May 13, 1943

U.S. Navy Flight Prepatory School

May 13, 1943    2000

Dear Pop, Ma, Mary, Jerry, Mat & Bub,

   Well I have just finished my first day as a cadet. Boy was it long. We hit the deck at 0545 ( Navy slang) and chow at 0615. The officer of the day came around at 0700 for room inspection. You should see me make my bed now. As you probably know all the sheets and blankets must be tucked under that certain way ( the Navy way), but I will be darned if I am going to spend half an hour a day making my bed. Tonight Chellis sleeps on the floor.

  After inspection we mustered and drilled at the Armory for an hour or so, then off to see more movies ans some jerk let off some steam. Chow again, drill again and, more wind. Don't get me wrong. I am not complaining. I couldn't ask for a better set-up. we are living the same life as the college boys still here. In fact we are being paid and they are paying. (plenty) You wouldn't believe it but there are over a thousand student still here adn only 520 cadets. Most of the students are schduled to be called up in the Army and Navy Reserves some time next month. That should leave the college pretty much to the Navy.

  As I said before no-kicks yet. Everyone is anxious to start on their school work. All these movies they have been showing us , deal with the Air Corp. It's only natural that everyone wants to get in the air. Comes the day.

  The letter must come to a close. There are so many cards I have to send out , it isn't funny.

              Your loving son , brother, cousin and nephew,

                                                          Jim

PS I hope you have sent the electric razor. This morning it was a slaughter for the bathroom.