courage and determination to win this war. If only some of the people
back home could see what I have seen these people go through, they
would surely pitch in and do a lot more than they are doing now. It's
really remarkable how these people go on through their work as if
nothing had happened. .. . I hope I've turned out a team in my crew
that has the same old spirit your teams always had. I know now what
you used to feel when you had a good bunch of boys working for you.
My boys are under a littlecdifferent code, through. We are playing
for keeps over here and we must have teamwork at all cost. I tell
you, Doc, I've got an all-American team here and I mean just that."

Melvin Griffin, Hq. Sqd. MOTG 81, USMCAS, Edenton, N.C., writes: “My
new assignment is Athletic, Recreation and Welfare Officer for M.0.T.G.-8l.
We had a squadron at Cherry Point and now we have a group of 6 squadrons.
Also received an increase in the pay envelope starting 31 January 1944,
with permission to wear two bars on my shoulders. That was quite a thrill
when the word came that I had been moved up a rank. I hope I can do the
job well and be worthy of their confidence." Congratulations, Griff, and
lots of good luck to you.

Mit Allen has tried for the Marines twice, but the spectrum test
knocked him out. He and Milt Sullivant both appeared before the Marine
Board in Kansas City, but both were color blind. Mit is practicing law
here awaiting the call because he cannot enlist in-anything at the present
dur to the restriction of the draft board. It won't be long now for any of
the boys here in Lawrence. Paul Rogers, a member of the varsity basketball
‘team with Mit, leaves this week for Fort Leavenworth. Paul has two children.

FLAS H3! ! Wednesday morning, February 16. We have just returned
from Leavenworth early this morning (1:50). The boys played the best ball
of the year in whipping a very good Ft. Leavenworth Flyer team. Eight
Hundred people were out 2+ the hall ten minutes before game time unable to
get in because the auditorium was packed. We admitted them and let them
stgnd around the end lines and sidelines until the entire big floor was
packed and jammed with humanity. I have never seen so many people crowded
in such a space, but both teams were fine sportsmen and dived into the crowd
time after time without hurting anybody. |

We may be on our way. At least we are going to promise Missouri and
Towa State each a real battle when they come here on February 26 and March 3,
respectively. I may be wrong -- I have been many times -- but I am predicting
better days toward the end of our season. .
With my very best wishes to everyone of you - health, happiness, and
a safe return - I am

Very cordially yours,

Director of Physical Education,
FCA: AH Varsity Basketball Coach.

70.