December 7, 1944

Dear Kathleen-

Three years ago Pearl Harbor was bombed as you no doubt remember only too well. Ah that time I was getting my medical basic training at Camp Grant, Rockford Ill. I can remember that Sunday as if it was yesterday for I stayed in that day and was fast asleep when the news came in over the radio and to this day it seems like a bad dream. Why all this? Well just to point out I guess what difference three years can make. I was all set to go home over New Years that time but as a result I went to California instead and never had a chance to see my folks till last year. Today I was in my office Ward 22 writing home when all of a sudden the phone rang. I answer the phone and I was told to report to the orderly room. I couldn't think what they could possibly want with me unless!!! Yes, you've guessed it by now, no doubt.

I signed my furlough application for fifteen days starting the 13th of Dec. but I don't get any travel time the Ward Officer approved it so I'll be on my way next week. Gee! I'll be home for Xmas and we'll be able to go to the formal. I will have to go to town and find out just when I can get a train or bus out and which one will get me home and back the fastest for I don't want to spend any more time traveling than absolutely necessary. I'll drop you a line as soon as I found out about the time of arrival. Gee!! I just seems too good to be true. So you can disregard the letter I wrote yesterday.

Yes. It is rather hilly I'd say and very smoky around here. These hills are similar to the foot hills in Calif. Yes it is very cool and damp at least it has been since I got here.

Well this certainly isn't the sort of climate I should be in but I'm not going to worry about it. So far I'm quite satisfied for I have a very nice set up. In fact it is almost too good to be true. We ate quite well at Mac Dill but not really as good as we do here. This food here is tops as for as I'm concerned.

Kathleen, you took the words right out of my mouth. It just doesn't seem possible that so much time has passed by. I've enjoyed every moment of it. I do so hope it is only the beginning but only time will yield the answer. Well as usual I must sign off somewhere so Good bye for now.

With Love, Milan

P.S. I'll be seeing you.