Lot 107

Previous image preload Next image preload

Description:

HUGH DOWDING
(1882 - 1970) Royal Air Force officer. Dowding was Air Officer Commanding RAF Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain, and is generally credited with playing a crucial role in Britain's defense, and hence, the defeat of Hitler's plan to invade Britain. He was unwillingly replaced in November 1940. DOWDING'S FAREWELL TO HIS "FIGHTER BOYS" Fine content D.S., a printed message sent by Dowding to R.A.F. fighter pilots following his dismissal in November, 1940, in part: "My Dear Fighter Boys, In sending you this my last message, I wish I could say all that is in my heart. I cannot hope to surpass the simple eloquence of the Prime Ministers words, 'Never before has so much been owed by so many to so few.' The debt remains and will increase. In saying good-bye to you I want you to know how continually you have been in my thoughts...Good-bye to you and God bless you all...." Framed with a WWII period photo of Dowding. Provenance: From the collection of the late Malcolm Smith, the long-time assistant secretary to the Battle of Britain Association; The War Museum.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipments are sent via USPS Priority, USPS International Priority, DHL (for most overseas shipments) or FedEx Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature is always required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling and shipping charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. International shipments are invoiced by DIMENSIONAL weight, not the item weight. Please contact us for an estimate before bidding NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items may not be shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee. Please allow 14 - 21 days for shipments to arrive after receipt of payment due to the high volume of package being shipped.

March 17, 2016 10:30 AM EDT
Chesapeake City, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 26.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$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 + $10,000