Dear Mom & Folks:
Well I imagine you wonder why I haven't written lately. So many wonderful things have happened, so fast, I could hardly keep up with them myself.
First of all, I couldn't write because I was at Sea. I now have my Sea legs and am really qualified to be called an old salt. I think I'll be pleased with Sea for I certainly liked this trip. Of course the circumstances of it are so strange.
I had expected to finish up in the practical workers, then start classes. But, three other cadets and myself were chosen with a selected crew of enlisted men to go on this cruise. How and why is still a mystery to me. But, the four of us were the envy of the whole base. Everyone wanted to go. If we could have sold our berths we would have made real money. There were three deck and and one engine cadet. We were told to pack and get our dress uniforms and report to a ship, a cutter in the canal which was waiting - the "Alfreg Haag". We were told then that we were picked for our military bearing and attitude and a few other general qualities which were liked. We left within two hours. We worked with the crew, officers, mess-men, etc. We still didn't know what it was all about; it was like a dream. While at Sea we ran into a hurricane - the season has started down here. It is the same one that hit Galveston, Texas, so bad. The wind and the rain were terrific and the ship really rolled; it was fun trying to walk around the decks. The food on board was wonderful. If all seamen eat like we did, oh boy I'm all for it - steaks, chops, roasts, all kinds of fruit, vegetables, etc. I've learned how to keep from getting seasick and I wasn't bothered a bit. After the storm we headed S S W and soon we were seeing all kinds of shipping - we were on the inter-coastal shipping lane - it was swell.
Then one morning we were told ro get everything ship-shape and get into our dress uniforms. We soon headed into some locks and then into the good old muddy Mississippi and upstream to New Orleans. There we docked at the foot of canal street. There was a big parade, all kids of boats, ships, etc., flags, banners - It was Port Day for New Orleans and they were dedicating the new industrial canal with a ship parade through it. We then understood a little of what we were doing there. We stayed out in the middle of the stream until the boats got lined up and then headed for a small group on dock. The whole ship crew was decked out in white, etc. The we escorted Gov. Jones of Louisiana, Com. McPhee, Speaker of the House Rayborn and many dignitaries through the new canal. Afterwards we were given liberty in New Orleans.
While in New Orleans I saw the Cirino's, the new house, etc. We spent the evening together - had a nice time. She is going to write you Mom and tell you about it.
The trip back was fun, but not too eventful. We raced a "Q" boat and won. Also, will tell you a few more things when I get home, but can't now. When we finally got back to the base we had a real welcome; it was one of the best.
The next day at inspection it was announced that four other and myself were appointed section leaders. It was quite a shock, but its true.
The same day my name was on the bulletin to report before Mast at 1630. When I was called up before Commander Champeau with four other cadets and we were given our Navy Oath. I am now in the U.S.M.M., and also in the U.S.N.R., and now wear my Navy wings of gold. They look terrific. I just don't understand everything happening so fast. I am the first in our group to be sworn in and some of the fellows are really green, especially the real older ones.
Monday I start classes. I only hope I can keep up with them. So far I've had all the brakes. I think I can make the top in this outfit; have a swell start.
Being as I won't have much time, wish you would read this to Dot, Allen, Gene and whoever what to hear it. I have to close now. Will write you all again soon. Give my love to everybody.
Midshipman Bud.
P.S. Say all the prayers you can for my scholastics.
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