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| point or concentration camp. It is much larger than
our former camp, as there are about fifteen balloon companies and the
same amount of aero squadrons and there are 204 men in each
squadron. We are living in barracks and have everything to make it
comfortable, hot and cold water showers and gyms. A large athletic
field is close by. We are eight miles from the nearest town and
that is Newport News. There are many jitneys running, but they
charge a dollar each way, so a man don't feel like going in town every
night. There are four of our balloon companies that are up to
standard in overseas equipment and are all ready for service. Our
passenger list was made up yesterday, so I rather believe we will soon
be on our way 'To Berlin or Bust.'
"As for myself, I have made some advancement since coming into the regulars. I gave up the idea of flying on this die and get a transfer to it on the other side. One has more chances over there for it than here. I am at present in the Motor Department as a chauffeur, first class. To get this one must pass the government test both in driving and mechanical. The examination is taken in written form, sent to Washington, D. C., corrected and mailed from there. I passed with a grade of 92½% or ½% more than needed. Rather close, but enough to get by. Below 92% one is made chauffeur. A first class gets a salary of $51 per with the 10% increase. Chauffeur gets $44 and 10% increase. A first class ranks as sergeant in authority, but has no title except first class, which does not sound very military, so none of use it. "I like the army life fine and am gaining in every way. Am heavier in flesh than ever before and feel better. There is reason for that, as we are nearly always in bed at 9:00 p.m. and up at 6:00 a.m. and eat regular. It was hard to get used to it, but since becoming used to going to the hay at nine, one can hardly stay awake after that. "Well, I will close for now, as I hear the bugle blowing 'Chow' and that is a formation no one misses. I hope I have written a pleasing letter. There is a great deal more I could tell you that would probably be more interesting, but I wrote what I thought you all would like. When I get back from France will make you all a nice talk some day. Give my regards to the faculty and friends in the old P. H. S. and would be glad to get a line form any of them. A letter is appreciated not by the length of it, but by the spirit of it, in the army. "Well, must close, so wish you all the best of luck and hope to see you soon. She's a grand old place, after all, 'Dear Old Perry.' Believe me, I stick up for Iowa down here, strong. |
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Most sincerely, |
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Fred K. Hagar, |
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Camp Morrison, Va., 24th Balloon Co., Barracks No. 24. "P. S. - Don't forget to send me a copy of the high school paper." |
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