Excellent oversized vintage matte-finish 9.75 x 13 Chase-Statler photo, signed and inscribed in ink on the original mat as president, “My best to Ed McKim, friend, buddy, artist, Harry S. Truman, 5/8/45.” Truman had assumed the presidency less than a month before, on April 12, following FDR’s death in office. On the same day Truman signed the photo, the second unconditional surrender was signed in Berlin, bringing an official end to World War II hostilities in Europe. The inscribee, Edward D. McKim, served under Truman in the 129th Field Artillery Regiment from 1917 to 1919, and later served with Truman in the Army Reserve Corps. Framed (in what appears to be the attractive original hardwood frame) to an overall size of 16.5 x 21.5. Ink a shade light but fully legible (partly due to texture of mat), otherwise fine, clean condition. A most impressive Truman image with a multiply notable association! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
