Aboard USS PINE ISLAND
Fred writes to his parents and sister Iva Mae . . .
Dearest Mom, Dad & Mae,
Well, how is everyone at home today. With me everything is fine. I received a couple letters yesterday that have been trying to catch up with me ever since I left Pensacola Fla. ...
Mae I want you to play Santa Clause for me.
Take one of my checks and give yourself $20.00, get Mom & Dad something that you think they would like.
Buy something for each one of George's kids and give it to them when they come up for Xmas. Get something for George & Thelma ...
Tell those kids when they come up that I passed Old Santa Clause on his way up from the South Pole, and sent their presents back by him ...
Love to all,
Your Sailor
Fred W.