Midnight in Majuro was a hell of a lot of different than an April in Paris. This island was the typical south pacific atoll, nothing but coral reefs and lots of beautiful beaches. This was a perfect harbor for the fleet. It had a very deep channel that led into a horseshoe shaped bay. We had nets strung across the entrance of the bay to keep submarines out. Most of the fifth fleet used this as a repair base and recreational area

     During temporary lulls in combat we were allowed limited beach parties. It seemed like lots of fun at that time. We were not on land much, so we enjoyed being away from the open sea.

     There would be thousands of young combat weary service men playing around on the beaches in all stages of intoxication. Entertainment included playing ball, swimming, and usually plenty of fist fights between the sailors and Marines.

     On the island there were beautiful shells called cateyes, which the natives used as money. However, the natives were moved to another island to prevent the sex deprived young men from raping their women. There was also extravagant birds on the island. These birds were not afraid of us. I picked one up and carried it like a pet parrot. Unassured that it could fly, I walked in the water until it was over my head. Rather than get wet, he flew away.

     One day I decided to drink my quota of beer and got drunk for the first time in my life. It was the quick answer to escape from the war. My reaction was to go to sleep under a palm tree. When I woke up I had a third degree sun burn. This could have been considered a court martial offense. Any deliberate act that kept you from doing your required duties was against military rules. The only thing that saved me was that the ship's doctor had done the same thing.