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Lot 465:
Description
This extensive personal military correspondence archive documents the service and family life of Captain Roger E. Smith (Serial No. 0485978) between 1945 and 1951. The collection contains an assortment of handwritten letters, airmail envelopes, a Western Union telegram, a photographic card, and greeting cards. Most of the correspondence is addressed to the officer’s wife, Mrs. Roger E. (Millie) Smith, at 805 Prospect St., Flint, Michigan.
The letters provide a first-hand account of military life during the post-WWII period and the early Korean War era. Locations documented through postmarks and letterheads include Paris, France (1945); Fort Bliss, Texas (1948); Sparta, Wisconsin (1949); Savanna, Illinois (1950); and Yokohama and Fuchu, Japan (1951). Military unit designations appearing on return addresses include the 358th Ordnance Battalion (358th Ord Bn) and the Antiaircraft and Guided Missile Branch, The Artillery School (AA and GM Branch TAS).
Key components of the archive include:
– A Western Union telegram dated March 7, 1951, sent from Yokohama via Mackay, announcing arrival in Fucha (Fuchu), Japan.
– A photographic card featuring the U.S.N.S. David C. Shanks, a military transport ship.
– Multiple handwritten letters dated December 2, 1945 (Paris); May 7, 1948; July 14, 1949; and August 15, 1950.
– A large volume of red and blue chevron-bordered airmail envelopes, many bearing APO (Army Post Office) stamps and Captain Smith’s military return address.
The correspondence covers personal topics including daily military routines, travel experiences, financial matters such as selling a vehicle, and recreational interests like golf. The letters are frequently signed Rog.
The archive is in good vintage condition. The paper shows expected age-related toning and yellowing. Envelopes exhibit various states of wear including rough-opened edges, minor tears, and creases typical of postal handling. The ink remains dark and the handwriting is legible.
Condition report:
The archive is in good vintage condition. The paper shows expected age-related toning and yellowing. Envelopes exhibit various states of wear including rough-opened edges, minor tears, and creases typical of postal handling. The ink remains dark and the handwriting is legible.
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