“Buttons,” Espiritu Santo

Took off from Nandi at 0700 and flew to Espiritu Santo in the New Hebrides. Elapsed time for hop was 2 1/2 hours – average over 200 kn groundspeed.

Landed on bomber strip No. 2 and found the first three planes in full control of the situation. Taxi strip from field went up and down hill as it wound its way through the jungle past B-17 and B-24 revetments.

Squadron is quartered very comfortably in four (Officers) Quonset huts. Open air showers, crappers, and urinals. Wash basins consists of our own “pot” helmets. Had one hell of a job setting up our own cots and mosquito nets.

Located the Minneapolis in the harbor. Her bow was blown completely off in her last action (Dec. 1st). Lew Larson was O.K. though. Mighty glad to see him alive and healthy.

Back to the squadron for dinner, a shower, and to bed.