Description:

BERNARD LAW MONTGOMERY
(1887 - 1976) British Field Marshall who commenced the drive at El Alamein that ultimately drove Rommel from North Africa. Also involved in the invasions of Sicily and France. Historic content partly-printed D.S., 1p. 4to., [England], June 5, 1944. On the very eve of the D-Day landings, Montgomery, overall commander of all troops landing in Normandy, signs his personal message to be read to all soldiers of 21 Army Group, primarily the British Second Army and the First Canadian Army. His message reads in full: '21 ARMY GROUP PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM THE C-in-C To be read out to all Troops 1. The time has come to deal the enemy a terrific blow in Western Europe. The blow will be struck by the combined sea, land, and air forces of the Allies together constituting one great Allied team, under the supreme command of General Eisenhower. 2. On the eve of this great adventure I send my best wishes to every soldier in the Allied team. To us is given the honour of striking a blow for freedom which will live in history; and in the better days that lie ahead men will speak with pride of our doings. We have a great and a righteous cause. Let us pray that 'The Lord Mighty in Battle' will go forth with our armies, and that His special providence will aid us in the struggle. 3. I want every soldier to know that I have complete confidence in the successful outcome of the operations that we are now about to begin. With stout hearts, and with enthusiasm for the contest, let us go forward to victory. 4. And, as we enter the battle, let us recall the words of a famous soldier spoken many years ago:- 'He either fears his fate too much, Or his deserts are small, Who dare not put it to the touch, To win or lose it all.' 5. Good luck to each one of you. And good hunting on the mainland of Europe.'. Signed in facsimile at the bottom, but Montgomery himself has dated the document '5-6-[1944]' at the bottom left and added his own signature 'B. L. Montgomery General' at the top right. Fine condition. Montgomery has quoted Scottish nobleman and Civil War soldier James Graham in his message. This piece was discovered in an old book of 'British Treasures' purchased at a charity auction in 2012 for $2.00 and later sold to our consignor at auction.

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August 14, 2024 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
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$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $999,999 $10,000
$1,000,000 $1,999,999 $50,000
$2,000,000 + $100,000