October 17, 1966

Dear Lorraine,

Hi Honey! I know I’ve been writing a lot but it helps with the empty feeling of not being able to be with you. Today was very eventful, we finished a periodic inspection this morning and then went up for the test flight. I finally got to see some of the area around Camp Holloway. Pleiku City looks fairly large but appears to be very backward. When we got back one of the officers came looking for some one who wanted to fly as a Gunner. They were short a person for a big mission. I couldn’t pass up the chance to find out what it would be like so said I would go. We landed over at the infantry base on the other side of Pleiku with about 20 other ships, picked up a bunch of Grunts and flew them out to a Landing Zone in the jungle. Made several trips bringing in more Grunts all in all it took about 3 hours.I sure am glad I was not one of Grunts that we dropped off it doesn’t look very safe out there.Flying over the jungle sitting behind a machine gun is kind of spooky but all went well and we got back safe.

The flying was really great so I think I’m gonna take the first Crew Chief slot that comes up if I can. It will mean an extra $55.00 each month and that will come in handy when I get home. Not much to spend it on over here so we will have money to get started on when I get home. I know it’s not as safe as staying in the hanger but I like flying and I want to do my part. I got some pictures while we were flying and will send them to you when I get them developed.

Still waiting for mail from home it should be any day now. I’m gonna stop now and go to the EM Club with some of the guys. It’s been a big day and a cold beer would taste good.

Love Tom,
S.W.A.K.

Tom Gator 851