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Up for sale is a poignant, original typed letter dated July 27, 1918, sent from "Somewhere in France" by Cpl. H. J. Harvey of the 462nd Aero Squadron.
This letter offers a rare, first-hand look at the daily life of an American airman during the final months of World War I.
Key Content Highlights:
• The 462nd Aero Squadron: Rare postal history from the Air Service branch of the AEF.
• Aviation/Air Raid Mention: Cpl. Harvey describes a "dirty dutch" (German) plane bombing a town four miles away at midnight, noting the sound of them "humming in the air."
• Soldier Life: Mentions playing baseball in French villages and traveling 28 miles to play a "hospital team."
• Condition:
The paper shows original fold lines and minor age-toning consistent with its 100+ year history. Signature/Censor marks are present at the bottom.
Bonus Item:
SS Ile de France Silk Tally
Included with the letter is an embroidered silk cap ribbon (tally) for the SS Ile de France, the legendary French Line flagship.
• Details: Features gold-wire style lettering and colorful embroidered flags of the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique.
• Note: This ship famously served as a troopship during WWII, though this tally is a beautiful vintage souvenir piece in its own right.
WWI AEF, Air Service, Aero Squadron, Postal History, 1918 France, SS Ile de France, Ocean Liner Tally, Militaria, Ephemera.
