TLS signed “G. S. Patton, Jr.,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, July 8, 1943. Letter to Tech. Sergeant William F. Cappel. In full: “Now that we are about to initiate the operation designated as ‘HUSKY,’ I take this opportunity to express to you personally my appreciation of your important and intelligent contribution to the formulation and completion of the plan we are about to execute. I am well aware of the physical and mental demands made upon you and of the cheerfulness and tenacity with which you stuck to your task until completed. I cannot better express my appreciation and congratulations for such commendable attention to duty on your part than to say that I enter the operation with the utmost confidence of success.” In very good condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds, overall toning, and scattered creases.
Operation Husky was the codename for the Allied invasion of Sicily, which would begin on the night of July 9, 1943—the day after Patton wrote this letter. He led the Seventh United States Army, dubbed the Western Task Force, to support landings by Bernard Montgomery's British Eighth Army at Gela, Scoglitti and Licata. The US troops successfully secured their beaches, with Patton personally leading his troops to repulse German reinforcements at Gela. Though unclear what role Cappel played in the planning of the operation—it was primarily organized by the Combined Chiefs of Staff—he was clearly an important contributor based on this personal thanks from the highest commander. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
$75.00
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.
We use cookies on this site to improve your experience. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies. To learn more, please see our Privacy Policy.
