ALS signed “Ike,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.75 x 8.75, Hotel d’Angleterre, Copenhagen letterhead, January 11, [1951]. Letter to “My Love.” In part: “Before I start, this morning, the endless round of calls, conferences and lunches, I have a few minutes to tell you of my travels since I left you last Saturday. (This is Friday). I’ve reached Paris without meeting a single rough spot in the sky—to avoid being ahead of time we had to fly around France about an hour. We remained in that city from Sun. Morning until Tues. Afternoon, going at a hectic pace. Then we went to Brussels, The Hague and Copenhagen on one night stands. We shall leave here (weather permitting) right after lunch, landing at Oslo, Norway about 4:00 p.m. The next day to London, from where I hope to talk to you on the phone. This kind of thing is exhausting, and the more so for me because, when I come home [?] each evening, I’m secretly resentful at the circumstances that prevent you being here. I miss you very much—I can’t tell you how much! As of this moment the entire party is in good health, and everybody busy as bees. There are letters to write, thank you cards to send, arrangements for a dozen visits each day, trips to and from airports, etc., etc. So no one seems to be idle. Won’t you call Barbie & John for me and give my love to them & David & Ann. I’d really like to have that little cub along to show him off! Our search for a location near Paris for hqrs and home was not too successful, but it was very brief. We are still hopeful. There are some noisy communists in every capital—I sometimes wonder whether they know what they’re trying to do to themselves! Well darling, this note brings you all my love—don’t forget me.” In fine condition, with light show-through from writing to opposing sides.
In December of 1950, at the request of the European allies, Eisenhower was appointed Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, responsible for directing the organization’s buildup of military forces. Responding to the Soviets’ recent demonstration of their first atomic weapon, the nations agreed that a common defense against the growing threat of Communist aggression was crucial. But building a multinational army within the constraints of a Europe that was recovering from World War II and convincing war-weary Americans of NATO’s necessity was a major challenge. By mid-1951, Eisenhower had made a strong case before Congress and extensively toured Europe to advise participating nations, quickly turning NATO into a genuine military force. His work in this role helped foster important relationships with the leaders of post-war Europe and gain strong international understanding and respect that would come into play time and again during his presidency. A sweet letter home to his beloved wife, written as he worked to build a new kind of army, ‘to preserve the peace and not to wage war.’ Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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