WILLIAM J. DONOVAN (1883-1959) 'Wild Bill', American brigadier general chosen by Roosevelt to head the O.S.S. (precursor to the C.I.A.). Donovan planted over 16,000 people behind enemy lines and developed elaborate plans to subvert Axis military operations. Set of two war-date outgoing mail logs from the vaunted U.S. 165th Regiment, originally the famous 69th New York Infantry 'Fighting Irish', commanded by Donovan. The regiment would distinguish itself at the Second Battle of the Marne, the Ourcq River during the Aisne-Marne Offensive, and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Donovan himself would be awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery in mid-October, 1918. The log books, each about 8 x 12 in. and with about 60pp. filled in, cover the period from July 19, 1917 to Feb. 11, 1919. Entries are largely routine, but some are quite fascinating. For example, on Oct. 30, 1918, a letter is sent to the Adjutant General regarding the death of soldier-poet JOYCE KILMER, killed in action three months earlier while escorting Donovan on a reconnaissance mission. Other entries concern the mustering-in of the regiment on July 25, 1917, their departure for France, multiple lists of deserters, recommendations for citations, mailing of KIA soldiers' personal effects, petitions for naturalization by foreigners who served the U.S., dozens of entries reporting on pay, reports submitted, service reports, officers sworn in, pay rolls, etc., etc., with hundreds of names mentioned. Covers worn, else overall very good. These books, along with maps and documents, were contained within two of Donovan's footlockers purchased by our consignor and offered elsewhere in this sale.