January 6, 1946
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Dear Mother and Dad,
Once again “I have returned”—if I may borrow a phrase from MacArthur. Everything is about the same as usual. The train ride was quite enjoyable and not really as monotonous as riding in the daytime. I always like to revel in the luxury of a lower berth.
I found everyone quite pessimistic yesterday morning for they had just read of the Army’s slowdown in demobilization. It is quite unfair and I for one am plenty sore about it. I see in tonight’s paper that there is much discontent in the Philippines over the announcement. I know how those men overseas must feel—first they were told it was a lack of ships and now they are given some other feeble excuse.
Sec. Patterson[1] is making a
[1] Robert P. Patterson, the Secretary of War from September 1945 until July 1947.
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fool of himself over there with his stupid remarks. If once could believe what he says, he apparently doesn’t know anything about the War Department policy.
Drew Pearson was good tonight. I imagine you heard him. He wanted to know why our troops are being kept in the Philippines—a friendly country. Enclosed is a clipping on the 86th. That really makes me mad! I think this whole affair will again reach the vote-minded Congress soon.
What is the reason for the rates being so outrageous in Florida? I do hope you can find a place.
Yesterday it poured when I arrived but then the sun came out and it was quite warm and beautiful.
Today it was actually hot and it was beautiful weather another until late this P.M. when it once again began to rain.
The rumors about 2nd Army moving are stronger than ever. Ft. Benjamin Harrison is the only place rumored and some say by the 1st of March, others say earlier, and still others later.
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The same thing has happened every time I have made a move in the Army—dozens of rumors before anything official is announced. I understand the city wants to use the fairgrounds soon.
Tell Claire I received a notice from the “Reader’s Digest.”
Last night I saw the play “Pick-Up Girl.” It played to a small audience—perhaps because it was the third night. Some probably went to see it because they were lured by the title, but most probably stayed away because of the title. However it does provide a very intelligent approach to a most serious social problem.
Wednesday I plan to attend the “Ballet Russe,” and a week from Tuesday is the Memphis Symphony with Marjorie Lawrence as guest soloists.
Saw “They Were Expendable” this evening.
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Not much else of interest to write about. Let me hear from you. Love to you both.
Jerome, Jr.
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Front of Envelope
