Jake moves to Ohio and his graduation photos arrive

[mgc1961]

Jake has finished his advanced training at George Field, graduated, and went home while he was on leave. In the first of two letters, Jake has a chance to look over the new field at Lockbourne (Columbus, OH) and tells his Dad that successful completion of his training there means he won't go immediately into combat as a co-pilot.

In the second letter, Jake tells his mother that the photos from his graduation ceremony arrived and he gives her instructions about what size and how many of the photos to have made. He also tells her learning to the fly the B-17 won't be too difficult with the necessary time and effort applied.

The first letter is postmarked 02 June 1943.

From Lockbourne A.A.B.

Columbus, OH

Dear Dad,

The trip up here was long and hard but it was worth everything just to get home again. I'm sorry I didn't get to see more of you. I never seem to be able to get to talk to you at all. Maybe you and I will be able to have that long talk soon.

The field looks pretty good. The upper class says it's a pretty stiff school. Our stay here is for about nine weeks if we don't wash out. If I make first pilot, I go on. If I don't seem to be able to do it I will be made a co-pilot and sent to combat. Either one seems to be O.K. although I'll see action sooner as a co-pilot.

I don't know much else because everyone is so tight-lipped. I will write again soon.

Love to all.

Your devoted son,

Jake Jr.

This letter is postmarked 5 June 1943.

From Lockbourne, OH

Dear Mother,

Your letter with the pictures just arrived. I'm very well pleased with all the pictures. Tell Nick to make me six 5x7's and one 8x10 of the left pose. I'll write on the back of the proof that I mean. Send me three of the 5x7's. You take an 8x10 for yourself and give Dad one 5x7 for his office. Give Reeves and Grandmother each a 5x7. C.C. wants two 5x7's made for him too and sent home. Have one group picture made and give it to Dot (Jake Sr.'s secretary) if she hasn't gotten one from Bill. Send my bill to me and I'll mail a check to Nick. C.C. wants his bill too.

I had my first ride in the plane today. It's not going to be too hard to learn how to fly but it will take a lot of work. We fly 5 hours every day with 3 hours of ground school and 2 hours of calisthenics. I've been so busy that I haven't had time to write.

Give my love to all.

Your son,

Jake Jr.

[Dennis Donovan]

1. Kick and rec - I'm loving these!