Significant pairing of items presented by President John F. Kennedy to Major General Sidney S. Wade of the United States Marine Corps during the former’s trip to San Diego's Marine Corps Recruit Depot on June 6, 1963: a matte-finish 7.25 x 9.25 portrait photo of Kennedy seated at his desk, signed and inscribed on the original mount in black ink, “For General Wade — with high regards, John Kennedy,” and handsomely framed to an overall size of 13 x 16; and a dual-sided nylon flag, 42 x 60 (Size 6), featuring the Seal of the President of the United States against a solid blue background. The flag includes its original Department of the Navy envelope, with “Information Section, Marine Corps Recruit Depot” return address, which is annotated in ink, “President Kennedy’s Personal Flag presented to Maj. Gen. S. S. Wade, 6 June 1963.” In overall fine condition.
Major General Sidney Scott Wade (1909–2002) was a highly decorated officer of the United States Marine Corps who is most noted as the commanding general of all Marine forces during the 1958 Lebanon crisis and previously as commanding officer of the 1st Marine Regiment during the Korean War. Wade later served as commanding general of the Force Troops, Fleet Marine Force Atlantic, and MCRD San Diego.
According to the consignor, the grandson of Maj. Gen. Wade, President Kennedy presented both the signed photograph and the presidential seal flag to Wade when the former visited the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California, on June 6, 1963.
Per the presidential itinerary for Thursday, June 6, 1963: Kennedy departed San Diego State College by helicopter at 12:45 pm and, 15 minutes later, arrived at the Marine Recruiting Depot where he was greeted by Generals Sidney Wade and David Shoup. After visiting the barracks, a Marine classroom, and physical training, Kennedy was motored to Hall Field where he delivered a speech to the 10,000 military personnel in attendance. In his oration, the president contrasted the country's relative youth with its strong military tradition and explained how the efforts of the United States Marine Corps help ensure the safety and freedom of foreign nations. From there, Kennedy left the podium and went for a swim in the MRD pool with special assistant Dave Powers. Kennedy then ate lunch before heading to Parade Field to board his helicopter.
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