#49

Jan 25. 1945

Dear Mother:

Everyone here seems to be complaining about not getting mail from home. I think I have lost 55 and 56 tho they may turn up some time. Of course that is no excuse for me being so behind but I am doing almost nothing. I have forgotten what breakfast is like and never get over to the mess before noon. Lately we have been playing a lot of bridge in the evening so I don’t get to bed much before one,

I have only a little night flying left to do here but we are not having much luck with it. One day it took an hour to sweep off the snow. Rather a precarious business over the water. I now think there is a good chance for leave in February. You must rather wonder what I am doing all the time—I do too.

The Russian advance is marvellous, isn’t it. If they travel as far in the next five days as in the last they will be in Berlin. I don’t see how Germany can last much longer.

Had two letters recently from old friends of mine who came over last fall. The annoying thing is one is in London and the other in B’mouth and I would have seen them on leave. Also heard from Dick telling how his faithful jeep kept them one jump ahead of jerry.

My old skipper is here now doing instructional duties. He goes home soon and looks forward to his discharge but wonders what to do then. I should think the thought of an 8 hour day was rather appalling to most aircrew. A liaison officer said RCAF would have to volunteer for far eastern duties. He said that would apply to all but there is no mention of it here when chaps are posted. I would want to go in any case. It ought to be very interesting.

With love from
Tony.

[Editor’s note: Transcription provided by collection donor.]