Balanced Mess Statement

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Saturday 31 March 1945, 9:40 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Hello Sweet, I just got back from the movie and here I am.  The picture was a Charlie Chan murder story, "The Jade Mask," with Sidney Toler.

          This morning was the usual busy one. It was 11:30 before I was through.  After lunch I began reading "Burma Surgeon" by Seagrave but I had some more appointments for the afternoon.

          I quit at 3:30 and began working on the wardroom mess statement.  My money balanced out so the worst is over for another month.

          After that I censored some mail, showered and dressed for dinner.  After eating we had an unusually brilliant sunset which I shan't try to describe.

          Then the medical officer and I counted over a million dollars for the paymaster in order to certify a sum of money shown on his monthly statement.  By then it was 7:30 so I went up on the fo'castle and enjoyed the cooling breeze until movie time.  Now here I am as I told you before.

          No mail again today.  Tomorrow I expect to hit the jackpot.  The service this last week was very irregular and I'm way behind.

          Nothing new or different to say today Honey so I'll repeat those three little words, "I love you."

          Goodnight Honey, until tomorrow with hugs and kisses

Love,

Gil

My Watch Is On The Fritz

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Friday 30 March 1945, 7:15 PM

Dearest Sweetheart,

          Hello Honey, here I am again.  We didn't have any movie last night so I played checkers and gossiped in the wardroom until 11:00 PM. Then I went to my room, censored a batch of mail and read for awhile.

          I awoke this morning kind of late (8:10) but didn't realize it because my watch seems to be on the fritz.  That makes two to go since I left.  It seems this hot, moist climate is hell on watches. I did some tinkering on it this morning and it has been running most of the day.  Maybe I've fixed it.

          I did some work this morning but really didn't strain myself.  By noon the strong wind had abated and the sun broke out in all its glory.  It's the first time in almost a week that we've even seen the sun.  After lunch I saw a few patients.  I censored some mail and went up on the poop deck for a little sun.  Then I returned to my room undressed, showered and read until time to dress for dinner.

          After dinner I enjoyed the cool breeze and the cloud formations, but a colorful sunset never materialized.  Now here I am.

          I got one precious letter today, so you guess who it was from.  It was postmarked the 18th.

          We had the Disney hit "The Three Caballeros" aboard.  I enjoyed parts of it a lot.  I'm sure Linda and probably even Norma would get a kick out of it.

          I'm really looking forward to some colored snaps of you.  I'm sure you'll look lovely--as you always have and always will where I'm concerned.

          I do hope your Arrowhead plans materialize, but it they don't maybe you'll have other plans to make for late summer that'll be real thrilling.  I don't know anything but I am just hoping.

          The movie tonight is Claudette Colbert in "Practically Yours" or "Particularly Yours." I don't know which.  It is rated as 4.0 so I shan't miss it.

          No more for now Sweet so I'll sign off.  Good night my Darling and dream about those happy days to come and soon I hope.

Yours as ever,

Gil

Toothaches Have No Respect for Weather

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Thursday 29 March 1945, 7:40 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          It just poured all night and when I awoke this morning things looked black and stormy.  It has been raining steadily all day.  After dinner the wind died down some.

          However toothaches and such have no respect for the weather.  I was kept quite busy all morning.

          At 11:30 I went up to my room and found some mail, no letters however.  There was a package containing a bunch of Sunday newspaper supplements and 2-1/2 pairs of earrings.  The package was so beat up that one of the earrings must have fallen out.  I received a second bill for my dental society dues.  Did you pay it?  You probably did because this letter was very long in coming.  Also there was a package of thirty-two paper bound volumes for the library.

          After lunch I saw three more patients.  Then returned to my room and finished "Wild Geese Calling."  I've selected several books from those we just received for my reading in the next few days.

          Nothing new or different today.  Just another day out on the Pacific too far away from the one I love.

          Well Sweetheart, I'm all through now so I'll say goodnight.  Until tomorrow with loving thoughts and passionate desires I am still

Yours alone,

Gil

Cross Your Fingers, Eyes, Legs and Pray!

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Wednesday, 28 March 1945, 7:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Hello Sweet, here I am again and in much better shape than last night.  I hope my letter wasn't too mixed up.

          Today was just an ordinary day.  I had my appointments for the morning and was through by 11:30.  This afternoon I saw two patients and then made a complete inventory of supplies on hand.  We usually carry enough for six months so I had plenty to inventory.

          At 4:00 PM I went to work on another shell necklace.  I think these will be much nicer.  I should finish it tomorrow and then I'll make a charm bracelet of assorted shells and send them on.

          The mail today was practically barren.  Just a Dental Society Bulletin and the B'nai B'rith War Service News.

          The movie tonight is not a very good one but I guess I'll go anyway.  It is "Main Street After Dark" with Edward Arnold plus five reels of shorts.

          Scuttlebutt is flying around again and maybe I'll have some good news for you one of these days.  Cross your fingers, eyes, legs and everything and pray!

          Gosh Honey there isn't a thing else to say but I don't believe I've told you in the last few days that "I love you and miss you." Well I do dear and just as much as you miss me and love me too, of course.

          Well, guess I'll sign off until tomorrow.  Goodnight Honey I'll see you in my dreams.

Love,

Gil

Drunken Brawl

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Tuesday 27 March 1945, 11:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Hello Sweet, here I am again.  Did I have a busy morning.  Besides a completely appointed morning I had six emergency patients to care for and it was twelve o'clock before I was through.

          After lunch a group of officers went ashore for a little party where some nurses were to be present, but I begged off.  At 3:00 PM (I had patients until then), the captain and two other officers came down and insisted I join them and go ashore for the party.  We took some steaks, sixty of them to be exact, a gallon of olives, a gallon of pickles, a pound of butter and away we went.  Well it was a drunken brawl but I was a good boy and here I am.  We just got back and we all had coffee before retiring.

          There was no mail today except a return on my correspondence course and a letter from Mary Regan.  Do you remember her?  She worked for the Board of Equalization in the Bay Cities Building and was sweet on Leon.  Besides that she was a patient of mine, referred to me by Abe Cohen.  Anyway she is now in the Coast Guard, stationed in Washington and is momentarily awaiting her orders to Pearl Harbor.  She just received my Xmas Card and hence her writing me.

          Outside of that there is nothing new to write about.  So considering the time and my present slightly (?) inebriated condition, I'll sign off.

          Good night Sweetheart, I'll be with you again tomorrow.  I love you so!

Forever yours,

Gil

The Battle of Iwo Jima ended on Mar 25, 1945. Was the purpose of the party to celebrate?

Dave must have clipped this article from the Marine Corps Gazette. The U.S.S. Ocelot was the flag for Squadron 10.

Star Was Dennis Day

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Monday, 26 March 1945, 10:30 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          This has been one busy day. Believe it or not this is the first free time I've had since I got up this morning.

          I worked all morning and at 12:30 I took a liberty part of eighty-eight men ashore for a little recreation.  It rained most of the afternoon and by the time we got back to the ship at 5:15 we were all thoroughly soaked.

          I peeled off my wet clothes and after a hot shower dressed for dinner.  Just as I finished eating the exec informed me that Claude Thornhill and his show had been obtained for us for tonight and to get ready.

          The first lieutenant got his carpenters together and a small platform stage was rigged. I got the electricians busy on lighting and got our PA system hooked up.  For a backdrop we hung a number of colorful signal flags.  We were all ready at 7:45 and that was really making time.

          I met the entertainers on the quarterdeck and took them below.  As I wrote before Jackie Cooper, Bobby Riggs (Mary Lou imitator of the radio) and several others are in the show.  Claude Thornhill was an arranger for Castellanez (?spelling) as well as a band leader in his own right.  His musicians are taken from many well known bands such as Goodman, Weeks, and others.  The star attraction was Dennis Day and he really is good.  He is an ensign. After the show he came up to the wardroom and we sat around and talked until his boat came for him.  By the way, after the show we served ice cream to all hands.  Now here I am.

          I hit the jackpot today.  This morning, I got eight letters from you and one from your mother. When I came down to my office to write to you a few minutes ago I found two V-mails that came this afternoon, one from Libby and the other from Edward Rubin of the B'nai B'rith.

          Linda is getting to be quite the young lady.  Movies on Saturday, dancing school and soon the piano.  Well I'm hoping to be there when she starts in the fall.

          You mention Sophie and Fay several times.  Are they the two service wives you recently met?  Anyway I'm glad you've found some new congenial acquaintances.

          Such dreams!  I have only one girl friend and you know who she is.  No matter where I go when I get back my three girls are all going there with me.

          What about my girls' Mommy?  Well gee whiz can't you wait and be surprised?  If you can't you'll have to anyway.

          So Jerry and Marty are still feudin'.  Well it's a small world with many "small" people.

          "The Angels Sing" and "A Song to Remember" are both very enjoyable and I'm glad you got to see them.

          I didn't know Dr. Lewis was back.  Guess one of your letters telling me more about it will bounce in one of these days.

          I can't tell you what kind of shots we got but it really doesn't matter now, does it?

          I really didn't enjoy the American Weeklies much.  Really, I have plenty of reading matter so please don't send any more unless there are some novelty books or magazines you think I'd enjoy.

          The Coast Guard pharmacist you mentioned--does he know the Ocelot or is he just speaking generally?  Don't let it get you down dear.  He could be wrong.

          Well this has been a long winded letter.  I hope I didn't tire you out.  I'll sign off now as it's 11:20 and I should turn in.

          Good night Sweetheart and the next time dream about us being together.

Loving you always,

Gil

Boxing

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Sunday 25 March 1945, 6:45 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Hello Darling, here I am again.  Today for a change I put in an honest day's work. I saw eight patients this morning and two more this afternoon.  Besides that I spent some time digging out additional information for my annual and quarterly reports. Now the Dental Corps has more control over its administration. Seeing as I am the senior dental officer aboard I have more reports to make out (ahem!).  It's a good thing there aren't any more dental officers or I'd probably be junior.

          I was beginning to run low on shorts so I bought a half dozen more today (35 cents each).  It has been raining or threatening to rain all day so I spent my leisure time in my room reading and censoring mail.

          There was no mail today for a change.  I do wish the service would settle down so that I'd get one or two letters every day instead of all at one time.  Well, I shouldn't complain, I still get more than most aboard this ship.

          It's hard to realize that next week is Passover.  All days are alike and as a matter of fact I'd never know it was Sunday except the chaplain is around.  Talking about chaplains, one has been assigned to our ship and I'm looking for him to arrive most any time now.  Won't I be glad.  Then the job of Welfare Officer and Librarian will be taken away from me and given to someone who has the time and training to do a real job of it and at the same time give me more opportunity to do what I'm here to do.

          We finally got a boxing ring built on one of the hatches.  While we are waiting for the chaplain, I'll try and promote some bouts before movies.

          By the way, in one of the letters yesterday you asked if I wanted some fruits and nuts.  I've still got some left and have been laying off them because I've gained a couple pounds lately.  There isn't much chance for exercise but I still eat two meals a day and even that seems too much.  So the answer is "no thank you."

          The movie tonight is "Fighting Lady" a picture about the carrier, "Yorktown."  It is very much like the movie we saw of the flying fortress "The----Belle." I can't remember the rest of the name.  We saw it in Diego together.  Also it is rated as excellent.

          I'm going to sign off now.  Good night, my love, my Sweet.  Till tomorrow with love and kisses.

Yours alone,

Gil

Daddy Is Proud of You

25 March 1945

Dear Linda and Norma,

          Hello my sweeties, how are you today?  It has been a few days since I last wrote to you but I'm thinking about you all the time.

          I'm really proud of both of you for the way you have been behaving and the way you are doing at school.

          I still don't know how much longer I'll be away but I'm hoping that I'll be home before too long.

          Just keep up the good work and daddy will be very proud of both of you.

          Love and kisses to you both.

Love,

Daddy

Loafing

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Saturday 24 March 1945, 7:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Another day of loafing, but the last.  The paint wasn't quite dry this morning, so I didn't open shop today.  However tomorrow I have a pretty heavy day lined up.

          What did I do all day?  First I censored some mail.  Then I did examine a couple of officers who were up for promotion.  By the time the inspection party came through sickbay it was past 11:00 AM so I went up to my room and read until chow.

          After lunch I killed more time but don't ask me what I did because I'm darned if I can remember.  It has been cloudy and raining all day else I would have gone ashore.  I just didn't feel like getting all wet.

          I got five letters from my darling today, two in the AM and three in the PM.

The one marked February 20th explained about Hansen's phone call to you.  No, he hasn't written yet.  The others were marked the 13th, 14th and 15th of March and that isn't bad service at all.  Maybe he did call Miss Rike a "young lady" but I'm not kidding when I say she'll never see forty-five again.  Maybe you'll meet her some day and you'll judge as to whom is "kidding" you.

          That article about the Alaskan Highway didn't surprise me as I read about it in the ship's news Bulletin some time ago.  All work on the road has ceased.  It seems they ran into insurmountable difficulties.  Oh well, there are still ships sailing and that'll give us more time to ourselves (catch on?)

          The things I find most interesting in your letters are the things that you and the kids are doing.  I really don't care much about what is happening to others, hence no remarks in the past (and in the future too). Of course I read your letters through and reread them when I'm writing you.  I answer all your ideas that I think are necessary.

          I'm glad you got rid of those moles.  Why are you so worried about being beautiful?  You always did suit me fine and I'll take you just as you are.

          Yes the Army is advancing officers faster than the Navy now.  I still prefer the Navy.  Still think back to how long Iz Weiss was a First Lieutenant.  At least in the Navy after sixteen months (May 1) I'll get my advancement  and that is only about a month from now.

          Your list of real friends is small but I do believe that no one has many more.  The rest are "fair weather" friends who don't really give a tinker's damn.

          Of course we'll be together when I get stateside duty, no matter where.  That is a promise.

          We saw "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" years ago.  "Virginia" is also an oldie which we saw together.

          It looks like Joe will ship out soon and when he does I do hope Anne comes back to Santa Monica.  I know how much you must miss her.

          The Mrs. Allen of the P.T.A. you mention sounds like the wife of Mark Allen, the attorney in the Tower building.  Next time you see her ask her if she is and if so say hello for me.  I know her fairly well.

          Sorry that you and the kids all have colds.  Hope you are all well when you read this.

          Painting the house sounds like a good idea if you can get help to do it reasonably.

          Well sweet that washes me up for tonight.  The movie is "Strange Affair" with (?)--I never heard of them anyway and it's time to go.

          Goodnight Sweet, I'll see you in my dreams.

Love,

Gil

Newspaper article published on March 24, 1945. Tells of the March 13 Japanese raid in Ulithi that damaged the aircraft carrier Randolph. A kamakaze, not mentioned in the article, buzzed the U.S.S.Ocelot.

My Office Being Painted

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Friday 23 March 1945, 7:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Hello honey, here I am again.  Today was another day of loafing because of the painting of my office.  I did get considerable done in the preparation of those reports I mentioned yesterday.  I had to completely inventory equipment and supplies and indicate their value and condition.  I also have to estimate supplies needed for the coming year and make recommendations to improve dental treatment in the area.

          I had planned on going ashore after lunch, but it was overcast and raining on and off.  So I decided to stay aboard.  Censored some mail and began another book "Wild Geese Calling."  We saw the movie but so far, the book so far is totally different (as far as I can remember).  At 5:15 I showered and dressed for dinner. After eating we stood around and just talked until a few minutes ago.

          The movie tonight is Donald Duck in "The Three Caballeros" and is supposed to be excellent.  Last night's movie was enjoyable too but we had a real cloudburst and even with my raincoat on I was soaked to the skin.

          No mail again today, but that is the way it goes.  Good service for awhile and then for no apparent reason the delivery slows to a snail's pace.  Maybe tomorrow will be different.

          There is nothing new to talk about.  Do you remember when every day we always had plenty to talk about and plan?  Well maybe sooner than we think we'll be able to do it again (I hope).

          I haven't told you I love you lately so here goes, "I love you" darling and if possible more and more every day.

          Goodnight, I'll see you in my dreams.

Yours alone,

Gil

Purchased Several Hundred Gallons of Ice Cream

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Thursday 22 March 1945, 7:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,   

          Just a lot of loafing today.  I took care of a couple emergencies this morning and then secured so that my office could be painted.  I spent the rest of the morning on some professional reading.

          After lunch I went over to another ship to visit with the dental officer there. I also picked up some information about reports that are supposed to be sent to the Bureau but of which no one seemed to know much about.  I'll have several busy days getting them out.

          I got back at 3:30, had a coke and got comfortable in my room.  Censored some mail and then studied the reports that I need to make.  Soon it was 5:15 and time to shower and change for dinner.

          We had steak tonight.  Of course, soup and fruit salad to begin with,and for dessert two big scoops of ice cream.  We were able to purchase several hundred gallons of ice cream and keep it in our freeze box.  Now we can have ice cream everyday as long as the supply lasts.

          After dinner we enjoyed the usual cool ocean breeze and brilliant colored sunset.  Now here I am.

          No mail today but the six letters from you yesterday should sustain me for another day anyway.

          The movie tonight is "Music for Millions" and star Margaret O'Brien, Iturbi, Durante, Marsha Hunt and others.  It is rated as excellent so I'll go (as usual).

          Sweet, there is nothing new to talk about.  Do you remember when (years ago) I'd come home and tell you that you had another "surprise" coming because I landed another large case?  Soon they were coming so frequently we quit.  Well after the war we we'll reinstitute that routine. OK?

          Good night Honey, until tomorrow.

Loving you always,

Gil

Male Entertainers

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, FPO San Francisco

Wednesday 21 March 1945, 7:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Had my usual busy morning.  Worked until 11:30 and then found I was through for the day.

          After lunch I decided to join a few others and went ashore.  While there we enjoyed a troupe of  travelling Navy entertainers.  The band was led by Claude Thornhill and there were several stage, screen and radio personalities in the show (all male).  Jackie Cooper who played the drums, and the radio personality "Betty Lou" were the headliners.  We expect to have the whole show on the ship in a few days.

          We got back in time for a  last chow.  After eating we enjoyed a pretty sunset.  Now, here I am.

          I got four letters this morning and four this afternoon. Except for my mother and Libby they were all from you.

          I'm glad that the affair at the Deauville Club was such a big success.  Of course I really expected it with you in charge.

          I'm glad you finally got to see "To Have and Have Not."  Its funny your thinking it was slow.  I thought it was OK, but then we didn't see it together.

          I'm sorry to hear that Dick is unhappy.  Making the best of a situation is important. There is plenty I could "bitch"(gripe) about.  Yet I find it is just as well to take things as they come.

          I'm surprised about Linda and her enlarged tonsil.  Don't do anything about it until I get back unless absolutely necessary.  I do hope she gets over her present indisposition soon. Dr. Kinney is OK.  See him is necessary.  His nurse, Mrs. Middledorf, is an ex patient of mine and should help out.

          I wondered about Leon's new job but a later letter cleared the matter up for me.

          I don't know why all the worry about a salami.  Several have been received and all in good shape.  Just wrap it well and let me do the worrying.

          You are still too sensitive and your sisters still don't understand.  Just wait until Dave ships out and I get back.  Bet you'll just drool over Deb and her problems.  Still that is your way and I wouldn't have you any different.

          Yes dear. You are right.  I don't give a damn about all the stuff that is happening in Santa Monica.  It all seems so unimportant and far away.  Hence, no remarks!

          I do reread you letters but who cares if Ruby presided well or Marty pulled a fast one on B.J.

          If you feel so strongly about a lot look around and let me know what you find. (For a home, not an office, of course).

          Libby's cheapness has reached a new high.  Now she writes V-mail letters instead of airmail. I'll take my time answering too.

          It is late and time for the movie so I'll dash and finish later.  Goodbye for now Sweet!

10:00 PM

          Hello darling, here I am back again.  The picture tonight was "Murder My Sweet" with Dick Powell, Anne Shirley, and Claire Trevor.  It was so mixed up the whole story is hazy and I can't blame it all on the beer I had today either.

          I just reread my letter so far and hope you can make it out.  My, what scribbling!

          From the sound of things Leon's outfit must be tied up with the Marines. Otherwise why the rugged training? Anyway he can have it.  Give me any ship, but preferably the U.S.S. America, for duty.

          Out here there is nothing new to write about. The war news sounds good and I'm still optimistic for an early peace.

          No more for now Sweet.  I sign off with love, hugs, and kisses for you and our girls.

Your devoted,

Gil

Squall

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Tuesday 20 March 1945, 6:50 PM

Dearest Sweetheart,

          Here I be again.  Today was just a nice easy day for a change.  I saw patients all morning but there was no hurry.  I secured (quit) at 11:15 and went up to my room and read until lunch.  After chow I got ready to take the liberty party ashore.  I mustered the men and got the beer. We all got into the motor launch and away we went.  We got ashore at 1:45.  I doled out the beer, amounting to six or seven cans per man.  After they were all settled I walked over to the club.  I had a beer and then walked along the shore looking for shells.  I didn't find many today but I did find several "cats-eyes," stones suitable for mounting on rings.

          I got the men together and back into our boat at 4:15 and we headed back to our ship.  On the way we got caught in a squall and by the time we got back we were all drenched to the skin.

          I showed and changed for dinner and after eating I went down to my office and here I am.

          Still no mail.  If it wasn't that no one else was receiving mail I'd be worried but now I know it's just a tie up in service so I shan't worry.  I do hope my letters to you are getting through OK without any slow-up.

          Tonight's movie is a Dr. Kildare picture, "Between Two Women."  It's supposed to be good so I guess I'll go rain or not.

          I sure like my new pen.  How is yours?  Shall I get you one? Let me know.

          That is all for now darling.  Good night Sweets and pleasant dreams.

Love,

Gil

Bought A New Eversharp Pen

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Monday 19 March 1945, 10:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Hello Sweetheart, here I am again.  This has been one busy day for me and it was almost 4:00 PM before I finally walked out of my office.  I didn't see more than twelve patients but believe me there was plenty of work that needed doing.  The last time I did as much in one day was when I was a civilian.

          When I left my office it was raining in buckets, as a matter of fact it had been raining most of the afternoon.  I was just too busy to notice.  I went up to my room and censored a stack of mail and then read for awhile.  First thing I knew it was 5:15 and time to shower and dress for dinner.

          After chow I was still a little tired so I relaxed with a book until movie time.  Last night's picture was "Address Unknown" with Paul Lucas---one of those propaganda pictures and not very good.  Tonight's picture was "Thousands Cheer" with a whole host of stars.  The outstanding feature was Jose Iturbi playing the piano.  When he broke into boogie woogie even the sailors applauded; it was that good.

          There was no mail again today.  They must be filling up a whole sack for me somewhere.  Maybe it'll all come tomorrow.  I bought a new pen today.  The fouled up point on my other pen was beginning to get me down.  This pen is one of the new Eversharps with a point similar to the Parker "51".  It retails for $12.50 and I bought it for $6.50 at our ship's store.

          Well darling, that is thirty for tonight.  Love and kisses to all three of my dears.  I'll see you in my dreams.

Devotedly,

Gil

Doctor From Another Ship Came Over

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Monday, 5 March 1945, 9:50 PM

My Darling,

          How is my Sweet tonight?  How's about a kiss?  Gee thanks.  I'll take a rain check on that one too.

          Had a full morning booked with patients from another ship, but they didn't show so I had the morning to myself.  Just chased around doing little things but nothing to talk about.

          After lunch I saw a couple of patients.  Then a Dr. Travis from another ship came over. We got a party together and went ashore for a few drinks.  We got back to the ship about 5:00 PM feeling pretty good.

          I showered and changed for dinner.  I invited the doctor to be my guest but the guy was pretty high and couldn't eat.  After chow I took him down to sick bay and got him to take a cold shower and drink some coffee.  I tried to get him to stay till morning but he insisted on returning to his ship.  So I got a boat and took him back. Returned just in time for movies.

          The picture was a repeat "The Very Thought of You" with Dennis Morgan, but I enjoyed it anyway.

          No mail again today.  Guess another stack will accumulate before I receive more.  Then I'll have a gala day reading letters from my Sweetheart

          Nothing new or different Honey.  I have a big stack of mail to censor as soon as I'm finished here.  And then I'm going to bed and dream about us.

          Good night my darling, gosh but I feel loving tonight and not a damn thing I can do about it.

Yours always,

Gil

Rained Like "H"

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Sunday 18 March 1945, 7:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Here I am again, a little high but still here.  Today was just an ordinary day.  Began work at 8:30 AM (today being Sunday) and except for a few interruptions, secured at 11:45 AM.

          Ate lunch and after that decided to go ashore where--so I did.  It was a nice day and we drank beer and drank beer until--I had to go but it rained like "H" so I had to wait or go out and get wet.  I don't know what I was afraid of, I was all wet anyhow.  But I did wait, not more than five minutes when the rain stopped and I started to (?).

          We got back at 5:00 PM and after showering and changing, I ate a hearty meal and now here I am.

          The movie tonight is an oldie and not very good.  Paul Lucas in it. I don't know the title but I'll tell you more about it tomorrow.

          Well Sweet, I hope you won't be disgusted with me tonight but there isn't another thing I can say.  I didn't receive any mail today again, so tomorrow I'll hit the jackpot, at least I hope so.

          Goodnight darling, I love you and wish we were together.  Love and Kisses to you and my two itsy bitsies.

Your loving husband,

Gil

Plumbing Job Complete

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Saturday 17 March 1945, 6:45 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Although I worked all morning it wasn't until afternoon before the plumbing job in my office was complete.  However except for the deck being all cluttered up and not having any water in my unit, I got along OK.

          After lunch I finished a mystery story I was reading and censored some mail.  Just about the time I finished Dr. Travis (I've mentioned him before) stopped by.  He was aboard for business. We made a date for a few beers at the island tomorrow.  We were comparing notes and discovered that we both reported for active duty on the same date and shipped out a week apart.  He is married, has three kiddies and is a swell guy.

          After he left I went down, saw a patient for a minute and then visited the barber.  After that I showered and dressed for dinner.  I bet if you look over my letter, my daily routine doesn't vary much and I probably say much the same thing every day.

          Tonight's movie is "Nice Girl" with Deanna Durbin and I think it's rated as good.  It doesn't really matter; I never miss any of them anyway.

          No mail today Honey so there is very little more for me to talk about.  Do you remember the days when all we needed to do was to dial the phone if we had something to talk about and weren't together?  I can't wait much longer to see that a reality again.  I can't, but I guess I'll have to for a while yet.

          So Darling, once more I'm left with nothing to say.  So I'll repeat myself and say I love you Sweet and miss all my three girls tremendously.

          Goodnight Darling until tomorrow

Yours alone,

Gil

Office A Mess

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Friday 16 March 1945, 7:05 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Didn't do any dentistry all day long.  My office is still in a mess--the sink is still not completely installed. In the morning, I hope they can finish up quickly as I have a busy day planned.

          I worked on lesson six of my course and got it all ready for typing this morning.  This afternoon, for lack of anything else to do and because I felt like it, I went over to the island for a few beers.

          After drinking a couple, another fellow and I went out shell hunting.  The tide was way out and I found a mess of shells of a new variety, all with little live crabs in them.  There were also many small pools of water left behind by the tide and we had fun watching the small tropical fish, one to two inches long skimming through the water.  Wish there were some way of sending them home.  There were some beauties there.

          We got back at 5:15 and I had just enough time to shower and change before dinner.  Now here I am.

          The movie tonight is "Big Street" another oldie with Henry Fonda and Lucille Ball.  Last night's "Intermezzo" was just fair.

          The mail this morning brought a bulletin from the Medical Department and a short note from Libby.  When I got back to my office tonight I found a letter from you.  I'm glad you enjoyed "Fun Time."  Sounds like the kind of show I'd enjoy.

          Do as you like about bonds.  I won't urge you either way.  I've had my say but I won't resist because it isn't important enough.

          I hope Dave is right about when I'll be coming home.  However his guess is only as good as mine.  The next few months will tell.

          Well Darling, so endeth another letter.  No real good news, but no bad news either.  Of course you know I love you but I'll say it again, "I love you."  Goodnight Darling, I'll see you in my dreams.

Yours always,

Gil

Ban Off on Discussing Hawaii

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Thursday 15 March 1945, 6:45 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Hello darling here I am once more.  Began today as usual with work but I knocked off about 10:30 because I'm having a new style surgical basin (sink) installed in my office.  I'm there now.  From the progress they've made, there won't be much dentistry done on the Ocelot tomorrow either.

          I got another shot in the arm today and it feels quite sore at present.  By tomorrow night I hope to be rid of all its effects.

          So, I had time to read my five letters before lunch today.  There was one from Linda, one from Ethyl and three from my favorite wife.  This afternoon I just loafed and took it easy.  Read a little, talked a little but accomplished nothing.

          Now to your letters.  I don't want our ship to go back for repairs.  Ships that need such extensive repairs as to go back to the states must have seen some heavy action and many of the crew probably were casualties.  I'll get back in due time and safe and sound.  Who wants to be a hero? Not me!  

          You ask what else can you send me?  Well nothing at present.  At dinner tonight we were talking about pickles and kosher dills were brought up.  It was suggested that "dills" packed in waxed paper containers with additional wax sealing the cover would come on safe and sound.  They tell me even whiskey has been sent out that way.  How about getting a couple of quart cylinder containers and sending some on (no, not whisky, pickles).

          When I get my promotion I'll arrange to have your allotment increased and have the checks sent to the Santa Monica Bank.  Then you can close out the San Diego account and have it all in one bank.  You should have plenty of reserve so that there won't be any charge for writing checks even minus an additional $1,000.  You can buy those bonds in $500 ones if you like.  I still say buy some more.

          I wrote Dr. Ivie the other day.  As a matter of fact I'm all caught up now and owe no one any letters.

          About the Sadie A. incident. All I can say is that women are cats and very petty ones indeed.  Further no one will stick her neck out if she can avoid it.  I'd forget the incident and tell the whole kit and caboodle to do their own dirty work from now on.

          I know my daily letters mean much to you because I know how much they mean to me.  We have been lucky too that there hasn't been much of a break in frequency of mail so far.  However darling please realize that his can't go on forever and sooner or later there may be a break of days or maybe weeks without mail.  Please don't worry though because I'll always be safe and then one day you'll get a great big stack all at once.

          By the first of April I'll have over $450 due me on the books.  I'm going to send you $100 then and I want you to buy Linda a bond and use the $25 balance to get her something more tangible.

          Well darling I'm all worked up for tonight.  The move is an oldie "Intermezzo" with Leslie Howard.  Goodnight my Sweet I'll see you in my dreams,

Love,

Gil

P.S. The ban is off on discussing Hawaii.  Ask any questions you like now and if I can remember the facts I'll answer them fully.

Gil

Daddy Misses You

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

15 March 1945

Dearest Linda,

          I received your very sweet letter today and I was surprised at how well you draw.  My goodness, your chicken and rabbit looked so real I thought they would jump off the paper and right onto my desk.

          Ethyl Leavy wrote me and told me how well you and Norma are dancing now and what good, sweet little girls you are.  Keep up the good work.  You are both making me very happy and proud of you.

          Honey, daddy misses you, Norma and Mama, too and I'll try to come home as soon as possible.

          In the meantime keep up the good work at school and at home.

Love,

Daddy

Kamakaze Buzzed the Ocelot and Bombed the Carrier Rudolph

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

U.S.S. Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco

Tuesday 13 March 1945, 7:30 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          How are you tonight darling?  Swell.  So am I.  I miss you and the girls just as you miss me.

          Today was just another day.  Worked all morning and part of the afternoon and secured (quit) at 2:45.  There were some doctors from other ships aboard who coaxed me to go ashore with them, but it would have been past 3:30 before we got there and that is too late to get started.  I like to be back aboard by 5:30 so I said, "no."

          Instead I went up on the poop deck for thirty-five minutes of sunshine.  Then I retired to my room.  I censored a stack of mail and then read until 5:15 when I showered and changed for dinner.

          After chow we were standing on deck enjoying the breeze and sunset when a rain squall came along and drove us to cover.  However it only lasted a few minutes and we all came back to finish our regular evening routine.  Now here I am.

          I got three letters today, four from you and one from your mother.  Talking about letters I wrote eight besides yours in the past two days.  Soon I'll be all caught up.

          You never did send Sol's address to me.  There is a good chance of my seeing him if I know what ship he is on.  If you haven't done so be sure to include it in your next letter.

          I'm surprised at the Lindenbaums.  I'd never expected them to call on you after so long.  On rereading you letter I see you met him at dancing school.  Well he always was friendly or should I say "smooth."  That probably is more the word for him.

          Dick may never be sent to Europe but may come out this way.  By the time his training is over, Germany should be licked and all army will be coming out to the Pacific theater.  Don't you worry none about him, army life and discipline will do him good.

          When I get back I'm spending my time with my special girl.  The Corsos don't have a chance and even the family will wait until we come up for air so to speak.

          So Ruby is still complaining?  Well if Marty didn't expend so much energy in other places he might be able to do her some good.

          Traveling long distances for vacations certainly doesn't sound very patriotic.  I'm afraid if some of our 100% Americans and patriots could hear some of the opinions and ideas of both officers and men about their actions at home, their ears would burn plenty.  Maybe they'd spend a few wakeful nights thinking.  Oh well nuff said on that subject.

          There is another appendectomy coming up which I'm going to be on so I'll have to hurry because they're about ready to begin.  Good night my Sweet, until tomorrow.

Yours always,

Gil