Wednesday, July 4, 1945
Turn in my equipment and leave my company. Ride German bus to 27th Replacement Depot, near Marina de Pisa. On my way home. I saw Raymond last nite before leaving. I am now at Leg Horn [Livorno]. I get put on a few details. This is something like rest camp.
Friday, July 6, 1945
Get clothing checked and film developed.
Monday, July 9, 1945
Go through processing for going home.
My official "walking papers." My name is #19 on the list.
Friday, July 13, 1945
To sail by boat this p.m. Load on USS Henry Gibbons at 5 p.m.
USS Henry Gibbons; my ride back to the States. [courtesy: www.thunderbolt.ottocarter.com]
Saturday, July 14, 1945
Pull out of Leg Horn at 9:30 a.m.
The harbor at Leg Horn (Livorno). This is my last glimpse of Italy. [courtesy: Romatti at www.pbase.com]
Monday, July 16, 1945
Arrive at Oran at 6:30 a.m. I was last here 32 months ago. Pull out at 10:30 a.m. Pass through Strait of Gibraltar at 12:30 p.m.
Homeward bound.
WAR UPDATE: July 17, 1945. Truman, Churchill and Stalin meet at the Postdam Conference. Here, Truman tells Stalin that the United States has a secret weapon which can end the war. In just 20 days, an atomic bomb will destroy the city of Hiroshima, Japan.
Saturday, July 21, 1945
Run into stormy weather. Have had smooth sailing until now.
Wednesday, July 25, 1945
Arrive at Newport News, Virginia at 11:30 a.m. Go by train to Camp Patrick Henry, only a few miles. Nice feed. Get ice cream and beer, etc., and PX rations. Send telegram home in evening.
Camp Patrick Henry was a sight for sore eyes. [courtesy: public domain]
This is where I sent my telegram at Camp Patrick Henry. [courtesy: public domain]
Thursday, July 26, 1945
Leave Camp Patrick Henry by train at 8:30 in the evening
Friday, July 27, 1945
Go across Virginia, West Virginia, corner of Kentucky, into Ohio. Reach Cincinnati before dark. Then get into Indiana.
Saturday, July 28, 1945
In Chicago at 6 a.m. Train lays over till 6 p.m. We spend day in Chicago. Have good time.
It has been a long journey. On Friday, June 12th, the last entry will be made in "Oak Valley to Po Valley." At this time, I invite you to post any comments or thoughts you may have as this experience comes to an end. Thank you for following along. We'll see you on Friday!
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