TLS signed “G. C. Marshall,” one page, 7.25 x 10.25, Chief of Staff of the Army letterhead, circa December 1942. Letter to Norman D. Vaughan, a dogsled driver who, at the time, was helping the army with search and rescue missions in Greenland. In full: “You and your men in your isolated station have not been forgotten, nor has the highly important part you are playing in the war effort. We appreciate the hardships you undergo and the importance of your services to our European and African operations. My personal thanks to you and your men with Christmas greetings. I will try to see that you get your chance at the enemy in 1943.” In fine condition, with some light soiling to the upper left. Accompanied by the original envelope, stamped “Confidential.” Vaughan had explored Antarctica with Richard E. Byrd during his 1928–1932 expedition, and ultimately attained the rank of colonel as a search and rescue dogsled driver during WWII—his feats included the organization of dogsled evacuation for wounded soldiers during the Battle of the Bulge and retrieval of the top-secret Norden bombsight from a downed plane in enemy territory. A great letter associating two military men who dared to think outside the box. RRAuction COA.
