February 13, 1945, Fresno, California

Tom is still wrapping up loose ends at the air base before leaving to travel overseas. He goes to the barber and collects a lock of his hair, which he includes in his letter to Zoe.
Tues. night.

February 13, 1945, Fresno, California, Page 1
February 13, 1945, Fresno, California, Page 1

Darling,

Andy and I are sitting here in the apt. writing, Jeans ironing and Bob isn’t doing much of anything. Andy and I are going to do some ironing when they go to bed.

We got back from Merced about noon, went out to the base and found out that we should have been there at 8:00 this morning to have something at ground school. However, no one showed up as most of the fellows are strung out all over Calif. There were a whole bunch going to L.A. when we went to Merced.

February 13, 1945, Fresno, California, Page 2
February 13, 1945, Fresno, California, Page 2

I received Dad’s card today but haven’t received the shells as yet, but they will probably come tomorrow.

Honey, Andy and I went to the barber shop this afternoon. I’m sending you a sample, but now listen if you get your hair cut have it planned so it will be grown out when I get back.

Tom Cartmell's hair, from February 13, 1945, Fresno, California
Tom Cartmell’s hair, from February 13, 1945, Fresno, California

Darling, I’m really looking forward to talking to you tomorrow night. Here’s hoping that the call goes right through so I won’t have to get you up real late. However, even if I have to wake up everyone in the Foran household at 4:00 AM I will to talk to you.

February 13, 1945, Fresno, California, Page 3
February 13, 1945, Fresno, California, Page 3

We got our shipping orders today so I put in for your transportation. You should receive a check for about $70.00, maybe not exact, and you can use the power of attorney to cash it. Let me know when you receive it.

Keep writing and send your letters here until you receive my APO number. There might be quite a spell that I won’t be able to write but honey you keep writing anyway and don’t worry. When I do get to where I’m going I’ll tell you I’ve arrived and date it odd or even.

Andy’s just about through ironing so guess I’ll take over.

I love you very much –

Forever yours,

Tom.

February 13, 1945, Fresno, California
February 13, 1945, Fresno, California

A Young Man Went Off to War