October 8, 1966

Hi Honey!

Let me start with an apology for the time between letters. I have finally arrived in Vietnam and am at Lon Ben near Saigon. I have been going through some in country processing and still trying to find out where and what I will be doing. The ride from the Air Field was less than reassuring. The Bus had heavy wire screens over all of the windows. We were told it was to keep the locals from throwing things in but I think it was to keep us from getting out.

If there is such a place as Hell, this is it we have mosquitoes, leeches in all the rivers and streams (you know how I hate Leeches), ants that bite, and not so friendly little short guys that run around at night. I got here just in time for the hot season. It usually rains once a day and believe me when it rains it pours. I still have not been assigned to a Unit but the word is that trained Helicopter personnel are in demand everywhere especially in the Saigon area. I need to get settled somewhere soon, it’s the not knowing that works on you. I don’t know any of the other guys, I don’t know where I will be assigned, I don’t know what this year has in store for me, and I don’t know what it will be like to be home again. If I were lucky, it would be good to be assigned near Saigon since it seems to be relatively safe around here.

As for other things, the food is not worth eating, would you believe powdered eggs (tastes like?), powdered milk (tastes like?), and very few cold drinks. I have been going to the PX and buying Spam, Soda crackers, and canned Pineapples. You don’t know how good you have it until you don’t have it. I don’t think I will be packing on any pounds over the next year. When I get home I’m going to kiss the ground and then eat a steer (RAW).

Enough about me, how are things with you. When I have an APO address you can fill me in on what you have been doing besides School. I’m going to close now I need to write my mom and let her know all is well.

Love Tom
S.W.A.K.

Tom Gator 851.