Sunday, January 17, 1943

  Had K.P. at Camp Anza. Arose 4.30. Tried to call Betts. On the alert, no calls, letters, etc. Taken off K.P. at 1 P.M. to go to a conference for guides and guards for this ship. Movies "The Cover Girl."

U.S.S. Monticello

Monday January 18, 1943
    Left Camp Anza, Arlington, California at 7:45 A.M. on the train in car #2. We had been awakened at 4:30 A.M., had breakfast at 5:00, and left the barracks #1 with full field pack, gas mask, helmet, canteen belt and barracks bag for assembly to the train carrying all equipment.
    Major Stone, Lt. White, S/Sgt. Prescott, T/5 Brugale, Pfc. Sherman and I constituted the advance guard or guide, the entire group from our outfit on this train, the balance to folloow later. The assembly on the field was in the eerie light of early morning and the sun did not arise until we were on the train traveling northwestardly.
    The train went through Ontario, Pomona, East Los Angeles and Los Angeles and went on beyond to the piers and arrived at 10:45 A.M. We went immediately on the S.S. Monticello, which was formerly the Conte Grande, a large, former passenger ship of the Italian line.
    We were ushered into the mess hall prior to being located and then were placed on 'C' deck, about the middle of the ship, right at the base of the steps leading from 'B' deck to the former dining salon of the ship. The previous grand dining room is now lined with iron cots, in row after row, four cots high. The staircase is of hard inlaid finished woodwork and clearly shows that the boat has seen better days in antebellum times.
    On the train were advance guides of the engineer corps, ordnance and many medical units, including collecting, clearing and battalion aid stations, in addition to our evacuation group.
    The sunrise seen from the train was novel; a large cloud fitted into the space between two mountain peaks and a sliver of golden sunlight was visible between the mountains and the bottom of the cloud, while beautiful golden rays and beams of gold extended above the uppermost part of the cloud. Soon a finger nail of the sun appeared above the cloud and it was not long until the sun appeared in all its glory. Another beautiful California morning had dawned. On the train an extremely large Sunkist orange grove was observed, miles and miles of orange trees bedecked with orange globes.
    On the boat we are fed at Mess D3 on 'D' deck and you must stand to eat as there are no seats; metal trays like at Fort Dix are used to hold the food. The cots are suspended on metal chains; the bed part is of canvas tied by rope to round three quarters of an inch pipe. Sherman and I have the four bunks on the right of the staircase looking toward the front of the boat; fore to be nautical and not aft; starboard side and not port; I sleep on the second bunk; Sherman on the top bunk, starting from the floor. The "Head," latrine in army language is on 'B' deck forward - very crude indeed.
    We had dinner at 5:30, then Sherman and I went on deck and leisurely smoked a cigar; the moon was three quarters full and cast a silver lane on the water at the pier. Off to the left was the shipyard's noise, all working and well lighted with arc lights. Our boat is tied to berth 156 Los Angeles pier.
    The boatswain's whistle gives a peculiar sound as it comes out of the sound system. "The lamp is out" means no smoking on board ship.
    From talking with the sailors onboard, I learned that the Monticello is 750 feet long and 100 feet wide and carries 7500 troops in additions to supplies, army combat equipment and ammunition. It has many large guns and anti-aircraft equipment along and many boxes of supplies strapped on the decks.
    At seven o'clock P.M. all lights on the ship were put out. The only lights visible were red light bulbs scattered about the boat. At 11:00 P.M. the bugle played taps and everyone, including the sailors not on duty are to get in their "sacks" beds or cots.

Tuesday, January 19, 1943

    The bugle sound reveille at 6:00 A.M. We had breakfast at seven and I then went up on deck. It was not daylight as yet and the shipyards were well lighted and evidently working. We then had a conference of guides, chalked out the cot territory of 4201 P, our outfit, 233 cots, put on our guide badges, got in line for buying articles at the ship store. Cigars Phillies five cents, cigarettes sixty cents per carton, large tube Kolynos toothpaste thirty cents, bar candy three for ten cents. All kinds of supplies.
    We had lunch at 3:00 P.M. and were informed that we would have two meals per day on the trip. Some sailors say Casablanca, North Africa, India and Australia as the places of our destination. I feel fine and look forward to the adventure. I now know my way around the ship pretty well. Our boys are to come aboard at 11:30 P.M. and information is that we shall ship out tomorrow evening Jan. 20, 1943 for a long voyage. I write seated on cot, second from the floor, with the third cot held up in the air by its chain, the tablet held on my right knee.
    Major Stone and Lt. White have been very friendly, courteous and solicitous of our well being. It is now 6:30 P.M. and I am going on deck top look at the moon.
    The moon is full and it is a gorgeous night. I went out on deck 'D', port side and gazed across the warfront. Two Coast Guard cutters ply up and down the water front, shooting their search light at the pilings under the wharves and docks; off straight ahead a search light throws its beam high into the sky to spot an evidently friendly airplane; the moon casts its silver shadow on the water, a guard passes within a few feet with a loaded rifle; the stars are plentiful but outshone by the extremely beautiful full moon. Troops 4201 C pass our bunk. There is plenty activity. I go to chalk 4201 P on the floor, marking our troop section on 'C' deck.
    Our outfit was to arrive at 11:30 but did not come on board ship until 1:30 A.M., Wednesday, Jan. 20, 1943. All troops were quartered and lights out at 2:45 A.M.

Wednesday, January 20, 1943

    The bugle sounded at 6 A.M. and the S. S. Monticello shoved off from pier 156, Los Angeles, at 7:45 A.M., California time. At 12:15 P.M. we were permitted to go on 'B' deck for one hour. Off to the right of the ship could be seen the Catalina Island. Sea gulls followed the ship looking for food and refuse. We were ordered not to throw anything whatsoever overboard. A Navy plane flew back and forth ahead of the course of the ship. The ship is jammed with troops. It is now 2 P.M., at 2:30 A.M. the postman gave me a package sent by Betty. It contained a plastic cord for my dog tags and a pair of nice soft woolen socks for my birthday present. I also was given a letter from Betty.

Second Day Out - Thursday, January 21, 1943

    Reveille at 6 A.M., breakfast at 9:30. Went on deck from 10:30 to 12:30. The ship zigzags in a general southwesterly course. Got shots for typhoid and cholera at 1 P.M. Went on boat's 'B' deck from 2:30 until 4:30 P.M., now heading directly west. On deck with Jones, Baker, Tammany, Fallon, Green, Davis, Wilson and Scott. Small foam blown by the wind from tops of waves; warm on deck, water light blue when churned.

Third Day - Friday, January 22, 1943

    Breakfast at 8:15. Siren sounded for drill of sailors. Went on deck at 9 and stayed until 12:30; then again at 2:30 until 4:30. Lights out at 6:30. Course south by southwest. Could see rainbow when sun shone on foam from waves. Weather getting hotter.

Fourth Day - Saturday, January 23, 1943

    Went on deck at 10:30 until 1 P.M. Gunnery drill by sailors at 9. We could hear the boom of the guns as they went off. We were not informed that it was merely a drill. On deck the breeze was light and warm; the weather is beautiful, a sunshiny day. Small flying fish are visible from the starboard side. The water is as blue as blue water used in washing. Many beautiful cloud formations; purple dark, light foamy and orange, all reflected in the water. I surmise we are southeast of Hawaii about 1200 miles out from Los Angeles of the Mexican coast.

Fifth Day Out - Friday, January 24, 1943

    Went on deck 'A', at 9 A.M. and stayed till 12:30. Attended church services on 'A' deck. On deck with Walls, Short and Wertz. Saw many flying fish and two sea gulls. Weather very warm. A warm sea breeze from the southeast blows a caressing breath like some lovely days at Harvey Cedars (New Jersey beach town). The water is a very light blue when churned by the propellor. Half chicken for dinner, cranberries. Went on deck at 7 P.M. until 9:30. The sky was cloudy but one bright star appeared on the west. The twilight was indeed very pleasant, strips of lightened sky appearing between the dark clouds. Stars appeared overhead and seemed to move in the sky as the ship swayed. The boat rocked more than usual tonight, especially on the zigzag.

Sixth Day Out - Monday, January 25, 1943

   Went on deck at 8:30 A.M. At 11:00 A.M. bugle sounded gunnery practice. I stood 10 feet from starboard - forward - machine gun. Large red balloons were released and fired on when about 100 yards away. Large guns and small one fired. I obtained a fired metal shell from the machine gun. Endeavored to sketch the stairway. Read part of the book The Door. The announcer states that navy officer polywogs and small pollywogs are to wear specified dress and all medals and bars to dinner. We are evidently nearing the Equator. It is now 4:50 P.M. A chess game and other games appear at the bottom of the stairway for 'C' deck. Went on deck at 7 P.M. Naval officers, sailors and Army officers parade the deck following a sailor blowing a bugle; they are being initiated into the shellbacks - those who have crossed the Equator. Several nurses are also initiated. Stayed on deck until 9:30. Heavy dark clouds all around the sky.

Seventh Day - Tuesday, January 26, 1943

    Went on deck at 6:50 A.M. The sunrise was absolutely gorgeous. Walls, Short and I together on port side. The sunrise consisted of burnt orange mackerel sky clouds toward the west. As the sun rose higher the clouds became pure gold in color. Off to the southeast the clouds were light purple.
    More initiations. The foremast flies the "Jolly Roger" a flag in naval significance which means that the sailors or pirates have taken over and the captain's orders are nil.
    Crossed the Equator at 1638½ o'clock, heading west along the imaginary line. Played three games of chess with Sobel. Siren sounded at 7 P.M. A ship sighted off starboard side. Binoculars could not ascertain the flag, so the ship prepared for action. All men on 'A' deck chased below. All clear sounded at 7:30. Went on deck again. The heavens were studded with diamond stars. A shaft of light visible where the sun had long since gone down.

Eighth Day - Monday, January 27, 1943

    Sailors told me at 7 A.M. on 'A' deck that the ship noticed last evening was evidently a tramp steamer and it kept going. We are now sailing below the Equator. Like a spring day, gentle southeast winds blowing. Passed the 140° Meridian at 7 P.M. Watch has turned back one hour. This makes the fifth time that clocks have been turned back one hour since leaving Mass.

Ninth Day - January 28, 1943

    Arose at 5:15 A.M. so as to get water for shaving, etc. Fresh water being conserved. Gunnery practice at 9 A.M. Weather extremely hot. Went on deck at 3:30 P.M. in pants and shoes for a sun bath. Bunk quarters stifling. Got a tetanus shot at 2 P.M. Informed this was the last shot to be given. Reading The Door. Played checkers with Carlton King. Chased off deck at 4:45.
    First real scare at 6:15 P.M. Siren sounded and speaker's voice was alarming. Stated that a plane had been sighted. Went to dinner while alarm was on. All clear at 7 P.M. Went on deck until 9:30 when rain chased us in. Word received Roosevelt meeting Churchill.

Tenth Day - January 29, 1943

    Show given on deck by soldiers. Consisted of an orchestra, tap dancers and nurse coronetist. Stood in front window of forward cabin on 'A' deck, looking straight ahead over bow of boat, from 12:30 to 2 P.M. Weather hot, with gentle breeze from southeast. Drinking water is hot. Wearing pants and shoes perspiring freely. Phosphorous on water.

Eleventh Day - January 30, 1943

    Went on deck at 8 and stayed until 3:15 P.M. Finished reading The Door. Gunnery practice at 9:15 A.M. Small sail boat set adrift aft and then shot at by rear 3-inch guns. Last night on deck Short, Walls and I learned all about cattle raising, cattle ranches, etc. in Texas from Sergeant from another Evacuation Hospital.
    Many boys suffered sunburn today. Markowitz went to hospital bay and got treated for sunburn. While there he saw a surgeon perfoming an appendectomy.
    Stayed on deck until 11 P.M. talking with Sam Stearns. The night was one of those heavy warm nights often experienced at the seashore. The stars were exceedingly bright and numerous. Prior to that I had talked with a dynamite engineer from Maine.

Twelfth Day - Sunday, January 31, 1943

    Went on deck at 8 A.M. and attended Catholic Church services. While services were in progress, siren sounded. A ship had been seen off the port side. Later report was that it was a friendly tanker. Clocks had to be set back one hour at 1900 that makes six hours differences since leaving Mass. On deck with Walls, Short and Christel. Big chicken dinner, olives, cranberry sauce, apple pie and asparagus. Sergeant Noveletsky loaned me his pass to take five fellows on deck - Walls, Short, Waertz, Saxfield and Christel. Beautiful sunset; heavy, foreboding dark clouds with burnt orange reflections above, in between and below; looked like reflections from a fire. Heavy breeze.

Thirteenth Day - February 1, 1943

    Siren sounded while eating breakfast - ship stopped; water in oil. Went on deck with Wertz at 8:30 A.M. and stayed until 4:30 P.M. Heavy sea breeze; sun warm. Received card certifying that I had crossed the Equator. Went on deck at 7:30 P.M. Sea was very heavy and the wind was estimated at 60 mile per hour. The ship rocked plenty, more than any time so far. The waves crashed into the side of the ship and splashed through the windows on the upper deck. Up there with Walls, Short, Wertz and Hassard.

Fourteenth Day - February 2, 1943

    Heavy seas. Wind from south blowing in gale proportions. Albatross and large brown birds seen around the ship. Two week's journey at sea ended at 8 A.M.

Fifteenth Day - February 3, 1943

    Went on deck at 8:30 A.M. ('A' deck) with Short and Wetz. Read Alexander Wollcott's While Rome Burns. Stayed until 2:30 then came down to shave then went back and stayed until 5 P.M. Fire Drill. Crossed International Date Line at 4 P.M. Clocks go ahead or rather our calendar one day. Clocks set back one hour at 7 P.M.

[Because the International Date Line was crossed, February 3rd becomes the 4th and next day is the 5th. The number of days in the voyage simply advances by one from the 15th to the 16th.]

Sixteenth Day - February 5, 1943

    Went on deck 'A' at 8 P.M. Whistles and sirens on the ship tested preparatory to landing at Wellington, New Zealand. Rainy squalls in morning; sun came out, warming things around 1 P.M. Short gave me a piece of bread and some dry corn flakes. We get only two meals, 8:30 A.M. and 6:30 P.M. and we can eat anything we can get a hold of in between meals. Clocks turned back one hour at 7 P.M. (eighth time backwards).

Seventeenth Day - February 6, 1943

    I saw a medium sized hill nearly covered with mist at 5:45 A.M. It was the first land since embarking. A tug goes along side of the ship to lead us through the mined harbor. Many light houses visible on the shore as the ship steams slowly between two islands. Many houses seen on the brown slopes. The hills are a dark brown color. I saw this from the portholes at the gang plank entrance to 'C' deck. Permitted on 'B' deck at 9:30 A.M. A curved harbor, green tinted water, beautiful houses roofed in red, orange and green, nestled in the hillside, a red and white buoy, a Coast Guard cutter, several albatross and the wharf visible from the deck. A heavy misty fog dulls the outline of the uppermost peaks of the hills. At 10:30 we are marched in ship entrance formation on to the wharf then through the town. Wellington, New Zealand is the most beautiful town, especially the most picturesque sea port city I have ever seen. We marched up the hillsides, the air fragrant with the aroma from gorgeous flowers. Nasturtiums, sweet peas, dahlias, gladiolas, roses, morning glories, daisies, trumpet vines, many flowers not known to me, geraniums, larkspur and hollyhocks. Each home seem to have more flowers than grass and each is neat and well kept. The streets are clean and wind up hill as the descent and ascent is very great. The street cars have a motorman and a woman conductor. We passed a most beautiful botanical garden, through the gates of which I could see many well ordered flower beds in full bloom. At the main entrance the bed was of red and white flowers, absolutely beautiful; the flowers not known. Many, many varieties of trees; really a gorgeous garden and expansive. From the top of the hill the harbor can be seen. The people are predominantly British, sharp faced and nosed. As we marched three persons waved American flags. They got a hand from the boys. The architecture is solid, of the square type; the roofs being vari-colored. Next to our ship a Red Cross ship is docked. We reentered the ship at 1:30 P.M. after about a six mile hike. I just finished a cold shower and feel fine though hungry. Two meals a day do not seem enough. The telephone booths are red in color and circular in shape and are near the curb line on the sidewalk. The policemen and constables are English bobbies in type; the autos drive on the left hand side; the railway station is exceedingly large and the train sheds are not closed, the freight cars are quite small; the shops are narrow in width. Tonight on shipboard the lights of the town were dotted against the hillside; lights of automobiles could be seen winding up the hillside; the buoy lights blinked.
    On the hike we passed Camp Anderson of the U.S.M.C. stationed here. Not dark until 8 P.M. Old women smoke cigarettes, the young women do not seem to smoke; no young men seen.

Sunday, February 7, 1943

    In port of Wellington, New Zealand. We went for a hike at 9:30 A.M. along the way and passed the wharves and warehouse district, fine large, modern colorful buildings. Ten minute break along the sea wall where I exchanged American coins for New Zealand pieces. The hike took us through the business district of the city; very modern. The hydrangea flowers are immense; the geraniums are handsome. The ship takes on cabbage, potatoes, oil and boxed supplies. Quite windy along the waterfront.
    On deck until 8:30 P.M. with Walls, Short and Saxfield watching the harbor and the lights of the city.

Monday, February 8, 1943

    On deck 'A' at 8:30 A.M. with Short, Walls, Klinger and Wertz. At 10:15 A.M. a tug pulls along side, the ship's whistle gives one blast, and is moved slowly out into the harbor. The hospital ship is still tied up, we are off, passing the several buoys whose lights we watched last night. The morning is beautiful, warm sunshiny one with pleasant breezes; the city is beautiful; the mountains surrounding the harbor are easily discernable due to lack of mist and fog; station (radio) 2ZB is clearly seen on top of the mountain. We are chased off 'A' deck so I went to a port hole on 'C' deck near the troop office and gangplank and watch the beautiful port city of Wellington, New Zealand fade into the distance and into a pleasant memory. I came, I saw. Whither goeth we now? On 'B' deck aft I watched land fade out of sight. Went on 'A' deck aft at 7 P.M. First quarter moon appears in the West. Rather cool on deck.

Tuesday, February 9, 1943

    (Dad's birthday here, but we are 16 hours ahead of Clementon, N.J. It is now 11 A.M. here but it is 7 P.M. Monday at home) Went on deck at 8:45 A.M. and stayed until 10:30 A.M. Talked with Lt. White and Pvt. Frank Baker. Read the ship's news. Very cold on 'A' deck. Weather very cloudy. Land visible off starboard side. We evidently went south when leaving Wellington and are now going west along the south coast of western New Zealand and are near the Antarctic (no wonder it is so cold) The plane still leads our boat. I watched it go out of sight ahead of us. The weather beaten American flag replaced the brand new Stars and Stripes flown on the ship at Wellington. After dinner the orchestra played at the stairs leading to our outfit's bunks. An accordion, violin, trumpet, drums and clarinet. The drummer was formerly with Rua Morgan; the violinist with Henry King. The music was grand! The boat heaved, pitched and swayed, creaked and groaned all night. Very cold, heavy wind and choppy sea.

Wednesday, February 10, 1943

    Still very cold this morning. Sea still heavy and choppy. Started to read Arrowsmith. Played chess with Reynolds. Fire Drill at 3 P.M. No one allowed to drink water from fountains due to an outbreak of measles. Many fellows still seasick last night. Captain Jones said they would drop me off at Perth Australia and let me be Mayor.

Thursday, February 11, 1943

    Sea still very rough. Water swells are enormous. Many sick. Quarantine on 'B' deck for measles. Has charge of quarters 2 to 9 P.M. on 'A' deck aft. Boat rocked like a cradle. Clocks turned back one hour at 1900. This time the ninth. It is Betty's birthday here but we are 15 hours ahead of the time at home.

Friday, February 12, 1943

    Sea very choppy and wind cold. Ship still rocking plenty. Played some chess with Reynolds. Orchestra played on the steps near my bunk. The music was exceedingly fine and all enjoyed it very much, Lights did not go out until 9:30.

Saturday, February 13, 1943

    Heading west by northwest. Wind had abated somewhat but it is still somewhat cold. The ocean is beautiful and the day sunshiny and clear. Before I forget it the name of the captain of the Monticello is Bayard H. Collyer. Carlton King is in the sick bay with measles. I had a medical examination today. Clocks turned back one hour at 1900. That makes 10 times. We are now 14 hours ahead of New Jersey time.

Sunday, February 14, 1943

    Went on 'A' deck at 8 A.M. and read the morning's ship news. Wrote letters on 'C' deck. Beautiful sunshiny day but the wind is still cool. Ship heading west by northwest. Went on 'B' deck, port side with Short. After dinner went on 'A' deck in cabin and looked out lowered window watching the sun sink into the horizon. The sun cast a silver shadow on the water from on high but the wide ribbon of reflection changed to gold as the sun went down out of sight. Following that a half moon cast a silvery path on the water from the Northeast. Really a beautiful evening. Clocks turned back at 1900 for one hour. That makes 11 times. We are now 13 hours ahead of home time.

Monday, February 15, 1943

    Cold, misty, foggy, rainy day. Went on 'A' deck with Short but stayed in protection of the forward cabin. Finished Arrowsmith and started The Story of Philosophy. Siren sounded an alert at 3:45 P.M. (Fire drill and general quarters)

Tuesday, February 16, 1943

    Breakfast at 6:30. On 'A' deck at 8 A.M. Sea plenty heavy; plenty spray and wind; sunshiny and clear. A plane now leads us, presumed to be British. A destroyer appears on port side, said to be Dutch. The boat tosses plenty in all directions and creaks loudly. Very heavy seas. Played gin rummy with Elliott.

Wednesday, February 17, 1943

    "Land Ho." Went on 'A' deck at 8 A.M. and saw land off starboard side. Three lighthouses appear; it is an island. A sub chaser is alongside, three warships ahead and two mine sweepers. The pilot came on board. A tug attaches fore and aft and we are brought in a narrow channel then turned around in the harbor and docked facing oceanward. An Australian band plays as we tie up to the pier. The town is Fremantle, Australia (in the northwest part). At 12:30 our outfit went ashore and hiked through the city. Nearly all of the store fronts are boarded up. Many aircraft guns along the shore, a U.S. sub in dry dock; air raid shelters. The town is attractive and stable looking but cannot compare with Wellington, N.Z. (at least on first impression). Beautiful moonlight on the water seen from 'A' deck. Town blacked out. Harbor lighthouse lights flash.

Thursday, February 18, 1943

    Plenty action in port. Submarine has been painted; plenty ship action. Hike through town; some of others go in swimming in Indian Ocean but not the 48th. We sit on the stones along the beach. Off to the left are the chalk cliffs of the island which we saw on entering the harbor. The citizens go to the stores and purchase fruit for the boys. Ladies brought out beer in mugs and some threw fruit from the balconies. We returned to the ship at 1 P.M. and each of the 48th received one pint of ice cream. The Queen Mary, Nieuw Amsterdam, Aquitania and a Polish ship enter the harbor laden with Australian troops. The bands play. The harbor is full of warships, cruisers, pilot boats, tugs, patrol boats and planes patrol overhead. Two mine sweepers play around. The sub has been launched from the drydock, fully painted in one half day - American style. The day is a gorgeous, beautiful day, gorgeous moonlight; able to read on 'A' deck.

Friday, February 19, 1943

    Nice, cool morning. Went on deck at 8 A.M. Plenty activity in harbor, 3 large boats in harbor - Ile de France is the third large one. An American sub is put in drydock for repairs. Played chess with Reynolds, gin rummy with Elliott. At 3:30 company went on hike and stopped along the beach wall. Permitted to go swimming in the Indian Ocean. Water grand; plenty salty; all went in in underwear. Returned to ship for supper, then each man received one quart brick of ice cream. At noon each man received a large bunch of white grapes. Went on deck at 8 P.M. with Walls and Saxfield. A beautiful moonlight night; clear as crystal. Large boats silhouetted against sky; sun went down red and large and dipped into ocean. Pastel colors sprayed on horizon like vapor or steam; so streaks. Today, I believe has been my best enjoyed day with the exception of the trips home. I feel fine after the swim in the Indian Ocean. Just as at home after a swim at Harvey Cedars.

Saturday, February 20, 1943

    On 'B' deck aft at 7:45 A.M. At 9:45 the Australian soldier band plays Auld Lang Syne; tugs push us away from the wharf; we say good-bye to Fremantle. We anchor in the harbor next to the Queen Mary, Aquatania, Ile de France and Nieuw Amsterdam. The day is very warm and cloudless. At 1:10 P.M. a small former pleasure boat comes along the port side and must have left a message for we get underway, led by a cruiser and followed by a warship. I read philosophy on 'B' deck, gazing occasionally at the revolving light on the island. Land fades out of sight. Where to now? Each soldier in the 48th is presented with two pears. The sun, an orange ball dipped into the ocean; almost immediately at the opposite side of the horizon, the moon, a pale yellow canary colored ball emerged. It was a heavenly night. The moon was perfectly full and gorgeous and spread a silver pathway from the horizon to the ship. The Southern Cross stood out plainly in the southern sky off the port side. We head west by northeast.

Sunday, February 21, 1943

    Attended church services on 'A' deck. Father King was very forceful. He denounced the use of profanity and vile language. On deck with Tammany, Bader, James, Baker, Short, Walls, and Saxfield. A beautiful sunshiny cool morning. Played chess with Reynolds. Two plums given to each man. Clocks turned back one hour at 1600. That makes 12 times since leaving Fort Devens. We have now gone half way round the world. Fallon in addition to the gang mentioned watched the sunset. The sun took two minute thirty-seven seconds to leave our vision - that is from the time the bottom edge touched the water until the tip rim passed out of sight. Then the reflection edged dark clouds with a gold rimmed fringed border and shafts of light ascended. We all agreed that the picture was similar to that depicted on Sunbeam Cleanser or Sun Maid raisins. Walls and I then went to starboard aft to watch for the moon. It was again absolutely full as of the night before; yellow on first appearance then gradually silvering. It ducked behind dark clouds and cast its light upward, indirect lighting heaven made. Returned fruit loaned me by Walls.

Monday, February 22, 1943

    Breakfast at 6 A.M. Show on 'A' deck by the Monticello entertainers. The destroyer left us but the cruiser is now leading us. Siren sounded at 9:15 A.M. just a drill. Had a hard boiled egg - saved from yesterday's breakfast - for lunch. Saxfield got me a packet of Prince Albert tobacco. Jacobus loaned me or gave me a few pipefuls. All tobacco and cigarettes very scarce. Heading west by northwest. Looks like Colombo, Ceylon for the next port. No moon - cloudy.

Tuesday, February 23, 1943

    Beautiful sunrise, puffy, white clouds tinged with pink. The cruiser has gone off to starboard, parallel with our ship, about four miles out. Reports of much dysentery and more measles. Ordered to dispose of all fruit. Cloudy - patches of sunlight. Saxfield was able to get hold of supplies of cigars - 50 Cremos and 12 packets of Prince Albert. Clocks set back one half hour at 1830. We are now 11½ hours ahead of home time. Many stars visible, some falling, milky way very clear. Heading north.

Wednesday, February 24, 1943

    Three bananas for breakfast, also rice and raisins as a cereal. Several cases of ptomaine and cramps. Some say the pork was freshly killed in Fremantle. Talk by Major Kutz on conditions in India and how to prevent diseases while there. Abandon ship drill. Clocks set back one half hour.

Thursday, February 25, 1943

    Not feeling so well. Very weak from the hips down. Much illness on the ship, mostly dysentery and measles. Examined by Captain Clark - told to keep quiet. Gorgeous sunset - to the left, a pale lemon-streaked sky, bordered with dark purple clouds, to the right, dark, red flame-streaked sky, like a burning forest, the red light reflected on a mackerel sky high in the air, with dark purplish clouds above and below. Stifling hot, no one wanted to go to bed and couldn't sleep anyhow. An engineer soldier pulled a rat out of a hole on 'B' deck, threw it on the floor and killed it. By ship written announcement he gets 25 cents for turning in the rat.

Friday, February 26, 1943

    Siren at 9:30 A.M. (Fire drill). Cloudly. Played gin rummy with Elliott. Feeling much stronger. Many fellows weak and groggy. Monsoon rain on 'A' deck at 7:45 P.M. Soldiers rushed for the exit. Tony Marino had his glasses knocked off and the lense knocked out. I can imagine "Coconut Grove Fire" or what it would be like on the Monticello if "Abandon Ship" were announced. I stayed in the rain. It felt good and warm. Water cool on 'B' deck at top of stairs. About north course, zigzagging east and west of north. Clocks back one half hour. Now 10½ ahead.

Saturday, February 27, 1943

    About 3 A.M. a guard hollered "Corporal of the Guard B 10". I sat up on the edge of my bunk and put my head out. A soldier was doubled up in agony. Looked like appendicitis to me. "What's the matter," the guard hollered," are all guards asleep? The soldier was taken way soon thereafter. More shingle food for breakfast. Got my glasses fixed by Sam Stearns so Mr. Dickinson's examination could be passed. Played chess with Reynolds. Heavy, warm breezes on deck. Beautiful sunset. Dark black clouds mixed with white fluffy ones. Sun descended in a white color gradually getting more orangy until near the horizon it became burnt orange, casting reflections all over the sky on the fluffy white clouds. Then the color changed to near brown and finally to brown reflections with the dark clouds showing lavender and pastel shades.

Sunday, February 28, 1943

    We passed the Equator for the second time at 0136 that is 1:36 A.M. S.O.S. again for breakfast. Very hot - all fellows as near naked as possible. Attended church services on 'A' deck. Played chess with Dolly and Roy Miller.

Monday, March 1, 1943

    Scrambled eggs are good for the first time, no ether or banana oil in them. Saxfield has an infected tooth. Our boys on K.P., thus two pears. Land Ho! High peaks noticed off starboard side at 2:30 P.M. Tip of India; mountains come right down to the beach at the tip. Bay of Bengal on one side, Arabian Sea on the other. Small sail fishing boats with red sails. Three copper colored natives stand up in a hollowed log boat (yellow canary interior) as the ship passes close by. Natives wore turbans and small square piece of cloth. Greenish blue water background. On 'A' deck in evening; red sails in the sunset. Really beautiful sunset, blue and gold. Promoted to Corporal T-5. Very hot.

Tuesday, March 2, 1943

    We stood and sat around on deck until noon, read the encyclopedia about Ceylon and Assam. Tammany gave me a hot dog sandwich. Met Isaacs (a sailor from Seaford, Delaware) had him visit C2 and introduced him to the Delaware boys. He promised to call Betty on the phone when he gets back to New York. Sun took two minutes seventeen seconds to go out of sight. Toilet paper scarce.

Wednesday, March 3, 1943

    Our boys on ship K.P. Bader gave me three pears, Ernie Wilson two. Weather hot, humidity high. Many white sail boats on the horizon. Ship travels north in the Arabian Sea about fifteen miles west of the west coast of India. City of Bombay, India sighted about 1 P.M. Passed many fishing boats, white sailed like an Ocean City Regatta and black buoyed fishing nets or seines. City looks truly foreign but well built. Mountain peaks surround the harbor, fishing boats ply backward and forward. Ship stirs up mud. We must anchor in harbor awaiting high tide. Many boats, two Red Cross ships in harbor. Newspapers and pamphlets welcoming us to India brought on board. The dipper, the large one, noticed for the first time. Its handle points directly downward like in Murfreesboro, Tenn. All soldiers must wear hats to protect them from the sun. Strong search lights play on the harbor.

Thursday, March 4, 1943

    Changed ten dollars into Indian money - 32 rupees, 2½ rupees, 2½ rupees, 4 annas. Troops allowed off ship from 1:30 to 9:30 P.M.! Went through Custom House. Plenty peddlers, beggars and fruit vendors. The buildings are of good architecture, solid and modern along the quay. The low class natives are filthy. The better class wear turbans of many colors and loose flowing drapes. The drapes of the women are vari-colored, purple, green, white, orange, the better class of silk. Australian, English, Indian and American soldiers mix in the streets. Walls, Short, James, Tammany, Fallon, Baker, Bader and I went off together. I first sent a cable to Betts - 14 rupees, 8 annas - Short, Walls, and I went to the Taj Mahal Hotel, by Indian escort and had milk shakes and fine, fancy cakes. We then went to the Army and Navy store, the best department store in Bombay. I got some photos of India. We then walked about town looking at the sights, good, bad and indifferent. We then had dinner at a Chinese restaurant after a drink of lime juice. We had steak and chips and orange drink. We then took a ride in a gharry to the Taj Mahal Hotel and had a refreshing Tom Collins in the cocktail lounge - 2 rupees each - very modern and comfortable. Then a gharry ride to the Ritz Hotel, then wandered to the station to see the cross section of the world's travelers, then to the Indian canteen and back to the ship.

Friday, March 5, 1943

  Visited canteen on qmag(?) near boat. Went into Bombay at 2.45 P.M. with Baker and Fallon. Bought some ivory gifts necklace + Taj Mahal bottle cover. Had picture taken with Baker + Fallon.

Saturday, March 6, 1943

  On ship K.P. for short while. Helped clean boat compartment. On deck at 6.30. Dipper and Milky Way very clear. Said Goodbye to the S. S. Monticello at 12.10 A.M. and boarded a train. Left Bombay at 2 P.M. Went through Kalygar, Igstpuri to Deolali, on Indian Military train 8 men to a compartmemt, 80 in 1 coach. Ice cream and cigarettes given at station. Arrived at camp at 8.45 P.M. Corned beef + beans. (?)

Sunday, March 7, 1943

  Canopy of mosquito net. Cold in bed. Bacon, eggs and chips and tea for breakfast. Went to Church. Went into town and bought a drinking cup and aluminum cup. Drank beer on porch at night with the gang. Very cool after sun goes down.

Monday, March 8, 1943

  Got a haircut at Camp Deolali. Went on short hike with entire company around camp ground. Wrote letters to Betts and home. Went into town and had picture taken with 10 others of our gang. Went to Lumbay(?) Canteen.

Tuesday, March 9, 1943

  Calisthenics at 7.15 A.M. Hike through northeast end of Deolali. Sent pictures home and to Betts. Talk on India by British Chaplain. Went to town with James Tammany, Walls + Short. Y.M.C.A. canteen, bought cup for Fallon.

Wednesday, March 10, 1943

  Calisthenics. Went to canteen near barracks. Bought newspaper Indian Times. Marched to train at 4.30. Indian bagpipe band played at station. British officers also present. Train left Deolali at 7.00 P.M. Sunset print(?) orange

Thursday, March 11, 1943

  Hot dogs, bread, marmalade, banana(?) and coffee for breakfast. E. Wilson, Baker, Fallon, McMarrow and Linna in our compartment. Slept on hard wooden slotted seats. Playedy 500. Train travels eastward across India. Many small towns. Monkeys in trees tangerines obtained. Tea, cookies and cigarettes given out by English women at Raipur. Tea at Bilaspur by Indian women. Saw lights strong along mountainsides, extending to peak. Mysterious.

Saturday, March 13, 1943

  Troop train stops at Manharpur at 8.15 A.M. Many fertile tilled fields. Passed a steel mill well guarded by barrage balloons and cannon. Orange flowers on some trees. Meals very scanty. Saw an U. S. Air force field. The country gets much greener. More palm trees. Tea and good cookies given to the troops at Kharspur. Heavy rain storm descended. Passed into the railroad yards at Calcutta during the night.

Sunday, March 14, 1943

  Green valleys, Palms, coconuts and banana trees. Crossed Tropic of Cancer at 11;45 A.M. Crossed Ganges River at 3 P.M. Unloaded box cars. Tea and cake at 2.45 A.M. Monday. Herded in small cars. 21(...?)

Monday, March 15, 1943

  Left on small gauge railroad at 4 A.M. Sleep on seats. 3 gallons of pears. Left train at Dhubri and went to an English camp for lunch. Left Dhubri at 10.30 P.M. on river boat S. S. Luchai. Slept on deck floor at forward hatch.

Tuesday, March 16, 1943

  Large fish in Brahamaputra River. Plenty tangerines. Christel on the ball. Saw an alligator. Lovely river boat ride, Indian toilet. Regular picnic lunch. Left river boat at 10.15 P.M. at Pandu. Moved supplies + luggage.

Wednesday, March 17, 1943

  Slept on wooden train seats. Tea, bread, marmalade for breakfast. Visited canteen, bought bananas with black seeds in. Left Pandu on train at 11.10 A.M. Much activity and movement at station. Went through mountains. Pretty birds.

Thursday, March 18, 1943

  Teafields, bamboo, cocoanuts and banana trees. Beautiful birds, green, blue, blue with red head. Lunch from rations. We built a fire on the train car and heated the stew + coffee. Evidence of sabotage along tracks.

Friday, March 19, 1943

  Arrived at camp about 6.30 A.M. Detrained about 7 miles from Ledo in Assam Province India. About 80 miles from Burma border. Received cots. Clened grounds of jungle brush. Hauled dirt. Got bamboo matting.

Saturday, March 20, 1943

  Water must be boiled. In tent with Powers, Tammany, Bader, Fallon and Bird. Received 55 letters - 18 from Betts. Very Happy. Thom Caraham(?) and home. Cleared jungle brush until 11 A.M. Went for swim in Bramaputra River and washed clothes, also took bath. Wrote letters. Meals so much better in own camp. On guard 6 to 8 - 12 to 2 with Frank Baker. Beautiful moonlight. Stein saper found snake in bed. Dolly saw jackal. Many strange noises. I saw (...?)

Sunday, March 21, 1943

  600 coolies working around camp. Very hot. Many birds. Bird may be motorcycle dispatcher. Tammany on detail to Burma Road. Oil wells about 8 miles away previously bombed by Japs. Walls gets job as gasoline station man.

Monday, March 22, 1943

  Bread, native for a change. Hard tack eliminated. Helped build an incenerator for kitchen. Had talk with Cap. Jones about commission. Heavy rains during night. Helped dig drainage ditch around tent. Bed by 6.30.

Tuesday, March 23, 1943

  Laid out bomb shelter trench. On K.P. straightened up kitchen store room. Heavy monsoon rain, camp terribly muddy, a mess. Fellows feel low down. Snake scare for Bird + Powers.

Wednesday, March 24, 1943

  Natives dig bomb shelter ditches - 600 coolies work. Trucks skid into ditches. Sun appears after two days of heavy rain. Worked until dark putting stones on roadways. 2 lanterns for tent.

Thursday, March 25, 1943

  More rain and mud. Fresh dates for breakfast. Worked on an incinerator and bamboo lioned walk. Two lanterns in tent give a good light. Work until dark. Peach jam and bread tonight.

Friday, March 26, 1943

  More rain and plenty mud. Monkeys holler more than usual. One got in a hut. Received 8 letters from Betty 2-16 to 2-18 inclusive. Carried water fro drinking. Plum jam and bread.

Saturday, March 27, 1943

  On latrine detail endeavoring to drain water away from latrine pit. Rains not so heavy but still plenty mud. Wrote letters and washed clothes in afternoon and generally cleaned up the tenthold. Thunder and lightning and rain has now continued for a week. The clouds with rifts of light in between were beautifuk this evening.

Sunday, March 28, 1943

  Sun today and was it welcome. We worked on a stone path. Built an outside shaving table with Powers. Went to movies at Ledo Headquarters Base, saw Eagle Squadron.

Monday, March 29, 1943

  Bader got me some Capstan (Englsh) tobacco. Beautiful sun shiny day; mud drying up nicely. Worked on 6 holer latrine detail. Met English dispatch rider at lunch. Had small camp fire at night near tent.

Tuesday, March 30, 1943

  Yellow warning for Japanese planes. Natives hurried to slit trenches. Our men came out to look. Worked putting up construction for lister bags. Had detail of men for boiling water for drinking. Hot day.

Wednesday, March 31, 1943

  Slight rain early, about 10 large transporr planes flew southeast at 6.15 A.M. Early morning is grand. Pay day 148 rupees 15 annas. Half holiday. Many poker and crap games.

Thursday, April 1, 1943

  More rain and mud. Sun has gone on another vacation. Cabled flowers for Mother's Day. Mailed silk handkerchiefs to Mother and Betts. Poker game in evening in our tent.

Friday, April 2, 1943

  Rain and more mud. Went in woods and jungle for an orchid and pink flower like rhododendrum. Carried privy box for latrines. Bird builds a fire in the tent, plenty smoke. Poker game.

Saturday, April 3, 1943

  Heavy rain throughout early morning and day. Whole company assembled at 9.30 A.M. Guards doubled. Jap patroling parties found in area. Alert signals explained. Iron gong to ring. Marching rations issued. Assembly to be in mess hall in event of attack. Got two more lamps for tent. Found 4 lanterns in bundles(?). Put out manure on them. Worked on bamboo seat. Poker game.

Sunday, April 4, 1943

  Heavy rain and heavythunder in early morning. Had talk with Major Mailten. Got typhoid shot at dispensary. Worked on bamboo seat. Wrote several letters. Had chills and felt weak from the shots.

Monday, April 5, 1943

  On sanitation detail with Lt. Groposo. Killed a 2½ ft. snake. Officers Clark, Groposo and others present. Saw General Stilwell at our Headquarters. Six moths anniversary of my entry into army. Cloudy.

Tuesday, April 6, 1943

  Beautiful starry sky last night at bedtime; rain during night, with sides of tent up. Rain (...?) this morning. 2 snakes captured. Fine party last night. Bacon + egg sandwiches, dates, coffee on outside fire in kerosene can.

Wednesday, April 7, 1943

  Libby's canned grapes and dates last evening. 3 rupees 8 annas a can for grapes. Had talk with Lt. Groposo out in the jungle. 6 mo. anniversay for Wilmington boys. Rainy. Sizzling meat cakes of corn beef, fried egs, bread, pear + grape cocktail, coffee; all cooked outdoors.

Thursday, April 8, 1943

  Found several small orchids and blue lilies. Poured oil on several old Indian wells and had soggy wet areas drained. Went to movies at Ledo.

Friday, April 9, 1943

  Rained hard at 5 A.M. Placed oil drip cans over water holes. Attended lecture by Lt. Stankert at Officers Mess Hall. Found small orchids and large lilies. Planted tomato seeds. Wrote. Sallies Day room opened tonight. Movies in jeep driven by Tammany.

Saturday, April 10, 1943

  Sun rise clear and golden. Little rain during night. Secured and stewed dried prunes. Wrote many letters to Clementon people. Saved morning paper (toilet). Rained in morning, clear in afternoon. Worked on path and garden and planted Lantania bushes. Went to new day room to write letters. (...?) (...?) in day room, gasoline lantern.

Sunday, April 11, 1943

  Washed clothes and worked on garden. Went for a walk with Ralph Bier down to the river. Mountains very beautiful and blue. Natives slaughtered goats. Saw a big snake only 1 ft. away.

Monday, April 12, 1943

  Went to headquarters at Ledo and talked with Captain Williams about a commission. Sunny day all day. Beautiful morning. Hitch hiked back,went by military bus. Beautiful stars and half moon.

Tuesday, April 13, 1943

  Another sunshiny day. Burned jungle brush all day. Turned in my application for direct commission to Captain Jones. Got 4 light green leafed streaked with pink lily plants. Got 2 letters from Betty, 1 from Graham and Mother.

Wednesday, April 14, 1943

  Beautiful sunshiny day, real hot in afternoon. Washed fatigues, worked edging garden. Burned brush. Dry day in camp, all fill holes. Went to movies, saw Wake Island.

Thursday, April 15, 1943

  Rained lightly in early morning, Utilities makes a bat for soift ball. Worked at gardenoing around bamboo trees cleaning and grading. Very hot in afternoon. Graham + Betts heard from me by letter. Got letter from Graham.

Friday, April 16, 1943

  Worked cleaning out bamboo trees and burning brush. Practiced soft ball in afternoon for sanitation department teams. Heaviest rain at 5 P.M.

Saturday, April 17, 1943

  Softball game between cooks and sanitation department. Cooks won 10-2. I played second base. Bier finds a 6 ft. snake in his tent. Ernie Wilson finds it in helmet all coiled up - non-poisonous. Red Cross donated 3 bats, 7 new gloves and softball, radio, battery kind, victrola, many records and games, books and mouth organs. Beautiful hot day. Rained aboput 6 inches yesterday.

Sunday, April 18, 1943

  Took a walk in the jungle back of the native bashees. Saw a monkey about 4 feet tall and a water buffalo. Played the detached service team in softball. Lost 9 to 1. Rain at 3. Monnlight fine.

Monday, April 19, 1943

  Lecture on insurance in day room. Beautiful sunshiny day. Worked burning brush and oiling swampy wet places. Lecture on China and the Chinese. Hot water injected into Chinese, also sugar given as pills, or salt tablets.

Tuesday, April 20, 1943

  Burned brush. Won soft ball game from oficers 4-1. Went to movies saw Vanishing Virginian. Very good. The moon was full and it was a beautiful, gorgeous night.

Wednesday, April 21, 1943

  Indian rum and grapefruit juice in the tent at night. Burned brush. Went to Headquarters at Ledo about commission. Stopped to see Frankie Baker at 20th General Hospital. Beautiful day and night.

Thursday, April 22, 1943

  Gorgeous moon last night. Saw Bing Crosby in Holiday Inn. Pay day 159R10A. Took a walk to Margherita with Ralph Bier. Looked at some gems which a head hunter had at bazaar. Many lightning bugs.

Back at home the local newspaper printed this story . . .

VIEW ORIGINAL

Enjoys Jungle Life LEIGHTON J. HELLER Camden Courier, Thursday, April 22, 1943 HELLER SAYS INDIA IS LIKE DEER WOODS  Former Clementon Mayor, in Medical Corps, Writes of Jungle Animals    Former Mayor Leighton J. Heller, of Clementon, is living "something like you in South Jersey do on a deer woods trip" but he's doing it in India in the Medical Corps of the Army.    And he's "enjoying it very much." he writes.    Former Mayor Heller, who entered the Army last Oct. 5, is a technician fifth grade, attached to an evacuation hospital. He gives an account of his life in the jungles in the following excerpts from letters to his brother, Graham F. Heller, of 50 Fulton avenue.    "March 8, 1943 - What an adventure! I am somewhere in India, the exact location, of course, I cannot divulge. These foreign cities are certainly different from those known to us.    "The natives dress usually in flowing white robes with sandals for shoes of they go in their bare feet. They are not very clean, however. On the streets are many heavy wooden wheeled carts drawn by oxen and open air carriages drawn by horses. Servants Get 15 Cents Weekly    "We are getting on to the money situation. A rupee (about 30 cents) and annas (about four cents). Natives shine our shoes, make the beds and bring tea right to our barracks. They get paid eight annas (about 16 cents) per week.    "The beds are wooden framed and have strong hempen cords stretched as springs. . . Don't worry about me as I am very well and enjoying the experience and foreign sights very much. Keep on writing and tell the gang to write."    "March 27, 1943 - Brother, I have really travelled. Imagine me writing you from the jungles of India. The boys figure that we have travelled 27,000 miles since joining the U.S. Army. Forty-three days on the ocean and a long train ride in India.    "You can imagine my joy at receiving six letters from you and three from mother on my arrival here. We are now in camp, many monkeys, beautiful birds, plenty spiders, leeches, cows and bugs are around. Some of the flowers are beautiful. Sees Elephants Cross Stream    "Lantania bushes grow wild. The rice and tea fields were a new experience. I have seen may water buffalo, flamingoes, vultures, elephants, monkeys and a few hyennas. In fact last Saturday, we took a swim in a river and two elephants crossed right near us.    "I live in a tent with a bamboo matting for a floor covering, sleep in canvas cots, entirely enclosed with mosquito netting to keep out bugs, mosquitoes, spiders and snakes. . . . The mess hall is made of bamboo, with palm thatched roof, very picturesque.    "Natives, Indians, live in tents about two squares from us. A tribe of headhunters is nearby, but all American soldiers seem to get along with them. I find that a smile is the same in any language. The rains are terrible; it has rained every day this week and the grounds are a sea of mud.    "All drinking water must be boiled before it can be drunk. Our living conditions are primitive, to say the least, and the continual monsoon rains have made a mess of things, mud, mud, mud and wet feet.    "I have spoken to Captain Jones about getting my commission, open to lawyers who have been in the Army for four months, and he has promised to take it up with the colonel. Sees Hindu Castes    "The Hindus have many castes; in the cities there are many beggars, cripples, decrepits, filthy individuals and children. They wear loose white sheets and many wear turbans. They are all very religious and there are many beautiful white temples of worship.    ". . . I saw many beautiful mountains, made into odd shapes by nature. We get English cigarettes. Not so good. I break them up and smoke them in my pipe, since I cannot get pipe tobacco yet. Our meals have been good under the circumstances. I am well and live something like you do on a deer woods trip, but I'll make out. I can take it as well as the next."

Back to the Diary . . .

Friday, April 23, 1943

  Good Friday; Half holiday. Received 2 air mail letters from Betts. Washed all dirty clothes. Worked on garden. No movie, generator broken down. Wrote to Gary Bensinger. Terrifying sneezy (ground ...?) noise at night. Guard claims it was a tiger.

Saturday, April 24, 1943

  Rained in early morning but cleared by 9. Fallon and Bird for Dhubrigar. Tammany had Lee Kia Riang at camp for lunch a Chinese soldier from Kunming, China. I gave him American money and he gave me a Chinese stamp. Got beaten in soft ball by Officers 6-4. I had 2 hits out of 3 times. Went to movies and saw Reap the Wild Wind in technicolor.

Sunday, April 25, 1943

  Made a wicker back and seat for my bamboo garden seat of a chicken hamper. Went to Tingsuki in afternoon, rode on freight train from Digboy to Tingsuki. Bought wallet and 2 burlap bags for shopping.

Monday, April 26, 1943

  Medical exam for Commission at 20th General Hospital on way to Ledo met Captain McNally (dentist) from Ardmore who knows all the Vergas. Met Captain Sheie who went to school with Dr. Shipman.

Tuesday, April 27, 1943

  Got 2 letters from Betts and one from Graham. Beat the Bombardiers in baseball 7-4. Saw movie "It happenmed in Flatbush" Sprayed field at movie to prevent mosquitoes.

Wednesday, April 28, 1943

  Cleaned bamboo stumps in morning. Went to Doom Dooma in truck with cooks. Got ivory lions and other pieces; then went to Tinsykia and went to British canteen for lemonade and cake.

Thursday, April 29, 1943

  Inspection of camp by Surgeon Generals. All camp cleaned up. Indian beer and American cigarettes rationed. Oiled dirt trenches. Tammany shot off pistol by accident.

Friday, April 30, 1943

  Tammany cleaning chicken houses. Bader guarding bottled beer. Oiled whole camp. Heavy monsoon rain and wind at 5 A.M. Saw "Whispering Ghosts" at outdoor movie. Sprayed area.

Saturday, May 1, 1943

  Poured oil on puddles near railroad track. Sanitation beat Headquarters personnel in soft ball game 15-2. Two hits ouit of 4 times. Beautiful sunshiny day. Tammany on permanent K.P. Boots purchased at 30 rupees. Gin at 40. Bamboo juice 1 rupee 8 annas. Put red paint on back of wicker and bamboo chair. Rumors prevalent that we may leave this camp soon.

Sunday, May 2, 1943

  Worked in garden. Went to Church in the day room. Took a walk with Ches Oszewoski and found a beautiful gardenia bush about 8 ft. high and 6 ft. in diameter, full of large buds.

Monday, May 3, 1943

  Filled drip cans with crude oil. Oiled road tenches. Buried a dead cow in back of soft ball field. So hot that the outfit had the afternoon off. Went to Walls + Shorts tent to listen to Jones's radio news.

Tuesday, May 4, 1943

  Heavy wind and rain this morning at 7.30 - must be monsoons recharging. No work in morning. Worked on building a set of steps in the side of the river bank at the lower end of the garden. Meeting of men over 38.

Wednesday, May 5, 1943

  Picked five large gardenias 3 inches across. Bought an opal and ruby from a Hindu contractor. Put white circle on the garden chair. Seven months in army. No movies because no generator.

Thursday, May 6, 1943

  Went to Doom-Dooma with Powers. Prescek and Scott. Had lunch at Chinese restaurant in Doom-Dooma. Two news correspondents visited my garden. Generator on movies machine broke down, then blew out the bulb.

Friday, May 7, 1943

  Executed papers for commission application. Finger printed. Made a will for Delamaster from Paulsboro, N.J. Made a bamboo letter opener for Betts. Took a walk down to the river and saw women carrying stones in baskets from the river on their heads.

Saturday, May 8, 1943

  Sent a Mother's Day Vmail letter to Mother. Postpones execution of application for discharge from army on account of being over 38, so that there would be no reflection on commission appication. 48th Evac beat Battalion Aid Hospital 11 to 2 in soft ball. Sent Mothers day Vmail and regular letter.

Sunday, May 9, 1943

  Took walk in jungle with Ernie Wilson and shot a 45 Colt. Went to church in Day Room. Played golf at Digboi. Met Mrs. Johnston who loaned us golf balls and clubs. We had tea at 4.30 and heard news.

Monday, May 10, 1943

  Worked cleaning up tent and ground around it for inspection by Inspector General. Commission papers returned for letter of recommendation. Worked on garden and mound.

Tuesday, May 11, 1943

  Had teeth cleaned by Sgt. Scanlon. Got Major Meister's fatigue hat. Had tea at Johnston's home at Digboi. Met Mr. Johnston - tea on lawn overlooking mountain. Rode back in a jeep to camp at 8.30.

Wednesday, May 12, 1943

  Inspector General called and inspected camp. Many soldiers entered complaints about the 48th at Day Room (74 in all) especially about Sgt. Hoffman selling pens for profit. Movie in evening Are husbands necessary.

Thursday, May 13, 1943

  Had profile done in sketch pencil by Weiner. Got letter from Betts and Harry Attmore. He knows Albert Bird Sr. Fibber Magee and Millie movie "Here We Go Again."

Friday, May 14, 1943

  48th Evac. divided. 100 men to go to Ramghar to take over a hospital. Saw "The Hard Way" and "Life Begins at Eight Thirty," in the outdoors near Supply bashee in half moonlight.

Saturday, May 15, 1943

  Enlisted men to leave on train at 5 P.M. for Ramghar. Men in our tent stay here. Hector Massalaro got a letter stating that Monticello got back O.K. to United States. Fallon and I saw monkeys in trees. Got letter from Al Cronmiller. Took baggage to train at Marghearetta station. Good news received about African campaign - now over

Sunday, May 16, 1943

  Took walk with Dale Short along the river bank to the East. Went to church. Stopped to talk to natives selling small dried fish and smelly large ones. Saw furniture factory.

Monday, May 17, 1943

  Took my commission application to General Headquarters. Captain Derby asked me to work at Headquarters in Courts Martial work.Johnstons visited camp for supper.

Tuesday, May 18, 1943

  Went to work at General Headquarters. Examined record of court martial and studied book of Law and The Soldier and Manual of Court Martial. Heavy downpours at night.

Wednesday, May 19, 1943

  Caught 7.15 truck to Ledo Headquarters with Walls and Short. Had lunch at Ledo mess hall with Scott and Feibel, Christel and Boulis. Hot and lots of bugs.

Thursday, May 20, 1943

  Got permission from Capt. Derby to leave at 3 o'clock. Got 4 letters from Betts, 2 from Graham and legal letter from Judge Bushing. Had dinner at Johnstons at Digboi then went to movie at English club. Rode both ways in jeep.

Friday, May 21, 1943

  Appeared before Direct Commission Board, Colonel Mallett, presiding and was examined relative to commission in Judge Advocates Department. Wore neck tie again.

Saturday, May 22, 1943

  Rained all morning. Went to work in truck with Walls, Hardy, Short, Callings and Scott. Studied all day on Manual of Courts-Martial. Examined several court martial records. Ate lunch at Headquarters provisional mess hall. Rode home in military bus to Mrgherita and from there to camp in command car. Rode back to office in a weapons carrier.

Sunday, May 23, 1943

  Work at headquarters at Ledo today. Many anti aircraft guns appear on road between Margherita and Ledo. Had ride in a weapons carrier and command car. Pulled weeds.

Monday, May 24, 1943

  Rode to work in a truck, went to lunch in a command car, back to work in a jeep and back to camp in military bus. Went to English club at Digboi to see Fantasia, Walt Disney's symphony.

Tuesday, May 25, 1943

  Plenty hot, like mid July at home. Roads very dusty. Walls and Short have moved into a tent right near us. Received three letters from Mother, Dad and Graham.

Wednesday, May 26, 1943

  Heard that I got over 95 for a mark on examination before Military O.C.S. Board. Went to Digboi English club in truck with Short to see "Man in Her Life." Many English.

Thursday, May 27, 1943

  Captain Jablonski informed me that his wife had seen my writeup in Camden Courier and sent him a copy. Walls + Short move into tent near me. Studied on court martial procedure.

Friday, May 28, 1943

  Received letter from Betts dated May 9 stating that Frankie B's friend had called on the night previous and had delivered the letter - pages 1 to 42.

Saturday, May 29, 1943

  Weather very hot and roads dusty. Lemonade made in the day room - no ice though so it was not so good. Captain Earl S. Swarner, Chief Staff Judge Advocate asked me to work with him on courts martial work. Think that I shall become assistant chaplain. Bird signs up for malaria control unit.

Sunday, May 30, 1943

  Extremely hot and roads terribly dusty. Clouds of dust cover the air and roadside. Office force allowed to take afternoon off. I visited Walls at P.O.L. dump and took swim in the quarry hole at the foor of the mountain.

Monday, May 31, 1943

  Got paid today, Rupees 302 Annas 11 (Got 91.60) Went to Chinese Restaurant at Ledo with Scott and Senechal. He was down from Hellgate for a week's rest.

Tuesday, June 1, 1943

  New setup. Reveille at 5 A.M. breakfast 5.45 - work 6.30 - supper 6.15. Officers and about 30 Burmese nurses stop at our camp. Walls, Short and I talk with an Englishman about the exodus from Burma with Gen. Stilwell.

Wednesday, June 2, 1943

  Read the April 19 issue of News Week. Listened to the radio reports on the shelling and bombing of Italy on Jones's radio in his tent.

Thursday, June 3, 1943

  Radio reports monsoons have started in Burma. Went to 20th General Hospital to visit Oscar Tannenbaum, Noges and Tex Johnson. Scott and I drove down in a jeep at lunch.

Friday, June 4, 1943

  Rained all last night and all morning today. McPhee drove us in a weapons carrier alomg the river hunting for the fort. Saw four large elephants. They did tricks for us.

Saturday, June 5, 1943

  Got off from work at noon time. Went with Roy Powers to Johnstons at Digboi for tea. Went to the company store of the Assam Oil Co. Ltd. where the English people go for their rations. Had roast lamb, roast potatoes, Indian spinach, split pea soup, ice water and chocolate and vanilla pudding. Two M.P.'s drove us back to camp from Digboi.

Sunday, June 6, 1943

  Went to work in weapons carrier driven by McPhee. Walls has the day off. Short stopped in the office to bring me back to camp. Boys playing black jack as I write. Many bugs.

Monday, June 7, 1943

  Senechal shot and killed a snake while a Hindu prayed. Hindu got mad. 15 fellows rode in weapons carrier to work. Some went to Hellgate.

Tuesday, June 8, 1943

  Walls, Short, McPhee, Scott, Davis and I visited the old fort along the river, built in 1828. We got the weapons carrier stuck in the mud. A cat ate Jenkins monkey. A writeup in the C.B.I. Roundup about the 48th. I am mentioned for the garden.

Here is the story in CBI Roundup . . .

VIEW RECREATED ISSUE

June 3, 1943 Hospital Unit From Rhode Island Wins First Fight Against Jungle  By ROBERT P. MARTIN   United Press War correspondent     AMERICAN AIR BASE IN ASSAM - American doctors and nurses from the Rhode Island Hospital at Providence have won their first battle against the jungle and primitive living conditions prevalent at this base. They arrived recently during a typical pre-monsoon storm and almost tearfully eyed the bare clearing surrounded by dense water-sweating jungle, where American engineers were rushing work on bamboo houses. Not waiting to unpack their supplies, however, doctors and nurses threw themselves into the work and within a few days the were grudgingly called "smart jungle rats" by the engineers.   There is little to capture the imagination here as far as the alleged romance of the East is concerned, but the camp is the pride of most of the hospital unit, built with their own hands. I trudged through ankle-deep mud under a pelting rain, watching the bright and cheery nurses, clad in khaki trousers tucked into rubber boots and G.I. raincoats, continuing their work. Under the bamboo eaves, they were washing clothes in tin helmets and buckets, their hands still raw from chopping wood and pumping water. Two other nurses were repairing a brick walk leading across the morass from their quarters to the main path, which the men had constructed with gravel from a nearby dump. HAD FEW FEARS   Ten feet from the edge of the camp was the jungle, but the girls had few fears. "We hear wildcats at night occasionally and the men tell us tigers have eaten cattle in the hills back of the camp, but we don't worry any, even about the snakes," Miss Thelma Sanders, a tall blonde from Seekonk, Mass., told me.   Using the few available materials, the nurses have made their quarters as homelike as possible. Christmas and Valentine cards, pictures of families and sweethearts at home, ghurka knives and gaudy calendars decorate most of the rooms. They painted signs such as "Gee-Too," and "Bide-a-Wee" to identify individual quarters. At present they sleep on cots, but have hopes of obtaining hospital beds.   "It isn't so bad, but I ruined my finger-nails building my own furniture," mourned Miss Eileen MacHenry, a Canadian-born girl who now lives in Providence. Her wash stand and dresser were on the rickety side, but definitely were usable. BUILT OWN CLUB   The officers built their own club, purchasing rugs, bamboo furniture, shades and contributing magazines, books and a portable phonograph. They have a cooperative bar. Once or twice weekly a small quantity of Indian liquor, generally gin, can be purchased, and drinks are served on a pro-rata basis. So far the quota has never exceeded two drinks a night.   Maj. Abraham J. Meister, 33, of Lowell, Mass., who is executive officer of the unit, found an abandoned 250-gallon tar cooker and after a lengthy battle converted it into a water purifier. He also constructed a simple but effective sewage and garbage disposal plant. The unit used as much care in constructing a kitchen as in building a surgery, and through use of gauze and mosquito net made it into one of the most sanitary kitchens this correspondent has seen. KNEW WHAT TO DO   Col. Charles L. Leedham, 40, of Clinton, Ia., a 15-year veteran of the Army and commanding officer of this unit, told how the enlisted men who had been through the Tennessee and other maneuvers before coming across had swung into the camp and gone to work.   "We didn't see them for two days, they were so completely in hibernation," he said. "But when they came out, they had fixed their tents into the best living quarters possible. They knew what to do and did it without any help."   Pride of the enlisted men is a "jungle garden" constructed by Cpl. Leighton J. Heller, of Clementon, N.J., a pre-war lawyer and mayor of Clementon. He used bamboo for arbors, bamboo baskets for garden seats, jungle plants and then constructed a small network of gravel paths in his off-hours.   Activation of the unit on Aug. 17, 1942, "almost decimated" the Rhode Island hospital according to Col. William A. Mahoney, Providence, who is chief of the medical service. Younger men were promoted and retired surgeons were called back, while others unfit for Army duty carried a double load.

  Back to the Diary . . .

Wednesday, June 9, 1943

  Two nurses ride in the weapons carrier with us. They nurse at a native hospital at Likapana and told many funny anecdotes about natives spitting thermometers and pills.

Thursday, June 10, 1943

  Went to Digboi last night and saw Barbara Stanwyck in "The Lady Eve." The big G.I. truck stolen from in front of Digboi movies.

Friday, June 11, 1943

  Beautiful June morning. John Shaw in Ledo Headquarters lives at 42 N 25th St., Camden, N.J. Many comments about the C.B.I. Roundup especially the work done by the officers and nurses. Went with McPhee and the gang in the weapons carrier to see a film on malaria at the Indian Club, then to Ledo Chinese restaurant. Heavy electric storm.

Saturday, June 12, 1943

  Air raid warning. All got in slit trenches back of the tennis court. 15 of us went to Ledo in the carrier to see Jack Benny and Ann Sheridan in "George Washington Slept Here."

Sunday, June 13, 1943

  Small tanks move up the highway past Ledo. Got off at noon. Fine meals at the 48th today. Cooks really went to town, Chicken, mashed potatoes, peas, chocolate cake, peaches and pineapple juice.

Monday, June 14, 1943

  We could see the snow patches on the highest peaks of the Himalaya mountains as visibility was good. Cool, cloudy day. Went to Digboi to see "My Wife's Family," an English picture.

Tuesday, June 15, 1943

  Bird works back of the kitchen. Went with Short to see movie Errol Flynn in "Gentleman Jim." Sat on a rounded rock for the whole show.

Wednesday, June 16, 1943

  The weapons carrier wouldn't keep going - something wrong with the carburetor. Took military bus to work. Went to Digboi and saw "Flight Command" with Robert Taylor and Ruth Husser.

Thursday, June 17, 1943

  Bader went on Detailed Service near Ledo. Now lives at Provisional Headquarters. Heavy rain this morning. Scott nearly got shot as native cleaned pistols.

Friday, June 18, 1943

  Received letter of recommendationfrom Justice Donges, Judges Baldwin and Bart Sheehan. Very hot and humid in camp but able to sleep at night. Two wild cats fighting and screeching awakened us at 3 o'clock in the morning. They ran through the tent.

Saturday, June 19, 1943

  A large diamond back cobra caught and killed by Endres and Hall. Had a hop toad in its stomach. Walls drove the weapons carrier to Ledo, saw Hedy Lamarr in "White Cargo." Walked back from Margherita with Walls and saw a Hindu temple in session, red light on porch and lots of hand clapping. Colored soldiers got in trouble with Hindus, soldiers got cut up and beaten up. Worked half day.

Monday, June 21, 1943

  Saw funeral procession carrying dead Hindu. Four men carried deceased on a bamboo stretcher, one man carried shavings, one brought small wood, one large wood, another brought clothes.

Tuesday, June 22, 1943

  Pineapples appear in great numbers. Cut the outside off and eat them like apples. Terrific downpour of rain during the night. Pin holes in tent allowed drops to fall.

Wednesday, June 23, 1943

  Received 19 letters in one batch, 10 from Betts. received letter from Gary Bensinger. Went to Digboi to see Robert Taylor and Greer Garson in "Remember." Very good.

Thursday, June 24, 1943

  Went to Ledo Headquarters to see Claudette Colbert and Joel McCrea in "Palm Beach Story." Chinese boys liked to see Madame Chiang Chi Shek in news real. Also saw "Star Spangled Rhythm."

Friday, June 25, 1943

  Requested to move to Headquarters Reserve at Ledo. Cow got stuck in the mud in back of tent, in the ditch, called Weitzman, James Hall and Bohanna and we pulled the cow out.

Saturday, June 26, 1943

  First day in new quarters at Ledo. Hardy, Walls, Bader, Short and Scott helped me move. Live with Bader and Red Perkins in basha #12. Beautiful black butterfly with diamond shaped purple markings flies in basha as I write. Plenty hot and dusty tonight and today. More dead cows and a dead dog in the road, hit by trucks.

Sunday, June 27, 1943

  Had a walk to the Ledo Bazaar with Carl Scheib, then went to Christels basha and had a pineapple party. Very hot and dusty today, no rain. Had a half day off.

Monday, June 28, 1943

  Sent letter to Supreme Court Clerk for certified copy of admission to N.J. Bar. Worked on court martial supervisory work before records go to Delhi. Complimented by Captain Earl B. Swarmer

Tuesday, June 29, 1943

  Helped Solomon Loew in preparation of legl papers concerned with his father's death. Five large watwer buffalo near basha. Had bull session with Holland, Streib + McFarland.

Wednesday, June 30, 1943

  Filed supllemental papers and necessary affadavit on commission application. Christel brought over a half pineapple to the basha. Saw "Rules of Manhattan" at Ledo.

Thursday, July 1, 1943

  Received pay of 159 Rupees, 10 annas. Went to Johnstons for dinner at Digboi with Powers. Took handkerchief sent me by Betty for her. Fine dinner. Had a hot bath in bath tub.

Friday, July 2, 1943

  Went to movies at Digboi club and saw Bing Crosby in "Birth of the Blues." Carl Streib and I ditched the mud puddles around the basha. Hall moved in with us. Now 8 in basha.

Saturday, July 3, 1943

  Terrific rain last night and this morning. Radion news distributed in office - latest baseball scores and up to date news. Drainage ditches back of basha work well. Bader, Perkins, Hall, Forsmark, Streib and I went to 20th General Hospital to see movie "The Sweater Girl." It poured stopping movie and all got soaked. Wild cats put on act and large bull frog during night.

Sunday, July 4, 1943

  Went down to 48th in a pickup truck driven by Bader, to take a shower bath. Got a piece of devils food cake and 24 boxes of matches. Heavy downpour at 3.30. Read Colliers dated April 19 and Camden Courier of January 29.

Monday, July 5, 1943

  First package received since leaving U.S. from Betty, a package of Walnut tobacco. Prepared application for transfer from 48th to Judge Advocate Department S.O.S., U.S.A.F. in C.B.I., A.P.O. 689.

Tuesday, July 6, 1943

  Ernie Wilson moves into our basha. Working on T/O for this Base. Meeting in mess hall about Day Room. Saw Eleanor Powell in "Ship Ahoy" at Ledo Hqs.

Wednesday, July 7, 1943

  Steady rain. Colonel Arrowsmith promoted to Brigadier General. Native kids pour water on each other. Red Perkins made out a lorry pass for four native kids.

Thursday, July 8, 1943

  No rain all night. Strange gang of soldiers from Camp Davis, N.C. arrive here. Ack-Ack outfit. Saw movie "Casablanca" at 20th General Hospital. Rode back in Special Service (Red Cross) truck

Friday, July 9, 1943

  Received 15 letters and one post card. Eight letters and post card from Betts, 2 from home. All boys got mail and sat back of basha reading them. Received poems.

Saturday, July 10, 1943

  On arrival at Basha at 12.05 (noon) four soldiers were in basha. They said the fellow who sleeps here just killed himself. Irving (Red) Perkins had been cleaning a pistol. According to Beckshur (bearer) "Boom, sleep putting his hand to side of face." Happened about 11.30, blood all cleaned up when I arrived. Sgt. Colvinis(?) made inventory of posessions. Bullet hole. Went to (...?) for dinner, strangest over night. Went to Bengal Entertainment Service assin (?) (Besa)(?) show. Met Dr. Prusser.

Sunday, July 11, 1943

  Had breakfast, caught stone truck from M.P. station, then other truck to Prov. Hq. Red Perkins buried at 11 A.M. at Margherita Tea Garden.

Monday, July 12, 1943

  Extremely hot and dusty today. Lot of new officers and men arrive today. Streib, Wilson, Holland, Forsmark and I have pineapple party. Got a haircut by Indian barber.

Tuesday, July 13, 1943

  Beautiful sky at sunrise, Olive green, purple, pink, lavender and dark streaks across the eastern sky. Pineapples for supper. Went to 48th with Bader, E. Wilson, Forsmark, Boulis, Fahling + W. Wilson have malaria. McLernon the second time. Surram caught a bat while on C.Q. and had it under a waste paper basket. Pineapple party and bull fest at basha.

Thursday, July 15, 1943

  Slight rain during night first in five days. Boys talk in sleep. Brig. Gen. Arrowsmith returns from vacation. 2 O.C.S. applications of other men returned. Cow gets in basha, knocks down barricade.

Friday, July 16, 1943

  Large ring doughnuts for breakfast. Very tasty. Gave candy (G.I.) to Chevalier a Hindu native boy. Beautifuk full moon all the boys sat back of basha having a bull session until 8.45. More ack ack gunners come up and go on up toward Hellgate. They are to make sand bag fortifications.

Saturday, July 17, 1943

  Indian soldiers practice daily on large anti-aircraft guns in emplacement across road from our basha. Streib, Holland and I sit back of basha until 10.30 P.M. discussing war and relative value of aircraft, infantry tanks, etc. Got 10 letters, 6 from Betts at 5 P.M.

Sunday, July 18, 1943

  Terrific monsoon rain at 3.30 A.M. Thunder reverberated through the hills, plenty wind, rain, thunder and lightning. Received Asiatic (C.B.I. ribbon) and insignia from 48th Evac Hospital.

Monday, July 19, 1943

  Working on O.C.S. Military Board reports. Also soldier charged with 2 specifictions of murder under 1 charge (93). Loel reports soldier dishonorably discharged together with 20 years in jail. I claim 10 yrs. is all can be given. We shall see.

Tuesday, July 20, 1943

  Beautiful, clear, sunshiny morning. Today marked six months of foreign service. Left California on Monticello January 20.

Wednesday, July 21, 1943

  Strerib and I went to Ledo Bazaar. Watched natives build addition to office. 4 shots in the night from anti-aircraft post across road from basha. Ernie Wilson low from shots.

Thursday, July 22, 1943

  Electric lights put in basha. Captain Derby transferred to Delhi. Went to 151st Med. Bn. with O.C.S. papers - saw beautiful butterflies. Ernie Wilson, Christel, Seipp all sick.

Friday, July 23, 1943

  Ernie Wilson taken to 20th General Hospital. Has dysentery. Received 4 letters and post card from Betts, 1 letter from Mother and Graham. Bader, Forsmark, McFarlane, Streib and I have a poker game.

Saturday, July 24, 1943

  Fire in kitchen and warehouse at Officers Mess at Ledo. All men ran out like at Murfreesboro, Mess Hall saved. Bamboo and palm leaves made very hot fire. Captain C. W. Oatley arrived as Adjutant. McFarlane also goes to hospital with dysentery. Hot and dusty all day. Digboi visit called off for one week Mrs. Johnston sick.

Sunday, July 25, 1943

  Worked all day. On C.Q. at noontime and sat in General Arrowsmith's office. Got postcard showing beach at Harvey Cedars. Went to 20th General to see Clark Gable + Lana Turner in "Somewhere I'll Find You."

Monday, July 26, 1943

  Worked on some naturalization requests. Went to Red Cross for chocolate and doughnuts and stopped in to look at books and found "The Tides of Barnegat." Worked on Day Room.

Tuesday, July 27, 1943

  Worked on court martial record of double murder charge. On C.Q. at noon time in General Arrowsmith's office. Visited 20th Gen. Hospital to see Ernie Wilson, McFarlane, Wertz + Corio. Went to see Claerk Gable in "Somewhere I'll Find You" at 47th Engr. battalion. Bader had pickup truck.

Wednesday, July 28, 1943

  Capt. Swarmer asked information about my commission. Said he would write to Delhi requesting that I be assigned with him. Heavy rain during night. Very welcome.

Thursday, July 29, 1943

  Attempt to bomb American Air Base at Chungking frustrated. Many Jap planes knocked down. Hot and dusty.

Friday, July 30, 1943

  Heavy downpour during night. Almost three vials of water in measuring instrument this morning. Very busy at office on court martial work. Many cases received from Calcutta.

Saturday, July 31, 1943

  Party for the opening of the Headquarters S.O.S., U.S.A.F. in C.B.I., A.P.O. 689. Day Room. Monticello orchestra played; singing pianist, show. Fried chicken and potato salad at 9.30 P.M. 4 cans of beer per man. All the boys, Scott and Green included, brought beer to our basha. Heavy crap game on floor in one corner of Day Room. Soldiers explained to female Red Cross workers a crap game.

Sunday, August 1, 1943

  Made index for court martial case, U.S. vs Norman (Nomi) Lee, (double murder charge) for stenographic record. 8 more cans of beer given out for 2 rupees 8 annas. Went to Church in Ledo Hq. Day Room.

Monday, August 2, 1943

  Received pay this afternoon 158 Rupees 10 annas. March issue of Readers Digest came in today. Heavy rain in early morning and plenty corn pancakes at rec. room.

Tuesday, August 3, 1943

  C.B.I. edition of Yank appears. The first issue. Not as good as the Roundup. Hindustani Standard has item that Hitler sent Mussolini a set of Nietzsche’s philosophy for birthday.

Wednesday, August 4, 1943

  Sent copy of Roundup and Yank to Betty and Graham. Had a pleasant dream last night that I was home in uniform. Rained all day, plenty mud; low misty clouds curling on mountainside.

Thursday, August 5, 1943

  Cow deposited pancake on Day Room carpet. Large poker and crap games in Day Room. Lots of court martial cases. Colonel Leedham transferred to Calcutta, Connie Bourne to Karachi. Lt. Col. Mahoney made Commanding Officer of 48th.

Friday, August 6, 1943

  Adjutant Oatley wrote letter asking my transfer to Judge Advocate Dept. Capt. Swarmer wrote recommendation. More men move into Hq. Co, in tents scattered through area.

Saturday, August 7, 1943

  Met the bearer's brother. Bought two ivory decorated jewel boxes with ivory lions. Went to 48th in weapons carrier with Hardy, Walls and Short. Had supper there with Fallon, Tammany and Powers. Came back in weapons carrier with Boulis and Christel. Stopped at 20th General to see Ernie Wilson. He is plenty sick. Betty writes that she got 10 letters at once. Got letter from George(?).

Sunday, August 8, 1943

  Had morning off. Cleaned out barracks bags and aired overcoat, coat + trousers. Filled the ivory studded boxes with souvenirs to send home. Went to Church. Colonel visited from Delhi and said the soldiers have really transformed the jungle with their resourcefulness.

Monday, August 9, 1943

  Office open for work 8 A.M. to 7 P.M. Very heavy downpours at 10 A.M. Fast moving 6x6 truck killed a (...?) crashed into a motorcycle and corner of a British lorry about 10.30 P.M. Heavy rain in morning. Got a hair cut by an Indian itinerant barber. Streib brought home two large pineapples.

Wednesday, August 11, 1943

  Telephone wires to be put through to Magittang, Burma. Many conferences of high officers. Have a new bearer at the basha. Beckshur has another job. Holland and McFarland back from hospital. Ernie Wilson very sick. Fitzsimmons died in hills in Burma.

Thursday, August 12, 1943

  Pineapple party in basha. Extremely heavy downpour and a violent clap of thunder at night. Ack Ack gunmen on alert.

Friday, August 13, 1943

  Received books of photographs from Betts. Dandies. Joe Bader and Lou Forsmark brought back 20 cans of cold beer from Pardon's refrigerator. Beer was very good, nice and cold.

Saturday, August 14, 1943

  Terrific rains and violent lightning and thunderstorm at 1.20 A.M. Poured for an hour. Fellows talk in their sleep. Stockett from Upper Darby, Pa. works in Adjutany Office also Robert Week from Hackensack, N.J. and Lt. Metzger from Jersey City, N.J. Seipp had command car. Drove us to lunch and back to office. Many conferences - more activity.

Sunday, August 15, 1943

  Went down to 20th General to see "Arsenic and Old Lace." Such a crowd we had to sit back of screen. Many Chinese. Started to rain. We went to Pardons (native contractor) and got cold beer with Bade + Forsmark.

Monday, August 16, 1943

  Steady rain throughout night, War news good from Russia. Next Georgia and Sicily in Hindustani Standard and Buck Sheet. 1st Sgt. Brehman in our basha.

Tuesday, August 17, 1943

  Had a day off. Carl Streib and I went with Holland and Forsmark to 19½ mile mark and helped them survey jungle. Saw green poisonous snake get large black and orange spider.

Wednesday, August 18, 1943

  Tonight was anniversary of 48th. Big dinner and entertainment. War correspondents at Headquarters at 3.30 P.M. General Stilwell and Wheeler expected to call on General Arrowsmith.

Thursday, August 19, 1943

  Congressional committee on trip to view overseas troops rumored to be at Ledo. Mike Poppovich dies from auto injuries at 8.30 P.M. Air raid siren sounded at 9.30 P.M. at headquarters and at Indian antiaircraft battery across road. Antiaircraft guns shoot all along the line from the hills to Margherita bridge.

Friday, August 20, 1943

  Clean up of camp area 5.30 P.M. to 7.00 P.M.

Saturday, August 21, 1943

  22nd Field Hospital and 14th Evac. Hospital now set up at 48th area. Ernie Wilson believed to have had Indian Typhoid fever. Much improved now at 20th General. Basha across from us has a sign painted "The Nest of the Best in C.B.I." The boys put a printed card addition "The Nest of the Best (Bull S) in C.B.I." During the night a cow laid a pancake in the center of their front porch bamboo floor.

Sunday, August 22, 1943

  Double rainbow in sky ⅔ of a complete circle across Eastern sky, purple, blue, green, yellow, orange and purple (beautiful)

Monday, August 23, 1943

  Mailed carved ivory inlaid boxes to Betts and to Graham. Postage 69 cents and 67 cents - 4 rupees 9 annas. Bill Wilson got telegrams - his father dead. Went to Fort Benning in the hills to see "Stage Door Canteen."

Tuesday, August 24, 1943

  Received pipe tobacco and two cartons of cigarettes from Betty yesterday. Heavy rain nearly all day. Pipe tobacco wrapped in waxed paper was enclosed with letters.

Wednesday, August 25, 1943

  All office force were asked concerning their ability to handle a gun. The force will have tommy guns, rifles and .45 pistols. Lots of diarrhea in camp.

Thursday, August 26, 1943

  Had a ride in General Wheeler's automobile, a Plymouth, from office to lunch. Worked on stencil for circular 105 M.C.M. Wrote long opinion on case involving use of a bamboo club as a dangerous instrument.

Friday, August 27, 1943

  Beer party and Lucky Strike cigarettes in basha last night. Received 12 letters, 9 from Betty - more tobacco enclosed in waxed paper. Fairly cool weather.

Saturday, August 28, 1943

  Tommy gun practice for Headquarters office men. Lt. Parkhurst left for Calcutta for a furlough. Jeanie happens to be down there. Many comments on the possible duration of the war. Heavy downpour in the evening. Reading a book called "Rinehard" by Thomas F. Tweed. A story about a President of the U.S. Quite odd, saterical + interesting.

Sunday, August 29, 1943

  Lord Mountbatten in charge of (?) Indian Theater. Powers called for me in a weapons carrier at 3.30. Went to Johnstons for tea + dinner. Saw soccer match. Went to movies at Digboi club and saw "In Which We Serve" by Noel Coward.

Monday, August 30, 1943

  Transferred yesterday to Headquarters S.O.S. U.S.A.F. in C.B.I. Many Chinese troops move up toward front. Much ammuniation unloaded.

Tuesday, August 31, 1943

  Office hours 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Antiaircraft fire and tracer bullets visible to north from basha. Road completed well up into hills. Clearing station at 45 mile mark now. Steel bridge freighted up.

Wednesday, September 1, 1943

  Air raid warning at Indian Ack Ack camp. Cars stopped. Went to 478th Engineers to see "The Big Street" with Fonda and Lucille Ball.

Thursday, September 2, 1943

  Lots more troops arrive by train. Many Chinese soldiers move up. Received pay of 159 Rupees 9 annas. Supply data received for Gaya, Chabua, Ramgarh and Calcutta.

Friday, September 3, 1943

  Laat night saw Mickey Rooney in "A Yank at Eton." Enjoyed it very much on account of knowing the Johnstons. Heavy downpour at quitting time 5.30 P.M. Office force late for supper.

Saturday, September 4, 1943

  Arrived in Bombay, India six moths ago. Time has gone fast at that. Bill James and anti malaria unit attached to Hq. Co. Thielen got radio that he had been made a Warrant Officer. Fleming and Issacson at Hqs. camp. Went to Chinese Restaurant (New World) for supper with Carl Streit. Took walk in Ledo Bazaar after supper to just look around.

Sunday, September 5, 1943

  Beautiful pale pink sunset. Went to Church in Day Room at Headquarters Provisional. Lots of ammunition arrives and is carted up toward the hills. Plenty hot and sultry.

Monday, September 6, 1943

  Terrific downpour at lunchtime. Everybody got wet going to lunch from office. Labor Day but just another day to us. Graham's birthday. Work 8 to 12 - 1 to 5.30 to the minute.

Tuesday, September 7, 1943

  Received two new pennies from Betts and Betts dog tags last evening. Sent a Roundup to Betts and one to Graham. Some magazines came in, Post, Colliers, Cosmopolitan. More troops arrive.

Wednesday, September 8, 1943

  Busy on stencil work. Received two cartons of Camels from John Strain and two packages of walnut pipe tobacco from Betts. Promoted to Sergeant of Headquarters Co. S.O.S. U.S.A.F. in C.B.I.

Thursday, September 9, 1943

  Italy reported to have unconditionally surrendered. Went with Carl Streib to see "The Great Gildersleeve" near Red Cross tents. Saw also Training Film #3. Received package of Phillies cigars from Aunt Jennie.

Friday, September 10, 1943

  Holland had runs all day and night. Cows break into our basha. McFarland got out of bed and chased them out. Bretner slipped on the wet mud and took a flopper, dropped his shaving articles in the bucket of water under the washstand.

Saturday, September 11, 1943

  Received two packages of Prince Albert tobacco from Bertha. The boys in the basha across from us had a jug of home brew made by Williams. Breitner got his (?) back plenty. Steady rain started last night and rained all day. Supposed to be an Indian holiday.

Sunday, September 12, 1943

  Steady rain still keeps up. Place is a sea of slippery mud. Blackout starts tomorrow sunrise to sunset. Ate at Chinese Restaurant "The New World," with Carl Streib and Cole. Albert Bird moves into our basha. Went to Church.

Monday, September 13, 1943

  All bashas blacked out. Day Room is lighted with all windows and doors covered. Meeting at Day Room. Military Courtesy read. Loel steals show about Officers signing book on arrival and then asking the way to P.X. and Red Cross.

Tuesday, November 14, 1943

  Must carry helmets at all times. Gas mask inspection. Air raid trench dug by us ay our basha.

Wednesday, November 15, 1943

  Capt. Swarmer goes to Chabua on a General Court Martial as Law Member. Received 4 packages and two Readers Digest from Betty. Fine Middleton cigars and Walnut tobacco, also lolly pops.

Thursday, November 16, 1943

  Indians shot anti aircraft guns last evening. Received two packages of Walnut pipe tobacco from Betty. Blackout. Moon almost full. Mountain range visible by moon.

Friday, November 17, 1943

  Received two pipes in mail from Graham. Received postal card from Colonel Robert M. Springer, Judge Advocate saying that my application papers had been received and that my professional standing would be investigated. I answered setting forth my transfer to Hq. Co. Base Sec. 3 and promotion to Sergeant.

Saturday, November 18, 1943

  Carl Streib and I ate at Chinese Restaurant, "The New World." Afterwards took a walk through Ledo Bazaar. Watched a native looking through the dirtiest eggs you ever saw. Heard some Indian music in one store.

Sunday, September 19, 1943

  Weather the last few days has been sickening and stifling hot; roads awful dusty. Bretner got some ice from the kitchen to make the beer cold. Saw movie "Air Force" at Headquarters.

Monday, September 20, 1943

  Worked on Special Court Martial record concerning sale + Possession of marijuana. Accused got dishonorable discharge and 2 years. Bought Christmas presents for Betts and home.

Tuesday, September 21, 1943

  Security lecture last night at formation. Bretner got a piece of ice from kitchen so we had several cans of cold beer. Weather is sickening hot and stifling. Played checkers with McFarland.

Wednesday, September 22, 1943

  Heavy anti-aircraft and ack ack gun fire this morning. Capt. Swarmer back from Calcutta. 48th in part moves up to 50 mile mark, others to follow.

Thursday, September 23, 1943

  Bought small ivory animals and other gifts for Christmas. Red alert at 3.10 P.M.; in trenches for an hour. Saw "Seven Days Leave" at Headquarters movie show. Very good Bearer on hand very early it is pay day they are not so dumb.

Friday, September 24, 1943

  Air raid warning at 2.30 P.M. Bretner got some ice so we had cold beers in the basha. Jackals kill several ducks.

Saturday, September 25, 1943

  Received three packages. Rifles issued to all headquarters personnel. One package from Clint Evans, pipe + walnut tobacco; one from Betts, cigars and cigarettes; one from Graham. camera, film and 4 packs of tobacco. Red alert air raid warning at 12.30. Heavy downpour rains, regular jungle rains. Kunming bombed this week. Gets dark at 6.30 P.M. now.

Sunday, September 26, 1943

  The heaviest downpour monsoon rain fell several times. Air raid warning yesterday was real thing. Kunming bombed. Saw several pieces of shrapnel. Movie at Headquarters. Joe E. Brown in "The Daring Young Man."

Monday, September 27, 1943

  Worked on AR 25-20 concerning claims against U.S. A class in rifle instruction held at Headquarters at 4.15 P.M. How to take rifle apart, clean it, etc.

Tuesday, September 28, 1943

  Received small trinkets from Betts for Bryon Johnston. Airplanes fly low over base section. Confetti out back of basha. Mailed Chritmas packages last Saturday. Heavy downpour of rain. Very muddy.

Wednesday, September 29, 1943

  General Court Martial to be appointed of all Colonels. More rain. Trucks speed reduced to 10 miles per hour on Ledo Road. Ties up traffic. Played chess with Carl Strteib in Day Room.

Thursday, September 30, 1943

  Took some picture with box camera. Got Indian typhoid and cholera shots at Hqs. Dispensary. Clear in morning. Pay day 196 Rupees 1 anna. Saw movie "Panama Hattie" at Ledo Hq.

Friday, October 1, 1943

  Walls + Short leave Ledo Station at 4.30 P.M. on their way back to U.S. alomg with Kopfenberg and Schwendenan. I saw them off and took their picture. Clear and warm today.

Saturday, October 2, 1943

  Another clear day. Capt. Swarmer and I move our desks. The band did not show up for the concert last night. Carl Streib, Ed Seipp and I ate at Chinese Restaurant, then browsed through the bazaar. I bought two flower stamped cloths. Bretney got a large piece of ice. All had a cold beer at the basha. Finger nail moon.

Sunday, October 3, 1943

  One soldier killed by dynamite; two drowned. Warm clear day. Received tobacco from Betts in letters also letter from Congressman Wolverton. Saw movie "Mayor of 44th Street" at Chinese camp.

Monday, October 4, 1943

  Fitzgerald made Warrant Officer, ahead of Gene Wagner. Sun is out strong, road plenty dusty. Slow down driving of trucks is broken up by threat of mutiny charge.

Tuesday, October 5, 1943

  Much talk in cots after lights are turned out. World Series pool is started. I have 8 runs for Tuesday, 7 runs for Wednesday's games. Very cool at night. Fine sleeping.

Wednesday, October 6, 1943

  Ernie Wilson returns from hospital after 76 days illness at 20th General. Saw flare in sky over mountains then later an airplane just at dark. Half moon is out.

Thursday, October 7, 1943

  Half day off. Went with Carl Streib to the 48th area to take some pictures. Found Lou Forsmark + Harold Holland. Took snapshot of an elephant. Visited the old fort along river. Movies "Wings for the Eagle."

Friday, October 8, 1943

  Got vaccinated for small pox and a shot for tetanus at 20th General Hospital. Rode down in jeep. Won the baseball pool 4-3. I had 7 for total runs. 10 Rupees received.

Saturday, October 9, 1943

  Had some sugar cane on Thursday. Air raid warning last night at 6.15 Puja Festival continues. Funny looking Ferris Wheel for kids. Carl and I went to Chinese Restaurant then through the bazaar. Saw an Indian running a gambling game played with five die. Three quarter moon. Dark orange sunset all over western sky.

Sunday, October 10, 1943

  Sergeant at Arms for G.C.M. Investigation of charges against Lt. Col. Thomas B. Harper. Went to see "The Falcon Takes Over" at Chinese movies. Clear moonlit night.

Monday, October 11, 1943

  Lt. Col. Harper investigation continued at Hell Gate Sub Depot. Drove up with Capt. Swarmer and Warrant Officer Brideson. Went across Burma border, above the clouds, saw a saw mill, beautiful rainbow.

Tuesday, October 12, 1943

  Felt sore and stiff from long Jeep ride, exactly 100 miles; 50 mile mark reached at Capt. Ludwig's command quarters. Had Smallpox vaccination read by Nurse Miss Heller. Everything O.K.

Wednesday, October 13, 1943

  Real cool, mountain breeze this morning. Anti-aircraft fire. Investigation of Harper charges concluded. Received more tobacco in letters from Betts. General Somervell inspects the Base Sec 3 setup.

Thursday, October 14, 1943

  Had afternoon off. Went for hike up "Signal Hill" with Low, Holland and Carl. Reads(?) at the top and saw the high peaks to the Northeast, the rice fields and camp setup. Stopped in basha of Chinese soldiers. They played a Chinese dawerend(?) and had Sept. American magazine.

Friday, October 15, 1943

  Saw part of Japanese plane. Cholera epidemic. All bazaars off limits. Typed investigation report on Lt. Col. Harper. Capt Swarmer flies to Delhi on business.

Saturday, October 16, 1943

  Got a brand new Woodstock typewriter. Air raid warning at 6.15 P.M. Boys sit on wicker chairs at the slit trenches. Mess hall burned down, discovered fire at 10.45 P.M. Soldiers saved the Day Room by throwing buckets of water on places where palm leaf roof had caught on fire. Baker in mess hall got burned.

Sunday, October 17, 1943

  Breakfast at 6 A.M. at Battery B, 464th A.A. outfit. Mess hall burned to the ground. Picnic lunch near Chinese area. Movies at outdoor place "Broadway" with George Raft.

Monday, October 18, 1943

  Many planes go over. Recog. planes land at strip at mile 7½. Colonel Pick in command at Base Sec 3 this morning. Meals at new mess hall near Chinese.

Tuesday, October 19, 1943

  Made several legal decisions in absence of Capt. Swarmer. Native stabbed to death in Co. A area at Staging area. Saw English picture "Victory in Africa" and "Tuggles of Tahiti."

Wednesday, October 20, 1943

  Bought box of 50 Spensor Indian cigars. Many planes go over escorted by fighters. Put shoes in for salvage, got hunk of soap from Supply Sergeant. Rain in evening, very big agreeable.

Thursday, October 21, 1943

  Report that night planes are transporting troops to China. Had afternoon off; Cleaned out barracks bags. Saw plane identification picture and "Random Harvest" with Greer Garson and Ronald Colman.

Friday, October 22, 1943

  Lovely cool morning. Very heavy rain last night. Jungle noises very loud during night, jackals and monkeys howling. Very cool in the early morning.

Saturday, October 23, 1943

  Clear and cool with lots of sunshine. Still eat meals outdoors putting mess kits on fenders of trucks. Inspecting court martial records and giving advice in absence of Captain Swarmer. Keeting held in Day Room leading to fire prevention and fire safety of bashas. Played chess again with Tyler. New organizations arrive in area, strength 13,000.

Sunday, October 24, 1943

  Earthquake at midnight Saturday. Cot shook and quivered, sides of basha shivered.Italian boy hollered "Joaw," thougt a cow was under his cot. Lasted about 1 minute. Saw "Chisholm Trail."

Monday, October 25, 1943

  Captain Swarmer returned to office this morning. He said my name and Mason's is on list at Delhi to go to Judge Advocate's School. Ration of two bottles of Indian beer, 3 rupees.

Tuesday, October 26, 1943

  "Wait til morning and report him dead" so said Sgt. Seipp to a query on late report of seriously ill patient. Not feeling so hot today all dragged out and very weak. Went to bed at 5.30 and really slept.

Wednesday, October 27, 1943

  Anti aircraft fires at 5.15 P.M. Indians plenty good on the target. Legal library received from Delhi. Good law books. Feeling a little stronger today but still weak.

Thursday, October 28, 1943

  Went to Margherita to Mr. Beach's residence. Saw baby deer in his house. On way back saw lighted candles strewn all around the houses of the natives. Saw "Cowboy in Manhattan" at outdoor movies. Formation held in Day Room at 7 P.M. Articles of War read to the whole outfit. Fire back of our basha. Fire drill held to test ability of Co.

Saturday, October 30, 1943

  4 fellows reported dead on crash of air dropping plane. "Monty" Montesanto of the 251st had day off and got a ride with the air dropping unit. He is reported dead alomg with 3 fellows from the 478th Q.M. Regt. Ate at the Chinese Restaurant - chicken noodle soup, hamburger, eggs, chips and toast. I ate like a horse it was so good to get a change.

Sunday, October 31, 1943

  Wrecked plane with Montesanto on it not found yet. Got off at 3.30 P.M. Went to movies at Bargoli and saw Edward Arnold and Ann Harding in "Eyes in the Night." also (...?) got large package del in a comedy.

Monday, November 1, 1943

  Roads are terribly dusty and bouncy. Large gang of M.P.'s arrive here. Nearly all of 48th move up to 60 mile mark. Got paid 207 R 3 annas.

Tuesday, November 2, 1943

  Gen. Stilwell and Gen. Wheeler go up the road. Went to Bargolia to the movies in command car with Wilson and Streib. Plenty dry, no rain, awful dusty.

Wednesday, November 3, 1943

  Saw movie "The Navy Takes Over" at Chinese area. Still no rain Charred bodies found, also one body had red ruby stoned ring of Monty Montesanto.

Thursday, November 4, 1943

  Had half day off. Fazul Mea charged with stealing 200 rupees from Ernie Wilson's wallet. Had him taken to Indian Police. Next day money recovered. He admitted that he took it.

Friday, November 5, 1943

  Had supper at Chinese Restaurant with Wilson, Holland, Forsmark and Streib. Sergebt of the guard at Headquarters Company. Last night saw "Margin for Error."

Saturday, November 6, 1943

  Carl and I went to Chinese Restaurant for supper - chicken, fried eggs, toast and coffee. We thoroughly enjoyed the meal and walked leisurely back to the basha. Received letter from Betts stating that she received the first package from India on October 20th. Got fine letter from Frysingerv Evans. Saw movie "Across the Pacific."

Sunday, November 7, 1943

  Capt. Swarmer took Lt. Cockran and me on trip to 50 mile mark on the Ledo Road in the office jeep. Left at 8 A.M., back at 4.30 P.M. Had lunch with colored soldiers.

Monday, November 8, 1943

  Went to visit Johnston's at Digboi with Carl Streib and Ernie Wilson in evening in a jeep. Took new (...?) and two small plastic toys for Bryan. Many planes go over. Awful dusty.

Tuesday, November 9, 1943

  New organization command. Heavy fighting between Chinese + Jap soldiers in Northern Burma. Went to movies at Bargoland with Wilson and Bloom in English lorry. Saw "Street of Chance."

Wednesday, November 10, 1943

  (...?) air raid warnings this morning. Ten plane went over shortly thereafter, Bloom fall from ladder. Ernie, Carl and I rode to 20th General Hospital to see Bloom tonight.

Thursday, November 11, 1943

  Half day off. Went to Margherita bazaar with Osborne, Wilson, Forsmark, Streib. Brought Gharka pins and chop sticks. All ate at Chinese Restaurant. Saw fish market and butcher shop.

Friday, November 12, 1943

  Received letter stating my application for commission was disapproved. Wrote to Congressman Wolveston. Sent out 25 V mail Christmas cards. Saw movie last night "Dr. Gillespie Asst." Very foggy in morning.

Saturday, November 13, 1943

  Capt. Swarmer wrote a very fine letter concerning me to Lt. Col. Bert Johnson at Delhi and forwarded my application for a commission file asking reconsideration of my case. The films of the pictures we had taken were developed. Some of the films look very good. Full bright moonlight at night, clear as day. Ate at Chinese Rest.

Sunday, November 14, 1943

  More troops come in. Base about 12,000 now. Bought wrist band for watch. The pictures were printed. Some shots are very good. Earl B. Swarmer promoted to Major, also Captain C. W. Oatley.

Monday, November 15, 1943

  A rat came out of Lt. Metzger's desk so the whole office force got after it with waste paper baskets and typewriter covers. Hamburger for supper; two wandering cows missing.

Tuesday, November 16, 1943

  Bought carved walnut box and silver bracelet for Betts birthday. Drove jeep to finance office. Saw "Pardomn My Sarong" movie at Baragolai. Went in command car with 5 chains.

Wednesday, November 17, 1943

  Mice eat the seat out of Bretney shorts. Joe Bader fell off a motorcycle and hurt his leg. We took him to 20th General Hospital in command car. He had to stay.

Thursday, November 18, 1943

  Afternoon off. Met Mr. Hay. He showed us the Makum Tea Estate and factory. Had tea with him and Mrs. Hay. Dinner at Chinese Restaurant. Hessian cloth put in basha + screens.

Friday, November 19, 1943

  Bader to be operated. All of us went down to see him at the 20th General. Bloom got out of hospital. Major Swarmer received radio placing him on Temporary Duty at Calcutta. He left at 6 A.M. this morning for Chabua.

Saturday, November 20, 1943

  Capt. Southern to divide his time between Chabua and here on judge advocate work. Carl on early shift this week. Bloom, Carl and I ate supper at Chinese Restaurant. Sent Betty a birthday present on Thursday morning. Ernie visited Lt. Stankert at Lekipani hospital.

Sunday, November 21, 1943

  All Christmas cards now sent out. Bretney had a bottle of Imperial brandy last night. Rather cool today and very cloudy. Saw Ice Capades at Q.M. bakery. Went in command car.

Monday, November 22, 1943

  Bretney feeling a big head. What a load he had. Lou Forsmark took care of the gang. Went to Lekipani to see movies but projector wouldn't work. Capt. Southern from Oklahoma, arrived.

Tuesday, November 23, 1943

  Very busy on court martial cases. Lou Forsmark and baby have a date with WACS. Louie drew an assam, dark WAC. Carl and I saw "Jack Ass Mail."

Wednesday, November 24, 1943

  Two air raid alarms at 12.20 P.M. and 11 P.M. Went to Post Office and Ledo Bazaar with Captain Southern. He is from Tulsa, Oklahoma. Went to 20th General to see Bader.

Thursday, November 25, 1943

  Thnksgiving Day. Had a very fine canned turkey dinner. Streib opened a bottle of Huegenot Brandy for a topper offer. Saw "Mrs. Miniver" at Bargolsi.

Friday, November 26, 1943

  Capt. Southern returned to Chabua. Will be back on Monday. Very foggy in morning. Anti aircraft fire at noon by Indian ack acks. Sat around basha and had a big bull session.

Saturday, November 27, 1943

  Plenty foggy this morning. Couldn't see over 100 feet. Mountains completely obscured. Temperature 64° at office at 8 A.M. Walked to work with Carl. Bretney got another box of hard candy from kitchen. Carl and I ate at Chinese Restaurant; he bought chop sticks at bazaar. Ernie put some iodine on a tender place to burn crotch pheasants. It did and him too.

Sunday, November 28, 1943

  Chaplain (Capt.) Hurt died this morning of coronary thrombosis. Carl and I went to Church at Officers Mess Hall. Rained in afternoon and evening. Received movie camera and film. Physical inspection at 6.30 P.M.

Monday, November 29, 1943

  Joe E. Brown reported to be in Chabua. Chinese soldier casualties reported in Northern Burma. Mrs. Kay in motor accident. I had Sergeant of Guard at Hq. Co. all night. Holland on guard 2200 hours to 0200 hours. Slept until noon.

Tuesday, November 30, 1943

  Capt. Southern returns from Chabua. The whole gang went to movies at Harmony Church and saw same picture as on Thurs.

Wednesday, December 1, 1943

  Got paid yesterday 207 Rupees 3 annas. Went to movies at 478th Q.M. Regt. staging area and saw "Magnificent Dope." Went to Chinese Restaurant after the show.

Thursday, December 2, 1943

  Our office is moved to the new building nearer railroad track. Lt. Col. Davis has some new ideas on offices. Went to movies (8 in command car) and saw "Murder in Times Square." Monticello orchestra in Day Room last night.

Friday, December 3, 1943

  Wreck on Margherita bridge between railroad train and three trucks. Many killed. Took pictures at 48th with movie camera. Had afternoon off.

Saturday, December 4, 1943

  Pipe line office has half of the building where J.A.G.D. office is now located. Carl and I had supper at Chinese Restaurant then wandered through bazaar. Paper boy was buying tangerines and I was taking them from him. Our basha has a long rug runner in aisle and matting on floor between cots area. Saw Ruggles Red Boys at Staging.

Sunday, December 5, 1943

  Went to Church. Major Shoemaker, the Chaplain, said "I would rather have my daughter go with an enlisted man than an Officer." Saw "Pride of the Yankees" at Harmony Church area.

Monday, December 6, 1943

  Restricted to the area because of grounds being littered with junk. Calcutta reported bombed. Pipe line office gets under way. Office fitted out for Commanding Officer at Hqs.

Tuesday, December 7, 1943

  Chinese carpenters start building a partition. Capt. Southern returned from Chabua. Monticello orchestra plays in Day Room. Sandwiches and punch. Good time had by all.

Wednesday, December 8, 1943

  Real cool last night. Two (...?) Courier Posts arrived. Basha looks very nice, bearer on the job. Visited stockade and Provost Marshal's Office at Base Sec. 3. Barbed wire enclosure for fence.

Thursday, December 9, 1943

  A door is chopped in the wall at our office. Capt. Southern and I visit the bazaar. Went to see Charles Laughton in "Hunchback of Notre Dame." Albert Bird drops in at 9.30 A.M.

Friday, December 10, 1943

  Breakfast now 6 to 7. Plenty foggy. Had afternoon off. Drove down to Margherita with Holland and Martini to take moving pictures of the river, bridge and bazaar. Gorgeous moonlight night. Air raid warning last night.

Saturday, December 11, 1943

  Air dropping plane reported shot down. Major General Covell arrives at Headquarters. Full golden moon came up out of the East. Sunset was real red behind the palms. Carl and I ate at Chinese Restaurant and then walked through bazaar. Japs increase pressure on Chinese soldiers guarding Ledo Road according to (...?) (...?) Baker.

Sunday, December 12, 1943

  Received Christmas package from Betts and one from home. Also got a money order for $2.50 from Mother + Fathers club of Clementon opened by Mr. Moran. Saw movie "Cairo."

Monday, December 13, 1943

  Air raid at 11.30 A.M. until 12.40 P.M. Heard two explosion sounds. Dinjan Air Field bombed. Wilson and Engineer boys play "Security" joke on Lt. Col. Walker at office.

Tuesday, December 14, 1943

  Captain Southern reports 5 to 7 Jap planes shot down on Dinjan raid. Went to Harmony Church area to see Joe E. Brown. Red Air Raid alert in middle of show. Also saw "Prisoner of Zenda." Drove back in dark.

Wednesday, December 15, 1943

  Key on typewriter broke. Went to salvage warehouses. Formation in Day Room concerning false numbers and slit trenches.

Thursday, December 16, 1943

  Got typewriter taken to repair shop. Saw movie "You Can't Take It With You." Received beautiful Chistmas Card from Mother. Also a fine letter from Gilbert Maledin, Treas. of Dickinson College.

Friday, December 17, 1943

  Had afternoon off. went over to look over new air field landing strip for Ledo Base. Many visitors in basha tonight. We get plenty magazines to read.

Saturday, December 18, 1943

  Received subscription to Time Magazone from Betts. Received Camden Courier and a notice of subscription to Time Magazine by Betts for me. Work on legal opinion for hiring Indian labor and payment of wages above the minimum. LeCouste gets back from Calcutta. Orchestra in Day Room. (...?) (...?) Little Chick Bretney sleeps in Cassidy's bed; Forsmark urinates on Holland's bed by mistake.

Sunday, December 19, 1943

  Went to Church with Carl and heard sermon on possibility of religious war. Went to movies to see "Cairo" at Baragolai. Plenty cold sitting outdoors.

Monday, December 20, 1943

  Several shooting stars. Many planes go over at night to Burma. Bretney still on the Carew gin, planty talkative. All the boys stay around basha. Col. Mac Isaac back from Kunming.

Tuesday, December 21, 1943

  Many planes go over to Burma. Weather very pleasant from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. Received a half pound of Prince Albert from Betty. Saw "Holiday Inn" at Harmony Church.

Wednesday, December 22, 1943

  Carl gets promoted to Tech Sgt & Cristel to T4. Sgt. Ennis goes haywire before Major Crystal and gets locked up. Rode the truck bus to Staging Area to see Alex Rag Time Band.

Thursday, December 23, 1943

  Informed that Hq. Mess Hall will have plates and all implimets; no more mess kits. Captain Southern stopped at Hq. Co. to tell me about moving our office next to Inspector.

Friday, December 24, 1943

  Received a fruit cake from Mrs. Thomas at noon time. Got a package from Betty and Getsingers at 7 P.M. Opened 4 packages at 8.30. Had two Krenglso beer, salted peanuts and fruit cake. Show in Day Room. Went to bed at 11.

Saturday, December 25, 1943

  J.A.G.D. office moved to office next to M.P.'s. Received 2 Christmas cards and 4 letters from Betty and a letter from home at 4.30 P.M. Had a very fine dinner at Hq. Co. at 5.30. Ernie Wilson and I went to Digboi in command car. I took four presents for the Johnston children sent by Betty.

Sunday, December 26, 1943

  Received a Christmas card with $1.00 enclosed from O. Ens. of Laurel Springs. Went to Harmony Church area to see Alex Rag Time Band and rode in slop truck. Attended church on Xmas and today.

Monday, December 27, 1943

  A dead rat was on the blotter of the deck this morning, some Jap prisoners taken and put under guard. Mess kits used instead of agate plates.

Tuesday, December 28, 1943

  Conference in Day Room at 7 P.M. Could not go to movie show. Basha 17 has latrine duty and (...?) a lot of fun out of it. Rains for a change; weather cold.

Wednesday, December 29, 1943

  Had Sergeant of the Guard all last night. Had to go after one of the guards on the 10 to 2 shift. Rained rather hard at 7 P.M. Plenty busy in the office on court martial work.

Thursday, December 30, 1943

  Cold, dreary, cloudy and raining all day. Ernie received the trinkets from his Mother to trade with natives. Went to Baragoli movies and saw "Spitfire." Went to bed at 8.15.

Friday, December 31, 1943

  Got a stove at Namdang. Worked all day. Quarter moon appears overhead. Solomon Loel gets out of stockade. Had a shot of brandy and one beer for New Years Eve. Camp all pleasant. Got paid 207R/3.

Saturday, January 1, 1944

  Solomon Loel released from stockade and assigned to work with M.P.'s. Trying to get parts for stove, got an elbow made out of 2 tin cans. Went down to 48th to take pictures over again. Movie camera working O.K. Went down with Holland, Forsmark + Martin in command car; met them at butchery, coming back. McFarland sang early in morning. Bretney poured in (...?).

Sunday January 2, 1944

  Went to Church at Officers Mess Hall. Many planes fly over. Went to movies at Harmony Church and saw "Westerner." Tanks arrive and go up the road. Ledo Road to be closed tomorrow.

Monday January 3, 1944

  MacFarland has big bundle of wash for the bearer. Sgt. Rowan showed me a Masonic ring he wears. He joined at Karachi, India. Cassidy brings colored paper decorations for the basha. Pretty moon.

Tuesday January 4, 1944

  Plenty legal business and questions. Capt. Southern did not come up from Chabua today. Went to movies in command car and saw "The Sky is the Limit." I thought of my last good bye.

Wednesday January 5, 1944

  Working on murder case looks like self defense to me. Radio received asking for list of soldiers arriving here prior to June 30, 1942. Went on range at 4 P.M. with Carl, Very good.

Thursday January 6, 1944

  Capt. Southern called from Chabua. Had afternoon off. Carl and I went with Holland to Bhura Ohnig river; walked along river bank to Margherita. Bought brass gifts saw "Crystal Call."

Friday January 7, 1944

  Many heavy airplanes go over led by fighters. Received package from home. Sun now appears to be higher in the sky. Moon very bright at night almost directly over head.

Saturday January 8, 1944

  Bacon and raisins for breakfast. Many complaints from the boys. Cooks over slept, I guess. Time magazine has 3 page article on Greer Garson. Carl And I visited the airplane landing field near Hqs. Company. Trucks run all night with gravel for the strips. Fresh meat for supper a cow got killed I guess. Listened to "Hello India" program from U.S. at 7 P.M. at Hq. Day Room.

Sunday January 9, 1944

  Indian novelties put on sale at P.X. All sold out by noontime. I got several brass articles. Received a beautiful Birthday card from Betty. Saw "Yankee Doodle Dandy." Full moon.

Monday January 10, 1944

  Worked with Capt. Southern on charges against Ben Smith, alleged murder manslaughter or self defense. Carl and I went down to the 73rd Hosp to see Christel who had been operated.

Tuesday January 11, 1944

  Listened to General Court Martial trial of Laval E. Hemphill on charge of murder. Worked from 6.15 to 8.15 P.M. at office. Missed the movie "Northwest Ranger." Many new outfits.

Wednesday January 12, 1944

  Lots of planes go over and many troops, Chinese and English move up. Many Chinese troops on Road up ahead. Received letter from War Department requesting return of my commission application.

Thursday January 13, 1944

  Sent letter to Delhi to forward my commission papers to Washington Inspector General, Major Johnson at Hq. Co. Cooks all in white uniform. Saw "When Johnnie Comes Marching Home."

Friday January 14, 1944

  Made two photo frames out of bamboo. Received pack of Prince Albert from Evie and Christmas package from Betts containing ginger cakes and presents for Brion. Carl got Xmas card from Betts. Gang liked the ginger cakes.

Saturday January 15, 1944

  Heavy rain during night. Trucks put on chains. Ernie and Carl got some shots. Holland went down to laundry to take a bath. Many trucks work night and day, hauling gravel for air field strips. Mr. Lamont and Lt. Colonel Walker of British Army asked my advice on preparation of court charges against Captain Jones, C.R.E. (British).

Sunday January 16, 1944

  My birthday, the first on foreign soil. English Infantry to come up. Two English (...?) and two generals in territory; Gens. Covell + Hearn. Betts gave me a beautiful picture of her in a handsome leather case. Saw "Idaho."

Monday January 17, 1944

  Guns and helmets to be carried at all times. Blackout of bashas enforced again. More troops come in. Made bamboo picture frames. Steady rain tonight; rather damp and cool.

Tuesday January 18, 1944

  Dug some coal out of the mountain side for our office stove. Again visited by English Officers for legal help on Court Martial case against Capt. Jones, C.R.E. Saw "Secret Enemies" at movies. Got 5 again from Betty.

Wednesday January 19, 1944

  Cpl. Zavier to take Pvt. Johnson to Calcutta for trial. Fresh meat cakes for supper, another cow evidently killed. Plenty chilly last night and early this morning. Sgt. Seymour reposted missing - on air drop.

Thursday January 20, 1944

  Ate lunch at Chinese Restaurant; usual menu, went with Carl. Visited the bazaar and saw some Bhutan or Naga men who looked feminine in appearance. Saw "Old Cheyenne."

Friday January 21, 1944

  English commandos reported to be in area below Lekipani. Capt. Kirk has argument with Chinese restaurant owner over high prices charged. Formation in Day Room. Dental exam and A.W. pictures.

Saturday January 22, 1944

  A second Christmas Day. 15 freight car loads of mail arrive; 3000 bags of Christmas packages. I received package from Betty (shelled nuts), Aunt Florence and Uncle Charlie, Aunt Laura and Swerlides. Mail call at 9 P.M. I got packages all over the place. Ernie Wilson got several packages, about 50 Hershey bars. Mail men work all night. Our latrine condemmed, too many maggots.

Sunday January 23, 1944

  At noon received packages from Aunt Marie, Betty (colored film), home (cakes + candy) and John Strand at 5 P.M. from Doc Davis and Bill Lafferty. Received handkerchief from Esther and Birthday card from Mother. Saw "Who Does It" at Harmony Church movies.

Monday January 24, 1944

  Planes land on new airport near us. Injured and combat troops brought down. Sent a ruby and 2 sapphires to Betts, 1 ruby home. Took Xmas presents to Johnston boys at Digboi, with Harold Holland.

Tuesday January 25, 1944

  Rainy, muddy day. 3 (...?) prisoners of war brought down to stockade. Went to see "Rhythm of the Islands" and picture on (...?). Got soaked in seat of pants. Opened Aunt Marie's horses dovers for the boys after movies.

Wednesday January 26, 1944

  Generator being repaired using candles for light. Dried steak cooked over candle light in a mess kit. Holland got a loaf of bread.

Thursday January 27, 1944

  Holland and Forsmark get Christmas packages. Louie got 4 cakes of ivory soap, no eats. Plenty rain and mud. Went to movies saw "Bandit Ranger." Ate the Lorna Doones.

Friday January 28, 1944

  Rained again today plenty mud. Went down to 48th to see Fallon and Tammany they are surgical technicians now at Tincha (60 mile mark). They told of operations performed.

Saturday January 29, 1944

  Cloudy but only light rain today. Ride on (...?) of command car from office to the basha. Truck nearly hit us. Sergeant of the guard tonight. Ernie kept me company for a couple hours. 6 carloads of Christmas packages arrived. I received 2 from Betts including paper hats from Howard. Sgt. LeCourts brought them to me.

Sunday January 30, 1944

  Rain and more mud. Saw Capt. Melvyn Douglas at Buragolai. Very good orchestra The Swing Pilots from Karachi. Also saw movie "Pittsburg." Carl worked until 9 P.M. at office.

Monday January 31, 1944

  More rain and more mud. Shoes of everybody are soaked. Got paid 207 Rupees 3 annas. Gang sat around basha reading and writing. Latrine still closed, too many maggots.

Tuesday February 1, 1944

  Bought Indian and Burmese dolls at P.X. also brass cups. Terrific crowd. More rain and mud is now soupy. Went to see "The Fallen Sparrow" at Harmony Church. Red air raid alert at 11 A.M. Air raid at Ching buh whang. When siren blew fellows ran out of Chinese Restaurant without paying. Got package of salt water taffies from Judge Burling.

Thursday February 3, 1944

  Sun is out bright in A.M. Air raid alert at 11 A.M. Had afternoon off. Went to see Ledo Air Field and saw hospital planes come in with battle injured Chinese. Saw movie "We Can't Be Licked."

Friday February 4, 1944

  More rain and mud. Received letter from Major Swarmer stating he forwarded my file from Calcutta. Planes bring in more injured Chinese.

Saturday February 5, 1944

  File arrived from Major Swarmer. Went to hospital for appointment for medical examination for O.C.S. More rain and mud. All of us were in basha and heard plane go over basha very low. Holland, Forsmark, Bader and I ran out and saw the plane crash into the mountainside and explode and burn. We saw white powder flashes two hours afterward - foggy.

Sunday February 6, 1944

  Three men killed + pilot is alive but badly battered in plane crash. Left office at 4 P.M. to take bath. Kicked football around back of basha. Saw "Nice Girl" at Harmony Church movies.

Monday February 7, 1944

  Went to 20th General for physical examination. Finished about 3.30 P.M., came back on Ledo Road Bus. May men and horses pass the basha at 3 A.M. in the night on way up.

Tuesday February 8, 1944

  Three Japanese reported seen in vicinity of Lekipani. Capt. Kirk M.P. questioned an Indian native. Saw "Bachelor Mother." More American troops and horses move toward the front.

Wednesday February 9, 1944

  Got Xray of chest at 73rd Evac Hospital for O.C.S. application. Went with Carl to visit Crystal at 73rd. Many foot troops and horses pass the basha on way up.

Thursday February 10, 1944

  Many planes go over. Sun came out in good shape today and dried up the mud. Formation in Day Room at 7 P.M. Lights went out at 8 P.M. so we went to bed.

Friday February 11, 1944

  Captain Southern not feeling very well. Sent Betty a home made Birthday card. Fellows throw the football around. Truck went through bridge railing injuring 8 and killing one.

Saturday February 12, 1944

  Beautiful sunshiny day. Truck went through bridge rail, killing one and wounding several. Truck overturned near Digboi killing one soldier. Many planes fly over. Two cub planes crash in air near Lekapani. Received beautiful Valentine card from Betty. Also one from Mrs. Pratt. Beautiful moon appears around 8.30.

Sunday February 13, 1944

  Captain Southern requests a promotion for me. Warm sunshiny day. Holland has sore throat so we really fixed him up with Vicks, blankets and cough drops. Went to see "Anthony Adverse." Machine broke down.

Monday February 14, 1944

  Capt. Southern went to 20th General Hospital clinic. Kicked football around back of basha in the evening. Nurse has baby well on the way. Beautiful day, just like early June at home.

Tuesday February 15, 1944

  Visited Captain Southern at 20th General Hospital. He may have intestinal flu. He turned the jeep over to me and gave me the "green light" on Court Martial work. Saw "Saboteur" at movies.

Wednesday February 16, 1944

  Made out two Powers of Attorney. Holland and Ernie Wilson went to Dibrugahr for trial of Fazul Mea. Beautiful day. Ernie and I took Holland to 20th General Hospital. He has tonsilitis.

Thursday February 17, 1944

  Visited Capt. Southern and Holland at the hospital. Got my medical examination report at 20th General. Mailed my commission application file to Judge Advocate Generals office direct. Saw Short Subjects at movies. G.I. pictures on Germany and Japan. Worked on selection of members for the General Court Martial. Received Xmas package containing "Horse Head" soap from Betts. Weather is getting much warmer.

Saturday February 19, 1944

  Ernie had a nice box made for me to send things home. Barton drew a picture of "Sad Sack" on the lid of the box and printed the addresses in India ink. A beautiful sunshiny day. Very busy with legal advice on divorce and allotments to straying wives of enlisted men. Heard that Major Swarmer had been transferred. Capt. Southern left the hospital. I got him in the J.A.G.D. jeep.

Sunday February 20, 1944

  Had the afternoon off. Holland got out of hospital. He drove me to the post office to mail the "Sad Sack" box. Went to movies and saw "THe Amazing Mr. Williams."

Monday February 21, 1944

  This evening just felt like a Spring day. Holland and I walked through native quarters across the road going to the bazaar. I bought an Indian pipe, some envelopes and cigars.

Tuesday February 22, 1944

  Received a letter from Judge Albert "Pete" Busling. Finished reading "The Curious Bride" sent me by Mary Dickinson. Saw "Man Hunt" at movies.

Wednesday February 23, 1944

  Had a special legal problem in California and Arizona divorce and marriage at Red Cross. Major Oatley + Capt. Cochran there. Played basketball on court at Chinese camp.

Thursday February 24, 1944

  Received letter from Powell Quicksall. Had afternoon off. Carl and I went down to Margherita bazaar. I bought 5 more stones. Beautiful warm day.

Friday February 25, 1944

  Received 9 letters. Saw "Short Subjects" at movies. Reading "P.S. As I Knew Him" the book sent me by Isabelle Entrikin. Very good and different. Gang sat around basha discussing the War situation and the world's problems in general.

Saturday February 26, 1944

  A very heavy rain at noon time. Seemed like a junior monsoon. Cut stencils for a new power of attorney form to comply with Circular #217 of War Department. Carl and I ate at Chinese Restaurant. Afterwards we visited the bazaar. The place was a sea of mud. I bought a small elephant bell. Heated discussion on after the war problems.

Sunday February 27, 1944

  Two air dropping planes bring in wounded Chinese soldiers at the air strip. Smilin' Jacks Gravy Train came in later. Two fighter bombers were forced down around 5.15 and landed O.K.

Monday February 28, 1944

  A native supposed to be a spy, was shot at and hit at Staging area by guard but escaped in jungle. Sun is plenty hot during the mid day. Was Sergeant of the Guard from 6.00 P.M. to 6 A.M. Tuesday.

Tuesday February 29, 1944

  Very foggy when I came off guard duty. Mosquitos were bad, like dive bombers during last night. Got paid 207 Rupees 3 annas. Hot, clear, dusty day. Slight breeze from South. Saw "All This and Heaven Too" at movies.

Wednesday March 1, 1944

  Promoted to S/Sgt. T/3. Air raid at 12 noon. Many planes go over. Capt. Southern returned from Chabua in the afternoon. Plenty of work.

Thursday March 2, 1944

  Beautiful, warm sunshiny days - like summer back home. Air raid at 10.15 A.M. Lt. Col. Fairbrothers told Capt. Southern and me that the slit trench we used were for the Q.M. office only. Saw "Little Old New York."

Friday March 3, 1944

  Beautiful, summer like day, but plenty of dust. Many planes of all kinds flying over the "Hump." Holland and I went down to the Base Laundry for a shower.

Saturday March 4, 1944

  Another warm, summery day with plenty of dust. Our back porch addition is finished. Mailed money orders for Easter flowers. Got my hair cut by Indian barber. Tammany and Fallon visit us. We have an anti malaria bomb for use in the basha. Ossie Osborne loaned me a camera to use with the colored film. Carl and I drank a can of beer.

Sunday March 5, 1944

  Herman (NMI) Perry supposed to have shot and killed 1st Lt. Cady last night. Plenty of work in Judge Advocate Office. 14 of us piled in weapons carrier to see movie "Whistling in Brooklyn."

Monday March 6, 1944

  A A practice firing this morning. Murderer still at large. Colored boy who killed Lt. Cady still at large. Supposed to have gone into jungle above 19 mile mark.

Tuesday March 7, 1944

  Reading Burma Surgeon. Lord Louis Mountbatten to be here today. Postponed. He is in 20th General due to getting hit in the eye by a piece of bamboo. Saw "My Kingdom for a Cook."

Wednesday March 8, 1944

  1000 rupees offered for Herman (NMI) Perry to Naga Chieftains, dead or alive. Tammany in hospital with F.O.U. Carl and I had some orange blossoms. Finished Burma Surgeon.

Thursday March 9, 1944

  All Officers excited about having their jeeps taken away. Gasoline shortage apparent. Capt. Southern going back to Chabua tomorrow. Office very busy. Saw "Behind the Rising Sun" at movies.

Friday March 10, 1944

  Weather much warmer. Plenty dust and very dry. Had afternoon off and went to Margherita bazaar. Saw a beautiful star sapphire. Krishna Puja celebration. Clothes and faces of participants all full of colored paints.

Saturday March 11, 1944

  Took pictures at Margherita and Ledo Bazaar. Got picture of Ledo policeman. Ordered a star ruby to be brought from Dibrugahr jeweler. Carl and I had dinner at Chinese Restaurant. He bought a ruby and a sapphire from our jeweler. Saw a native being led home by his wife; he had too much Puga. Discussion on India and soldier (...?).

Sunday March 12, 1944

  Went with Holland to the Bhurada Hing river to see the Nagas crossing the river. Took 22 picture with Osborne's 35MM camera. Saw "Ladies Day."

Monday March 13, 1944

  Saw General Stilwell at our mess hall. Cook said "help yourself." Ordered cake pan through the General who gave the order to Colonel Pick. Warm summer like day. Censorship case and sodomy case are very weak.

Tuesday March 14, 1944

  Manhunt starts for Herman (NMI) Perry. M.P.'s sent to Shanti, Deolali and Calcutta. Lt. Dave Smith goes to Calcutta. Heavy rain during early morning. Saw "Stand By for Action."

Wednesday March 15, 1944

  Thunder and lightning storm in early morning. Argument with Lt. Frank about sodomy case. Air raid at 8 A.M. on way to work. Got in slit trench at Signal Corps. Sodenberg works signed.

Thursday March 16, 1944

  Colonel Pick announced as now being Brigadier General Pick. Paulette Goddard complains about rats and mice in the bashas at 73rd Evac (now 48th). Lt. Col. Davis lets her have his quarters.

Friday March 17, 1944

  Walked 2 miles from movies last night. Saw Paulette Goddard troup - Goggion, Wynne and accordionist at Harmony Church. Heavy downpour during the day time.

Saturday March 18, 1944

  Boys and Paulette's bearer to let them put their hands in her drawers on the line near Hqs. Office so that they could write home about it. LaCorista has his picture taken with Paulette at 20th General. Bought ivory animals and brass ornaments at P.X. Big discussion with MacFarland concerning the Senator Allan Barkley speech of resignation.

Sunday March 19, 1944

  Poured rain during night. Many new faces appear as casuals at our camp. Planes and ambulances keep busy flying and driving past near basha. Saw movie "Without A Doubt."

Monday March 20, 1944

  Lt. Dave Smith radios from Calcutta; has arrived there on manhunt for Herman (NMI) Perry. Reading book "P.S. As I Knew Him." Poured rain during night. Movie held on old Chinese camp lot nearby.

Tuesday March 21, 1944

  Beautiful Spring morning - warm sun everybody up early in basha #17. Went with Louie Forsmark and Howard Bloom to the movies to see "Louis Pasteur." Rode home in an ambulance with 151st Med. Bn, driver. Rains have again put in an appearance. Good reports from infantry at Walumbum. Casualties are flown in at field near us.

Thursday March 23, 1944

  Orders transferring Capt. Southern to Base Section 3 are received. Capt. Southern returned after being away 10 days. Saw "Mr. Lucky" at movies. Got wet in a downpour.

Friday March 24, 1944

  Received 10 letters last night. Very busy at office - 97 in Stockade. Hq. Co. plays 48th in basketball. Jap patrols heard to be near Manipore. Said to be a token raid on India. Bader moved to 48th on Thursday.

Saturday March 25, 1944

  Rained hard all night and during the morning. Plenty mud. Carl and I ate at Chinese Restaurant then went through the bazaar. Yellow colored limes appear. Japs reported in Chin Hills and only 7 miles from Imphal on the Tiddam-Manipur Road. English claim all is satisfactory.

Sunday March 26, 1944

  Reports still very satisfactory at Manipur. Capt. Southern went back to Chabua yesterday to close out the office. Had afternoon off - took walk with Cassidy. Saw "Princess Rourke."

Monday March 27, 1944

  Air braid at 10.30 until 11.55. We could hear the planes diving and the gun reports from toward Lekapani. Plenty excitement. Reports are U.S. got 8 out 9 and 12 out of 20 planes. Very good.

Tuesday March 28, 1944

  Air raid at 10 A.M. 4 planes come over very high as we went out to slit trenches. Proved to be American. Saw "Johnny Apollo" at movies. Edward Arnold + Tyrone Power.

Wednesday March 29, 1944

  Very busy at office. Sent off letter to Dependence Benefit Office about allotment. Hqs. Co. beat 48th Evac in basketball 24-17. Lt. Col. Meister and Mrs. Dystra return.

Thursday March 30, 1944

  Rainy, gloomy, cloudy day. Small anti-aircraft fire in early afternoon. Plenty noise all over. Medical inspection in Day Room. Sw "You Can't Escape Forever."

Friday March 31, 1944

  Very busy office, 9 General Court Marshalls pending. A Colonel blew up in the air over a recommendation of a Court Martial by General Court. Captain Southern held his ground.

Saturday April 1, 1944

  Rainy in the morning. We are issued boots after 1 year in the India mud. Carl and I ate at the Chinese Restaurant, Lt. Col. Davis given Legion of Merit medal and two colored boys (Privates) given the Purple Heart. The Privates got their award for injuries received in bombing of Calcutta. Colored orchestra in Day Room at night.

Sunday April 2, 1944

  Still very busy at the office. Many Court Martial cases. 525 recorded to date by me since May of 1943. Bought some magazines at P.X. Saw Sonia Henie in "Wintertime" at movies.

Monday April 3, 1944

  Received a letter dated Jan 20th from Betts. Two cans of Waterman's ink received yesterday; also a roll of film from Graham. Large plane lands after dark; contained General Stilwell.

Tuesday April 4, 1944

  Japs 32 miles Northeast of Imphal. Trips to Shillong cancelled. English say Imphal was by passed. Went to movies saw "Wintertime" about 30 in truck coming back. Heavy rain.

Wednesday April 5, 1944

  Tanks and Chinese soldiers rushed past headed for Manipur. Lord Louis Mountbatten arrived at airstrip at 6.05 P.M. Saw him in back of automobile headed to Headquarters.

Thursday April 6, 1944

  Lord Louis Mountbatten made a speech to all the men of Headquarters. He said that there will be a battle and that the railroad may be cut. Saw "Claudia" at movies. Rain.

Friday April 7, 1944

  Beautiful sunshiny morning. Many Chinese soldiers go down the Road in convoy. Many tanks also taken down. Had afternoon off. Bought a star sapphire at Ledo Bazaar with Ernie.

Saturday April 8, 1944

  Japs headed toward Kohima and spreading west toward Jorhat. It is believed they intend to cut the Bengal and Assam Railroad - our rail supply line. Carl and I ate at the Chinese Restaurant then went through the Ledo Bazaar. Mail is not coming through very well. Mailed a box of ivory carved animals and brass articles to Graham.

Sunday April 9, 1944

  Easter Sunday - did not get to Church - busy in the office. Beautiful sunshiny day in the afternoon. Full moon at night. Saw "Corvette K225" at Harmony Church.

Monday April 10, 1944

  Went with Wilson to the 48th Evac Hospital to see the boys who came back from Ramgahr. Lipschutz took spool of film out of camera for me. Went by bus. Got back at 10.45.

Tuesday April 11, 1944

  Russians reported to have taken Odessa. Situation at Kohima and in India (Manipur) reported to be a lot better. No rain for the past 24 hours. Evenings are very pleasant.

Wednesday April 12, 1944

  Censor uncovered an officer who was using the "Magic13" code in a Vmail letter. Gun inspection day. Holland on guard. Played checkers with Cassidy. Heavy winds at night.

Thursday April 13, 1944

  Another nurse got married - more A.W. 104 letters. Beer ration (9) cans and 1 lb. of Whitmans chocolates. Another robbery attempt in Hq. Co. area. Robber claimed to be a Chinese.

Friday April 14, 1944

  Had afternoon off. Took movies of Ledo bazaar, Margherita bazaar and Bhura da hing river. Bearer calls Cassidy a pet name. Pay day for Ali Alimin. Mac at Shing bwe yang.

Saturday April 15, 1944

  Took movie film to Base Censor. Rained all nigt last night but stopped in morning. Air raid red alert at 10.10 A.M. Carl and I ate at Chinese Restaurant then went through bazaar. Many shanties are closed but - they must have the bazaar. Carl, Bill, Louie and I played checkers in basha. Holland has a headache.

Sunday April 16, 1944

  Rained all night last night and nearly all forenoon. Sun came out in early afternoon. Went to movie in Engineer jeep to see Charles Laughton in "The Man From Down Under." We saw flickering stars to the East.

Monday April 17, 1944

  Received 11 rolls of movie film yesterday and today. Signed payroll - took 20 minutes - big crowd of men at Hq. Co. Regular summer day. Took cold shower.

Tuesday April 18, 1944

  Beautiful warm morning. Everybody up by 6.35. Ali Alimin here at 7 A.M. Very hot today, summer heat. Guard increased to 15 men per night. Checkers playing in basha. Stars very bright.

Wednesday April 19, 1944

  Colonel C. C. Fenn, Theater Judge Advocate, visited here. I had a ride in carryall next to British Brig. Gen. on the front seat. Mailed Mother Day card to Mother. Mailed more film thru base censor.

Thursday April 20, 1944

  Another warm day, Received package from Red Cross - candy, cigarettes and cards. Went to a forum meeting at Day Room and heard all about the Burma campaign. Cassidy leans through our porch railing. Had afternoon off. Took picture of Cassidy, hibiscus tree, spider plants, newspaper walla. Basketball game at Hqs. with colored outfit and Bretney.

Saturday April 22, 1944

  A very hot day. Plenty of dust on the road. Basketball game at Hq. Co. - played 502nd M.P. Battalion. Game went one extra period. Hqs. won 22-18. Holland, Streib, Forsmark, Lear and I played hearts. Holland gave me the Queen of Spades about 7 times. Carl reached 119 first. Cassidy caught a dog in our basha and put it outside about 11 P.M.

Sunday April 23, 1944

  Another hot day and night. Ali Alimin visited his brother at Digboi. Road awful dusty. Officers had quite a party last night from all accounts. Received letter from Bob Davey in response to my sympathy letter to him.

Monday April 24, 1944

  Weather very hot. Bob MacFarland returns from Shing bwi yawng. Saw many dead Japs at Shadazup. The smell was terrible. Bodies left being all around.

Tuesday April 25, 1944

  Saw "Madame Curie" at movies at Squab Hollow last night. Saw "DuBarry was a Lady" tonight at Harmony Church. Another very hot day. Sent Mother's Day Card to Mother.

Wednesday April 26, 1944

  Heavy rain at 10.30 A.M. Cooled things off a little bit. Manipur Kohima situation seems to be under control. Immune from smallpox. Saw "In Old Oklahoma." Bretney left yesterday for Shing.

Thursday April 27, 1944

  Meeting of the forum held in Day Room at Headquarters. Mr. Coburn and Englishman from Mysore, India was the speaker.

Friday April 28, 1944

  Rain during the morning. MacFarland, Forsmark, Carl and I saw "Destroyer" at Squabs Roost outdoor movie. Took pictures of Chinese Restaurant, temple and bazaar with movie camera.

Saturday April 29, 1944

  Rain and heavy clouds in the evening prevented us from going to the movies to see "Hi Ya Sailor." Weather is plenty hot and all the fellows feel dragged out. A feelow by the name of Letterer moves into the basha in place of Bretney. Received box of Camels from Betty. Read April 10th Time Magazine reeived today.

Sunday, April 30, 1944

  Heavy rain during night and again this morning. Plenty mud. Physical inspection at 6.30 P.M. Got paid Rupees 277 annas 9. No Sunday movies scheduled anywhere on Base. 12 planes, believed to be British flew low over our office and headquarters headed for Burma. Louie plays solitaire at 7 P.M. as I write this note. Ali Alimin cleaned up all the stuff under my bed. Everything is placed differently from where I had it.

Unfortunately a portion of the diary for the period May 1, 1944 to December 31, 1944 is missing

 Monday January 1, 1945
  Dinner from 5 to 6:30. Roast beef (shin meat) and soggy sweet potatoes and filling. Saw "Barbery Coast Gent" at movies.

 Tuesday, January 2, 1945   Sat around basha at night talking. Had first cake and coffee. Capt. Frank went to Calcutta for refreshments for the General.

 Wednesday, January 3, 1945   Thunder, lightning, rain and hail stones. Coolsed(?) the ranched(?) goods - sausages and frankfurters - also had ham and tongue paste and hot coffee.

 Thursday, January 4, 1945   Played poker in the basha. Capt. Kirk given $125.00 fine for getting married.

 Friday, January 5, 1945   Cleaned up around basha for inspection. Used the Sportsman soap at the shower bath. Saw "San Diego, I Love You."

 Saturday, January 6, 1945   Received package of burnt almonds from Aunt Mary. Had good poker game in basha. Ate pretzels and coated almonds.

 Sunday, January 7, 1945   Saw basketball game under floodlights at our camp. Received big Xmas package from Marie Dickinson and Marie Boyle. Had chicken soup made with dehydrated noodles etc. Very good. Awfully cold at night. Ali Alimin took our cat away yesterday morning.

 Monday, January 8, 1945   Very cold during the night and in the morning. We can see the snow on the mountain from our office window. Saw the World Premier of "Saratoga Trunk." A very, very excellent picture. When we came back from the movies our cat was in the basha. All the fellows were glad to see it. I gave the sardines which Betty sent me for the cat to the cat.

 Tuesday, January 9, 1945   Was N.C.O. of the Day. Guards now guard Hqs. offices. Played cards in the basha. Very cold at night - the coldest I have felt in India. Received pkg from home.

 Wednesday, January 10, 1945   Gang of fellows from 330th are leaving for home on rotation tomorrow. Saw Joan Davis in "Kitty from Kansas City."

Thursday, January 11, 1945

  Liota gets orders to go home. Balance of 45th Engr. Regt. go home on rotation. Not so cold.

Friday, January 12, 1945

  Received 4 packages Betty, home, Mrs. Wills and Ed Olson. Gen. Sultan at Ledo, Ledo Road declared finished. Convoy leaves for Chungking, China. Big ceremony at Mile 0. Beautiful red sunset. Had minced ham on melba toast sandwiches and basha cooled beer, also potato sticks. Really U.S. hor doeuvres.

Saturday, January 13, 1945

  Card game in basha. Pretzels, peanuts and beer for refreshments.

Sunday, January 14, 1945

  Sat around the oil stove in the basha. Nice and warm in afternoon.

Monday, January 15, 1945

  Received beautiful Birthday card from Betts, also 3 packages from Thomaso's, Roy Pratts and Bill Lafferty. Saw "When Hearts Were Young and Gay."

Tuesday, January 16, 1945

  Received four packages on my Birthday. Two Xmas boxes from Uncle Charlie and Aunt Florence, 1 from Getsingers(?) and one from Betts. That makes 27 packages in all.

Wednesday, January 17, 1945

  Received big package from Charlie and Mrs. Hoffman. Saw "Babes on Swing Street." Coffee and fruit cake (Mrs. Thomas).

Thursday, January 18, 1945

  Had card game in Basha. Beer and pretzel sticks for dessert.

Friday, January 19, 1945

  Carl and I had afternoon off. Received two packages - one from Betts - one from Lucille + Engle(?). Got a hair cut. Had melba toast cheese sandwiches with deviled ham in between. Saw "In the Meantime Darling." Carl opened his quart of Canadian Club as a celebration for our reaching two years overseas.

Saturday, January 20, 1945

  Left Wilmington, California two years ago today at 8 A.M. Got two packages from Betty - some toys for Brian Johnston among the gifts. Buck Sheet news very good. Russia really on the move.

Sunday, January 21, 1945

  Saw "Rhapsody in Blue" at Hqrs. movies.

Monday, January 22, 1945

  Had cocktail hour at 5 P.M. in the basha. Melba toast cheese sandwiches, minced ham, peanuts, Sifties(?) and pretzel wafers. Saw "Mrs. Parkington" at our camp movies. Received knife (head)(?) from Graham. Two packages from home, 34 and 35.

Tuesday, January 23, 1945

  Invited Zeller to cocktail party, olives, dill pickles, peanuts, beer, etc. Played cards in basha.

Wednesday, January 24, 1945

  Russians really on the move. Had horses dovers at 5. Saw "Dough Girls" at movies. Received package from Sallie, Betty's little cousin, and one from Marguerite Fox. #36 and 37.

Thursday, January 25, 1945

  Another cocktail hour at the basha. Received package from Mr. + Mrs. Tom Fink. #38.

Friday, January 26, 1945

  Received package of two large cans of assorted salted nuts from Mary Dickinson. Package #39. Had cocktail hour at 4. Deviled ham, Kraft cheese, olive paste, anchovy paste, sardines, peanuts and butter thins with beer. Fixed up the ice cream freezer and made a gallon of ice cream. Saw "Laura" at the movies.

Saturday, January 27, 1945

  "Russians still Rockin.'" Had card game in the basha.

Sunday, January 28, 1945

  Bloom, Finer, Lear and Ernie went out in the jungle after deer and came back with a big box full of fish. They dynamited them in the river. Bill cleaned and fried them. We also had ice cream and cookies. Nobody got sick.

Monday, January 29, 1945

  Carl, Holland, Ernie and I had a quiet evening at home discussing Lend-Lease, real estate setup, etc., in India.

Tuesday, January 30, 1945

  Made pineapple ice cream using crushed pineapple. Quite a few deaths appearing on Daily Bulletin.

Wednesday, January 31, 1945

  Got paid 348 Rupees 15 Annas. Many poker and crap games in camp. Read Time for Jan. 22.

Thursday, February 1, 1945

  Two nurses visit Capt. Southern from Shingbwiyang; staying at an Englishman's bungalow. Saw "Til We Meet Again." Rain during night.

Friday, February 2, 1945

  Groundhog Day. Rained during forenoon. Got Davidson to take a picture of the group of 8 soldiers in our basha.

Saturday, February 3, 1945

  Hollands replacement arrived yesterday. Many tanks came in on flat cars. Big Chinese convoy leaves for China. No colored soldiers permitted in China.

Sunday, February 4, 1945

  Propose calling Ledo Road "Stilwell Road." Made ice cream. Turkey sandwiches at the basha. Heard "Isle of Song" very good singers from New Jersey.

Monday, February 5, 1945

  Many cannon, 5 inchers, arrive on freight cars. Card game.

Tuesday, February 6, 1945

  Rainy day. Saw "Conflict" a very good movie. Caused big discussion in the basha. Lt. Levine won a rape case at N.C.A.C. Raincoat stolen.

Wednesday, February 7, 1945

  Cold, rainy, miserable. N.C.O.D. on first shift. Big tanks arrive at station.

Thursday, February 8, 1945

  Went to see "Atlantic City" at movies, but got rained out.

Friday, February 9, 1945

  Dad's 75th Birthday. Had a party at Utilities office. Drank the ice cream. Saw big tiger tracks in ravine at mountainside. Rained nearly all day.

Saturday, February 10, 1945

  Rained quite a lot, very muddy. Saw "When Strangers Marry." Zeller brought a raisin pie to our basha.

Sunday, February 11, 1945

  Many speeding court martial cases. Fines run from $5 to $40.00. Assinine, Ernie, Lear and B (not readable) hunting(?). Betty's Birthday. Received beautiful Valentine.

Monday, February 12, 1945

  Abe Lincoln's Birthday. Southerners don't care. Card game in basha. Rainy and chilly.

Tuesday, February 13, 1945

  Saw "When Strangers Marry." Rainy - must be the advance monsoon season.

Wednesday, February 14, 1945

  Valentine Day. Received quite a few Valentines. Card game.

Thursday, February 15, 1945

  Made ice cream at 5 P.M. Saw Marilyn Maxwell in "Lost in a Harem." Cokomoko - Slowly I turned - crazy picture. Ate ice cream and froze after movies.

Friday, February 16, 1945

  Received roll of double 8mm film from Betty last night. Got a haircut. Beautiful, spring like day.

Saturday, February 17, 1945

  Saw "When Irish Eyes are Smiling" in technicolor.

Sunday, February 18, 1945

  Beautiful sunshiny day. A Sgt. fined $50,, by Summary Court for speeding.

Monday, February 19, 1945

  Two baby goats just born. I saw them while still wet. They looked like baby lambs and could walk immediately.

Tuesday, February 20, 1945

  Another sunshiny day. Cleaned soot out of office stove. Saw Kay Kyser in "Carolina Blues." Hqs. Co. defeated by 151st Medics in basketball by one point.

Wednesday, February 21, 1945

  Had medical exam at 20the General for O.C.S. in Judge Advocate Department. Sgt. Bergen hurried me through.

Thursday, February 22, 1945

  Saw "One Body Too Many" at our camp. Good restricted War pictures shown.

Friday, February 23, 1945

  No jeep to go to Johnson's to take Xmas presents for boys. Had hors douvers at 4 P.M.

Saturday, February 24, 1945

  Full moon. Saw Paul Henreid and Heddy Lamar in "Conspirators." Very good.

Sunday, February 25, 1945

  Saw Ledo Road opening pictures and "Hollywood Canteen" at Headquarters. Show lasted from 7 to 12 P.M.

Monday, February 26, 1945

  NCO of the day at Hqs. Sat outside General Pick's door from 10:15 to 2:30 A.M.

Tuesday, February 27, 1945

  Adam Christel left for home on Temporary Duty. He signed up to come back here. Very tired all day from being up last night.

Wednesday, February 28, 1945

  Drove Zeller to airstrip to get plane for Myitkyina. General Court Martial tonight there. Got paid 349 rupees 15 annas.

Thursday, March 1, 1945

  Beautiful day. Saw "My Pal Wolf" with Jill Esmond.

Friday, March 2, 1945

  Had afternoon off. Took pictures around basha. Could not get ice for ice cream.

Saturday, March 3, 1945

  Card game in basha Zeller went to Myitkyina - still there. A big C-47 crashed about 12.15 Sunday morn at the airstrip killing 30 persons, 1 Red Cross girl, 18 nurses and 11 men. Holland saw the bodies, some still smoldering.

Sunday, March 4, 1945

  Captain Southern on "line of duty board" concerning the airplane tragedy. Saw Lauren Bacall in "To Have and Have Not" last night. Went to Headquarters to see "Sunday Dinner for a soldier."

Monday, March 5, 1945

  Much warmer. Carl told me I had been put on the June list for rotation instead of March because I had been promoted.

Tuesday, March 6, 1945

  A very beautiful day, just like an early June day at home. Plummer + Capt. Southern went to Dinjan on tragedy investigation. Received word that Uncle Ed had died.

Wednesday, March 7, 1945

  Played cards in basha. Bacon and eggs fried by Ernie at 8.30. Nice warm day.

Thursday, March 8, 1945

  Saw Ethel Barrymore in "None But the Lonely Heart." Went to 20th General for a flourescent exam.

Friday, March 9, 1945

  Ernie and I drove to mile 9 in a 6 by 6 truck. I took pictures of some naked Chinese soldiers swimming. Took assault boat to Margherita. Made ice cream.

Saturday, March 10, 1945

  Herman Perry reported captured near Chabua. He was shot 3 times. Drove to 20th in a jeep to get my form 63. Saw "Strike Up the Band."

Sunday, March 11, 1945

  Herman Perry, 849th Engr Avn Bn, captured at Namgap near Chabua - shot 3 times. Saw "Double Indemnity" at Hqs. with Barbara Stanwyck.

Monday, March 12, 1945

  Start building scaffold to hang Perry. Played cards and had fruit cake and beef steak sandwiches in Basha. Signed monthly payroll.

Tuesday, March 13, 1945

  Conference at 1.30 P.M. on Perry hanging details. Rather cool and cloudy.

Wednesday, March 14, 1945

  Had card game in basha. Bacon and eggs for dessert.

Thursday, March 15, 1945

  On guard at 5.30 A.M. at Chinese Camp for Perry execution. Perry executed by hanging at 7.45. Saw "Ministry of Fear" at movies.

Friday, March 16, 1945

  Zeller brought a can of fruit cake. Played cards.

Saturday, March 17, 1945

  Ali Alimin wore a green skirt this morning. Saw "Animal Kingdom."

Sunday, March 18, 1945

  Rained in the afternoon and evening. Bill Lear made a chair.

Monday, March 19, 1945

  Busy getting out Line of Duty Board report on airplane disaster. More rain.

Tuesday, March 20, 1945

  Beginning of three years in India. Rain all day. Holland and Streib got orders yesterday to go home.

Wednesday, March 21, 1945

  Visited the Johnstons and took Xmas presents + magazines to them. They gave me a large box of beautiful. Had hamburgers, diced tomatoes and bacon sandwiches.

Thursday, March 22, 1945

  Carl left for home on T/O. Got plane at 4 P.M. for Karachi. Saw "Dark Waters" at movies. Party for Holland and Davidson. Some headaches.

Friday, March 23, 1945

  Party at basha for Holland - ice cream and cakes. Gang came in from all around.

Saturday, March 24, 1945

  Capt. Southern went to Chabua for this afternoon and tomorrow. Saw "And Now Tomorrow."

Sunday, March 25, 1945

  Holland left yesterday morning at 10 A.M. with Davidson on plane for Calcutta. I hated to see him go. Saw "My Reputation," world premier.

Monday, March 26, 1945

  Went to Masonic Meeting at 7:30 P.M. Entertainment and refreshments and an O.W.I. (Office of War Information) speaker. Walked both ways.

Tuesday, March 27, 1945

  On guard at Hqs 2 to 6.30 A.M. Saw "Winged Victory." Bacon and eggs in basha.

Wednesday, March 28, 1945

  Zeller has absessed jaw from having tooth pulled. Monthly medical inspection.

Thursday, March 29, 1945

  Had a catch with Ernie outside basha. Saw "Destiny" at our camp.

Friday, March 30, 1945

  More work on Line of Duty report on nurses killed in plane crash. Ernie and I went to airstrip to see Gordon Osborne loaded on plane on a cot for return to U.S. as a Detached Patient. He has arthritic fever.

Saturday, March 31, 1945

  Got paid Rupees 349/15. Saw "Flame of Barbary Coast."

Sunday, April 1, 1945

  Easter Sunday. Saw "Keys of the Kingdom."

Monday, April 2, 1945

  Ernie left for Myitkyina on 5.30 A.M. plane. Louie Forsmark caught a native Indian in the basha at 4.45 A.M.

Tuesday, April 3, 1945

  Received a beautiful tinted photograph of Betts.

Wednesday, April 4, 1945

  Received letter from Carl from Karachi. Had double dose of ice cream. Other fellows made it.

Thursday, April 5, 1945

  Very hot the last few days. Water very scarce. Saw Anne Baxter in "Guest in the House."

Friday, April 6, 1945

  Received letter from Holland from Calcutta. Colonel Stewart on the pan(?).

Saturday, April 7, 1945

  Saw "Back Home in Indiana."

Sunday, April 8, 1945

  Had two cold bottles of beer as toast to Zeller. Saw "Enter Arsene Lupon." Chinese soldier held up and robbed of 30 rupees in village near our camp. Bloom kicked in the door of native basha and about 20 Indians ran away. Received letter from Betts stating that Christel had called on her.

Monday, April 9, 1945

  Louie complained about no replacements, expects to get fixed up.

Tuesday, April 10, 1945

  Fried steak in the basha. Very good. Heavy wind and rain almost blew our basha down. Two bashas near our crashed to the ground.

Wednesday, April 11, 1945

  Had sliced tomato and chicken sandwiches. Signed payroll. Heavy rain during night with lightning.

Thursday, April 12, 1945

  Received 8 page, both sides, letter from Betts. Saw "Mark of the Whistler." Beautiful night.

Friday, April 13, 1945

  Heard news at 8:00 A.M. that President Franklin D. Roosevelt had died; Lewis A. Pick had been made Major General; Lt. Metzger's father had a heart attack and that Louie Forsmark's replacement had arrived. Made ice cream.

Saturday, April 14, 1945

  Saw "Back Home in Indiana." Arranged for elephant hunt.

Sunday, April 15, 1945

  Up at 6.30, jeeped to 15 mile mark, rode elephants in jungle, had lunch, fell off the rear end of a large elephant. Made ice cream on return. Saw "Coney Island" at Hqs.

Monday, April 16, 1945

  Took lots of moving pictures yesterday. Plenty stiff. Got shots.

Tuesday, April 17, 1945

  Louie Forsmark left for U.S. All hated to see him go.

Wednesday, April 18, 1945

  Very hot day. Still have sore arm from cholera shot + Tetanus.

Thursday, April 19, 1945

  Capt. Southern talks about replacement for me. Took movies of our new tent and the boys. Saw "Woman in the Window."

Friday, April 20, 1945

  Ernie Pile reported killed yesterday. Report of death of Lt. Metzger's father. Card game in basha.

Saturday, April 21, 1945

  Rain nearly all day. Was C.Q. at Hqs. from 5-30 to 10.

Sunday, April 22, 1945

  Moved into our new tent. Very nice - backrooms and large porch, all screened in.

Monday, April 23, 1945

  Worked on basha. Ali Alimin very proud of new home.

Tuesday, April 24, 1945

  Played cards in basha. Many visitors. Had chicken sandwiches after card game.

Wednesday, April 25, 1945

  Saw "Happy Holiday" a U.S.O. show - very good looking girls. Went at 5.30 for 7.15 sharp.

Thursday, April 26, 1945

  Very warm during the day. Our new home is fine and airy. Saw "Follow the Boys."

Friday, April 27, 1945

  Frankie Baker visited me. All of us went with Ernie to Staging Area. I took movies of boys of my old outfit.

Saturday, April 28, 1945

  Saw Kismet at the movies.

Sunday, April 29, 1945

  Jacobus, Ballon and one of our 48th cooks called on me on their way home, also Tam(?). Made cocoa ice cream.

Monday, April 30, 1945

  Men over 42 to be released. Payday - 249 Rs 15 annas.

Tuesday, May 1, 1945

  Saw "Can't Help Singing." Ernie's replacement arrived.

Wednesday, May 2, 1945

  Physical inspection, 94° in shade - plenty hot.

Thursday, May 3, 1945

  Capt. Southern turned down on promotion - to go home. Saw "Murder My Sweet."

Friday, May 4, 1945

  Sorted my things to turn in. Ernie getting ready to leave. Dick Semecke(?) is Ernie's replacement.

Saturday, May 5, 1945

  Ernie left for Gaya at 1 P.M. Heavy rain. Saw "Gaslight."

Sunday, May 6, 1945

  Capt. Southern turned down for Major; left for home after 24 months.

Monday, May 7, 1945

  Point system announced 5 for each month in service, 6 for each month overseas, 24 for combat star.

Tuesday, May 8, 1945   V.E. (Victory in Europe) Day announced in the Buck Sheet at noon today. Unconditional surrender happened yesterday, May 7, 1945 just 3 years and 7 months after Pearl Harbor. Signed application blank on the point system. Bloom has 547 points. Our new home has been dubbed "Club 88." I have 335 poits -31 months in the Army at 5 points - 28 months overseas at 6 points - and 12 points for the bronze star.

Wednesday, May 9, 1945   Zeller returned from Myitkyina. Had card game in the basha. Heavy rain during the night leaked through the tent roof and splattered down on the bed.

Thursday, May 10, 1945   Bill Lear and Henry (Long Salit) Schwertman left by plane for Calcutta at 4:30 P.M. Bloom got his orders to go home. He is to fly all the way on a #2 priority. Bloom opened a bottle of Heyward's rum as a going away celebration. Saw "Three's a Family" at the movies. It started to rain so Proctor walked over to our tent to get our rain coats.

Friday, May 11, 1945   Frank Ryan got his orders to go home. New Point system released by War Department. 1 point for each month in the Army. 1 point for each month overseas. 12 poimts for each child and 5 points for a combat star. 85 points set as the required score. I packed my steel foot locker preparatory to going home. Bloom to leave tomorrow. Zeller scheduled to go to Calcutta on leave tomorrow.

Saturday, May 12, 1945   Gene Melvin brought my orders to me permitting me to go home at 11 O'clock A.M. I finished packing my foot locker, turned in most of my equipment to Supply and got new T/Sgt. stripes sewed on my shirt at the Red Cross. Saw "Here Come the Waves" at our camp.

Sunday, May 13, 1945

  Turned in my bed, sheets and blankets. Got the forms for sending home my foot locker and the casual tags. Took my foot locker to the Quartermaster in a jeep loaned me by 1st Sgt. Archie Frost. Stopped at Red Cross to say goodbye to Jim Kelly (Worcester, Mass.) and go a piece of ice out of the Frigidaire from him. Plenty hot, had two cold beers. Saw "Two Down and One To Go" (the government movie showing the discharge of men set up) in technicolor; and "Wilson." Had some chocolate ice cream at Dick Wise's and Dayton Salter's tent. Took some colored movies of the Kay tea gardens, the river, Nagas and river boats. Showed Lt. Levine how to hndle the examination of Courts Martial Records. Said goodbye to Mr. + Mrs. Harold John Joseph.

Monday, May 14, 1945

  Said goodbye to all the boys. Took movies of Capt. Frank, Erwin Plumer, Salter, Miner, Hoffman, Gerald Schroeder and Capt. Cochran. Also took pictures at Headquarters Co. of Capt. Vincent J. Wessel, Archie Frost, Bobrow, Moore, etc. Frost drove Williamson and me to airport at 1.30 along with Strepak. I took some movies of the plane. We left at 5.30, made one stop and arrived in Calcutta at 10.30. Had something to eat at Air Corp mess hall, then went to Transient Camp. Terrific wind, rains and lightning storm about 1 A.M.

Tuesday, May 15, 1945

  Left at 8.30 A.M. after breakfast for the main office where we parked the barracks bag. Met Frank Ryan at the camp. Met Lear, Zeller and Schwerdman at Red Cross building - had breakfast with them. Toured the jewelry stores in search of a star and red ruby. Saw many but all had flaws. Met Frankie Baker. Had lunch at Cathay Restaurant, Took lots of movies of the City of Calcutta, a shot of an Indian with a mongoose and cobra and a flock of goats walking up a main street. Met Captain Southern in the New Market tremendous store district. Got a truck at 3.30 P.M. for Replacement Depot #2, A.P.O. 496 arriving at 5.15 P.M. Assigned a tent, had supper and shower and saw a "Blondie Movie." Plenty tired. Met Cassidy, Forsmark, Lindroth, Page, Weiner.

Wednesday, May 16, 1945

  Up at 6.30. Plenty hot. Meeting of men to get information on travel so far. Moved into a company area. Clothing check. Ernie Wilson arrived at the camp. Took pictures of man rowed boats and paddle wheel boats on the river.

Thursday, May 17, 1945

  Went to movies at Angus Mills, India with Fallon, Rafferty, Davis, Forsmark and Ernie Wilson. Walked along the banks of the Hooghley River.

Friday, May 18, 1945

  Played golf at Angus Mills with Ernie. Paid 5 rupees. Rode in an Indian rickashaw. Scored a 40 on the links 4, 4, 2, 4, 4, 5, 6. Had supper at Angus Mills canteen.

Saturday, May 19, 1945

  Gang of soldiers broke into an Indian gin mill store. Saw "Thunder Cloud" at the movies. Plenty hot during the daytime.

Sunday, May 20, 1945

  Played golf at Angus Mills with Ernie and took moving pictures of the golf links. Ernie and I found out from two British gentlemen that we had been overcharged by the Hindus for playing golf.

Monday, May 21, 1945

  Took my papers, etc. to have them censored. Changed rupees into American money. I got $507.80. Took movies of Camp Angus and the river boats. <

Tuesday, May 22, 1945

  Mailed more film to Base Censor, A.P.O. 465. Cassidy and I had hamburger sandwiches at Red Cross for 8 annas (16 cents), ice cream 1 rupee 2 annas (34 cents).

Wednesday, May 23, 1945

  Lined up our barracks bags at 10.30 A.M. Dismissed at 3 P.M. because of railroad tie-up. Saw Betty Davis in "The Corn is Green." Called out of movies at 9.40 P.M. Walked to train at 1.10 A.M.

Thursday, May 24, 1945

  Train left for port at 2.30 A.M. Slept on upper bench board on the train. Ate K rations on train. Arrived at port at 1.10 P,M. - very hot, almost unbearable in the sun. Went on board the U.S.S. General W. T. Greely at 3.30 P.M. Battle casualties and psychiatric cases followed us on board. Many slept on deck. I am located at hatch C5 at the bottom of the stairs. About 4000 on board.

Friday, May 25, 1945

  Hard boiled American eggs for breakfast. Splendid food. The best fried potatoes you ever ate. At 2.15 P.M. all visitors on the ship were told to leave for shore. A British woman continuously waved from shore to her daughter who had married an American soldier and was going to America with him. The Greely band played and the ship's whistles blew at 2.45 P.M. The boat tried to turn in the Hooghley River but could not do so and had to back down the river and later stopped to wait for high tide. Very hot below deck at night. Soldiers spread all over the deck sleeping.

Saturday, May 26, 1945

  The boat got turned around but had to stop and wait for high tide. Five General Court Martial convicts on board ship; G.I. wives and children; many Chinese, some civilians from Burma, Red Cross girls and nurses. Orchestra played on upper deck. Saw a movie on top deck in open air.

Sunday, May 27, 1945

  Passed lots of anchored ships at mouth of Hooghley River at entrance to Bay of Bengal. Talked to Captain Southern on 'C' deck. Good dinner with ice cream. On deck with Louie Forsmark and Paul Cassidy.

Monday, May 28, 1945

  Captain Stedman, the captain of the ship said that anyone who did not like his duty on the ship or the conditions could get off at any port at which the boat stopped. A salt water shower installed on the upper deck for officers and nurses blew all over the soldiers in the chow line on the deck below.

    The diary ends here with the last entry aboard the homebound U.S.S. General Greely.

Diary shared by Jim Heller and Bet Heller Ferguson

Adapted by Carl W. Weidenburner       Copyright © 2024       Revised:

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