EISENHOWER, DWIGHT D. (1890-1969). American soldier and thirty-fourth president of the United States. TLS. ('Dwight D. Eisenhower'). 2pp. 4to. Gettysburg, March 6, 1962. On his gold DDE monogrammed stationery. To Simon Palestrant. letter in Fantastic letter where he talks about the possibilities in the future, within space, and what our founders built wisely on and our Motto. ' In God We Trust".
In Full:
"The theme you have chosen for your 1962 Senior Year Book is intriguing and I am glad to add
my thoughts on the Fifth Season - or the opportunity awaiting those who will be venturing into new fields of opportunities and responsibilities.
You, the youth of today, are indeed privileged to be living in what promises to be the most interesting and magnificent era in the history of man. You are entering your life career at a time when we are on the brink of vast new fields of exploration and achievement in space. This alone is a challenge beyond our present comprehension, try as we will to visualize it.
But the opportunities are not alone in that area- they are all around - in scientific development,
expanded world interests and service, in agriculture, medicine and many fields that will be
revolutionized as science brings new methods, new materials, new outlooks to our every-day lives.
But these discoveries and changes will not benefit mankind if they lessen the underlying principles and spiritual values which have inspired and sustained greatness in nations throughout all generations. Our founders built wisely and well on the motto In God We Trust.' If you and future generations are to enjoy the freedoms our country now has, it will be your responsibility to protect and preserve them and to be ever alert to those things which would destroy them.
As you leave your high school days behind, my wish for you is that you will do so in the confidence that 'opportunity unlimited' awaits you, while resolving to hold fast to the faith and convictions that have made this country the world's stronghold of freedom.
Congratulations!"
Following his distinguished service in World War I and his leadership as Supreme Allied Commander in Europe from 1951-1952, Eisenhower returned to the U.S. a military hero. The Republican Party sought to parlay his popularity into a presidential bid and, in 1952, he received his party's nomination. His leadership experience in World War I and as commander of NATO's
military left him no doubt about the importance of military force. But at the same time, he used diplomacy to navigate the difficulties of the time and, through his success, earned a second term as president. He is the only 20"-century general to ascend to the nation's highest office.