October 28, 1966

Dear Lorraine,

Hi!! Honey, Let me start with a big Thank You I got 3 more letters from you today. That was a real moral booster. I think your idea of a letter writing contest is a great idea no matter what the outcome we both win.

Work is still piling up, our team has two ships to work on and they need them done quickly. One is in for a 100 hour inspection and the other needs a new Tail Rotor. They hit something with the Tail Rotor and its in pretty bad shape. We will have to inspect the entire drive system to make sure all is OK. Its still hot and dry here and the dust is getting bad. With all the rotor wash created by the helicopters you get a red dust on everything.

Pay day is just 2 days away. I’m going to send you some stamps and a money order for 50.00. Please by yourself a birthday present. Next month I will send another one and you can get a Christmas present for yourself. I have not been downtown to look for anything, most of the guys say all they have is junk and its expensive.

The moon is still full and it reminds me of being at Ocean City with you. We had some good times on the beach at night. Can’t wait to get home and go back there. Thoughts like that are a little depressing but it gives me something to look ahead to. That’s about all for now.

Love Tom
S.W.A.K.

Tom Gator 851.