Description:

ARCHIVE OF USS ARIZONA HERO MAJ. ALAN SHAPLEY, USMC
ALAN SHAPLEY (1903 – 1973) United States Marine Corps officer who survived the sinking of the USS ARIZONA during the attack on Pearl Harbor, and heroically saved a shipmate who was drowning. He went on to serve with distinction in the Pacific Theater and later in the Korean War. He was awarded the Silver Star for his gallantry on December 7, 1941, and later the Navy Cross for his extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Guam. He would rise through the ranks to achieve the rank of lieutenant general. A fine, large archive of material from Shapley's lengthy, distinguished career. Includes: official carbon copy of Shapley's Silver Star award, 1p. 4to., July 28, 1942, noting: '...For meritorious conduct at the peril of his own life during the attack...in Pearl Harbor...by Japanese forces on December 7, 1941. After his ship had been bombed and set of fire he started to swim towards Ford Island when he noticed Corporal Earl C. Nightingale, U.S. Marine Corps, in distress in the water and about to go down. In spite of enemy strafing and bombing, he immediately went to his assistance, although his own strength almost gave out...'; rare 'Cowboys of the Sea' screw-back enameled lapel pin and 5/8 in. diameter, with Oct. 5, 1942 letter of presentation from the organization to Shapley's wife citing his 'heroic rescue' of Nightingale, and mentioning that the organization recognizes those who save others from drowning; Shapley's membership card in the 'Cowboys of the Sea', four photos, two apparently war-date; copies of correspondence and awards from Halsey, Knox, etc.; a check signed by Shapley; four letters and four photos concerning his burial at sea from the deck of the USS MIDWAY; two notebooks with German text, ca. 1890s (Shapley was born 'Alan Herreshoff'), ten early photographs and CDVs of relatives in Germany, a eulogy, obituaries, etc. Overall very good.

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December 7, 2021 10:00 AM EST
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
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$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
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