Lot #285

Chester Nimitz Signed Photograph of Japanese Surrender - Presented to a Prestigious Rear Admiral

Description

"To Admiral Allan E. Smith, USN – with best wishes and great appreciation of your contribution to the war effort which made possible the above scene. C. W. Nimitz, Fleet Admiral USN"

Vintage matte-finish 13 x 11 photo of Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz signing the Japanese surrender aboard the USS Missouri on September 2, 1945, signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen, "To Admiral Allan E. Smith, USN – with best wishes and great appreciation of your contribution to the war effort which made possible the above scene. C. W. Nimitz, Fleet Admiral USN.” The image also bears his facsimile signature in the area of the surrender documents. In very good to fine condition, with edge rippling, adhesive residue, and light dampstaining to the borders, slightly affecting two words of text (one of which has been traced over in an unknown hand).

Rear Admiral Allan Edward Smith (1892-1987) was a top naval commander throughout a long, prestigious military career. During World War II, he was the commander of the USS South Dakota, and later served as commander of Service Squadron Ten. In the Battle of Okinawa, he was the commander of Cruiser Division 5 and commanded the bombardment of the island in support of the invasion Task Force. By 1944, Smith was a Rear Admiral and Acting Commander of the 17th Naval District, Kodiak, Alaska, and was the commander of Cruiser Division 5 at the start of the Korean War. He later acted as the commander of the 13th Naval District in Bremerton, Washington. In 1950, he was Commander, United Nations Blockading and Escort Force Korea, as well as the commander of Task Force 95. Smith was awarded three Legion of Merit medals and the Navy Distinguished Service Medal.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts Ft. Rev/Civil War, and The Collection of Dr. Joseph Matheu Part 1
• Dates: #721 - Ended 07/09/2025

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