Born on October 17, 1893 in Ontario, Canada, Patrick J. Galvin joined the Air Mail Service on June 9, 1919. At the time he joined the service, he was single and living in Saulte St. Marie, Wisconsin. Galvin had served in the military during World War I, leaving that service on January 4, 1919.
Although Galvin said he had given the service notice before he had to leave, he was fired on June 21, 1919 by Second Assistant Postmaster General Otto Praeger for "leaving without notice."
On June 26, 1919, Galvin asked to be reinstated in a letter to Otto Praeger.
I am sorry if you were not informed as to why I was called so suddenly away from Belmont Field, Long Island, as I sent word to Mr. Shorty Powers by letter, and said that I had just received a telegram that I must leave at once, as my mother was very sick. I also wrote Mr. Edgerton the following day. I cannot see why you did not receive my letter or word from Mr. Edgerton, and I believe that if your mother was in a critical condition like mine is in, and has been, for the past year, you yourself would want to help her if you could.
I am really sorry I inconvenienced you and Mr. Edgerton in any way, and will be willing to assist you in getting or finding another pilot to you.
Sincerely yours, J. Galvin
p.s., as to the two days salary that you mention, I do not want it.
Praeger's anger was not mollified by Galvin's letter. On July 3, 1919, he sent this terse reply to Galvin's request. "Concerning your letter of the 26th ultimo, you are advised that the Bureau was not notified concerning your departure nor the request therefore. Your position has been filled satisfactorily."
