Camp Holloway Discussion Forum Archive 02 - 05/07/01 to 02/28/03

November 6, 1966

November 6, 1966

Dear Lorraine,

Hi Honey! Today has been full of surprises three letters in the mail from you, one from my mom and I am now officially a member of the Second Flight Platoon. The best part was mail from you. I was at the hanger this morning working when the Maintenance Officer and Kenney the Platoon Sgt. For Second Flight came and got me. They told me to turn in my tools and then go back to the hooch and move my gear. I spent a good part of the day getting everything set up. I’ll be flying on Alligator 851 the pilots name is Mr. Dobbs. We have three flight platoons yellow, blue, and the Gun platoon. Second Flight is blue. The missions will be mostly re-supply and some CA’s (Combat Assaults). When they get back today I’m gonna find Dobbs and talk with him then I’m going to look over the ship so everything will be ready for tomorrow. I also need to find out who my gunner is and talk to him. If you haven’t guessed I’m a little nervous but its gonna be OK. We are having a party tonight for the Crew Chief that’s leaving for home, I wish it was me but at least I got his job.

You said in your letter that the news about Vietnam isn’t very good and that 3 Helicopters were shot down. They were not ours so you don’t have to worry. We haven’t lost any ships since I’ve been here and only had one that got shot up. It took us a few days to fix it but it’s flying again. Did you get the money order is sent and what did I get you for your birthday. Tell your roommates I said hello. I have to write my parents and let them know what’s going on. I’ll write again tomorrow night and let you know how my first day went.

Please keep the mail coming, things are going to be different for me now and mail is important. I Love You and Miss You Very Much.

Tom
S.W.A.K.

Tom Gator 851.