ROBERT GILMOUR LE TOURNEAU - AUTOGRAPH SENTIMENT SIGNED - HFSID 293774

R. G. LE TOURNEAU
The "Dean of Earthmoving" has signed with the Biblical citation later engraved on his tombstone.
Autograph Sentiment signed: "R G LeTourneau/Matt. 6:33", 5x3, Accompanied by three items: a transmittal letter on his company letterhead, dated December 10, 1945; the cover of a reprinted article about him; and a full-page newspaper article titled "'In Partnership with God,' Bob LeTourneau is Making Millions." ROBERT GILBERT LE TOURNEAU (1888-1969) dropped out of high school, worked in construction, and became a contractor. While tinkering with the heavy equipment, he discovered ways of improving it. In 1929 he founded his own company to manufacture earth-moving equipment. In World War II, 70% of the heavy engineering equipment in use by the US armed forces was of Le Tourneau's manufacture. He received 300 patents, and continued designing new equipment until his death. In 1961 Le Tourneau, a devout Christian, founded what was to become Le Tourneau University, in Longview, Texas. Originally established to give technical training to missionaries, the school now offers degrees in engineering, aeronautics, and the liberal arts. Le Tourneau, who was called "the dean of earthmoving" and "God's businessman," has signed with the Bible verse engraved on his tombstone at the University: Matthew 6:33: "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." Ralph Errington Ward (1926-2009) a fighter pilot and squadron commander in the China-Burma-India Theater of World War II, went on to become President and CEO of Cheseborough-Ponds, Inc., transforming the cosmetics firm into a major home product conglomerate. Staple holes at left edge. Toned from previous adhesive on verso. Otherwise, fine condition.