World War I Veteran
When the United States entered World War I the US Navy put out a call for help.The hubby's great grand Aunt responded to the call by sending them her binoculars.
When the grand old lady passed away the hubby's Aunt Pat became the guardian of this World War I Veteran. Now Aunt Pat, who is in her 80's,feels that the Veteran needs to be cared for by someone else.
We have accepted this duty and plan on getting the letters sealed and the binoculars shrink-wrapped to keep them in tip-top shape. The case is made of fine leather which has been shined by the handling of it's early years. I can't help wondering how many brave hands held them and where they traveled during their short tour of duty.
The first letter was written on April 12, 1918 to Mrs. David T. Oaks. It is interesting to note, however, that the greeting is "Dear Sir."
Your prompt and patriotic response to the Navy's call for binoculars,telescopes, and spy-glasses, is most appreciated. The glasses will be very useful in the prosecution of Naval Operations until victory is won. At the termination of the war, if possible, every effort will be made to return them to you. when it is hoped you will feel compensated for any evidence of wear, by the knowledge that you have supplied "Eyes for the Navy" during a very trying period. On behalf of the Navy, I wish to thank you most heartily.
F. D. Roosevelt
Assistant Secretary of the Navy
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Of course her donation was not the sacrifice that many made.
I like to think that these were a precious possession and
she gave them to the Navy realizing that she would probably not get them back. Think how excited she must have been to see them again. Perhaps she used them later to go bird watching.
I like to think that these were a precious possession and
she gave them to the Navy realizing that she would probably not get them back. Think how excited she must have been to see them again. Perhaps she used them later to go bird watching.
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I am going to take them for a last walk and look at the world through them one more time before we retire them in a protective case.
Comments
And I learned something new, too. Didn't know that FDR was once Asst Secretary of the Navy. See, a secretary can one day become president. Isn't our nation great?
I am most struck, however, at the impeccable manners, flawless grammar, and genuine gratitude reflected by these letters. A dying art.
:)
That first photo is great. I would put the real thing somewhere safe and find a nice frame for that photo.
My dad collected world war II relics and I now own a medical kit with reusable needles that must have been passed down
Thanks for always giving us a bit of history that we wouldn't hear anywhere else. We, the public, don't hear enough about the good things. This is one of the good things we like to hear about.
As always, good stuff.
Happy New Year!