John F. Kennedy
Washington, DC, September 12, 1962
JFK Signed "We Choose To Go To The Moon" Signed Statement. Ex. Gus Grissom

Signed Typescript, measuring 8.5" x 11", dated September 12, 1962, Washington D.C., on "The White House" stationary featuring "The Address at Rice University on the Nation's Space Effort." Undoubtedly, the printing on this item was done at some point after it was signed, making it an incredibly impressive authentically signed souvenir of one of Kennedy?s most iconic speeches. The signed sheet originated from the Virgil "Gus" Grissom collection, and was presented to Grissom by Kennedy as part of the Post Offices "4-Cent Project Mercury Commemorative U.S. Postage Stamp" presentation. 50 "Project Mercury" stamps are included in the presentation. Overall, very good condition, and boldly signed. Encapsulated by PSA/DNA to an overall size of 9.5" x 13."

The "We choose to go to the Moon" speech, officially titled the Address at Rice University on the Nation's Space Effort, delivered by U.S. President John F. Kennedy on September 12, 1962, aimed to rally public support for his ambitious goal of sending a man to the Moon and ensuring his return before the end of the 1970s. Crafted mainly by Ted Sorensen, the president's advisor and speechwriter, Kennedy delivered this motivational speech to a packed Rice University Stadium in Houston, Texas. In it, Kennedy painted space exploration as the latest frontier, evoking the adventurous spirit emblematic of American culture. He imbued his message with a sense of immediacy and fate, stressing the liberty Americans have to shape their own future, rather than having it predetermined. While acknowledging the competitive race with the Soviet Union, Kennedy also suggested the possibility of a collaborative lunar mission. The speech made a lasting impact and continues to be celebrated, despite initial concerns over the lunar mission's expense and worth. Kennedy's vision was ultimately fulfilled with the landmark success of the Apollo 11 mission in July 1969, after his death.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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9.5" x 13."