Description
TLS signed “Alan B. Shepard, Jr.,” one page, 8 x 10.5, no date but circa 1963. Letter of recommendation for Guenter Wendt. In part: “These opinions were formed on the basis of my association with Mr. Wendt during the time he was employed by McDonnell Aircraft Company at Cape Canaveral, Florida. His position at the tie of our association, 1961 and 1962, was that of Engineering Foreman in charge of launch preparation of manned and unmanned Project Mercury spacecraft…The success of Project Mercury flights is history. This success could only come with dedicated effort, correct engineering procedures, and proper management. Mr. Wendt has the ability to perform in all three areas in an outstanding manner. His participation during our association was responsible to a very high degree for the successful launchings of Redstone and Atlas powered spacecraft…He supervised the preparation of America’s first spaceship, and was the last person to inspect and approve its condition prior to launch. I was the pilot of this vehicle. I had complete confidence in the decisions made by Mr. Wendt prior to launch. Perhaps the highest compliment I can pay is to express my willingness to have him supervise the preparation of the next or any vehicle which I may fly in the future.” In fine condition. Accompanied by two related items: a diagram of the Mercury spacecraft, signed on the reverse by Wendt and stamped as being from his personal collection; and a card from a reunion event honoring the first American in space. The Guenter Wendt Collection, ex. Ken Havekotte. Pre-certified Zarelli Space Authentication.
Terms and abbreviations used in our descriptions.
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