Original 3.75 x 6 menu from the twenty-sixth annual Balaclava Dinner, Dance and Reunion of Members of the 4th “Queen’s Own” Hussars Regimental Association, held on October 22, 1938, signed “W. Churchill” in pencil on the reverse. In very good condition, with mild to moderate soiling and staining to the front and back covers passing through the first few letters of Churchill’s name.
The 4th Queen’s Own Hussars were established in 1685, carving for itself a rich history that included the Charge of the Light Brigade. In 1895, the 20-year-old Churchill was commissioned in the regiment, with his attachment taking him to Cuba, where he witnessed his first battle, and the following year to India, Egypt, and other posts.
Six days before he gathered to reminisce with his fellow veterans at this 1938 affair, Churchill gave an impassioned speech entitled “The Defense of Freedom and Peace” in which he addressed all US citizens, imploring Americans—and the world—to take note of the mounting threat posed by Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany. He was critical of world leaders who stood by and allowed Hitler to annex the Sudetenland, and questioned, “Can peace, goodwill, and confidence be built upon submission to wrong-doing backed by force?” Noting that the American people seemed to understand the dangers Europe faced at the hands of German tyranny, but that they could not stand by as mere spectators. Churchill said, “I hear that they are saying in the United States that because England and France have failed to do their duty therefore the American people can wash their hands of the whole business. This may be the passing mood of many people, but there is no sense in it. If things have got much worse, all the more must we try to cope with them.” Despite Churchill’s warnings, most world leaders sat by and watched as Hitler amassed his power—to disastrous results. A menu from a reunion of a centuries-old armed force, signed by one of the century’s greatest leaders on the verge of a world war. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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