This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/9/2021
Octavo, xi, [1], 75pp. Burgundy cloth, gilt title on spine, gilt title over black cloth box on cover, light wear to bottom edge of spine and slight bump in top right corner. Light discoloration to end papers from publishers, front page with inscription and signature does have a diagonal fold only affecting one letter in signature.. One of a limited printing of 360 copies, with red wings on title page to distinguish edition. Housed in custom made clamshell case, two piece set, in fine condition. This book is signed by John Kennedy on front end paper, with the following inscription: "For Bill who flew with Joe, from Jack f. Kennedy," The first edition, first issue of this book is distinguished by the red wings in the center of the title page. The second issue of this book, privately printed by Robert Kennedy in 1965 as a Christmas Gift for family and friends, has the title page printed in all black. Only 250 copies of this second edition were believed to have been printed. This book was edited by John Kennedy as a tribute to his brother, Joe Kennedy, who was killed in action during World War II, while serving as a bomber pilot. An incredible example of this scarce work by President John. F. Kennedy
This incredible book was signed by the president for a pilot William F. Holzapfel, Jr., who flew with Joe and in a letter included with the book recounts their missions together and when and how John Kennedy signed the book for him.
Joe Kennedy (A. N. S. Naval Pilot) was based in Dunkswell, England in 1943-1944 as a pilot of a 4 engine "Liberator' (B-24) bomber attached to Squadron V.P.B. 110, under Fleet Air Wing Seven.
I was a (H. S. Naval Aerial Gunner) based in Dunkswell, England in 1943-1944 flying missions as a Combat Aerial Gunner in a 4 engine "Liberator' (B. 24) bomber attached to Squadron V.P.B. 103, under Fleet Air Wing Seven.
I knew Joe well. He was a good officer and friend.
Three bombing squadrons of approximately 15 aircraft a piece comprised the Wing. Bombing Squadrons 103, 105 and 110
Jack Kennedy ( the late president) had heard of me after the war when he was campaigning for Congress. He invited me to his rooms at the Hotel Belleview in Boston to meet me. I went gladly, bringing with me photos of our place overseas, (Dunkswell) plus aerial photos of our Wing and Sections of it in formation, etc. He accepted these with tears in his eyes and presented me with the book "As We Remember Joe". An odd event occurred then: he was so upset about me bringing the pictures, he first autographed the book on the "back cover" then realizing his error he erased this and then on the front cover inscribed "to Bill who flew with Joe", Jack Kennedy.
So you see Mr. Patterson there are actually two signatures on the book, one on the back cover (partially) erased, and the one on the front.
It hurts me deeply Mr. Patterson to part with this memento, of not one but two great men. However, financial conditions at home compel me to do so.
Very truly yours
(signed) William F. Holzapfel, Jr.
17 Easton St.
Allston, Mass.
With One of a Kind Collectibles LOA.