July 14, 1944

(Two V-mails from Vic to younger brother Paul, sent from Bougainville, Solomon Islands to Berkeley, California. Photo shows soldiers - standing - Frank Fatlich and Robert L Hayes (both killed in the war) and squatting - John L. Hinson, John Chickchuna and William J. McGuirk)

Friday evening,

Dear Paul,

It's raining quite heavily to-nite as I'm writing these lines so I'm thankful I didn't go up to the outdoor special service theatre. Our area is somewhat drier since clearing so much jungle growth away and ditches tend to drain off excess precipitation. However, all this seemingly tends to make the heat more noticeable.

Paul, should you obtain a High Standard or Woodsman kindly include ammo and holster when sending same. Send it along with books as such. Yesterday I received your package of books which included "Transit" and "Favorite Works of Mark Twain". Many thanks for the thoughtfulness you showed in forwarding them.

A fellow from my section here would like to know if you can obtain Boccaccio's "The Decameron", preferably second hand.

Your brother,
Vic

(Second V-mail)

Dear Paul,

Thought I'd add a few more works on a second v-mailer. Incidentally, I'd appreciate hearing from you more often so please write whenever you can spare the time.

Believe Ed's birthday is the 17th August, so how's about sending him a card with both our names signed to it? Would you please do likewise when Mother's birthday comes due in September? I'll send you some dough that I wish you'd use to purchase a present with for her. Look around for something apropriate, will you?

Do you intend making a trip to Wis. before beginning college again? Did Cambell get on that Alaskan project? Is Ted Kaynik in Idaho now? Say, won't you be eligible for G.I. education under the newly passed bill? Understand anyone entering service since Sep. 15, 1940 will qualify.

Your brother,
Vic