... Here in Vietnam the war goes on. Morale is very high in spite of the fact that most men think the war is being run incorrectly. One of the staggering facts is that most men here believe we will not win the war. And yet they stick their necks out everyday and carry on with their assigned tasks as if they were fighting for the continental security of the United States. Hard to believe but true. -Rod Chastant, US Marines, KIA
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Bernie,
Sorry it's taken me a few days to write. It's hard to find a time to write between the rain and the work.
To answer your questions: yes, it has cooled down since it started raining. Honestly, I rather it be raining that the heat we had before. It's still hot, though. The only thing that really sucks is sitting in a foxhole while it rains. We try to make cover by throwing a poncho over the top, but it's muddy to begin with, so it only keeps you from getting even more wet.
No, I haven't got a nickname... yet. I'm sure they'll come up with one though. Or maybe two or three. With them, one can only be sure to receive at least one. Beyond that... it's a big surprise.
I wish this could be longer so I could fill you in on everything, but I really should be getting ready for a patrol. Be good for Mom, and whenever Uncle Jake gets there, you heed what he tells you and treat him with respect. He's helping us out while I'm over here, so don't you dare do anything to make him regret it. Mom will give you the full speech, but I thought I'd give you the rundown. I'll be writing to Uncle Jake later.
Listen, I've gotta run. Sorry it wasn't as long as the last one.
Love,
John