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384

over the lines or into Germany.

When I left my position with the Lake Torpedo Boat Company in Bridgeport to enter this service I said I hardly expected better than what most flyers get - either a wound that incapacitates them, or sudden death. And I feel the same way about it today. Only I've got a peculiar streak in me somewhere: I feel that whatever happens it [[strikethrough]] [[?]] [[/strikethrough]] ^[[ought to be considered simply as]] the Brooks contribution to the cause. I said to my mother, "If a fellow like myself with no attachments or dependants; in the pink of condition; and as free as the air, doesn't go to do the right thing, who will?" And she let me go, and was brave about it (even as was ^[[a few hours]] later my beloved [[strikethrough]] [[?]] [[/strikethrough]] Ruth) and all I hope to do is to "bag" a great many more Huns before they get me. I've had satisfaction as it is, [[strikethrough]] God knows[[/strikethrough]] ^[[Heaven will witness]], but I hope for a good record in the future.