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Description

A War-time Souvenir Sent to His Adoring Cousin.

John F. Kennedy: His Very Own PT-109 Shoulder Patch. JFK's war-time exploits were a key component of his future career in politics. However, at the time, he was just one of hundreds of thousands of America boys sent to distant climes in the effort to defeat the Axis powers and safeguard democracy. In 1943, his young cousin Marylou Connelly, was sent away to the Madames of the Sacred Heart Boarding School in Providence. Marylou was the daughter of Loretta Connelly, JFK's aunt and godmother. Marylou found the adjustment to boarding school life difficult and Loretta apparently let Rose Kennedy know about it. She, in turn, mentioned it to JFK. Out of affection and concern, he sent his shoulder patch to Marylou and told her to wear it on her school uniform. He reminded her of his current location and advised her: "Mary, be brave kiddo. I'm not so thrilled about where I am either." Marylou did as he advised and found the patch helpful during the uncertain days when JFK was reported missing in action, until news came of his rescue. She cherished the patch for the next fifty years, as a poignant souvenir of her beloved cousin. This framed display includes the 2" fabric patch as the centerpiece. It also has copy-images of JFK and the crew of the PT109, JFK receiving a medal, a circa 1930 color photo of JFK and Marylou as children, a patch from the aircraft carrier U.S.S. John F. Kennedy and a signed notarized statement from Marylou Connelly McCarthy, dated 1998, discussing the patch and her relationship with and feelings for JFK. A letter of provenance from the family accompanies the lot.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
Nov-Dec, 2011
30th-1st Wednesday-Thursday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 1
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 3,472

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
19.5% of the successful bid per lot.

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Sold on Nov 30, 2011 for: $29,875.00
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