July 31, 1971: Ray Charles at the Coconut Grove Playhouse

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In today’s letter, Sarah wakes up slow, naps in the beanbag chair, and ends the night with something unforgettable: a live Ray Charles concert at the Coconut Grove Playhouse. She’s in Miami, feeling surprisingly close to her husband. And though he’s halfway around the world, she brings him into the rhythm of her day — from a breakfast BLT, stereo shopping tips, and the music that stirred her soul.

Intro (in your voice):

Welcome back to The Allgoods: Vietnam Through the Eyes of Love. I’m so glad you’re here.

Today’s letter is from July 31, 1971. My mom, Sarah, is in Miami. And while she might not have gotten a letter in the mail that day, she woke up feeling something stronger — a real closeness to my dad. It’s one of those quiet days that ends with something unforgettable.

She writes to Dick about the simple things — the beanbag chair, the kitties, the BLT that Judy brought her for breakfast. But then comes the magic: a Ray Charles concert at the legendary Coconut Grove Playhouse. A place I went to as a kid. And there she was, pregnant with me, missing her husband, and soaking in the sound of a legend.

Here’s Sarah’s letter.

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The Allgoods: Vietnam Through the Eyes of Love is a personal podcast project based on real letters exchanged between Capt. Richard Allgood and Capt. Sarah Allgood during the Vietnam War. Photos of the original letters, family snapshots, and behind-the-scenes commentary are available for supporters.

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