December 2, 1942

                                    Dec 2
Dear Folks:
            We had 5 more cots placed in this barracks so are expecting some new men. I was down near the east gate to-day and saw quite a bunch of new men coming in. The finishing touches are still being put on this place. A recreation building and some supply houses are under construction. Got my work shoes exchanged today for a pair that fits. The soles are nearly 3/4″ thick with an outer sole of composition. Those shoes ought to stand a lot of water. It has only rained once so far. Have a good olive drab raincoat. My pants are a little long and will have to be altered. Also have an overcoat about the same weight as that old one of yours.
            I was classified as fit for pilot training. Things are starting to get rougher around here to get us ready for “pre flight” school. There is a barracks inspection every morning. If your things aren’t arranged just right such as one shirt button unbottoned or dust on something you get a demerit. 1 demerit means walking 1 hr on the “ramp”. This is not punishment since no cadet is punished. This is a “lesson in conduct.” Haven’t gotten any demerits or “gigs” yet — knock, knock!
            Just finished eating an ice cream bar brought by the guy in the next bed when he got off KP duty. About 90% of the men that came with me were classified for pilot training. Got your other package o.k. Have had only the smallpox vaccination so far but saw a big list including me to start inoculations to-morrow. The average age I would guess at about 22. The fellow next to me has a good folding camera. The radio works fine but won’t last long at the pace it is setting now. Everybody likes to hear it so it is alright.
            A fellow just said he would give a months pay to any man who could do 50 “pushups.” The guy from Hutchinson, Martindell, took him up but he could only do 43. How is gas rationing working out?
            Yours truly,
                        John