Official ‘Press’ identity card from the London 1948 Summer Olympics, issued to Massachusetts journalist John D. Hanlon by the Organizing Committee for the XIV Olympiad. The ID card, two pages, 3.75 x 5.5, dated July 14, 1948, numbered 12411, features Hanlon’s photo affixed to the front page, and the inner pages filled out in ink with Hanlon’s personal information and affirming his temporary visitor status for the Olympics. In fine condition. Accompanied by a press pass for the Victoria & Albert Museum and an original London transport booklet for the London 1948 Summer Games.
Lt. Col. John Douglas Hanlon (1917-1996) was a native of Winchester and a graduate of Winchester High School (class of 1935) who became a member and battalion leader of the 101st Airborne, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, during World War II. He won international recognition in 1947-1948 for redeeming a war-time promise to return sheets sacrificed by the villagers of Hemroulle, Belgium, to camouflage American paratroopers during the Siege of Bastogne. For the town's role in this effort, Winchester received the gift of 10 Stations of the Cross paintings from the mayor of the village of Hemroulle. After the war, Hanlon pursued a career as a newspaperman and columnist, leaving Winchester to take a position with the Providence Journal.
