Newport R.I​

June 14, 1919

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Dear Mama,

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               This is my last letter to you before sailing, as we get underway for Europe to-morrow evening, our first stop will be the Azores Islands[1]. My you know I hate to make this trip as we will be gone anywhere from 6mo to 18mo. We started on the first leg of our journey yesterday, we ran from Boston, Mass. to Newport R.I. we continue in the morning.

               Suppose it is about time for harvest, and what kind of climate are you having, good I hope Suppose Bess[2] is at home, you know she owes me a letter and I can’t write to her until she answers it. wonder why she didn’t write one to me, as I have ask you to tell her several times. Perhaps she is mad at me about something as she has an awful bad disposition when she gets down on a fellow. Tell papa and all the Boys, Hello! for me that I will be at home soon, perhaps next year this time if I am lucky. Give Grandma my love, also Aunt Anne.

               Well I must close for this time. By the way if the Navy Department, writes to you and asks you if you are dependent on me for support, tell them yes. as I am drawing money for the upkeep of you now, didn’t you see.

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               Well I must close

               Good Bye-e-e-e-e-e-e-e-e

               Ford.

 

Address all mail

Ens[3] F.K.Lucas U.S.N

U.S.S McCalla

to Postmaster N.Y.

 

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[1] Azores Islands off the coast of Portugal. It was used in World War I as a naval base and had also held a naval hospital.

[2] Sister; Bess Lucas (age 23)

[3] Ensign: lowest rank in the Navy, equating to Lieutenant in the Marines.