1102A

MARK CLARK T.L.S.

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MARK CLARK T.L.S.
<b>1102A MARK CLARK </b>(1896 - 1984) American Army General, commanded the landings at Salerno and Anzio against the forces of Kesselring. Fine content T.L.S. "<i>Mark W. Clark</i>" on Citadel letterhead, 1p. 4to., Charleston, S.C., June 15, 1976 to a Brooklyn man responding to his question "<i>...with regards [to] the use of the atomic bomb in Japan in World War II..</i>." Mark explains in most part: <i>"...At the time the bomb was dropped at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, I was fighting in Italy, so that I was not aware that the atomic weapon was about to be used. However, in view of the military situation all over the world and particularly in the Pacific, I heartily agree with President Truman's decision to use the atomic weapon at that time. The United States, having successfully competed the war in Europe, it was essential that the war in the Pacific be brought to a successful conclusion, which meant the invasion of the mainland, the capture of Tokyo, and the complete destruction of the Japanese government , which had so treacherously started the war at Pearl Harbor. In order to have invaded the Japanese Islands, it would have required hundreds of thousands of American soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen, with heavy loss of life. By the use of the weapons, we saved those lives and brought the war to an abrupt end. In my opinion, the weapons should have been used. Ever since then, the Japanese have been a staunch ally of the United States..."</i> One very light and tiny soiled spot barely affecting text, usual folds, otherwise fine condition. Matted with a photo of Clark. <b>$200-300</b>