This letter was Richard’s last. He wrote it just “5 days” before he was killed.
p.s. watch my return address I’m all over everywhere.
May 19, 1968
Dear Mom & dad, how is every one? I hope fine, when you receive this letter, May will be just about over. I will be down to “6 months” and a couple of days left in Dec which mounts to nothing. I’m going to have a big celebration when I leave Vietnam. and when I get back to the world I won’t forget to keep the seventh day open to the lord. I guess the time is passing by fairly fast for you, because you’re pretty busy “But not for me.” received all your letters Ma, and I’m “always” glad to hear from a squared away mother, as the army would say it about a [?] number 1 soldier. It all just comes to the heading your the best in my books. Ma also heard from aunt Flo. I know you will thank her for me, about writing to me. it was nice of her. so far your doing good ma, about writing. keep up the good work. now I want to let you over— know you will always be Number 1 mother in my books. heard you got Nancy a portable hair dryer. I think it is (was) nice of you to always look out for the other person
But Remember “stay like you are, and don’t let them take advantage of a well natured mother. also, keep up the good work & keep the letters flowing in. say hi to everyone.
Love
Rich
Richard Carlson (b.1948-d.1968)
U.S. Army, 1968
The last letter Richard’s family received before he was killed in action on May 24, 1968. Letter dated May 19, 1968.
Courtesy of Robert Santos
