Letter to David Donaldson from Frank

Letter to David Donaldson from Frank

Letter to David Donaldson from Jim (a former RAF colleague) accepting role of godfather to David's as-yet unborn child and describing life at RAF Watton and how he is trying to find post war employment. Additional information about this item was kindly provided by the donor.

1945-12-30

Five page hand written letter and envelope

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E[Author]JDonaldsonDW451230

[postmark] [postage stamp]
Wing Commander D. Donaldson D.S.O D.F.C.
137 Spa Lane
Woodhouse
Sheffield
Yorks
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R.A.F. STATION
WATTON,
NORFOLK.
30.XII.45.
Dear Don
I am sorry I have not answered your letter before, but as you know December is a busy month added to which I have been on a spot of leave.
What grand news! An addition to the family! you lucky people! As for my being a godfather I consider it an honour and it will give me great pleasure. It will be the first time I have been a godfather this is due to the fact that as you know I am a peculiar chap with funny ideas and being a godfather I take seriously and this is the first time I have felt justified
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in accepting this honour.
I sincerely hope that everything will be plain sailing and that your wish (boy or girl?) will be granted. What bad luck losing all your clothes, I know it's no good my offering to come to the rescue, I'm a trifle too long in the leg.
As you can see I am still in the R.A.F.. My release group (22) was due for release on Nov. 1st, the powers that be at the Air Ministry wanted me to apply for a P.C. or a postponement of release, I refused so the so and so's deferred my release six months which is again subject to revision in six months time. I have also had an interview with the War Office
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for a Civil Affairs Staff Officer Commission I was interviewed by a Major General Anderson who wanted me to take a post right away but again the Air Ministry refused to release me and will notify. but the War Office when they can have me. It appears to be a good proposition and I will probably accept as it means a permanent job, pensionable, and the pay (married no children) is between £650 - £700 per an tax [underlined] free [/underlined]
As regards Watton! I am very happy as I am living with Bobbie and we have super digs. but as regards life on the Station it stinks! It is another wonderful empire! I am C.O. Of the “Y” wing. I have and establishment [indecipherable word]
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1. W/C., 2. S/L, 3 F/L 6. F/O's, 1 W/O, and about 130 other bodies. Air Ministry have tried like you to find a S/L. or W/C. with the necessary qualifications for the job and have failed so now they are considering promoting me. I will be surprised if it comes off and if it does then I can't see them releasing me in six months.
By the way Don you might give me the odd clue Bobbie and I are still trying but so far no luck! I am hoping the new year will bring some luck. I have made a note of your address and will keep you notified of any change in mine.
With the very best of wishes
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to you and Joyce for the new year.
Yours most sincerely
[underlined] Jim [/underlined]
P.S. Bobbie has asked me to convey his kindest regards & sincere best wishes.