March 2017 Auction Ends Thursday, March 30th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/30/2017
Rene Gagnon lot of WWII letters, comprising an autograph letter signed and a typed letter, along with two signed mailing envelopes signed by Gagnon. Gagnon was one of the six soldiers pictured in ''Raising The Flag on Iwo Jima'', arguably the most famous photograph of all time. In the autograph letter signed, Gagnon writes to girlfriend Pauline Harnois on 29 December 1943, while guarding the Naval Prison Camp in Charleston, South Carolina: ''...it's been...years and the war is still on. Remember when I used to think the war would end too soon and I wouldn't have time to get in the service, I guess I didn't realize what it would be like to be away from you and home...everyone else was getting [into the service] so, I wanted to be like the rest...when I stand four hour watches at night I have a lot of time to plan things for the future...its a lot of fun thinking about that little cottage with the green shutters, and the kids running around...they can't stop me from dreaming...the war's got to end sometime and when it does, we'll be back together again...the bugler is sounding 'Taps' that means lights out...Rene xoxoxo''. Accompanied by the mailing envelope made out in Gagnon's hand with his signature and return address. Letter runs 4pp. in green ink on 2 ruled sheets, measuring 8'' x 10.5''. Lot also includes a typed letter, dated 29 December 1943 from the Naval Prison Camp. Gagnon expresses his desire to get home so he can marry Pauline: ''...I'm coming home in a couple of weeks little darling now what do you suppose your father would say if I brought you a ring and you know what kind I mean...so why not in January when I come home on furlough, if you still don't know what I'm talking about, I mean an engagement ring...'' Signed in type, ''Love as Ever / Rene''. Letter on 1pp. measures 5'' x 8'' with strips of clear tape in rows across the letter. With humorous WWII envelope hand-addressed and signed by Gagnon. Very good condition.
Rene Gagnon WWII Letter Lot -- ''...Remember when I used to think the war would end too soon...''
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