March 20, 1968

Dear Mom and Dad,

            Well, I’ve settled back into the hectic routine of life on the line.  We rearmed for the second time this morning.  We’ve been firing a lot of five inch lately and it took us three hours to get rid of all the empty powder cans, not to mention bringing on fresh ammo.  Altogether we were alongside for six hours.

            We’re refueling tonight at 11:00 and I’ve got the mid watch so there won’t be much sleep for me.  We’re firing constantly again and it does take some getting used to.  The worst part is having your tray jump every time they fire when you’re eating chow.  It’s really rather disturbing!

            I’ve enclosed some pictures and negatives that need developing.  I still need more pictures of myself, or copies, to send to friends.  I’m sending the pictures to you first so you can pick out the good ones.  I sent one real good one of me to a girl in California, but I’ve enclosed the negative.

                                                                        Love,

                                                                                    Michael