Dearest John & Zola-

I was so glad to get your letter and have all the news. I enjoyed it so much. Wish you would write more. Of course, I could do better my self so I'll try.

I sent you a couple of pairs of salt & peper shakers today, hand made in Hawaii. I got them for 45¢ a pair so that's the reason for two pair. I think they are typical of Hawaii. Hope your friend likes them. Don't send me any money for souvenirs because come Christmas I'm going to send everyone some for a Christmas present. However, don't expect too much so our family is pretty big as you know.

Well, I don't think I'm going to get in the air corpes. My Colonel disapproved my application, and I talked with him a long time about it but he wouldn't change his mnd. He said he wouldn't let any of his trained artillery officers leave here 'til their time was up. I'm kinda glad now 'cause I would have had to stay three extra years in the army and I don't want that. I'd like to get out as quick as I can and get started in some business 'cause I can't afford to waste any more time.

By the way, John, my car is paid for now. I paid for it in August. I borrowed $200 here for three months for $2.00 and with what I saved, I paid off the bumper note. And now I've already paid this bank so I'm completely out of debt for the first time since I've been out of school. If you hear of any good place to invest some mney, let know because after the first of the year I'm sure going to save some. No telling what will happen when I get out. I have the note you co-signed with me for the car. I'd like to keep it. My car is running fine and looks about as good as the day I bought it. I keep it shined and clean. Have to or it will rust over here. I've gotten 99 out of it on this island. I quit driving fast though after the cops got me. Didn't cost but $10.00. I was driving 65 in a 35 mile zone. How's the Zephgr doing?

Sure wish you all could come over here. We could sure have a time at some of the places here. However, it sure cost so I don't go out very much. I've met quite a few girls and have been having a pretty good time. In this climate you take about three good drinks and you're tight. Sure doesn't take much. But don't tell anyone I even told you this.

How is Lonzo? I hope his leg is better now. Tell them all hello for me. How are the boys? They'll be so big when I get back, I'll probably won't recognize them. Tell them hello for me and I'll send them something for Christmas. Must close now so don't guess I'll see you Christmas. Probably be another year but it won't be long. Do write soon, and hope all of you are well.

Love, Phil

Note He kept the car until his battery shipped out for Guadalcanal. It had not been damaged except for chipped paint. He sold it to a family in Honolulu. It was a 1940 Dodge. Green.

Pearl Harbor Survivor - Phillip L. Daffron