WW2 Era Letter Written by TBM-3 Avenger Gunner In The Pacific. Later Participated in Sinking the Yamato.

[Heartfeltzero]

This letter was written by an Arthur B. Bradbury. He was born on November 19th 1925 in Schenectady, N.Y. During the war, he would enlist into the U.S. Navy and would serve as an Aviation Radioman and sometimes gunner on a TBM-3 Avenger aircraft, with the VT-83 Torpedo Squadron, assigned to the carrier, U.S.S. Essex.

The letter reads:

“ Tuesday
Feb. 20, 1945
4:15 P.M.

Dear Folks,

Lots happened yesterday and Bob and I both agreed that it was the best day we’ve spent on this island. Early in the morning we decided that we wanted to go into town on liberty. All we had to do was ask the chief and he said “sure” so we didn’t waste any time in getting ready. Very soon after that we were on our way and “our way” happened to be a couple of our officers in a jeep. It wasn’t our luck to ride in that for very long however for the engine soon quit and we pulled it to the nearest garage. Next we hitched a ride on a Marine truck which took us the rest of the way into town. Gosh but it feels good to get dressed up and walk the streets once in a while.

Pause:- Mail just came and I received swell letters from Mom, Patsy, Char, and a nice valentine from Mrs. Riehl at Howlands. That was very thoughtful of her and I’ll write her next chance I get. I laughed so much over your telling about Rob’s being fickle and changing girl friends so often, and what he says. Glad you got the table cloth and napkins O.K. With the one Burke sent, you shouldn’t have any shortage of them now!

Mom, thanks so much for getting the violets for Char. In her letter today she said they’re just what she’d always wanted to receive but never had. Gee but she writes me such wonderful letters.

Patsy enclosed a letter from Burke and also a couple clippings, one of which I am returning.

But to get back to yesterday. The chief reason for our going in was to buy some records for the squadron. You see, Bob and I are the official caretakers of the “fund” and when there’s anything to be bought, we buy it! More fun! Also, we picked up some pictures that were taken at our last party. They all came out swell. Bob has a good camera.

I spent the latter part of the morning and most of the afternoon buying records. Only got thirty but we played each one we bought. (Lots of others too.) At 3:00 we took in a show “Our Hearts Were Young and Gay.” I think you’ve read the book. The movie was the funniest I’ve seen for some time. When we finally came back to the base we were loaded down with boxes of all sorts (we also did several errands for the fellows) and to top off everything, I had six letters waiting for me. (Bob had a big bunch too). Three from Char, and one from hil Dyott, Miriam, and Jean Iverson.

I spent all last evening writing letters, or rather: one to Char. I’ll also enclose Burke’s letter. About all I can think of for now. Your letters are all greatly appreciated.

Much love to everyone,
Art

In yesterday’s letter from Char, she said that Enid had torn a cartilage (SR?) in her leg while skiing. Was awful sorry to hear that and hope it heals up real quick. Was that the same one she had trouble with on her bicycle trips?

Arthur B. Bradbury A.R.M. 2/C “

Throughout his service, Arthur would participate in twenty strikes against enemy shipping, airfields and installations, inflicting extensive damage. His unit also participated in the sinking of the Japanese battleship Yamato on April 7th 1945.

Arthur would survive the war and return home to his family. He would pass away on August 4th 2023 aged 97.




Another Avenger in the same unit^