While stationed on Saipan, Hagley used his creative skills to become a nose art painter for the 73rd Bombardment Wing. Painting nose art was actually a great escape for Hagley. It was a good way to take his mind off the danger that surrounded him. Nose artists all believed their paintings helped boost the morale of the plane’s crew. “Those guys are the real American heroes” Hagley wrote. “Maybe my drawings can give them a little lift.” We are not sure if his wife Jean approved of Ray spending so much time painting pretty women!!!

When he wasn’t performing his duties as a clerk typist for the 73rd Bombardment Wing, Ray was taking photos, creating nose art or fullfilling his least favorite task, guard duty. Japanese soldiers, still hiding on the island, would come down from the hills at night trying to steal food and supplies. “I always made sure my back was against a wall.” Hagley wrote.