TLS signed “John,” one page, 6.25 x 8.75, personal Congress of the United States, House of Representatives letterhead, June 27, 1950. Letter to John G. W. Mahanna of the Berkshire Evening Eagle, in full: “Thanks for your letter of June 15th, and enclosures. I'm more than grateful for your efforts with Ryan. Perhaps when I get up to Pittsfield again in the fall, I'll be able to spend a few minutes with him. I saw the article and the editorial in the Eagle about my recent visit, and was more than pleased with the contents. You did a wonderful job! I'm feeling fine, and am looking forward to seeing you again.” Kennedy adds a handwritten postscript: “Again many thanks for your tremendous help. You could not possibly have done more. In fine condition.
Kennedy and John Mahanna, a former editor of the Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, became acquainted when the latter was on leave from the Pacific Theater. Mahanna, one of hundreds of soldiers returning stateside from Japan, had just obtained a San Francisco hotel room when he detected a New England accent attempting to do the very same. Mahanna approached the man and asked him if he'd like to share the room. The stranger, John F. Kennedy, accepted, which in turn led to a lifelong friendship that extended throughout JFK's days in the White House.
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