February 21, 1954 LST 1079 Hi Darling, Another day shot to hell and one less to wait until I can be with you again. I wish I were at the same place (Morehead) tonite that I was last Sunday. If so I'd sure be hitch hiking it towards Tarawa Terrace - even if it did mean saying goodbye all over again. I really hated to see you go last Sunday morning. I started to get you to come out to Onslow beach - good thing I didn't as we went straight aboard the boats and up the inland waterway. Well we did less today than we did yesterday - nothing. I lay in the sun about an hour this afternoon. Started raining so I came down and hit the rack for the rest of the day. Its a wonder I don't get bed sores. Wanda the Captain has our checks - he's on another ship so we'll get them as soon as we land. I'll get a money order and pay the rent. We'll get paid again the 5th or earlier. I'll send you some money then. When you get it be sure and have the oil changed in the engine and have the car greased. It takes 5qts. [of] 30 wt. oil. It will be less than $4. Oh yes be sure and file our taxes. Find out which is the best way - we'll owe them money anyway. Have you found out yet whether they're giving you a shower. be sure and tell me all about as I'm as curious as a cats meow. I guess you're still planning on spending a little time with Grandma. She would enjoy having you and I believe you would like it there too. Tell Mom I'll write one of these first days. Just 3 more days and we land (25th) I will really be glad mainly because I'll be able to hear from you and then to I just don't like this damn tub - there's nothing to do. Wanda I just ain't in the mood tonite so I might as well shut up take, a shower and hit the rack again. Remember I love you and can't hardly wait until I'll be able to tell you in person. Goodnite Honey! Yours Forever, Dave Brad Tesh - transcribed 2005-01-02