CHESTER W. NIMITZ
(1885 - 1966) American admiral, Commander in Chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet during World War II and largely responsible for the successful "island-hopping" campaign against the Japanese. Historic war-date I.S.P., 11" x 14" overall, a chest, up pose of Nimitz in uniform inscribed to the commander of all Army forces in the Pacific, Lt. Gen. Robert C. Richardson, shortly after Americans had begun their invasion of New Guinea. In full: "1 May 1944 To Lieut. General Robert C. Richardson, U.S. Army - With kindest regards and deep appreciation for your loyal and efficient support in prosecuting the war against Japan in the Pacific Ocean Areas. C. W. Nimitz, Admiral U.S. Navy". A 1" tear at lower-left corner and a few tiny spots, else very good. While official command of all Army forces in the Pacific rested with Richardson, combat control of those forces devolved upon Nimitz. At Saipan, Marine general Holland M. Smith would receive Nimitz's approval to sack Army general Ralph Smith. The result was an Army investigation headed by Richardson and a national uproar. Angered, Nimitz refused to invite Richardson and almost every other Army general to the surrender services on the MISSOURI.