Description:

George Patton TLS Offering Words of Comfort: "I was jumped in the last War and in this one, and have not suffered by it in the end"

A remarkable World War II-dated typed letter signed by General Patton offering words of encouragement to an overlooked Major. 1p, measuring 7.25" x 10.5", Fort Benning, Georgia, dated February 18, 1942. Signed “G. S. Patton, Jr.,” and typed on colorful Headquarters I Armored Corps letterhead. The letter, addressed to Major L. M. Grener of the 6th Armored Division, challenges the recipient not to become disheartened after being passed over for promotion. With flattened mail folds, light toning, and a few small stains affecting part of Patton's bold signature.

In part:
"…It is my understanding that anyone promoted by selection had to have had five consecutive superior ratings. I do not know what your ratings were prior to entering the Armored Force, nor do I remember what they were since, as I did not make them out. I think that you are wrong when you say that only Lt. Colonels will command tank battalions because I know that some battalions are now being commanded by captains who will shortly be promoted to majorities. Personally, I should be very glad and, in fact, delighted to have you as a battalion commander, because I believe your experience should be very helpful. I would not be downhearted just because I have been jumped. I was jumped in the last War and in this one, and have not suffered by it in the end."

Patton's reference to being "jumped" offers an insight into his famously strong personality and candor about himself, as well as his success in ascending the military ranks to the highest levels. Patton had been passed over for promotion in the past for being "a disruptive influence on the peacetime Army", and in 1943 he would later be thrown into scandal after his infamous "slapping incident" when he struck and berated several soldiers who were suffering from shell shock and battle fatigue. The scandal resulted in a reprimand from General Eisenhower and Patton was passed over to lead the invasion of northern Europe. Following the capture of Messina in August 1943, Patton did not command a force in combat for 11 months.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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