Death of a Wooden Shoe - U.S. Coast Guard

years of age. The Coast Guard has never drafted anyone, and it is difficult to
imagine why he would have voluntarily enlisted.
George has a thin, hatchet face. It is dark, heavily freckled, and at times his small
eyes are invisible in their dark, deep canyons. His face quivers nervously and his
straight-up hair quivers even more.
Stan tries to intimidate George but George is a man and refuses to be browbeaten
by the bully. Stan makes a move to strike George in the face, but Roach
steps in between the two men and grabs hold of Stan’s cocked, right wrist. The
day is now ruined for everyone in the fo’c’s’le. Elmer Comer whispers, "if he"
(meaning Stan) ever pulls that sort of shit on me, I’ll cold-cock him!" I have to
smile. Comer is about the same size as Fairbanks. I felt sure Stan could devour
Comer in two bites.
July 8, Wednesday; Nanok.
Stayed aboard, washed clothes, developing a summer cold, I think.
July 9, Thursday; Nanok.
Worked hard. Have cold and sore throat. Talked myself into going to the
Fitzgerald’s, for sympathy and pampering I guess, and I get it. The Fitz’s insisted
I stay overnight (hot dog!).
Rumor is strong that we may finally ship out tomorrow morning. That would be
nice. I want to stop going to the Fitz’s and can’t get myself to do it. Shipping out
is the answer.
July 10, Friday; Nanok.
Hot dog!
We got a washing machine today. No more having to wash clothes by hand! My
head cold is so bad I find it difficult to concentrate on the most simplest things.
We hear the Russians have torpedoed the giant German battleship Tirpitz
yesterday in the Barent’s Sea. Unfortunately she was not sunk. She is Hitler’s
pride and joy. Sinking her would be a severe blow to the nutzy leader’s ego and
confidence.
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