A.W. (Peter) Machen to Rose Machen

November 3, 1969   

Hill 190

Dear Mom,

Well I got your bourbon balls.  They were pretty good and went over as a great novelty to 1st plt.  Gee!  You sure can make up a good package!  That 6-12 pads are something I treasure and I've already started an Ellery Queen book.

Last night the gooks hit us with everything they had, so it seemed, we were on an “island” out in the middle of the rice paddies.  The VC are hiding in the mountains and are literally starving.  They try to get into the village is for supplies.  Well, we had a big surprise for em last night.  You'd be surprised what a man will do for a little food.

The RVN’s (Republic of Vietnam Marines) this morning found enough food to supply the enemy for a long time-canned fish, rice, anchovies, dried noodles and meat and I don’t know what else, salt, sugar, tobacco.

Our most vital spot is Namu Bridge.  The official word is that we are moving from 190 to the bridge the 17th.  That will be great!  The gooks have been trying to sabotage it for years and now 1st  Division needs reinforcements there.

In a few days we go on an operation in Elephant Valley.  There are a few companies of NVW which are trying to form into a battalion.  They are a potential threat to the security of the bridge (no big operation, just a sweep).

Well, some good news.  I made team gunner.  I’m turning in my rifle for a 45 cal. pistol. (can't carry a rifle + machine gun at the same time). Well I'm real happy about that!

Got a letter from Mrs. Hawks.  I'll write her if I ever get some time.

The monsoons have had no mercy and the rice paddies are chest deep in some places by the dikes.

My feet are OK now and I'm giving them as much care and attention as I can.

Ah yes, for Christmas, I want to make a list as simple as possible.  I'll need your help.

For Mr. Miller, a box of shotgun shells: high brass magnum #7 ½ shot. That would be about $5.00.  I'll pay for it of course.

As I write you I'll put a few more people on the list.  I'm getting Jack to help me on some of the Christmas shopping.

Well, things are going well.  I have bookoo (many) cigarettes and only have a pregnant nine-month to go.

Send me Angi’s last name.

Thanks for the Bourbon balls (Cabin Still) 86 proof candy! What will Mom think of next?

Love to all,

Pete

PS Hick-hick  xx