World War II-dated ALS signed “Daddy,” two pages, 7 x 8.75, December 22, 1943. A handwritten letter from John Wayne to his daughter Toni, addressed from “Way down South but not in Dixie,” in full (spelling retained): “I love you and miss you very much. I hope Santa brings you everything you want as I told Michael I can hardly wait to open your present and letter. You are sure wonderful to your Daddy and he loves you very much. How is your Mommie, help her as much as you can. Kiss Patrick & Melinda for me and tell them I love them. You and Michael are getting old enough to help around home, so do as much as you can to be useful. You are the most wonderful little girl in this whole world—which your Daddy is finding is big. Please write to your Daddy and tell Michael to also. I love you Toni.” Wayne adds a postscript: “This paper out here sure soaks up the ink.” In fine condition.
Wayne traveled overseas on USO tours to the South Pacific and Australia for several months in late 1943 and early 1944. 'Along with other USO performers, he entertained troops from Brisbane, Australia, to New Britain and New Guinea. Often wearing a Colt .45 on his right hip, he signed autographs and talked with the troops, sitting up late into the night drinking their 'jungle juice' and swapping stories of the battlefront and the home front.'
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