When I was born on October 8, 1944, my father was overseas. When he received word of my birth, he wrote this letter to me. It is the most precious memory I have of him, for it reveals so much about him..
Curacao, N.W.I.
Mon. Oct 23, 1944
Dear Andrea,
It is high time your daddy made his acquaintance with you. - I received your wonderful letter last nite. I want you to know I appreciated that letter very deeply. I don't mind telling you tho', I was very much surprised to learn my little daughter was so clever, and so young too. Imagine, writing a letter when just nine days old!
Well, my darling little one, I suppose you might be worried a little bit as to what I think of little girls, and that perhaps I might be a little disappointed you turned out to be a little girl instead of a little boy. - Well, you just take it easy, because I like little girls and I'm terribly glad you are what you are. - I wouldn't trade your little finger for all the little boys in the universe.
I feel pretty awful not being able to be with you and your mother, especially at this time. - When you came into this world, darling, I was miles and miles away, but my heart was with you and mummy. Even tho' I've never seen you, I want you to know that I'm awfully proud to be your daddy. - Listen, my darling, to what I have to say; your mummy is the most wonderful woman I know or ever will know, and I want you to love her always and be very proud of her.
Well, darling, I guess that is all for the time being - I promise to write again soon. - Give my love to mummy and remember I love and miss you both very much.
Your Daddy
P.S. Honey, I'm anxiously waiting for that "pin-up" picture of you, so don't fail me! XXXXX.
Daddy and Me... 1945
This was the first time we met "in person"!
