I Run The Dental Department

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

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

Friday 20 April 1945, 7:15 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Hello Honey, here I am again.  I had another busy morning but everything was 4.0 when the mail orderly brought me eight letters, all from you, except one which was from your mother.

          Today being "field day" I decided to go ashore for the afternoon.  Just as I was getting ready to leave I got an emergency call to my office.  However I extracted the tooth and made the boat in time.  I spent a pleasant afternoon on the island and got back at 5:15, showered and dressed for dinner. Watched the sunset and here I am.

          Now to your letters.  They were marked March 29, 31 and April 9.  No comment on the late letters except that now I know about Linda's eyes and I'm tickled that there is nothing really wrong.

          Yes dear I can drink as much beer as Gilman or anybody.  It's just a matter of practice.  However, I'm leaving hard liquor alone because in this climate it hits me like a "ton of bricks."

          I don't think we'll have a second dentist aboard.  As a matter of fact I don't want one.  Chances are he would be senior to me and I'd do most of the work.  As it is now, I run my department as I please and don't really have any boss.  That's the way I like it so I'll leave it well enough alone.

          "As Thousands Cheer" was an oldie which we evidently missed.  The "live" entertainers were all right but nothing exciting.

          Now I know what happened to the tire, too.  However, don't worry about it.  It's just one of those things.  You really ought to have the clutch fixed pronto.  If it does give out it'll just be an additional expense.

          I re-lived all your recollections on the road to Arrowhead.  Someday, sooner than you think we will re-explore that country together (I hope).

          This is no advice I can get for you so many miles away.  By all means, if you feel you need to, see Dr. Lewis and find out what he has to say.

          Now quit holding out.  Send those snaps of yourself along with the kids.  I had some more taken on the island the other day though they aren't too hot, I'll send them as soon as I can.

          I'm glad you enjoyed "Roughly Speaking."  I got a big band out of it too.

          We've been seeing most of the movies that you have.  The only one we haven't had yet is "National Velvet" and we'll probably get that soon.  Until we get a new shipment I guess we'll have to put up with old ones.  Tonight we have "Random Harvest." with Ronald Coleman and Greer Garson.  Guess I'll go anyway.

          Today I heard of two more dental officers out here who got their orders at fifteen months.  If we don't get back sooner when I've had twelve months I intend to write requesting Long Beach for my next tour of duty.

          Nothing more new or different so I'll sign off.  Goodnight my Sweet and pleasant dreams.

Loving you Always,

Gil

My Pen Is Writing Better

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

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

Tuesday 13 February 1945. 6:45 PM

My Darling,

          I am a little early. It is raining so there is no sunset to witness tonight.  Note my pen is writing a little better.  I worked the point down a little finer; it'll do me until I get home.

          This has been my busiest day aboard.  I worked steadily all morning and afternoon until about 4:00 PM.  By then I was pretty tired so I undressed and relaxed with an Ellery Queen story.

          Don't worry about me working too hard.  I'm really enjoying keeping busy as it helps the time to pass more quickly.  This month seems to be flying by and I think it is because I'm working most of the time.

          Got five letters this morning.  Three from you, a valentine from Linda and a nice letter from Ethyl.  She sure is swell.  I wish all our friends were like her, and then I wouldn't worry about you being so lonesome with me away.

          I see you're still teaching.  Swell as long as you say it isn't too much for you.  Bet you are making more money than I am, considering the time we both put in.

          The concert sounds quite good and I'm glad you enjoyed it so much.

          No, I didn't know I was buying you a new mink coat but I'll save my pennies and by Xmas the coat will materialize.

          I'll weigh myself right now and report back.  Don't go away.  It's 170 on the nose, clothes, dinner and all.  Took some snaps the last time I went ashore.  When I get them I'll send them on.

          Wait until you get into "Forever Amber" more.  I found it more interesting every page I read and you will too.

          We could use some of the cold weather you are having.  I do hope Linda's indisposition was short lived and she is OK now.  Guess "Stinky" is over hers alright.

          Be sure that Sol has my address.  If he is shipping out our paths may cross.  Send me his address as well and I'll keep my eyes open.

          There aren't any seaman third class ratings.  A third class rating is a petty officer rating.  Examples: pharmacist mate, storekeeper, yeoman etc.  They all rate from third, second, first to chief.  Yes, my promotion should be soon now.  Another two or three months.  It takes fifteen to sixteen months to make lieutenant.  Leon and Jim can be Lieutenant Commanders for a much longer period.  Two years is nothing at the present time.

          I don't know why Libby's letter should upset you.  She doesn't have any more money than we have or had for the past five years.  I can't see anything to get excited about in her letter, and Honey it isn't like you to be so jealous and selfish.  I'll just blame it on the times and say no more.

          Got a valentine from Gilman but haven't heard from the repair base for a long time.  Guess I've been remiss in writing.

          Honey, I'm seeing my share of movies. Just to be with you I'll go anyplace you want when I get home.

          I'm glad you're going ahead with plans for Arrowhead this summer. It'll do the kids and you (too) a lot of good.  Maybe I'll even surprise you and join you up there.  I'm still hoping.  Plan to go in the late summer when the chances will be better.

          That was a pleasant day in Santa Barbara.  We'll spend our next honeymoon any place you say.  Even home will suit me.

          Well Sweet, I'm fresh out of words and stuff so I'll close with loving thoughts and dreams of days to come.

Yours only,

Gil

All Patients Are the Same When They Are On the Mend

Lt. (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

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

Thursday 14 December 1944, 8:30 PM

Dearest Eleanor,

          Just came down from the early movie.  I don't know when I've enjoyed anything so much.  It was "Casanova Brown" with Gary Cooper, Theresa Wright, Frank Morgan and Anita Louise.  You must see it.  I'll not spoil it by telling you about it.

          No mail today, just the regular routine.  Saw a few patients in the morning, three off another ship and an additional one this afternoon.

          We've worked out something different for our Xmas menu.  I'll send it along to you as soon as they're run.  By the way, enclosed is an additional bit of humor.  Save it.

          I've been catching up on my mail.  Wrote Libby, the Bergmans, Ruth and your mother, Ethyl and Ward Gilman.  Will do another stack tonight and in a couple of days maybe I'll be all caught up.

          Ambie is feeling better.  All patients are the same when they are on the mend.  Complaints galore, but no sympathy from anyone.

          Just for lack of something different to do, I'm going to raise a mustache and a goatee, get a picture taken and zip it off again.

          Dear, get Dave to buy a roll of 35 mm film for a miniature camera (black and white) and air mail it to me.  Also if it is possible to make recordings of some of our party records I could sure use them. One disc recorded at 33-1/3 speed should accommodate five or six records.  Try it and see what you can do.

          Darling, do you remember Linda's first Xmas?  She really didn't know what it was about but we did.  After the war we'll do as before and enjoy all events to the fullest.

          Good night my love, my sweet, how I wish you were here of I was there.  Gimme a kiss!  Another! Let's go to bed.

Love,

Gil

Ulithi

Lt (j.g.) Gilbert Steingart

             USS Ocelot, F.P.O. San Francisco
             Friday 3 November 1944, 10:00 PM

My Dearest

          Today I hit the jackpot again.  After days of no mail I received twenty-two letters, all at one time.  Sixteen from you, a couple from Libby, Ruth, Gilman, Manny, and the Fleishers. That was some haul. Three of the letters bear an October 9 postmark and looked like they had been soaked down.  It is my guess that these letters were on that plane that went down between the States and some of our Pacific Islands.  Anyway they were late but plenty welcome.

          I have arranged your letters chronologically and will try to cover anything that needs any comment.

          First Honey, I'm glad that you are getting out for a little recreation.  As a matter of fact all your letters have a much more cheerful tone and believe me that does make me much happier.

          The mails are going to be very slow from now on until well after Xmas so be patient if you don't hear right on the dot.  If you have anything to send on don't stall.

          I do wish I could see your new hairdo.  So you think I'd like it?  Well you know me so you can tell even if I don't see it.

          My throat cleared up quickly as did my cold and I'm in the pink right now.  I am all through with my shots and their effects. It should be smooth sailing from here on out.

          I am looking forward to the book you mention.  Do you think it is safe reading with so many sailors around? Ah Well, I'll let you know after I've read it.

          Those Xmas cards will never reach me in time so I may stow them away for next year and we'll sign both of our names to them.  By the time you get this letter the package I sent should have arrived and I hope everything will be OK.

          The Halloween party sounds very nice and I'm very sorry not to have been there to see my girls parade around, play games and entertain.

          Nina's split up with Jack isn't all surprising.  You could see it coming every time you saw them together.  However I am surprised at her joining the WACs.  Frankly I don't believe that it was purely a sex problem.  She had her friends and ways: he had his and neither was willing to compromise and divorce is the result.  After all no woman would suit me either after having loved and known you.  By comparison the same probably applies in their case.

          Regarding the office accounts.  Write or phone all who haven't made payment s in the past 30 days.  If you don't get any response turn them over to the bureau.  Pay particular attention to: Shelling, Teaham, and Mitchel.  Go easy on Curry, Guber, and Mellick.  Turn over Buchwalter  right away.  Accept the $20 from Solgado.  We would only net $5 more if we sued and would have to wait for our money.  In the future use your judgment.  Too much time slips buy for me to advise you.

          I really missed Halloween and the kids. Though I wasn't there I was wondering what you were doing.  I suppose I'll get a full report soon now.

          I hope you've sent in my correspondence course.  It takes too much time to send it to you for typing, so I'll have to write it out longhand.

          Still worrying about money?  Forget it and I shan't repeat myself again.

          I told you Mary and Wally would patch things up.  I would have bet my bottom dollars.  And by the way lay off the liquor.  Give other gifts. Whiskey such as "V.O." is practically gone, so put it away and forget about it.  Get Dr. White something at the Marbros.  They have plenty of stuff for men.  Just how far do you think a bottle of whiskey will go with just the family?  Again I say leave it alone.  I sound like a real drunk but good stuff is very hard to get and I'd rather not give it away.

          Sounds like you had a nice time with Freda and I'll drop her a note as soon as I'm caught up on my correspondence.

          Sounds like Dick and his band are really going places.  Doubling with Tommy Dorsey is really something to brag about.  I bet Ruth and Harry are really proud and they should be.

          About the rumor that I'm coming home on a furlough (really leave).  I'm afraid it's just a rumor after all.  So Ivie and Crossland are shipping out .  Well maybe, I'll see them maybe.  This Navy is really small when it comes to meeting old friends. McPherson was stationed with Jim but hasn't been there for several months.  Guess Mrs. Schurr was a little mixed up.

          The party at the Beverly Hills Hotel sounds quite nice and when I get back we have a date to go there so put it down in you date book.  You can fill the date later on.

          From what you write I'm never know my girls when I get back.  I just hope they remember me if only just a little.  Norma is really moving, right along and Linda must be quite a young lady now.  I've been away now for a few days over three months and it seems like three years.  I have a hunch that when I return I'll be back for good even if this war is still unfinished. I do think that my returning won't be too long from now.

          I've written to Edith about a watch and though I haven't heard from her  I'm sure she'll take care of it for me.  As far as what you are spending, I don't care Dear, go ahead and have fun.  That's what money is for anyway.

          Well Darling, the invasion of the Philippines is moving right along.  Though I am not involved in that action, all Navy ships and personnel  in the Pacific area fit in the general plan and have their jobs to accomplish, each one small but all working to a common goal, a final and lasting peace after a decisive victory.

          It is now midnight and time I turned in.  Honey do you remember my first weekend home after I had reported in San Diego?  Well our next meeting will just make that seem like a couple of kids playing house and I hope it'll last more than just a weekend.

          Goodnight my darling, till tomorrow.  I'll see you in my dreams.

Lovingly

Gil

Eleanor didn't know, but this is where Gil was. 

Eating, Working and Loafing

Tuesday 29 August 1944, Morning 

Dearest Eleanor,

          Good morning my Sweet. I dreamt about you last night.  Wow, what a dream!  It was all mixed up but did we have fun!

          Yesterday was just another day.  The usual routine of eating, working and loafing.  Saw a very amusing movie last night  I'm sure you'd enjoy it. "Allergic to Love" with Martha O'Driscoll and Noah Berry, Jr.  It's all about this couple that gets married and every time they kiss the wife gets an attach of hay fever--some fun.

censored

If it is I won't be going ashore until Friday.

          Don't worry about money.  I cashed a $20 check with Dr. Gilman before we left and since then got paid.  I still have over $70 and there will be another pay day Thursday.  I'm sure I can more than get along on what I get here

                   censored 

Got a letter from Deb yesterday, but nothing else.  Bet I get several today.

          Glad to hear Linda is doing so well.  I'd love to hear some of Norma's chatter, but then I'd love to be with all three of my girls.  Sweetheart your last letters sounded like you were so unhappy.  Please don't let this get you down.  This mess will be over soon.  We're young and we'll have lots of good times together.

          Remember, we always enjoyed life and made the most of everything and when we are together again we'll have first, a swell second honeymoon, and then resume where we left off.

          It's time for me to go to work darling. So bye until tomorrow.

Loving you always,

Gil

 

Plumber to Connect Gas Range

 

AMERICAN RED CROSS

Wednesday 5 April 1944, 1730

Dear Eleanor,

          Another day is over--another day closer to Saturday night, then Sunday, and then we'll all be together again.

          Went downtown with Gilman last night.  Had a couple of drinks and turned in at 10:30 P.M.  At noon today I bought a couple of emblems and a box of Nestlé's chocolate.  After posting this letter I'm going to play volleyball till it gets dark and then over to B.O.Q. for a little bull session and so to bed.

          Glad to hear that you've got everything straightened out.  I'm going to have to get a plumber over Friday afternoon to connect the gas range.

          Nothing new happening here, so no gossip to spill.  I said I was going to play ball, but I was wrong.  I must go and place my call to you. God alone knows when I'll get through.

          Love and kisses to all my girls.

Your daily lover to be,

Gil

P.S. Got a card from Ruth today.  Identification bracelets in sterling silver are $10.40.  Priced same downtown last night at $18.50.  Do you think Deb really wanted to go that high for a gift for Dave?

 

Shipping Our Effects to San Diego

Wednesday 5 April 1944, 1145 o'clock

My Dearest,

          Here I am back at the old grind and I mean grind.  I'll sure be glad when those 5 or 6 new officers arrive.  Although they may send out one or two that are already here, this addition will lighten the load considerable.

          As I told you over the phone, the Naval Supply Depot at San Pedro will call you relative to shipping our effects.  Arrange to have the stuff delivered Friday afternoon after 2:00 or 3:00 P.M.

          Last night I went to the U.S.O. they really put on a real show.  One girl in particular imitated Gracie Fields, Shirley Temple (as a child) and "frozen faced" Margaret O'Brien to a "T."

          Guess I'll take a rain check on tonight's show, "Stage Door Canteen."  Have no plans for this evening.  Tomorrow noon I'll run down and look the apartment over and then phone you in the evening.

          Gilman is coming alright so get four tickets for Saturday night.  After the show he's on his own.

          Hope Norma's leaky nose is better by now.  I wish I could get the kids something for Easter.  Maybe I'll find time Friday afternoon to do some shopping.

          It's 1200 and time for a game of volleyball.  Adios, My Sweet.

Love,

Gil

 

 

Flat Will Look Nice with Sticks

Thursday 30 March 1944, 1900 o'clock

Dearest,

          Here I am.  Been waiting almost an hour for the call to you to come through.  I'm sure I won't have to wait much longer now.

          At noon today I went down and saw the flat and was pleasantly surprised.  It really with look nice with a few decent sticks stuck around.  The living room is quite large about 12x18.  The kitchen is small but there is room for a refrigerator and stove such as we have at home.  However, I do think we ought to buy one of those four burners just half the size of the one we have now.  I saw one in Sears for $69.50.  All the rooms have ceiling lights except the living room so you needn't worry about the light problem.  Tomorrow I'll go back to the Supply Depot and find out about storage.

          I really wasn't very excited about this change but now that I've seen the place and its possibility and the prospect of having you and kiddies here with me all together again, I can hardly wait.

          I'm writing in B.O.Q. and Gilman is here to annoy me.

          Forgot to find out what's at the movie, guess I'll walk down and take in the second show if I haven't already seen it.

          I won't seal this letter until after I've talked to you which should be any minute.  Until tomorrow.

Love,

Gil

That"ll Save A Little Gas

AMERICAN RED CROSS

Monday 20 March 1944, 1215 o'clock

Hello My Sweet,

          Stopped to see Leon on the way and with the delay I arrived at the base at 1:30.  Deborah is still doctoring.  That's what she wanted to see Leon about--a doctor to go to.

          Phoned about our ad but no response as yet.  But then yesterday was the first day.  Got a letter from Bruce Stern which I am enclosing.  Dr. Gilman was tickled pink with our invitation so you can go ahead and make reservations, etc.  By the way, don't plan on riding with Leon if you come to San Diego in three weeks.  He said he probably would be taking someone down with him and I imagine that someone will be a "she."

          Had a very busy morning and when 11:30 came, I tore into those sandwiches with a vengeance.  Were they good!

          Dave is taking his car down next week so I'll drive to Oceanside and leave the Plymouth there over the weekend.  That'll save a little gas.

          After this letter I'll drop a note to Miss Earnest and then go out and play a game of volleyball.

          In the meantime my Sweet, keep that smile on your face and a little more hope in your heart.  We'll be together in Diego yet.

          A big hug and kiss to all my girls.

Love,

Gil

 

Treatment and Surgery

Wednesday March 15, 1805 o'clock

Dearest Wife,

          Just finished talking to you and now I'm writing to you.  As I told you a few of us- Taylor, Gilman, Thompson and I went to the dance last night.  The dance was held at Pacific Square, a ballroom as large as the BonTon.  A navy band furnished the music.  Admission was open only to Medical and Dental Corps and associated services i.e. nurses, Waves, etc.  There were lots of extra girls but I didn't feel much like dancing.  So, we sat around and drank and felt pretty high by the end of the evening.

          You asked about my work.  Well today a case was sent to me that I began to turn down because I felt the treatment would be futile.  However, when I was told that the Captain had suggested the treatment I didn't have much choice but to accept the case.  It's a treatment to be followed by surgery to remove a large infected area.  I'll do it all myself.  The fact that I've gotten at least one such unusual case each day this week and that none of the other doctors are getting any indicates to me that I may get some kind of break here.   As far as corpsman instructor, no one has been chosen yet.

          Tonight is my duty night.  It's my turn to sleep in B.O.Q. so I'll turn in early and get a good night's sleep.

          Please don't let the way you feel get you down.  I'm certain this time everything is okedoke.  And this weekend we'll have a little more fun.  From you letter it looks like you have a pretty busy week--good!

          I'll place our ad tomorrow and keep my fingers crossed.

Love and kisses to all,

Gil

Am I Aggravated!

AMERICAN RED CROSS

Wednesday 2 February 1944
 1645

Dearest,

          Am I aggravated!  Took the car out at noon today to go downtown to place an ad and got stuck.  Fortunately I was able to get a club tow car.  I just called and found that the car is O.K.--some fuel pump trouble.

          This really has been a busy day. Thirteen patients, including two WAVES.  The daily lecture was called off, so from four to five we were able to loaf. I didn't do anything last night after all.  Read, took a shower and turned in early.

          Tonight Gilman and I are going into town for dinner.  This damn food may be good but I'm sick of the sameness of it all.

          Got another letter today and am glad to hear that there is no serious illness at home.  Don't worry too much about help down here.  I just mentioned what we are doing now to a couple of married technicians and they begged me to keep them in mind if we rent a three bedroom house.  These boys are really having a tough time because of the financial end of it.

          Just three more days and I'll be home with my three Sweeties. 'Til tomorrow.

Love,

Gil