Exceptional vintage 7.75 x 10 paperstock photo of General Patton removed from a booklet entitled 'Third Army: A Brief History of Operations in Europe,' signed in the upper right in fountain pen, “G. S. Patton, Jr.” The photo shows Patton in a distinguished half-length pose, looking sternly into the camera and wearing battle dress with his combat helmet exhibiting his four-star rank. Lower border of photo is annotated in black ink: “Autographed Nov. 1945.” Cloth-matted with an engraved plaque that reads: “Shortly before his tragic accident Dec. 9, 1945, General Patton autographed his likeness for 2nd Lt. John (‘Big John’) Papay, Officer in charge of security at Patton’s headquarters.” Framed to an overall size of 14.25 x 16. In very good to fine condition, with scattered horizontal stains. Accompanied by the original ‘Third Army’ booklet, 13 pages, 8 x 10.5, reproduced by the 652nd Engineer Company, which retains its original color “Third US Army” fold-out map. On December 8, 1945, Patton was involved in an automobile accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. He died in his sleep 12 days later of a pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure. A remarkable portrait of the Third Army commander, signed and presented to his security officer a month before his untimely passing.
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