Rare ALS signed “Neil,” one page, 7 x 9.75, A Holiday Message letterhead, no date, but envelope postmarked December 17, 1969. Letter to David and Colleen Kelly. In full: “Thanks a million for your kind letter of congratulations after the flight of Apollo 11. I’m so glad you were able to get to the launch and enjoy all the related activities. We’ve been in the middle of a whirlwind and look forward to a return to normalcy in 1970. The Eskimo jade eagle has a place of honor in our living room. It was a particularly thoughtful gift and we appreciate it. Janet joins me in sending best wishes for a happy holiday season. I hope 1970 is as good for you as 1969 has been for me—and I hope we get together.” Under his signature, Armstrong adds, “P.S. Bart McNey died of a blood clot at the brain in Wilmington Del—with no illness.” In fine condition, with two horizontal mailing folds and a trivial crease to top left corner. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Armstrong’s hand
Upon returning from the moon, Armstrong and the rest of the Apollo 11 crew were feted across the country and around the world as part of a 45-day "Giant Leap" tour. By December 1969, Armstrong was exhausted and overwhelmed by all the public appearances, requests for autographs, speeches, and crowds. Still, his accomplishment never went to his head. His humbleness is shown in his writing to friends in this scarce and revealing letter, not realizing that he had become immortal and the demands on him would never fade. Deke Slayton would later say that it was because they didn't think Armstrong would develop an ego that he was selected to be the first man on the moon, and this letter reveals Armstrong's true appreciation for having been given the opportunity to take his place in history. An extremely rare handwritten letter, rich in content related to the Apollo 11 mission and the "whirlwind" that came afterward. RR Auction COA.
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