Printed DS, signed at the head in fountain pen, “B. L. Montgomery, Field-Marshal,” one page, 7.75 x 11, May 1945. Historic printed document headed "21 Army Group, Personal Message from the C-in-C." In part: "On this day of victory in Europe I feel I would like to speak to all who have served and fought with me during the last few years…I would ask you all to remember those of our comrades who fell in the struggle…And we who remain have seen the thing through to the end; we all have a feeling of great joy and thankfulness that we have been preserved to see this day…In the early days of this war the British Empire stood alone against the combined might of the axis powers. And during those days we suffered some great disasters; but we stood firm: on the defensive, but striking blows where we could. Later we were joined by Russia and America; and from then onwards the end was in no doubt. Let us never forget what we owe to our Russian and American allies; this great allied team has achieved much in war; may it achieve even more in peace…It has been a privilege and an honour to command this great British Empire team in western Europe. Few commanders can have had such loyal service as you have given me. I thank each one of you from the bottom of my heart…And so let us embark on what lies ahead full of joy and optimism. We have won the German war. Let us now win the peace." The document also bears Montgomery's facsimile signature at the conclusion, as well as a fountain pen signature, "J. Grosvenor Hill," in the right margin. It is affixed across the front pastedown and first free end page of a hardcover edition of The Memoirs of Field-Marshall the Viscount Montgomery of Alamein, K.G., published by Collins in 1958. Affixed to the rear includes a TLS signed "Montgomery of Alamein," one page, 4.75 x 7.5, personal letterhead, November 20, 1958, to J. Grosvenor Hill, in part: "I well remember meeting you at Repton when I visited the school…I am glad you are enjoying the book." In very good condition, with trimmed edges to the document, and creasing and wrinkling from being glued into the accompanying book, and a strip of toning to one edge of the letter; the book's dust jacket has several substantial edge chips, large tears, and stains.
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