In charge of 200 men…

Mississippi. See detail at right for location of Keesler Field

The War Department started an Aviation Mechanics school at Keesler Field, which was activated in June 1941. “The first shipment of recruits arrived at Keesler Field on August 21, 1941. Many stayed at Keesler to become airplane and engine mechanics, while others transferred to aerial gunner or aviation cadet schools.” (Info on Keesler Air Force Base here.)

Location of Keesler Field

Based on his stationery, Ebner was in Aviation Mechanics School, probably part of basic training here at Keesler, as he had just been drafted on Jan. 23rd. 

Letter

2-12-43 (Misdated on letter as 2-11-43)

Dear Mom,

It’s 10:15 now and I’ve been on the run all day since 5:00 AM and am dead, but I’m only going to dash off a line or two. This is not such an easy job in charge of 200 men because they all have to know about this or that. I may be able to do my work if they day was 50 hours long.

Well, tomorrow is Lincoln’s Birthday and a leader we will never forget. My letters have been irregular, but I’ve been busy; very busy and it’s not only my flight whose number is 750, but my old flight and 5 or 6 new flights who ask my instructions and whose requests I can’t refuse.

I think that tomorrow I may get a pass into town. I’ve got my fingers crossed because I’ve wanted to see Biloxi ever since I reached my destination at Keesler. I made a mistake on the date for today is the 12th, but one day is like another, even Sunday. I’m getting sleepy and I still have to wash up so God bless you all and write soon even if I can’t write often. I received my first letter from “Cookie” today since I’ve been in the service.

Love

Frank

P.S. Still address my flight as 684 and all in the same in the address. How about that picture of “Cookie.”

Original Letter