July 1942
July kicks off with celebrations for the fourth but not like before. The war has really put a damper on life as dim-outs and rationing continues. Permanent gas rationing rules will set the limit at 4 gallons this month. And now even bicycles will be rationed.
Dad’s not at Fort Banks anymore and still settling in at Fort Ruckman. It’s a bit rough but getting somewhat modernized. That means plenty of work. Dad just lives for the pass so he can see Mom. Army life is walking guard on the beach or working in the kitchen, taking classes, or doing whatever you’re told. Good news, the raise goes into effect this month, bad news; Dad needs his wisdom teeth out. Army dentists in 1942 are not what they are today. Poor Dad.
Along with everything else for the war, you are now requested to save fat. Yep, save fats, oils, scraps, etc. in a can and bring to your local “meat dealer” for $0.04 per pound. It’s the Great Nationwide Fats and Grease Salvage Campaign! Seems the Japanese have cut off the oil supply from India needed to manufacture bombs so housewives must become “kitchen commandos”. Did your mom or grandma have a can for grease? If so, this is how it started - with WWII. The following ad is from the Boston Evening Globe.
How to pay for a world war:
What a kickoff - for the first time, retailers in Boston and across the country will start selling war stamps and bonds over the counter to benefit the war effort.
Next letter Wednesday, July 1, 1942
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