A.W. (Peter) Machen to Arthur and Rose Machen

August 19, 1969

Vietnam 

Dear Mom and Dad,

I got here today the 19th.  I flew into Da Nang at about 10 a.m..  It seems as though I'll be here a while.  I have two weeks of booby trap indoctrination and other classes -- refresher courses.  It's hotter than hell!  I've been drinking a lot of water.  I have a headache and I'm going to hit the hay.  So I'm sorry if I sound like a bore.

It really doesn't seem as bad as I thought. I've already gotten all of my gear and I'm in “K: Comp area in Da Nang.  Things around here are pretty secure.  Not too much action except for the sniper fire. 

There really isn't much to say except I'm doing well and miss you all very much.  Have a good time. Catch some trout.

Love,

Pete