Harley Max Welker, 954 72 97, Cox(T), V6 SV of Astoria, Illinois, received his basic training at the U.S. Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, Ill. He then received attack boat training at the U.S. Naval Amphibious Training Base, Ft. Pierce, Fla. He boarded the U.S.S. Lowndes, A.P.A. 154 at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 1, 1944. The following entries are from his personal diary. All personal references to family members has been omitted. Max was married and the father of two young daughters at the time he entered the service. Photo: Max, Phyllis(left), and Bonnie(Right).
Jan. 25, 1945 - Bought this diary today in Honolulu. Hope I keep it alright and never have to put in anything bad.
Jan. 26, 1945 - Been working all day. Straightened up my locker and put up pictures of my sweet wife and kids on the door. War looks good. Reds only 90 miles from Berlin. Feel pretty good.Jan. 27, 1945 - We left Pearl Harbor this A.M. Had target practice all aft. Saw a shark today. We’re to go somewhere for invasion this time.
Jan. 28, 1945 - Boy, this has really been a long old day. There were 32 ships to start - 20 AP’s and AK’s, 12 DD’s and DE’s. Other convoy near. Some shooting and flares tonight. Not worried much yet, though.
Jan. 29, 1945 - Nothing new to tell. Sure is a lot of ocean out here. Been having lectures and recognition classes when not on watch. I’ll not be able to write much from now on till this is over.
Jan. 30, 1945 - Still nothing unusual. Sunburned my legs today so they’re pretty sore. Got a helmet - a great big one. Other ships shot at radio controlled plane. Sure am sleepy.
Jan. 31, 1945 - Got a real sunburn today. I didn’t know it was so hot - pretty sore - sick this aft. Had drone-fire again today. We cross International Date Line around 10 tonight and skip a day so tomorrow is Feb. 2.
Feb. 2, 1945 - Seems odd there was no Feb. 1st but there wasn’t. Nothing new today. I drew $4 of my pay.Feb. 3, 1945 - Guess I might as well say now our objective is Iwo Jima, closest landing to Japs that’s been made yet. May get wiped out. This is hottest day I’ve seen. My skin is really getting toasted. Nothing new.
Feb. 4, 1945 - It’s the fifth now. Didn’t have time to write here yesterday. Nothing unusual. Made contact with enemy sub last night. It was after tanker. DD’s made a run on it but didn’t know if they got it.
Feb. 5, 1945 - Pulled into Marshall Islands this A.M., are now anchored in harbor. Lots of islands but awfully small and flat. Hell of a place to be; plenty hot. Hundreds of ships here. Was put into boat crew today - PR - trying to get out. Have to work tonight taking on supplies. Don’t feel good.
Feb. 6, 1945 - Didn’t do much this aft. Still in the harbor taking on supplies. Got lots of letters today. I always feel good when I get letters. Nothing new to tell. Got a flash cover today so I can sleep topside.
Feb. 7, 1945 - This is it. We left Marshall Islands this A.M. We stop at Saipan and then on to Iwo Jima, only 650 miles from Tokyo. We’ll really get a hot reception. Hope I live to tell about it. Won’t get to write much from now on. Don’t think I’ll shave till war’s over or I come home.
Feb. 8, 1945 - Tokyo Rose broadcast a warning to us today that she knows every move we have made and she does too. She warned us to turn back or meet a horrible death. Ha! She must think we scare easy. Got Christmas gift from Caterpillar today. Don’t feel good - terrible headache. It’s awful hot.
Feb. 9, 1945 - Nothing much happened today. Got a gas mask and life-belt, also small helmet. Tokyo Rose says we will never reach Saipan. We’ll soon know as we are due there 11th, A.M. Still have headache but don’t feel so bad.
Feb. 10, 1945 - Nothing new today. My headache is gone though. We expected an air attack this evening but it didn’t come. This is last night for Tokyo Rose to make good her threat so we are on the alert.
Feb. 11, 1945 - I really feel swell now. We are anchored at Saipan now. Got here this A.M. Expecting air attack tonight.
Feb. 12, 1945 - Here we are at sea again. I don’t know if we’re going on maneuvers or just leaving Saipan to escape bombing. We didn’t have the air raid last night. Nothing much new. Sure is a mess of ships here, all kinds and sizes.
Feb. 13, 1945 - We’re anchored at Saipan again tonight. Boy am I tired. Been out in R-boat all day doing salvage work. That’s what I’ll do in the invasion. Maybe it won’t be so dangerous after all. Wish you could see all the B-19s at the landing field.
Feb. 14, 1945 - We’re still at Saipan. Expecting air raid tonight. I was ashore today for about 15 minutes. Got a couple of rocks for souvenirs. Got lots of mail today. Been in R-boat all day hauling officers and mail. Started making ring today.
Feb. 15, 1945 - Been out in the boat all day and didn’t get aboard until late this eve. Had supper on LST-38. Rained, I got soaked and nearly froze. Got a boil on leg. Didn’t draw pay. I have $62 coming.
Feb. 16, 1945 - This is “it.” What I’ve been training and working for. We’re on our way to Iwo Jima now. Left Saipan this aft. Anything might happen from now on.
Feb. 17, 1945 - Just had an air-alert but no attack. Planes sank a Jap sub ahead of us today. I was issued a rifle today. Ha! Japs haven’t a chance now. Nothing much happened today. A plane crashed on a carrier. Haven’t had a chance to write.
Feb. 18, 1945 - Nothing very exciting yet today. Made contact with a few enemy subs but no battles up to now. We’ve run into a storm, sure tough luck. We hit Iwo Jima in the morning. Looks like suicide to set out in our little boats in these stormy waters. Don’t know when I’ll get to write here again.
Feb. 19, 1945 - Today was D-day. It is now Feb. 22, first chance I’ve had to write here. We hit the water at 6:30 this A.M. Aren’t making much headway. The damn Japs are dug in and really give us hell with mortars. Nearly got blew up myself. I know now what is meant by “war is hell.”
Feb. 20, 1945 - Still not making out so good. Mortar fire is heavy and have lots of casualties. Have been doing salvage work and hauling casualties. Nearly got hit lots of times. Came aboard ship this eve just long enough to refuel and get a cup of coffee. It’s really terrible over there.
Feb. 21, 1945 - They sent a relief crew out in our place today. We were out for 52 hours. My sack sure did feel good. Still lots of mortar fire. we’ve lost a lot of men and equipment. Had an air raid tonight but not on us directly. We slipped out toward Tokyo. I have to go out again right away.
Feb. 22, 1945 - It’s the 23rd now. I was out yesterday, came back this aft. Sure was rough, cold and rained. This sure is a bloody battle. I’ll sure be glad when it’s over. Hardly know what to write here.
Feb. 23, 1945 - Our flag was hoisted on the island today but the battle isn’t over yet. Got my picture taken today. Had another air raid last night but we figured on it and transports slipped out ahead of time so they missed us. Haven’t been out yet today but are standing by.
Feb. 24, 1945 - It is the 25th now. I went out again yesterday (today). Japs counter-attacked again last night. There were also suicide swimmers. Have them pretty well under control now and the Army is moving in. Still dropping a few mortars on the beach though.
Feb. 25, 1945 - Nothing unusual happened today. Didn’t even have an air raid.
Feb. 26, 1945 - Nothing much happened. Oh heck, it’s the 27th now. I was out in the boat last night. Sure are getting a lot of equipment on the island. Was busy yesterday and today with beached boats.
Feb. 27, 1945 - Nothing unusual happened today except we got mail. I think we leave here tomorrow and I have a hunch we’re going to the States with casualties. Boy I hope I’m right and I get a leave.
Feb. 28, 1945 - No excitement today. Our boat was transferred. I suppose we’ll get an old wreck V-P now or something. We left Iwo tonight and boy if I never see it again it’ll be too soon. Wish I knew what happens next and where we’ll go.
Feb. 29, 1945 - Leap year. Still nothing new, except they say we put the casualties off at Saipan and pick up new troops there for another invasion. The sooner we win this darn war though, the sooner I can be home to stay so I don’t mind too much.
March 1, 1945 - Ha! I wrote down there on Feb. 29 for leap year only before I noticed it.
March 2, 1945 - Nothing unusual today except the sea is awfully rough. Some fellows are being transferred. We arrive at Saipan in the morning. Today was payday and I didn’t draw any. I have $85 coming now.
March 3, 1945 - Arrived at Saipan about noon today. Put off a bunch of boats and crews and left them there while we go to Guam. Got a bunch of letters tonight. Boy was I tickled. Left Saipan just before sundown this evening.
March 4, 1945 - Arrived at Guam this forenoon. Boy it sure is quite a place. Some of it is really beautiful; pretty big too. Got a bunch of sea shells, etc., for souvenirs. I was ashore all afternoon working. Sure am tired.
March 5, 1945 - Sure is hot today. I was ashore all forenoon getting boats to replace the ones we lost. We got another R-boat, fixing it all up. I’ll mention 196 and 157 collision here so I won’t forget it. Not much happened, been working, am tired.
March 6, 1945 - Nothing unusual happened today. I’ve been working hard all day and am pretty tired. We put the casualties off here at Guam last night. We left Guam tonight and are now on our way to Saipan again. Lost my St. Christopher medal.
March 7, 1945 - Arrived at Saipan just before noon today. I went on a recreation party in the aft. Had free beer and coke - played ball. Got a snail shell and a chain from Jap amm. cart for souvenirs. Saw two Army nurses, also Jap prisoners. Quite a place here. Lots of action.
March 8, 1945 - Nothing much happened today. We put in at the dock and started loading Marines and equipment. I worked and stood watch in the R-boat. Sure are taking on lots of stuff. I engraved some shells today.
March 9, 1945 - Still nothing exciting or unusual. Been in the boat all day, slept in it last night.
March 10, 1945 - Nothing much happened today, hardly did anything this aft. Slept in the boat again last night, this morning we anchored out. Made a trip to the beach today and again tonight. Had a awful time finding our way in tonight.
March 11, 1945 - Nothing unusual again today except I’ve felt awful good for some reason. I really laughed and felt like having fun today. Got my dress jumper and a box of cookies but no letters. Went to the beach again tonight but no trouble this time.
March 12, 1945 - Nothing exciting today. I went out in the boat before chow this A.M. to make a run. Been on the go all day until late this evening. It rained all day long and I was really drenched. It was cold too.
March 13, 1945 - Nothing at all happened today. I worked on our boat all day and wrote letters. Got News & Views with my picture and letters from home.
March 14, 1945 - No mail today. Had to make several runs today. It was windy and water was rough. My face is sore from salt water. I saw “Since You Went Away” tonight. Went swimming today, really swell, saw native girls on beach.
March 15, 1945 - Today was payday so I drew $17 to buy some dungarees. I now have just $100 coming. Wasn’t out in the boat today at all, just worked on it. Nothing unusual happened.
March 16, 1945 - I bought one pair of pants and 2 shirts today. Worked hard all day in our boat. Nothing very exciting happened though, except I got mail. We left Saipan tonight. We have some maneuvers and then I think we go to the Philippines.
March 17, 1945 - We only went to sea a ways and came back to Tinian for maneuvers this morning. It’s right by Saipan. Sure is pretty. Was out in boat most of day. Something went wrong with the ship so we had to limp back to Saipan tonight. I went to a movie tonight.
March 18, 1945 - They can’t find anything wrong with the ship. I didn’t do hardly anything today. Went to the movie tonight, “Blonde Inspiration.” Got some letters today. Guess we’re not going out again far as I know till we go for good.
March 19, 1945 - This has been a pretty dull day. I was working in the boat all morning but I just fooled around this aft. Went to the movie tonight but was rained out.
March 20, 1945 - Worked in the boat all morning but didn’t do much this aft. Didn’t receive any mail today. Also got Argus and N.&V. Started studying my Cox book tonight. I really hope to get a rate.
March 21, 1945 - Hardly did anything today. Nothing to write here cause just nothing happened.
March 22, 1945 - I don’t remember what I did here as I forgot to write and now it’s March 24. I guess I just worked a little in our boat and mostly lazied around, as I remember. Anyhow, nothing very important happened.
March 23, 1945 - I and the rest of the R-boat crew were put in a V-P today and loaned to D.D. 801. We hauled a few supplies and the recreation party. We ate both dinner and supper on the D.D. Didn’t have to work too hard.
March 24, 1945 - I forgot to write here yesterday and day before 22 and 23 for some reason so will fill it in. Worked in the boat this forenoon and this aft I worked on a big merchant marine ship getting some supplies. We really did work, too.
March 25, 1945 - Didn’t do much today, just made up some tow lines and fooled around in the boat. Got letters from home.
March 26, 1945 - Hardly did anything today. I’m a little sore from sunburn I got yesterday, especially my nose. Went to show tonight. It was “Dragon Seed.” One of the most wonderful pictures I have ever seen but really horrible.
March 27, 1945 - We got underway from Saipan this morning about 8:30. Had G.Q. this aft and shot at sleeve - our ship got it twice. Been working in the boat nearly all day. Tonge gave me a pair of shoes. No package or letters today.
March 28, 1945 - Nothing exciting today. Destroyer came alongside and passed us mail but it was for Marines and Seabees, none for us. Ship has really been rolling. Found out for sure today we are to make invasion at Okinawa, 325 miles south of Japan proper.
March 29, 1945 - Fueled DD today, nothing happened. My foot is awful sore. We are to make fake landing at Okinawa Shima. “Decoys,” that’s us.
March 30, 1945 - Nothing unusual happened today. Been storming a little. Pretty rough sea and the storm seems to be getting worse. We don’t know as yet where we’ll have to make real landing. Already is a lot of suicidal opposition and we are in for plenty of it.
March 31, 1945 - Two more DDs joined us today which makes 8 escorts and 24 ships. Stormed like hell last night and today but this eve it calmed quickly. We reach our objective in the morning and make the feint. Got new rain gear, knife and rifle today.
April 1, 1945 - Carried out feint successfully today and I guess real landing is going well. Suicide plane crash on PA120 near our ship also on LST. I think it sank. Saw one of our planes shot down. Tore up our boat pretty bad. I wrenched my leg and my foot hurts. I can hardly get around.
April 2, 1945 - Jap fighter came in directly over us this A.M. but the ack-ack was too much for him. We got a piece of him and I’m sure he went down. Repeated yesterday’s operation again today. We go out to sea at night. My leg is still a little sore but not bad. This is our sixth wedding anniversary.
April 3, 1945 - We stayed out to sea all day today and nothing happened. Ocean swells were biggest I’ve ever seen. They were really something. I think we hit the Okinawa beachhead in the morning.
April 4, 1945 - We’re still at sea. Didn’t hit the beach after all. I wish they’d make up their minds. Swells were big for a while again today. My foot is pretty sore.
April 5, 1945 - Still at sea, nothing unusual has happened. It’s pretty rough today, also cold. we’re about 170 mile from Okinawa. Maybe we go in tomorrow. Last night we accidentally went in just 8 mile off the beach. Expect air raid on us or island tonight. 120 enemy planes reported heading this way.
April 6, 1945 - Same old routine. We had a couple of air alerts but weren’t attacked. Think maybe we are heading for the Philippines now but don’t know.
April 7, 1945 - Boring as hell. Same old thing and no unusual incidents to write here. I worked up in the boatswain’s locker all aft. It’s reported the Jap fleet has come out heading toward Okinawa. Should be here by 8 in the morning. Just what we wanted, maybe end of war is near.
April 8, 1945 - Ho hum, nothing ever happens unusual. Russians broke with Japs and U.S. only 92 miles from Berlin. Gosh I hope this damn war ends soon so I can go home to my family.
April 9, 1945 - I don’t know what in hell we’re doing out here or if anyone else does. Seems like we’re getting farther south, at least it’s getting warmer. Sea has been smooth as glass today.
April 10, 1945 - Sea is still awfully smooth. I expect we’re in for a storm. Looks like Germany is just about done for. Gosh, I hope so. I’ve had the blues pretty bad today but feel better now.
April 11, 1945 - Left convoy this morning. Our ship is going to Okinawa alone. We have two escorts. Were alongside task force 58 for a while today. Water is getting plenty rough. Hope we make out OK but know we will.
April 12, 1945 - Arrived at Okinawa this A.M. but haven’t as yet unloaded anything. Had air raids all day long; ships shot down several. I saw two dog fights. One Jap came down in flames. They got a few hits on us pretty hard on a D.E. Knee is sore as heck. Also, they sank Jap sub nearby.
April 13, 1945 - Air raids yesterday and nearly all night; also this morning and again tonight. Was ashore all aft, got some shells and bowl for souvenirs. Weird fish and things in coral reefs. Caves, gun emplacements, huts and everything is bombed to rubble. Saw little old Jap man and prisoners, lots of goats. Place stinks.
April 14, 1945 - Had air raids most of last night. Got word yesterday that Roosevelt died. Looks like war will soon be over, at least with Germany. Left this A.M. for Saipan; we’re at sea now. Had couple alerts today; planes were over island. Sure miss my family.
April 15, 1945 - Nothing unusual happened today. We’re making pretty good time. I was put on as brig sentry today in place of gun watches. Hope it doesn’t last long. It’s monotonous but can write letters. Soon get some mail I hope.
April 16, 1945 - Quite a bunch of ships in this convoy; also two BB’s and a heavy cruiser. More scuttlebutt that Germany gave up. Also some that we may go to Pearl and maybe States.
April 17, 1945 - Sailing, sailing, o’er the deep blue sea. That’s me and about all I can write here cause it’s just been the same old thing except I worked pretty hard washing bulkheads, chipping paint and painting.
April 18, 1945 - Arrived at Saipan about one o’clock this aft. I went off watch and worked rest of day. Went to movie, “Sing Neighbor Sing” and “Thumbs Up.” Gosh, I got 31 letters in the mail. I read them till 2:00 A.M. and still didn’t finish so didn’t get to write.
April 19, 1945 - Got some more mail today but no pictures, darn it. We put all the troops off here this morning but about 40. I don’t know what we’re going to do now. They do things so damn funny. We get to sit down to eat now; sure feels good. Went to sleep in the boat this aft, woke at 6:30, missed chow. Went to movie.
April 20, 1945 - No mail today. We were out in the boat all day making a few runs. Tied up to a big Jap shipwrecked here and went swimming. Tonge and I dived off of it from pretty high. It sure is full of holes from the battle; it’s a big merchant ship of some kind.
April 21, 1945 - Was on harbor patrol today. Ha! Tied up to a buoy and stayed there all day swimming and sunning. Really got a sunburn. They are still taking on supplies - 50 tons of it. Pretty tired.
April 22, 1945 - Hardly did anything today. Helped with life rafts this A.M. that tanker tore up. Spent nearly all day in the boat. Shaved my beard off today; feel naked. Nothing happened. No mail.
April 23, 1945 - Got letters from home today. Still no pictures though. Somebody stole the liner of my helmet. Worked all day; am a little tired.
April 24, 1945 - Worked over side all day. Had mail today. Movie was “Let’s Face It” with Bob Hope and Betty Hutton (it was a scream), other one was “Immortal Sergeant” with Henry Fonda and Maureen O’Hara (a great picture).
April 25, 1945 - Nothing unusual today. I worked in the boat and topside cleaning and painting. The movie was “Meet Miss Bobby Socks.” Oh Boy!! Mail Call!! There also was newsreel of Iwo Jima. I recognized every bit of it.
April 26, 1945 - Worked hard all day long even after evening chow, cleaning and getting ready for the big inspection. Didn’t feel good. Movie was “The Doughgirls.” It was silly. Have to get up at 2:30 in the morning. Have duty in the boats LCM.
April 27, 1945 - Got out of personal inspection by being in LCM. Far as I know it came off pretty good. Movie tonight was “Janie”; it was good. I’m on working party tonight 12 to 4.
April 28, 1945 - Movie tonight was “Sleepers West.” Pretty good picture. Nothing unusual today. No mail. Have to go on LCM again tonight. I did last night too instead of working party duty from 2:30 A.M. to 10:30.
April 29, 1945 - Guess I’ll get a full night’s sleep tonight. Movie was “Standing Room Only,” really funny. Germany expected to surrender any hour now. Boy, I hope they do. Made checkerboard last evening.
April 30, 1945 - Worked in the boat all day today. Seems awfully hard to find anything to write about. Movie tonight was “The Fleet’s In.” Saw it before but it’s really good.
May 1, 1945 - Went on maneuvers with beach party this A.M. Movie tonight was the Andrew Sisters in “How’s About It” - pretty good.
May 2, 1945 - Went on maneuvers in boat again this A.M. Did nothing this aft. Movie was “One Foot In Heaven” and “A Wave, A WAC & A Marine.” First one good, saw it before but second one was corniest I’ve seen. May 3, 1945 - Went on maneuvers in boat all day today. Sun was really hot. No mail today. Movie was double feature - “Flight Lieutenant” was good - “Louisiana Hayride” was kind of corny. May 4, 1945 - Was out in the boat for just a short while this morning. Old Pappy Banks made us report to divisions and I painted all the rest of the day - was way up on mast. Movie double feature was “We Meet Again” with Irene Dunne and Charles Boyer, and “Topper’s Return.”
May 5, 1945 - Worked in compartment and head all day today. Had some mail. Movie was “Mr. Winkles Goes to War” with Edward G. Robinson. Slept in bunk last night and going to again tonight.
May 6, 1945 - No mail today. I didn’t do a thing today except write letters to home and read a little in my Coxswain’s book. Movie was “Lost Angel,” really a good picture. I saw it once a long time ago.
May 7, 1945 - Had mail today. Been scraping and painting all day on booms and yard and stay. Movie was “Irish Eyes Are Smiling,” all in Technicolor. It was really good.
May 8, 1945 - This is rather a big day even for me. The end of the war in Europe!! That means it won’t last so much longer over here if we don’t get into it with Russia. Worked all day. Movie was “Rainbow Island” with Dorothy Lamour. It was really good.
May 9, 1945 - Got a new R-boat today, not new but lots better than we’ve had. That took until 1 P.M. Worked on davit rest of day, had to move tonight, got terrible dirty place, going to sleep on deck tonight. Movie was “Seven Sweethearts.”
May 10, 1945 - Worked in the boat all day today. Movie was “Uncertain Glory” with Errol Flynn.
May 11, 1945 - Nothing unusual today. Worked in the boat nearly all day, some on the ship. Got some mail. The movie was “Here Comes Mr. Jordan,” crazy but pretty good. Robert Montgomery played.
May 12, 1945 - Well, today I am 26. I’m starting this day to break myself of smoking, I hope. Boat inspection was OK I guess. Movie was “Whistling in Brooklyn,” with Red Skelton, pretty silly.
May 13, 1945 - Went on recreation party today, swam, played checkers, pitched horseshoes. Had sandwiches, beer and coke. Movie was “Marriage Is a Private Affair.” Had air raid alert during the movie but no planes came over.
May 14, 1945 - Rained a lot today. Painted on davit, wrote letters. Have back pay coming from Caterpillar.
May 15, 1945 - Pulled into dock today and started to take on supplies, also took on Marines. Slept in boat down by the dock.
May 16, 1945 - Took on supplies nearly all night last night. Our boat was hoisted aboard today. Got paid today, drew $9. Boiled out my shells. No mail today. Nothing to write here. Pulled back out into harbor.
May 17, 1945 - Movie last night was “Broadway Rhythm.” It was pretty good. I was in VP. Had duty hauling supplies today. No mail.
May 18, 1945 - Was ready to move ship into dock today, but didn’t; maybe tomorrow. Went swimming twice today and rode a surfboard. It’s really fun.
May 19, 1945 - Moved into dock today. Put off all Marines and equipment. Cleaned out everything, rather are doing it now. Boat is in the water. I have to stay with it.
May 20, 1945 - Everything is completely cleaned out now and all troops are off. Moved ship back out into harbor today.
May 21, 1945 - Everything was changed today. The boat group is separate from all other divisions now. More ships came in today from somewhere. Wish I knew what’s up for us. No mail today.
May 22, 1945 - Spent the day painting in our boat. Got three packages, papers, and cookies (full of bugs). Movie was “Lady of Burlesque.”
May 23, 1945 - Worked on the deck painting and chipping with the first division. Movie was “Joan of Paris.” It was really good.
May 24, 1945 - Worked in boat all day painting and fixing up canvas curtains. It’s going to look pretty snazzy. Got mail today. Movie was “Top Man,” a really swell picture.
May 25, 1945 - Had recreation party today but stayed aboard and worked on our boat. It’s really looking nice now. Movie was “Coney Island.” It was pretty good.
May 26, 1945 - Had Boat and Personal inspection today. They said our boat was by far the cleanest and best looking on the ship. No mail call as yet, and it’s almost taps. Movie was “Pin Up Girl” starring Betty Grable. Pretty good.
May 27, 1945 - Did nothing today but read letters from home and a swell book “The Passionate Witch” by Thorne Smith. Would like to read his other novels. Movie was “The More the Merrier.”
May 28, 1945 - Read letters from home. The movie was “The Prince and the Pirate” with Bob Hope.
May 29, 1945 - Worked in boat today. Movie was “Meet Me In St. Louis.” Really swell picture. Nothing else happened.
May 30, 1945 - Had boat maneuvers today, this forenoon. This aft I put the mat we made on our boat. Went to a movie but forget the name of it. Oh yes, it was “Experiment Perilous,” a mystery and very good. Got letters from home.
May 31, 1945 - No mail today! Had maneuvers in boats again this forenoon. Made fender this aft. Payday but didn’t draw any. Have $197 coming now. Wrote some letters tonight and studied. Didn’t go to a movie.
June 1, 1945 - Was out in the boat most of the day. Wiped grease all off. Didn’t do much else. Didn’t go to the movie but studied a little in my Cox book. Read letters from home.
June 2, 1945 - Was out in the boat all forenoon. We had to haul the Captain around. Didn’t do much else today. The movie was “I Love a Soldier,” a swell picture. No mail.
June 3, 1945 - No mail again today. We shove off tomorrow. Not sure where. Didn’t do much today as it’s Sunday. Movie was “Sensations of 1945,” pretty good.
June 4, 1945 - No mail from home, darn it! We left Saipan at 4 o’clock this aft. Think we are headed for the Solomon Islands. It will be hot there. Didn’t do much today. No escort with us as yet.
June 5, 1945 - No mail again today. I guess we won’t get any for several days now. Still haven’t any escort with us. Had practice firing today. I studied most of the day. Started selling coca-cola this evening.
June 6, 1945 - Got membership card for “Imperial Domain of the Golden Dragon,” “Silent Mysteries of the Far East” - “nuts.” Shellbacks started initiation of Polywogs today. Having quite a battle. Set time up one hour, heading mostly East.
June 7, 1945 - Nothing unusual today except the Shellbacks and Polywogs are still fighting and I don’t get a chance to write. No peace. Initiation officially starts tomorrow.
June 8, 1945 - Initiation continued (unofficially). Studied quite a lot but couldn’t very well write letters. Nothing unusual happened.
June 9, 1945 - Initiation started officially today. Some of the craziest get-ups and things to do I ever heard of. I’ve gotten by so far without anything but I’ll get it tomorrow. Studied some.
June 10, 1945 - Crossed equator at about 9 this A.M. Had regular initiation by court sentences. Flew the “Jolly Roger” on foremast. Studied more today, very cool for being on equator. Have idea, if right will revolutionize science.
June 11, 1945 - Took all the progress tests for the Cox exam, should get my grade tomorrow. Hope I get to take final right away. Didn’t do anything else but stand watch. Supposed to get to Tolagi in Solomons tomorrow.
June 12, 1945 - Went on first boat to leave ship after arriving here at “Iron Bottom Bay: so known because of Naval battles. Went to Tulagi but there was no mail, saw naked natives, got coconuts, saw bananas, pretty hot, not bad, native shower bath.
June 13, 1945 - Went over to Tulagi again but no mail, had notion to go over to Guadalcanal but came back to ship and stayed, studied some, natives came out in canoes trying to sell or trade. $3 for cat-eyes, 6 gig cans ham for 1 little green stock bananas - no trades.
June 14, 1945 - Went over to Florida Island on the recreation party. Went thru the jungles (what jungles!), saw native village, talked to natives, saw drunk nuts, got shells, had quite a time. Got lots of mail from home.
June 15, 1945 - Got paid today - drew $15, now have $204 coming. Got underway this evening, went near Guadalcanal, going I think to New Caledonia. Studied more today.
June 16, 1945 - Went thru islands last night and today; are pretty much in open sea now, not positive where we’re going. Bet Tonge a dollar we’re on our way home by July 25. Hope I win. Studied more, didn’t write, no mail.
June 17, 1945 - Arrived at Espirito Santos in the New Hebrides this evening. Sure is a pretty place. Hundreds of smaller islands all around. Coconuts are cultivated here and bases are right in the groves. Nights are nice and cool here. No mail.
June 18, 1945 - No mail again today. I had duty on the Captain’s gig today and that’s about all I did. Made one trip, had to borrow a shirt and wear white hat. Movie was “A Tree Grows In Brooklyn,” really good.
June 19, 1945 - Worked on deck today with first division. Got letters from home. Was I glad to get them! Bought shirts and shorts today. Washed out stuff tonight and straightened up my locker. Didn’t go to movie; stenciled new clothes.
June 20, 1945 - Got the “back to work plan” from Caterpillar. Worked on boat all day, painting. Started practicing on semaphore and boatswain’s pipe, also took oral test. Movie was “Here Comes the Waves,” real good.
June 21, 1945 - Had presentation ceremony this A.M. Three corpsmen got commendation for Iwo. Worked in boat this A.M., painting, and on fire pump. Had recreation this aft at Espiritu Santos. Bought grass skirt, saw natives, women looked Chinese, all pregnant, dirty, lots of kids. No mail.
June 22, 1945 - I didn’t do any work today as I had duty in the gig and had to keep my clothes clean. Still no mail. Movie was “In Old Chicago,” very good, saw it once a long time ago but went again.
June 23, 1945 - Had recreation today. Took R-boat several miles up river, saw strange sights, went swimming, dived from swing. Saw French women in boat clad only in a slip, naked fellow jumped from boat, also kids. Ship moved into dock. Got several letters.
June 24, 1945 - Didn’t do a thing all day long but sit or lay around. Wrote some letters. No mail. Studied quite a bit. Nothing to write about here much. Taking on cargo. They are evacuating this place to Aussies.
June 25, 1945 - Whew!! What a day! Left ship at noon, got back at 9:30 and boat had been taken aboard. Almost got charged with jumping ship but got by ok. Went up river swimming, in villages, went to movie on island, saw lots of sights, had fun. No mail.
June 26, 1945 - Left Espirito Santos early this A.M. Are making this trip alone, going back to Guam I think. No excitement of any kind so far. The sea is relatively calm. Standing four section watches.
June 27, 1945 - Nothing much happening, just cruising along. Ocean seems pretty big out here all alone. Ran into storm last night. The wind blew like hell and rain really beat down. Pretty sure now we’ll go to the States, I hope.
June 28, 1945 - Still nothing much happening. I got my shell-back card and certificate today showing I crossed the equator. Want to have it framed when I get home. Painted deck in boat today, part of it.
June 29, 1945 - Worked on deck with first division all day chipping and painting. I’m really tired tonight.
June 30, 1945 - Had boat inspection today so we really had to work getting it in shape but it was ok by them. Worked in boat a while this aft, scraping deck to repaint. Nothing unusual happening.
July 1, 1945 - My rate became effective today. Now I’m a 3rd Class P.O. -- Coxswain. Passed near Marshall Islands (Eniwetok) today. Didn’t see land but lots of ships in vicinity. Had watch all morning. Wrote letters and studied rest of day.
July 2, 1945 - Payday was today. I drew $7 dollars and now have $220 coming. Didn’t do much today, worked in boat a little. Bought box of cigars to give out as is the custom when making rate.
July 3, 1945 - Didn’t do much today, course I have to stand watches every day and night. Fooled around in boat doing little odd jobs. Should get to Guam tomorrow.
July 4, 1945 - Arrived in Guam this A.M. No celebration for us but I was satisfied just to get mail. Was Cox on Captain’s gig today but didn’t make any runs. Got letters from home. Went to movie tonight, double feature.
July 5, 1945 - Didn’t do much this A.M. Got some mail and birthday box, was glad. Went on recreation this aft, had beer, coke, coffee and doughnuts. Nothing but rocks on island except roads and air fields hewn out. Went to movie.
July 6, 1945 - Got lots of letters from home today, also small pictures. Was very glad to get them. Didn’t do much today, just odd jobs in boat. Went to movie, double feature, both very good.
July 7, 1945 - Had to start getting the equipment out of our boat today. We have to leave it here at Guam. Didn’t do much today. Got letters from home. Went to movie.
July 8, 1945 - Had to go on beach this morning to police recreation grounds. Got letters from home. Went on recreation this aft. Had lots of beer. Just talked and drank beer.
July 9, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today. Supposed to be unloading, but they’re all mixed up and our section hasn’t had to do a thing all during the unloading.
July 10, 1945 - Didn’t do much today - made a run into beach for officers. It rained like the devil, got wet. Went to movie, “The Clock” with Judy Garland and Robert Walker, really good. Had my blues washed and pressed.
July 11, 1945 - Took about 150 Seabees aboard at noon. Pulled out of Guam this evening. I think we’re going direct to States. God I hope I get leave to go home. Helped to gripe boats down on No. 5 hatch -- ready for sea.
July 12, 1945 - We’re making this trip alone, hope a sub doesn’t spot us. I hope to go home so I’m not writing any letters on this trip. Worked on LCM all A.M., made fenders in P.M. for new R-boat, if we get it.
July 13, 1945 - Another ship with us now. Got my whites back today with the crows sewed on. Worked on LCM all day. No excitement except knowing we’re going to States. That’s enough for me.
July 14, 1945 - Didn’t do much today, worked a little on LCM. Met several ships coming from States. Bet Fred is on one of them. Bucking strong headwind all the way so far.
July 15, 1945 - Half a day behind schedule, passed Eniwetok early this morning. Got my belly and chest pretty sunburned today. Hope it don’t peel off. Shaved off my mustache. Sunday routine.
July 16, 1945 - Sunburn is pretty sore today, don’t know if it’s going to blister and peel off or not. Worked on LCM today. Nothing happening. I hope I can get a leave to go home and see the family.
July 17, 1945 - Soreness is going out of sunburn now, face and lips peeling off. Didn’t do much again today, worked on LCM a little. Nothing happening. If I don’t get a leave I guess my heart will break.
July 18, 1945 - Was on watch all morning, slept all aft. We cross dateline tonight so tomorrow is the 18th again. Just had two Wednesdays and 18ths in a row. Didn’t do much, as usual.
July 19, 1945 - Worked on LCM a little. Didn’t do much, nothing happened.
July 20, 1945 - Nothing happened. Usual things.
July 21, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today. Was on watch all forenoon. It’s pretty cold most of time now. Been cloudy nearly all the time last few days. I’m peeling off now.
July 22, 1945 - Filled out blank for 3, 7 or 10 day leave but it doesn’t mean a thing. May get more and most likely none at all. Didn’t do anything today. Gosh, but I’ll be one sick guy if I don’t get a leave so I can see my family.
July 23, 1945 - Got paid today. I drew $250, leaves me $8 on the books. Collected $10 bet from Jones. Worked on LCM a little. Nothing new to write here now.
July 24, 1945 - Same old routine today. Worked on LCM a little. Nothing happened.
July 25, 1945 - Same old thing again today. Nothing happened. Think we get a ten day leave but I’m on second section.
July 26, 1945 - Boy oh boy, we hit the States tomorrow morning. It sure is cold now. Didn’t do anything today.
July 27, 1945 - Hot dog!! In the good old States. Crossed under Golden Gate Bridge at 8:26 this A.M. and dropped anchor at 9:25. Sure looks good. I nearly froze coming in this A.M. I get liberty tonight. Don’t know yet what kind of leave we get or when.
July 28, 1945 - Had a lot of fun on liberty, got pretty tight, was sick this A.M. We only get six days leave but I’m going to go home anyway. I’ve just got to see my family. Worked in boats all day and made runs. Got a brand new R-boat.
July 29, 1945 - Had liberty again today. Talked to the wife and kids 32 minutes. Gee, it was good to hear their voices again. Cost me $19.81 but worth it. Got round trip plane reservation to Chicago, $196.72, but worth lots more. Didn’t do much else.
July 30, 1945 - Had to sleep in USO sitting up, got back to ship about 7 this A.M. Worked a while this A.M. stowing gear.
July 31, 1945 - Got paid this A.M. Had liberty this aft. Called the wife and told her to meet me in Chicago Saturday. Gosh, I hope I get there to meet her. Had lots of fun on liberty, drank quite a bit.
Aug. 1, 1945 - It’s Aug. 10 now. I was so excited about going home that I forgot all about my diary. I’ll fill it in as best I can from memory. I guess I stayed aboard today and probably worked.
Aug. 2, 1945 - I had liberty today but I don’t remember now what I did. I think I came back to the ship early though.
Aug. 3, 1945 - I probably worked a little today. I know I did!! Just before we went on leave we had to take all the ammunition to the clipper rooms. Got all packed and ready to go on leave.
Aug. 4, 1945 - Left the ship about 10:30 last night on leave, slept a little in USO sitting up. Left by plane at 8:30 this A.M. Had a nice interesting trip but was anxious to get there and afraid I’d be kicked off.
Aug. 5, 1945 - Got in Chicago at midnight. My wife, Frances, and her sister Betty were there to meet me. It sure was swell to see them. Was up all the time until night.
Aug. 6, 1945 - Kids were glad to see me again. I was glad too! Went from Virden to Astoria today.
Aug. 7, 1945 - Brothers and sisters were all down to folks to see me today. Wish I could have spent more time with the wife and kids.
Aug. 8, 1945 - Gale took us to Peoria today and we caught our train to Chicago. Saw Johnny in Peoria. Got a hotel room in Chicago.
Aug. 9, 1945 - Got up late this A.M. Had the whole day with my wife. Gee, it was swell. We walked, shopped, went to a movie and to the lake shore. Had to say goodbye to her at 11 P.M. to catch my plane. It was hard to say goodbye to everyone but I feel better.
Aug.10, 1945 - Arrived San Francisco 12:30 P.M. today by plane. Went to movie and came back to ship about 6:00 P.M. Unpacked and wrote letters. Had a nice trip out here on plane.
Aug. 11, 1945 - Slept nearly all forenoon. Had the watch in the boats this aft. News sure does look good. Went to sick bay. Taking sulfa tablets for my throat.
Aug. 12, 1945 - Worked a little this A.M. They were going to move the ship a little but changed their mind. Went on liberty, saw lots of Frisco. Saw couple good floor shows, had lots of fun.
Aug. 13, 1945 - Worked all day taking on stores and helped strip the gig - going to get a new one. Got my first letters from home since my leave.
Aug. 14, 1945 - YIPPEE!! WAR’S OVER!!! Had liberty at 4:00 P.M. Boy what a celebration!!
Aug. 15, 1945 - Laid in my sack all day. Have duty in boats from 8:00 to 12:00 tonight.
Aug. 16, 1945 - Was out to sea all day today on a trial run. Saw Marlin’s ship this morning. Saw bunch of sharks and two whales. Put in at dock this evening. No liberty. Packed stuff to send home. Got letters from home. Payday, but didn’t draw any.
Aug. 17, 1945 - Had liberty starting 12:30. Didn’t do anything much. Got the kids each a Navy pin. Got some shower slippers. Came back to ship about midnight. Had letters from home.
Aug. 18, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today except wash for myself. Had boat watch this evening. Got the kids’ pins ready to mail home. No mail today.
Aug. 19, 1945 - Had liberty today. Tonge and I went to Golden Gate Park. Had lots of fun. Went thru zoo, aquarium, science hall and all over park, almost. Saw a girl from Caterpillar in Peoria. Went to a movie, had a few drinks. No mail.
Aug. 20, 1945 - Got mail from home. Didn’t do much today. We’re at sea now. Took on about 1500 Doggies and passed under Golden Gate Bridge about 4 P.M. Not sure but think we’ll go to Manilla. Hope we’re back soon.
Aug. 21, 1945 - Didn’t do much today. Wrote some letters. I think now we’re going to Leyte. Hope we come back soon and I get a leave. Sea is a little rough. Several Doggies are seasick. Pretty cold today.
Aug. 22, 1945 - Worked in the R-boat all day today cleaning up, making fenders and mats. Warmed up considerable today. Went without a shirt for a while but before dark I have to put two jackets on. Ran into rain squall.
Aug. 23, 1945 - Pretty warm today. Nothing unusual happened. Had drills. Worked in boat all the time I wasn’t on watch. Two Army boys had quite a fight over 25 cents in a crap game.
Aug. 24, 1945 - Pretty warm again today. Had drills again. Had quite a fire in the galley at noon. Worked in the boat. Have inspection tomorrow.
Aug. 25, 1945 - Had boat inspection today. Ours was OK. Worked in the boat nearly all day. Slept thru most of watch last night in my sack. Almost got in trouble over it.
Aug. 26, 1945 - Holiday routine (rather Sunday) today. Intended to go to church services but got started on life ring frame for a picture and wanted to keep working on it.
Aug. 27, 1945 - Have about gave up idea of life ring frame for a picture. It’s not so good. Worked some in boat and stood watch. Nothing happening.
Aug. 28, 1945 - Stood watch and worked in the boat today, painted the numbers on the sides. Pretty hot, got quite a bit of sunburn.
Aug. 29, 1945 - Crossing International Date Line so there is no 29th.
Aug. 30, 1945 - Worked in our boat all day today doing mostly carpenter work. Nothing happening. Sure is hot. I’m getting quite a tan.
Aug. 31, 1945 - Didn’t do much today. Worked in our boat a little. Ran into quite a rain squall; it really poured. Payday was today. I only drew $2.00. We’re to pull into Eniwetok tomorrow I guess.
Sept. 1, 1945 - Arrived at Eniwetok at noon today. I was in crow’s nest so was first to see land. Didn’t do any work today much. Went to movie topside tonight. Got letters from home.
Sept. 2, 1945 - Sunday routine today. Went to church services topside. Took a sunbath. Sold whiskey Johnnie gave me for $12.00. P-47’s flew over in VJ formation. Surrender terms were supposed to be signed today. No mail from home.
Sept. 3, 1945 - Had holiday routine today, Labor Day or something. Left Eniwetok about 5:00 this aft. Next stop I think is Ulithi in the Carolines. Got two letters from home.
Sept. 4, 1945 - Nothing has happened. It’s plenty hot. Worked in boat and stood watch today. There are 6 other PA’s and 2 SC’s with us now. Starting tomorrow letters will no longer be censored.
Sept. 5, 1945 - Didn’t do hardly anything today. Nothing unusual happened. It’s plenty hot. Wrote some letters.
Sept. 6, 1945 - Starting tonight we no longer darken ship. We are sailing fully lighted right now. Didn’t do much today, worked in the boat a little.
Sept. 7, 1945 - Arrived at Ulithi this A.M., once a big secret Naval Base, about 30 small islands here. Didn’t get to go ashore. Got underway again this evening.
Sept. 8, 1945 - Nothing unusual happening. The water is a little rough, ship is doing a lot of pitching. Received storm warning. Are supposed to run into a typhoon around midnight tonight.
Sept. 9, 1945 - Didn’t hit typhoon last night. It is storming today. Was supposed to hit it this aft but we didn’t. Sunday routine today, didn’t do anything. Got cholera shots this morning. My arm is a little sore.
Sept. 10, 1945 - Been running close to and among Philippine Islands all day. Were to anchor this A.M., got change of orders, ships split up, we anchor somewhere tomorrow A.M. Signed acknowledge papers for points tonight. I have only 30.
Sept. 11, 1945 - Dropped anchor at 10 A.M. at Batangas, 72 miles southwest of Manilla on Luzon. I was first ashore. Got Philippine money and purse for wife. No mail.
Sept. 12, 1945 - Didn’t do anything this A.M. Had liberty this aft. Looked all over Batangas. It’s a hell of a place, filthy dirty. Came back early and was on duty in R-boat all night. Unloaded all the troops.
Sept. 13, 1945 - Was in R-boat directing unloading all night last night till noon today. Boy I’m really tired. We left Batangas about 5 A.M. and are on our way to Leyte. Hope I get some mail there.
Sept. 14, 1945 - Nothing happened today. Still on our way to Leyte. Never been out of sight of land. There sure is a bunch of islands here. One other PA with us. Bought two pair dungarees this morning.
Sept. 15, 1945 - Arrived at Leyte this morning. Have moved ship twice already. Have duty in R-boat doing patrol and special runs. Started loading cargo this aft. No mail as yet.
Sept. 16, 1945 - Was in boat all yesterday aft and last night until 4:30 this morning doing patrol. Got some mail. Had to go back out in boat this aft and was relieved at midnight. Went on the beach today.
Sept. 17, 1945 - Didn’t go out today, only to stay with the boat and bring it aboard. We’re all loaded now, pull out in the morning. Didn’t do much today.
Sept. 18, 1945 - Got underway for Leyte at 7 this A.M., bound for Japan. we’re in convoy, about 25 ships. Had drills. Really rained this evening.
Sept. 19, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today. Guess we’re going to Honshu.
Sept. 20, 1945 - Moved “handy-billy” up to boat today. Didn’t do anything else. Gen. MacArthur’s wife is on one of the ships in our convoy. Water is getting a little rough. Am taking hell of a cold. Went to sick bay and doctored so maybe it will leave.
Sept. 21, 1945 - Cold is some better but I went to sick bay again this eve. Got handy-billy in the boat. Wrote letters. Didn’t do anything else.
Sept. 22, 1945 - Didn’t have any inspection topside today for some reason but we got the boat cleaned up anyhow. Didn’t do much the rest of the day. Wrote a few more letters.
Sept. 23, 1945 - Sunday routine today. Didn’t go up topside even once. Laid in my bunk all day reading my book, “The Strange Woman,” really good. My cold is no better. Still going north, now about 100 miles east of Tokyo.
Sept. 24, 1945 - Have been cruising along all day close to Honshu Island. Mailed six letters today to be stamped “Occupation.” Didn’t do much else today. Pretty chilly. Had briefing on tomorrow’s operation.
Sept. 25, 1945 - 4:30 Reveille this A.M., dropped anchor here in bay at 6:00. Name of town here is Aomori, don’t know the name of bay. We didn’t start unloading yet, some other ships are. Haven’t been off ship yet. Four boats and crews going off to stay.
Sept. 26, 1945 - Been out in the boat all day doing patrol and directing boats to beach. Haven’t been ashore yet but from the boat it looks pretty crummy. It has been bombed a lot. Saw quite a few Jap soldiers and civilians.
Sept. 27, 1945 - Was out in boat all day doing same as yesterday. Went to movie last night and tonight. Haven’t been ashore yet. Japs working unloading our boats. Feel pretty punk.
Sept. 28, 1945 - Still got an awful cold. Got a letter from home, one of only six for ship. Had the same duty this A.M. Had sightseeing tour this aft. Nothing left of Aomori, only rubble and the big temple. Really a hell-hole. Went to movie tonight. All unloaded, boats aboard.
Sept. 29, 1945 - We left Aomori this morning along with several other ships. I don’t know yet where we’re going. We’re running thru mine infected waters now, have our paravanes strung.
Sept. 30, 1945 - Read a book thru today, “Topper Takes a Trip,” by Thorne Smith. Really a good book. Water is pretty rough, ship is really rolling. Hear we’re going to Saipan then to States for only 14 days and NO LEAVE!!
Oct. 1, 1945 - All kinds of scuttlebutt going around about where we’re going and what we’re going to do. I don’t really know what to think. Didn’t do anything today.
Oct. 2, 1945 - Painted all day today in forward troop head. They are painting all over the ship, particularly inside. Sea sure is rough. Docs talked of taking out my tonsils. Gave me some mouthwash to use.
Oct. 3, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today except write letters.
Oct. 4, 1945 - Put into dock about 4 this aft at Saipan. Started immediately to loading men for discharge and a little cargo. Will load all night. Got mail. Painted today. Pull out tomorrow, don’t think I’ll be put off here.
Oct. 5, 1945 - Don’t get transferred here. Hope I do in the States. Didn’t do anything today. Wrote letters. Taking on more passengers tonight, leave tomorrow.
Oct. 6, 1945 - Left Saipan this A.M. for Frisco. Get there the 18th. Didn’t do anything today. Had long talk with Mr. Adams about a transfer. Hope I get one and a leave.
Oct. 7, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today and nothing happened. Got package ready to mail. Can’t decide if it’s best that I get a transfer or not. I’ll just take what I get I guess.
Oct. 8, 1945 - Found out today it’s pretty certain I’ll be transferred. Hope I get a 30-day leave. Got a seabag ready.
Oct. 9, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today. Bought 2 hats, shorts, and some socks at small stores. Signed a statement that I’d bought my mattress (I didn’t) so I can keep it if I want to.
Oct. 10, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today. Laid around all day taking sunbath getting a tan. Nothing to write.
Oct. 11, 1945 - Started painting the inside of the boat today. Cross International Date Line tonight so there’ll be two days here. (2nd) 11th - Finished painting boat today. Nothing new. Water sure is rough.
Oct. 12, 1945 - Got the boat in shape in case we have boat inspection tomorrow. Water sure is rough. We can’t have coffee with our meals cause the ship rolls too bad. Can’t keep anything on the tables. Sure a mess.
Oct. 13, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today but lay around. Got message tonight that we’re to put in at Seattle instead of Frisco. Don’t know certain that it’s true.
Oct. 14, 1945 - I hear today we’ll be in Seattle only 24 hrs. We’re to go right on to Frisco. Didn’t do anything today.
Oct. 15, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today. It’s pretty cold and the water is pretty rough. Due to arrive in Seattle sometime the 18th.
Oct. 16, 1945 - Didn’t do anything today. Put in a request chit to go ashore soon as we pull in so I can call home.
Oct. 17, 1945 - Oh boy, another day gone and tomorrow we arrive in Seattle. Still don’t know if I’ll get to go ashore right away though. Didn’t do much today.
Oct. 18, 1945 - Docked in Seattle at one o’clock today. Got special liberty to call home. Had liberty, had lots of fun. Got 18 letters from home. Got my picture taken.
Oct. 19, 1945 - Moved from docks in Seattle to docks in Lake Washington today. Really a pretty place here - fresh water lake. No letters today. Had to help take out the troop bunk bottoms today. They’re going to strip the ship here.
Oct. 20, 1945 - Had liberty today, went to different towns around here, pretty country; bowled, played billiards, drank a few beers. Stayed all night in Renton, got back to ship about 7:30.
Oct. 21, 1945 - Didn’t do anything but lay around today, slept most of the time. Had boat watch from 4 to 8 P.M. Got letters from home. No news about getting transferred.
Oct. 22, 1945 - Transferred the boats to boat pool at pier 91 in Seattle today. Long trip from here in the boats. Had liberty, bowled in Kirkland, went to Seattle. By myself, came back early in a taxi.
Oct. 23, 1945 - Boat was hoisted aboard today. I got it in shape and they sprayed the outside of it. Didn’t do much else. Got some mail and wrote some letters.
Oct. 24, 1945 - Didn’t do anything this A.M. Had liberty today, bought a camera, too cloudy to take any pictures though. Bowled in Kirkland. Went with Whatley to Seattle. He had a date. I came back to the ship pretty early.
Oct. 25, 1945 - Had to drop troop bunk frames and carry mattresses today. In first division, regular starting today, no more boat group as separate unit. Got letters.
Oct. 26, 1945 - Worked in troop compartments again this A.M. Had liberty today. Bowled in Kirkland. Went to Renton with Wishnoff. Went to Mapleleaf tavern. All the fellows were there. Didn’t get back till morning.
Oct. 27, 1945 - Slept in boat a while this A.M. Had Boatswains Mate of the watch from 11 to 8 tonight. This was Navy Day but I spent it on watch. Nearly everyone was on liberty, very few aboard. Had quite a few visitors. Don’t feel good.
Oct. 28, 1945 - Was on watch from Reveille to noon. Had liberty today. Bowled in Kirkland. Went to Renton with Wishnoff and Matz. We bowled there all evening and went to a hamburger joint. Got ride back from there about midnight.
Oct. 29, 1945 - Worked all day rigging new gripes for the boat. Have to rig all new ones. It’s to be used as a life boat. Got into it with 1st division. Got some letters from home. Have had cold.
Oct. 30, 1945 - Worked in boat a while this A.M. Had liberty, bowled in Kirkland, went to Renton, met another sailor, had a few beers, had fun, got back to ship around 7:30.
Oct. 31, 1945 - Payday, didn’t draw mine. Tonge and several other got transferred today. Worked in troop compartment stowing beach party gear. Went to movie, wrote some letters.
Nov. 1, 1945 - Had liberty run this A.M. Took boats aboard. Moved ship from Lake Washington to Pier 91, Seattle. Had liberty. Called home.
Nov. 2, 1945 - Had some mail. Worked on dock all day taking on stores. Slept late this A.M. Moore took my name, may get extra duty. Fell tonight, hurt my back. Mailed package home.
Nov. 3, 1945 - Backed out of Seattle docks this A.M. at 8:45. Won’t be in R-boat any more. Will be B.M. of watch for this trip, started today. Had sea and anchor detail. Got lots of letters from home.
Nov. 4, 1945 - Sunday routine today. Worked a little this A.M. Cleaned out my locker, stenciled some clothes. Sun shined a little, took a couple of pictures.
Nov. 5, 1945 - Had drills this A.M. Didn’t do much else. Wrote some letters. Worked in troop quarters this aft, had 5 to 8 watch. It’s really rough water now, storms all around us.
Nov. 6, 1945 - Water is still pretty rough but has calmed down quite a bit. Had watch all morning, slept this aft, wrote some letters. Have 8 to 12 watch tonight. Bought alarm clock yesterday.
Nov. 7, 1945 - Water is pretty calm today, sun out some, seem to be out of storms for now. Worked in troop quarters this A.M. Had 12 to 4 watch.
Nov. 8, 1945 - Put in bunk bottoms and stood watch today. Sea is pretty calm now, hope it stays this way.
Nov. 9, 1945 - Cleaned holds and compartments for inspection this morning. Put in bunk bottoms this aft. Went to small stores, got 3 hats, 4 skivies, shirt, pants. Stood watch. Got dispatch watch for drifting mines, lots of them.
Nov. 10, 1945 - Put in bunk bottoms and stood watch today. Awfully foggy - visibility zero, can’t see past the bow of ship. Water ordinarily calm. Went to movie “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves,” pretty good.
Nov. 11, 1945 - Crossed International Dateline, skipped this day - would have been Sunday.
Nov. 12, 1945 - Holiday routine today. Did a few things for myself. Had 12 to 4 watch this aft. Big rollers in sea. Nice day. Went to wardroom to find out about subjects. Went to movie “Dark Waters,” pretty good.
Nov. 13, 1945 - Had first math class today. Had charge of men painting deck. I worked too. Nice day. Miss the family.
Nov. 14, 1945 - Moved today to new bunk. All the deck force was put in C compartment. Grizzly day, blowing and raining. Got change of orders. Go to Manila, then Frisco via Pearl. Hope I get to see Roy in Pearl.
Nov. 15, 1945 - Had drills, worked on deck, stood watch. Didn’t write any letters. Went to movie “Brother Rat,” pretty good.
Nov. 16, 1945 - Went to small stores, stood watch. Went to movie “Silver Spurs” with Roy Rogers. Swell day today, had one shower. Saw school of porpoise.
Nov. 17, 1945 - Was down in the back so bad this A.M. I could hardly get out of sack and dress. It really hurt terribly. Went to sick bay, took heat treatment. They taped me all up. Stayed in sack except for watch and meals.
Nov. 18, 1945 - I pulled off some of the tape and skin with it - really hurts. Making blisters on me. Laid in sack all I could. Canary lit on ship today, flew away again. Miss family lots.
Nov. 19, 1945 - Had the tape taken off today. They pulled off big patches of skin, blood ran down my legs - really did hurt. Still bleeding quite a bit. Just laid in my sack and stood my watches today.
Nov. 20, 1945 - Had dressings changed today, was stuck to flesh. Started bleeding again. Still pretty sore. Worked a little in sail locker today, went to boxing bouts. Ran through islands all day, cloudy and raining so no pictures.
Nov. 21, 1945 - Moored alongside tanker in Manila Bay at 11 A.M. Got liberty 1:00 to 5:00. Place is quite a wreck. Got some good souvenirs but things are awfully high. Took pictures coming in and in Manila. Boys six years old selling pom-pom.
Nov. 22, 1945 - Worked topside all day and half night loading troops and gear. Got letters from home. Can’t tell this is Thanksgiving.
Nov. 23, 1945 - Got underway from Manila at 7 A.M., heading for States. Worked topside all day today. Wrote a few letters. Running into typhoon. Got radioed orders from Manila to return immediately.
Nov. 24, 1945 - Dropped anchor back in Manila Bay at 2 A.M. Moved in closer to piers this A.M. Busy all day - had charge of men working over the side. Went to movie. Got letters from home.
Nov. 25, 1945 - Sunday routine today. Didn’t do much. Took quite a few pictures, used R-boat to get shots of the ship. Stenciled some clothes. Went to movie, “The Big Noise,” Laurel and Hardy.
Nov. 26, 1945 - Got underway from Manila again today, pulled anchor at 1400 and moved right on out. P.A. 99 (Marlin’s ship) pulled in as we were going out. Didn’t do much else. Saw lots of porpoise, some hump-back whales.
Nov. 27, 1945 - Bought towels and skivies at small stores today. Got big package ready to send home. Got out of straights this aft, in open sea now. Didn’t do much else.
Nov. 28, 1945 - Pretty nice day. Didn’t do much. Washed my hammock in shower. Water is a little rough but not bad.
Nov. 29, 1945 - Nice day again today. Water is very calm. Nothing special has happened. Didn’t do much.
Nov. 30, 1945 - Very nice day, water very calm. Passed 30 miles north of Saipan tonight while I was on duty, could see the lights. Didn’t do much.
Dec. 1, 1945 - Another very nice day. Water is almost like a mirror. Had to stop and lay to for couple hours today, broken or cracked valve. Saw whale having trouble with smaller fish, birds were following. Didn’t do much but busy.
Dec. 2, 1945 - Still nice weather and calm sea. Same old thing, nothing new to write here.
Dec. 3, 1945 - Still nice weather and calm sea. Had to stop again this evening for about an hour, don’t know what’s wrong. Nothing new.
Dec. 4, 1945 - Rained a little today, nothing unusual, same old thing. Didn’t do much.
Dec. 5, 1945 - A.P.A. following behind us lost one of their crew overboard sometime last night. Still nice weather and calm sea but getting a little cooler. Nothing unusual.
Dec. 6, 1945 - Crossed date line at 1352 today. Tomorrow will also be Dec. 6. Nothing happened. This is Dec. 6 again, Thursday. Quite a bit cooler. Nothing happened.
Dec. 7, 1945 - Getting a little cooler all the time now. Looks pretty much like there is no chance of getting a transfer in the States. I guess I’ll have to make another trip out here.
Dec. 8, 1945 - Nothing happening. I’m being put in charge of boat No. 1, old Pop Kiemes is going home. Just nothing to write here.
Dec. 9, 1945 - Nothing to write here, nothing happening. Getting cooler and nasty weather.
Dec. 10, 1945 - Same old routine, nothing new.
Dec. 11, 1945 - Scuttlebutt is - we’re to stay in the States over Christmas, pull out Dec. 26. Have new hopes now of getting transferred. Don’t think I’ll tell the family, I’d like to surprise them.
Dec. 12, 1945 - Nothing happened today. Will stand my last B.M. watch tonight as we arrive in Frisco tomorrow. Pretty cold, seems so at least.
Dec. 13, 1945 - Crossed under G.G. Bridge at 0846 this A.M. Unloaded the Doggies and went back out in the stream. Had welcome boat come in with Santa Claus. Had liberty. Didn’t do much. Called home.
Dec. 14, 1945 - Had boat duty all day today. Got lots of letters today and yesterday. I’m really tired tonight.
Dec. 15, 1945 - Boy, I got a swell surprise today. Found out I’m being transferred Monday, 17th for reassignment. Will probably get leave then discharge. Haven’t told anyone and I’m not going to as I want to surprise them if possible. No liberty, worked all day.
Dec. 16, 1945 - Got my gear all packed today and tonight, got clearance card all signed, everything ready to be transferred tomorrow. Didn’t do much else.
Dec. 17, 1945 - Got transferred today from the ship to Treasure Island. Had to check all baggage and they didn’t give us any bunk. Got 48 hr. liberty. Got hotel room with three other guys.
Dec. 18, 1945 - Went back to the ship today to get my mail. Telling the family I’m still on the ship. Have to lie about everything if I want to surprise them. Stayed in the same hotel room.
Dec. 19, 1945 - Went back to T.I. This morning and they just gave us another liberty, 24 hrs. this time. Stayed at same hotel room again. Got picture taken on street. Hit sack about 8:15.
Dec. 20, 1945 - Got transferred to Yerba Buena Island today and assigned to barracks. Sent sea bag home. This is really a G.I. place. Have liberty but not taking it cause now I have a bunk. Hope to leave very soon.
Dec. 21, 1945 - Not on leave draft as yet. Had liberty again today but didn’t take it, weather too nasty and want to save my money anyhow. Went to movie. Didn’t do anything but sit around.
Dec. 22, 1945 - Still not on draft but list for tomorrow isn’t posted yet. Have about decided to tell the family I’m coming home. Hellish weather here. Didn’t do anything today.
Dec. 23, 1945 - Still not on draft, some of the other guys are. Had liberty this aft. Walked around over Frisco by myself. Went to a movie. Mailed last letter to the wife and sent her a telegram. Came back to base about 9 o’clock.
Dec. 24, 1945 - Didn’t do a thing today. Still not on leave draft unless it’s on the one to be posted yet. Christmas Eve but gosh it doesn’t mean much to me. Hope the wife and kids are well and happy.
Dec. 25, 1945 - If Christmas comes on Dec. 25 then I guess this must be Christmas, otherwise I have no way of knowing. Had liberty but didn’t go cause I knew I’d feel worse if I did. Name is on ticket draft for tomorrow, that’s something.
Dec. 26, 1945 - Went over to T.I. today and bought my ticket to Chicago. Boy what lines to stand in! Took all day nearly for that. Hope I get to leave tomorrow so I can be home by New Year’s but I’m afraid I won’t.
Dec. 27, 1945 - Went to T.I. again today - had my ticket order changed and got seat reservation. Supposed to leave tomorrow, sure hope we do but guess I can’t make it for New Year’s. Cold about to get me down. Don’t feel good.
Dec. 28, 1945 - Got my leave papers today - 30 days!! Boarded train in Oakland at 8:10 and headed for home. Gee, can this really be happening to me!! Should be home for New Year’s.
Dec. 29, 1945 - YIPPEE!!!!