Title:
Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz ALS Discussing the USS Arizona and Sending Signed Photographs – January 22, 1957 – PSA Letter of Authenticity #AR05362

Description:
A warm and historically meaningful Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) by Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, penned on his personalized Berkeley, California stationery and dated January 22, 1957. Written entirely in Nimitz's hand and signed "C. W. Nimitz" with his rank, "Fleet Admiral, U.S. Navy," the letter was sent to a young correspondent named Linda and references one of the most enduring symbols of the Second World War—the USS Arizona.

The letter reads in full:

Dear Linda:-

Enclosed is an autographed photograph for you—and also one for your Daddy—who was a shipmate on the Arizona.

Best wishes to you in your school work and in your Scouting.

Sincerely-
C. W. Nimitz
Fleet Admiral, U.S. Navy

The single-page handwritten letter remains in very good condition, exhibiting expected mailing folds and light age toning. Visible residue marks from prior mounting do not detract from the outstanding legibility of the manuscript or signature.

Historical Context:
Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz (1885–1966) commanded the United States Pacific Fleet during World War II and directed many of the conflict's most decisive naval victories, including the Battles of Midway, the Philippine Sea, and Leyte Gulf. As Commander in Chief, Pacific Ocean Areas, Nimitz became one of the principal architects of the Allied victory against Imperial Japan.

This personal letter carries special historical significance through its direct reference to the USS Arizona, the battleship destroyed during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Nimitz thoughtfully notes that the recipient's father had been a shipmate aboard the Arizona, acknowledging a deeply personal connection to one of America's most hallowed naval vessels. His gesture of sending separate autographed photographs to both the daughter and her father reflects the enduring respect he maintained for the sailors who served during the war and the families connected to their sacrifice.

Written more than a decade after World War II, this letter illustrates Nimitz's gracious willingness to correspond with admirers and veterans' families while preserving the memory of Pearl Harbor and those who served.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
The handwritten letter has been fully authenticated by PSA Authentication.

• PSA Letter of Authenticity Certification Number: AR05362
• One-page handwritten Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) on Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz's personalized stationery.
• Signed "C. W. Nimitz" and inscribed with his rank, "Fleet Admiral, U.S. Navy."
• Accompanied by the original PSA Letter of Authenticity with matching certification number and reference image.
• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer's request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional "Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate" signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
Personally handwritten letters by Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz are highly sought after, particularly those containing meaningful references to the Pacific War. This exceptional ALS stands apart through its heartfelt mention of a sailor who served aboard the USS Arizona, one of the most revered names in American naval history. Combining Nimitz's warm personal correspondence, his association with Pearl Harbor, and full PSA authentication, this is a remarkable artifact honoring both one of America's greatest military leaders and the enduring legacy of those who served in the Pacific.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.