As so many did, Bud registered for the draft in July of 1941.
Five months after Pearl Harbor Bud enlisted as an aviation cadet. He earned his wings a year later at Honda Army Air in Texas field on March 11, 1943.
Wow, people of that generation were serious letter writers! My hope is that I continue to find more, but here is one that I know our Mahan cousins will appreciate. The Jackie that is referred to here is Bud’s cousin Jack Mahan, who was at the seminary in Middletown at the time. I’m wondering if this was a routine visit, or if there was some ocaission at the seminary. (Any Mahan cousins have an idea?). From all accounts, Bud, Anna and Jackie were close cousins. There are several other names in this letter that I’m researching, but I know that the Toners were also close friends with the Byrnes family. (Look for the name Richard Toner in a future post.). Anyone know the other names? Mike could be Mike Walsh, and Ned might be Ned Byrnes, a cousin on the Byrnes side.
A Soldier Comes Home 
Dad (Jackie) was at the Carmelite Seminary in Middletown, NY from the age of 14 until he went to Catholic University. I doubt there were that many visiting days; maybe this was a graduation, or ceremony going from postulant to novice, or something. Esp if it was important enough for a telegram!
Might Ned have been Liz’s & Nana’s (Kate’s) brother? I remember Peg Toner, who was on the Board of Ed for years. I remember hearing the name Joe Toner, but I don’t know if I ever met him. Mike could well have been Mike Walsh, but if it wasn’t, I have no idea who it could have been.
What a great find that letter is, along with all the other documents!
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Thanks, Carmel! Yes, with all of those people attending I am guessing it was some kind of event/ceremony.
Yes, I think you are correct about Ned. Yes, Dr. Margaret (Peggy) Toner was on the Board of Ed. I’ve reached out to a few Toner nieces, so I hope to keep adding to the story! Appreciate your help!
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P.S. Mom worked for the draft board around this time…
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