March 20, 1954 Vieques, P.R. My Darling Wanda, I is a home sick chicken - not home sick either just sick from wanting you. You know I've always heard that the first few months away were the worst - they must be because if things get any worse I don't believe I could take it. I need you Wanda more than ever. I didn't write last nite - we got in at 7:45, ate chow at 8:00 and by the time we got our tanks secured, it was 9:30 - I just wasn't in the mood to write - I was beat. I let about half my platoon go to San Juan yesterday afternoon, so that left us kinda short-handed. We worked until 10:30 this morning. Things are getting kinda rough with me - I've lost two tank commanders in the last day and have no one to replace them. Yesterday Hornyak [sp?] fainted again so they sent him to the hospital. About a week ago he fell between two tank s and hurt his head and back - ever since he's been passing out nearly every day. He didn't want to go to the doctor but I made him go yesterday. Today Case got a telegram saying his sister was dying - so he's leaving this afternoon. We took up a collection to help get him home - he really made out, got $85 just from our platoon. That's one of the few things I like about the service - if you're ever in a pinch the boys you work with will do anything they can to help you out. In civilian life you just don't have friends that close. Well guess I'd better quit telling you my troubles and get your other letters answered as tonite I should have a couple of more to answer - honey that is all I live for now - your letters. Well I'm glad our taxes is over - but I'm sorry we had to borrow money.to pay them - they could have waited. Wanda I got paid $50 this payday and Willie.gave me ten. I paid Lyons 10 and will send you $40 as soon as the Post Office is open - it was closed today. Wanda please don't worry about the money - if we don't have it, we can get it, darling I don't want you worrying about anything. Your dad is alright - he's just beginning to get old and those things just go along with it - we can't have good health forever. Wanda I'm glad you fell and fell hard - I did too and I wouldn't want it any other way - you're mine and I'm yours, nothing but death can come between us - I'm not to sure death could stop me Wanda - as I want you forever - no matter where we are. That baby will make us all the more happy - I know it well. No I don't think you should do so much riding, of course it may not hurt you - but it damn sure do you any good. Shame on you and Pat for even thinking of spooking those dame rear-echelon jarheads on exhibition. Why couldn't I have a racket like that. Baby I'll close for now, just remember I love you and need you more than ever. You damn right we'll see about me having you when I get back. I've had it, I get all shook up just thinking of living with you again. Wanda I need you. Yours Forever, Dave Brad Tesh - transcribed 2005-01-11