World War II–dated TLS signed “Winston S. Churchill,” one page, 7.5 x 9.5, prime ministerial letterhead, May 25, 1943. Intriguing letter written from the White House to General Henry H. ‘Hap’ Arnold. In full: “I am so sorry that illness has prevented your taking part in the conversations which we are carrying on just now in Washington. We all miss you very much, and I sincerely hope that you will make a speedy recovery.” In fine condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds. At this time, Churchill was in Washington to meet with President Franklin D. Roosevelt along with military and diplomatic advisors from both countries, for strategic planning sessions which they codenamed the Trident Conference. These meetings lasted for two weeks, with notable Americans like George C. Marshall, William D. Leahy, and Claire L. Chennault participating; Arnold, who had attended a similar meeting in January 1943, was notably absent due to a severe heart attack suffered on May 10, which landed him in Walter Reed for ten days. The most important decision made at the conference was one that would alter the course of the war and become etched in history forever—the nations agreed to combine forces in a cross-channel invasion of France, scheduling a tentative date of May 1, 1944, nearly a year later so that there would be time to build up troops, supplies, and weaponry. This invasion—now known as D-Day—took place on June 6, 1944. A positively remarkable letter of tremendous historic relevance, written to one of America’s premier military leaders while strategizing for some of the most important moments of the war. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA.
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