at Christmas—it would be nice to be together. You should get this about that time so Merry Christmas sweetheart. I guess you know how I feel about the holidays—so I’m not going to say anything about it. I’ve been thinking of the holidays pretty regularly—and it doesn’t make me happy. I don’t know why I’ve brought up the subject, I’ve ruined my whole day now. I certainly am a sentimental little baby. I love you sweets—Love, Ang  December 15. Have a whole day off for shopping—1/2 today. Bot coat for Donny. Took him home—napped in P.M. To bed early. Form 5. -15, flight as navigator, B-25J, 2:50h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION #52] 52 12/15 Voghera RR Bridge No flak 100% Bridge Destroyed Led group. Maj. G.B. Thabault. Dozier. Wollcott  From Ang's scrapbook. "52" written on back. Here's a link to mission report on the 57thBW web site. http://57thbombwing.com/340th_History/487th_History/missions/121544_Voghera.htm December 16. Didn’t get much work done this A.M. Did some shopping—dashed home to U.S.O Wives Club—then duty. Bed 10:30. [Letter. Postmark 12-20-44.] 12-16-44 Corsica Hi Hon: Well, I do have a small dab of news for you today—Vail has a busted leg—and I’ve moved from the shack. That’s a hell of an association of ideas—but they are connected. What I mean is, it gets pretty darn cold way up there on the windy hill—and I’ve often had a desire and several offers to move in one of the shacks in the valley where the wind doesn’t get at them so much. However, I never took up any of the offers because I thought Charley’s feeling might be hurt if I moved out. Well, as I’ve said, Charley busted his leg—and now his home is in the hospital—and mine is in the “valley.” Charley sure does have a bunch of rotten luck—he’s almost as bad as Bud—maybe that’s why I took up with him. Oh well! I now live with a fellow named George Henthorn—another L.A. boy. He (George) should be leaving for home one of these days—and will stop in to see you. I’ve flown a lot of missions with him, so you ought to get plenty of poop from him. I got six of your letters yesterday—Nov 20 to 27. I’m glad you are not trying to satisfy all the kids of our acquaintance with Christmas presents. I can imagine what a problem it is for you—and its almost worth being overseas just to escape all that. I’m sorry this is so short darling—I love you very much—Love, Ang December 17. To 10:30 Mass. Wrapped packages in P.M.—and did a bit of sewing. Wrote letters & to bed by 11:00. December 18. Didn’t have to work very hard. Shopped at noon. Finally had letter from Ang. To bed by 11:30 [Letter. Postmark 12-22-44.] 12/18/44 Corsica Hello Darling: Who in the hell, may I ask, is this “Marion” who sent me two suckers for a Christmas present. What - -- - oops, I just remembered—the girl that works in your office is named Marion—isn’t she? Give her my thanks—or should I say Henthorns (my shack-mates) thanks—he enjoyed both of them immensely. Charley is in good shape—it was just a simple break—nothing very serious. Besides, he has a cute nurse and he can use a rest. You should see the officers mess now—we really have it decked out for Christmas. The “cutest” print curtains border the windows—boy, are they hot stuff. The nudes painted all over the walls have grass skirts glued to their lower extremities—I guess that’s a concession to the chaplain and the religious spirit of the holidays. The trees that Christmas trees are made of grow wild all over the island—and so we have dozens of wreaths. Your wreath and sign hang in the middle of mess hall. All in all—in looks pretty snappy—I’m rather proud of our labors. Yes, I did receive the package with the two rolls of film—thanks, hon. I haven’t received Uncle Georges box yet, but it ought to get here one of these days. I’m sure glad you’ve been able to get as much as you have for me. I also got the little “dolly” you sent me in the letter. Didn’t I feel foolish—sitting in the mess hall, a little doll dangling from my fingers, and a very foolish expression on my face. Oh well! I got a “V” mail from Gram. Har[rington]—I nearly strained my eyes trying to read the small print before I remembered the magnifying glass you sent me. I, too, noticed how much she favors Donny. She seems to be crazy about him. She didn’t say much—mentioned Frankie, John, etc. I can’t get over the difference the radio makes around here. Its almost a pleasure to lay around now. Even Gildersleeve (he’s on now) sounds good. I love you darling—Love, Ang By the way, my orders for the Air medal and five clusters came in—I am now officially a hero—ha! [You can read about and listen to episodes of the radio show Ang mentions here: http://www.greatgildersleeve.com]  Ang, on the right, at the bar. The other two photos from this series of publicity photos are in the posts from August 15-24 and from September 14-22. See below for Tom Cahill's description of these photos. "The enclosed pictures were taken before Christmas and the scene is our squadron officer’s mess. I am only in one of them, and am right behind that pipe and under that mess of hair. The wall decorations were all done by Willy, and as you may note, tinsel skirts have been added to a couple of the girls. That was simpler than trying to paint goose pimples, we found. Comrade Adams appears in all three pictures. He is playing cards in two of them (Hearts I think was the game) and in the third picture he is leaning against the wall near the bar in the make-believe downing a snort. I say “make-believe” because I am sure those bottles were empty at the time—otherwise there would have been a larger group in the pictures. In the bar picture also is Garnett Carroll being served by Fisher who is behind the bar. Over the fireplace is our squadron insignia. The fellow that I am playing cards with (Double Solitaire) is Jim Clarke of Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. That is Davis nearest him at the next table though hardly clear enough to identify him. The slot machine in the background was purchased out of the mess fund for an ungodly sum, and then it was discovered that nowhere in this theater were there coins to fit it. And there it sits." [From "Dear Mom" by Michelle Cahill, niece of Tom Cahill.] December 19. Took off at noon today—Did some shopping—then home. Wrapped packages. Home all evening. Bed 10:45
December 20. Warmish today—sure not very Christmasy. Shopped after work—bot black bag. Wrote letters in evening. 11:00 [Letter. Postmark 12-22-44.] 12/20/44 Corsica Hi Hon: Gee—its only five days to Christmas now—the holidays are practically upon us. I don’t suppose the holidays will be too much for us—but just the idea kind of gets one. The best Christmas present we can get is to fly a mission on Christmas—that means one more towards getting home. I’m afraid I’m a little moody today. The closeness of the holidays have kind of knocked my usual cheerful disposition all to hell. As I’ve told you before, I’m usually pretty contented over here—but on holidays or on days that have a special significance to us- - - well! Gee, listen to me moan—you’d think I had the cares of the world on my shoulders. I’m sorry darling, I just don’t feel in a very happy mood today. You know how it is once in awhile. Charley is in fine shape—and getting better all the time. Arne is still waiting. Darn it hon, I just haven’t got it in me to write a letter today. Maybe I’ll add to it tonight. I love you sweets—Love, Ang December 21. No diary entry. [Letter. Postmark 12-23-44.] 12/21/44 Corsica Hi Hon: I suppose you’ve got yesterdays letter and are worried sick about me by now. It sure was a pukey letter, wasn’t it? Just ignore it, sweets—it was just one of those days when a person feels way, way down in the dumps. All day long the radio blared about the great German offensive and about the Allies retreating—and it sounded like the damn war would last forever. That, and Christmas being so near really got me down. However this morning I bounced out of the right side of the bed—and am my usual optimistic self. That’s a long way of telling you I fell pretty good today. It doesn’t look like I’m going to get my trip to Rome for the Holidays—however I’m still trying—and you never can tell. I sure would like to be there—oh well! We haven’t been getting much mail lately—just Christmas boxes. I guess the post office is clogged with the presents, and the boys are probably tearing their hair out trying to straighten out the mess. The radio just announced that the Pope is going to celebrate midnight mass on Christmas eve—and its going to be broadcast. Thats what I’d like to see at St. Peters. Oh well! Its too bad that John can’t come to see you since he is on the west coast. I certainly hope that Frankie gets home by Christmas. Is he coming home on rotations or just a leave—or don’t you know? I sure hope he’s home for good—he certainly has done his part for this war. Say, hon, take it easy on those magazine sections, will you? I’d rather get some magazines such as Story Mercury etc. don’t get a subscription for me—just send me some when you get a chance. We saw a U.S.O. show the other night that was pretty good—three men and three girls. The men danced, cracked jokes, sang and other things—the girls just wiggled. Boy, the girls were sure good—ha! I guess that’s all a show needs over here—a pretty girl that looks, acts, and speaks American. The American girl is sure going to have a cinch with the G.I. back from overseas. She’s been raised so high in comparison to foreign women that it isn’t even funny. Ah well! I love you darling—Love, Ang  FLAK. Volume I, No 11. December 11, 1944. Page 1.  FLAK. Volume I, No 11. December 11, 1944. Page 2  FLAK. Volume I, No 11. December 11, 1944. Page 3.  FLAK. Volume I, No 11. December 11, 1944. Page 4.  FLAK. Volume I, No 11. December 11, 1944. Page 5.  FLAK. Volume I, No 11. December 11, 1944. Page 6.  Envelope and Christmas card Ang sent to Betty. See below for the inside of card. Ang gets two missions in during this first part of December. He doesn't mention stand downs, but the 340th BG history tells us the weather was still causing stand downs. This explains (again) his Form 5 that lists more flights than his personal log book. Sometimes they would leave Corsica, only to return because of bad weather at target. Other times they flew practice or training flights. Ang & Betty's activities remain the same as always: Betty working, attending meetings, helping at USO; and Ang writing letters and attending a USO show in between flying and waiting for mail. They are both busy getting Christmas cards sent out and with waiting for mail to arrive. Ang is still dreaming of a trip to Greece, or maybe to Rome for Christmas. Betty mentions work on a photo album -- sure wish I knew what happened to it! Ang talks about taxes and we see his earnings should come to $3,023.42. Speaking of money, he has a new "post-war plan" that will take a lot of money so he claims he'll take up bridge instead of poker in order to save money. I'm guessing Betty laughed at that one - he never gave up poker! But he reassures Betty that his plan is not a restaurant. Reminds me I need to do a post about his Pre-War business venture - a restaurant!  Flight log. Mission #50. December 1, 1944. Friday, December 1. Sure am getting tired. Worked hard all day as usual. To meeting for Inf. Center in evening. Bed 12:45. Form 5. -1, flight as navigator, B-25J, 3:00h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION #50.] 50. 12/1 Villalvernia RR Bridge No flak Bridge down [Later mission reports indicate that the bridge was not destroyed, but that the bombs did damage the nearby town, killing many people.] Led group. Moyer. Lt.Col. J.W. Ruebel  December 2. Worked until about 12:45. Dashed home and out to Servicemen’s Wives—then Hostess work. Looked through Tribs—bed 12:00 December 3. To 9:00 Mass. Did Xmas cards. To movie—brought dinner in. Wrote letters in evening. Washed head. Bed 11:30. Form 5. -3, flight as navigator, B-25J, 3:00h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 51.] 51 12/3 Mantoua East RR Bridge. No flak. Bridge down. Led group. Thabault. Woolcott [See photo from Ang's scrapbook, below. The 340th BG and 486th BS diaries aren't quite as clear as to whether the bridge was "down.". http://57thbombwing.com/340th_History/487th_History/missions/120344_Mantua.htm]  From Ang's scrapbook. "51" written on back.  Ang's 12-3-44 letter and envelope showing stamp "Passed by Examiner" and mark on left from the taped used to re-close the envelope. [Letter. [Postmark 12-4, envelope stamped “Passed by Examiner." Also re-closed with tape “Opened by Army Examiner.] 12/3/44 Corsica Hi Hon: I just got the news that one of the fellows who went home called up my folks and promised to go over and see them. I certainly am glad that he was nice enough to do it—I’m certain it made Mom very happy—just like a Christmas present. However, if I know Dad, I kind of feel sorry for him (Anderson, the fellow I’m talking about). Dad will probably set up a banquet in his honor and my relatives will pester him to death. Oh well! I went to see a U.S.O. show last night—and it really was very good. It was a colored unit and the band was kind of brassy—but I certainly did enjoy it a lot. I must losing my taste, because I sure got a bang out of some of their old & corny jokes. We bought ourselves a radio yesterday—and I won’t tell you the price because you’ll faint. Its really a beauty—but it takes up about half of the shack—it sure is big. Its really worth the money (wouldn’t you like to know) though—because it sure is a pleasure to be able to listen to programs such as Hope, Benny, Axis Sal—etc. It makes the time go a little easier. When I get ready to leave here and sell it to one of the fellows—then I’ll tell you what I paid for it. I’m not cashing any checks though—and I’ve still got enough for the Athens trip. O.K., O.K.—so its mean—so I’ll tell you—we paid 250.00 for it 125.00 apiece—so there. I love you darling—Love, Ang December 4. Another busy day. Walked home from the office. Had a lovely steak dinner—Mr. S. up. Donny awfully cross. Bed 11:15. December 5. Had a dentist appt today—ugh. Didn’t work quite so hard today. Tom Bridge lesson with Martha—USO. 12:30 Form 5. -5, flight as navigator, B-25J, 2:00h [Standown from 5th to 8th of December per the 486th squadron diary.] December 6. Sure will be glad when Marian’s back—am sure getting tired. Wrapped 8oz for Ang. To bed 11:00. [With thanks to the Smithsonian National Postal Museum; here's a link to the June 2, 1944 Postal Bulletin explaining Christmas Mail for Overseas. Ang mentions the Christmas package deal in his 12/27/44 letter. http://www.uspostalbulletins.com/PDF/Vol65_Issue18724_19440602.pdf#search=%22%22] [Letter, Postmark 12-5-44. A couple misdated letters here, which Ang finally notices in his 12/9 letter.] 12/6/44 Corsica Hi Hon: I guess I’m getting to be a bad boy—its been three days since I wrote last. I don’t think that I’m getting into a rut—and I promise not to let it happen too often—its just that I haven’t been getting any mail lately and its so hard to find something to write about. I received yours of the 17th & 25th today though—so I’ll try to make up the missing letters in this one. First off—I’ll clear up a few old matters that you’ve been after me for. Yes, you are doing the right thing about the taxes—just what I wanted you to do. I’ve been thinking about it, and I’ve decided that we’d better pay it—and I also figured out how much I’ve made. My total earnings this year—including everything that is taxable (Base—flight & overseas pay) comes to $3,023.42. When you make out the joint return remember to add your pay to mine & then subtract the family allowance 1,200.00 & the military allowance 1,500.00—then the balance is what is taxed. I figure the balance will be about $1,000.00 and the tax in no case should amount over $150-$200. If you get the blank early just send it to me with the total of your earnings—reductions etc & I’ll take care of it. If you don’t—just make it out yourself & send it in. However if your figures turn out to be over $200 in taxes—just don’t send anything in & I’ll take care of it when I come home. Its kind of early for all this—but as I said, I’ve been thinking about it & I might as well give you all the poop on it. Now to get to your letters. Yes, I get plenty of cigarettes—all I need. I’ll write & try to find out Connelley’s address one of these days. One rule (according to the officers guide) that an officers wife must learn—is that she must never write, phone or otherwise pester any army superior or and dept. I guess that lets you know where you stand—ha! You are forgiven for not writing on the 23rd—what else can I do with the record I have for writing. A fine howdoyado—playing around with a couple of sailors—ha? I’m glad you invited them out, though darling. I know how I’ve felt when I’ve been away from home on a holiday, and its not a very nice feeling. I know I’d give a lot to be invited to a decent home & dinner on a day like that—and what I wouldn’t give to be able to accept an invitation to your home—wow! Oh well! Say, I should say your family is getting famous—nationwide papers—radio—I guess pretty soon I’ll be known as Lt. Angelo Russell—ha. I love you darling—Love, Ang December 7. Mr. Latimer out today--& I really accomplished a lot. Home alone all evening. Wrote letters. Bed 11:00 Form 5. -7, flight as navigator, B-25J, 2:00h [Standown from 5th to 8th of December per the 486th squadron diary.]  Ang's Christmas card to Betty. Postmark 12-5-44. “I love you, hon, - and my thoughts are not exactly just friendly - but what can you expect from a P.X. Christmas card - Love, Ang” [Letter. Postmark 12-6-44. Letter misdated.] 12-7-44 Corsica Hi Darling: Well, I’ve finally got all my Christmas cards off—sent off the last today. I just went thru the little book and took them as they came. I hope I didn’t forget anybody—oh well, I tried not to. I also wrote a few letters yesterday—one to your mother thanking her for the bracelet. I guess I should have long ago—but I thought it would be nicer if she got the thank-you note around Christmas. That’s a pretty good reason—at that. I certainly am glad we bought that radio—it certainly helps the day pass. I’m beginning to catch up on the radio programs.again. Its kind of detracting from the letter writing though—Bob Hope is on at the present—so please excuse any lapses. I see where they are having all kinds of trouble over in Athens—so I guess that will contribute to another delay. Oh well, one of these days. I’ll get over there before I leave—even if I have to swim over. In regards to coming home—I now have 51 missions. I can’t tell you how many I have to fly—but I am within screaming distance of the last one. One of the boys ought to be in to see you in a couple of weeks—you can get the poop from them. There are rumors that there are bags & bags of mail somewhere around. I sure hope so—about a dozen letters & a couple of packages sure would do miracles for me. Of course a dozen letters & a couple of packages would be a miracle! I love you darling—Love, Ang  12-9-44 letter from Ang showing stamp and tape from Army Examiner. [Letter. Postmark 12-12, “Passed by Army Examiner, re-taped with examiner’s tape]
12-9-44 Corsica Hi Hon: In case there has been any confusion on your side about the dates on my letters--I want you to know there has been plenty of confusion on this side. I have been a day or two ahead of the calendar all the way---I'm OK now though---I think today is the ninth. I got six letters today—four from you—one from Gale and one (a Christmas card) from Pat Reardon—imagine? Gale certainly does write a nice letter. She wanted to know if I remembered how she used to hop on Gabby when he came through the door---and wanted to know if I could imagine what she would do to him when he came back from overseas. "If he thinks he's having a busy time now, just wait until he gets home." Ha , I can well imagine. I can just see her as he walks in the door--wow! The rest of the letter was bragging about the baby, remembering a few old scenes. She sure is a sweet kid, isn't she. She seems (according to the letter) to take Gabby's absence a lot better than I thought she would. There didn't seem to be any questions in your letters (for once)—so I can't answer any. I must say I'm very proud of you darling--the way you have taken my overseas tour I mean. Its been rather easy for me to stay fairly happy over here and I think your wonderful attitude has been the main reason for it. What I mean is that we fellows over here have troubles of our own--and if we had to worry about the folks (especially wives) at home---it would be rather rough. The way you have tried to keep yourself busy and fairly happy makes me love you like nobodies business. If you were one of these clinging wives, and bitched and moaned that you were dying for want of me all the time---I don't know what I'd do. I think I'd go nuts over here. Keep up the good work, sweets. Now don't get me wrong--a letter from you once in a while telling me how much you miss me--and how tears come to your eyes when you look at my picture, etc etc is good for my morale. After all, ones ego must get a boost once in a while. I'll be damned if I know what brought all that on except one of your letters (especially) made me realize what a really wonderful wife I have. Just keep on the way you've been going dearest. You're perfect. I just can't get over the radio we bought. It's a godsend. Frank Munn is on now and even he sounds good to me. As far as getting rid of the money so we won't have it to worry about---nothing doing. I think I've at last decided what we are going to do after the war---and it's going to take a lot money. I think I'm going to have to talk you into it, so I'm not going to say a word until I can use my personal influence on you. It's not a restaurant or anything like it. As of here and now--the Adams family goes on a money saving binge---me too. I'm taking up bridge instead of poker. I love you darling—Love, Ang December 10. 12:00 Mass. Packed couple overseas boxes. Pasted in photo album. Did laundry—washed head & bed by 11:30. |
AuthorJoni Adams Sesma, daughter of Angelo and Elizabeth Adams. Ang served on Corsica with the 57th Bomb Wing, 340th Bomb Group, 486th Bomb Squadron. April 1944-April 1945. Archives
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