Marine officer (1882–1967), nicknamed ‘Howlin’ Mad,’ who commanded the Amphibious Force and the Fleet Marine Force. Two items: rare TLS signed, “H. M. Smith,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, Office of the Commanding General Fleet Marine Force letterhead, March 26, 1945. Smith writes to a Boy Scouts of America Neighborhood Commissioner, in full: “I am happy to enclose herein a photograph and the autograph requested in your card of March 3. I think the Boy Scouts of America is a fine organization which prepares young men for manhood and citizenship by instilling in them the finest principles inherent in our democracy”; and a matte-finish 7 x 5 photo of Smith reading intently with a cigar in hand, signed in fountain pen, “H. M. Smith.” In fine condition, with moderate silvering to the darker areas of the image. Accompanied by original mailing envelope. Widely considered the father of modern US amphibious warfare, Smith played a crucial role in successful US landings in the Atlantic and Pacific during WWII, and would later go on to lead Task Force 56 at Iwo Jima. RRAuction COA.
