MAJOR EDWARD V. "EDDIE" RICKENBACKER - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 10/13/1942 - HFSID 320812

EDWARD V. "EDDIE" RICKENBACKER
A letter from the WWI hero and businessman to a friend, thanking him for his birthday wishes
Typed letter signed: "Eddie", in black ink, 1 page, 7¼x10½. October 13, 1942. New York City, New York. In full: "My dear Dick, On my return to the city after one of the most interesting trips which took me to England, I found your birthday greetings and good wishes, and want you to know I more than appreciate the thought. Kindest regards and best wishes. Sincerely". Captain Edward V. "Eddie" Rickenbacker (1890-1973) had joined North American Aviation, the parent company of Eastern in 1933 and became its General Manager in 1935, expanding its shipping and travel services. Rickenbacker purchased Eastern in March 1938 and became its President the following month. He remained in Chief Executive positions until his retirement in 1959. "Rick" had attained recognition as a race car driver before commanding the famed 94th "Hat-in-the-Ring" Squadron during WWI. He downed 26 enemy aircraft, becoming America's greatest Ace and received the Congressional Medal of Honor. After the war, Rickenbacker promoted commercial air travel and the advancement of air power for the U.S. military. During WWII, he was a special representative in the inspection of air bases in the Pacific. Rickenbacker is a member of the National Aviation Hall of Fame. Normal mailing folds. Binding holes on left margin. Toned. Faint stains on top margin. Surface creases. Otherwise, fine condition.