Description
Slim octavo, 8pp, 7″x10″; 178 x 254 mm. Original white cloth with gilt stamped cover and spine. White cloth slipcase with gilt stamped Presidential seal on cover. Subtle toning along left edge of signature page. Signed on front endpage by President Kennedy: “For Chief Martinell, from John Kennedy, Christmas 1961.”
Comments: There are believed to be 100 copies of this unstated limited edition printing, published as gifts for friends of the administration. They were given as gifts during the Christmas of 1961. This particular book was given to Chief Petty Officer William Martinell, who was a member of the White House medical staff. Also included in this lot is a “Bermuda Meeting – December 1961” Delegates Pass for Mr. Mortinell. President Kennedy’s inaugural address in 1961 is arguably one of the most recognized political speeches of the 20th century, with the famous line: “…ask not what your country can do for you- ask what you can do for your country.”
