July 31, 1944

(Letter from Vic to younger brother Paul, sent from Bougainville, Solomon Islands to Berkeley, California. Photo shows several members of the Royal New Zealand Air Force stationed at Bougainville in July 1944. Note the Japanese writing on the back of this motor-tricycle.)

Monday afternoon

Dear Paul,

Had several letters from both Rudy and the Folks recently and wondered why you haven't been writing regularly of late. How's about a prompt replay in the form of a nice long air mail letter?

Had any recent word from Ted Kraynik? Is it possible he's back out to the West coast already? Did Yuts mention to you that he might be seeing you in the future? Talked like he was going back to least to Frisco. Seems unusual considering the relatively short period of overseas service he's put in.

Mike Princippi hasn't paid me the visit he hoped to. Perhaps he'll be coming up one of these days. Max Mueckler still writes regularly from New Guinea. Jake V. may've gone home considering two facts" he hasn't replied for some time, and I heard a large percentage of his div. went home under rotation enmasse. Still haven't had Phil confirm same but I believe Phil's outfit went up to the Admiralty Islands. Bob Hoey either saw action again at Saipan, Tinian, or Guam if he's still with his old unit.

Today I had a P.T.A. check made out to you for twenty bucks and it'll be forwarded to you shortly. Kindly use same for a straight present for Mother, and purchase something for yourself with the remainder. Have no way of telling what'd be most appropriate for you coming birthday so please excuse the outright money gift.

Last nite I saw a splendid performance given by the military band and dance orchestra sections of the Royal New Zealand Air Force Band. It was the best show I've seen overseas, and it was rendered up at the Bosley Field Recreational center. Their (R.N.Z.A.F.) military band consisted of many pieces and their uniforms and techniques were unique in a gala fashion. Their dance orchestray changed into formal attire, and gave a show featuring practically every form of modern dance music from sweet swing and latest jive thru conga and rhumba. Guess the after G.I. would rate them top-notchers comparing with our best Am. bands after the show they gave. A New Zealander told me that their leader, Walters, had a large orchestra in pre-war times down in Wellington.

Within the next few days Bob Hope and Frances Langford plus troupe are expected on the island to give entertainment. They won't be here long and we may not get see them (our outfit) 'cause we begin some fancy training manuevers on Wednesday. The Div Arty rad. school I have been attending winds up to-morrow. Heard Jerry Colonna may be amongst the entertainers. I (rest of letter has been ripped out, likely by Army censors.)