World War II-dated TLS signed “G. C. Marshall,” one page, 7 x 9, War Department, Office of the Chief of Staff letterhead, July 28, 1942. Letter to Martha Haley, in full: "Words can be of little consolation at this time of sadness, but I want you to know that you have my heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your son. James M. Haley has made the great contribution to the American way of living. He was a soldier who died in line of duty and his sacrifice will not be forgotten by those who are determined to bring this terrible struggle to a victorious conclusion." In very good condition, with scattered light staining, and a more obvious diagonal stain.
When World War II began, General Marshall made it a practice to personally sign every condolence letter sent to the families of fallen soldiers. This letter, sent to the mother of Private James Haley, is a rare example of one of these personally-signed sympathy notes. As the war continued and fatalities mounted, the general was forced to use an autopen, a fact kept secret from the general public.
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