4 of 7

Write now Article Tools

My favorite object is something intensely personal, but I am comfortable sharing it with people I know and trust. It is a letter from my father.

Some background is necessary for explanation. Daddy was a Navy man; he grew up near the ocean and loved flying, so Navy service seemed a natural fit for his disposition. He was stationed in Hawaii with a squadron flying patrol aircraft (this was 1967 and their mission was hunting Russian submarines). Shortly thereafter, part of his group was temporarily sent to Iwakuni, Japan. It was there, on April 28th, 1967, that his aircraft was lost in the Sea of Japan with no survivors. The patrols had been coming into contact with North Korean "fishing boats" with more regularity than ever. Through use of the Internet over the years, I made contact with a number of his shipmates, but at the time I was almost 2 years old, so I never knew my father.

Years later, my grandmother handed me a small folded object-"this was your Daddy's last letter home." I slowly opened it and began to read everyday details about his missions, the guys he worked with, and the usual descriptions of squadron life. What really made an impression on me, however, was this: "IF anything should happen to me over here, please take care of my little family." My brother had been born about 2 months prior to this, and as mentioned, I was nearing my 2nd birthday. Perhaps he had a premonition about his upcoming fate and shared it in the letter. In any case, my grandmother and grandfather have always been there for me throughout my life.

My grandmother gave me this letter several years ago in the house where my father had lived his entire life before entering the Service. I was overwhelmed, and went outside for a good cry. At first, I wasn't sure whether I was happy or sad, but upon reflection, I was glad I had received it. It helped me to know my father better, and I was able to see how much he loved his family. What a great feeling to see my father's thoughts and hopes written down!

That same love was passed down to me when I had a son in 1997, and when I have shared my letter with friends, many have gone straight to the telephone to tell their own father how much they love him. It has always amazed me what the effect of a small, folded crumple of a letter pad could have on my life and outlook. When ever I feel down or out of sorts, I can look at it and know how deeply I am loved.

Learn more about this author, C. William White.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Reflections: Sharing my favorite object?
We want to hear your view. Write now!