TLS, one page, 8 x 10, U. S. Senate letterhead, February 25, 1954. Imagine the pure joy the recipient of this letter felt upon learning that he was officially chosen by up-and-coming Senator John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) as one of Kennedy’s own “Principal appointees” to West Point Military Academy. (A “principal appointee” to the prestigious institution is a candidate for enrollment that has been ranked as the first choice of a Congressman or Senator from their district.) Mailed to Harold C. Lyon, Jr., the letter informs Mr. Lyon in part: “The members of the Selection Board have notified me that they have nominated you for a Principal’s appointment to the Military Academy. This is your official confirmation that I am designating you as one of my Principal appointees this year. May I extend to you my hearty congratulations upon your appointment … I hope that you will have continued success in the West Point examinations and that your appointment will be for you the beginning of a successful and illustrious career as an officer in the United States Army.” Kennedy signed the letter “John Kennedy” in black ink then added “Congratulations” in his own hand. A mild block of uniform toning over the text and signature are present (from a previous display), yet the piece remains in fine condition. It certainly appears as though Kennedy and all others who favored Mr. Lyons as their principal appointee exercised some degree of clairvoyance in selecting him as one who could make great use of a West Point education. To be sure, Lyons has not only been a successful author and public speaker, but has also served as a Fellow at some of the world’s most celebrated universities, and has even been a Fulbright professor. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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