May 29, 1942
Friday noon
Ft. Ord, California
Dear Folksies,
We have taken three pretty good hikes this week. Two were down along the beach and we found that we would not like to be sent to Libya, particularly if we are going to wear these heavy shoes. One sinks down so much in the sand that it is about three times the work that it is to walk on ordinary ground. We also climbed several sand banks along the beach, banks that went almost straight up and one slid down two feet for every foot taken uphill. We took one long hike that was on decent ground – about 9 miles. During that hike we also went over an obstacle course and landing net.
As you know, the Pacific Coast is on the alert, so Salinas is about as far as we are being allowed – no weekends – all days alike, with nights off beginning at about 4 P.M.
This kind of mixes up our pre-arranged plans, but how’s this for a suggestion: You come down Saturday or Sunday and then drive back up to S.F. on Monday A.M. Anyway, use your own judgment and let me know what you think best. Of course, if they decide to un-alert the Coast next week, then things will be changed again but I doubt if it will be that fast.
Loads of love,
.
