A.W. (Peter) Machen to Rose Machen

January 15, 1970

In the rear

Dear Mom,

Yesterday I got your package.  Thank you very much.  It was great!

Brock and Muffy sent me a tape with the whole Ruxton crowd and some pictures.

About my tattoo.  I would appreciate it if nothing is said about it.  If Brock has been told it is all over Ruxton by now.  It is something that I wish I'd ever had and I'm kind of pissed off about it.  Every other Marine has one too, but to civilians, it's a mark on my body which I don't want exhibited.  Of course, the girls will discover it, but that can't be helped of course.

I've got nine stitches in my head and separated ribs.  I told you about the truck wreck in the first letter.  Well I'm okay and will be up at around in a few days.

26th Marines are pulling out.  If you have not read about it in the news, you will soon because it's official.  Whether or not I go depends on how much time in country I must have.  I have a 50-50 chance of being home this spring.  Don't count on it.

It's raining like mad.  I think I'll write Jack.

Where did you get those posters?  Last night I was the bartender, giving away whiskey sours, martinis, slow gin fizzes (candy)

I told you about Tokyo (March 18 - 25)

Well, I'll write again real soon.

Love, your son,

Pete