November 7, 1966

Dear Lorraine,

Hi Honey! Just finished my first day flying it was a good day. We made a lot of re-supply runs to Units in the field hauled lots of ammo and food (C Rations) also moved some troops to a different FSB (Fire Support Base). We took off at 6:00 this morning and got back about 6:30 then I had to do the post flight inspection and clean the aircraft. My gunner helps with the cleaning and that makes it easier. Mr. Dobbs seems to be OK and I can tell I’ve got a lot to learn about the flying part of it. I’m OK with the maintenance part working in the hanger, I learned more there than all of schools I took back in the states.

Enough about me, I got another letter from you today and they sure do smell great. Don’t stop telling me how much you miss me, I need to hear that. I’m glad to here that things are getting better with school. Thank you for stopping in to see my parents I know that will help them. My mom is sending me two magazines each month Yachting and would you believe Playboy. I always knew she was cool somehow I think my dad is buying it and she puts them in the mail. Yachting makes me home sick but it’s as close as I’ll get to sailing until I get home. I really miss the days out racing on the Bay but most of all I miss being with you.

It’s getting late and I have an early flight tomorrow. Not sure just where or what we will be doing. I’ll write again tomorrow.

Love Tom
S.W.A.K.

Tom Gator 851.