American military officer and polar explorer (1844–1935) who led a notable expedition to the Arctic during 1881–1884, setting a new ‘farthest north’ record. Stranded and without food, the party lost 18 of its 25 men to starvation, drowning, and hypothermia, and another man was executed per Greely’s orders. Greely was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1935. ALS signed “A. W. Greely,” one page, 5.25 x 6.75, Cosmos Club letterhead, March 13, 1928. Letter to Herbert Whitlock. In part: “I have read with interest your sketch on Operts…I feel that the government acted most ungenerously in not purchasing his arctic pictures on the Lady Franklin’s Bay Expedition.” In fine condition, with mild toning and soiling to the corners. RR Auction COA.
