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Name:
Beverly Cook
Email:
guyersgal@ussaaronward.com
relationship:
Noted in Brave Ship, Brave Men
Date:
09 Jun 2007
Time:
09:32:05
Remote User:
S1
Please share your thoughts or memories, but please be mindful that this is a public forum. Let us respect and honor The Greatest Generation. Thank you.
This is an electronic version of a 3-ring binder that was
lovingly compiled by our father, Martin H. Morgan, in tribute to his older
brother Jack, who was killed aboard the Aaron Ward. The binder contains all the
remaining tangible evidence of this boy's life, as his remains were never found
after May 3, 1945. He was a trainer on the port side quad 40mm gun mount that
was directly hit by one of ten attacking Kamikaze planes that carried a 500 lb.
bomb. Jack was 19 years old and the oldest of three boys born to our
Grandparent's Martha and John Morgan. Our grandfather died of tuberculosis in
1937 leaving 11 year old Jack as the man of the house. He fiercely loved his
Mother and Brothers and religiously wrote home all through his short naval
career, from a scared 18 year old draftee to a seasoned sailor only one year
later. Those letters survived in this binder for over 50 years until opened and
transcribed herein. This is a tribute to our Uncle Jack from the nephews and
niece he never knew. By finally meeting his shipmates in 1996, attending the
Aaron Ward Reunions, and reading these letters, we feel we have helped Jack keep
his promise to his Mother and has finally "come Home".
John Martin Morgan William Martin Morgan
Janet Morgan Shaiko
With special significance to Jane North
Morgan, our Mother and widow of Martin H. Morgan (1/27/30 - 11/01/98)
Full Name; John J. Morgan
Date of Birth; Feb 11, 1926
Place of Birth; Phila.
Street & Number; 1736 S. 18th
Street, Phila.
Parents; John J. Morgan, Martha E. Hugues
Attending Physician; Dr. Hoban
Navy Yard Discharge Card:
Sept. 22, 1943. Satisfactory discharge to
return to school.
Working in the Industrial Dept. as a Trainee @
$6.16 salary.
Summer job before his last year of high school
(West Catholic H.S. in Phila.)
Other obvious characteristics to aid in
identification; None
Draft Notice of Classification:
March 23, 1944. Class 1A. Local Board # 62 at
51st & Chester Ave.
Page 2
Order to Report for Preinduction Physical
Examination:
From the President of the United States,
Greeting: You are hereby ordered to report for
preliminary physical examination at
the Kingsessing Center at 51st
& Chester Ave., Phila. Pa. at 8:00AM on the 19th of April, 1944.
Page 3:
Certificate of Fitness:
April 19, 1944
Having been forwarded for preinduction
physical examination and having been examined, I hereby certify that you have
been found:
( ) Physically fit, acceptable by Army for
general military service.
( ) Physically fit, acceptable by Army for
limited military service.
(x)Physically fit, acceptable by Navy,
including Marine Corps, Coast Guard.
( ) Rejected, physically unfit.
( ) Rejected, physically fit but unacceptable
for other reasons.
Page 4:
Order to Report for Induction:
Into the Navy Order #11966
Greeting: You will report to the Kingsessing
Center at 7:00 AM on the 31st of May, 1944.
Page 5:
Valentine Card to "the girl I love"
(his Mother).
Jack
2/14/44
Mother's Day, 1944(?) . (Hand printed card
with green ribbon):
Just a few flowers
To the dearest Mother of all
To let her know that she is always
Loved and never forgotten
Your loving son,
Jack
Pages 6 through 17:
Letters to Home. See separate index.
Page 18:
Christmas Card with a picture of the USS Aaron
Ward on the front from Wayne Fowers (one of Jack's shipmates).
Page 19:
MIA telegram dated May 29, 1945
Page 20:
May 6, 1945 letter from Commander W.H.Sanders
Page 21:
Newspaper articles about the ship along with
Jack's obituary notice
Page 22:
Photos of; Rev. John F. Hugues, Captain, USN
and Bob Ward, youngest officer to command a plane
Page 23, 24, 25 & 26:
Letters to Martha with condolences from Fr.
Hugues
Page 27:
KIA telegram dated July 24, 1945
Page 28:
Report of Casualty from Chief of Naval
Personnel
Pages 29 through 33:
Letters from Home. See separate index.
Pages 34 & 35:
Letter of condolence from "Gerry"
(?)
Pages 36 & 37:
Letter of condolence from Fr. Hugues
ages 38 through 78:
USS Aaron Ward book compiled by the crew with
a cover letter from Capt. Sanders. Includes photographs of the wreckage and
first-hand accounts from officers and crew along with final best wishes to
departing shipmates. On the last page is a list of autographs from the ship's
officers.
Page 79:
Citation from Secretary of the Navy, James
Forrestal to the USS Aaron Ward
Page 80 & 81:
June 2, 1947. Posthumous Award (Presidential
Unit Citation)to Jack for "extraordinary heroism in action"
Page 82:
June 28, 1946. Eight page "Secret Battle
Log" citing all courageous participants by Commander Sanders from the
Bureau of Naval Personnel.
Page 83:
"100 Things You Should Know About
Communism in the USA". Copyrighted 1948.
Page 84:
The Captain's Christmas Letter - 1954
Page 85:
The Captain's Christmas Letter - 1955
Page 86:
The Captain's Christmas Letter - 1956
Page 87:
Gold Star Citation award
Page 88:
Purple Heart Citation award
Index to Letters to Home:
June 319. September 12
June 720. September 19
June 921. September 25&27
June 15&1622. October 4
June 1823. October 5
June 2124. October 18
June 23&2425. October 29
July 226. October 31
July 427. November 20
July 628. November 23
July 1229. December 13
July 15&1630. December 17
July 3131. January 28
August 2332. February 6
August 2833. February 18
August 3134. March 1
September 335. March 27
September 636. April 12
Letters Home
1. June 4, 1944. Co. 782 Unit B4-117, USNT&DC, Camp
Perry, Williamsburg, VA.
Dear Mother and Folkes, June 3, 1944, Time 0315
How are you? Gee I miss you more than I can say. Well I guess
I will tell you what we have been doing with ourselves. Well we arrived at 12:05
on June 1, went to lunch and were assigned to temporary barracks that is why I
could not send you my address until last night when we got our home for the next
5 to 12 weeks. The first day we were given our bed clothes: 1 mattress, 2
covers, 1 pillow, 2 covers and 2 blankets. We retired and damn glad to at 21:00.
The next day we got up at 0630NT or 5:30 believe it or not, went to breakfast
and started on our way to collect the rest of our gear. What a hell of lot of
clothes: Blues, Whites, dungarees, shoes and all other accessaries from soup to
nuts. It took our 2 matress covers to hold it all. Today we got our physical and
is my arm sore from that blood test. Boy is the guy a butcher if he misses the
vain(sic) he slides the needle around until he finds it. Without removing it
from your arm. Well so much for that.
They separated us so much that only Bill Moore and I are the
only Yanks in the barracks. All the rest are rebels and boy do they stink (B.O.).
They don't no(sic) a thing about soap, but they will learn, I hope! There are so
many fellows from the south that you have to talk with a drawl to get any place
and I mean it.
We are washing our clothes and bed stuff and boy is it
tough!(No washing machine).
We have not as yet started our real work but I think it will
start Tuesday.
We are dressed in our high shoes, dungarees and blue shirts
with leggens from 0530 till 1630 then we wear our whites with leggens and no
neckerchief. Boy some of these guys look like they were pored into them. OK by
the way you should see our heads. We all look like a bunch of cue balls and will
get 2 more hair cuts or rather head shaves before we leave. By God if this keeps
up we will not have any scalp. Well I am going to get cleaned up for mess, by
the way the food is allright and all if you can eat so I will say so long for
awhile.
Your son, Jack.
P.S. See if you could possibly dig up a pen and some writing
paper also some ink because there is such a demand at the PX that they have the
next 3 shipments sold already. Thanks. So long again.
2. June 8, 1944. Camp Perry (Invasion Day Program for
Services enclosed)
Dear Mom, June 7, 1944
Well here it is another day and still no letter what is the
matter with you, got writer's cramp, I hope not.
Sorry to have said that bit I am so home sick that it is not
even funny so please drop a few lines when you have the time. It does not have
to be one of those manuscripts you usually do.
Bill Moore is complaining that he should have told them, the
Navy, that his both legs were broken but it's too late now.
Well this big invasion is under way so this means we may be
here for 12 weeks to train for combat duty.
We just got finished with our aptitude test to find out what
we are fitted for. This may mean I will go to school, I hope so.
Oh by the way, I applied for dependency and I think I might
get it if you put the right answers on the questionnaire they will send you in
about a few weeks. Keep your fingers crossed.
Well I got my first Navy pay and I am enclosing it in this
letter for you to keep or use it is entirely up to you. I also have a program
from the "D" day exercises which we had to undergo.
Tell Marion to write, I know she can if she gets the time,
and help her make the time. Get her to write when you do please.
How is Marty making out with his exams or has he finished and
will he be going to West. Also how is Gene making out, I hope they both pass or
passed for the year.
We have 30 hours of drilling to do yet. So far it hasn't been
too bad but my feet are sore. The boots they give us and the leggens are as
heavy as lead and when we take them off at night we can almost fly. But I don't
mind it. Life is swell except for the homesickness but we will have to get used
to it.
Give Goss my address and maybe he could find time to write.
Also give him my best regards and tell him thanks for taking you to the station
for me and also get his address and send it to me.
Boy what I wouldn't give for a nice, cold, glass of beer, any
kind. I think I will go for my shots tomorrow, don't get me wrong, I mean in the
arms.
I almost got the drawl down pat that some of the fellows ask
me if I am from the South. You have to get anyplace around here.
Well so long for now and please write when you can and send
me a picture of the family.
Your loving son, Jack
3. June 10, 1944. Camp Perry
Dear Mom, June 9, 1944
I received your letter yesterday and was more than glad to
receive it. I also got one from Mrs. Fogarty and today I got Gene's letter and
also one from Dot Fogarty.
I am sorry as I said before for saying what I did in the last
letter but I guess you understand, at least I hope you do.
You said that you found my rosaries. Well hold them for me
because I have this pair with me.
Just to let you in on a little secret. I think we will be
here till August ninth according to our chief. Damn it, I guess this means I
will not be able to accompany you down at the shore, but maybe it is just a lot
of talk. I hope so.
Tell Gene I was asking for him and that I got his very much
appreciated letter. By the way, who put those big words into his head? Tell him
I will pray for him as he asked and for him not to forget me in his prayers. And
tell Marty I would like to hear from him too, just to find out how he likes my
clothes. Boy I bet he looks sharp yeah, around the head.
Tell Bob Miller to drop me a line when you see him and ask
him if he would want a "Blue Jackets Manual" as I can send him one
from the camp.
Well now to get back to you Mom, how are you, and don't worry
too much about that August 9th business. It will not do any good, you
know the Navy comes first. And I hope you receive my big enormous pay (HaHa) but
at least it is my first and I want you to have it with the rest of my World War
II status.
How is Marion, does she still have my ring? Tell her if she
loses it to get out of town because I will chase her all over hell but what is
the use saying that when I know she will keep it safe.
You know mom I never realized how much you meant to me until
now. Gee what a sap I have been and tell that to the kids and maybe they will
wise up a hell of a lot sooner than I did. Well give every one my love and
remember you are still my best girl. Lots of love from your son, Jack
P.S. Tell Gene I will answer his letter when I get the first
chance. Also tell those other two mopes to write, you know M&M. Well so long
sweetheart and God bless you and don't worry I am all right and will be.
4. June 17, 1944. Camp Perry On the back of the envelope is
written iA2BMandC2BNtheAof the MIL the D2BL the IT2BL and theN2BSYL. Answer next
week, see if you can figure it out). See Letter #7
Dear Mom, June 15, 1944
I received a letter from Bob and he said you wanted to know
more about our life at camp, well here it goes. First of all USNT&DC means
United States Naval Training and Distribution Camp. In other words they train us
and then send us to other camps. Well when we arrived they took us over to chow
and then the gear. Noon to get our bed clothes and toilet articles and a set of
dungarees and high shoes. We were then assigned to our barracks for one night
only. The next day we were issued the rest of our gear and shipped to our
assigned areas. Upon arriving there we got our orders for what should be done
and where and why. Then we had to roll our clothes and put shoes in our sea
bags. Rolling is the way the Navy presses clothes and if done right they look
all right.
Well now to tell you of our duties. We get up at 5:30 wash
and get dressed, make our bunks and fall in for muster and go to chow by 6:55.
After chow we hang around till 8:00. Then we drill till 11:30. Go to chow again
and have mail call and drill from 1:00 to 4:30. Then we are forced to wash our
clothes and do whatever has to be done. We have chow again at 6:24 and then we
get dressed in our whites and go to the movies or some other amusement. We have
a bowling alley, swimming pool, library, recreation hall, and ship service. That
is where we get our cigarettes, candy, books and other odds and ends. Well that
went on for 10 days. Then we were assigned to dear old KP. There is 45 fellows
assigned from the 2 barracks in our company. This consists of serving the food,
cleaning decks, bulkheads (walls), and windows, pots and pans and also dishes.
First we arrive in the Mess Hall at 4:45 after getting up at 3:30. What an
ungodly hour, boy I'm fagged out. Get the chow ready for the 25,000 men in our
area, eat ourselves, then we clean up mop and scrub the decks and are free from
8:30 till 10:30. That is if you are in the mess hall. But in the galley you stay
from 4:15 till 5:00PM with no leave at all. And that goes on for 5 days. I
worked in the galley for 2 days now I am in the chow line and I get off from
8:30 to 10:30 as I said before and from 1:30 to 4:30 and quit at 7:00 each night
before we retire at 9:30. We take a shower and get ready for bed. Our smoking
periods are from after morning chow till 8:00 and from 12:00 to 1:00 and 4:30
till 9:00. Well that is about all we have done so far. We have not yet received
our shots. Next week I think we will have the manual of arms, you know marching
with a gun and knowing when to shift it from one shoulder to another in the Navy
manner. Then we will most likely have sentry duty. Oh by the way, our barracks
is inspected every day except Sunday and we are noted fair, good, excellent and
unsatisfactory. We have Mass on Sunday at 7:30 and we are allowed to sleep till
6:30 on Sunday and are free for the day. On Saturdays we have personal
inspection and are free from 12:00 on. So you see it is not so bad. The hardest
thing about this place is to keep from getting home sick.
Well Mom that is our camp life thus far. I will give you more
details as they come. Oh I forgot, our barracks is scrubbed twice daily.
Well mom to get down to you, how are you and the kids and
Marion. I hope you all are in the best of health and I hope you are not worrying
too much about me as I am in good hands.
By the way, have you found out from the kids as to who
wrecked Mart's bike, if so let me know.
Gee mom you don't know how much I miss you especially also
the kids and Marion. I only hope I am home in time to go to the shore but as
things stand I will not but you have a good time anyway.
Let me know what time you get home because I intend to call
in McDowells. It will only cost $1.40. That is not bad considering the distance,
almost 400 miles. So if your hear from me that way do not think that anything is
wrong. Also tell me the night or day to call.
Well so long sweetheart and give my regards to all and how is
Goss, where is his address, well so long again. Your loving son, Jack (The Old
Salt)
P.S. I received your packages and thanks a million. I really
appreciate them, so long again.
Dear Mom, June 16,1994
I just received your letter today and it did not tire me out
reading it. That is the kind of letter I love to receive especially from you.
Well now the answers to your questions. 1st I like
the Navy very much except for being away from those I love. 2nd DC
means Distribution Camp which I told you in my last long letter which you have
not received. 3rd I have not yet been turned or knocked out of my
sack or bed. You know it is much easier when the whole crowd gets up at one time
than when you get up by yourself in one bedroom. Well that answers your
questions I hope but if you want any more info on what I am doing, write and I
will tell you.
And about that allotment. I did say that the money you got
from dad's insurance was pretty well exhausted as you had planned for me to be
able to work by now. I didn't tell them that dad was an insurance man or
anything about the check. All the rest you know about I hope. Write and tell me
what you are going to put in the letter. I also am sending my life insurance
policy receipt for you to keep and read.
Mom, what is the idea of mentioning beer. Don't you know we
have not had a glass or smell in two weeks. Oh you are heartless.
I received letters from Paul Ward and Dot Fogarty yesterday
and Dot's was a 4 page type written letter of the news in the Fogarty Mansion
and the Bulletin for the news of the world.
By the way, how can I write to Goss if I don't have his
address. By and by I think you are losing your memory and it couldn't be old age
could it or is it that you are worried. I hope not.
Now for some bad news. I have not been using up all my
proteins and I will go to the hospital next week if my urine is not negative.
They are testing for aluminum but don't worry I'll be all right. If not I will
let you know.
Well Mom I don't have much time so I will be saying so long
sweetheart as I am off to do some more KP. Give my love to all and don't worry I
am all right, honestly. Loving you always, Commander Jack, The Old Salt.
5. June 20, 1944. Camp Perry
Dear Mom, June 18, 1944
Well here it is Sunday and only two weeks and a few days from
home but it seems a heck of a lot longer.
Well mom how are you and all the rest of the clan. I am fine
but slowly melting away with the heat. Just to give you an idea how hot it is,
they lot us off for the day with no drilling or anything because so many guys
were keeling over. I guess it is about 115
and I am not kidding. You should be here would you be shocked, every one,
including me is bare---. I just got finished washing my clothes and taking a
nice cold shower, and brushed my teeth and mom you should see my fingernails.
They are actually long. I guess it's because I haven't had time to bite them.
But I am glad, maybe it will break me of the habit.
We are having a smoking night tonight so I hear and there
will be FREE BEER and cigarettes and acrobatic shows, etc. Here is hoping it is
just not a lot of talk.
Oh and by the way we are off KP- is that a relief boy my
a--was dragging and I don't mean from sitting on it I mean work. Just think me,
me of all people, getting up at 3:30AM when it used to be 12:00 at home. Boy
this Navy will make a man of me yet.
Dot Fogarty sent me a card from Bookbinders asking if I would
join them in a seafood dinner. She is almost as heartless as you when you
mention beer. Bill Moore is writing and asks me to tell you to have two cases of
beer and put them in snow so they will be really cold when we arrive.
I also received a letter from Mom Fogarty and Mary Louise
Hugues. Mom said that Bob left for Cumberland, he is now in the USArmy. Boy will
he find it different from civilian life. I know I did.
About getting home, Mom there is still no exact date but they
still say August 9th. I hope they are wrong because this is hell. I
will try to get a poem the chief has and send it to you. It explains the place
perfectly but I still think it will make a man of me.
I guess Bob Miller has left by now. If he sends you his
address please send it to me even if he is in Camp Perry as we could still write
to each other because we are not allowed out of our unit.
Well sweetheart I guess this is all for now and don't forget
to write. Also tell Marion not to get back into that no letter writing
association she has been in for so long. And I will write to Gene and Mart
sometime this week. Give my love to all and I miss you very much. Your loving
son, Jack, The Old Salt
Also included was a letter to Mom from Bill Moore:
Hello Mom! Jack stared this letter but he got stuck so I'm
taking up where he left off. I'm Bill Moore and I met you down at 13th
street. Well Mrs. Morgan, Jack is doing all right here, the only trouble is I
have to wake him up every morning and then later on in the day, I have to help
him with the wash. I just have to look after him like a big brother. But I don't
mind it so much because Jack is just like my younger brother in the Navy who is
19. I always had to look after him too. I guess you think I'm an old man, but
I'm 22 yrs. old and just as wild as Jack.
We've been having a swell time down here except they make us
take too many orders. Boy we certainly will be glad when we get done our boot.
Well Mrs. Morgan I haven't got much more to say so I'll sign
off. So long Mom, Bill.
6. June 22, 1944. Camp Perry.
Hello Mom, June 21, 1944
This letter is going to be rather glum because I am now in
the hospital and am as if my arm was cut off. I am so miserable I could cry and
I guess before long I will be. They won't tell me what is the matter or how long
I will be here. Honestly Mom, I wish I were home. I am so disgusted with this
shit that it is not even funny. But don't worry I will be all right even if it
takes longer than we both hope.
There were 6 other fellows that came in with me so I won't be
alone with nothing but white walls and everything else. He, the doctor, told us
we are to stay in bed for three days. What we will have done to us is another
military secret. All I know is that I have aluminum in my urine, whatever that
is.
Well Mom let's try and cheer this letter up a bit.. How are
you and the rest of the folks? I received Marion's letter just before I left the
barracks and was never so glad to receive a letter especially from home.
Oh, by the way, I have just seen the FIRST pair of woman's
legs since I arrived in camp. The damned nurses. She is ugly as blue mud, no
kidding but she is built nice.
Well mom I guess I will sign off now. So long sweetheart and
give my regards to all, and tell them to say a few prayers that I get out of
this hospital.
Your disgusted son, Jack
7. June 24, 1944. Camp Perry
Hello Sweetheart, June 23, 1944
How are you? Fine I hope. Well mom how do you feel about
having an invalid son HaHa. Mom I don't know how I am going to take this but I
may get a medical discharge. But I am not sure so don't let anyone see this
letter. I am hoping for the best. You know I might get to go down the shore with
you yet but if it is with a MD I hope I never see Wildwood or any other place. I
know it is no disgrace to get a discharge but that is not what I want and I
doubt if it's what you want either.
I have not yet found out how I am but no news is good news, I
hope. We have our urine tested every day and it is classified; negative, trace
or 1+, 2+, 3+, 4+. If it is 4+ for 4 days you go home. If it is negative for 4
days you go back to boots. Anything else you stay here till they either come
negative or 4+ for 4 days in succession.
Well sweetheart take care of yourself and don't worry. Your
son, Jack
Dear Mom, June 24, 1944
Well here it is Saturday and I just received your letter. The
last two letters I wrote probably have you worried sick. I am sorry but I know
for positive that I am all right and will return to boot camp tomorrow Sunday
and I am so happy. I don't even think of a discharge anymore. Honest mom I am
all right so you can stop worrying.
As you know I entered the hospital on Wednesday and go back
Sunday so I will still be with my same company and is that a relief. Boy I
thought that I would in the end either get a MD or have to start my boot all
over again so I guess you can see or imagine how happy I am. Boy is that a
relief.
Well mom you could not figure the code iA2BM and C2B in the A
of the MIL. The D2BL, the K2BL and the N2BSYL. Well here is the answer.
I am to be married and carried to bed in the arms of the man
I love. The door to be locked the key to be lost and the night to be seven years
long.
How do you like it. Some girl wrote that to Bill Moore. It
took him a week to get the answer out of her.
Mom, about that homesickness. I am getting used to it now but
about the shore I still don't know but I hope I will make it. In the Navy that
is all you can do, hope.
Have you found out anything about who wrecked Mart's bike? If
so let me know.
Well mom give my love to all and you can stop worrying about
my aluminum. I bet that is a relief to your weary and worried heart. So long
sweetheart and remember I miss all of you more than words can express.
Your loving son, Jack.
P.S. Tell Aunt Anne I haven't forgotten her and will write
soon.
8. July 2, 1944. Camp Perry
Fourth of July traditional observance canceled. Camp
commander James G. Ware asks each man to rededicate himself to the war effort.
9. July 5, 1944. Camp Perry to Miss Marion G. McCann
Hello Marion, July 4, 1944
Well here it is the fourth and this is one day I will not
forget. Just to give you an idea of what we did I will tell you our schedule.
First we had two shots, don't get me wrong, I mean in the arm, which made my arm
so still we can't move it from the shoulder to the elbow. After that we had two
hours of extended order drill, that is trying to capture the enemy. Boy what a
hellish time we had throwing ourselves in all kinds of swamps, etc. and to top
it all off we had to carry rifles during this and that made 12 more lbs. to lug.
After that we had two hours of physical training so we knocked hell out of each
other again and the rest of the time was spent drilling.
Oh by the way, we had our first good meal since our arrival
today. I am enclosing the menu so you can see for yourself. That was at noon.
For supper we had I slice of salami and potato salad, iced coffee and melted
jello. That is what our meals are usually like and I am not kidding.
Well Marion we received another big pay of $3.00 and it came
just at the right time as I was pretty low but what I have will last me, I hope.
I just paused for a nice refreshing shower and am kind of
naked writing this but with this heat it is very comfortable. All I have on is
shoes.
We had our smoker and Bill Moore fought and was held to a
draw so that wasn't too bad and the gang collected $12 and split it between him,
a George McKilroy, who beat the living ---- out of another guy. All I did was
sit in the stands and drink 4 whole bottles of beer and smoke butts, cigarettes
to you. And they were not OPS either but the beer was that 3.2 stuff, more like
water than anything else.
I know for sure now that I will not be at the shore with you
people. But have a good time anyway because you know I wouldn't be with you and
Mom except during the day then I would go wolfing and you two would hit the cold
spots, or would you. But please leave me the address just in case I should get
home between the 10th and 24th and also the key to the mansion in McDowells. But
as I said before, I bought it.
Give my love to all and take care of that ring and please
tell me if you still have it. Love, Jack
10. July 7, 1944. USNTC Sampson NY (with a hand
drawn caricature of Mom on the back)
To Mrs. Morgan from Bob Miller (a boy who lived up the street
and died the same time as Jack)
Hello Mrs. Morgan & Marion, Tuesday, July 6th
You'll have to excuse me for not writing sooner but you know
the Navy and how they keep you going.
I've been through two rough weeks with the needles and
cleaning clothes and everything but I suppose Jack went through the same thing.
This really isn't a bad life. We all do a lot of griping just to pass the time
away. I'm with a bunch of nice fellows and we really have a lot of fun.
It's hot up here in the day time but it's nice and cool for
sleeping at night. From Mother's letters I see that it's pretty hot in Philly.
We drill part of the day and go to classes for the rest.
After 4:30 is supposed to be our own time but they always find things for us to
do. Tonight we had to get our pictures taken so this doesn't leave much time for
the rest of the night.
How is Jack making out? I've written him a card and a letter
but haven't received an answer as yet. When do you think Jack will get home?
Maybe I'll get home the same time as he will. I expect to get home between the 8th
or 22nd of August.
Have you seen Mother lately? How is she? Write and let me
know how she is taking it.
I'll have to cut this letter short because I have to write a
few more letters before we turn in.
Your friend, Bob the Gob
11. July 13, 1944. Camp Perry to Mom c/o Harry S. Lennox, 101
West 24th St., Wildwood, NJ
Dear Mom, July 12, 1944
Oh how I envy you. While you are relaxing on the beach or in
the spots, guess what I am doing? You could never guess so I will tell you.
Guard Duty - 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. Boy I doubt if I have had 10 hours
sleep since Saturday night. This is even worse than KP. Say mom you don't have
an easy job around such as; paint a house, fix a roof, dig the lawn or something
do you? And to think I used to kick at those little chores. Boy am I the one who
should have been kicked.
I received a letter from Aunt Peg and all she did was give me
hell because I put "On the House" on the envelope. Hasn't she any
sense of joking. Boy I was so damn mad I didn't even finish the letter.
Mom I received your packages and money. Thanks loads but you
know you are over stepping that budget. You should be ashamed but I still
appreciate it.
Well mom here I go again. I am on guard duty to 12:00PM So
since it is now 8:00PM I will have to say so long and good night. Give my
regards to all. And I miss you more than words can say. Love, Jack
P.S. Say hello to Grandmother for me and I will write to her
later and tell Marion I am not worried about the ring as I know she will take
care of it. Good-bye now, Jack
12. July 20, 1944. Camp Perry to Wildwood
Dear Mom, July 15, 1944
I received your letter yesterday and was glad to hear from
you. I have written you one letter before this one and sent it to Wildwood. Hope
you received it.
Well mom last evening we said so long to, in my estimation,
one of the nicest and sweetest fellows I guess I will meet in my Navy career. He
was our chief, he was made an Ensign and the only reason he took the commission
was to get out of Camp Perry. We were talking to other chiefs and they said he
will never make a good officer because he is a chief at heart. He did feel
pretty good about going but said the only thing he regretted was that he could
not see us graduate from boot. So evidently he was rather proud of our company.
But why shouldn't he be, he made us what we are and as far as I am concerned I
was never so close to being a man in all my life.
Just think mom only 16 hours more of guard duty for awhile.
But we have KP coming up again. We will have to have it from the 31st
of July till the 7th of August. Just think we have 25 more days to
go. When you come to think of it, it isn't too long and then we will get 10 days
and 8 hours leave. But I bet that time goes like hell and the hardest part will
be coming back to dear old Perry.
Mom you remember Patrick Henry, the guy said give me liberty
or give me death. Well now I know why he said it. He came from Williamsburg Va.
The same place where Camp Perry is.
Mom have you heard or received anything about my allotment.
Because if not I will go topside and try and find out what is the trouble and
let you know. Because there is a chance we might not get it and then I would
have to change the setup. You know I give $22 and the Govt gives $18.75
I hope the weather at Wildwood is good because it has done
nothing but rain constantly for the last 3 days and it doesn't look like it will
clear for a while. And just think I am walking in it 4 hours at a time. What a
life.
My clothes are so damn dirty they are about to fall apart.
When I get off guard I can't get the damn things off fast enough to get away
from the odor. I had most of them on the line when this rain started and now
they won't dry for nothing. Here is hoping for clear weather or at least one
drying day.
Well mom have a good time for the rest of your vacation and I
will see you August 9th. But there is no chance to get home before
that so I guess we will have to wait patiently. Give my love to all and I miss
you very much. Love, Jack
Dear Mom, July 19, 1944
How are you enjoying your vacation? I hope everything is
running smooth.
Well mom you know how I have been complaining about the Navy
food. Well it came to a climax last night when our area was struck with
tomaign(sic) poisoning and I was one of the casualties but I am all right now.
It came on us about 9:00 last night and when we arrived at sick bay they gave us
something to make us throw up and did we. Then we get cramps in our stomachs so
they gave us some paragoric and did that do the trick. I just hit the head or
bathroom when it took effect. I shit, pissed and threw up all at the same time
and I could do nothing but laugh between the grunts and groans. At about 11:00 I
was cleaned out and they asked for volunteers for ambulance drivers so I
volunteered. I thought I had it bad but you should have seen some of the others.
They had internal hemorages(sic) and they were nothing but blood from head to
foot. We were transferring the very bad cases to the Station Hospital and we
were on the go till 7:00 this morning so they gave us the day off to rest up.
Kind of them wasn't it?
I guess you were wondering why our area was the only one hit.
It is because each area has its own chow hall. Even the cooks, chiefs and
officers got it. I think this little episode will wake those damn cooks up. At
least it ought to. Especially since they got it too.
Well mom, I guess that is all for now and between you and me
I am getting more disgusted with Camp Perry every meal time and that is three
times a day. And tell the kids they better eat good food while they get it and
if they don't eat everything, and I mean everything, I am going to raise merry
hell with them. Give my love to all and I will be home in exactly 3 weeks today.
God bless you all. Love, Jack
13. August 8, 1944. Camp Perry
Dear Mom, July 31, 1944
Gee I was glad to hear your voice and now more than ever
can't wait until I get home.
The only regret I have is that the time went so damn fast but
I will be home in nine more days if everything goes well and I think it will.
Mom we had our dress parade today and we really looked good.
There we were in mass formation but I (had) the feeling that it was just me
alone that was passing in review and tried my best to do everything right. I
guess I wasn't the only one that thought that way. And for the first time I
really felt I was part of the Navy.
Well mom I am on KP again and back in the galley again. What
a life. But I still wouldn't trade it for any other service.
Mom please excuse this writing as I have a banged up finger.
And I will say so long because duty (KP) calls me. Give my regards to all and I
will see you on the 9th. Love, Jack
14. August 23, 1944. Camp Perry
Dear Mom,
Not much time left. We are about to leave for ports unknown.
Don't worry. I will be all right and will wire you upon arrival. Your son, Jack
15. August 29, 1944. 1stBatt Bks.0135 USNRB Shoemaker Calif
Stamped AirMail for 8 cents! (Back of envelope: To my mother
please rush. Like Hell)
Dear Mom, Aug. 28, 1944
Here I am over 3,000 miles away from you and don't know when
I will ever see you again. Gee mom you don't know how tough it is going to be
for me.
There is a lot of talk that we will be here in California for
about 3 weeks then we will go to Treasure Island and be there about 72 hours and
head for Pearl Harbor get our equipment and head for the islands as a clean up
crew. Whatever that is. But don't worry, God will watch over me and bring me
home to you again. Don't talk about what I just said because it is very
confidential.
Well I have seen plenty of the United States. Since I last
saw you I have traveled through: Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia,
Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada and am now
in California. A hell of a lot of territory in my language. We are 40 miles from
San Francisco. But will not get near it for at least 96 more hours. The scenery
from Colorado is nothing but mountains except for a few ranches and shacks. Last
night we passed through Reno and it is quite a place. We also crossed the great
Salt Lake. Boy there is enough salt there to keep the world supplied. I think it
is 30 miles wide and 75 miles long. I mean it is a hell of a big place and I am
not fooling. Gee mom there is so much I want to say but just can't think of
anything but home, you and the kids and Marion, boy do I miss all of you.
Mom I am sending you my address but when you write put a
return address on it just in case I am not here when it arrives because it will
not follow me to my next destination.
Just in case my last letter did not get to you, tell Marion I
wish her a happy birthday.
Well mom I guess that is about all for now so I will say so
long sweetheart and take care of yourself and give my love to all and tell Goss
I was asking for him. Your loving son, Jack
16. August 31, 1944. Shoemaker Calif
Dear Mom, Aug 31, 1944
How are you and the rest of the family? Fine I hope.
Well mom I guess I may as well tell you we had our overseas
physical exam yesterday and got our dog tags this morning at 5:00. We are now
going out for muster in a few minutes so I will continue when I return, OK?
Well here I am again, sorry to have kept you waiting. Well I
am not on the draft so I guess I will still be here for a few more days.
Mom if and when I do go I will send a telegram from here and
if I go out to the islands and you receive a telegram from me study it closely
because I will in some way try to let you know where I am. If I say Pearl you
know I mean Pearl Harbor. Or if I say I am wide awake, you will know I am on
Wake Island, and so forth, so don't forget to study them.
I expect to go on liberty at 12:30 and work in the cannery in
Oakland. Funds are rather low and no pay days as yet. No mom I am not hinting
for money because I know you can't afford it. Any way I will be making a $1 an
hour and I am at liberty for 24 hrs. so I will have a few bucks. So don't send
it because I probably won't receive it before I leave for the deep blue.
Well I guess that will be all for now as life here is pretty
dull. So I will say so long sweetheart and take care of yourself and don't worry
too much I will be all right. Give my love to all. Your loving son, Jack.
17. September 4, 1944. From Bob Miller at Sampson NY
Dear Mrs. Morgan Sept 3rd
I'm sorry I didn't write sooner but you know how it is
getting back to camp and getting on to the routine of things again. We aren't
quite situated yet. I move to another horrible barracks tomorrow. This will be
the fourth barracks I've been in since coming back.
Do you remember me saying that I was praying to get situated
at Electric School here at Sampson. Well my prayers have been answered. I'll be
stationed here for the next sixteen weeks.
Have you found out where Jack went to yet? There were quite a
few fellows from here who went to California last week.
Well I finally got KP but I don't mind it at all. We hand out
the food. I handed out donuts for breakfast, ice cream & cake for dinner and
cookies for supper. We work from 5:15 in the morning till about 6:00 at night
with a few hours off in between meals. I expect to be on KP until next Saturday.
Remember me to Marion and all. I'm going to close now as I
have a few more letters to write.
The Mess Hall Kid, Bob
P.S. Don't forget to write and send Jack's address
18. September 6, 1944. Shoemaker, Calif
Dear Mom, Sept 6, 1944
I received your letter yesterday and it is the only one I
have received since I went home for boot leave so you can imagine how happy I
was, especially hearing from my mom.
Well mom how are you and how did you enjoy your trip to New
York with Goss. You know mom maybe you would persuade him to take you to
Shoemaker California. But then again I guess I would not be here by the time you
arrived. But tell Goss thanks for the suggestion HaHa.
I have had three 24 hour passes since I have been here and I
have met up with quite a few girls and they are really swell. The other night I
stayed at Loraine Ramsay's home for the evening and her mother treated me swell,
boy she could not give me enough. So she thought, she fed me so much food that
it almost came out of my ears. And whenever I am on leave I can go down to her
place and stay. Prity(sic) nice or what. But don't worry mom the girl is
strictly on the up and up.
By the way mom if you have Bob Miller's address please send
it to me as I lost the one I had. He is probably calling me everything under the
sun for not writing but I will catch up to him.
Mom I am going to wire for some money today so I guess I
better explain why. Well it is like this, our pay chits did not arrive from
Perry and it will be a couple of weeks or a month before we are straightened out
and I am pretty short otherwise I would not have sent home because I know you
can't spare it and when I get caught up I will send it back to you OK? Thanks
mom.
Well mom life is pretty much the same in California as it was
in Perry only better. We get a 24 hour pass every other night.
I guess that is about all sweetheart. By the way how does
Mart like West and how is he making out and how is Gene making out in the 5th
grade? And mom don't let Mart hand you the bull---- that he doesn't have any
homework because I know better and tell him for me to make up for what I did by
graduating and I don't mean just passing. I mean with honors. I know he can do
it and even if he thinks it isn't worth it tell him that it might be the last
favor that he can ever do for me. And he is letting the best person in the world
down and tell Gene the same. I guess I sound like a preacher but mom I know what
it means to quit school and also let down the person that you really love. So
tell them to take the tip and I think they will. And I know they can do it. Just
as well as you do.
Well as I am about run out of material I will say so long and
please take care of yourself. Give my love to all. And remind the kids of how
important it is that they make good. Your loving son, Jack
September 7, 1944. Western Union Shoemaker Calif
Mrs. Martha Morgan, 1404 S. Vodges Street
Dear Mom I hate to ask you for money because I know how short
you are but I would like you to send as much as possible. I really need it.
Thank you. Your son, Jack
September 7, 1944. Western Union Shoemaker Calif
Mrs. Martha Morgan, 1404 S. Vodges Street
Dear Mom: Received money. Thanks. We are about to be shipped
(to)a new base. Will wire upon arrival.
Love, Jack
19. September 13, 1944. Treasure Island, California
Dear Mom, Sept 12, 1944
Sorry that I did not write sooner since I wired you last but
since then we were moved here to Treasure Island and have done nothing but pack
and unpack our gear, no kidding mom our hands are raw from tugging at the ropes
which secure our hammocks and seabags. But we are now set for a while I think.
We are waiting on our ship. We are told it is a destroyer and from the looks of
the posters around I am beginning to believe it.
Mom I had a dream the other night and in it there was Aunt
Peg, Uncle Joe and you and Paul Ward and Marty. It seems the war was over and I
signed up for a 4 year hitch and was home on leave and there was some
controversy about Paul and Mart keeping 17 dollars that Aunt Peg and Uncle Joe
gave them to give me but I never received it. And I recall you giving me a quart
of wine while you went to the kitchen to talk to Peg and Joe. I finished the
wine and you told me about the 12 dollars and I started to fight with everyone
then you tried to consoul(sic) me. And I can recall saying " I did not know
why I ever came home. I guess it was just to be with you. I hate everyone
else!" Well mom there it is. I guess it was my conscience telling me to
write.
Mom did you get the pillow case I sent you? I hope so. How
are the kids making out in school? Tell the kids I am counting on them to stick
it out as I said in my last letter. And I hope they don't let us down.
Especially you mom because I know how much you are counting on them and so am I
for that matter.
So far two birthdays have passed since I have gone. Marion's
August 25 and Gene's Sept 9 and yours will be up directly not far off. October
16. Well I will catch up with them soon and please tell Marion I haven't
forgotten her and will write her and also the kids.
Gee mom during the day when you are working you can think of
a million and one things to say but when you get the chance to write you can't
think of a damned thing.
Mom I will tell you a little about Treasure Island just to
have something to write about. Well we are situated in the San Francisco Bay
close to Alkatraz(sic), the prison which they say is escape proof and we can see
the Golden Gate. It is in the place where the Frisco World's Fair was held. In
fact we are living in the exhibition buildings. Our barracks has a large statue
of a viking in a ship named Discovery. Being a relic of the World's Fair I guess
you can imagine how large this place really is. Boy you can get lost in 5
minutes and that is no lie.
Well mom I guess there is no use telling you how much I miss
you and the rest of the family because I think you know. In fact I know you do.
I guess that is all for now. I will write again soon. So long sweetheart and
give my love to all. Your loving but negligent son, Jack
20. September 20, 1944. Treasure Island
To my darling Mother, 19 Sept 1944
Well mom how are you, fine I hope. And how did you like your
trip to New York. How is Marion and the kids. In the pink of condition I hope.
Well mom now for the news. I have been out to sea for three
days. Got back Sunday and was I sick. Good God I thought I would never be all
right again. But I am and that is all that counts. I was aboard a destroyer
minelayer, the kind I will be assigned to. My ship's name is the Aaron Ward. I
can't tell you anything about it as yet except that when we leave the US we
won't be back for a hell of a long time. We will have a home base out at sea
somewhere. I will tell you what we will be doing as far as I dare tell. Our
first object is to hit and hit hard and run like hell. We will be all alone
doing our special tasks and when we are out of ammunition we will have to go
back for more. A pretty ticklish job or what.
I am now going to school. I will be there for 3 weeks and
then we prepare to go sailing for good.
That is all for now except it would be nice to hear from you
once in a while. How about it mom I have not received one letter from you since
you got back from New York. Have you been on a honeymoon or something? No
kidding mom if I don't get a letter from you soon I will go crazy. You know I
would like to know how you and the folks are. So long sweetheart and please for
my sake write soon, this is about my 8th letter to you.
Love, Jack
P.S. Don't worry about me just write. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
21. September 28, 1944. Treasure Island
My darling Mother, Sept. 25, 1944
I was more than glad to have heard from you. I received your
letters of Sept 8 and 21 today and was so glad I actually took a walk to the Bay
and cried. Today is the first time I heard from you since Sept 8 when I left
Shoemaker. I was beginning to think that you were ill or got married or
something. No kidding mom if I hadn't received any mail by Wednesday Sept 27 I
was going to get in touch with the Red Cross to see if anything was wrong. I was
really worried.
Mom you asked me what I was doing and what I will be doing in
the future so I will tell you just in case I didn't tell you before.
Right now I am going to D.P.O. School (Deck Petty Officer)
which will last till Saturday Sept 30. Then we will go to gunnery school for a
week to learn about the nomenclature and parts of a 20 and 40 millimeter guns.
Then I will go to Point Manteras for the actual firing of these guns. We will be
there from Sunday till Sunday. Then we are supposed to go on another shakedown
cruise on the USS Foot for from 3 days to a week. Then we will go to either San
Pedro Calif for our ship, the USS Aaron Ward or it will be brought to us with a
skeleton crew. Then we will go on a ten day shakedown aboard her and again come
back to the States for whatever has to be done. Then there is a lot of talk
about a leave. It is not authentic as far as I know but if I send home for $75
you know I will be homeward bound for a few days. I hope so because when we go
out we won't be back for a hell of a long time. Our job is to lay mines and our
base will be out in the middle of the deep blue Pacific somewhere. But don't
worry mom with the help of God and our fighting I will be back. And mom don't
think for one moment that I won't. Because I will be back mom I know I will.
Sept 27, 1944
Sorry to have delayed this letter so long but we are in a new
barracks and are supposed to use a new address. But the hell with it, it is too
much trouble changing it so I will leave it as is.
Mom you also asked me to look up Jerry. Well I would like to
but I will need his last mailing address and from that I will be able to find
out where he is. Mom do you have any idea of Father Jack's address? I would also
like to look him up. If you have any information concerning these matters please
notify me at once, unquote.
Well mom I was glad to hear that Mart is finally showing an
interest in school. Tell him for me that I think it is swell and to keep up the
good work. But what is wrong with the kid (Gene). Don't tell me he is going to
let me down. I hope not. Tell him I am counting on him to get at his lessons and
make something of himself. I mean it Gene I am not fooling. You are now starting
work that you will have to know all your life. I know you think it is a lot of
hooey but it isn't and I want to a hear a better report about you next time. How
about it Gene, I know you can do it so just try a little harder. You won't be
sorry for it.
How is your boiler, does it work or couldn't they get it in
without my genius help HaHa. Boy I bet that is a relief. Just think no more
rusty water.
This is for you alone mom.
If by any chance you get a chance to marry Goss I think it
would be very foolish of you to refuse. Mom a man like that only comes around
once in a while. And if the occasion does not arise, stick by him. I doubt very
much if you will ever get stung. And between you and me I think you would marry
him. Tell him I was asking for him.
How is Marion G., is she still on the go all the time? And
how is her beer situation, has it improved any? Boy would I like to be home
drinking with you people now and I will in a little while. Give Marion my love
and tell her I have not forgotten her even though it may seem that way.
Mom about Aunt Anna's eyes, do you think she would undergo an
operation if you could get it done by the Navy department? And to be frank with
you I think I can. I know it will be hard trying to find out but I will see what
I can do on this end. I will let you know as soon as I find out and I will write
her tomorrow night Sept28.
I guess that is all for now sweetheart so I will sign off.
Give my love to all and please take care of yourself. And tell Gene again to
step on it and get ahead in his studies and tell Mart to keep up the good work.
Your son, Jack
22. October 5, 1944. USS Aaron Ward at Treasure Island
Dear Mom, Oct 4, 1944
I don't know whether I should write you thinking of what you
said in your letter of Sept 29, you know about coming to Calif to see what was
wrong. You know mom if I thought that you would I would throw away all the
writing material and be waiting at the main gate for you. Gee you don't know how
much I miss all of you. It was pretty bad at base camp but at least I knew I
would be home in a little while but out here only God knows when I will see you
again but I know I will see you so that makes it a little better.
Mom I see you are numbering your letters. Well I received all
three of them and this is my third since we got straightened out. I wrote my
second the day I received yours and it was pretty long. Did you get it? I hope
so because it is the details of what I am doing and will be doing for a little
while. Right now we are at gunnery school studying the 40 millimeter water
cooled anti-aircraft gun which I will be assigned to aboard the ship. And
believe me mom I am going to know that thing from right to left and inside out
because that is what is going to help me get back to see you and the rest of the
family. I would like to tell you about it but it would take an expert to make it
sound sensible and I am no expert yet. Note that yet. But I hope to be as soon
as I can.
Mom did I tell you they asked for strikers for different
rates and electrician's mate was one of them so I put in for it. Pray my darling
that I get it because it is what I have been hoping for since I came into the
Navy. And I think I have a good chance but pray with me anyway.
You know mom we have been asking each other to pray for so
many things that pretty soon we will be two holyrollers but it won't do us any
harm will it?
How is Mart making out? Is he still keeping up the good work?
I hope so. And shake his hand for me for not letting Issie give him a lousy
deal. Boy you won't pull anything over on Mart, not by a long shot. And how is
Gene, has he showed any improvement or is he going to let me down. I hope not
because I am counting on him just as much as I am Mart to make their mother
proud of them. Time out for a smoke while I try and think. Strange as that may
seem.
Reading through your letter I see you asked me about
Christmas presents. Well I don't know when we will be leaving but I will try and
find out. Wait a minute I am going to see the Old Man.
Well mom here is the dope. We are to be shipped to San Pedro
Calif. By the twenty-eight of this month then we will be there for about a week
or so then go to Pearl Harbor for about 12 days and come back for our yard
period at Pedro so he says. He says we have a very good chance of being in the
States for Christmas so we will count on it OK? And about the ID bracelet, I
would love to have one. And if you decide to get it have it made up this way.
Put U.S.N. on the top, my name in the middle and my serial no. (921-44-42) on
the bottom. Please. You also asked what else I would like well take a seat
because here it comes. I would like dear Santa Clause to bring me a sheath
knife, a waterproof flashlight and a wrist watch, that is all. I know what you
are thinking, what the hell does he think I am, a mint? But you asked me and I
told you. Always obliging in that way.
Well I will close saying I love and miss you all. And tell
Grandmother I was asking for her and give her my love also. Your son, Jack
P.S. I have to change addresses so take notice on the
envelope
23. October 5, 1944. USS Aaron Ward at Treasure Island To:
Master Eugene T.P. Morgan
Dear Gene, Oct 5, 1944
I just received your letter and am glad to hear that you are
making an improvement in your studies.
Because if you weren't you would never have been allowed to
become an altar boy. So keep up the good work.
You know Gene I always wanted to be an altar boy but with the
changing of school never had the chance. You know Gene it is a great honor to
serve on the altar and I know you will stay there by keeping up your studies.
I wrote my third letter to mother last night, I hope she
receives it.
How is Marion, is she going crazy with mother trying to teach
you Latin or is Marty helping you. You know he has Latin as one of his subjects,
at least I think he has. I know I did.
Well Gene I have to get back to school now, or didn't you
know I was a school boy again, but we are going to gunnery school and seamen's
school, entirely different from West Catholic or MBS. But we have to study and
know just as much and maybe more to pass.
I will close now. Keep up the good work and give my love to
all and write again soon.
Your Brother, Admiral Jack J. Morgan U.S.N., The Old Salt
24. October 18, 1944. USS Aaron Ward at Treasure Island
Dear Mom, Oct 18, 1944
Well here I am again after over a week lapse in
correspondence. I guess you thought I had forgotten you well I did not as you
can see.
We went to Point Manteras since last Sunday and got back here
Monday evening. We were on the go constantly day and night so that is why I did
not write. I will tell you what my job is and what we did all day. First I am a
trainer on a 40mm anti-aircraft quad mount. My job is to see that me and the
Pointer get the plains(sic) down and if we miss it, it is our fault. Our gun has
4 barrels on it, each firing 120 shells per minute and believe you me they make
one hell of a noise. We have our ears stuffed with cotton and it still is loud.
Our training consisted of ½ school and ½ firing. We were taught to take the
mount down to its smallest part and put it back together again. But the thing
that got me was that right after we got finished knocking it down and putting it
back together again we had to fire it. Boy those first few shells and everyone
was ready to get the hell out of there fast. But after that we were all right.
We fired approximately 500 rounds of ammunition on the average of 75 a day. We
were shooting at a sleeve trailing an airplane and knocked it down 4 times in
the course of the week. You may think that is lousy but the Navy thinks it is
good. After all we were never in the mount for actual firing.
When we got back to TI we thought that they would give us a
day or so of rest but hell no. We no sooner got up when they told us we were
going to firefighters school for two days. We finished up today. Good God I hope
we don't have to go through that out at sea. We fought everything from a bonfire
to an engine room or boiler room fire and was it hot. It is in a confined space
covered with burning oil and blazing like all hell and we have to go in and put
it out. The smoke gets so thick that you can hardly see the flames until they
damn near burn you. Then when the fire is put out we have to stand in that smoke
till the signal is given that everything is OK. And when you come out after that
damn near choking to death we have to roll up the hose and go to another fire.
This goes on one right after the other and when the day is finished you look
like a neger(sic) and have such a damn headache you almost go nuts. I can still
taste the smoke but I will live through it.
Mom it may interest you to know that while I write this
letter I am munching on the cashew nuts you sent me also the candy, thanks a
million mom. But I did not receive your letter of the 5th with the
five dollars in it but have received your letter of the 11th. It may
be held up somewhere, I will let you know when it arrives.
Glad you enjoyed your trip with Goss and I was sorry to hear
about George. By the way how is Goss, does he still come around at 4:30 on
Tuesdays and Fridays? Just think when it is 9:30 at home it is 6:30 out here and
I always think of you getting ready to meet Goss for an outing or a quiet
evening at home. You know mom that really does you good and is about the only
relaxation you have and I know you love it. I don't blame you, he is a swell
guy.
Mom before I leave for seaduty I am going to call you, it
will probably be on Sunday. Gee mom it will be so good to hear your voice and
Marion's and the kids again and I don't care how much it costs I am going to get
by hook or by crook. I guess it will be in the later part of Dec. or the early
part of Jan. I will let you know when I will call you so you can be prepared.
I tried to send a happy birthday telegram the 16th
but they would not send it. It wasn't important enough, that's what they said.
To hell with them. so I will take this time to wish you a happy birthday
sweetheart and wish that it could be more. Well sweetheart I guess that is all
for now so I will close. Give my love to all and tell the kids to keep up the
good work. Take care of yourself. Love, Jack
P.S. Mom judge by this letter whether you can send a letter
that I will receive before Oct 24 as we leave for San Pedro then
25. October 31, 1944. USS Aaron Ward
My Dear Mom, Oct. 29, 1944
Well mom here I am listening to the "Manhatten Merry Go
Round" and can see you after your hard day sitting in the easy chair so
nice and fresh after your bath with your eyes closed, thinking about what I will
never know, but it is most likely about your boys. Mom I can almost see you as
if I was there with you.
Well mom I am now on our ship and it is really something to
be proud of. Frank Mound is singing, the night is young, and you are so
beautiful. Now to get back to our ship. I was in CENSORED looking at her. Gee
mom she sure has grace. I wish I could send you some pictures of her but I
can't. Honest mom I can't tell you the feeling I have in my inside when I walk
around the deck and see the other fellows working together to make our ship as
proud of them as we are of her.
Mom I am assigned below decks in the Fire Room, another step
closer to becoming an Electrician's Mate. By the way, the Chief Electrician's
Mate looks and reminds me a lot of Dad. No kidding mom they are almost identical
in looks and ways. It makes me feel as if Pop is with me to see that I am all
right. It may sound queer but it is how I feel. Mom don't be angry with me but I
had to have Pop's ring cut off my finger because it had swelled so. I cut it and
it got infected but I am going to have it fixed as soon as I get some money,
only God knows how long that will be. Oh by the way I received the $5 you sent
me, last Monday. It was in Bks "C". Mom when I go out to sea I am
going to make another allotment to you because I won't need but about $10 a
month. So use it for whatever you want. Buy yourself some new clothes or
whatever you need. I know it won't be much but it will help. By the way, how
many allotment checks have you received so far tell me? You should have gotten 5
so far, the 6th should come about the 5th of November.
Mom I can't tell you much about our ship in fact I don't know
what I can say but I will find out and let you know.
Mom I miss you terribly and the rest of the folks. But any
time I get real lonely I look at the picture I have of you and the kids. And
that helps.
How are the kids doing in school? I hope they are keeping up
the good work. Are they?
Well mom I will close now and write again real soon. I love
you and give my love to all.
Your son, Jackie
P.S. You can send the knife and flashlight whenever you get
the chance.
P.P.S. I am now a F2/c instead of S2/c
26. November 3, 1944. USS Aaron Ward
Dear Mom, 31, Oct, 1944
How are you sweetheart? And how is the rest of the family?
All fine I hope.
Well mom it is 3:15 out here and 6:15 home so I guess you
have just turned off the alarm and are getting up to start another hard days
work.
Were you out with Goss last night or did you sit at home with
him, giving out peanuts and food to the Halloweeners? Did Gene and Mart go out
and what were they dressed as? Boy I bet you had a time getting them ready.
Well mom are the kids keeping up the good work at school? And
how did Mart make out in his quarterly exams? I hope he came out on top or at
least near it. No mom I don't expect miricals(sic) but you know as well as I do
that he can do it, so can Gene.
I guess you are wondering what in the name of God I am doing
up at this hour of the morning. Well to tell the you the truth I have had the 12
to watch and trying to catch up on my letter writing. I have written to Louise,
Dot, Lois, Aunt Anna, at last, and Aunt May. And last but not least by a long
shot I am writing you.
We were over the side yesterday scraping paint from our ship
to get her ready for a new coat. I can't tell you where I am at but I can say I
am still in the USA and expect to be for a little while longer but how long I do
not know.
I am fine and putting on some weight I think at least I feel
as if I am. Those navy beans sure do something to you.
Mom I am sending you a little poem to put with the ones from
Camp Perry and the company picture.
Well mom I have to get the guy who relieves me up. I will
continue when I return.
Well here I am again it is now 3:45 - 6:45 home. Just think
the table is set, the coffee is on and you are now about to perform the
laborious task of getting the kids up. Wish you luck.
I have not yet gotten my ring fixed yet but intend to the
next time I go out on liberty. See mom I feel terrible about having it cut but
the Doc said it had to come off and it did after sawing it from 1:00 to almost
4:00PM and then I had to have it cut by one of the Electricians with a pair of
diagonals. The swelling has gone down now and my finger is healing nicely except
that it is raw where the ring was.
Well sweetheart I think I will catch an hour and a half of
shut eye. Good night or should I say good morning. Take care of yourself and
give my love to all. Love, Jack
27. November 21, 1944. Sampson NY from R.Miller
Hi Mrs. Morgan, Nov. 20th
I have about 20 minutes before lights out so I thought I'd
answer your letter before I go to bed. Excuse my delay in writing but you know
the old story about how busy I've been. Well it still holds true so I'll just
say that I've been pretty busy and haven't had the chance to write.
I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to get up to see you when I
was home yesterday. I had a gang of relations down the house for a turkey dinner
so I just couldn't get up.
I still haven't heard a word from Jack but I am living in
hopes that the captain will give him a few minutes off so he can write me and
let me know how he is making out.
There isn't much new going on around here except that school
is getting a little tough now that we only have six weeks to go.
Here I've only been writing ten minutes and they are telling
us to get ready to turn out the lights so I'll have to close in a hurry.
Remember me to Marion and all and write when you find the time. Your friend, Bob
28. December 13, 1944. USS Aaron Ward
My dearest Mom, Nov 23, 1944
How are you sweetheart and the rest of the family? All fine I
hope. Gee it has been a long time since I wrote to you last in fact you were the
last person I wrote to. I am very sorry mom but I have been awful busy and now
that things are getting around to normal I can write more often.
Gee mom there are a lot of things I would like to tell you
but I am afraid they would not pass the censors and if not they will return the
letter to me instead of mailing it out so I don't want to take any chances. But
I can say that I am still in the United States and hope to be for a little while
longer.
Yes mom I did receive your package and I can't tell you how
much I like everything. The identification bracelet was a little too big for me
but I cut it down and it fits all right now. And mom thanks for having it
engraved on the back too. And tell Goss thanks for the flashlight and knife.
They are really what the doctor ordered. It is the only flashlight with a spot
onboard and it really comes in handy, instead of seeing everything around you,
you see just what you are looking for.
Just think mom today is my first holiday away from home but I
guess it won't be the last. But let's not think about the ones I will miss but
those I will be home for. That is what I am planning on, how about you?
Well mom I have a surprise for you. I am now an Electrician's
striker and really like it and am trying to make good. So far I think I am doing
all right but I am not sure as no one says anything about it, but then again I
think they would tell me if I wasn't.
Gee mom if I could tell you what we have done and what we are
doing I could be up all night but I can't so I guess this is all for now. I love
you more than ever and the rest of the folks too. I know the kids are doing good
in school and tell them to keep up the good work. Till I write again I will say
I love you and will write soon. Good night sweetheart. Love, Jack. John J.
Morgan F2/c
P.S. The next time you see Bob Miller he will have something
for you. So don't forget to ask him if he doesn't give it to you.
29. December 13, 1944. USS Aaron Ward
Dear Mom,
Gee it has been a long time since I wrote you last and I am
really sorry. But you see we have been on our shakedown cruise and are still not
finished but I am not on the ship now. Don't get excited mom but I am in the
hospital again. It isn't bad. Just a cut on my shin. They had to put about 10
stitches in it but I am all right now and expect to go back to our ship next
week some time.
The reason I have not written is that I have been so busy.
You see we had watches to stand 8 hours a day besides our work to do and I
pulled the 12 to 4 so I was pretty tired out when it came to my free time so I
went to bed. I know it was selfish of me but I just did not think.
We were out to Pearl Harbor but did not get liberty, just
pulled in for fuel and stores and came back again. We were gone about 24 or 25
days.
Mom it is really beautiful out there. So beautiful that it
scares you. Gee it is so quite that you can hear a pin drop. Mom we almost had a
sub to our credit but we did not, thank God, as it was one of our own. Boy was
that scary. I think everyone onboard had damn near a load in his pants. Just
waiting for it to show itself and when it did there was a joyous hooray and a
sigh of relief. Mom I never thought I could be so scared.
Mom if you ever see a picture of a ship in the 2200 ton class
in the paper that will be what our ship will look like. You see our ship is a
2200 ton class destroyer converted to a destroyer minelayer. You see they took
the torpedo tubes off and put mine tracks on instead. We will be carrying 120
mines and about 150 depth charges plus our six 5" guns, our 12 40mm guns
and 8 20mm guns so I think we will be pretty safe.
Mom I am now in San Diego so don't think I have left the
States as I will be here at least until January some time.
Mom about that leave, they are breaking their heart. Yes mom
all they are giving us is four (4) days. I could make it home in that time but
that is not talking about coming back. Mom I would gladly go over the hill for
those four days but it would only hurt you more than me. As the Shore Patrol
would be coming to the house after me and that would only lead to embarrassment
for you and a lot of talk around the neighborhood. All that would happen to me
is that I would be restricted for about 30 days and get fined $120 so mom even
though I would love to see you I don't think it right to take the chance. But
mom if you want me home just send the money and I will be there with bells on.
Mom speaking of money you always ask me if I have enough.
Well I was more or less planning to get home and did not have the heart or
should I say courage to ask you for any. But to be truthful with you I an pretty
low. You see I had to buy some extra clothes and shoes so I spent the biggest
part of my month's pay. To be exact I spent $22.85 out of my $30. And I also
have a tailor bill of $4.40 so you see I could use some money. That is if you
can spare it. I don't know why I said that because I know you can't. But just
because I am your kid you would give me the last cent you had or damn close to
it. You always have. Yes your 3 kids always did come first, maybe that is why we
don't fully appreciate what you are doing because we very rarely had to do
without.
Mom Christmas was just another day in the week since Pop
died. I wonder what this one will be away from home. Not very exciting I can
grant you that.
Mom I am thinking a little too hard now so I will close now
before I start mentioning things that will make me fell worse. So long
sweetheart and give my love to all. By the way I received the other two packages
and was very grateful for them. Love, Jack
30. December 20, 1944. USS Aaron Ward
Dearest Mom, Dec. 17, 1944
Hi sweetheart how are you? And how is the rest of the tribe,
all fine I hope.
Gee mom I guess you will just have to get along without me
this Christmas because as far as I know a 15 day leave is all but impossible.
But maybe next year I will be able to be with you. I hope so.
I just got back from Mass. Yes mom the first since I left
Treasure Island and I really feel good. Next Sunday and Monday I am going to
receive communion if it is at all possible. So keep your fingers crossed as I
want to receive very much.
Mom I will take time to thank you and the rest of the folks
for your lovely Christmas gifts. Every thing is just what I needed. And about
the razors and shaving cream, mom you must be kidding. Hell I am lucky if I
shave once a month. I now have enough shaving gear to last the duration and 6
months. Gee mom you must think that I am a man who has to shave every day. Well
mom I think I am becoming a man but about the shaving, I am a little behind.
Mom I received your telegram with the $35. Good God woman are
you crazy. You know you can't afford that much, if any. But I will use it
anyway. I can you know. But mom the next time I send home for money, which I
hope is not for a long while, just send 5 or 10 unless I state for more and then
it will be because I am coming home.
Home mom. That is one of the most precious words there is.
Yes mom home and you and the kids and all the others I love are what will make
me try harder to come back and mom I will be back. Don't even think that I
won't. And Mom if I am ever reported missing don't give hope because I am coming
back and I don't want you to ever forget it. Not for one minute because hoping
and keeping faith is half the battle. The rest is easy.
Mom I used to be scared of being wounded. Well I still am but
not as much since I have seen what they are doing for the fellows here. Mom they
are actually making hands for them that can be used as good as I can mine. I
have seen it mom. There is one fellow here who lost his thumb and they are, or
rather have, made a protrusion on his stomach that looks like a handle and
attached his hand to it and when his hand is fully attached to it they will cut
it from his stomach and take tendons from his foot and bone from one of his ribs
and he will once more have a thumb to be able to use as we do ours.
Mom I could go on for hours telling what they do to make you
normal again but I just want to give you the idea of what they are doing. Mom it
is really marvelous how they turn out. To see some of the pictures before and
after you would think it impossible. Seeing this has made me a little more
brave.
Gee mom there is so much I would like to say but I can not
express myself. Mom I could tell you things about this hospital that you would
say were impossible. All I can say is they are doing wonders for those who have
or will be wounded in some way.
Well sweetheart I guess that is all. Give my love to all. Oh
by the way how is Aunt Margaret, is she still with us or has she died? You know
she has been on my mind quite often. Mom if you go to see her, give her my love.
So long kid. Love, Jack
P.S. There is a picture of me enclosed
EdNote: There was also enclosed a small piece of paper to
which two safety pins were attached. The paper said "Metal is Scarce.
CONSERVE SAFETY PINS. Make these last"
31. February 1, 1945. Postmarked LosAngeles with 2 six cent
air mail stamps
Dear Mom, Jan. 28, 1945
How are you sweetheart and how is the rest of the household?
All fine I hope.
Well mom you have been asking in every letter how I got hurt.
Well I will tell you now that I am all right. It happened like this. I was up on
top of the boiler in the forward fire room replacing a day light blue lamp in
the smoke indicator. I got the socket out of the stack and the fumes from the
boiler got the best of me and I had to get down fast which to my sorrow I did.
It seems I grabbed a pipe which was cool at the top but as I slid down got as
hot as hell so I let go and came down about 15 to 20 feet to the deck. Upon
arriving at the end of my trip, my leg went between the boiler on the deck
plates. In so doing took some flesh out of my leg for about 4 inches down to the
bone which took 13 stitches to pull together. You can still see where my hands
were burnt and the scar on my leg. Other than that I am in the pink of condition
once more. Mom the reason I don't tell you all is that you worry too damn much.
When I say I am all right take it at that and stop worrying. The Navy will take
care of me. You have enough on your hands and mind without worrying about me. If
you keep it up you will go nuts one of these days. So mom for once in your life
take it easy, let somebody else worry for a while.
Mom I am trying to find some way to see Bob Miller. You see
we are about 650 miles apart. If I get 4 days leave I can go by train and it
will only cost about $15. But if I can only get a 48 hour pass I will have to
take a plane which will cost $38.40 so here is hoping I can get the 4 days.
Because from your last letter I gather I am to send home for no more money. But
I don't mind we will be leaving the States soon. I know we will be here to Feb
6, just how long after that only God knows. Right now we are prepared to leave
on 4 to 12 hour notice. But as I said before about worry, just pray and I will
be back.
Mom I think I will send my rings home for safekeeping. I have
not had Pop's ring repaired as yet because of being afraid I would ship out
before it was finished then I would be shit out of luck. Also a couple of
pictures that I cannot keep in my wallet. They are one of Lois, you know the
girl I went to the lake with when I was home on leave. And one of me and a
gyrene by the name of Don Autrey and a girl by the name of Florence Ellis. Maybe
Bob mentioned her to you, quite a gal. Don't pay any attention to the eyes in
the photo as we were quite tite(sic).
It was taken right after I received your letter which you
have apologized for. About that letter mom, you know you were forgiven and I
when I mailed the one I wrote I wished I could have gotten it back before it
ever got to you. I guess we both wrote in too much haste. And I am really sorry
for that letter.
Mom has Aunt Anna gotten her appointment at the Wills Eye
Hospital as yet or is she still waiting? Tell her that my thoughts are with her
all the time and that she is also in my prayers. How is Grandmom? Is she still
gallivanting from one place to another visiting or has the cold weather slowed
her down some? Boy for a woman her age she sure can get around. I hope I can
when and if I ever get to be her age. And how is Marion? You know one of these
days I am going to break down and write her a nice long letter. Gee I haven't
written her since before I left boot camp and that is 6 months ago. But tell her
I have not forgotten her. How is Mart, is he still bumming or has he got a job?
Why doesn't he try to get one at Joe's again. Boy he really threw a good break
out the window when he quit there. Joe was even going to teach him to drive the
car and that is when he would have made a hell of a lot of tips by taking the
locals in the car. Tell him for me to try and get that job back or else get
another somewhere. I don't have to ask how Gene is doing because I know he won't
let me down and tell him to keep up the good work.
Well mom I guess that is all for now. Take care of yourself
and give my love to all. Love, Jack
P.S. I received Marion's and Aunt Katherine's money. Please
thank them both for now and I will write them soon.
32. February 6, 1945. From Bob Miller aboard the USS Bunker
Hill
Hi Martie and Marion: Feb 6th
I just have time to drop a few lines to say I am making out
okay before lights out. I'm sorry I didn't write sooner but I've been kept quite
busy since I came out west. I wrote Jack while I was at Shoemaker to see if I
could get in touch with him but I didn't stick around long enough to get an
answer from him. You know it takes him quite a while to answer mail. I did get a
swell letter from him while I was in sunny Calif though. He sent it to Sampson
and they forwarded it on to me. He gave me his whole life's history while he was
in the Navy and also about his accident. He said he was coming along fine and
expected to get out of the hospital soon. I'd sure like to have seen him. I
suppose you can see by my address that I am on a ship now so I can't write too
much. I will say that I really enjoy it because there is never a dull moment as
there is always something interesting going on. There isn't much else I can
think of to write now so I'll just close. Give my regards to Grandmom and the
kids.
Jack's pal, Bob
33. February 20, 1945. USS Aaron Ward
My Darling Mother, 18, Feb. 1945
Well sweetheart I am still further away from you in miles but
much closer in mind and heart. Mother I can't tell you where I am CENSORED So I
guess you know where that is. I don't know whether the censor will cut that out
or not.
Mother I have not received a letter from you in quite a
while. No I am not angry but would like to know if everything is all right at
home. Please let me know if it is or is not, as I am very much interested in
anything that happens at home. Mother you remember what I said in my last letter
about me? Well I meant every word of it and I know you will not let me down. I
am going to try and go to Confession and Communion this Sunday. I guess it will
probably be the last in a long while as I guess you have gathered we have no
chaplain on board and there will be very few chances from here on in.
Mom this war may take a little more time than we think it
will but no matter how long or what happens to me I will come back to you. There
are quite a few debts I have not paid yet. No mom it is not money that I owe for
that would never pay for your kindness and loving which you have given me for so
many years. I don't think that I could ever repay you for that. Mom I know I
sound lonely in my letters but that is the way I feel when I think of you and
the folks at home, so I do hope these letters do not bore you.
Well mom now for the usual questions; how is Marion,
Grandmother, Aunt Anna, and the kids? Please give them all my love. How is Mart
making out at school, is he still sticking at it? Gee I do hope so. And has he
gotten a job yet? And how is Gene coming along in school and with his paper
route? Some how I feel he is doing both with great success.
Mom I went up to San Francisco to see Bob but he had left a
few days before. I don't know his address but I do know he is on the carrier USS
Bunker Hill and I also know where he left from. But whether he returned to the
States or not I do not know. If you have any idea where he might be please let
me know and also send me his address. Gee but I had hoped I would see him even
if it would have only been for about 8 or 10 hours. You see we were about 500
miles apart and I only had 48 hours to make it there and back. I could not get a
plane or a train either so I put the old thumb to work. I left San Pedro at 1:00
PM and arrived in Shoemaker at 3:00AM the following day and inquired as to his
whereabouts and that is when I found out where he had gone. So I went to the
YMCA and caught a few hours shut eye, ate lunch and started back again. Gee mom
you will never know how disappointed I was when I did not see him. I guess it
just wasn't meant to be that way.
And mother I don't know if I told you or not but that money
you sent me. I did not use it for the purpose that you mentioned as I said in
one of my letters that I only expected 5 or 10 but instead you send 20 or 30.
Mother I would never ask you for money to take some girl out because I know you
cannot afford it, so please don't think that is the reason.
Well sweetheart that is about all I can say without having
the censor's scissors whittling away at my masterpiece. Good night, sweet
dreams, sweetheart. Love, Jack. John J. Morgan
P.S. Could you please send me my red swimming trunks.
34. March 2, 1945. USS Aaron Ward
Dearest Mother, 1, March, 1945
Well I received your letter of Feb 24-25 and was more than
glad to have heard from you. It was the first time in about a month. I know it
is not because you haven't written. It is probably that they have sent it
someplace else instead of to the ship. But it will catch up to me eventually. I
will let you know as soon as I receive some. Mother I think it would be a good
idea to stop that money order as it might be a long while before it reaches me
and it would be no good because of the laps(sic) in time.
Mother I hope you received my letter that pertained to me and
my coming home again. And mother I meant every word of it. So don't give up hope
no matter what happens. I can't tell you where we are or anything pertaining to
the ship until 30 days after we leave that particular sector. Then I can tell
you all about it, that is if I can remember it that long.
I have my progress test in for EM3/c and expect to go up for
my rate about June. Say a prayer that I pass. It might seem funny asking so far
in advance but the more prayers and study the better the chances.
I have another pillow slip for you stating the place where I
am but cannot send it until 30 days after leaving here. When you receive any
souvenirs from me it will be where I have been not where I am at.
I am sitting here looking at a picture of City Hall
Philadelphia which Dot Fogarty sent me a while back and wishing I were there
once more. Just think about an hour's ride and I would be home. By the way I
don't know if I told you or not but Dot is in the Marines. But I have not heard
from her since she joined but I know how boot camp is and how much time one has
to one's self. And Bob Fogarty is over in France. That was where he was the last
time I heard from mom, who knows he might be in Germany by now but I hope he is
not that close to the hell they are having over there. Boy it sure is no picnic
no matter where you are in this war, whether at home or any other place.
Tell Mart not to be discouraged about his sale of stamps as
he has the people for customers that have these people fighting out where it is
the toughest while Gene's are riding about in nice new cars and making the money
in the defense plants and getting all the deferments. By the way how are the
kids doing in school are they improving any? I do hope so because if they think
school is a lot of bunk, they are sadly mistaken because when this war is over
Mart will probably be getting out of school and he will be looking for work. And
will have to put his back against a lot of other fellows who have the practical
training which they got in the armed forces. And it sure is going to be tough
going for him if he is not a graduate of high school at least. He might laugh at
this but I know now the better chance I would have had if I were a graduate. All
this goes for Gene too. He may as well start now to plan on his future because
it will probably be tougher for him in the days to come.
Sorry to hear of Grandmother's illness and hope she recovers
from it very soon. Tell her that she is always remembered in my prayers just
like all the rest of the family. And tell fat stuff I was asking for her. And
hope she is recovering better than the last time you saw her. And tell her not
to give up hope as she will pull through and be just as well as she ever was. I
know she will. And tell her to take it easy because when I come home again I am
going to needle her as always and even more so to make up for lost time. Give
her my love and tell her I will be expecting a letter from her in the near
future.
Mother I am going to start sending some money home because I
will have no use for it where I am going. You can do what you please with it,
some of it for bills, or whatever you might need it for. It will probably come
in money orders unless I can make out an allotment other than the one I already
have out to you.
How is Marion is she still with you? Or doesn't she wish to
be remembered to me. Not that I blame her. One of these days as I said many
times before I am going to write her a nice letter. I hope she doesn't pass out
with the shock of receiving it when she does. Give her my love and everything
that goes with it.
And how is that man of yours? Still coming around as
faithfully as usual? Because I know how you are about him and how you enjoy
being with him. I think you look forward to seeing him just as much as you do my
letters. I don't blame you because he sure is an ace and I would gladly call him
Pop if the chance ever arrived. Somehow I think it could. Well sweetheart I
guess this is all for now. I will write again soon. Goodnight, sweet dreams,
sweetheart. Your loving son, Jack. John J. Morgan
35. March 27, 1945. From Bob Miller aboard the USS Bunker
Hill
Hello Mrs. Morgan March 27th
Your swell letter arrived about two weeks ago and I was sure
glad to hear from you. I have been quite busy here as late so please excuse my
delay in answering. I was glad to see that Jack got out of the hospital and is
back on his ship now. I'm living in hopes that I'll run into him out here
sometime. One of my buddies from school got permission to leave his ship and
come see me while we were in port. I'd like to meet Jack in the same way. I've
received two letters from him since coming aboard but he did not mention coming
to 'Frisco to see me. I guess he'll tell me all about in his next letter so I am
all prepared to get told off about it. I haven't said a word about it in my
letters to him yet.
I'm glad to see that you are still in good health and able to
take care of all those at home. You really have a job on your hands and deserve
a lot of credit for it. I was sorry to hear that Jack's grandmother and aunt
aren't doing so well. I hope and pray that they are back in good health again.
It's really a terrible thing when a person starts losing their eyesight.
Mother's eyes have been bothering her quite a bit of late too. She keeps going
from one doctor to another but none seems to be helping her any.
I'm sitting here in the mess hall writing this letter and the
mess cooks have just started setting up the tables for supper chow so I'll cut
this letter short and get out of their way. Give my regards to all and write
when you can.
See you in your letters. Jack's old buddy, Bob. Robert W.
Miller F2/c
EdNote: This would be Bob's last letter too.
36&Last. No envelope. Dated April 12, 1945, less than one
month before his death.
Dearest Mother, 12, April, 1945
Gee it has been a long time since I wrote to you last but we
have been to sea once again and this is the first time we have been in port
since then. Boy I have seen more water than I ever thought there could be. You
would really be surprised as to how much water there really is out here. And
like now, when we are at anchor, it is so clear that you can drop coins down and
see them for quite a distance. Well so much for that stuff.
Mother is there any thing wrong at home? I guess you are
wondering why I ask this. Well here is the reason. In the last letter I received
from you, you asked about my hands and how you intended to come to San Diego to
see me but for fear of accommodations did not. Mother if you recall what
happened on Dec 10 of 1944 and here it is April of 1945 it just doesn't make
sense to me and the only thing I can think of is that there is trouble at home
and when you wrote could not think of any thing else without actually telling me
there was. Mother please let me know if there is or not as I get an uneasy
feeling when I receive letters like the one in mention. So if there is anything
wrong please tell me. I would feel a lot better if I knew.
I hope Marion received my letter to her and has come back to
normal by now. I know the shock must have been terrific. But I will try and
write to her more often and at more regular intervals.
How is Aunt Anna coming along, fine I hope. And just in case
I don't get a letter off to her tell her I am expecting a letter from her real
soon. Mom if you can recall in one of my letters I said that I was expecting to
hear from her and that was when she was so sick. I had the feeling she would be
all right and I was right. I knew I could not be wrong.
How is grandmother? Is she coming along any better I do hope
so. She is always remembered in my prayers. And I almost always say a rosary
every night before going to sleep. I don't know whether it is too late to become
holy or not but I have seen some things that put a little more fear in you I
guess. That is what I needed to wake me up to, the help every one needs from
God.
How are the kids coming along with their schoolwork. I hope
they are doing as good and are trying the best they can. And how are the paper
routes coming along, has Mart been able to shake the shanty Irish down yet? If
not tell him not to be down on them as they are well represented out here. And
how is the little one, Gene I mean, still making out with everything as he
always has? Boy he is one kid that will always be on top because he tries and
makes out with what he has. And so could Mart if he tried a little harder.
Last but above all not least how is my darling mother, in the
best of health and still as lovely as ever? I won't say I hope because I know
you are. You never change except for the better. Mother I know I have said I
love you before but each day I am away from you I grow to love you more and
more, and that goes for the rest of the family. Mother I hope you do not take
offense or feel insulted as to what I am going to say now. But when I get back
and am going home I am going to send you some extra cash and points so that we
can have the biggest and best feed we ever had. Boy that is one of the many
things I miss at home that we do not get out here. I do not mean the chow here
is no good it is just that I miss good home cooking. Boy when I think of the
good meals I turned my nose up at I could kick myself full of holes. Let that be
a reminder to the kids that there is no meal as good as the ones at home and for
them to eat all the whole food they can and be thankful that it is not
dehydrated.
By the way how is Goss, is he still coming around as usual
and I guess your feelings are the same as usual, if not more so toward him. I
have said before how I feel toward him so I will not repeat myself. Tell him I
was asking for him.
Well sweetheart I will close now with a little rhyme:
Mary had a little watch
She swallowed it one day
The Doctor gave her castor oil
To pass the time away
The castor oil did not work
The time it would not pass
If you want to know the time
You will have to look up Mary's
Uncle. He has a watch.
Hehe
Goodnight, sweet dreams, sweetheart and give my love to all
and I will write again soon.
Your Loving Son Always,
Jack.
WESTERN
UNION
PAM45 67 GOVT=WASHINGTON DC MAY 29 345A
MRS MARTHA ELIZABETH MORGAN=
1404 SOUTH VODGES ST
I DEEPLY REGRET TO INFORM YOU THAT YOUR SON JOHN JOSEPH MORGAN
FIREMAN SECOND CLASS USNR IS MISSING FOLLOWING ACTION IN THE
SERVICE OF HIS COUNTRY. YOUR GREAT ANXIETY IS APPRECIATED AND
YOU WILL BE FURNISHED DETAILS WHEN RECEIVED. TO PREVENT
POSSIBLE AID TO OUR ENEMIES PLEASE DO NOT DIVULGE THE NAME OF
HIS SHIP OR STATION UNLESS THE GENERAL CIRCUMSTANCES ARE MADE
PUBLIC IN NEWS STORIES=
VICE ADMIRAL RANDALL JACOBS THE CHIEF OF NAVAL PERSONNEL
929A.
WESTERN
UNION
PAM44 115 GOVT=WASHINGTON DC JULY 24 254A
MRS MARTHA ELIZABETH MORGAN=
1404 SOUTH VODGES ST
I DEEPLY REGRET TO INFORM YOU THAT A CAREFUL REVIEW OF ALL
FACTS AVAILABLE RELATING TO THE DISAPPEARANCE OF YOUR SON
JOHN JOSEPH MORGAN FIREMAN SECOND CLASS USNR PREVIOUSLY
REPORTED MISSING LEADS TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THERE IS NO
HOPE FOR HIS SURVIVAL AND THAT HE LOST HIS LIFE AS RESULT OF
ENEMY ACTION ON 3 MAY 1945 WHILE IN THE SERVICE OF HIS
COUNTRY. IF FURTHER DETAILS ARE RECEIVED THEY WILL BE
FORWARDED TO YOU PROMPTLY. TO PREVENT POSSIBLE AID TO OUR
ENEMIES PLEASE DO NOT DIVULGE THE NAME OF HIS SHIP OR
STATION UNLESS THE GENERAL CIRCUMSTANCES ARE MADE PUBLIC
IN NEWS STORIES. SINCEREST SYMPATHY IS EXTENDED TO YOU IN
YOUR GREAT LOSS=
VICE ADMIRAL RANDALL JACOBS THE CHIEF OF NAVAL PERSONNEL
3 1945. 939A.
LETTERS FROM HOME
There were 13 letters addressed to Jack from his Mother. All
had a large X across the front with a stamp that read: Return to Sender,
Unclaimed By FPO Directory Service, Wash., DC.
April 11, 1945
April 17, 1945
April 21, 1945
April 27, 1945
April 30, 1945
May 3, 1945 ( the day Jack was killed in action)
May 15, 1945
May 21, 1945
June 3, 1945
June 7, 1945
June 14, 1945
June 26, 1945
June 31, 1945
These letters have never been opened. My father in compiling
this book often replied to our childlike interest, "I didn't open them
because they weren't addressed to me". My brother Bill shares a great
interest and love for the Aaron Ward saga and the short life of his Uncle. Bill
also had the closest relationship of all of the grandchildren with Jack's
mother, Martha. He had the book in his safekeeping for a while and was just
dying to read what Grandmom had written to Jack after receiving word of his MIA.
Having read through all of Jack's letters he said, "one night I just ripped
the last one open and read it. It was the saddest thing I have ever read".
To present the writing style shared by mother and son and to
relieve my own curiosity, here is the last letter:
June 31, 1945. To: John J. Morgan F2/c, 921-44-42, USS Aaron
Ward (DM34),
c/o Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, Cal.
My Darling Son, June 20, 1945, 1404 So. Vodges St., Phila.,
Pa.
Mother is frantic with fear and worry. My God, My God, Jack
honey what am I going to do while waiting for those three little words. Honey
they will mean the world to me. Honey boy when you first left for boot training,
I thought my heart would break. I did so want you to be at home with me as you
were still my little boy. You were the first of my children to leave me on such
a big errand and such a dangerous one. You came home for a few days and I was so
happy and you went away again. Words will never explain what and how I felt that
morning in August when you went again and stood on the corner looking back at
your home and mother which was me. I thought my heart would break, but my
darling they were nothing in comparison to how my heart is now. Darling it is
broken and will be until I hear from you again. Just those three little words,
"Mother I'm safe" is all I want to hear. I'll wait for the rest and if
you get to California I'm coming out to see you and hold you in my arms once
more. I pray to God that it will happen that way. Father Jack, who is in the
Philippines, is saying masses for your safe return and honey I pray all the way
going to work and coming home from work. I've went to mass and received Holy
Communion ever since I've heard the sorrowful news. Gene and Mart are also
praying like little saints and receiving also. Everybody I see or talk to, I do
nothing but beg prayers for your safety. Honey I just can't talk, think or do
anything except pray for your safety. Dear God, Dear God, please grant that I
may hear from my darling boy again. Jack honey I know my letters for the past
three weeks have been all the same but as I said before I cannot think of
anything but you. So darling I'll be looking for those three little words.
Goodnight Darling. Your broken hearted, Mother.
Transcribed and compiled with love, John Martin Morgan.
November, 1996.
