Stone, Robert L. (1921-2009) to Jacob Stone
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC09620.110 Author/Creator: Stone, Robert L. (1921-2009) Place Written: San Francisco, California Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 July 1944 Pagination: 1 p. : envelope ; 27.4 x 19.5 cm. Order a Copy PDF Download(s): Transcript of document
Addressed to "Dad." A birthday card for his father's 50th. He wishes he could be there to celebrate. Writes that his father is a "swell gent" and a "mighty tough" example to live up to. He only wishes that he'll be as successful as his father.
The letter is not dated. "Letters in a Box" notes the letter was written on July 4, 1944.
Robert "Bob" Stone was a Bombardier in World War II and served in the Pacific Front. These letters, were compiled by Bob's wife, Sheila M. Stone, and Ali Adair into a book named Letters in a Box. This book details Bob's service to his country, and his life after the war. Bob's letters were donated to the collection by his wife, Sheila M. Stone, in 2017. It contains a variety of letters, postcards, patches, pins, photographs, and scrapbooks that relate to Bob's training and combat missions.
[Draft Created by Crowdsourcing]
Dear Dad -
I just want to write you a few lines to wish you the happiest of birthdays and to let you know that I'm thinking of you on July 15th and only wish that all of us could be with you to help celebrate your 50th.
You're a swell gent Dad, and you make a mighty tough example for your sons to live up to. I only hope that on my 50th birthday I have as many friends and have made as great a success out of my life as you have.
This damn war sure makes it tough for all of us and particularly on special occasions. Let it suffice that I'll be with you in spirit to wish the greatest Dad a fellow ever had, a million happy returns on the 15th.
With loads of love -
Bobby
[envelope]
Lt. R. L. Stone 0-696041
AAF
APO 16280 AS (19)
? Postmaster
San Francisco, Cal.
Lt. Comdr. J. C. Stone
375 Park Avenue
New York City
N.Y.
[written on back flap of envelope]
DO NOT OPEN UNTIL JULY 15TH
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