This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/26/2020
When it comes to signed handwritten Presidential letters, Dwight D. Eisenhower's are by far the rarest of the 43 men to have led the Free World. Being either his extensive Military background or just a lack of interest in writing freehand, the reasoning behind the lack of handwritten items by Eisenhower is still a mystery. This is a rare autographed handwritten letter, signed March 7 on personal stationery with five stars, to British Admiral of the Fleet, Bruce Fraser. Thanking Fraser for a note, apparently a reconciliation of some type, Eisenhower writes, In part: “I know you did not particularly care for that one [command of the fleet at Scapa in 1943] but I assure you that you’ve cemented some firm friendships in Denmark & Norway. Eisenhower’s letter continues to say that he has a gift for the British Chief of Staff. “Its purpose is merely to remind you that the man means well, even though he’s too often a so and so and a this and that.” The closing line is a rare self-deprecating jab at himself, or perhaps a reminder of harsh words once exchanged between he and some British military leaders, perhaps even Fraser and himself. It is worth further research into the relations between Eisenhower and the key British Admiral. Baron Fraser had a distinguished naval career that began in World War I and ended as Admiral of the Fleet from 1948-1952. During his command in the North Atlantic coast protecting supply lines (the assignment mentioned in this letter), his ships sank the last German Battleship in the North Atlantic. He later commanded the British Pacific Fleet and on behalf of Great Britain signed the Instrument of Surrender of the Empire of Japan. An excellent war content letter in rare holograph with an even more rare form of his signature “Ike E”. Overall in excellent condition with two vertical folds & minor surface impressions. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.