Private Roscoe D. Schlink's Ocean Cruise

Dear Folks: I pen this note as we ply the dark and stormy sea. Thanks to Uncle Sam I'm cruising on the Queen Mary, all for free. You'd think we'd travel in style on such a luxurious tub, But I'll tell you about life aboard and what we eat for grub. As usual, the officers and nurses live in comfortable style, But things ain't so pleasant for us in the rank and file. We stand in line for everything, even to use the head. I've been seasick so many times I wish that I was dead. The brass dine at tables with linen, china and silverware, And are served their meals by waiters with eloquent flair. We stand up for chow, eating from greasy steel trays, Trying to keep our balance as the boat rolls and sways. Officers sleep four-to-a-room and have sheets on their bed. I bunk with a hundred other guys on sagging hammocks instead. I hear the Lord's name taken in vain frequently around here, As we stumble over each others' feet and our assorted gear. The brass dine on such things as ice cream, cake and steak. I've had all the stew, orange marmalade and figs I can take. Another bout of mal de mer is attacking me, I gotta go. That's all for now, till next time, Your loving son, Roscoe. Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired (© All Rights Reserved)