JOHN W. McCORMACK - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 03/10/1965 - HFSID 291596

JOHN W. McCORMACK
The Speaker of the House sends a heartfelt letter to James A. Roosevelt praising him for all of his work and saying "I am proud to call you my friend. My respect and friendship for you are deep and abiding."
Typed Letter signed: "John W. McCormack" as Speaker of the House, 1 page, 8x10½. Washington, D.C., 1965 March 10. On letterhead of The Speaker's Rooms, U.S. House of Representatives addressed to The Honorable James A. Roosevelt, Los Angeles, California. In full:"Dear Jim: I am happy to learn that the Board of Trustees of Temple Beth Zion of Los Angeles, California will honor you on April 17, 1965 in recognition of the many contributions that you have made to Civil Rights, FEPC, Disarmament, and other progressive measures, as well as your deep interest in the welfare of the people of your district, your outstanding service in the Halls of Congress in support of a strong National Defense and a firm Foreign Policy, and the fine contributions you have made in support of brave Israel and her people. The honor that you will receive is one you richly deserve. You are one of the great Americans of this day and age, and one of the outstanding Legislators in the Halls of Congress. You have lived up to the noble and dedicated spirit, both in public and private life, exemplified by your wonderful late father and mother. I am proud to call you my friend. My respect and friendship for you are deep and abiding. In honoring you, the members of Temple Beth Zion honor themselves. With kind personal regards, I am Sincerely yours," Family poverty forced John W. McCormack (1891-1980) to quit school in 8th Grade, but he attended night school and passed the bar exam at age 21. A World War I veteran, trial lawyer and state legislator, McCormack then represented Massachusetts in the US House of Representatives (1928-1971). Alternately Majority and Minority Leader from 1949 to 1963, he was Speaker of the House from 1963 to 1971. After the assassination of President Kennedy, he was second in line for the Presidency for over a year (November 1963-January 1965). James Roosevelt (1907-1991), the son of President Franklin Roosevelt, represented California in the U.S. Congress from 1955-1965. Slightly creased. Otherwise, fine condition.