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Camp Pendleton Oceanside, Cal. May 14, 1944
Dear Eva
Well I just got in from a week of maneuvers, I am really tired out, I haven't slept for three or four days. We have been about thirty five miles back in the mountains attacking other outfits and being attacked by them. They really have some rugged country out here, it seems as if it is all hillls. On top of that we roast in the daytime and freeze at night.
Well Sis, I finally made a promotion it's Sgt. now. The order came out last week, three of us in my company made Sgt. I took the exam about three months ago and came out highest in the battalion, but they waited until last week to promote anyone. They wanted to try us out in the field first. I feel better about making it here than I would if I had made it at the base, because this is a combat outfit
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and they make sure you know your job before they give any stripes.
We have received our regimental colors, I don't know whether I told you or not. We had a parade and review before the General, then we received our regimental flag. I have lost some weight, all the excess fat I had. I am in pretty good condition know. I can hike thirty miles a day without any trouble. I am so dark from this sun you probably wouldn't let me in, you would mistake me for a negro. I don't know when or for sure whether I will get a furlough but I hope I get one soon. I sure would like to see you all. Eva you didn't tell me Henry's address or whether he is still in the army or not. I hope he isn't. I guess he is too interested in his bride to write. Well Eva I haven't much time so I will have to close, Write soon.
Love to all Jewell