March 20, 1967

Dear Lorraine,

Hi! Honey, How are you? Let me start with an apology for not writing more often. I’m not sure what is wrong with me. We have been flying a lot lately and have been in the field again for the past 4 days. I spend most of my free time working on my ship just to keep from thinking about this place and about how much I wish I were home with you. Right now I should be fixing a few non-flight effecting issues before Mr. Dobbs has a fit bout it.

The rumor mill is at it again and the word is we going to the field soon. This time its up north and west of here to Dak To. We will be working with the Special Forces and flying missions west of Dak To. Dak To is located about 17 miles from the border with Laos.

I guess by the time this gets to you, you will have already left for Spring Break in Florida. I sure hope you have good time. Just thinking about it makes me remember walking on the Beach with you at night. I can smell the salt air and hear the waves breaking on the beach. I can feel the warmth of your hand and see all the stars. I’m jealous and getting depressed thinking about it. Maybe when we get back from the field I’ll put in for R&R and go to Bannock for a few days. I have 6 months in country now and qualify for R&R. Some of the guys have gone and said they had a good time. Just being away from here for a few days might be relaxing and take my mind off of the responsibility of my ship.

Please keep the mail coming. I will try to do better with the letters but can’t promise I will. I Love You and Miss You Very Much.

Tom
S.W.A.K.

Tom GAtor 851