WW2 Chapter 93 - Franklin's Last Letter (January 27, 1946)

Letter of January 27

 1/27/46

Dear Mother & Dad,

     Have recently -- off and on -- been trying to make a large outboard engine operate as it's supposed to. Though it had only fallen into the ocean, it seems to be requiring considerable work.

     Some weeks ago, 3449 was deactivated and we were transferred to 3742. Actually, we've been assigned to that organization for the past couple months. At first -- due to lack of space -- we were set up in two large huts down and across the road from the company area. It was situated on the shore -- at high tide, my cot was only "inches" from the water.

     3742 was formerly a trailer outfit -- but we brought 30 of our 6x6's with us -- mine included. Then the mechanics built their own motor pool -- so you see, we're quite independent. As for our motor pool -- though we have no tire shop or parts department -- it's superior to 3742 in every way: -- no mud, better tools and equipment, elevated grease rack, and better mechanics.

     Don't write any more -- expect to be shipping to the states before long.

     On several occasions, I've driven the trailers. They're certainly tremendous, and I like them -- but not on this island.

     Just had a most unusual type of cold. It lasted 1 1/2 days -- and consisted only of constant sneezing and "blowing".

     Since moving, we've been working on the docks -- two shifts -- each nine hours.

Love,

Franklin

WW2 Chapter 94 - Return Home (and a Box of Candy)



Cover of candy box, hanging in cottage on Lake Quassapaug

On February 26, after two years and seven months of service, Franklin arrived back in San Francisco. Because it was his mother's birthday, he bought a wooden box of candy before flying home to Connecticut. On the back of the cover, she would write, "This picture is the cover of a box of candy that Franklin Jr. gave me for my birthday the day after he returned from overseas on Feb. 26, 1946."



Japanese machete

Along with the box of candy, he apparently also brought home a Japanese machete.

WW2 Chapter 95 - Franklin's Seventh Division Patches




Discharge Form (click to enlarge)

After returning home to Connecticut, Franklin reportedly burned his army uniform and rarely talked about any of his experiences again. Although he was awarded a Victory Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, an Asiatic Pacific Theater Campaign Ribbon, and a Philippine Liberation Ribbon with two Bronze Service Stars, he apparently disposed of those items as well.



Dress Uniform Patches and Infantrymen Pin

However, perhaps in honor of the men that he fought with, he kept his 7th Division patches and his Combat Infantrymen Pin.

WW2 Chapter 96 - The End

With Dave at Lake Elise