Thursday, August 29, 2013

Thursday, August 5, 1943

Thursday, August 29, 2013

My Grandmother is studying to become a Yeoman 2nd Class.  The Navy informed the WAVES that if they have the approval of their commanding officer, they can go on ahead with their testing even if they haven't served the required 9 months.  I didn't know she wanted to continue her career with the Navy.  Her commanding officer even said, "When (you're) ready to try for Officer's Training (I) would do everything possible to see that (you) made it."  Grandma doesn't know if she's going to apply for it because she might not get it, but she is going to move forward with the Yeoman 2nd Class testing.  She wants to ensure that she receives, "...the big sum of $96 a month."  Then there's my favorite line. It's perfect when you take it out of context.  "When I am second class you can have it put in the paper."  I think that would set her raspy giggles off for sure.

She also talks about all of the Miami night clubs that she and Marvel visited during their time with the WAVES.  I can only imagine what nightclubs 1940s Miami produced.  Places called Skybar, The Drum, and Flagler's Garden.  She even heard Les Brown's Orchestra when she danced at Flagler Gardens.  

Before you read this portion of the post, I would recommend listening to this song as you read it. 

Oh can you just imagine?  The steamy air hugging your clothes close to your body as you swirl across the dance floor with a gorgeous Navy Ensign's arm around your waist.  The shock of the icy drink as it glides down your parched throat during a break in the music.  It's all palm trees, smoky nights, and full brass bands splashed against the backdrop of battleships.  Live in the moment and inhale those memories.  Cause when you leave, you don't know if you're ever coming home.




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