It's Awful to be Handcuffed Like This

Sunday, August 16, 1942

Back into Omagh today. It’s good to be back. A week out in that morass is enough. After I got straightened out a little at the courthouse I went down and took a much-needed shower. Talk about filth. Came back and took a little nap and them went up to Gallaghers for a steak and chips dinner.

Received a letter from Jane today and one from Dad. Dad is really one great guy. It’s a great disappointment to him about my remaining a buck. And, I know exactly how he must feel. He’s always placed a great deal of confidence in me, with all his gruffness at times. That I should remain in the ranks while all my friends are going up is a source of much disappointment to him. And I know how those things hurt down deep because I’m hurting inside now.

I’m going to see Lt. Holt this week and see if he can give me any help. Any suggestion at all will help. It’s awful to be handcuffed like this.

Rumor has it that division may ask for volunteers to train as bombardiers for the Air Corp. I’d jump at such a chance, even though your chances of seeing home again are cut down immeasurably. It mightn’t be fair to Jane but anything is better than this and I’m sure she’d understand.

Jane’s letter was like all her others — loving and sweet. I answered hers tonight and will answer Dad’s tomorrow. 

So until then — off to bed.