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Franklin D. Roosevelt. Typed letter signed ("Franklin D. Roosevelt") as President....
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Description
Franklin D. Roosevelt. Typed letter signed ("Franklin D. Roosevelt") as President. 1 page, (7 x 8.75 inches), The White House, February 10, 1944, to Hon. John E. Fogarty. On White House bifolium stationery with original transmittal envelope. Paperclip indentation, minor soiling.President Roosevelt politely informs a Congressman that he is not permitted to also serve in the armed forces.
"Your desire to serve your country under arms is understandable and appreciated - and does you honor."
Roosevelt writes, in part:
"The Secretaries of War and Navy have been instructed that duly elected Members of Congress, as such, may not serve in the active components of the armed services. Your desire to serve your country under arms is understandable and appreciated - and does you honor. However, I am advised by the Attorney General that the Constitution of the United States forbids you from serving both in the armed forces and in the Congress at the same time...
One of the greatest strengths of our democracy in the time of crisis is a strong, virile Congress to meet the problems arising from the demands of total war."
John E. Fogarty was a democratic Congressman from Rhode Island from 1941 to 1967. Fogarty, only thirty years old when Roosevelt penned this reply, served on the House Naval Affairs Sub-Committee from 1941 to 1947. The job frequently took him to the Pacific and European theaters and no doubt played a part in his desire to join active service. In December 1944, he did briefly resign to join the Seabee battalion. He spent six weeks with them in the Pacific and was so moved by the experience that he spent the remainder of his career advocating for service members and veterans.
Auction Info
2022 May 7 Treasures from the Melvin "Pete" Mark, Jr. Collection Signature® Auction #6256 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
May, 2022
7th
Saturday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 4
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