5 October, 1942

5 October, 1942

Louise Darling:

.. I haven't the least idea of whats going to happen to me and this squadron. One thing I do know is that I am going out of here alive and well. I have been shot up twice and shot down once without getting a scratch. Landed in Jap territory when I was shot down but got back damn fast thru some pretty thick jungle. They aren't going to get me on this trip I am certain. Have lost the best I started out with. Lost one the same day I was lost (Oct 2), would have rather it had been me instead of him. Hope I can see his family when I get back and tell them what a swell Marine he was. I know they will be proud of him. He just received the Distinguished Flying Cross the day before. Really no justice in war, or he certainly would have gotten through.

I have gotten 18 of them so far and am getting sick of seeing them burn and blow up in my face. Several times I have had to duck to get out of the debris. It isn't so funny when I am on the receiving end of it. An Admiral pinned the Navy Cross on me the other morning. I am proud to get it, except that they think that it is good payment for seeing young pilots who are sharing my tent go down in flames day after day. I don't mind saying that I am sick of the whole mess. ...

All my love to you,

John