Is the war truly going to be over within the next few days?

1958, Perry and Gene bought a house in
Claremont, California where they lived
for the rest of their lives.

August 9, 1945

My Darling Wife Gene,

Just before leaving our last port, I received two of your letters and Pierce's note on the bottom. It seemed almost unreal that he is actually back in LA after being so far away. Give him my best wishes and regards. Wish I could get to see him. I hope he doesn't have to go out to the Pacific now, which may be possible now with the new atomic bomb and Russia's entry into the war. [August 6th 1945 the U.S. dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan and August 9th another bomb was dropped on Nagasaki. The Japanese surrendered August 14th.]

That's what all the "shop talk" and "scuttlebutt" is about. I'll admit all this new news increases my hopes considerably of being able to get back into civilian clothes quite a lot sooner. It surely looks like the Japs ought to be able to see the utter hopelessness of their condition now. If they don't, it looks like it is going to be a mass annihilation of the race.

Always keep hoping and thinking about the time when I can walk in on you (or have you come to me) and especially of the time when I can come to you and know I won't have to leave again. That is the day I am really looking for. My thoughts are much more optimistic in that respect than they have been for a long while.

I'm hoping that soon again I'll be getting some more of your sweet letters. I constantly look forward from one port to the next destination just for that reason. One thing about this ship, we spend enough time in ports here and there to get mail fairly regularly. I don't know what I would do if I had to spend months out at sea without any mail from you.

Nearly time for taps, my darling, so guess I'll have to close. Will try and write you again tomorrow. I love you. Always, Perry

August 11, 1945 (Saturday)

My Sweetheart Perry,

Oh my darling, do you really think it will be true? Is the war truly going to be over within the next few days? The news is so astounding--it has come so quickly that I find it hard to believe. Oh Perry, if the war really does end soon, will it mean you can come home right away too? My darling, I am praying so hard that it will be true about your coming in again in a few weeks. How wonderful it will be to have you by my side again. I love you so much, Perry.

Darling, you had better not mention "Manx" again in your letters. In your last one, the censor cut the word out tho, of course, I knew immediately. [There was a Manx Hotel in San Francisco on the corner of Powell and O'Farrell that must be the place Perry and Gene stayed during his furlough. Apparently that's the place Perry has promised Gene they can go back to again some day.]

I received your letters yesterday--two such wonderful letters--I just keep reading them over and over. You will come home soon, I just know you will.

August 12 (Sunday)

My Darling, I started this letter to you yesterday but was interrupted. Everyone is so excited--hoping that it truly will be over officially soon. Yesterday and today too, we all have been close to radios listening to all the news flashes, but so far nothing has happened. The war is still on we are told. Darling, as I read your letters, I can see that you too thought this war would last much longer, so I can imagine your surprise too. I can hardly imagine how it will be to have this awful war over with, to have you back for good and forever to live in peace again.

I went over to the ward recreation ground last night with Pierce and Emily. There was a very small crowd out last night. We danced most of the evening. Tuesday evening the ward is having a farewell party for Max Thornton and his family. They are moving back to Utah. The ward will really miss them. I am wondering who will take Max's place in the bishopric when he leaves. Yes, Hortense Clinger is married now and so in love. Her husband was from the Wilshire Ward I think. Didn't I tell you about her? Also, Lewis's other dancing partner, Cheryl Sponseller, was married a few days later to a fellow from the Hollywood Ward.

I'm glad you finally heard from the "Era" about your subscription. I hope you get the magazines from now on. I've been quite sick today--all day. It's my first "sick" day this month, and I have had terrible cramps. I went to Sunday School but came home immediately after (to Mother's) and laid down. She gave me some medicine that helped, and I slept all afternoon. I was too weak and groggy to go to church tonight so came home. I'm feeling a little better and will go to bed early.

Perry, I'm still not working since I quit that job. I've been helping Mother thru the days with little Ricky. He is almost too much for her. I hope Dick can come home soon. Then Emily will be able to take care of Ricky herself. They will get a place of their own. Dick plans on going to school here at Southern California. Dad and Mother plan on buying a place too after the war. It seems so many things will happen "after the war." Oh, surely it will end soon.

From your letters, I think you have quite a lot of things to tell me. It sounds quite interesting, Perry. You must tell me everything when you come in.  Come home soon, Darling. I need you so very much. I do hope I have a letter from you tomorrow too. I'll write again tomorrow. I love you, my sweetheart. Always your own, Gene

August 11, 1945

My Darling Gene,

I received two very sweet letters from you last night and they were really sweet--just like you. Right now I am at a Red Cross Service Club on one of these islands out here. It's really quite nice here for a Pacific Island and it's also cool--some shade at last.

I was on watch last night when we received word of the Jap's peace surrender terms. Looks like the war can't last much longernow. Of course there is and will be a lot of criticism in accepting even that one point short of unconditional surrender, but still that would really be a great military and political advantage in that the people and generals will follow his orders (the Emperor's) which of course will come from us. Well, I don't suppose you aren't much interested in my political or diplomatic viewpoints right now.

I guess you can tell I am using one of these "post office" pens. I hope this will be decipherable. Now that I can begin to see the end of the war, and consequently the end of my Navy career, I'm beginning to feel and think much more optimistically. My thoughts are running wild with hopes, dreams and plans for our future and what we are going to do after I come back for good.

Of course we've got to realize that it will be some time after the war is over until I can get out because I'm quite a long ways down the line in the lower point brackets. But it surely makes me happy to know that that time can't be too far off now. I don't know if an end of the war would change any possibilities I might have of coming back to the States right away, but it's possible it might. But I can't feel too badly about that. Then, when I did come back, I might get a leave. I really don't know though, so this is all conjecture.

The "rigors" of family life

How would it seem to have a husband who was really yours? I mean without the Navy snatching him away all the time. (I'm surely having a hard time with this pen.) After taking orders in the Navy for this long, I think the life of a "henpecked" husband would be very wonderful indeed. In fact, I think I could bear up under the rigors of a home, wife, and family very well. I surely do love you, my darling.

Sweetheart, I'm surely glad you have such a good job. I knew you would find something, but like you, I would want you to quit if I were to come back for a few days, even at the risk of being fired. I hope that won't be necessary though. I hope you won't have to work too much longer now anyway. I still want you with me every minute I can be back there though.

I suppose you are really enjoying having Pierce home. Looks like he has timed getting back to the States just about right. If the war ends now, he won't need to come out here and can wait in the States until he can be discharged. That is unless he gets in on the Army of occupation.

Your description of you in your "nightie" and sitting on the floor barefoot and playing the phonograph was very good and I certainly assure you that our feelings are entirely mutual in regards to your expression that you wished I were there with you. How would you like me to walk in on you like that? I'm going to try and write some more letters now, so I think I'll have to close now. I love you, my darling. Forever Yours, Perry

August 13, 1945 (Monday)

My Sweetheart Perry,

How wonderful to receive a letter from you today--I wanted one so much. You wrote it on Sunday, August 5th and seemed in such good spirit. It was such a happy letter. I'm so glad your ship is not so crowded anymore and that you can live more comfortably again. I really can't imagine how you could eat standing up on board a ship, Perry. I would just think you'd have to sit down.

Oh, darling, I'm getting so excited about your coming in again. I just know you are and I can hardly stand this waiting. Perry, the censor scratched out the word "passengers" in this last letter. But, of course, I knew that's what you meant. If you have gotten rid of them, doesn't that mean you will be coming back this way. I like to think that anyway. I wish they would give you a leave this time.

August 14, 1945 (Tuesday)

My dearest, I started this letter to you last evening but was interrupted. Viola turned the radio on and we heard the most wonderful news--the Japs have accepted our surrender terms. We were both so excited we screamed for joy--jumped up and down and hugged each other. We kept the radio on till quite late listening to all the news, comments from New York, San Francisco, London, Guam, and Washington, D.C. Oh, Perry, I am so happy and excited and so anxious to be with you.

The dear Lord is answering our prayers. The war is over and you will be home soon. We'll be together again for always. Oh, Sweetheart, doesn't it all sound so wonderful? Write me, Perry. I want to know what you are thinking too. Your letters won't be censored anymore, will they? Now you can tell me where you are and when you'll be here, can't you? Oh, I hope I get a letter from you today and everyday now till I see you again. I love you, Perry. I love you so and I need you. Your own, Gene

Do you know how very much I love you?

1955, Salt Lake City, Utah.
What a difference ten years makes!

August 2, 1945 (Thursday morning)

Dearest husband Perry,

I really got up early this morning. I rode the streetcar over to mother's and ate some breakfast with them. Then I walked up to Jefferson and Flower and waited for my ride. He comes along about 7:30 am every morning. So here I am at work 20 minutes before 8 o'clock. Aren't I an early bird? I went to bed early like I said I would too--at 7:30 pm.

(Later at home) It's really a good thing that I did go to bed when I did last night cause I worked overtime this evening till 7:00. I get time and a half for overtime, but I won't be doing that often. Darling, I wish you could see me now, in fact I wish you were here with me. I'm all alone in our big bedroom (Viola's and mine.) I'm sitting on the floor playing waltz music on my phonograph. The Missouri Waltz and the Ohio--beautiful. I have played over twice. I love them so. How I wish I were waltzing with my sweetheart now.

It's quite late though so the music is very low. I have just taken my bath so am in my nightie and barefooted. I was much too tired to go to chorus practice this time. It was almost 8:00 before I got home, so I ate a little supper and here I am ready for bed.

Perry, do you know what? My job is an essential war job. It's got me wondering how I shall manage to take time off when you come in without them getting mad at me or firing me or something. Perry, I don't even want the job when you come back. All I want is you and our love. But of course I can't tell them that. They told me this job was permanent. I don't care if it is or not. When you come in again, I shall want to be with you every minute like we were in San Francisco. Oh, Perry, that was so wonderful. I long to be with you again. I love you, dear husband. I pray for you always. Your devoted wife, Gene

August 3, 1945

My darling wife Gene,

I haven't written you for about three days now. I hope you won't think I am just making excuses. I hope I'll be able to explain before too long the reasons for my apparent neglect. In the meanwhile, my sweetheart, I hope you will know that I think and long for you just the same always.

Do you know how very much I love you? I only wish I could begin to write it. I hope it won't be too long before I can at least attempt to tell you again as I used to. Remember how we used to go up on the roof and talk. That's the way I'd like to talk to you.

Do you realize that it is one year tomorrow since I first arrived in Los Angeles. I had to report to San Pedro on the 4th. This has really been quite an eventful year despite the war and conditions in general. All in all, I am very happy and feel extremely blessed for what I have that I didn't have then. Sometimes we feel rather discouraged looking at our lot as it appears to us daily, but when we look at it in a longer perspective, we see how much good can really happen in a year's time.

There is only one outstanding thing that I would like to see happen within the next year and that is to see the war over so that I would know that it wouldn't be long from then until I could be with you again for keeps (if I weren't actually with you by that time.) I, of course, don't know, but I think it should be over by that time. I doubt if it will be sooner.

It's taps now, my sweetheart, so I must close. I'll try and write to you tomorrow. I should get some mail from you too then. I love you with all my soul my darling. Always Yours, Perry

August 5, 1945 (Sunday morning)

Gene, my darling,

You can't imagine how happy two sweet letters like I received yesterday can make me. I'm glad you have a job now and feel much better. I guess your feelings are rather contagious through your letters. Sweetheart, I love you so very much--more and more all the time.

That is really swell that Pierce is back in the states now and from what you said in your letter, he is probably home by now. Surely would be good if he could stay close to LA for awhile now before coming out here. Wish I could be there while he is or get to see him, but I don't know if that will be possible.

This is the first time I have been able to sit down to a table to write since I left you and it surely does seem good for a change. I think this position is a little more conducive to good thinking as well as an improvement on my penmanship. Also, yesterday I was able to sit down to eat again. That was about the most noticeable improvement in getting rid of our passengers. Eating now is like dining in the most exclusive restaurant in comparison to what it has been the last two months. We even had a bowl of ice cream for dinner yesterday. (The first time for ages.) I guess that was to celebrate it all.

You make me rather jealous when you write about having so much fun dancing. I'm glad you can have so much fun, my darling, and I don't want you to miss any opportunity you can to have good times like that, but I only wish I could be there to enjoy it with you. Oh well, maybe my days, or our days, will come before too long. Anyway, that is what I am hoping, praying and living for.

Sundays always remind me of those wonderful Sundays we spent in LA last year. Honestly, I believe those were the happiest Sundays I ever did spend. Of course that is because I was with you and who could be other than happy with you by their side? I often love to reminisce of those nice warm days when we would walk together down Flower Street to Adams. Or of walking with you to fireside like when we walked over to Rae Bastram's through that park and I sorta frightened you. Remember? Of course I know I've mentioned all this to you many times before, but it is still one of the foremost things in my memory, especially when Sunday comes around. I love to remember and think of every moment I have spent with you, my darling, I love you so much.

I'm sure, sweetheart, you must have given a very good talk. How I wish I could have been there to hear you so I could have swelled with a little pride at my wife's ability. I missed out on the only other time you spoke too. Remember, it was when I was at San Pedro and I had to stay at the station that Sunday. I'll catch up with you one of these days though.

I'm glad to know my letters are still as good as they used to be. I hope you really mean it. I began to think they weren't staying much up to par when conditions were as they were for a while. I'll try and get you something nice that you will like if I go to Hawaii again. I didn't realize I was speaking oddly of what I was going to get you. I was only trying to remember what it was you wanted. Frankly, I would just as soon not stop there again though.

I'm going to try and get caught up on a few more letters I owe, so I'll close for now. I love you very, very much, my dear, sweet wife--with all my heart and soul. Always yours, Perry

August 8, 1945 (Wednesday morning)

Dearest husband Perry,

Oh darling, I hardly know how to begin this letter. I've missed four days not writing you. I hope you will not have noticed. It's because of what happened Friday though. Perry, I quit my new job. What must you think of me. But Perry, it was too much for me and after Friday, I felt I just couldn't take it anymore. I know it paid good money, but after standing on my feet so much of the time every day, I was so tired. They expected the employees to work overtime quite a bit too.

Well, by the time I would get home, all I wanted to do was eat dinner and go right to bed. I had to be up at 6:30 every morning. Perry, I want to keep active in the church activities. With this kind of a job, I couldn't. I guess I made a mistake in the first place of taking this job, but I had been so long out of a job and I wanted one so bad that I just grabbed it. It wasn't the kind of work I've ever done in an office anyway. I'm a typist so that's what I should stick to.

Well, after that hot, grueling day Friday, I got paid and decided it would be my last day there. My reason for leaving, to them, was that I was moving. I couldn't tell them really why. So here I am back where I started. But, for some reason, I don't feel so bad anymore. I truly do need you though, Perry. I'm so lost and alone without you, even when I'm surrounded with people.

Friday night the Adams Ward gang went on a beach party. I really enjoyed that outing. Perry, I felt like I needed it. Everyone met at the church at 6:30 pm. They had rented a big truck so everyone piled in. There were about 35 in all. We all had our bathing suits on under our slacks. We went to a beach way out in Santa Monica somewhere. We had a big bonfire and roasted wieners and marshmallows. We all got into the waves but didn't go far--the waves were so high and rough. But we played games on the beach and had such fun.

Everyone paired off on the way home except we married girls--Jewel Watts, Emily and myself. I'm so glad Pierce is having such a good time. Saturday night we all went to a farewell party at Nellie Card's house for the girl that has been living with her--a sweet little LDS girl from Wyoming. She was only here about 2 months but everyone came to love her. She and Nellie thought so much of each other. The party was a wonderful success. We played funny games and danced a great deal to music on the radio.

Oh, my Perry, I think of you and long for you to be there with me when I am having such fun. I want to share it with you. Sunday I spent a very quiet afternoon with Viola. We went to the park and sat in the shade on the grass. It was so peaceful and quiet there. I went to bed early Sunday night. I was kind of tired out from that weekend. Monday I helped Mother with the baby and that night Lewis, Viola and Shirley (the other fellow who lives here) and Pierce and I went to Chinatown for diner. (I remember when I was there with my sweetheart.) We had a lovely Chinese dinner then walked through the shops there. I wore my little crystal earrings that night too. I just love them, Perry.

Last night (Tuesday) Pierce and Lewis and I went to the Wilshire Ward dance. (They have one every first Tuesday of the month.) There was a lovely orchestra and the regular crowd of people from all the wards. I enjoyed it so--I hadn't danced for so long. (I mean a real dance.) I wore my new dress--the one Viola just finished. It's so pretty, Perry. I'll have Pierce take a picture of me in it for you.

I had a letter from you yesterday, darling, the first in quite some time. Yes, Perry, I went to the Pilgrimage Play again this year and I enjoyed it all over again. I thought of you all the while, darling. Yes, Perry, I remember every bit of our date last year. Now you are teasing me, you little monkey.

I love you, Perry, do you know that? The weather is still terribly hot here though there is always a cool breeze blowing which helps some. I understand that it is hotter than this in Utah now. Will stop here for now, Sweetheart. I do hope I get another letter soon. Come home soon too, Perry. I love you. Your devoted wife, Gene

PS. Here is a little piece of my new dress. Isn't it pretty?

I know how it is to wait and wonder

Once Dad got home from the Navy and the
children started arriving, we were Mom's
full-time job for the rest of her life.

July 25, 1945

My dear sweet Gene,

I received two of your letters today posted the 13th and 16th. They were what I had been looking for for several days now. Of course, my sweetheart, I understand why you don't write or don't feel like it when you don't get any mail. That is one thing I can understand very well because I have experienced it myself so much. Like you, I always think I'll wait another day to see if I won't get a letter because it is so much easier to write when I hear from you.

I don't like to see you feeling so blue, my darling. Please don't feel badly because you haven't found a job yet. You will probably find something soon that you will like, and anyway I didn't think so much of those screwy hours you would have had, especially if I were able to come back before too many more months. I'm sure everything will turn out well and for the best in the end.

Remember, you can only do what you can and then leave the rest to a watchful Providence. In the meanwhile, you can probably keep yourself busy and interested in doing little things you wouldn't have time to do if you were working. Above all, don't spoil your health and happiness by worrying. It isn't like you have to work every day to keep from starving. Possibly this advice is rather useless because you may even have the job you want by the time you get this letter and if not, I'm sure it won't be long. I love you, my darling, very, very much.

I thought we would be unloading all of these passengers by now, but apparently we may have to put up with them for a while yet. This ship has been made a temporary fleet replacement center. I surely hope the fleet needs them bad enough that they call for all of them in a hurry. The water situation is all right again now for the crew anyway. It has even been cooler the last few days. The only thing that bothers me now is it's being so crowded.

How I wish I could be with my darling wife to enjoy those wiener roasts, parties, church, etc. I love to be with you all the time--there has certainly never been a time when I haven't. You are so much fun to be with that it always just makes me feel good all over. I guess I'm just very much in love with you, you little rascal, or should I call you a little monkey like you do me. Anyway, you're the sweetest person in the world for me and that's why I love so much to be with you. That is also why I miss you so much when I have to be away from you.

I surely hope you will like your new place and be able to get along there all right. It surely sounds cheap enough. Do they really serve good meals there? The time before when I left, you started picking up a little weight and people started teasing you. Have they teased you anymore recently? Ain't I crazy? I'm very curious though and like to know all about my sweetheart. I love you so much.

God bless you, my darling. I think of you and shall pray for you and us constantly. I think so much and with so much expectation of the day when we can be together again forever. Surely it can't be too terribly far off. I love you, darling, with all my being. Forever, Perry

July 28, 1945

Hello Sweetheart,

Received a letter from you last night. It seems you were rather blue because you hadn't been getting any mail and hadn't found a job yet. I do hope you start getting my mail regularly again because I know how it is to go without. I do all I can to see that you hear from me often, but the last few days we have been so busy. I just haven't had time to write you these last two days.

Your mentioning the Pilgrimage Play surely did bring back memories. I was surely happy that night, but I think you were kinda' peeved with me, weren't you? How I wish I could be there to take you again. I hope you'll go again this year and think about me all the while and remember last year. Then you can tell me all about it. Even if you were mad at me last year, you didn't act like it when we were going home in the car. Do you remember? (ha, ha!)

Darling, I just this minute got one more letter from you. It was surely sweet, but then yours usually are. You still hadn't received any mail from me. Do you know your letter this time had a different kind of perfume than usual. I easily recognized it. It was that perfume I sent you when I was in Honolulu.

Darling Gene, I can understand perfectly and long for just as you do those things you say your heart fairly aches for. I don't know how long it will be, but I surely pray it won't be too long. I love you so very much. I only want to be with you forever and ever--eternally. Must go now, but will try to write you oftener. Yours, Perry

July 28, 1945 (Saturday)

My dearest Perry,

I stayed all night at mother's last night. Pierce got in about 10:00 o'clock and we sat and visited till quite late with him. It sure was wonderful to see him home again. He has a 30-day furlough. Then he will be placed in the 7th Army for duty in the Pacific. Perry, I have some pretty souvenirs he gave me from Paris, France. a pretty silver bracelet and two little hankies with the French flag and the "Arc of Triumph" embroidered on them in bright colors.

Today I worked till 3:00 pm then I went downtown and met Emily. We went shopping for a dress for her. After going into almost every department store in town, we found one to her liking. Golly, we were all tired out when we got home this evening.

Tonight we are all going over to the Adams Ward playground, Emily, Pierce and I. All the gang at church have been looking for Pierce. We ought to have fun tonight. I'll write you again tomorrow, sweetheart. I want to mail this tonight tho. I know it is only a note. I love you Perry. Your own, Gene

Hi Perry,
There's a little space left here so I won't let it go to waste. It's really swell to get back home again after almost a year. I have 30 days to sleep and eat in. Boy, what luxury! You know, it sure would be swell if you were here too. It'd be just like old times. Maybe we can all be together again soon. May God bless you and keep you.

Love, Pierce

July 29, 1945

My Darling Wife,

Today is Sunday and I had quite a long snooze this afternoon. Really seemed good. Just got through taking a good shower and right now I'm dressed in rather immodest attire, but I'm comfortable anyway. Didn't receive any mail from you today, but I received an Adams Ward news and several California Intermountains. I noticed several interesting articles about President Grant's death. Noticed also Hortense Cliger is getting married. Also received a letter from the Improvement Era offering their regrets and they are going to extend my subscription five months.

We had our services today, but our attendance is getting smaller because the fellows are getting transferred into the fleet. I imagine this is about the last Sunday we will be able to hold our services.

July 30

Sorry, my darling, but I wasn't able to finish this last night. I didn't receive any letter from my darling today, but I guess I don't deserve one every day because I haven't written every day. I hope you have started receiving my mail again now because I know how it is to wait and wonder. I hope you are assured that I am quite safe and well.

July 31, 1945

Sweetheart, I had another abrupt interruption last night again. I'm surely having a difficult time getting this letter written. I'll have to explain it all to you some time. I surely did receive a very sweet letter from you today. You found a job just as I knew you would, and it sounds like a better job than the others and pays more too. I hope you'll enjoy working there, have good associates, etc. I hope it's the kind of place where you could get a few days off occasionally if I were able to come and see you. I know you'll be able to handle it, sweetheart.

Your speaking of the playgrounds at Adams, the music and dancing surely does bring back sweet memories. Surely wish too that I could be there to take you. That was really so much fun. I love to think of every moment I spent with you though my sweetheart because it has all been so perfect. However, that doesn't overshadow the prospective good times we are yet going to have, huh? I love you so very much, my darling, and can only think of you and of the time when we can be together again. Truly Yours, Perry

I have just reread several of your last sweet letters

Perry and Gene with their first three children,
Linda, Marian and Dale

July 18, 1945

My Darling Wife,

Here it is one more day and I surely wish I had the mail before writing, but by that time it will probably be too late. I didn't get any mail at all yesterday. The foremost thought always in my mind is how wonderful I think you are and how much I love you. How I would love to be with you and hear you talk and laugh and come out with some of those spontaneous little remarks of yours, you little rascal. I surely do like to remember all the while we were together because those are the times of my life when I have really lived. As we have both said before, our happiest moments are those we have spent with each other. I know that we have a lot more happier times to spend with each other too, only I become rather impatient in waiting sometimes though.

Later, 10:00 pm

Received your letter tonight of the 9th so I've found me a secluded spot to answer it now while I'm in the mood. It surely was a very sweet letter, it even smelled sweet. What kind of powder are you using now? My sweetheart, I promise that I'll never ever leave you again when I finally get back into civilian clothes. I think I'll even hate to leave you long enough to go to work during the day. The first thing we are going to do though is to have a good long honeymoon, and I promise you, we will see plenty of canyons. We are really going to have lots of fun, aren't we?

Yes, I know that song, "Shine On." It's really very pretty. I learned it when I was a kid in primary. No, darling, I didn't misunderstand you about the poem. I hope you didn't misunderstand me. It was only the loneliness of leaving you again that made me write it. And I'm sure you will do more than your part in bringing about harmony and happiness. It is only with myself that I am concerned.

Sweetheart, I love you so very much, with all my heart, and only want to be with you forever which is my constant prayer. Always, Perry

July 19, 1945

My Darling Gene,

Hello my sweet little wife. This is going to be a sort of hurry-up letter because I don't have very much time. I just wanted to tell you that you probably won't be hearing from me for a few days. I waited to let you know so you wouldn't feel badly or wonder when you didn't receive any mail from me. I always want you to be assured that when you don't get any mail, it is all unavoidable.

Your letter of last night was surely sweet. I stayed up after the movie to finish writing you. The show was "Mutiny on the Bounty." I never did see it before so I quite enjoyed it. I never can fully enjoy a show or anything though unless I have you by my side. I have some pretty pleasant memories in that regard. Nothing much of interest happens around here except that we are getting a new captain. He will take command tomorrow.

Your mention of watermelon surely made me "drool." There isn't much I like better than a good cold melon on a hot day. Guess we'll have to include that in when we go on some of our canyon parties and picnics, huh? I received a small photo of Hazel in her cap and gown. She said she was sending a large one to you for us.

Well my sweetheart, I've got to be going now if I get this mailed. I promise to get a letter to you just as soon as I can, which shouldn't be long. Hope you will be able to keep cheerful and happy in the meantime. Judging from your recent letters, you seem to be feeling a little better now. I surely hope so. I love you very much, my darling wife, and think and pray for you always. I love you, Perry

July 22, 1945

My Darling Wife,

This is another Sunday and I think this is about the hottest day we've had on this trip. Almost as hot as some of those days in LA. Not nearly as pleasant though. We just got through holding our church services. I imagine it will be our last one because I think our passengers will soon be getting off.

I was talking to the chaplain's assistant the other day, the one who called you up, and he said he noticed especially what a good, very sweet voice you had. I thought it was rather coincidental because you had mentioned that he had a good voice too.

My darling, I have just reread several of your last sweet letters. They were so very sweet. I enjoy them every time I read them. I realize so much more all the time what a dear, sweet wife I have and only want one thing and that is to be with you and our little home and children. I love you so very much, my darling, you are the only one I can think of.

I think I sometimes go around here looking rather glum, but it is only because I am thinking so strongly of you. When I am finally out of the Navy, I hope I will never have to leave you again. I'm sure I won't if I have anything to say about it.

I received a letter from those people back in Sioux Falls. (Mr. & Mrs. Wood) They sent me some pictures of their little kids. The two little girls sent me a special card with little pansies on it. I taught them the song "Little Purple Pansies." That's pretty sweet, don't you think?

My sweetheart, I'll close now, but will go on thinking of you just the same. Nothing can stop me from doing that. I love you very much and will love you forever. Always Yours, Perry

July 23, 1945

My Darling Gene,

I'm hoping that soon we'll get rid of our passengers and then things won't be so crowded so I can sit down to write you and be able to think and concentrate a little better. I'm also hoping I'll get this off to you tomorrow as well as receive some, but I'm not sure. I love your letters so much. That is all I have to look forward to from one day to the next and from one place to the next destination. I was disappointed they didn't have that course I put in for. It would have kept my mind occupied. I'm going to put in for something else though that will be useful to me.

Tomorrow will be the 24th. I get rather jealous when I read about all of those nice times you have back there, only jealous that I can't be with you. And tomorrow I suppose Adam's will have something special. Oh well, I'll have a celebration too if I get some mail from you. That is about the best celebration I could possibly have out here.

Are you still having lots of good times, my darling? I'm surely glad the church affords so many activities for you. You can really see its practical value in our everyday lives, can't you, and besides just look at all the good people one can meet. Not mentioning any names, but I am thinking of the sweetest person I ever will meet. I knew that was where I would find you. My sweetheart, I love you with all my soul and am so very thankful for you. I only long to be with you forever.

I want to write several other letters so they will go off in the mail tomorrow so must leave you for now. I love you, Perry

July 24, 1945

Dearest husband Perry,

I'm not very regular in my writing to you, darling. Perry, please don't be angry with me. I haven't had a minute to myself since last week. It seems something comes up every night. There has been so much going on at the church these past few weeks too.

My darling, your letters are so sweet and mean so very much to me. Two came yesterday--the one you wrote on our anniversary (9th) and the other of the 15th. Oh Perry, I love you so. Yes, Perry, I guess some of my letters to you weren't very good. I was feeling so blue before I got my job. Please don't worry or fret, darling, I'm feeling much better now. But only you, sweetheart, can make me happy. I don't want to live without you, Perry. You are so much a part of me.

I started work on my new job Monday. It's just a regular office job in a small company on 14th Street. I think I shall like it there. The hours are rather long, but I shall get used to it. We work from 8:00 to 5:00 and have an hour for lunch. I do quite a bit of filing--no typing so far. I have a ride to work and home now so that will be a help too.

It seems I've been going somewhere every night this week too. Golly, I just can't do that--not when I have to get up so early every morning. the celebration has lasted for three nights at the ward and I had to go to that. I'm rather glad tonight was the last night though because it keeps me up too late (in fact everyone.)

Tonight there were so many people there, Perry. I kept meeting people I haven't seen for a long time. Carol Snow was there and, Perry, she is married again. I met her husband tonight. Perry, he is Japanese. It fairly rendered me speechless when I found out. His name is Moto, or something like that. He seems very nice though. I understand he is not a member of the church as yet. How strange that she should marry like that. But she seems so happy and in love and looks so well too. I didn't get to talk very much with her but since they are living in the ward now, I will be seeing her oftener. They are going to join our chorus. There was such a lovely orchestra at the ward last night. I danced nearly every dance too, Perry. Oh, I enjoyed it so much.

(Next morning) We got home (Viola and I) so late last night. I wanted to write you so bad. It was quite late, but anyway I started this letter. I was too tired to finish. This morning I got up at 7:00 and had to catch my ride at 7:30, but I made it and here I am at work, 20 minutes early.

Gene's father Emmett (center)
with her two brothers,
Richard (left) and Pierce (right)

Oh Perry, Pierce is in the U.S. and will be here this weekend. I'm so excited. He sent Mother a telegram Sunday. The weather here has been so terribly hot the past few weeks--even the nights are warm. I sure wish it would let up soon. The ceilings are so low here in the office which makes this place very uncomfortable while working.

Oh Perry, Sunday was such a pleasant day for me. After Sunday school, Ferris Kent invited me to her house--some of the kids came along later. We made up a picnic lunch and drove up to Griffith Park and spent a quite, lazy afternoon. That evening the chorus sang two numbers in Sacrament service. Fireside was held at Nellie Card's house. She lives quite a ways out but most all of the younger crowd piled into three cars and we all drove out. Guess who the speakers were?

Yes, darling, your little Gene was the first one to speak. I gave a talk on "the first 24th of July celebration." I didn't get scared a bit this time, Perry, in fact I enjoyed it. Everyone told me it was a good talk and all liked it. Then Emily gave a talk and then Clarence Erspamer (I don't think you know him.) He is a convert too. His talk and Emily's were so wonderful. They bore their testimonies and, oh Perry, such a wonderful feeling came into our midst at that meeting. I don't know how to explain it, Perry. How I wish you could have been there to hear it all. I know it strengthened everyone's testimony that was there--about 20 or 25 were there.

I must hurry this letter off to you now. I'll write again tonight, Sweetheart. Lovingly your own, Gene. I love you, Perry.

I'm surely glad you like to take walks

Perry, graduate with BA degree at University of Utah
in elementary education, 1950

July 14, 1945

My Darling Wife Gene,

Sweetheart, today I was very happy to receive four of your letters. I have been looking forward to them ever since I left the other place we were at. My darling, of course I understand what you mean when you say how you wish you or we had some place we could settle down permanently, and I thought you expressed yourself very well. Those are the things I want and think of constantly. It's pretty disconcerting to want something so badly and not be able to do anything about it but wait. I always like to think about what someone has said that often we are nearer to realizing our hopes than we sometimes think. I will surely pray for this.

If I should be able to come back again, would there be someplace for me (or us) to stay at your new place? Do you have a telephone? If so, what is the number? Of course next time I come back, I would like to have a leave so we could go back to Utah and really have a good "honeymoon," but I rather doubt, now, if that will be very soon.

I was rather disappointed to receive a letter that the institute is out of the course for Radio Broadcasting. Guess I'll have to wait for that, but I guess I can take something else that will be useful.

Yes, Sweetheart, next time I come in, I would really like to take you to a dance, something formal, like the Gold and Green, Sweethearts, or Harvest Balls, maybe at Wilshire. Or if we were able to go home, maybe something even better. That's why I would like to buy you that white formal. I would want to make it a very special occasion, especially if it were somewhere around our anniversary.

I surely do hope Pierce can come home before he goes to the Pacific. Does Rick expect to be able to come home first too?

Well, it was just eleven months ago tonight when--well, it was one night I will never forget. I will always remember how you said, "Why don't you guys do something?" You were pretty cute, you little rascal. Do you remember how many questions I was asking while I was dancing with you? Bet you didn't realize what all those questions were going to ultimately lead to, did you? I love you very, very much, my darling.

Yes, I would really like to go to the beach with you. I'm trying to get a tan just in case I might be able to sometime. I surely wouldn't want you to be more tan than I. Our time together has been so terribly short that we absolutely must do lots of things to try and make up for it when the war is over. Let's make that promise to each other, huh? Of course we won't have to be partying and on the go all the time to make it up. One of the most enjoyable things I can think of is when we would stay home and listen to pretty music while I held you in my arms.

What I mean is we will do a lot of the best of everything. We have even had an awful lot of fun just taking walks, haven't we? I'm surely glad you like to take walks. But above all, we must never let anything, which we can possibly help, mar one moment of our happiness. This separation should have taught us that if nothing else.

Well, my dear wife, I will have to close now but my hopes, thoughts, and prayers for, of, and about you will go on unceasingly.  Always Yours, Perry

PS. Gene, if I should send you to the Manx, I don't think it will be before September.

July 15, 1945

My Darling Wife Gene,

Gene at the beach

Today I received your letter with the pictures in it. The pictures were very good, especially the one of you in the water. It's really good, sorta made me drool. (ahem) What's the matter, sweetheart, that you don't feel so good anymore? Don't my letters help to cheer you up anymore? Of course I think I can understand how you feel. Please don't worry about not finding a job because you will probably find one soon, and in the meanwhile you can just sorta take it easy--sort of a vacation. Above all, don't worry about it.

Well darling, I will surely try and get those things you want. We'll probably have to get them one at a time, but I hope to be able to have them in time, especially the piano. The other two, I consider as necessities. Of course, as you say, the civilian clothes come first. I think that will be by far the happiest day of my life when I can don them again. Just read the news today about the 3rd fleet shelling the coast of Japan, so I hope that day (the civilian clothes) won't be too long now. It shouldn't be if the Japanese would only face the inevitable.

Today is Sunday and this afternoon it was quite nice and warm and reminded me of some of those Sundays back in LA. I was on watch but wasn't very busy so I just reminisced of those Sundays with you. As I look back on it now, I realize they were the happiest days of my life. I love you so very much, my darling, and can think only of you.

Thanks a lot for sending me the pictures, sweetheart. You know how I like to have pictures of you, you little "glamour girl." I know it's hard for you to get film. Do you still want me to write requesting for some? If so, just let me know and how you want me to put it. Do you think it will work?

I see you still have some of that stationery "Snow fun to be alone." It's pretty cute--just like you. My darling, I surely do hope you will get to feeling better soon. My prayers will be constantly for you. I love you, Perry

July 17, 1945

My Darling Sweetheart,

Received another sweet letter of your again last night. I have it here now and have just reread it several times. It is so very sweet--just like you. I surely do hope you get that job if that is what you want. The hours are kinda bad, but I suppose you can get used to that. I'm sure all will come out for the best. If you don't get that, you will probably get one better.

Sweetheart, I'm glad you enjoy my letters so much. That is my purpose in writing and that's the way I'll always try to make them, but it doesn't seem to me like they are as good as they used to be. What do you think? Please tell me the truth. I don't know what is the matter unless it's because I've found it such a poor substitute for actually being with you, holding you in my arms and talking with you, especially since I was with you last. That is all I want is just to be with you forever and realize all of our hopes and dreams which we have talked about. I do love you very much, my dear, sweet wife.

Darling, there was something you wanted me to buy you if I ever went to Hawaii again. I don't know if I will, and I'm not even hinting that I might, but just in case I should some time, I would like to buy you what it was you wanted. Sweetheart, there are a lot more and bigger things I want to buy for you, but that will have to wait until I come back. Must leave you now. I love you, my darling. Always, Perry

July 17, 1945 (Tues. evening)

My dearest husband Perry,

Nothing in the mail for me today. I do hope my darling is safe and all right. Surely there will be a letter tomorrow. Oh, Perry, I don't know what I would do without your dear letters. I wrote you this morning before I left the house, but tonight I wanted to write you again. I'm afraid my letters aren't much good anymore--not in very happy moods since being out of a job reflects in everything I do it seems. But I have been praying about it, Perry, so I know everything will come out right soon.

I have decided to try the telephone company. They are always advertising for girls--for operators--as well as office work. Tomorrow morning early I shall go and see them. I don't know what they pay but think it would be better than what I made at Bullocks. Their hours are pretty good too.

Today Viola and I went to several department stores in town to see about office work. But they told us frankly they couldn't pay us what we had been getting on our other jobs, so we gave up the idea of working in department stores. (Bullocks is the best paying store in LA.)

I stopped off at Mother's on the way home. She had not received any mail all day. I guess she was as disappointed as I was. Little Ricky surely is growing. He is walking all around the house now. He likes to hang on to Mother's dress and follow her from room to room. Such a cute little boy. I do believe he loves Mom best of all now.

Guess Emily plans on working till Dick comes home, but of course after that she will be a wife and a mother again. That's what I want to be too, more than anything else in this world, dear husband. I want to truly be your wife and be a mother. My heart fairly aches for this.

Viola and I are both writing letters tonight. We had a lovely dinner. Viola made a meatloaf with vegetables and gravy. We had the radio on all evening and heard so many lovely music programs, one right after another. Do you hear radio programs often, darling?

I'm wondering if your ship is still carrying that crowd of passengers. It seems they have been aboard a long time. Where are you taking them? Oh, what a silly question--how can you tell me that. What I really want to know is when will I be seeing my darling? Will it be more than five months this time? Surely not longer than that. I shall write again tomorrow, Sweetheart. I love you, Perry. Your devoted wife, Gene

Right now I'd like to be able to give you a big kiss

Perry and Gene with first 4 children (far right)
at a family gathering in Salt Lake City, 1951

July 6, 1945

Dearest Gene,

Little disappointed--no letter for the last two days. I usually feel like a letter from you is necessary before I can write a very good one, but I've already missed one day so I guess I hadn't better delay any longer. I got paid yesterday so I guess I'll send you my tithing for the last three months. I would send it today in this letter but the post office was closed for inspection so I'll probably send it in a separate letter tomorrow or Monday. Are you keeping my tithing receipts? I could also send some to go in with our savings, but I think I'll wait until I get a little more. I surely haven't been able to save much it seems. I just got my own personal debts paid and just started getting caught up when I came back to the states and really went through it. I surely don't regret that however, I'm sure you know.

The condition is getting worse here. It's so hot and with so many passengers aboard we use so much water that there wasn't enough for the boiler. Now you are lucky if you can even get a saltwater shower. Don't even have any to brush your teeth in unless you swipe some out of the scullery or some other place where it is available. Most of the time, not all, we have had enough to drink though and last night that was even shut off.

Well, I guess as long as we don't run out of food, such as it is, and I can live with the hope of coming back to see you before too long, I guess I can get along quite well. Anyway, there is nothing seriously wrong with this situation, but it can surely be mighty unpleasant.

Well Sweetheart, I guess that isn't a very good way to write a letter. It surely isn't the kind of a cheerful letter you like, is it? I surely wouldn't want you to worry or be too concerned because things aren't quite as bad as they will probably sound to you. Guess it's just the mood I am in. Conditions in general have made me rather disgusted.

Have you found another job yet? I surely do hope you can find something satisfactory, something that you will enjoy doing. How do you like your new little home? You never did tell me what the address was. Do you have a telephone there? I would surely like to pop in on you some night and surprise you. It looks like it is going to be longer until I can see you than I thought before. The day I can come back for good is the day I am really looking for though. It would surely be wonderful if we could be together on our anniversary, wouldn't it? Or even Christmas, like last year. Any time with you would be perfect though.

I try not to build up my hopes too much lest they should have too big of a fall, but then even the most unexpected things can happen sometimes. When I first came out, I expected to be out here for the duration and I've already been back once. You see, all I can think about, my darling, is of the time and times when I can be with you. I surely do love you with all my heart and soul. Right now I'd like to be able to give you a big kiss. Guess I'll have to leave you for now. Surely do hope I'll get a letter tomorrow. Please, Sweetheart, tell me everything. Forever your lover, Perry

Linda, Marian, Dale and baby Jan in the carriage, 1951

July 9, 1945 (Monday)

Dearest husband Perry,

Darling, your letters are arriving so quickly that I feel that you are not so far away. Your letter of July 4th came today. It was postmarked the 6th. Is your ship still anchored off that little island with nothing to do?

Yes, Perry, I know what the 24th is. Adams Ward has quite a celebration each year but of course it can't be anything like the celebrating in Utah. That's something I am looking forward to. Oh yes, darling, it will be such a wonderful day when you get out of the Navy to be a civilian again, and Perry, I'll never let you leave me then, not ever. Tell me you'll never leave me then, Perry.

Viola's niece has been here (She is from Salt Lake, about 14 years old.) spending a few weeks vacation with her aunt and uncle. I had to mention her here cause she has been playing some pretty church hymns on Lewis's organ. (She plays well.) There are a few that I didn't recognize. One was so pretty, Perry. It's called "Shine On." I've never heard it before. Do you know it?

Today I called the man at the Methodist hospital who interviewed me for that job. But he said he was still interviewing girls and had not decided on anyone yet. He told me to call back about 10:00 tomorrow morning. So I guess he is still considering me.

Golly, it sure was a very hot day today. I knew it was summer for sure. We had watermelon this evening after supper. It was such a good one. Viola and Lewis were telling me about the times (in July) when they would go way up into the canyons (in Salt Lake) on watermelon parties--up where there was snow. Golly, is it really like that Perry!--snow in July I mean? You know I want to see some of those canyons, Perry. I've never seen one.

Oh, darling, don't misunderstand me about your last poem to me. It was so beautiful, Perry. It's only that I wouldn't have you feeling so sad or blue, and dear husband, I promise you that I shall always try and want to keep harmony and happiness in our lives. I want to be all that you believe of me dearest Perry. I know that it is because we are so separated that makes us feel so very depressed at times, but this can't be for long, I know. The Lord will bring you back to me very soon, my sweetheart, for we have been promised so much happiness. I love you with all my heart and soul, my dear husband. Always your own, Gene

July 10, 1945

My Darling Sweetheart,

Guess by now you should be able to realize why you haven't heard from me for the last few days. As long as you know the reason, though, it is better because I know how it is to continually look for a letter and wonder. I always try to write to you regularly when we are in port.  

[July 5, 1945 - Liberation of Philippines declared. July 10, 1945 - 1000 bomber raids against Japan begin.]

I have the money order for my tithing. It is $21.48, $7.16 per month for the months of April, May and June. Will you give it to the bishop for me and keep the receipts? I'm sending the money order in a separate letter. I'm surely eagerly looking forward to when I can get those sweet letters of yours again. I didn't get any for about for days before we left, but I'm sure I'll have some waiting for me at my next destination.


I think the last letter I wrote you wasn't such a very good one. It's too bad that is the last one I could get off to you before leaving. The situation has improved somewhat now. At least we have water now and can shower and keep clean. I will surely be glad when we get rid of all of these passengers though.


It's hard to write now until I hear from you and right now it's rather inconvenient and the lights will soon go out so I'm hurrying. I can't pour out my love very well when I'm being rushed. I love you though, my darling, more than ever I could express in words anyway. I think and dream of you constantly. forever your loving husband, Perry


July 11, 1945


My Darling Gene,


Well my sweetheart, here I am again. I should have some mail from you tomorrow. Consequently, I find it rather difficult to settle down or do anything at all. If I have some mail from you tomorrow, though, I promise you an extra special good letter. Do you remember what happened just eleven months ago tomorrow. That was the most profitable evening I ever did spend because just remember who I met that night. You'll never know all the thoughts that went through my mind that night. Surely do wish I could be with you so we could celebrate it in some special way together, but as it is, I guess we'll have to celebrate it as best we can just thinking about it and with thankfulness that we have each other. I hope by next year we will be able to celebrate most all of our special occasions together. We really have quite a few, you know, from August through December. Do you know what I mean?


Have you your new job yet? I surely will be glad when you can quit working around like that, won't you? And when that day comes, it will be the beginning of the fulfillment of all of the rest of our hopes and dreams. Sweetheart, I love you very much and can only think of those things we have both talked about and desire so much. Sweetheart, I'll close now and will eagerly wait for your letters tomorrow. Please when you write, tell me all about yourself, all you do and everything you think. In that way, I can still live with you in thought. I love you my darling, Perry


July 13, 1945


My Darling Wife,


This is Friday the thirteenth. It's an extra special day, isn't it? I promise you that when I come back for good, we are really going to make every Friday the 13th a very special day because it was the luckiest day of my life last year, just nine months ago. Darling, I received your letter today, the one you wrote on the 4th. You sounded as though you were a little bit blue. How I wish I could hold you in my arms as you long for me too, but the best I can do now is to write and tell you my love the best I can that way--a very poor substitute, isn't it?


Sweetheart, I surely do hope you can find the kind of a job you want, one you will enjoy doing, and I will pray for you, my darling, just as you asked me to. How do you like living with Viola by now? I surely do hope it works out well so that you won't have to be moving around so much any more. It will probably help you to keep from getting blue too now that you have someone to be with.


Well, darling, I must leave you now, but will be with you in my thoughts always, and so till tomorrow when I write again, I'll say goodbye. Your loving husband, Perry

If we were back in Utah, we could celebrate the 24th too

July 1, 1941 (Sunday 1:00 pm)

My Darling Wife,

I'm starting this letter to you now but hope to finish it this evening after I have a letter from you. I hope I'm not disappointed.  This morning we went over to a ship that was anchored near us to hold our service. I was on the signal bridge when we got a message saying they were holding LDS services over there. It was really quite nice as we had a larger group. There were 20 in all. A lieutenant in the Marine Corps took charge. So you see, I'm not missing out entirely in my church services. I've been more fortunate in meeting LDS fellows this time than I was before.

July 2, 1945

I was going to finish this up last night, but I became pretty busy and was busy up until midnight. Last night I received two very sweet letters from you, my sweetheart. One of them had a very sweet kiss in it. I could almost feel it.

Darling, I'm glad you did decide to go on the chorus outing even if you weren't able to write to me. It sounds like you had a lot of fun and that is good for you. I hope you will take in all the good recreation you can while I am away. I only wish I could have been there to enjoy it with you. I noticed Gene Manwaring's name was on the program. (Hmmm)

Perry worked hard to build a nice home from what had
once been an old cinder-block chicken coop on the
property behind his parent's home in Salt Lake City

When you mention how you long for our little home and children, you are not only expressing your own thoughts but mine also and I love to have you mention it. Hazel is moving to Salt Lake. She didn't like paying so much for rent or else have to live in some dingy old place, so she has decided to buy a small home there. She says it's a small five-year-old brick home with lawn, shrubs, a garden spot and a garage. She said she would surely be glad when we could come and visit them. Hope and June are going to live there with her too. I told her if by any chance she didn't want to keep it, maybe you and I would buy it from her after the war.

Must close now, my darling. I love you very much and will love you forever. Eternally yours, Perry

July 2, 1945

My Darling Wife,

Over the years, more children were
born and the little house in Salt Lake
was improved upon and enlarged

I just received another letter from you today dated the 21st. Sweetheart, I know you are getting awful blue and very tired of looking for a letter and never finding one. I knew you would be as we were underway longer than either of us expected I guess. I know that you realize, however, that it is something that can't be avoided and that I always try to get you a letter just as soon as possible.

Darling, I can understand why your letters are short. Mine are the same way when I don't get any mail for quite a while. They are still very sweet though and your three little kisses were exceptionally sweet, and I loved where you said, "My sweetheart of all my dreams." Do you still remember the poem: "Oh maker of dreams, will you sell me a dream of a homecoming sailor boy with a sweet old smile on his nut brown face and his eyes telling tales in their joy."

I'm surely getting tired of this place we are at now. I always feel as though if we would get moving, I would be back to see you again sooner. I can't see much sense in the way they rushed us out of the States so fast just to be around here. Probably there is a purpose in it somehow and if not, I guess it's just as well I don't know about it because it would only give me too much more to gripe about. As it is, I only hope somebody knows what they are doing.

Will get this off in the mail tonight. Two letters today will pay for me not getting my other finished yesterday. I love you with all my heart my lovely wife. Forever Yours, Perry

Perry added a living room with patio and fireplace to the
original structure. This is the way the home in Salt Lake looked
shortly before it was sold and the family moved to California

July 4, 1945

Hello Sweetheart,

Today I received your first letter after you had received mine and was surely glad to detect your happier spirit. Only wish I could be there to be happy with you and make you even much happier. I'm sorry the poem carried such a depressed tone. Guess they usually reflect the mood I am in at the time. When I can be back with you, I should really be able to write something cheery. But now is really when you need it, isn't it? Perhaps when I'm feeling extra chipper, I'll make a special effort to write something a little more in a pleasanter vein.

Darling, your letter was so very sweet, but of course it just reflectes the way you are--that's why I love your letters so much. I'm glad if you feel you are so lucky. I'll really try to always make you feel so. It was rather coincidental about you seeing the show "Experiment Perilous." We saw it just tonight--the same day I received your letter about seeing it. Like you said, it was rather exciting, but I didn't care for it so extra super-special.

Notice the date of this letter. If it weren't for the calendar to remind me, I wouldn't even know it is a holiday. I wonder what you are doing. Holidays don't mean much though unless I can be with you. Any day or any time I can be with my sweetheart is a holiday for me though--the best of all holidays. When I get out of the Navy, I just want to spend one happy holiday with her--one holiday which will last for all my life and all eternity. I love you, my darling, so very much.

What did you do for the 4th? Anything special or exciting? If we were back in Utah, we could celebrate the 24th too. Bet you never did celebrate the 24th did you? It's really a bigger time than the fourth back home. Oh well, I always have to content myself with the thought that we will really celebrate some of these days and then we will do all those things we have wanted to do for so long and do all the other celebrating we want to.

Well, my sweetheart, I'll have to leave you for now. Know this though that my heart goes out and along with every letter. I love you truly and with all my heart. Always Yours, Perry