Ang closed out June with a mission in his new job as navigator. As an example of the many points of mysterious trivia in my research, he mentioned to Betty in his June 25 V-Mail that he completed his 13th mission--not that he's superstitious, of course. But it appears from the records that the June 30 mission was his 13th. This is not the only time he gets dates confused or mis-states or even exaggerates things. I don't read much into these errors, except perhaps that I can imagine how difficult it was to sit down and think of things to say in letters. I know from the 340th and 486th "diaries" that the weather was terrible and there weren't any missions flying in late June, so it seems like he had plenty of time to write, but there's only three V-Mails. In his June 29th letter he told Betty that he and another navigator, Charly Vail, spent some of that time building a new "home" for themselves. Betty's routine in Los Angeles continued with movies and visiting friends. She bought the T-shirts that Ang requested in a letter. She mentions re-reading Ang's letters to cheer up, and she receives the picture of Bud & Ang in Africa. See April 19-30, "Finding Bud in North Africa". Betty closed out June with a new job back at F & G, where she worked in Chicago. ************************ Friday June 23. Cleaned the house & did some ironing. Mr. S. up for dinner. Flo Taylor etc up in evening. Had a nice time. Bed 11:30. [V-Mail, postmark 7-4-44] 6-23-44 Corsica Hi Dear: I got bunches of mail today—eight to be exact. I sure enjoyed that letter from Gail. I’ll bet she’s a scream. The poor baby, when it comes, will be smothered with affection if I know Gail. He probably will be the most spoiled brat in captivity Kay sent me another letter and enclosed three snapshots. Johnny sure does look good—I don’t guess he’ll ever lose that impish look of his. Ann sure is spreading. I think Donny is the image of Peg—he sure is cute! I also got a letter from Jen—same as ever! Example: “Don’t forget to bring me a souvenir from Rome—preferably male.” The jerk. I sure do enjoy her letters though. Say honey—in the navy, is a man promoted from second class to first or to third. I addressed Joes as Sm 1/c [seaman first class]—and now I’m worried. Oh well, I guess he’ll forgive me. I love you, Ang June 24. Wrote some overdue letters. Into Mom’s trunk and looked through my things. A’s letters a swell pick-me-up. My guy! June 25. To late Mass. I got feeling low and in ugly mood. Bot papers & to movies. Had dinner. Got tummyache—just loafed in evening. Bed early. [V-Mail, postmark 7-4-44] 6-25-44 Corsica Hello Honey: I was just starting to write this letter and tell you that I had cashed checks for a hundred dollars—when I got your letter saying the bank account wasn’t so healthy. One of these days I’ll be getting a rest trip to Cairo or Rome—and I would need a few extra bucks. So, when this fellow was getting ready to go back to the states—I cashed the checks with him. I’m sorry if I’ve put you in an uncomfortable position. If you don’t have enough to leave a hundred in the account—please write Dad and tell him to send whats needed. I’ll drop him a note to ease the shock—just in case. By the way, No. 13 is under the belt and I’m happy. Not that I’m superstitious—but! I love you sweets—Love, Ang June 26. Down to F & G, but busy so no soap. Bot some t-shirts for Ang. Home and got box ready. Fixed dinner--wrote letters and radio in evening. June 27. Mailed pkg to Ang. Also got myself a job at F & G. I start tomorrow. Picture from Bud of he and Ang. Mr S for dinner. To show. June 28. Well, first day of job is over. Not so bad. Aunt Kay is coming out on the 14th. Wrote letters in evening. Bed by 10:30. June 29. Busy at my job again—Also got ride home again. Had hair done. ironed and bathed. To bed about 10:30. [V-Mail, postmark 7-10-44] 6-29-44 Corsica Hello Honey: I know I haven’t written for a couple of days—but I did have a rather good reason. We got tired of living in a tent—so we built ourselves a house. Nothing elaborate—but nice and comfortable. Its nine by twelve—and about seven foot high, with a slanting roof. The windows go all the way around—with three foot awnings stretching over them. Its on a hill—and the view and breeze are wonderful. As I said—its not elaborate—but nice and very comfortable. The “We” is myself and the other navigator—Charly Vail. Gosh that breeze feels good! I’m rather proud of myself. Of course Vail was the carpenter in charge—but I had a few ideas myself. I love you darling—Love, Ang June 30. Worked sort of hard today—got paid—Mr. S. for dinner then to movies. Off tomorrow—thank goodness. To bed about 11:30. Form 5. C-30, Combat flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:05h [Crew sheet for June 30, 1944] [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. Mission 13.] 13 6-30 Canneto RR Bridge 8/10 clouds. Hit. Heavy, scant, & inaccurate [TRANSCRIBED FROM SCRAPBOOK. (No photo on this scrapbook page.] #13 Canneto RR Bridge Flak Heavy, scant & inaccurate. Both boxes hit bridge.
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Ang flew four missions and two training flights during these nine days. In between, he wrote letters. He doesn’t mention much in the way of activities other than enjoying PX rations, the casualness of life on Corsica, and a big party when they “flew in a barrel of beer.” Betty wasn’t particularly busy during these days. As usual, she visits with friends and writes letters. She takes the train to San Diego to see her Aunt Kay’s husband Herm who is in the Navy. Apparently he was sick — Ang mentions hearing from Kay that Herm had scarlet fever. She mentions going to “Rowena” who is an in-law of her Uncle John. It sounds like she probably shipped a box from Chicago. Ang received the Air Medal in December, for a mission on June 21. The Air Medal Citation is under the Awards tab. * * * * * * June 14. Didn’t even leave the house today. Wrote letters and read all day. After dinner read more. To bed 10:30. [V-Mail, postmark 6-27-44] 6-14-44 Corsica Hello Honey: Before I forget—I need something else. Please send me about 6 “T” shirts. You know what I mean—the ones with short sleeves on them. Its getting rather warmish around here—and they really are very comfortable. Maybe you’ve been wondering why I haven’t been belly aching too much about being out of the states—well “T” shirts is one of the reasons. Imagine walking down the street in Columbia in a “T” shirt. Another reason is no neckties—enough said? Now if I only had someone (I wonder who) to take care of my laundry and a few other things (?)—oh well, why daydream. No matter how, or from what angle, I look at Arne—he just doesn’t look like the someone. I love you wifey—Love, Ang FORM 5. C-14, Combat flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:15h [Crew sheet for June 14, 1944.] [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 9.] 9. 6-14 Pietrasanta Tunnel Mouth. Two runs on target. One short--one on top. Heavy, scant, inaccurate. 6 - 2FW & 4Me 109's. Spitfires shot down two--- did barrel rolls all way home. [TRANSCRIBED FROM SCRAPBOOK.] Mission #9. Pietrasanta Tunnel Mouth Flak: Heavy, Scant, and Inaccurate. One box hit short. We hit on top. Had to take two runs on the target because of weather. Carroll really plunked them on the tunnel mouth. 2 FW's and 4 ME 109's attacked on the way home. One spit pilot shot down two---and the others were chased away. He flew formation with us after that---and did victory rolls all the way to the base. Who says the Britishers never get excited. Pilot: Henthorn Bombardier: Carroll [See image below.] June 15. Ironed a few things & read all PM. Cleaned up & to Higgins for evening. I took the wrong car -- an hour late. FORM 5. C-15, Combat flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:25h [Crew sheet for June 15, 1944.] [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 10.] 10. 6-15 Castagna R.R. Viaduct 1st box – center 2nd box – miss No flak [TRANSCRIBED FROM SCRAPBOOK. See image above.] # 10 Castagna RR Viaduct Flak: None 1st box--center. Our box---way short. Skinhead Moore drops again. June 16. Downtown and window shopped. Mr. S. up for dinner and to movie. What a bore! Bed about 12:00. [V-Mail, postmark 6-25-44] 6-16-44 Corsica Hi Wifey: What’s cooking? That’s a heck of a way to start a letter—but its better than starting off with “Well,”. We just got our P.X. rations so don’t blame me if I feel stuffed and contented. Really, I think I eat more candy over here than I ever did before. However, don’t let it worry you—I’m not getting any fatter—in fact I think I’m losing a little. I always have when I had to live in camp—and of course the flak helps a little too. They claim that each mission costs a man two pounds—50 missions is 100 LBS. I’ll probably come back a bouncing bruiser of 70 lbs. Pardon me while I tear into another Baby Ruth. I’ve also taken up cigar smoking. We get two a week—and I have to do something with them. I guess I’m just going to the dogs. Love, Ang June 17. Downtown shopping all P.M. Got in touch with Flo Taylor. Had light supper. Wrote some letters. Bed early. FORM 5. T-17, Training flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:05h June 18. Up very early. Got a train to San Diego. What a time--ugh! Herm glad to see us though. Home & bed by 9:30. [V-Mail, postmark 6-29-44.] 6-18-44 Corsica Hi Hon: I got your lock of hair—and thanks a lot. Of course its not enough for me to run my fingers thru—but I guess it will have to do until I get back to the original. I got your letter from Albuquerque—and it sure did bring back a flock of fond memorys. We sure did have a wonderful life there—didn’t we? I guess if I ever get the travel bug after the war—that’s [where] we’ll go. Maybe rent the same room and listen to the awnings flap all night again. Oh well, such thoughts do not improve my disposition—so enough is enough—Love, Ang June 19. Downtown early & to Post Office. Read in P.M. Had early dinner and wrote letters in evening. Bed 10:30. [V-Mail, postmark 6-29-44] 6-19-44 Corsica Hello Honey: Boy, I sure got the mail today—two from you—one from the folks, Kay—Is & Al—Corsons—Nuna & Nuno—and the Shrickers. My, oh my—now look at all the answers I have to write. The funny part is, that in your letter you warned me about that trouble. Woe is me. I sure am sorry about Jr.—he does have trouble—doesn’t he? By the way, I also got a letter from Joe. Boy, he sure is one proud Papa. The[y] flew in a barrel of Beer last night—and boy, oh boy, what a party we had. its amazing how successful it was—and not a woman within miles—a good old fashioned stag. I love you darling—Love, Ang June 20. Did nothing useful again today. Sent off some magazines to Ang. Mr S up for dinner. To movies—Bed 12:00 June 21. Wrote letters all day today. Didn’t even go outside. Listened to radio—Flo called. To bed about 10:30. [V-Mail, postmark 6-21-44] 6-21-44 Corsica Hello Dear: I hope you don’t mind my not writing yesterday—but I poured out eight letters yesterday, and you can get only so much blood from a turnip. I even wrote to your Dad—so you can see how ambitious I was. Did I tell you I got a letter from Kay? She certainly does write nice, newsy letters. I got a kick out of the news about Herm. Of course Scarlet Fever is not joke—but at his age—tch, tch. I hope you aren’t having too much trouble finding a place to live in L.A. Maybe you can find a place at our Honeymoon palace. Remember “Moitle”—ha, ha! Or was it “Sadie”? I love you dear—Love, Ang [Just for fun, here's the Hotel Stowell in Los Angeles. See below.] Form 5, C-21, Combat flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:05h [Crew sheet for June 21, 1944.] [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 11.] 11. 6-21 Castagna RR Bridge Center of bridge Heavy, moderate & innaccurate No holes. [FROM SCRAPBOOK. See image above.] # 11 Castagna RR Bridge Both boxes hit center. Carroll and Henthorn did another beautiful job [See Official Documents -- Awards and Medals for the Air Medal Citation.] June 22. Up early & to Rowena’s to pay for COD box. Ugh. Stayed there all A.M. To town & then dinner. Read in evening. [Letter. Postmark 6-22-44. On air mail stationary] 6-22-44 Corsica Hello Dear: I know this letter is long overdue—but really its hard enough to fill up a “V”. However I’ll try to get one of these “long” ones off every week. Say, I’m kind of proud of myself—I’ve really been on a letter writing binge these last two days. I’ve written to everyone (practically) that you put in the book. Everyone from the Adams’ to the Schrickers—including the Falls, Joe, John H., Frankie, Reynier’s, Reardon, V.C.—etc. I guess that’s the way to do it—sit down and get rid of my obligations all at once. That sure sounded like quite a family reunion—I do wish I had been there. it sounded like the old Kenwood days again. I’m glad you took Tom and Bobby over to my folks house—I’ll bet they were crazy about the boys. I can just see Dad urging them on—and giving them permission to wreck the house. We should have let Kay’s charm go to work on my folks a long time ago—I’ll bet there would have been no trouble then. One of your last letters said that you wished I’d start getting some mail. I’m sorry. I haven’t told you—but I’m just about all caught up now. In fact I’m the envy of the squadron—three-four letters a day. Yes, as far as mail goes, I’m well contented. As far as the war effort goes and my wishing I was in it—Honey, I’m in it up to my neck. I’m well on the way, with ten missions to my credit already. The censor said it was allright to mention the no. of missions we have, so don’t be so shocked. I’m learning more about his censorship everyday—pretty soon I’ll be able to squeeze all the news in a letter that’s possible. I’ve got a bunch of postcards of the island and as soon as its O.K. I’ll send them on to you. One of these days I’ll get to go to Rome—and then I’ll really be able to fill up a letter. I’m certainly sorry to hear about Jr. Elaphantitis is no joke. We’ve dad a dozen lectures about malaria and that—they both come from mosquitoes. Of course there isn’t much danger out here—but we take all the precautions—spraying—sleeping under nets etc. Most soldiers overseas worry more about mosquitoes than they do about enemy bullets or flak. I think we swallow more atabrine pills than we do spam—and that’s saying a lot. However, don’t worry—as I said there isn’t much danger out here. I hope you have good luck in finding living quarters in L.A. I guess this is the limit of my ability on a long letter. Give my love to everyone, dear—most of it to yourself. I sure do love you sweetheart. Sometimes it takes a lot of will power to keep myself under control. What I wouldn’t give—oh well! I love you honey—Love, Ang Form 5. C-22, Combat flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:35h [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 12.] 12. 6-22 Gricigliana RR Bridge Hit - Right. Heavy, intense & fairly accurate ---3 ships holed. 4 ME 109's attacked. [TRANSCRIBED FROM SCRAPBOOK. See image above.] # 12 Gricigliana RR Bridge Flak Heavy, intense and fairly accurate. 4 ME 109's attacked but were chased by the gunners. 3 ships holed---including one below. 1st box hit to right. We hit center. Carroll did another wonderful job. The kid is good. [****news clipping on same page regarding someone from 487th squadron. Norman Lawrence.] In this short six day period, Ang was transitioning to his job as Navigator. Of course he was already trained as a Navigator. They often did "training" flights to keep up their skills or train on new instruments. In June of '44, Ang had four training flights. Betty was settling in to life in Los Angeles. She visited their high school friends, the O'Briens, in Long Beach. As I mentioned before, the mysterious "Mr. S" was a friend of her mother's. There are two possible names in Betty's address book! My grandmother was a single (divorced) woman. I'm not sure which Mr. S this was, but I do not think it was the one who was Margaret's boss. I sure wish I had asked Betty why she didn't like this one. Was it him, or just the fact that her mother had a "friend" who always seemed to be around. She didn't seem to mind his nice car! ************************ Thursday June 8. Rainy and cloudy all day. Had hair done and loafed the rest of day. Wrote letters in evening. To bed early. FORM 5. C-8, Combat flight as bombardier, B25-J, 1:50h [See June 1-7 or "Official Documents" for the June Form 5.]
June 9. Did some laundry and ironed. Downtown to PO and then to movie. Read in evening. Bed about 11:00. June 10. Put away suitcases & cleaned apt a little. Mr. S. here all P.M. Dinner out & to movie. Home & bed about 12:30. [V-Mail. Postmark 6/20/44, forwarded to L.A.] [no dateline] June 10, 1944 Dear Betty: I’m beginning to get all your mail now—but its coming in such a jumbled mess. I’m keeping them in a stack according to dates—and when I get them all, I’ll read them over and maybe they’ll make sense. For instance I got one that said you and Mom went some where—and I thought you meant my mother—then I get one dated 4 days before telling me that your mother had come to town. Oh well, it adds spice to letter reading. It sounds like quite a family reunion—doggone it, I always miss out on all the fun. Just wait until this war is over though—Boy, oh boy! I love you dear—Love, Ang FORM 5. A-10, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 1:20h June 11. To 10:30 Mass and then to Long Beach to see O’Briens. Had a real nice time. Got home about 11:00 Read paper and to bed. June 12. Lovely long letter from Ang. Wrote letters all PM. To store and read all evening after dinner. Bed by 11:30. [V-Mail. Postmark 6-22] Corsica 6-12-44 Hi Hon: I just got your praises about my letter writing—and of course they came just as I was being ashamed for slacking off a bit. So—I guess there is nothing for me to do but roll up my sleeves and pitch in. I’ll keep the “good work” if it kills me—and it probably will. Of course there are times when I’ll have to skip here and there—but that can’t be helped. I’m sorry I haven’t been sending these letters to L.A.—but I just got your letter telling me to. I hope you had some luck in train reservations—It wouldn’t be very happy carrying Donny all that way on a cattle car. I love you, darling—Love, Ang Form 5. C-12, Combat flight as navigator, B25-J, 1:55h [Crew sheet for June 12, 1944.] [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 8.] 8. 6-12 Arrezzo (near) R.R. Bridge 1 - One 2 - Short (Moore). No flak. [Note: I believe the "Arezzo" in blue ink at the bottom was added by Ang in the 1990's when he was reviewing his records. His handwriting was becoming a little shaky. Also note that the crew sheet is dated June 11, but according to the 57th Bomb Wing records, there were no missions on the 11th due to rain. ] [TRANSCRIBED FROM SCRAPBOOK.] #8 Arezzo RR Bridge Flak: Heavy, Moderate, & Inaccurate. One hit center We hit short This was my first mission as a navigator. I don't go much for this business of third box navigator. Jerry puts up a curtain of flak at the first two boxes---and you have to lead your box into it. I wouldn't admit it, but I sure was tempted to slide a little bit over to the side. To top it all off, I had Skinhead as my Bombardier---Ah well, such is life. Bombardier: Moore (Skinhead) June 13. The sun was out for awhile today. Downtown for Fathers Day. Mr S. & Mother brought in dinner. To movie. Bed by 11:30
FORM 5. T-13, Training flight as navigator, B25-J, 1:30h What can one say about June 1944? So much was going on in the world and in the lives of Betty and Ang Adams. Before the first week was over, Betty took the train from Chicago to Los Angeles where she lived with her mother until Ang came home in 1945. Ang flew on 6 of the 7 days: three missions, two training flights and apparently an Administrative flight on the 2nd. Oh! And of course, there was the Liberation of Rome and to the north of Corsica, the Invasion at Normandy. **************** Thursday June 1. Had to walk all day - but hard too. Took Mrs A and Jen to station and then to Grams. First chance I’ve had to see Jr & E.M. FORM 5. T-1, Training flight as navigator, B-25J, 2:40h [V-Mail, postmark 6-13-44, sent to Chicago, forwarded to L.A.] 6-1-44 Corsica Hello Darling: I got another big batch of letters yesterday from you—so I guess I’m just about caught up now. At least I know about your job. It certainly does sound very interesting. Arne is still with me—but they have split up our crew as such. Perhaps they’ll let us get together again sometime. Say, dear, I don’t suppose there will be too much extra money in the bank—but if Kay wants to visit Herm and there is — anyway you can help her -- I want you to. I’ve told you once, but in case you didn’t get the letter, don’t leave any money in the bank for me. I don’t need it. I love you darling—Love, Ang June 2. Down to Adams and packed - then took luggage to depot. Said goodbye to girls at F & G and picked up check. Bed about 11:00 FORM 5. A-2, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 1:30h [This flight is listed out of order on Ang’s Form 5. It was probably a “nickeling” mission.] June 3. Very warm. Bea took us to station. J & D - Ann - Jr & Betty & Peg. Had a terrific walk to our car--nearly melted. Sleep early. FORM 5. C-3, Combat flight as bombardier, B25-J, 2:00h [Crew sheet for June 3, 1944.] [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 4.] 4. 6-3 Lagaro R.R. Bridge 1 - Hit right 2 - Hit center Heavy, intense, and accurate 7 ships holed One ship lost 1st Lt. C Sellers [pilot] 2nd A.E. Coons [co-pilot] 2nd E.A. Tupper. B[ombardier] T/S R.H. Koebeke R[adio operator] S/ J.F. McDonough G[turret gunner] S/ G.J. Carey T.G.[tail gunner] 2 Hurt [this may have been added later, maybe when Ang was reviewing his log. On the back of this page, in pencil, he wrote "Two men injured."] [Transcribed from scrapbook.] #4 Lagaro R.R. Bridge Flak: Heavy, intense & accurate 7 ships holed, 2 men wounded 1 Down 1st Lt. Sellers, C 2nd Lt. Coons, A.E. 2nd Lt. E.A. Tupper T/S Koebeke, J.F. S/S Garey, G.J. 1 Box hit - 3 missed This was the first mission that we really got flak – it was thick (I wouldn’t swear that it was a kitchen sink that I saw, but it sure looked like one). We were on Seller’s wing when he got hit - the right wing burst on fire. Sellers did a beautiful job of holding the ship – and they all got out. We had some 80 holes – and our hydraulic system was shot out, we’d almost given up hope before I managed to crank the wheels down. Must admit that we all sweated the landing out - June 4. Up about seven. Read and napped a little in morning. Mailed letters in Albu. To sleep about 10:00. Very tired. June 5. Had lunch and then napped in PM. Mr. S for dinner and me to movies. To bed about 12:30. Dead tired. [V-Mail, postmark 6-14-44, forwarded to L.A.] Corsica 6-5-44 Hello Darling: I got two of your letters addressed to me at the last APO—so I guess I’ll be getting mail addressed to me here pretty soon. I suppose that by now you have heard the good news about our taking Rome. It won't be long before we are going there to visit. By the way, is there anything you’d want me to say to the Pope for you—ha-ha! You’d better be good to me—because when he and I are buddies I’ll be able to get a divorce just like that—so there! I love you darling—Love, Ang FORM 5. C-5, Combat flight as bombardier, B25-J, 1:50h [Crew sheet for June 5, 1944.] [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 5.] 5. 6-5 Orte Road Bridge 1 -- south approach. 2 -- center Heavy, moderate & inaccurate. No holes. [TRANSCRIBED FROM SCRAPBOOK (see image below)] #5 Orte Road Bridge Flak: Heavy, moderate, & inaccurate. No one holed. 1st box--Hit south approach. 2nd box hit center. Bridge colapsed--pretty job. June 6. Up early and to Ventura with Mr. S. Then for lovely ride along coast. Had dinner and drinks. Home early and wrote letters. FORM 5. T-6, Training flight as navigator, B25-J, 1:45h [V-Mail. Postmark 6-14-44. Forward to L.A.] Corsica 6-6-44 Hello Darling: Boy, the news is sure wonderful--first Rome and now the invasion. It certainly is welcome, we’ve been waiting a long time for it. We just heard Gen. Ike speak—it sure sounded good to us. Well there is no sense me telling you about it—the newspapers back home probably give you twenty times the news we get. Talking about news—will you please get me a subscription to Time magazine—and not talking about news—get me one to Esquire also. Those two ought to keep me happy. Come to think of it, you might as well add the Readers Digest and Cornet [Coronet?] to that. I know that’s enough. I love you darling—Love, Ang June 7. Did odd jobs all AM. Walked to town in PM and shopped. Met Mother for dinner and a movie. Bed about 11:30. FORM 5. C-7, Combat flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:05h [Crew sheet for June 7, 1944.] [FROM ANG'S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 6.] 6. 6-7 Cecina Road Bridge. 1 - short 2 - on center Heavy, intense & accurate 4 ships holed [TRANSCRIBED FROM SCRAPBOOK - see image above] #6 Cecina Road Bridge Flak: Heavy; intense & accurate. 4 ships holed - No injuries. All boxes centered on bridge. Best bombing I've seen yet--nothing left to bridge. We had 20 some holes---one was pretty close in the nose. 6/3/2016 Update: It’s funny that I don’t even know if anyone is reading this, but just in case, I’m adding this little intro. I realized that I didn’t add my usual summary at the beginning of this post in any of my three versions of this site. The big news was that Ang finally flies his first mission on May 22; a 4 hour 45 minute mission to Ferrantino. He finally tells Betty about it in his May 30th letter, in his typical joking way. I find it interesting that I’ve read similar descriptions in many WWII histories. They all talk about the fear and then they talk about the Red Cross coffee and donuts — and the shot of alcohol, or “medicine” as Ang says. I’m always struck by how awful it must have been for both of them to wonder when the mail would catch up and yet they continue writing letters. Ang writes on the 28th that he’s finally received letters from Betty - 11 of them. Meanwhile, back in Chicago, Betty seems to be on a whirlwind tour, visiting friends and relatives. It seems that everyone is in Chicago, even her mother, Margaret, who has arrived from California, and her sister Peg with son Donny. Sadly, all these people died before I realized I needed to figure out what was going on in May 1944 that brought them all back to Chicago?? Later, we’ll see that they took advantage of the situation by getting an amazing and treasured “Five Generation” photo. Tuesday, May 22. Stopped after work and picked up coat. John and Bea over in evening. Bed about twelve. May 23. Threatening all day - and rained about supper time. Had permanent - very curly. Home to Adams very late. May 24. Rained. Met girls but broke so just had a coke. To Kays for diner and evening. Falls up and took us home. FORM 5: C-22, Combat flight as bombardier, B25-J, 4:45h [FROM ANG’S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 1. These can also be see under the "Ang's Flight Log" tab.] 1 5-22-44 Ferentino Road Block. Made two 360's over target because of clouds 9/10 coverage 1 box dropped--missed bridge. 1000 lbs bombs. No flak. [V-Mail, postmark 6-1-44, sent to Chicago, forwarded to L.A.] 5-24-44 Corsica Hello Darling: Sorry, I haven’t written the last couple of days—but I’ve really been busy. I wish I could tell you—oh well, never mind. In our spare time we’ve been building ourselves an officers club—and that means more digging and more work. I’m telling you, I’m liable to wind up with three muscles—maybe even four. Last night we went to an Officers dance. There were about six nurses and umpteen officers—need more be said? So I went downtown and got in a crap game. I won three hundred dollars—lost it—won two hundred—lost it—and wound up three dollars ahead. All well, whats money—just paper over here—and that’s no joke. I love you darling. Love, Ang Form 5. C-24, Combat flight as bombardier, B25-J, 2:00h (Crew/Mission lists that are available can be seen under the Official Documents tab.) [Crew sheet for May 24, 1944. ] [FROM ANG’S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 2.] 2 5-24 Orvieto Road Bridge. 8/10 overcast. One box dropped. Flak heavy, scattered & inaccurate from airfield. Missed bridge—hit power plant. May 25. Warmer, but rained in PM and cooled things off. To Adams for diner - then to Grams. Did laundry and to bed at 11:30. May 26. Very warm today. Adele and family & Uncle Paul in. K & family etc down for dinner. Sure glad to see them all. Bed by 11:30 [V-Mail, postmark 6-5-44, sent to Chicago, forwarded to L.A.] 5-26-44 Corsica Hello Darling: I finally got three letters yesterday—oh happy day. Two from you and one from the folks—yours date 11 & 12th & right after you got to Chicago. Yes, it does seem like the old days again—getting mail from Chicago. I guess now that they’ve got my range[?]—I ought to be getting mail pretty regular. I guess you’ve been reading about this theatre in the papers lately, eh what! Those Jerries are sure catching hell—and we’re giving them all we got! I sure would hate to be in their shoes—or foxholes right now. We sure feel happy about the boys on the beach head—and I’ll bet they are delirious. Say, dear, If you haven’t sent those light bulbs—forget about them. If you have, its O.K.—someone can always use them. I love you honey. Love, Ang May 27. Cooler today. To Adams after work but to Gram’s for dinner. Out with Donny. Called Mel. Ha! to bed about eleven. May 28. Lovely day. No one here for dinner. Up to Joe’s aunts—Mr. M. up & Mom out to dinner. I put Don to bed—and myself by 11:00. FORM 5. C-28, Combat flight as bombardier, B25-J, 2:20h [Crew sheet for May 28, 1944] [FROM ANG’S FLIGHT LOG. MISSION 3.] 3. 5-28 Bucine R.R. Bridge. Missed target-- very hazy. Heavy, scant & inaccurate. Shot at from Elba on course-- Vail navigating- Got a razzing. [V-Mail, postmark 6-7-44, sent to Chicago, forwarded to L.A.] 5-28-44 Hello Honey: Well, its finally happened—I got eleven letters yesterday from you. Boy, it was like Christmas—yahoo! They were all jumbled up though—that is different dates and not as you sent them. For instance, I know you have a job—and that you meet a lot of society dames—but I don’t know where you work and what you do—please tell me in one of your letters. Oh well, I suppose the ones in between will catch up someday. Gee, I sure feel swell about getting those letters—It made me feel good. I love you darling. Love Ang
May 29. Very warm. Mother, Kay & boys--E M & Jr to Adams for dinner. Reyniers and Pat out later. Bed about 1:00. Dead tired. Betty, 2nd from right, with Kay on right and Betty's grandmother. Ang's father, Sam on left. Form 5. T-29, Training flight as bombardier, B25-J, 1:00h [Training flights not recorded in Ang's log book.] [V-Mail, postmark 6-8-44, forwarded to L.A.] 5-29-44 Corsica Hello Honey: Well, I’ve just gone thru all your letters—again! And now a few questions. Your job—what is it & where. On the tenth you said a notice from Fort Sam Houston told you my allotment had gone thru—on the 27th you said you hoped the allotment had gone thru. What gives? I guess that’s about all—you’re a good little information as a whole. About the silk stockings—really honey, they weren’t worth sending. The weave was wide apart. When the clerk picked them up and put his hand in it and spread it slightly apart—it just sprung apart and there was a run a mile long. Those Brazilian made stockings are not the U.S.A. kind. I love you darling. Love, Ang May 30. Up about 11:00 and up to Grams - just loafed all day. Washed head, did some laundry & ironed. Back to Adams. Bathed and bed. FORM 5. T-30, Training flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:30h
[Letter on air mail stationary, postmark 5-31-44, sent to Chicago, forwarded to L.A.] 5-30-44 Corsica Hello Darling: I know, I know! Its about time that I got a nice long letter off to you. I’m sorry darling, but there really is nothing we do to make a long letter possible. Its absolutely the same routine, day after day. If we don’t have a mission for the day—All we can do is lay in bed until noon or maybe get a few letters off. Then after lunch, we sit around and shoot the bull or play poker until dinner. Then we play poker or maybe go to the open air theatre until bed time rolls around. So you see, theres not much there to fill a long letter. The only thing that could be of interest to you is about our missions, and since we can’t tell you about them—well! That is I can’t give you the details about any missions—but I guess the censor won’t be too mad if I told you how I felt on my first mission. Here goes! When I first got here—I didn’t exactly know what to expect. It sure wasn’t like what I did expect. Everything was just—well natural. The fellows were just a normal bunch of boys—and really swell to the newcomers. They helped us unload our luggage and helped us set up a tent—and gave us plenty of advice on how to dig a fox hole—ha, ha! Of course we closely watched the old timers to see how they acted—so we could know how to act too—copy cats. Well, we weren’t around very long before the newness and tenseness wore off . There was no excitement about the missions—no good lucks, thumbs up—nothing dramatic about them. It was just like going on a practice mission to Lake Murray in S.C. Of course when the time came for my first mission—that little excited, choked up, feeling came again, and stayed for quite some time. However, it wasn’t quite like anything I expected. I guess those bull sessions and actions of the old boys is a form of group psychology—it sure helped. When we got out to the ship—none of the other boys acted like they knew it was my first mission—they acted just as if I had as many missions as they did. On the way to the target I kept my eye on the lead ship and lead bombardier. Boy, if you’ve ever seen a shadow operate--I was that lead bombardier’s shadow. When he smoked, I smoked—when he put on his flack suit, I put on mine—when he put on his flack helmut I did the same. I copied his every movement—that is until the flack came up. It was very light (I found out later as I pulled my body out of the helmut), but for every time he ducked, I can proudly say I had him beat to frazzles. I was out of sight behind the plating before he even thought of it. Well that kept me up for awhile until we went on the bomb run—and then you're so busy you forget everything else—and the next thing you know, you're back at your own field. Well, that's No. 1—and you are a veteran—ha, ha! Well, dear, as they say—the first one is the toughest. After that, there is only one thought in our minds—and that’s to get those missions off and get back home. That’s all you hear around here—only 10 more to go—only 20 more to go etc—and I go home. They don’t count missions as one, two, three—its 49, 48, 47 etc to go. And talking about that, they sure don’t waste any time in getting those missions off. Don’t be too surprised if I’m eating the Christmas turkey with you and the folks. “Home for Christmas” is my motto. Don’t expect it, but don’t be surprised—that’s all I’m saying. I don’t know as yet if I’m to be a Bombardier or a Navigator or both—the old question again. However, if its ever decided—it will be right here, so that’s something. Well, sweets, for one not having anything to write, I’ve done pretty well, Give my love to everyone—especially to yourself. Don’t worry about my poker—what I get out of my salary takes care of it for the month—there is nothing else to spend it on—everything is free. Oh, I forgot to tell you, when get down from a mission the Red Cross is waiting with coffee and doughnuts—and are they good. And we also get a double shot of “medicine”. Maybe that’s why the boys are always fighting to go on a mission. That’s the only way to get it over here. I love you—Love, Ang P.S. Give a nice donation to the Red cross—I don’t know what we’d do without them. May 31. Rained real hard in PM but still warm. Pat, Dee, Is, Marge & Peg to Adams. Had a real nice time. Bed late. "A FAIR WIND AND THE HONEY LIGHTS OF HOME ARE ALL YOU SEEK." Sometimes you’re just happy to have a place to call home. After re-learning how to dig a fox hole (see May 15 V-Mail) it probably makes you particularly happy, even if it’s a tent shared with a good friend. Sometimes it’s a “room of one’s own” where you feel like you belong. In May of 1944, neither Betty or Ang had great options. Living with her in-laws was probably pretty difficult for Betty, although she and Ang’s sister, Jen, got along quite well. I’m not sure there have ever been two sisters-in-law who loved each other more and could make each other laugh the way Jen and Betty could. Meanwhile, Ang devoted a page in his scrapbook to display his various “homes” on Corsica. His first room mate was Arne Bylund, of his “original crew.” There are no flights recorded on his Form 5 so I believe he was mostly busy getting settled in with the other members of the 486th Bomb Squadron and working on setting up the tent with Arne. And training. There was always more training. He writes one more long letter about his visit in Africa with his friend, Bud. He mentions catching up on his letter writing, and he also mentions having a publicity photo taken. Here’s another early crossing of paths with his friend Tom Cahill. Ang doesn’t mention Tom, but Tom mentions Ang in a letter to his mother in July when he includes the publicity photo that Ang mentions to Betty! Sixty-plus years later, when I first began working on Honeylights, I searched for Cahills and eventually found Tom’s niece who had come into possession of Tom’s letters home! Sunday May 14. To Mass, home & wrote letters. To Grams after dinner & downtown to movies. Home & bed by 10:30 May 15. Warm still. Really worked hard today. Cooled off in PM. met Jen and shopped. Washed hair and bed by 11:00. [V-Mail. No envelope, but 5-24 noted at bottom, so it looks like Betty received it on 5-24.] 5-15-44 Corsica Hello Darling: Well, Arne & I are finally all set up—tent etc. Its wonderful what a person can do with a few nails & some wood. Before we get thru—it will be just like home—or as close as we can get to it. You may not know it, but your husband does have a few muscles. He can feel both of them aching like hell. I just finished digging a fox hole for myself. I’m not a professional yet—so it doesn’t look very pretty—but boy is it deep! I guess that’s what counts when you need it. Arne has just finished building a closet for our clothes—real class. I guess that’s about it, sweets-- I love you. Love, Ang May 16. Stormed during the night. Not too busy at office. To Grams for dinner and stayed all night. May 17. Rained again last night. Very warm again—but turned cooler in P.M. To show downtown with Jen. Bed 11:30. [V-Mail, postmark 5-27-44, no dateline, no date received] 5/17/44 Hello Darling: Not much new today that I can talk about—more digging & more building. The tent really looks good & looks very comfortable. We just added a table to our collection (master carpenter Bylund)—all we need is a couple of easy chairs & we’re all fixed. Say dear—if you could manage to pick up a small radio—please send it to me. The Germans put on a good program for us—the music is swell! Also, please send me about 3-4 electric light bulbs. Wrap them in a good sturdy box—maybe one of them will get here whole. We’ve got plenty of electricity—but no light bulbs—and I hate candles! I guess that’s about all now darling. I love you—Love, Ang [FROM SCRAPBOOK] #1 Just a tent in the valley - very hot. So - - -. #2 We built shack on hill. As a summer home it was wonderful - there was always a cool breeze. However, along came winter. The breeze was still there, but it became an icy blast, so - - -. #3 We moved down in valley & built our home. We bought a radio - got air mattresses for our sacks - and even got a private generator for our electrical system. May 18, 19, 20 blank [Betty’s diary] [Letter, written with pencil on air mail stationary, postmark 5-19. Addressed to Chicago, and forwarded to 502 Westlake, Los Angeles. Note on envelope: “Recd 6-15”] 5-18-44 Hello Darling: You’re about due for a nice long letter—so here goes. As usual I don’t know what to talk about—so I’ll talk about Bud and what we did while we were together. As I’ve told you—he almost passed out when he first saw me—it sure was the last thing he ever expected (me too, for that matter). We stayed at their little villa that day and all of the next. The food and hospitality were wonderful. We just laid around and talked, and leisurely killed off about 6 bottle of vino (ugh). Anyway, all good things must come to a pass, so we had to head back to camp that night. Bud picked me up the next day and I spent the day at his camp. He conducted me on a cooks tour of the place, and---well I’ve already described his camp to you. At night I sat up in the projection booth with him and saw him run off the movie—quite interesting. The next night he had a date and with the usual Roehm ideas—he insisted that I come along. I don’t know how the girl felt about it—but I don’t feel that she had a kick coming because she brought her brother along. The usual Roehm situation. One girl—one brother—one buddy (that’s me) and Roehm in the middle trying to make a good impression. What a life—he never changes does he? Anyway, it wasn’t as bad as it sounds. The girl was really very, very nice—that is for a French girl. She had studied English at school—and spoke it very well. When she made a mistake, Bud would correct her. That is, he did, until she started asking him questions about the past tense, passive verbs, etc—then he shut up—but fast! I asked her what “Ooh, la, la” meant. She thought it over very carefully, and said “I guess it means the same as the American “Get off my back.” Boy that floored me—these Frenchmen sure learn fast. We went to the nicest place (and the only place) to eat in town. These Frenchmen may have trouble finding food to eat—but they always have vino. They load the table with vino for every course—and if you can find the food between the bottles, you’re pretty lucky. So, we ate—and then went to her house—sat around and listened to the radio while she and Bud danced. Then we went home. Bud likes her quite a bit (“for a foreign girl”)—and I don’t blame him. She’s pert & pretty—talks well & has a sense of humor—in fact shes the closest to an American girl that can be found over here. That’s high praise-- Well, honey, that’s the full dope on Bud—I had to leave the day after and didn’t see him again. Maybe I’ll get over there again one of these days though—I hope! I haven’t got anymore of your mail. Some of the boys coming from the last place said that I had a stack of it a mile high though—so one of these days it ought to catch up. I’m going to be a plenty busy, and happy man then. Please excuse the pencil—but ink is pretty hard to get around here. I guess that’s about all I have now darling. I love you very, very much—Love, Ang [V-Mail, 5-27-44 postmark] 5-18-44 Corsica Hello Darling: I’m going to see if I can’t catch up on my letter writing today. I’ve just finished one to Bud—and now I’m tearing along on my second one. Yesterday I put out three—so I’m not doing so bad. Pat me on the back. Yesterday they took some pictures of us for the home town papers—so maybe one of these months you’ll see your husbands face beaming out at you from one of the newspapers. Ah, this Air Corps—all this glamour & publicity! We had chicken last night—and boy was it good. It sounds funny—me raving about chicken, but after all this “wholesome” Army food I’ve been eating—chicken is a real treat. However, don’t tell my mother, or she’ll pack a couple & send them on. Love, Ang May 21. Up, & down to meet Mom. They were so tired. Ann and Bill over for a while. Sat up and talked half the night.
[See photo below. Henderson Women. Probably May 1944. Adele Henderson Hatch, Margaret Henderson Russell, Kay Henderson Affeldt, Anna Harrington Henderson (mother) and Ann Henderson Goodwin. At the time, of Anna's 12 children, there were also four living sons. Betty's mother, Margaret, visited from California. Ann, Margaret's youngest sister, was pregnant at the time. Ann & husband Bill visited Betty & Ang in Columbia in March 1944.] [V-Mail, postmark 6-1-44, addressed to Chicago, forwarded to LA] 5-21-44 Hello Hon: I know you’ll excuse me for not writing yesterday. I got ambitious and decided to get rid of my letter writing obligations. I wrote eight letters—imagine that! I don’t know whats come over me. I still haven’t got any mail—and I’m slowly but surely working myself into a fury. Oh well, some day it will start coming in a steady stream and I’ll be happy again. I do wish it would hurry though. I don’t feel much like writing today though—so I guess I’ll satisfy myself with this one. Its Sunday—and I’m restless. I even went to the chapel this morning—so you can see for yourself. I love you sweets. Love, Ang Ang and his crew received orders for their change of station. His Form 5 shows an Administrative Flight on the 12th so I assume this was their flight from North Africa to Corsica, to join the 340th Bomb Group, 57th Bomb Wing. They were just in time for the German attack on Corsica airfields during the night of May 12-13. Of course he doesn't mention this when he wrote to Betty the next day. We might not know his part of this story except that he wrote about it in his scrapbook and included a clipping about it from the 340th Bomb Group's Second Anniversary booklet. He dates his scrapbook note as May 11 which is one of many times he misdated information or was just confused about a date. Years later, we teased him about his inability to remember our birth dates. As noted earlier, Ang Adams was a storyteller and I am fully aware that he took a great deal of poetic license in the telling of his tales. I appreciate that he kept most of the gory details out of his letters and the bedtime stories he told us. The German attack resulted in loss of life and damage to planes and equipment. Some of the men now on Corsica had already survived the eruption of Mt Vesuvius in March 1944, and now, in spite of another major cleanup task, the 340th Squadrons showed their typical grit and determination and managed to send some remaining planes on scheduled missions less than 12 hours after the attack. (You can read more about the effects of Vesuvius here http://www.warwingsart.com/12thAirForce/Vesuvius.html and about the German attack here http://57thbombwing.com/340th_History/340th_Diary/17_May1944.pdf ) Friday May 12. Terribly warm today. Met Pat and Shirl [friends from high school] after work. Had dinner and walked all evening. A’s pictures are very good. Form 5. A-12, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 2:45h May 13. Not so warm today. Shopped all P.M Bot a suit & coat. Napped and did laundry. Read papers. wrote Ang—bed 12:00. [V-Mail] 5-13-44 Corsica Hello Wifey: You’ve probably noticed the change in address—well that should be definite. This is home for quite awhile—I hope! In case you can’t read it in the little box-- 486th Bomb Sq. 340 Bomb Group APO 650 I suppose you’ve also noticed the “Corsica.” How do you like that? I didn’t even know that it was in our hands—much less expect to be here. I’ll tell you more about it after I’ve had a chance to look around. I think I’m going to like it here very much. all the fellows seem very nice—and the informality is wonderful. That’s about all for now-- I love you darling Love, Ang 5/11/44 First day with outfit Also Jerry raided the hell out of us. Landed at field at about 6PM. After eating, were assigned to tents, Being new and eager, I asked my "veteran" tentmates if I should dig a fox hole. "Hell no," says my "veteran" tentmates. "Jerry won't come over." At about 9PM Jerry hit the night fighter field up the line. "Wasn't that a sight?" said my "veteran" tentmates, "maybe tomorrow we'd better dig fox holes." At about 11PM Jerry visited us. The ack-ack woke me up; but since it didn't seem to disturb the snoring of my "veteran" tentmates, I tried to go back to sleep. However a few seconds later, the ammo dump went up and we all got out to see the show. We stood in the company street so we wouldn't miss anything. Jerry laid a string of frags about a hundred yards away. Up until then I had done everything my "veteran" tentmates had--I figured they knew what they were doing--but after that I hit the biggest hole I could find, and beat all the "veterans" to it. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The next day I found out that the outfit hadn't been raided in over a year--therefore none of the "veterans" had ever been in one---and they didn't know anymore about what to do than I did---the damn fools! AFTERMATH OF RAID
“Helpful” Adams (that’s me) walking along. Saw Capt. Lee digging fox hole. He had hit water and it was oozing around his ankles Said “Helpful” Adams, “Say Capt. Lee, you’ve hit water.” A disgusted look crept over his face as he looked up at me. “God damn it, I know it!” I couldn’t imagine what he’d gotten made at, but I had enough sense to slink away. I wonder what he got mad at? As May 1944 begins, Ang finds himself ordered to do more training and will spend more time in North Africa. Sadly, he does not get a chance to see Bud again. Betty has settled in to life in Chicago. She is living at her in-laws and working. She continues to spend her spare time visiting friends and her family, writing letters, shopping. On the 11th, she mentions going downtown to buy tickets. I'm assuming she is making plans to join her mother, Margaret, in California. But first Margaret arrives in Chicago later in the month. In June they are both in California and some of Ang's letters show they were addressed to Chicago and forwarded to the Los Angeles address. Monday, May 1. Rainy again, but clouds cleared up and very warm. Worked till 9:30. Dead tired. Two letters from Ang! Bed 11:30 A-1, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 1:15h May 2. Didn’t work quite so hard today. Warm. Shopped at noon. To Betty Hillis in evening. Bed by 12:00. Dead. May 3. Was going to stay home and clean up—and Specs came in. Nuts. Wrote Ang a long letter. Bed at 1:00. Ugh! May 3, 1944 orders - apparently for more training. Courtesy of Sterling Ditchey. Note that Ang's crew is the last crew on the right. Many of these names will show up in crews in his Flight Log. He becomes good friends with Tom Cahill on the left. For the most part, these "original crews" will not stay together as crews.
May 4. Awfully windy and coolish. To Grams for dinner and then to Bell___[?]—and stayed all night. Bed about 11:30. Tired.
[V-Mail. Postmark 5-17-44] 5-4-44 Africa Hello Darling: Haven’t much of news today—we’ve started back on the old, old schedule of school etc. Well, you know how that affects me. Oh well—such is life. I do wish your mail would catch up with me—then, when I write, I could answer your letters. We lead a pretty boring life—and there really is nothing to write about. We walk about a mile to the showers—a half mile to the toilet—about the same to the mess hall—and everything else is like that. It seems like I spend all my time walking to or from some place. What a life. Oh well—this walking is good for me—I’m bound to lose weight. I love you honey—Love, Ang May 5. Sunny but cold. Worked hard as usual. Had letters from Bud and Ang--They met!! Wrote letters all evening. V-Mail, 5-5-44 [5-17-44] Hello Honey: I’ve a request to make. I wish you’d start trying to get some film for that little camera of yours. Get as much as you can—and then send them to me (camera & film). Don’t send it yet. When I get settled permanently—I’ll tell you to send it. I just wanted to get you started on buying film. Get all you can—maybe Goldsmiths—or Uncle George can help you. Everyone is growing a beard around here—I had one too—but it tickled and I shaved it off. However, I’m going to let my upper lip grow until I get home again. I’ll have the most beautiful handlebar you ever saw by then. That’s about all I have now dear—I love you very, very much. Love, Ang May 6. Shopped in PM but no luck. Downtown in evening to movies. Quite a day. Dead tired. Bed about one. May 7. To Gram’s for dinner and then to Aunt Bea’s for afternoon. Back home and in all evening. Wrote some letters. May 8. Rained all day long--hard too. Met Al after work and out to their place for dinner. He drove me home--late of course. May 9. Made a date with Pat C. for Friday. To Gram’s for dinner and home with Aunt Kay. To bed late--as usual. Dead tired. May 10. Late for work - missed the early train. Awfully foggy. Bot Adams some flowers for anniv. [Ang's parents Sam and Stella. 24th anniversary.] Wrote some letters. Bed late. V-Mail, May 10, 1944 [5-17-44 V Mail] [no dateline] Darling: I finally got a letter from you—in fact two of them, dated 22 & 24th. Boy, when they tell you that the most important thing to the boys overseas is mail from home—believe them! I can’t even begin to tell you what those two letters did for me—I feel like a human being again. I’ll bet I haven’t read them more than a dozen times apiece. Boy, oh boy! I imagine there must be about thirty of them chasing me around the world—and sure wish they’d catch up. However, now that they’ve found me—I guess they’ll be coming in pretty regular. I hate to fill the whole letter with raving about my mail—but that’s about all I can think of now. I love you honey—and very, very much. Love, Ang May 11. Up early and downtown for tickets. Very warm. Worked all evening. Wrote Ang and to bed. Dead tired. V-Mail, 5-11-44 [5-22-44] Hello Darling: Please excuse the Elizabeth Ann—but I get tired of seeing that name Angelo all over these “V” mails. Between the 2nd Lt. Angelo and the Mrs. Angelo—it counts up to six. I didn’t get any more of your letters today—but I don’t feel so bad. I’ve got yesterday’s two to read over and over—and don’t think I’m kidding. I suppose by now that you are a working girl again. I hope you get a job you like as much as you did the last one you had in Chicago. I suppose it will help relieve the monotony. I can imagine what its like—spending your time between my relatives and darling Uncle Walt. It must be exciting—ha, ha! Please excuse any jumbled parts of this letter. Arne is singing his songs (champaign affects him that way). and you know how he likes to get confidential and sing in your ear. I love you sweets—Love, Ang [Below: May 10, 1944 orders, also courtesy of Sterling Ditchey. Ang's crew at tope left. Finally a Permanent Change of Status! Next stop: Corsica!] Ang and Betty were somewhat settled in to their situations at the end of April 1944. Betty, in Chicago, continued visiting friends and relatives. She found a job at F&G Life where she had worked before and would again when she got to L.A. Meanwhile, Ang logs 3 flights and then none after April 21. Then he starts looking for his best friend from Chicago, Bud Roehm. It seems unbelievable to me, and apparently to him as well, but he does find Bud and spends several days visiting him. Bud has been overseas since August of 1942, so this visit is good medicine for both of them. I will attempt to tell Bud’s story in a later post, but for now, I will let Ang’s letters to Betty tell the remarkable story of Ang and Bud in North Africa. Wednesday. April 19. Downtown and had lunch with F&G girls. Glad to see them all again. Al called about dinnertime with news of Is! Form 5. A-19, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 3:50h April 20. Rainy and dark again. To Grams all day and read. Also washed head. To Adams early. Wrote letters in evening. Late. Form 5. A-20, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 6:50h [V-Mail] 4-20-44 In Africa Hello Darling: Well, how do you like getting your first “V” mail from your husband. Does it thrill you—or do you, as I do, feel that “its about time”. I wish your mail would catch up with me. Its not that I’ve got the blues or anything like that—but it will be nice to get a letter from home. Its going to seem like the good? old days again. It will probably go on like that for a couple of months—then I’ll send you a cable and tell you to catch the first freighter over. We’ll set up house keeping in a pup tent—and live happily ever after. It seems silly, but the way you’ve been chasing after me around the country for the last year—I never know where I’m liable to find you. I love you darling. Love, Ang April 21. Downtown to see about a job - got a prospect. Shopped for shoes but no luck. Letter from Ang. Form 5. A-21, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 4:15h April 22. Rainy again today. Job fell through. Jen and I downtown shopping and to movie. Out in evening with Columbia fellow. April 23. Dark all day but warmer. Napped all day - late dinner. To Geo Corson’s in evening. Bed late again. [V-Mail] 4-23-44 In Africa Hello Darling: I almost got to see Bud—But only almost. I’m only a few miles from him. That is, every one knows that his company is near here—but no one knows just where. I’ve been running all over the country side trying to find him—but haven’t had any luck as yet. I haven’t given up hope—but we have to leave pretty soon, and I don’t guess there is much chance. Oh well, that’s luck for you. So near and yet so far. Please don’t mind this jumbled letter—the chase has got me a little excited. I certainly would like to see him again. Its been a mighty long time. I hope you got home without any trouble. Please write and let me know how you are making out—financially and so forth. I love you darling. Love, Ang April 24. Drizzled again. Got a job - yip! Ran into Eddie Shapiro. Saw Mr. Shaw. Spent PM with Is. To Gram’s for dinner. Ironed & bathed. April 25. Started work today - and really worked. Exhausted in evening. Wrote long letter to Ang and called Betty Hillis. Bed 11:00 [4/25/44-passed by examiner-on Air Mail stationary] In Africa Hello Darling: I owe you a nice long letter—so here goes. I haven’t got the hang of writing censored letters yet—so I imagine by the time the censor gets done with them, they look like confetti (if that’s the way its spelled). Knowing your tremendous curiosity—I imagine you are going crazy wondering what he cut out. Its pretty hard to try and figure out what I can and can’t write. However, I remember Bud wrote and told us about his visit to the city of Algiers—if he can do, I guess I can too. We spent two days in the city—and it was really interesting—Casbash (I guess that’s the way its spelled) and all. I’ve never seen such a mixture of peoples, and near people in my life—Americans—British—French—Italians—Greeks—Arabs—Moslems—and God knows what else. Its really a very modern city in the center—but you have to walk but a very few blocks to see people living as they were hundreds of years ago. You know—long, flowing, filthy rags hanging on them—veils on the women and all the rest that goes with it. You’ve never seen filth such as they live in—I don’t think they ever wash their children—or themselves for that matter. And now to get down to the subject of the French—the French women in particular. If anyone ever talks to me about French styles—I’m going to laugh in their face. A few of the women dress very nicely—but most of them—oh my God! At any rate—I don’t think there is an American girl—even Muriel Melvin—that can’t put them all to shame. As one of the fellows so nicely put it—all you can say for them is that they are very, very broad minded—much, much to broad for him—and us! I’ve never seen anything like it. Every sister is a business—every little brother is a business manager (I believe the profesional name is pimp)—and every doorway is a business shop. Boy, I guess our trouble is that we haven’t been out of the states long enough to appreciate that kind of stuff. Phew—I’m still blushing! We were in a mens washroom—doing as men will do—when one of the little doors at the end opened—and out walks a little French number. Without so much as a fliker of an eye—she strolled across the room—opened the door and walked out. I guess you couldn’t blame her though—there was a long line at the Ladies Room. As one of the fellows said—they sure are broad minded. Don’t mind me though—It may sound like I’m bellyaching already—but I’m really not. I’m like a hick turned loose in New York. I’m been in so many places the last three weeks—and there are so many things to see in each of them—that I haven’t had time to really get lonesome or homesick. However, there are some American things that I miss like the devil already. Oh well, the war can’t last more than ten more years—what have I got to complain about. I’ve given up hunting for Bud—my feet and the drivers gave out. However, I’ll ry again tomorrow if I get a chance. I guess that’s about all my darling. All my love, sweets—and I sure am storing up a lot of it for you. Give my love to everyone. I love you. Love, Ang My, my—I sure throw that word around, don’t I? [V-Mail] 4-25-44 North Africa Dear Wife and Barlo: Well it has happened..we have met each other. This is Bud that is writing now…Just after I had knocked myself out writing a letter to you. I hadn’t finished it for more than two hours when in walked Ang..Boy was I glad to see him. It seems he looked for me for two days before he found me. The funny part of it was I wasn’t more than 15 miles from [him] the whole time..I’ll let Ang write a few lines now…. Phew—I finally found him. This is Bud again..Just to set your mind at ease, he looks like a million dollars, no foolin..I think he found a home here, of course our little place by the sea agrees with him no end. He had a nice meal last night, and a good nights sleep…(I had to sleep on the floor to accommodate him) but I loved it..ha ha..with a little luck we might see each other now and then.. This is me again. I sure am glad Buddy loves me and was glad to see me—that floor sure looked hard! Hello again, we just had our picture taken..in about 29 months you should get a copy of it…Don't worry I won’t depend on Ang. I’ll mail it my self. Well Honey or should I say honey’s this is all for now. Ang of course will write himself later. All our Love, Bud. Love, Ang April 26. Really like the job - not much - just routine. Did some telephoning and wrote letters.
[4-29-44—passed by examiner] 4-26-44 Africa Hi Sweetheart: I found him—Bud, I mean. After searching for three days I finally got on his trail. I found his camp—and wouldn’t you know it—he was on a three day pass, his first in two years. I just about gave in then for good. However, as soon as the first-seargent found out who I was—he got a car and drove me out there. We pulled into the driveway—and when Bud came out—the first-seargent told him an officer wanted to see him. I got out and walked around the truck—man, I think I shocked 10 years out of Buddy’s life. He just stood there and gasped—and his eyes got bigger than his feet. Gosh, I was so happy to see him—I didn’t know what to do—neither did he. This is silly, but we finally threw our arms around each other and danced around the lawn. I don’t think I’ve ever been happier to see anyone in my life. He was so happy to see someone from home—he almost went nuts. The funny part was that he just finished writing a letter to us—and had just come down from upstairs where he’d been showing the landlady our pictures and telling her about me. The landlady came running down—more about that later—I’ll tell you in the next letter what a wonderful deal they have. Anyway, I was treated like a visiting king. I’ve got to rush now honey—I’ll give all details tomorrow. I just wanted you to know that I found him. I love you—Love, Ang April 27. Job is almost routine now. With Jen & [?] to see movie. Bot brown shoes. Bed at usual time. [V-Mail] 4-27-44 Africa Hello Darling: Everything seems to be breaking my way. Thru circumstances, which you can probably guess, I’ve been able to stick around longer than expected. This is the 4th day I’ve spent with Bud—which certainly is a break. The poor kid really did need to see one of us from the States—he was really down in the dumps. I guess I was like a visit to the States for him—he’s as pleased as a baby with a new toy. Not that I’m not happy to see him—he’s a sight for sore eyes. Its just like the good old days—only a different place. As soon as I get a little more time—I’ll tell you everything we have done together. Excuse the “V” mail—but I guess you can’t begrudge Buddy my time—can you? I love you darling—Love, Ang April 28. Worked about the same. Sick and that made it worse. To Gram's for dinner and evening. Home and bed by 11:00 April 29 (Saturday). Worked all day today. To confession and on to Adams. Wrote letters and gabbed. To bed rather late. [letter, 5-1-44—passed by examiner] 4-28-44 Africa Hello Darling: Well, here come all the details about Bud. There are enough to fill a book—so I’ll probably have to send it in chapters. By the way, I’m still with him—and God willing—will be for several more days. As I’ve said before, he really looks good—has put on about 15 pounds of muscle—and looks better than I have ever seen him look before. He ought to kill the girls that have given him the go-bye when he gets back to the states. He is still a buck seargent—but seems very satisfied with it—or at least with his job. If anybody tells you that the army does not put its men in the jobs best fitted for them—you can tell them they are crazy—and cite Bud as an example. He is now Special Service N.C.O.—which means he does what he always has done before he came in the Army—and so perfectly. He has charge of entertainment and amusement in his company. He selects the movies that are to be shown—and runs them off four nights a week. He’s really good in the projection room. He arranges the dances and parties and digs up dates for the men in his company—and also hires the orchestra. Can you imagine anything more natural for Bud? He has the company area looking like a summer resort—Badminton & Tennis courts—Horse shoe stakes—everything but a swimming pool—and he says that’s next. He has loudspeakers all over—which blare forth popular music all day long. He even has a record of Gerry & Jane, who (listen to this) sing a song which Jane wrote & composed. How do you like that? Its not bad, either—in fact, its pretty good! I guess surprises never cease—do they? All in all—if he had a set up like this in the states—I think he would be the happiest man in the U.S. Army. There is something about being on foreign soil that gets him down—as it would anybody that hadn’t had a leave at home in over 2 ½ years. Poor kid, he really gets the blues sometimes. I sure am glad I got to see him for awhile—it really was good for him. His tent mate says that he hasn’t seen him looking so happy and well in over a year. I guess war is really hell—especially after the first year. Getting back to info about him. As I told you before—I found him at a little place they had rented. Its just one room—but they have it fixed up beautifully. Those boys are geniuses—they can fix or repair anything. They built themselves four bunks—and all kinds of gadgets—such as bed lamps—indirect lighting and so forth. It really is nice. Its right on the beach—and they have, practically—a private beach. To top it all off, there is a Wac camp a little way from there—so I guess they always have a few bathing beauties around. Their landlady is a wonderful cook—and does very well by them—and me too! Ah yes, the landlady—I must tell you about her. She married an American soldier in the last war—but I guess he went back to the states after a few years. At any rate—deserted or not—she is crazy about Americans, and does she take care of the boys! I’m telling you—her cooking can’t be beat. To add to all that—she has a cute little French maid that all the boys are after. Paradise—eh what? And for all that, she will only accept four hundred francs (eighty bucks) a month—and that’s to pay the maid for cleaning up. You can guess who found that set-up—yep, Bud! And now a little about the boys that are in it with him. See if you don’t agree that our Buddy is the greatest little organizer that ever lived. First there is Jack—the first seargent—he gets all their passes for them when they want to go out there. The second member is the transportation N.C.O.—he arranges the transportation. And last but not (definitely not) least—the mess sergeant. Guess what he contributes. Boy, what a life—and what a man our Buddy is! Bud just called—and said he got a letter from you. He got a big kick out of the part where you told him I was on my way somewheres overseas. boy, it killed him—as he said—if you only knew! Life is sure full of surprises! I sure wish I was there to see your face when you find out that I found him. I guess that’s about all for now darling-- I love you very much—Love, Ang ****** [V-Mail 5-8-44] 4-29-44 Africa Hello Hon: Well, still with Bud—although I didn’t see him today. He has to work sometimes, even if I don’t. I will see him tomorrow though. I saw Bing Crosby in “Going My Way”—and its one picture you don’t want to miss. Its really good. He plays the part of a Catholic priest—imagine! I’ve sort of just been laying around today—and its put my mind in kind of a stupor—can’t seem to think of anything to write about. However, Adams is always trying—so here goes! All I can think of is that I love you—I love you—I love you—I love you—I love you—I love you—I love you—and I’m beginning to miss you like the devil. See what a day of rest does! Love, Ang ****** [V-Mail] 4-29-44 Africa Hello Hon: (Again) Just in case, (Gosh the censor sure is going to think this is silly) my other letter of this date doesn’t convince you-- I love you very, very much! All my love (and all my apologies for this letter) Ang April 30. Rainy in AM but cleared up. To Aunt Kays for afternoon and stayed the night. Talked and talked. Bed very late. Betty and Ang were each "en route" during the middle of April 1944. Betty returned to Chicago by train. (She remarks it was a "nice trip." I know the train went through DC because she talked about it when she visited me here in Maryland. I believe the trip took all night and it may have been a "nice" trip, but I can't imagine it was "pleasant.") She has many people to catch up with in Chicago, and seems to spend every day visiting with people or shopping with her sister-in-law Jen. Much of this visiting takes place at the home of Betty's Great-Grandmother, "Gram" Harrington. Meanwhile, Ang and his crew fly to Africa, via South America. He’s frustrated about what he can tell her that won’t get cut by the censors, but does a pretty good job describing what he has seen so far. His flights are designated as “A” for Administrative on the Individual Flight Record. He talks about crossing the equator and the Amazon which makes me wish I'd asked him what it was like to cross the ocean by air, compared to crossing by ship with his father when they came to the U.S. from Greece in 1926. In his scrapbook, Ang makes note of his “Natal” boots on a photo of him in Africa. He also mentions them later in an October letter. Their crew was among the many that flew to Africa from the Natal airfield in Brazil. I’ve seen mention of these boots on many WWII sites. Most of the time, the person mentioning them says they wished they had purchased several pair. Too bad they didn’t have a way to have other crews buy more as they came through Natal! Imagine if they’d had the internet! I’m guessing the long 8 hour flight on the 17th must be the flight across the Atlantic.
April 16. To Mass and dinner at Grams. To Adams with K. & boys. Had snack and then to Baffes[?]. Nice evening - bed late.
April 17. Up early - did some laundry then to station for bags. To show in evening. Bed about 12:30. Tired. Form 5. A-17, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 8:00h April 18. To Gram’s all day. Wrote Mom and Ang long letters. Then for dinner and home by 9:30. People here so bed late again. Form 5. A-18, Administrative flight as navigator, B25-J, 5:00h |
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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