JAMES G. HARBORD
James G. Harbord sends a typed letter of thanks for the Christmas card.
Typed Letter Signed: "J.G. Harbord," 1p, 7¼ x10½. 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, 1945 December 28. To Mr. A.A. "Wally" Wallgren, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. In full: "I was glad to receive the typical Christmas and New Year card from you and your wife and, while Mrs. Harbord and I did not send out any cards, we join in best wishes to you both for a peaceful and happy New Year. I am feeling quite well although I never fully regained my strength after the severe illness I had at this time last year. I hope you are well." In a handwritten postscript, Harbord writes: "After reading your card I wouldn't have had the nerve to send you anything in the way of a Card except this. Regards From J.G.H." After fighting in the Spanish-American War and serving in the Philippines as Assistant Commander of the Philippine Constabulary (1903-1914), JAMES GUTHRIE HARBORD was appointed Chief of Staff of the American Expeditionary Force under General John J. Pershing in May, 1917. In May 1918, he took command of the 4th Marine Brigade attached to General Omar Bradley's 2nd Infantry Division and led it in the Battle of Belleau Wood (June 6-25, 1918). Early in July, General Harbord assumed the command of the 2nd Division, and by month's end had been placed by General Pershing at the head of the Service of Supply (S.O.S.), overseeing a military and civilian staff of more than half a million people who worked on all aspects of the war effort (procurement, transportation, communication, etc.) except combat. Harbord was President of RCA from 1923-1930, and later Chairman of the Board (1930-1947). Folded in thirds, lightly creased not affecting signature, else fine.