17 July ‘53

Hi Doll,

Back again with the usual tired feeling. Seems as though I’ve been that way for the past week, but guess it is because of our moving around. Two days ago we moved and now occupy a miserable position halfway between Christmas Hill and the latest Chinese break-thru. To our direct front the main line is about 5200 yards but to our direct left it is only 1700 yds or less than a mile. The distance doesn’t mean anything because we’re in an extremely narrow valley, and probably will never get hit. But the narrowness is what makes the whole thing miserable. The battery are practically in line with each other. But I suppose I’ll get used to it like all the others. Expect to leave in 60 days, anyhow, so I’m just biding my time and cooling my heels. Your latest letter, received gratefully, yesterday, sure puts it on me heavy. The P.S. says, “Please write soon, that’s an order.” I guess you’ll never make Armed Forces personnel. When an order is given it isn’t used with the word please. The Army, I don’t believe, ever heard of politeness. All orders are curt and short and will be obeyed without question. In other words when I say you will write you have no other choice but to write. You’ll notice I don’t use please, or kindly. It’s just a matter of do as I say. Yes, I did get your latest pictures and must add they were rather terrific. At present I don’t have any around but should I get some in the near future you shall certainly receive some. Having no sleep for 48 hours please excuse me while I take a nap.

Love, Frank